Fix Aircon Gas Leak for Midea MS4OD-28 Condenser Unit

Existing Condensing Unit (CU) Model: Midea MS4OD-28

Existing Fan Coil Unit (FCU) Model: SMKM-09-I-04

Reason for the service:

• Loss of Cooling Capacity- The reason for the service is that the air conditioner isn’t cooling properly after a gas top-up a few days ago.

Aircon gas leak repair Job Scopes:

1. Preparation

• Gather Equipment: Assemble all necessary tools and materials, including a refrigerant leak detector (electronic or ultraviolet (UV) dye and light), soap solution, manifold gauge set, repair tools (e.g., welding or brazing equipment), and replacement refrigerant.

2. Initial Inspection

• Visual Inspection: Begin with a thorough visual inspection of all accessible refrigerant lines, joints, and connections for signs of oil residue, corrosion, or physical damage, which can indicate potential leak points.

3. Using a Refrigerant Leak Detector

• Electronic Detector: An electronic leak detector is sensitive to the presence of refrigerant gases.
  Slowly move the probe along the refrigerant lines, paying close attention to joints and connections.
  The detector will alert you to the presence of refrigerant.

4. Repairing Leaks

• Small Leaks: For minor leaks at joints or connections, it may be possible to repair them by tightening or replacing fittings.
• Welding or Brazing: For a small leak, brazing is sufficient to cover the hole.
  Larger leaks or those in the piping may require cutting out the damaged section and welding or brazing a new piece of pipe.
  First, clean around the gas leak area using sandpaper to clearly identify the leaking points on the condensing coil.
  Cleaning not only improves visibility but also removes oxidation, paint, and debris.
  Ensure the area is clean and free from any refrigerant or oils before welding.
• Replace Components: In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire section of piping or faulty components.
  Additional charge applies.

5. Post-Repair Testing

• Vacuum the System: Once repairs are completed, use a vacuum pump to evacuate the system. This removes air and moisture.

• Checking for leaks: Hold the Vacuum: After the vacuum process is complete, turn off the vacuum pump and observe the pressure reading on the gauge for a few minutes.
  If the pressure remains stable, the system is likely free of leaks.
  If the pressure increases, it indicates a leak that must be located and repaired before proceeding.

6. Recharge Refrigerant

• Calculating Refrigerant Quantity: Determine the factory-specified refrigerant charge for the system, typically noted on the data plate of the outdoor unit.
  Adjust the length of the piping as necessary, using guidelines found in the manufacturer’s installation manual.
• Refrigerant Cylinder Preparation: Place the refrigerant cylinder on the scales and connect the yellow hose to the cylinder.
  Open the cylinder valve slightly to purge air from the hose, then close the valve.
• Initiating Charging: Open the low side valve on the manifold gauge to allow the refrigerant to flow into the system.
  Monitor the scales to ensure the correct amount of refrigerant is added.
• Finishing the Charge: Once the specified weight of refrigerant has been charged, close the manifold gauge valves, and disconnect the hoses.

7. Final Checks and Start-up

• Re-check for Leaks: Perform a final leak check to ensure system integrity.
• Start-up the System: Restore power to the air conditioning unit and start it. Observe the operation for a few minutes to ensure it is functioning correctly.

• Performance Check: Measure the temperature drop across the indoor unit to assess cooling performance, including suction line temperature and pressure, FCU return air and off-coil air temperatures, and superheat value.

8. Documentation and Cleanup

• Record Keeping: Document the process, including the amount of refrigerant charged, and any repairs carried out.
• Clean-up: Ensure all caps are replaced on service valves, tools are collected, and the work area is clean.

FAQ: Refrigerant Gas Pipe Leaks in Aircon

1. What are the signs of a refrigerant gas pipe leak in my air conditioner?

Common signs include decreased cooling efficiency after 1 to 3 days of the gas top-up, hissing or bubbling noises, ice formation on the refrigerant line, and an oily residue on or around the Aircon condenser unit.

2. What causes refrigerant gas pipe leaks in air conditioners?

Refrigerant gas pipe leaks in air conditioners can stem from several factors.

Over time, wear and tear can compromise the integrity of the pipes, leading to leaks.

Refrigerant gas pipe leaks can result from improper chemical washing of air conditioners. Harsh or incorrect cleaning agents can corrode the pipes and connections, leading to leaks. Additionally, inadequate rinsing can leave residues that accelerate wear and tear.

Factory defects and improper installation can result in weak points that eventually give way.

Physical damage to the refrigerant lines, whether from accidental impacts or environmental factors, can also cause leaks.

Additionally, the constant vibration of the air conditioner can gradually loosen joints, creating gaps through which the refrigerant gas can escape.

3. Can I fix aircon gas leak myself?

It is not recommended to fix a refrigerant leak yourself. Refrigerant handling requires special tools (eg., pressure gauge, refrigerant scale, etc) and certification due to the hazardous nature of the chemicals. It’s best to contact a BCA Trained Installer.

4. How can I prevent refrigerant leaks in my air conditioner?

Proper Chemical Washing: Use appropriate, mild cleaning agents and ensure thorough rinsing to prevent corrosion and residue build-up that can damage refrigerant pipes and connections.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular professional maintenance to check and clean all components, ensuring no build-up or damage that could lead to leaks.

5. How much does it cost to repair a refrigerant gas pipe leak?

The cost to repair a refrigerant gas pipe leak varies depending on the leak’s severity, location, and refrigerant type. Typically, it ranges from $350 to $600, including our BCA-licensed installers’ fees and refrigerant refill. Our pricing covers all necessary submissions, ensuring repairs are conducted by certified air-conditioning unit installers as mandated by the Building and Construction Authority.

6. How long does it take to repair a refrigerant leak?

The time required to repair a refrigerant leak can vary depending on the location and severity of the leak. Minor leaks might take 2 hours to fix, while more severe or difficult-to-access leaks could take 4 hours.

Our Aircon Services

1. System Analysis

2. Refrigerant renewal

3. Refrigerant pipe leak repair

4. Condenser Unit Alkaline Wash

5. Alkaline Wash with FCU Component Removal

6. Alkaline Wash without FCU Component Removal

7. FCU Essential Servicing

HDB Name: 120B Canberra Crescent

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