H.Koenig KOL7812 User manual

Instruction manual
Manuel d'utilisation
Gebruachsanweisung
Gebruiksaanwijzing
Manual de Usuario
Manuale d’uso
KOL7812
PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER
CLIMATISEUR MOBILE
MOBILE KLIMAANLAGE
DRAAGBARE AIRCONDITIONER
AIRE ACONDICIONADO PORTATIL
CONDIZIONATORE PORTATILE

ENGLISH SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Thank you very much for selecting this new model of Portable Air Conditioner, please read this
Use and Care Manual carefully before installing and using this appliance. Please keep this Use
and Care Manual properly for future reference.
The refrigerant used in portable air conditioner is the environmentally friendly hydrocarbon
R290.This refrigerant is odorless, and compared to the alternative refrigerant, the R290 is an
ozone-free refrigerant.
Please read the instructions before use and repair.
The drawings provided in this manual may not be the same as the physical objects. Please
refer to the physical objects.
WARNING
lDo not use means to accelerate the defrosting process
or to clean, other than those recommended by the
manufacturer.
lThe appliance shall be stored in a room without
continuously operating ignition sources (for example:
open flames, an operating gas appliance or an operating
electric heater.)
lDo not pierce or burn.
lBe aware that refrigerants may not contain an odour.
lAppliance shall be installed, operated and stored in a
room with a floor area larger than12.5 m2.
lKeep any required ventilation openings clear of
obstruction.
lServicing shall be performed only as recommended by
the manufacturer.
lThe appliance shall be stored in a well-ventilated area
where the room size corresponds to the room area as
specified for operation.
lAny person who is involved with working on or breaking
into a refrigerant circuit should hold a current valid
certificate from an industry-accredited assessment
authority, which authorises their competence to handle
refrigerants safely in accordance with an industry

recognised assessment specification.
lServicing shall only be performed as recommended by
the equipment manufacturer. Maintenance and repair
requiring the assistance of other skilled personnel shall
be carried out under the supervision of the person
competent in the use of flammable refrigerants.
lAll working procedure that affects safety means shall
only be carried by competent persons.
lBe careful not to bump when moving to avoid leakage in
the refrigeration line.
Flammable material. Refer operators Read technical Read operators
manual manual manual
This appliance contains R290/Propane a flammable refrigerant
The maximum dosage of refrigerant is 260g.
NOTES:
lThe air conditioning is only suitable for indoor use, and is
not suitable for other applications.
lFollow local grid interconnection rules while installing the
air conditioning and ensure that it is properly grounded. If
you have any question on electrical installation, follow the
instructions of the manufacturer, and if necessary, ask a
professional electrician to install it.
lPlace the machine in a flat and dry place and keep a
distance of above 50cm between the machine and the
surrounding objects or walls.
lAfter the air conditioning is installed, ensure that the
power plug is intact and firmly plugged into the power
outlet, and place the power cord orderly to prevent

someone from being tripped or pulling out the plug.
lDo not put any object into the air inlet and outlet of the air
conditioning. Keep the air inlet and outlet free from
obstructions.
lWhen drainage pipes are installed, ensure that the
drainage pipes are properly connected, and are not
distorted or bended.
lWhile adjusting the upper and lower wind-guide strips of
the air outlet, pluck it with hands gently to avoid damaging
wind-guide strips.
lWhen moving the machine, make sure that it is in an
upright position.
lThe machine should stay away from gasoline, flammable
gas, stoves and other heat sources.
lDon't disassemble, overhaul and modify the machine
arbitrarily, otherwise it will cause a machine malfunction
or even bring harm to persons and properties. To avoid
danger, if a machine failure occurs, ask the manufacturer
or professionals to repair it.
lDo not install and use the air conditioning in the bathroom
or other humid environments.
lDo not pull the plug to turn off the machine.
lDo not place cups or other objects on the body to prevent
water or other liquids from spilling into the air
conditioning.
lDo not use insecticide sprays or other flammable
substances near the air conditioning.
lDo not wipe or wash the air conditioning with chemical
solvents such as gasoline and alcohol. When you need to
clean the air conditioning, you must disconnect the power
supply, and clean it with a half-wet soft cloth. If the
machine is really dirty, scrub with a mild detergent.
lThis device is not intended for use by persons with

