In domestic conditions and in production, cooling equipment is actively used. During its long-term operation, it may be necessary to replace freon, which is an effective refrigerant in the form of an inert gas or liquid. Substances in this category are not explosive, therefore, they can be charged into devices without professional help.
Types of refrigerants used
Before proceeding with the replacement of freon in a device, you need to familiarize yourself with the main types of substances that are currently used. Since 2004, European manufacturers have switched to refrigerants that are completely environmentally friendly. However, they are much more expensive than the more familiar counterparts.
Designation | Description |
R22 | Difluorochloromethane is a colorless gas that has a faint smell of chloroform. It is considered the most popular refrigerant. It cannot be used instead of the R22 counterpart, which is associated with a higher pressure rating. |
R134A | Tetrafluoroethane is a gas without color or a specific odor. It is not recommended to mix with R12 brand refrigerant. It is widely used in domestic refrigerators, industrial plants and automotive air conditioners. |
R410A | It is made by mixing freons of brands R125 and R32. The value of productivity in terms of cold production is almost 50 percent higher than that of the first analogue. |
R507 | The azeotropic mixture is used with polyester oils. Replacing the freon of an air conditioner, refrigerator, and other systems operating on R502 or R22 refrigerant is possible. |
Regional companies are in no hurry to switch to safer analogues for the ozone layer. The cost of a substance of the brand R22 is much lower than R410A. However, over time this will still have to be done, since the overwhelming majority of models by world manufacturers already operate on progressive refrigerants.
Preparation for refueling equipment
Before replacing freon in a refrigerator or any other device, you need to make sure that there is enough knowledge and skills to carry out such events. You should have an approximate idea of the design features of the equipment.
Do not start the refueling process if you do not have the skills to work with pressurized containers. In addition, there must be knowledge of basic safety rules. It is advisable to read the instructions for a specific model of equipment, as it may have its own characteristics.
Materials and fixtures
To replace freon in cooling devices, you will need to prepare the necessary materials and additional equipment.
- The brand and volume of refrigerant purchased must match the device model. You have to buy a bottle of the right substance. Since the container is under high pressure, care must be taken during transportation.
- A pumping station is required to create a vacuum and to pump the starting material. It is best to rent it, as acquiring such equipment for a one-time refueling is quite expensive.
- Accurate scales will be needed to determine the amount of refrigerant injected. It is recommended to place the container with the substance on the balance, and then observe the changes in mass.
- Need devices for sealing the tube immediately after refueling and in areas of damage, if any. The type of solder is selected taking into account the material of the contour elements.
- A freshly purchased filter drier changes during any work related to a system leak.
- The Schröder valve makes it possible to create a certain pressure inside the circuits.
- A nitrogen bottle is required for purging. At pressures above 6 atmospheres, a pressure reducer will also be required.
Sequencing
As a basic example, take the Atlant refrigerator. Replacing freon in it is as follows.
- Schroeder valve is connected to the compressor nozzle. Basic equipment will be connected to it.
- With the help of pumping equipment, air circuits are pressed. If pressure drops, it is necessary to find a leak and perform soldering.
- The system is purged with nitrogen to be able to completely remove moisture from the inside of the system.
- The filter dryer is being replaced. The old item is truncated. The capillary tube is inserted into a new filter and sealed.
- A vacuum is created by means of a special pumping station. Air with nitrogen is evacuated from the circuits.
- The system is filling with freon. The refrigerant is connected to the Schröder valve. After pumping the desired weight, the cylinder is disconnected, and the gap is sealed.
Possible problems
When replacing freon, certain difficulties may arise. Insufficient drying of the inner part can lead to blockage of the capillary system and other negative consequences. Increasing the amount of refrigerant can also lead to trouble. The compressor operates in this case with overload, so the risk of its failure is significantly increased. In addition, the air inside the chambers will still not be cooled to the required temperature.
Final part
Incorrect replacement of freon in a car, at home, or in an industrial building may result in additional costs. Therefore, it is necessary at the initial stage to evaluate your capabilities and available knowledge. If all the subtleties and nuances are met, then there will be no problems with refueling.