Refrigerant Charging, Method of Charging

Refrigerant Charging

NOTE: BECAUSE THE RAC SYSTEM IS A SEALED SYSTEM, SERVICE PROCESS TUBES WILL HAVE TO BE INSTALLED. FIRST INSTALL A LINE TAP AND REMOVE REFRIGERANT FROM SYSTEM. MAKE NECESSARY SEALED SYSTEM REPAIRS AND VACUUM SYSTEM. CRIMP PROCESS TUBE LINE AND SOLDER END SHUT. DO NOT LEAVE A SERVICE VALVE IN THE SEALED SYSTEM.

Proper refrigerant charge is essential to proper unit operation. Operating a unit with an improper refrigerant charge will result in reduced performance (capacity) and/or efﬁciency. Accordingly, the use of proper charging methods during servicing will insure that the unit is functioning as designed and that its compressor will not be damaged.

Too much refrigerant (overcharge) in the system is just as bad (if not worse) than not enough refrigerant (undercharge). They both can be the source of certain compressor failures if they remain uncorrected for any period of time. Quite often, other problems (such as low air ﬂow across evaporator, etc.) are misdiagnosed as refrigerant charge problems. The refrigerant circuit diagnosis chart will assist you in properly diagnosing these systems.

An overcharged unit will at times return liquid refrigerant (slugging) back to the suction side of the compressor eventually causing a mechanical failure within the compressor. This mechanical failure can manifest itself as valve failure, bearing failure, and/or other mechanical failure. The speciﬁc type of failure will be inﬂuenced by the amount of liquid being returned, and the length of time the slugging continues.

Not enough refrigerant (Undercharge) on the other hand, will cause the temperature of the suction gas to increase to the point where it does not provide sufﬁcient cooling for the compressor motor. When this occurs, the motor winding temperature will increase causing the motor to overheat and possibly cycle open the compressor overload protector. Continued overheating of the motor windings and/or cycling of the overload will eventually lead to compressor motor or overload failure.

METHOD OF CHARGING

The acceptable method for charging the RAC system is the Weighed in Charge Method. The weighed in charge method is applicable to all units. It is the preferred method to use, as it is the most accurate.

The weighed in method should always be used whenever a charge is removed from a unit such as for a leak repair, compressor replacement, or when there is no refrigerant charge left in the unit. To charge by this method, requires the following steps:

1.Install a piercing valve to remove refrigerant from the sealed system. (Piercing valve must be removed from the system before recharging.)

2.Recover Refrigerant in accordance with EPA regulations.

3.Install a process tube to sealed system.

4.Make necessary repairs to system.

5.Evacuate system to 250 - 300 microns or less.

6.Weigh in refrigerant with the property quantity of R-22 refrigerant.

7.Start unit, and verify performance.

8.Crimp the process tube and solder the end shut.

NOTE: In order to access the sealed system it will be necessary to install Schrader type ﬁttings to the process tubes on the discharge and suction of the compressor. Proper refrigerant recovery procedures need to be adhered to as outlined in EPA Regulations. THIS SHOULD ONLY BE ATTEMPTED BY QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

CP14N10, CP18N30, CP24N30 specifications

The Friedrich CP24N30, CP18N30, and CP14N10 are a trio of innovative portable air conditioning units designed to provide optimal comfort in residential and commercial settings. Each model boasts distinct features tailored to various room sizes, ensuring efficient temperature management.

Starting with the Friedrich CP24N30, this unit is engineered for larger spaces, able to cool areas up to 1,500 square feet. Its powerful cooling capacity of 24,000 BTUs allows it to quickly lower temperatures even in challenging environments. This model incorporates advanced inverter technology, which enhances energy efficiency by adjusting its cooling output according to the current temperature. Furthermore, the CP24N30 is equipped with a robust dehumidification function, capable of removing excess moisture from the air, making it ideal for humid climates. Its user-friendly interface, remote control, and Wi-Fi capability allow for convenient operation from anywhere in the home.

The Friedrich CP18N30 is a versatile choice for medium-sized rooms, covering up to 1,100 square feet with its 18,000 BTU cooling capacity. Like its larger counterpart, it features inverter technology, which not only saves energy but also results in quieter operation, a crucial factor for those who prioritize peace and tranquility in their living spaces. The CP18N30 also has a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio), making it a cost-effective option for cooling. Its built-in timer, along with programmable settings, enables homeowners to schedule operation according to their lifestyle, ensuring cooling is available when it is most required.

Lastly, the Friedrich CP14N10 is designed for smaller rooms, offering a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs and catering to areas up to 600 square feet. This unit balances performance and size, making it an excellent option for apartments and smaller living spaces. The CP14N10 maintains the brand's commitment to efficiency with its inverter technology that minimizes energy usage while maximizing cooling output. Like the other models, it includes a dehumidification setting, enhancing indoor air quality by alleviating humidity levels.

In all three models, Friedrich integrates smart technologies such as fault diagnosis and self-cleaning capabilities, ensuring reliability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, they come equipped with washable filters, promoting long-term efficiency and cleaner air. With their varying cooling capacities, these units offer tailored solutions for a wide array of environments while emphasizing energy efficiency and user convenience.