Refrigerant Leak Checks

Tip: Refrigerant Leak Checking Process 

By Gary McCreadie

Refrigerant leaks are quite common and create plenty of work for HVAC technicians.  Lets have a look at the leak checking process step-by-step.  

1. You’ll first need to confirm if a leak is current, some leg work will probably be wanted to show this.  Connect gauges to the system, in case your gauges register zero strain, it is fairly apparent a leak is in attendance.  If the system remains to be holding a cost, some troubleshooting will probably be required to make sure that the system really has a leak and there may be not one other concern current, akin to a restriction, which may, on the floor look because the system is  low on cost.  Superheat and subcooling readings will probably be your buddy in verifying a leaky system.  

2. After you have verified {that a} leak is current, give the whole system a visible inspection, the looks of oil is a real indicator of a potential leak location.  

3.  If the system is totally empty, I’d suggest including nitrogen to the system and use a high quality leak cleaning soap akin to Viper Huge Blu and search for bubbles, begin with threaded fittings, Schrader cores, valves stems, and flares, they are usually extra vulnerable to leaks than brazed joints.  

4. If the system nonetheless has refrigerant, I like to recommend utilizing a high quality digital leak detector such because the Testo 316-3 to trace down the leak after which use cleaning soap afterwards to validate the leak location with cleaning soap bubbles.  

5.  After you have tracked down and verified the leak location, you’ll have to talk with the client and put collectively a plan of motion for restore.  

Issues to remember…As talked about above, Schrader cores generally tend to leak.  Earlier than and after attaching your gauges to the chosen service fittings, verify for leaks at every becoming, particularly afterwards.  Schrader cores can stick open unknowingly and permit refigerant to flee.  Do not be afraid to verify compressor physique welds and wiring ends of encapsulated strain switches.  Many have discovered leaks at these places and can proceed to take action.  Refrigerant dye can be another choice, some technicians steer clear of all of it collectively however it may be useful as a final resort.  Simply use warning as it may possibly create a multitude. 

Try the hyperlink to my YouTube channel for extra suggestions, methods, and troubleshooting movies and take a look at the The HVAC Know It All podcast right here or in your favorite podcast app.  Glad HVACing…

Gary McCreadie