What does a dry charge refer to in regard to refrigerants?

A dry charge refers to a refrigerant system that is precharged but requires additional refrigerant during installation. This means that when the system is manufactured, it is filled with a specific amount of refrigerant sufficient for testing and to protect the components, but it does not contain enough refrigerant for operation once the system is installed and connected to the rest of the refrigeration circuit. During installation, technicians must add the appropriate amount of refrigerant according to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the system operates efficiently. This approach allows manufacturers to protect the compressor and other components from damage during transport and storage while still allowing flexibility during the final installation. This process is critical in ensuring that the system works effectively upon completion of the installation.