reduced capacity on the physical, mental or sensory or
lack of experience and knowledge (including children),
unless they have had instructions to use the appliance by
a person responsible for their safety use of the appliance
and understand the hazards involved. Children should be
supervised to ensure they do not play with the device.
lDo not operate this appliance if it has a damaged cord or
plug, if it is not working properly or if it has been damaged
or dropped. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be
replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent or a
similarly qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.
lThe appliance shall be installed in accordance with
national wiring regulations.
lThe device must not be used if it has been dropped, it
obvious signs of damage are visible or if it has leaks.
lThis appliance may be used by children of at least 8 years
of age, as long as they are supervised and have been
given instructions about using the appliance safely and
are fully aware of the dangers involved.
lCleaning and maintenance should not be carried out by
children unless they are at least 8 years of age and are
supervised by an adult.
lKeep the appliance and its power cord out of reach of
children under 8 years of age.
lWhen using electrical equipment, safety precautions must
always be taken to prevent the risk of fire, electric shock
and/or injury in the event of misuse.
lMake sure that the voltage rating on the typeplate
corresponds to your main voltage of your installation. If
this is not the case, contact the dealer and do not connect
the unit

lNever leave the unit unattended while in operation.
lPlease keep this document at hand and give it to the
future owner in case of transfer of your device
lThe device must not be used if it has been dropped, it
obvious signs of damage are visible or if it has leaks.
TRANSPORTATION, MARKING AND STORAGE FOR UNITS
1. Transport of equipment containing flammable refrigerants
Compliance with the transport regulations
2. Marking of equipment using signs
Compliance with local regulations
3. Disposal of equipment using flammable refrigerants
Compliance with national regulations
4. Storage of equipment/appliances
The storage of equipment should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Storage of packed (unsold) equipment
Storage package protection should be constructed such that mechanical damage to the
equipment inside the package will not cause a leak of the refrigerant charge.
The maximum number of pieces of equipment permitted to be stored together will be determined
by local regulations.
The appliance shall be stored so as to prevent mechanical damage from occurring
Remark:
The best operating ambient temperature for cooling is 17-35 ° C, and the optimum ambient
temperature for heating is 8-25 ° C.
Fuse Parameter: φ5.0x20mm 3.15A,250Vac.
Appliance is filled with flammable gas R290, and the maximum charge of refrigerant is 260g.
GWP value of R290refrigerant is 3.
Any repairs you need, contact the nearest authorized Service Centre and strictly follow
manufacturer’s instruction only.

FEATURES AND IDENTIFICATION OF PARTS
1. Features
lNew appearance with compact design, more luxury and upscale.
lOutlet louver swing automatically and wind direction up to consumer needs.
lBeautiful and simple appearance, humanized design for remote control storage, which can be
placed in storage bracket at the back of the unit body.
lSimple operation, LED digital display control panel and high-end LCD remote control.
lWinding pillar and universal socket can protect power cord better.
l24-hour Timer function, unique on/off reminding music.
l3-minute re-start delay protection to compressor and other multiple protection functions.
lUnique exhaust hose and fasteners, convenient installation.
2. Identification of Parts
1. Control panel
2. Horizontal louver
3. Remote control receiving window
4. Toppanel
5. Front shell
6. Universal wheels
7. Handle
8. Back shell
9. Winding pillar
10. Chassis
11. Upper filter assembly
12. Drain cover and stopper
13. Lower filter assembly
14. Remote control
15. Round connector and exhaust hose
16. Adapter of exhaust hose
17. Window kits

OPERATIONS AND SETTINGS
1. Control Panel
This section explains proper mobile air conditioner operation.
2. Control Panel Operation
A. Power button: Press the power button, the power indicator lights up in green; when the power
is on, press the power button, the power indicator light is off (or red).
B. Mode button: Touch this key to switch and select unit working mode you want, all modes turn
as COOL – DEHUM – FAN – HEAT, the indicator will light up accordingly.
C. Fan button: Press this button to change fan speed to High, Medium or Low.
D. Up button: Press the up key to adjust the set temperature or timing up.
E. Down button: Press the down key to adjust the set temperature or timing up.
F. Timer button: Press the timer button to set the timing, query timing, and cancel the timing.
G. "Up" + "Down" button: Press this group of composite keys at the same time to switch the display
temperature (Fahrenheit / Celsius).
H. "Timer" + "Up" button: Press this group of composite keys at the same time to select sleep
mode.
I. “Timer” + “Fan” button: Press this group of composite buttons at the same time to turn the
swing function on or off.
3. Remote Control Operation
Up and down button
Fan speed button
Timer button
Sleep button
LCD display window
Power button
Mode button
Auto-swing button

