HVAC HVAC gAs leAk HAzArds
IdentIfyIng tHe CAuse Continually using an air conditioning system, even after a leak has developed, can put excessive pressure on the compressor and other components. The compressor can ultimately break and cost significantly more to replace than the cost of identifying the leak earlier on and repairing it. We have all heard the saying “prevention is
cheaper than the cure”; while this is true it is still necessary to understand how to identify a potential leak, should you not already have the technology to assist. Probably one of the most common leak
causes is corrosion. It is a factor that has plagued the HVAC industry for many years due to the exposure to fluorides and chloride in water supplies and cleaning chemicals. Another common cause is poorly connected control valves or connectors that have not been cleaned properly before joining. Similarly, poorly soldered fittings can easily lead to a refrigerant gas leak. It is also worth noting that mechanical
damage can be a cause. The refrigerant lines in your system move the gas between the evaporator and condenser. As you may expect, refrigerant lines passing through the exterior of the unit are particularly susceptible to damage, resulting in a leak.
IdentIfyIng leAks And employIng teCHnology Nothing can replace the accuracy and efficiency of using technology to identify a gas leak, however there are a few simple things to look out for if you suspect a leak.
If you
suspect your unit is not working properly check for the pungent smell of the gas. The leak may not be in the same room as the main unit so you would have to check the whole system. Also checking all pipes for stains and listening for a ‘humming’ sound coming from your thermostat pipe are other basic checks that can be done. These checks are time consuming and
fraught with human error. The person checking may not check all the pipes, they may have impaired hearing or sense of smell resulting in it not getting detected, the leak getting worse and having drastic results. Refrigerant leaks are dangerous to your
system’s function, your finances, and your health. Thankfully, modern technology can help diagnose and prompt you to repair these leaks in time. The clear benefits of detection sensor
technology are why some leading detection systems on the market have a proven return- on-investment of just two years, and that is without taking into consideration the cost of repairs to an existing faulty system. As well as leak detectors, sophisticated
refrigerant sensor equipment is available with signalling alarms, LED lights that indicate the
presence and status of each sensor and also audio/visual alarms to alert staff. As gas detection systems help
ensure that leaks are quickly identified and repaired at the first opportunity, it minimises the risk to the health and safety of employees, complies with the requirements of the F-Gas Regulations, supports the DSEAR legislation and can save businesses money. When it comes to something as dangerous
as a gas leak, and as businesses become more accountable in regards to general health, safety and environmental protection, utilising the latest detection and alert technology, from a reputable business should be at the forefront of any operations or facility manager’s mind.
stonegate Instruments
www.stonegate-instruments.com
FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS | NOVEMBER 2021 19
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