Leak Check and Evacuation) Refrigerant Leak Detectors

 

1. Importance of Leak Detection Tools

• Enhancing Senses:

  • Electronic detectors help "smell" leaks.
  • UV detectors help "see" leaks.
  • Ultrasonic detectors help "hear" leaks.

• Variety of Tools: Each has unique advantages and disadvantages. It’s beneficial to have more than one type on your truck.

2. Electronic Leak Detectors

• Function: Handheld devices with a sensor at the end of a flexible tube.
• Operation:
  • Draws air past the sensor using a small pump.
  • Chirps or beeps when refrigerant is detected.
• Usage Tips:
  • Move slowly (1-3 inches per second).
  • Different models may work on overall refrigerant concentration or changes in concentration.
  • Start in a clean air area to establish a baseline.
  • Avoid direct exposure to pure refrigerant, excessive moisture, or oils to prevent sensor damage.

3. UV (Ultraviolet) Leak Detectors

• Components: Injection tool, dye, UV lamp/flashlight.
• Operation:
  • Inject dye into the system.
  • Run the system to circulate the dye.
  • Use the UV lamp to visually inspect for leaks.
• Advantages: Allows you to see the leak.
• Disadvantages: Requires direct visual access to the leak, which might be difficult in some cases.

4. Ultrasonic Leak Detectors

• Function: Detects the sound of pressurized gas escaping through an orifice.
• Operation:
  • Uses a wand to detect the ultrasonic noise of gas leaks.
  • Sounds like air turbulence through a cell phone microphone on a windy day.
• Advantages: Can detect leaks that are not visible.
• Disadvantages: Requires proximity to the leak source.

5. Halide Torch Leak Detectors

• Function: Uses a propane torch to detect chlorinated refrigerants.
• Operation:
  • Draws air through a Venturi effect.
  • Chlorinated refrigerants change the torch flame color to green.
• Advantages: Visual confirmation of a leak.
• Disadvantages: Ineffective with non-chlorinated refrigerants, less commonly used today.

6. Bubble Solution Method

• Function: Uses soapy water to detect leaks.
• Operation:
  • Apply bubble solution around joints and connections.
  • Look for growing bubbles that indicate gas escaping from the leak.
• Advantages: Simple, reliable for pinpointing exact leak locations.
• Disadvantages: Requires pressurizing the system.