1) Power: Press this button to start the unit when it is energized or stop the unit when it is in
operation.
2) Mode: Press this button to select operation mode.
3) : Press this button to increase room temperature and timer setting.
4) : Press this button to decrease room temperature and timer setting.
5) Fan: Press this button to select fan speed in sequence: Low →Medium →High.
6) Auto-Swing: Press this button to turn on or turn off auto-swing function.
7) Sleep: Press this button to select or cancel sleep mode (only effective under coolingoperation or
energy conversation modes).
8) Timer: press this button to set AUTO-ON and AUTO-OFF time. Time can be adjusted between
0.5-24 hours. It jumps by 0.5 hour interval within 5 hours, and 1 hour interval over 5 hours, set
time will flash 5 times on screen then confirm the setting.
Before using your remote, install the AAA batteries into remote control.
1) Press and glide the battery cover on the back of the remote control, then you can remove the
cover.
2) Insert two new alkaline AAA batteries into the battery compartment, being sure to note the proper
polarity.
Reattach the battery cover, making sure the locking tab clicks into place.
Notes:
lUse alkaline batteries only. Do not use rechargeable batteries.
lWhen replace batteries, always replace both batteries with new batteries, do not mix old and
new batteries.
lIf the air conditioner will not be used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries from
the remote control.
4. Remote Control Storage
1) Insert remote controller into built-in compartment in left side of unit, and push it gently for
closure.
2) Press the lower part of built-in compartment gently to open it and take out remote controller.
Note: In order to avoid losing the remote control, please put the remote control inside of the
storage place when you not use it.
Be sure to note proper
polarity of batteries

WARNING
If the liquid from the batteries gets onto your skin or
clothes, wash it well with clean water, do not use the
remote control if the batteries have any leakage.
If you eat the liquid from the batteries, brush your teeth
and see doctor. The chemicals in batteries could cause
burns or other health hazards.
HANDLING AND TRANSPORTATION
1. Handle and move the unit
1) Hold handles on side panels to move the unit in upright position.
Note:
l Make the unit in the upright position whatever handling or moving it.
l Drain the water in the unit completely to prevent water leakage and wet the floor or carpet before
handling or moving the unit.
l Take out the remote control from the storage area and keep it.
Remote control
storage area

INSTALLATION & ADJUSTMENT
1. Installation
Notes:
lKeep this mobile air-conditioner in upright position at least 2 hours before first installation.
lThis air-conditioner may be moved indoor conveniently; keep the unit in upright position while
moving it. The air-conditioner shall be placed at flat surface.
lDo not install or operate this air-conditioner in bathroom or other wet environments.
1) Installation of exhaust hose assembly and its adapter.
A. Take out the exhaust hose and its connector and adapter, to remove the plastic bag.
B. Extend one end of exhaust hose, screw the end without slot of round connector onto it with
anticlockwise direction at least 3 laps.
C. Extend another end of exhaust hose, screw the adapter onto it with anticlockwise direction at
least 3 laps.
Note: Screw round connector and adapter into right position, at least 3 laps, to keep good
connection of exhaust hose assembly.
2) Installation of window seal-plate
A. Make the window half open, put the seal-plate into window, either in vertical or horizontal
position.
B. Extend seal plate parts and adjust it to the length of window, keep both ends to meet window
edge, fix it with screws then.
Note:
lKeep two ends of window seal-plate to meet the window edges well, to assure seal effect.
lTurn the screw in good position.
3) Installation of the unit
A. Move the unit with the exhaust hose assembly installed in front of window and keep the unit at

least 50cm away from the walls or other objects.
B. Install the rectangle end of exhaust hose assembly into the corresponding rectangle hole in
window seal-plate assembly, fix it with screw and close the window.
Note:
l Slide the adapter downwards and assure adapter installed in good position.
l Assure the slant panel direction to match seal-plate direction.
l Exhaust hose cannot be bent or with flexure higher than 45°, in order to keep good ventilation of
exhaust hose.
Important notes:
The exhaust hose is 280mm-1500mm long and this length is determined based on the
specification of the air-conditioner (s). Do not use prolonged the hose or replace it with other
different hoses as this may affect the functions of the air-conditioner. The exhaust hose must
be smooth or it may lead air-conditioner overheat and damage.

