A common accessory used on many refrigeration systems is the liquid receiver. It is basically a storage vessel designed to hold excess refrigerant not in circulation. Refrigeration systems exposed to varying heat loads, or systems utilizing a condenser flooding valve to maintain a minimum head pressure during low ambient temperatures, will need a receiver to store excess refrigerant.
Liquid receivers are installed in the liquid line as close as possible to the outlet of the condenser. The piping between the condenser and the receiver should be arranged to allow free drainage. The piping should also not cause excessive friction pressure loss or gas binding and must have adequately sized valves and connection fittings.