How to determine refrigerant type.

[cccelcj]

Can anyone tell me if there is any way to determine the type of refrigerant being used in a split, 5 ton residential A/C system?

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[ClydeMule]

Look at the nameplate if one exists. It's probably R-22. Maybe 410a if it is fairly new.

Clyde

 

[cccelcj]

I guess what I really mean is this. Yes, This system does use R22. However, let's say I didn't know this. Is there any way, with the use of a compound pressure gauge, pressure/temperature charts or any other devices available (aside from a refrigerant analyzer) that would let me know what type of refrigerant I might have? And if so, what techniques must I use?

Thanks.

 

[IRstuff]

I don't get the gist of your question. The analyzers that are commercially available seem to be reasonably priced and there seems to be quite a variety.

This suggests that it is the most plausible and possibly the only approach to problem.

Consider the corollary: how could anyone determine the composition of a resistor by simply measuring current and power?



TTFN

 

[MintJulep]

With the system off and the refigerant at saturation you could measure the pressure in the system and the ambient temperature. Match the pressure-temperature against refrigerant tables.

This should narrow things down to a few choices.

If the system isn't contaminated with non-condensible gas, or it hasn't been topped off with something other than what is supposed to be there.

 

[ClydeMule]

I think the key point to what everyone is said so far is that pressure/temperature data will point to a couple of refrigerants.

Without taking ANY measurements there is a 95% chance (random # I picked) that the system is R22. If it isn't it is R410a. If it is not those two than you have something that may exist but is definitely an oddball.

Look at the compressor model#. For Copeland scrolls if the model starts ZP you have R-410a.

If you are just curious as to what you have in your home it is easiest to look up model#'s and the like. Assuming the refrigerant in there is what is supposed to be there. I guess that is one reason you would want to know.

Maybe you should tell us what you are trying to do.

Clyde

 

[cccelcj]

In that I am a novice at refrigeration, having recently aquired Universal certification, these concerns are for my personal edification. I have over 25 years of experience as an electrical technician in an industrial environment. So I am really trying to strenghen my understanding in the theory and physics of mechanical refrigeration. I browse the forum from time to time and I can tell you members are very knowledgable in this area. Thanks for the info, as it will be valuable wisdom. Hope I can continue to pick your brains every now and then.

 

[ClydeMule]

If you are trying to learn then I recommend going to

http://www.hvac-talk.com.

If is a very informative site. Everyone is helpful and professional, no flame wars. Alt.hvac is a waste of time.

Good luck!

Clyde