DRAINAGE INSTRUCTION
1. Manual drainage:
1) Once the unit shuts down upon water-full, turn off the unit and then unplug.
2) Put the tray below the water outlet at the back of the unit.
3) Screw off the drain cover, unplug the water stopper for water flow into the tray.
4) Plug in stopper and screw the drain cover tightly onto water outlet after drainage.
Notes:
lProtect the drain cover and water stopper properly.
lMove the unit carefully to avoid the leakage it is necessary.
lTilt the unit slightly backwards when draining.
lBlock the drain hole as soon as possible before the tray is full if it cannot hold all water in the
unit to prevent the water leakage and wet the floor or carpet.
lWater stopper and drain cover must be tightly installed, to avoid new condensate to wet the floor
or carpet when the unit re-starts working.
2. Continuous drainage
1) Screw off the drain-cover & unplug the water stopper.
2) Connect drain-hole with φ13mm drain hose, as deep as possible to avoid leakage.
3) Pull the drain hose to bathroom or outdoor.
Notes:
lDrain hose must be installed when there’s no water in the tray.
lIt is suggested that not to use continuous drainage when unit is in COOL mode, to ensure enough
water recycle in the unit to enhance the system cooling effects.
lPut the drain hose in an inaccessible place, not higher than drainage hole and keep drain hose
straight without any flexure.
lKeep the drain cover and its stopper properly when continuous drainage is adopted.
lDrain pipe needs to be purchased separately
Drain Cover

MULTIPLE PROTECTION FUNCTIONS
1. Anti-frozen protection function
Under COOL mode, when the compressor continuously runs over 10 minutes, if tube
temperature is ≦2℃/36℉for 20 seconds, the anti-frozen protection function will be on, E4 will
be shown on LCD display, compressor and water wheel motor will stop working, but upper fan
remains running; If tube temperature≧8℃/46℉, the unit will stop anti-frozen protection and
recover to the original working condition. Compressor will re-start working with 3 minutes delay
for protection.
2. Water-full safety alarm and shut –off protection function
When the water volume exceeds its alarm level in chassis, warning sounds automatically and
water-full icon is lighting in LCD display, you need to drain the condensate and re-start the
unit.(For more information about how to drain, refer to the “Drainage Instruction” please). If the
unit is not shut down manually, the unit will recover to the original operating status automatically
once the water is fully drained. Or connect the power to re-start the unit again.
3. Delay protection function of compressor
This unit offers restart protection to compressor. Except that the compressor may start
immediately when the unit is energized first time, there is 3-minute delay re-start protection after
compressor is shut down.
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Note: Be sure to turn off the unit and pull out the plug
before maintain or send to service center.
1. Surface cleaning
1) Clean the unit surface with wet soft cloth and do not use
chemical solvents such as alcohol and gasoline to avoid
any damage to unit.
2) Clean the dirty air outlet or louvers with wet soft cloth and
detergent.
3) Any chemical solvent is prohibited to use for unit cleaning
or put such things near the unit for a long time.
4) Any thinner, alcohol-glazer or other similar solvents is
prohibited for unit cleaning.
2. Filter cleaning
Clean the filter once every two weeks, or it would
influence the unit function if filter clogged with dust.
1) How to clean filter
A. Grip the filter handle and pull it out gently in correct
direction.

B. Clean the dirty particles in filter by cleaner if it is
necessary.
C. Immerse and wash the filter gently into warm water (about
40℃) mixed with neutral cleaner, and then rinse and dry
them thoroughly in the shade.
Notes:
l Pull out the filter gently.
l Removal of filter at back panel is at priority then for the
filter at side panel, to avoid any twist or damage to filter.
l Do not squash the mesh.
l Do not hit the mesh with sharp objects or brush.
3. Installation of the filter
Aim the end of the filter toward slot then push filter
gently into slot.
Notes:
l Be sure to install the filter to side panel then for the filter
to back panel.
l Install the filter with opposite direction of removal.
l Install the filter into place gently to avoid any damage to
filter.
4. End of Season Storage
1) Screw off the drain cover and pull out the stopper to drain
condensate water completely. (Note: the tilt angle of the

