Frequently Ask Questions

Refrigerant leak detection is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in preventing environmental harm as many refrigerants contribute to ozone layer depletion and climate change. Secondly, identifying and repairing leaks promptly ensures the efficient operation of your refrigeration systems, saving energy costs and reducing downtime. Lastly, it helps in compliance with environmental regulations, avoiding potential fines and penalties.

An aspirated refrigerant monitoring system pulls in samples for analysis from areas where leaks are most likely to occur. This type of sensor offers detection for low-level leaks, capable of Minimum Detectable Levels (MDL) as low as 1 ppm. Sample points are strategically placed near each leak-prone area of HVAC-R equipment to catch leaks as early as possible. The continuously active sample cycle, combined with the low-level detection limits offered by the infrared sensing bench, make aspirated systems highly valuable for emissions reduction through early leak detection.

As HFC supply continues to drop, it is projected that the cost of the refrigerant will go up and continue to rise over time as supply is further restricted. This projected increase in refrigerant cost makes having an aggressive leak detection strategy important to the bottom line. The higher cost means replenishing charge of HFC refrigerants from a system with a leak will become a more impactful expense to the system owner than it has been in previous years.  The earlier that the detection system can identify a leak, the higher the likelihood a leak can be stopped when minimal gas is released. In this manner, refrigerant leak detection becomes impactful for both environmental and economic reasons.

A diffusion sensor requires the gas to disperse into the air and reach a sensor for a leak to be detected. Additionally, the refrigerant gas will dilute into the greater occupied space and a leak may not be detected until the full room has reached a threshold concentration level. A diffusion system is unlikely to detect small leaks and may struggle with moderate leaks. High-level, or gross refrigerant leaks are likely to be detected, though leaks of that magnitude are considered uncommon. Diffusion-based systems typically have a MDL of around 200 PPM and are key pieces of equipment for safety of personnel in a mechanical or rack room .

The Clean Air Act is a comprehensive environmental law enacted by the United States government. Initially passed in 1963 and significantly amended in subsequent years, the Act empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate and enforce measures to control air pollution. Its primary objectives are to safeguard public health and welfare by regulating the emissions of pollutants that can harm the quality of the air we breathe. The Clean Air Act addresses a wide range of air pollutants, sets air quality standards, and establishes regulatory programs to limit emissions from various sources, such as refrigeration systems.

The Clean Air Act, specifically under Section 608, imposes important responsibilities on owners and operators of refrigeration equipment. This includes individuals and businesses using air conditioning and refrigeration systems that contain regulated refrigerants (e.g., CFCs, HCFCs, HFCs, etc.). Owners and operators must adhere to guidelines aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of these systems. Key obligations include ensuring that technicians handling refrigerants are certified, promptly repairing any leaks, and following proper practices for the recovery, recycling, and disposal of refrigerants. Compliance with these regulations is essential to contribute to air quality improvement, protect the ozone layer, and mitigate the climate impact associated with refrigeration systems.

Our advanced refrigerant leak detection equipment employs cutting-edge technology to automatically identify and pinpoint leaks in your refrigeration systems. By providing real-time alerts, our equipment enables you to take immediate corrective action, minimizing emissions and ensuring compliance with regulations. Its accuracy and sensitivity make it a reliable and cost-effective solution for businesses aiming to meet and exceed emission standards.

No, there is no retrofit option for R-410A systems with A2L refrigerants. Equipment designed for R–410A use cannot be retrofitted to use A2L refrigerants due to differences in system requirements and refrigerant properties. It’s essential to use refrigerants that are approved for the specific equipment by the manufacturer and the EPA. Retrofitting a system with a refrigerant it was not designed for can lead to safety, performance, and efficiency issues.