What is a potential consequence of a clogged filter drier in a refrigeration system?

A clogged filter drier in a refrigeration system can severely impact the system's performance by causing a myriad of issues, one of which is system icing up. When the filter drier becomes clogged, it restricts the flow of refrigerant through the system. This restriction can lead to a drop in pressure on the low side of the system. Consequently, the evaporator may not receive sufficient refrigerant, resulting in lower temperatures and causing moisture in the system to freeze. This ice buildup can further exacerbate the clogging, leading to even more severe restrictions and potentially damaging components within the refrigeration cycle.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the consequences of a clogged filter drier. For instance, increased cooling efficiency is unlikely as the efficiency would typically decrease due to impaired refrigerant flow. Excessive refrigerant flow is also a contradiction since a clog would restrict flow rather than enhance it. Lastly, reduced compressor load is not the outcome since the compressor may end up working harder to compensate for the lack of refrigerant flow, resulting in increased load rather than a reduction.