If you’ve received a complaint from a client that their freezer is not reaching standard temperature, it’s essential to check the refrigerant levels and the condition of the unit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add R404A refrigerant into an upright freezer based on the information provided in the video tutorial.
Initial Inspection
Upon arriving at the site, check the unit for any signs of ice buildup on the evaporator. If the pipes with insulator are covered with ice, it indicates that the evaporator is not functioning properly.
Manual Defrost
If ice buildup is observed, manual defrosting may be necessary. Use a heat gun to melt the frost accumulated on the evaporator. While doing this, proceed to check the electrical parts of the unit, including the run capacitor and the defrost heater.
Checking Electrical Components
- Run Capacitor: Ensure that the run capacitor has the correct specifications. In the video, a 19175 uf microfarad capacitor was checked, which should match the required specifications for the compressor.
- Defrost Heater: Verify the functionality of the defrost heater by checking the ampere reading. In the video, a three-ampere reading was obtained, indicating that the defrost heater is working.
Checking Refrigerant Levels
After melting the frost formation, check the refrigerant pressure. In the video, a pressure of 17 psi was obtained, which was below the standard running pressure of 25 psi for a four-door freezer. This indicates a need to add refrigerant.
Adding Refrigerant
To add refrigerant, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific refrigerant type and the amount required based on the system’s specifications. In the video, the technician used a chart to calculate the amount of R410A refrigerant needed based on the additional line set length.
Procedure for Adding Refrigerant
- Prepare the Refrigerant Bottle: Ensure that the refrigerant bottle has a valve on the end and is in the upside-down position to allow only liquid refrigerant to come out.
- Open the Valves: Use an Allen wrench to open the valves counterclockwise to allow the refrigerant to enter the system.
- Add the Calculated Amount: Based on the calculated amount of refrigerant needed, add the appropriate quantity into the system.
Additional Information
For further details on the pressures and operation of a cold room using R404A refrigerant, the video provides insights into the low and high pressures for the evaporator and condenser. It also outlines the various parts of the cold room and explains the operation of the electronic controller.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety precautions when adding refrigerant to any system. If you’re new to refrigeration, it’s essential to seek professional guidance and training before attempting any refrigerant-related procedures.