unit must be≦30).
2) Keep unit running in fan mode for half day to dry inside of
unit completely to prevent from going moldy.
3) Turn off the unit, pull out plug then wrap the power cord
around the wire-winding pillar, insert the plug into the
universal fixing hole at the back panel of the unit, install
the water stopper and drain cover.
4) Remove the heat exhaust hose assembly, clean and keep
it properly.
Notes:
l Hold the exhaust hose assembly with both hands when
removal.
l Push the fasteners aside on exhaust air outlet using your
thumbs, then pull out exhaust hose assembly.
5) Pack the air-conditioner properly with soft plastic bag and
put it in dry place with appropriate dust-proof measures,
and keep the unit away from children.
6) Take out the batteries from the remote control and keep it
properly.
Note:
Assure the unit is stored in a dry place. All accessories of
the unit shall be protected together properly.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Please check the unit and suggestions below before asking for professional service, but never
dismantle or repair the unit by yourself, it may cause harm to you and your property.
If problems not listed in the table occur or recommended solutions do not work, please contact
the professional service organization.
Trouble
Cause
Remedy
The unit fails to
start up
Power supply failure
Connect the unit to a live socket
and turn it on.
Water-full and its icon lighting
Drain the water stored in the unit.
Ambient temperature too low
or low high
It is recommended to use this unit
between 8-35℃
The room temperature is
lower than the set
temperature in cooling mode
or higher temperature in
heating mode
Change the set temperature
Bad cooling
effects
There is direct sunlight
Close the window curtain
The doors and windows are
open, the room is crowded or
there are other heat sources
Close the door and window, remove
other heat sources, and add new
air-conditioners
Dirty filter
Clean or replace the filter mesh
Air inlet or air outlet clogged
Remove the obstruction
High noise level
The unit is being placed at
uneven surface.
Put the unit at a flat and firm place
(may reduce noise)
The compressor
does not work
Initiation of overheat
protection.
Wait until the temperature decrease,
the unit will re-start automatically
The remote
control does not
work
Too long distance
Bring the remote control close to
the air-conditioner and ensure airs
at signal receptor on unit.
The remote control didn’t aim
at signal receptor on unit.
The batteries have no
electricity
Replace the batteries
“E1” code
displays
Tube temperature sensor
failure
Check the tube temperature sensor
and related circuits
“E2” code
displays
Room temperature sensor
failure
Check the room temperature sensor
and related circuits
“E4” code
displays
Anti-freeze protection
Restore the functions automatically
once anti-freeze protection is over.
FL Displays
Water tank in chassis is full
Drain the condensate and re-start
the unit
1. Information on servicing
1) Checks to the area
Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are
necessary to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimized. For repair to the refrigerating system,
the following precautions shall be complied with prior to conducting work on the system.
2) Work procedure
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimize the risk of a flammable
gas or vapor being present while the work is being performed.

3) General work area
All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature of
work being carried out. Work in confined spaces shall be avoided. The area around the
workspace shall be sectioned off. Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made
safe by control of flammable material.
4) Checking for presence of refrigerant
The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work, to
ensure the technician is aware of potentially flammable atmospheres. Ensure that the leak
detection equipment being used is suitable for use with flammable refrigerants, i.e. non-sparking,
adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
5) Presence of fire extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts,
appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2
fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
6) No ignition sources
No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing any
pipe work that contains or has contained flammable refrigerant shall use any sources of ignition
in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of fire or explosion. All possible ignition sources,
including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of installation,
repairing, removing and disposal, during which flammable refrigerant can possibly be released
to the surrounding space. Prior to work taking place, the area around the equipment is to be
surveyed to make sure that there are no flammable hazards or ignition risks. “No Smoking” signs
shall be displayed.
7) Ventilated area
Ensure that the area is in the open or that it is adequately ventilated before breaking into the
system or conducting any hot work. A degree of ventilation shall continue during the period that
the work is carried out. The ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant and
preferably expel it externally into the atmosphere.
8) Checks to the refrigeration equipment
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the purpose and to the
correct specification. At all times the manufacturer’s maintenance and service guidelines shall
be followed. If in doubt consult the manufacturer’s technical department for assistance.
The following checks shall be applied to installations using flammable refrigerants:
a. The charge size is in accordance with the room size within which the refrigerant containing parts
are installed.
b. The ventilation machinery and outlets are operating adequately and are not obstructed.
c. If an indirect refrigerating circuit is being used, the secondary circuit shall be checked for the
presence of refrigerant.
d. Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that are illegible
shall be corrected.
e. Refrigeration pipe or components are installed in a position where they are unlikely to be exposed
to any substance which may corrode refrigerant containing components, unless the components
are constructed of materials which are inherently resistant to being corroded or are suitably
protected against being so corroded.
9) Checks to electrical devices
Repair and maintenance to electrical components shall include initial safety checks and

