Being able to understand how to detect gas or chemical leaks coupled with knowing how to use specialised leak detection tools is a critical part of any tradesperson’s job.
Refrigerant leak detectors can be used to quickly and easily identify points where refrigerants are potentially leaking into the air. This can reduce the systems efficiency, increase their power consumption and may lead to a hazard environment for people in the vicinity.
With that in mind, here are three key tips to ensure safety and efficiency using a refrigerant leak detector while on the job.
Read and understand the instructions
As is common with any professional tool, it is crucial to ensure you have read and understood all instructional material in advance of attempting to operate the device for the first time.
Even in the instance where you may already have experience with a similar refrigerant leak detector and refrigeration gauges, your new device may operate differently to the tools you are accustomed with.
Some detectors may have ports or components that become hot after prolonged use. Reading the instructions will ensure you are aware of these potential hazards.
Show care near live parts
Extreme care is important when taking leak instruments around or on live electrical components as there is the potential for serious injury to occur.
Tradespeople should never perform contact measurements on uninsulated, live ports. When in doubt, make sure to stop and check the status of the devices you are working on before proceeding.
Store your device carefully
Most modern refrigerant leak detectors are built with durability in mind. Even with this in mind, it is still important to ensure you are storing your device in a careful and considered manner.
You should never store detectors near potentially hazardous corrosive substances such as solvents or acids as these may cause damage to the device and could also cause injury.
In the event in which your device is damaged, make sure that care is taken while performing maintenance or and repair. Never attempt to use a malfunctioning instrument. Only use authorised spare parts, and if you are left with any additional doubt, do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer.
If you need any more information about refrigerant leak detectors and maintenance practice, get in contact with the team at Testo NZ today!