ARTG45LHTA - Refrigerant Leak Investigation / No Leak Reproduced
This article summarises a factory investigation into a reported refrigerant leak on an ARTG45LHTA indoor unit. The unit had been installed for approximately seven weeks when the leak was reported, however the leak point could not be identified either in the field or during factory testing.
Key finding: The factory was unable to reproduce or locate a refrigerant leak after multiple pressure and leak tests. No manufacturing abnormality was identified in the production records reviewed for the unit.
Applies To
| Product | ARTG45LHTA |
| Reported unit reference | T007254 |
| Reported issue | Suspected refrigerant leak |
| Approximate time in service | 7 weeks |
Problem Detail
- A refrigerant leak was reported on an ARTG45LHTA approximately seven weeks after installation.
- Attempts were made to locate the leak point in the field, but no definite leak location could be identified.
- The unit was subsequently investigated by the factory.
Factory Analysis
The factory reviewed the manufacturing records for the reported unit and did not identify any production abnormality associated with the product.
The returned sample was then subjected to the following leak tests:
| Test | Method | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Production-line leak test | Helium charged to 1.2 MPa, followed by leak testing. | No leak located. |
| Sink test | Helium charged to 2.16 MPa, followed by immersion testing. | No leak located. |
| Overnight tightness test | Tightness test carried out after the 2.16 MPa sink test and maintained overnight. | No leak confirmed. |
Factory result: A leak point could not be identified during factory testing.
Discolouration / Tarnish Note
The factory noted that the discolouration visible on the unit was not refrigerant oil. It was identified as heat discolouration caused by the factory welding process.
Do not use weld discolouration alone as evidence of a refrigerant leak. Confirm leakage using appropriate leak-detection methods.
Factory Conclusion
- No abnormality was identified from the manufacturing records reviewed.
- No refrigerant leak could be reproduced during the factory leak, sink or overnight tightness tests.
- The original leak point therefore remained unconfirmed.
- If the same issue occurs again, the factory indicated that further investigation should include not only the heat exchanger but also other connection components.
Service Guidance
- Where refrigerant loss is suspected, do not assume the heat exchanger is the source unless the leak point is confirmed.
- Leak-test the indoor heat exchanger and all accessible joints, flare connections and associated refrigerant connection components.
- Do not interpret normal factory weld heat staining as refrigerant oil residue without further confirmation.
- If the system has lost charge but no leak can be found, record the test pressures and methods used before escalating the case for further investigation.