Leaks in air conditioning and refrigeration systems cost industry millions of dollars per year, and refrigerants that escape into the atmosphere are an environmental hazard. A leak detection program can prevent equipment failures and minimize refrigerant leakage, thereby saving money.

Leak detection and prevention is not only a desirable practice, in many cases it is a requirement by law. In accordance with section §608 of the Clean Air Act, the EPA promulgated regulations (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F) that require practices to reduce the emissions of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) from HVAC and refrigeration equipment. This rule regulates refrigerant emissions resulting from the normal operation of HVAC&R equipment as well as practices associated with the maintenance, servicing, repair, or disposal of this equipment. The rule requires monitoring of leak rates, record keeping, notification of excessive leak rates, and repair or elimination of HVAC&R equipment having 50 pounds or more of normal operating full refrigerant charge with an excessive leak rate.

Refrigerant leaks can occur in any part of the system. The most common areas prone to leakage are: valves, flanges and other gasketed joints, packings, fittings, pipe joints, couplings, tubing, and instrument fittings. It is important to implement a regularly scheduled program for identifying and repairing leaks in HVAC&R systems.

Refrigerant leaks can contribute to operating losses due to:

An HVAC&R leak detection and repair program can provide cost saving opportunities by identifying these leaks. A well defined leak detection program should not only identify leak sources, but should also include maintenance data, retesting results to verify repair, quantification of emissions from leaks, and in depth reporting. Emissions Monitoring Technologies, Inc. has over 10 years of experience in designing and implementing HVAC&R leak detection programs for facilities large and small. Regardless of the size or number of your systems, Emissions Monitoring Technologies, Inc. can assist you. With precision leak detection equipment, trained personnel, and proven methods, Emissions Monitoring Technologies, Inc. is ready to provide cost effective solutions your HVAC&R leak detection needs.

For more information on how Emissions Monitoring Technologies, Inc. can provide cost effective solutions to your leak detection problems, call (800) 497-4407 or email sales@emtech-us.com.