Regular refrigerant leak detection is a crucial component of a comprehensive refrigeration and HVAC maintenance program. Due to their size, complexity, and increased usage levels, commercial refrigeration and HVAC systems are prone to leakage.
In fact, according to the EPA, an average of 25% of refrigerant escapes from commercial refrigeration systems each year. Sadly, these leaks often go unnoticed until they become major problems, which is why it’s important to recognize unaddressed refrigerant leaks before they have severe consequences.
CoolSys’ Leak Detection Solution
CoolSys offers two types of solutions: hands-on and automated leak detection services, both of which are part of CoolSys’s preventive maintenance services.
A Hands-On Approach
We recommend a hands-on approach for smaller operations like convenience stores, fast food restaurants, and non-industrial/cold storage systems. A highly skilled CoolSys technician equipped with cutting-edge leak detection tools regularly inspects your systems to identify and promptly address any leaks. As part of CoolSys’ comprehensive system service and maintenance program, the technician also performs necessary leak repairs, ensuring systems are operating at peak performance levels
An Automated Approach
Implementing an automated leak detection module can yield substantial advantages for large-scale operations, including grocery stores, food processing, cold storage operations, and food distributors. This cutting-edge system operates round the clock, diligently monitoring for leaks and promptly alerting someone on-site when they are detected. From there, CoolSys is immediately notified and dispatches a skilled technician to resolve the issue
At CoolSys, we excel in finding the ideal solution for your systems. Our team of experts will take care of the installation and calibration, leveraging intelligent controls and alerts to swiftly detect and resolve any leaks before they become major problems.
CoolSys offers both hands-on and automated options to detect and repair leaks as part of a comprehensive service and maintenance process.
CoolSys will customize a leak reduction strategy specifically for your systems, including frequency of visits, system modification for charge reduction recommendations, annual sensor calibration, and localized visual graphics and alarming for operating personnel.
Additionally, CoolSys calculates and documents the system’s leak rate, enabling easy federal and state reporting (where applicable) and maintaining a centralized record of these leaks. This allows for the detection of patterns and ensures timely resolution of root causes.
This comprehensive approach ensures efficient and effective refrigerant leak detection, prevention, and resolution.
BENEFITS OF COOLSYS’ REFRIGERANT LEAK DETECTION SOLUTION
FLEXIBLE OPTIONS TAILORED TO YOUR OPERATIONS
Hands-on, regularly scheduled inspections coupled with leveraging data from state-of-the-art continuous monitoring systems allow our engineers and technicians to custom-tailor a leak detection solution designed to work specifically with the type of systems in place and the age of the individual components.
It’s not just about hardware: We also tailor your solution to fit the overall size and complexities of your refrigeration systems to ensure maximum coverage with minimal impact on your business.
From monitoring and preventative actions to scheduling and repairs, our leak detection service fits your business and your budget.
FAST LEAK DETECTION AND REPAIR COMPLETION
If a leak is detected, a skilled CoolSys technician will promptly locate and repair the source of the problem. While they fix the new issue, our technicians will also consult their handheld service device, which can access the detailed repair history of your system, to look for patterns. This real-time data allows them to identify the root cause of the leak and address it proactively, preventing any potential escalation into a major issue.
These crucial steps are seamlessly integrated into CoolSys’ comprehensive maintenance and service program, protecting your entire refrigeration system and saving time and cost.
IMPROVED SYSTEMS PERFORMANCE, UPTIME, & EFFICIENCY
A low refrigerant level can eventually compromise the efficiency of the cooling system, leading to continuous operation as the system tries to maintain the desired temperature. This constant struggle ultimately shortens the lifespan of your equipment.
The CoolSys leak detection service is here to help ensure that your equipment operates as intended, reducing excessive electricity consumption and minimizing energy expenses. Properly maintaining your systems and addressing issues before they cause complete breakdowns can prevent downtime, spoilage of perishable goods, customer frustration, and costly repairs.
REDUCE HFC EMISSIONS, LOWER CARBON FOOTPRINT
HFC-based refrigerants, commonly utilized in HVAC and refrigeration systems, are potent greenhouse gases that significantly contribute to global warming.
To put it into perspective, the climate change impact of releasing just one pound of the most frequently used HFC refrigerant is equivalent to emitting nearly 4,000 pounds of carbon dioxide.
CoolSys’ comprehensive maintenance and service program effectively addresses leaks promptly, reducing the GHG emissions associated with your system and minimizing your operation’s carbon footprint.
REDUCE THE REFRIGERANT ANNUAL EXPENSE
The 2020 American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act aims to address HFCs by gradually reducing their production and consumption by 85% by 2026. The goal is to facilitate the transition to natural refrigerants with a low Global Warming Potential rating. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented an allowance system to meet the phasedown schedule. Production reduction was reduced by 10%, and in January 2024, it was further reduced by an additional 30%.
During this transition period, as systems are upgraded to eco-friendly refrigerants like CO2, the cost of HFCs is expected to rise significantly. Replenishing refrigerants will become expensive, making it more crucial than ever to address leaks promptly. Doing so can minimize the need for HFC replenishment and reduce refrigerant expenses.
REDUCE EPA REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Under section 608 of the Clean Air Act, regular inspections of commercial refrigeration and comfort cooling systems in the food retail, cold storage, and warehouse sectors are mandatory.
These inspections aim to promptly identify and address any leaks that may occur. After repairs have been made, the system should undergo testing, with refrigerant levels replenished as necessary. Logging and reporting all relevant information to the EPA is also important.
Deploying a comprehensive leak detection program on HFC and CO2 systems helps prevent recurring leaks, and we can help minimize the ongoing environmental reporting burden.
