What would be the effect on a refrigeration system using a high-side float if the float filled with liquid refrigerant and sank?

In a refrigeration system utilizing a high-side float, the float's primary function is to regulate the level of refrigerant in the condenser. If the float fills with liquid refrigerant and subsequently sinks, it can no longer effectively control the flow of refrigerant to the evaporator. As a result, the evaporator would not receive the necessary amount of refrigerant to absorb heat properly.

When the evaporator does not have adequate refrigerant supply, it leads to a condition known as starvation. This lack of refrigerant in the evaporator compromises its ability to function effectively, meaning it can’t absorb heat from the area being cooled, ultimately affecting the overall efficiency of the refrigeration system. In severe cases, this can lead to increased temperatures in the evaporator, causing potential issues like compressor damage or inefficiency in the cooling cycle.

Thus, the correct understanding is that when the high-side float sinks due to being filled with liquid refrigerant, the immediate consequence is that the evaporator will starve for refrigerant, impacting the system's performance.