Refrigerant recovery machines for HVAC are a necessary piece of equipment for technicians to have in their arsenal. They’re designed to pump refrigerant into your cylinder without the risk of leaks and contaminants in the air. Choosing the right machine for your needs will help you get the job done faster, better, and more safely.
When selecting a recovery unit, make sure it’s UL recognized and carries a 3-year warranty. Look for one that can handle multiple refrigerants, including A2L refrigerants. You should also consider the size of the cylinders and what type of hoses you plan on using. Larger cylinders will be more convenient, as you won’t have to swap them out as often during a job. Additionally, they tend to stay cooler and can allow you to evacuate a system more quickly. Ideally, you should use hoses that are as short as possible for your particular job. This will ensure you’re getting the most efficient recovery and reduce your impact on the environment.
You’ll want to be familiar with refrigerant recovery protocols as well, including not mixing different types of refrigerants and never filling a tank beyond 80%. If you mix refrigerants, it can be extremely dangerous and can cause the P-T (pressure-temperature) to change. It can also result in a loss of efficiency as each refrigerant has its own optimum temperature-pressure conditions for use.
In addition to having the right refrigerant recovery machine, you’ll need to make sure your cylinders and hoses are clean and ready for use. Keep your cylinders cool by standing them in ice water or running a hose over them to prevent heat build-up. You should also purge your hoses to avoid contaminating your machine with air, which can slow your job down.
Once your hoses are prepared, you’ll need to loosen and unseat the hose attachment on the cylinder to let in refrigerant. You’ll also need to open hose valves, core removal tool valves, and service valves. Then, you can turn on the recovery machine and begin your job. You’ll need to complete liquid recovery and then move on to direct vapor recovery.
As you do your job, remember to protect yourself by wearing the proper PPE. This includes safety goggles, gloves, and a face mask. It’s also important to use the correct oil and follow any directions provided by the manufacturer for your machine.
If you’re looking for a new refrigerant recovery machine, check out the Fieldpiece MR45. It’s a variable speed DC motor machine with a digital display that makes it easy to connect and view your hoses, refrigerant pressures, and status messages. Plus, it’s super lightweight so you can easily carry it to and from the job site. The MR45 also features a self-purge function that pumps the last traces of refrigerant into your cylinder so they’re not left in your machine or released into the environment. Learn more about this innovative recovery unit by visiting its product page. Refrigerant recovery machines for HVAC