AC Services – Refrigerant

Just as a battery requires electric juice to operate, the refrigerant component of an HVAC system requires literal juice refrigerant liquid and/or gas, depending on the stage of the cooling process to perform properly. When the preset refrigerant level is depleted via leaks, it must be replaced, or performance will quickly degrade. What is refrigerant charging? Refrigerant charging is the process of emptying and refilling the refrigerant component of an HVAC system. When refrigerant levels fall due to leaks or system repairs, the existing refrigerant must be drained and replaced with a new charge. A variety of tools are required to accomplish this; technicians generally either use a bulk refrigerant container or a charging kit, which contains exactly the right amount of gas/liquid for a single charge. Manifold gauge set in either case, a manifold gauge set is required to complete the process of refrigerant charging. This is one of the most important HVAC charging tools, as without it the refrigerant gases could not be transferred to the refrigerant coil. More on this webpage

A manifold gauge set is comprised of two gauges, three hoses, and two valves. Essentially, it creates an airtight channel which then forces the refrigerant gas into the appropriate part of the HVAC system in question. Without this tool, the gases would leak out or be unable to travel efficiently.

Digital thermometers

A digital thermometer is used to check the temperature of HVAC system components while the refrigerant is being charged. Readings acquired via the thermometer are used to calculate superheat and sub-cooling measurements, allowing the HVAC technician to determine exactly how much refrigerant the system requires. Pressure readings from the manifold gauge set also contribute to this reading, so both tools are required for accurate information.

Valve core remover

Valve cores are a bit like a plug, and are used to keep gases from leaking out; HVAC valve cores function similarly to bicycle and car tire manufacturing. A valve core remover is a vital part of the refrigerant charging process, as it allows these cores to be taken out so that gases can flow freely through the valve passages. Valve core removers designed for HVAC systems are usually made of brass instead of traditional steel to prevent damage to the brass access ports.

Digital scales

Digital scales allow for a more accurate weight measurement than traditional mechanical scales. The refrigerant tank is placed upon a scale during the charging process, and an HVAC technician will use the scale reading to determine how much gas has been fed into the HVAC system. As gases do not weigh very much, it is important to have a scale that detects minute changes; a good digital scale will measure changes of as little as 2 grams!

As with any technical profession, an HVAC technician’s toolkit allows him to do his job properly and well. Understanding the purpose of the tools used during refrigerant charging may help homeowners gain a better appreciation of the skills their HVAC technician possesses!