Leaks, Determining Using Vacuum Test With A/C Service Station

Small leaks (less than 100 g (3.5 oz) of refrigerant loss per year) are not often detected with the vacuum test or with the pressure test. The incoming air or the amount of nitrogen flowing out is too small to be able to locate the faulty location based on noise.

Leaks on the refrigerant circuit that are greater than 100 g (3.5 oz) of refrigerant loss each year are also not always detectable with the vacuum test or with the pressure test, depending on the ambient conditions (ambient noise, leak location etc.). The incoming air and the quantity of air or nitrogen flowing out is currently too small to detect any noise and locate the faulty location.

Larger leaks on the refrigerant circuit (for example an impact from a rock on the condenser, greater than 100 g (3.5 oz) of seeping refrigerant per year) can be detected for example from noise, using the vacuum test or the pressure test. Refer to REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT, EVACUATING .