Abstract: A heat exchanger assembly includes an outlet header extending along an outlet axis to define an outlet cavity and an inlet header defining an inlet cavity. A plurality of refrigerant tubes extends from the inlet header through the outlet header and into the outlet cavity. A collector conduit is disposed in the outlet header and includes a conduit body portion and at least one conduit end portion interconnected by a conduit transition portion with the conduit body portion being offset from the conduit end portion. The conduit body portion is engaged to an interior surface of the outlet header to space the conduit body portion from the refrigerant tubes extending into the outlet header and the conduit end portion is coaxial with the outlet header axis to provide a central outlet for the refrigerant vapor.

Abstract: A low refrigerant charge detector is operatively connected in either the suction or discharge line of a compressor of a heat pump system, wherein the compressor is in turn connected to a reversing valve. The detector includes a pressure sensor connected in one line and transmits pressure readings to a computer. During reversal of the flow of liquid in the system by the reversing value, the time at which the pressure exceeds or drops below a predetermined value is measured. The comparison depends on if the sensor is connected in the suction line or discharge line. If the time exceeds a minimum time, a low charge of refrigerant is indicated.