How to Properly Handle Excess Refrigerant in Chillers: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the daily operation and maintenance of industrial chillers, various issues may arise. One common problem is excessive refrigerant charge, which not only affects the efficiency of the industrial chiller but can also lead to equipment malfunctions, increased energy consumption, and higher maintenance costs. So, what should be done when it is determined that a industrial chiller has been overcharged with refrigerant? In this article, we’ll provide a detailed guide on how to handle this issue properly.

Step 1: Confirm the Excess Refrigerant

To determine if the industrial chiller has an excessive amount of refrigerant, use a pressure gauge to check the high and low pressures. Once confirmed, turn off the industrial chiller’s power to ensure safe operation and prevent any accidental restarts during the process.

Step 2: Wear Protective Equipment

Before starting, make sure to wear protective gloves, goggles, and other safety gear to avoid refrigerant contact with your skin and eyes. Additionally, inspect the surrounding area for any potential fire hazards and ensure good ventilation in the operating environment.

Step 3: Release the Excess Refrigerant

To safely release the refrigerant, specialized tools and techniques are required. For example, using recovery equipment, you can transfer the excess refrigerant into a storage container. During the refrigerant release process, it’s crucial to follow environmental regulations to avoid releasing refrigerants directly into the atmosphere, which could contribute to environmental pollution. Also, monitor system parameters such as pressure and temperature to determine when the refrigerant charge reaches the correct level. When the system pressure is within the normal operating range, it indicates that the refrigerant has been properly adjusted, and you can stop the recovery process.

Step 4: Restart the Chiller and Monitor Performance

Once the refrigerant has been properly released, restart the chiller and observe key operational parameters, such as pressure, temperature, and current. This ensures that the chiller is running smoothly. Additionally, verify that the cooling effect meets the desired performance standards. If any issues arise, shut down the chiller immediately and perform further inspections and troubleshooting.

Important Notes on Refrigerant Handling

It’s essential to note that handling and adjusting refrigerant levels should only be performed by qualified technicians to ensure safety and accuracy. During routine maintenance or repairs, always adhere to the chiller’s technical specifications and requirements for refrigerant charging to avoid overcharging or undercharging.

By following these detailed steps and precautions, you can effectively resolve the issue of excess refrigerant in water cooled chiller and air cooled chiller, allowing your equipment to return to stable and reliable operation. This ensures that your cooling system continues to provide dependable cooling support for production and daily activities.

About Hengde Company

As a leading enterprise in the industry, Hengde has been dedicated to the refrigeration equipment field for many years. We have extensive technical experience and a professional R&D and after-sales team. Hengde is committed to providing high-quality cooling solutions and comprehensive technical support to our clients worldwide. Choose Hengde, Choose Perfect Chillers!