What effects can high levels of non-condensables have in a refrigeration system?

High levels of non-condensables in a refrigeration system primarily lead to reduced heat exchange efficiency. Non-condensables, such as air or other gases that do not condense under system operating conditions, occupy space in the condenser and evaporator. This results in a decreased capacity for heat transfer because these gases do not participate in the cooling cycle. As non-condensables accumulate, they effectively reduce the effective area available for the refrigerant to absorb and release heat, which ultimately decreases the overall efficiency of the refrigeration system.

In contrast, the other responses either describe scenarios that are not typically associated with high levels of non-condensables or suggest improvements in system performance, which would not occur under these conditions. High levels of non-condensables do not stabilize temperatures, and they are unlikely to result in low humidity; in fact, they can often cause fluctuations or increases in humidity within the system.