Replace a reversing valve to avoid acid jamming it

Q I have a through-the-wall, 15,000 Btu,
265-volt Snyder General heat pump model NR15C7C. I would like to know the reason for replacing the reversing valve when there is a burned-out compressor.

What about a compressor that doesn't pump? I know that you have to flush the lines with dry nitrogen and pull a vacuum when the compressor is replaced.

A During the warranty period, the manufacturer will specify the procedures you should use to maintain that warranty. I am assuming that you have already spoken to the manufacturer's representative and this is what they required. It is extremely important to follow all recommended procedures as it could affect the warranty of the compressor if there is a repeat failure.

However, after the warranty period is over, it is more of a recommendation than a requirement that the reversing valve be replaced when a compressor fails. The obvious reason that replacement would be recommended is due to the potential for acid and other byproducts of the burnout to jam the reversing valve. However, even in the case of severe burnouts, this does not happen all the time.

The choice becomes yours as to whether it is better to change out the reversing valve while you have the system apart, or take a chance on it going bad after you have reassembled and charged the unit.

In my experience as a service technician, I had very good experiences with valves surviving after a burnout, but I let the system owner know what I was doing and had him approve it. That way, if the valve fails, I am assured that the owner knew about the potential that it might be bad and the replacement becomes a billable service call.

Question from Harry West Jr., CM, Locust Grove, Ga. Answer by Jeffrey A. Smith, CMS, J.A. Smith Heating and Air Conditioning Inc., Chalfont, Pa.