component inspection procedures. If a fault exists that could compromise safety, then no
electrical supply shall be connected to the circuit until it is satisfactorily dealt with. If the fault
cannot be corrected immediately but it is necessary to continue operation, an adequate
temporary solution shall be used. This shall be reported to the owner of the equipment so all
parties are advised.
Initial safety checks shall include:
a. That capacitors are discharged: this shall be done in a safe manner to avoid possibility of
sparking.
b. That there no live electrical components and wiring are exposed while charging, recovering or
purging the system.
c. That there is continuity of earth bonding.
2. Repairs to sealed components
1) During repairs to sealed components, all electrical supplies shall be disconnected from the
equipment being worked upon prior to any removal of sealed covers, etc. If it is absolutely
necessary to have an electrical supply to equipment during servicing, then a permanently
operating form of leak detection shall be located at the most critical point to warn of a
potentially hazardous situation.
2) Particular attention shall be paid to the following to ensure that by working on electrical
components, the casing is not altered in such a way that the level of protection is affected. This
shall include damage to cables, excessive number of connections, terminals not made to
original specification, damage to seals, incorrect fitting of glands, etc. Ensure that apparatus is
mounted securely. Ensure that seals or sealing materials have not degraded such that they no
longer serve the purpose of preventing the ingress of flammable atmospheres.
Replacement parts shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
NOTE: The use of silicon sealant may inhibit the effectiveness of some types of leak detection
equipment. Intrinsically safe components do not have to be isolated prior to working on them.
3. Repair to intrinsically safe components
Do not apply any permanent inductive or capacitance loads to the circuit without ensuring that
this will not exceed the permissible voltage and current permitted for the equipment in use.
Intrinsically safe components are the only types that can be worked on while live in the
presence of a flammable atmosphere. The test apparatus shall be at the correct rating.
Replace components only with parts specified by the manufacturer. Other parts may result in
the ignition of refrigerant in the atmosphere from a leak.
4. Cabling
Check that cabling will not be subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure, vibration, sharp
edges or any other adverse environmental effects. The check shall also take into account the
effects of aging or continual vibration from sources such as compressors or fans.
5. Detection of flammable refrigerants
Under no circumstances shall potential sources of ignition be used in the searching for or
detection of refrigerant leaks. A halide torch (or any other detector using a naked flame) shall
not be used.

6. Leak detection methods
The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for systems containing
flammable refrigerants.
Electronic leak detectors shall be used to detect flammable refrigerants, but the sensitivity may
not be adequate, or may need re-calibration. (Detection equipment shall be calibrated in a
refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the detector is not a potential source of ignition and is
suitable for the refrigerant used. Leak detection equipment shall be set at a percentage of the
LFL of the refrigerant and shall be calibrated to the refrigerant employed and the appropriate
percentage of gas (25 % maximum) is confirmed.
Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants but the use of detergents
containing chlorine shall be avoided as the chlorine may react with the refrigerant and corrode
the copper pipe-work.
If a leak is suspected, all naked flames shall be removed/ extinguished.
If a leakage of refrigerant is found which requires brazing, all of the refrigerant shall be
recovered from the system, or isolated (by means of shut off valves) in a part of the system
remote from the leak. Oxygen free nitrogen (OFN) shall then be purged through the system
both before and during the brazing process.
7. Removal and evacuation
When breaking into the refrigerant circuit to make repairs – or for any other purpose –
conventional procedures shall be used. However, it is important that best practice is followed
since flammability is a consideration. The following procedure shall be adhered to:
1) Remove refrigerant.
2) Purge the circuit with inert gas.
3) Evacuate.
4) Purge again with inert gas.
5) Open the circuit by cutting or brazing.
The refrigerant charge shall be recovered into the correct recovery cylinders. The system shall
be “flushed” with OFN to render the unit safe. This process may need to be repeated several
times. Compressed air or oxygen shall not be used for this task.
Flushing shall be achieved by breaking the vacuum in the system with OFN and continuing to
fill until the working pressure is achieved, then venting to atmosphere, and finally pulling down
to a vacuum. This process shall be repeated until no refrigerant is within the system. When the
final OFN charge is used, the system shall be vented down to atmospheric pressure to enable
work to take place. This operation is absolutely vital if brazing operations on the pipe-work are
to take place. Ensure that the outlet for the vacuum pump is not close to any ignition sources
and there is ventilation available.
8. Charging procedures
In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements shall be followed.
1) Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging
equipment. Hoses or lines shall be as short as possible to minimize the amount of refrigerant
contained in them.
2) Cylinders shall be kept upright.
3) Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with refrigerant.
4) Label the system when charging is complete (if not already).
5) Extreme care shall be taken not to overfill the refrigeration system.