ARGO MAYA PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER (LOCAL) User Manual
- June 4, 2024
- argo
Table of Contents
- Safety instruction
- The Refrigerant R290
- PRECAUTION!
- DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLIANCE
- APPLIANCE START-UP
- HOW TO USE THE APPLIANCE
- REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION
- TROUBLESHOOTING
- CARE AND MAINTENANCE
- TIPS FOR MAXIMISING COMFORT AND MINIMISING CONSUMPTION
- Specialist’s Manual
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
ARGO MAYA PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER (LOCAL) User Manual
Safety instruction
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Appliance is filled with flammable gas R290.
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Before installing and using the appliance, read the owner manual.
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Before installing the appliance, read the installation manual.
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Any repairs you need, contact the nearest authorized Service Centre and strictly follow manufacturer’s Service Manual.
The Refrigerant R290
- To realize the function of the air conditioner unit, a special refrigerant circulates in the system. The Refrigerant is the fluoride R290 = 3 GWP (Global warming potential). This refrigerant is flammable and in odorous. It can lead to explosions under certain conditions, however the flammability of this refrigerant is very low and it can be ignited only by fire.
- Compared to other common refrigerants, R290 is a non-polluting refrigerant with no harm to the ionosphere and a no effect upon the greenhouse effect. R290 has very good thermodynamic features which lead to a really high energy efficiency. The units therefore need less filling.
Warning:
Do not try to accelerate the defrosting process or to clean the appliance in
different ways other than those recommended by the manufacturer. Should repair
be necessary, contact your nearest authorized Service Centre. Any repairs
carried out by unqualified personnel may be dangerous. The appliance has to be
stored in a room that doesn’t have any continuously operating ignition
sources. (for example: open flames, an operating gas appliance or an operating
electric heater.) Do not pierce or burn.
Appliance has to be nstalled, used and stored in a room with a floor area larger than 14 m2. For repairs, strictly follow manufacturer’s instructions only for appliances filled with R290
GENERAL OPERATING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- This appliance is a local air conditioner designed for domestic use.
- Only use this air-conditioner as described in this manual.
- Ensure that the required voltage and frequency (220-240 V/50 Hz) match the available power source.
- Fuse style T, 250V AC, 2A or higher, the electricity passing through the fuse cannot be above 2A.
- This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and people with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
- Children shall not play with the appliance.
- Do not insert fingers, rods into the air outlet. Take special car towarn children of these dangers.
- Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
- Ensure that the electricity system is able to deliver the operating current required by the air conditioner, in addition to that normally absorbed by other appliances (household appliances, lighting system, etc.). Please refer to the maximum power input data indicated on the air conditioner’s data plate. Connection to the electricity grid must take place in accordance with current installation standards.
- Ensure that the automatic switches and system protection valves are able to withstand a start-up current of 4A (normally for less than 1 second).
- The system socket must always be fitted with an efficient earth connection.
- Make sure that the plug is fully inserted. Do not use multiple adapters. Do not touch the plug with wet ands.
- Make sure that the plug is clean.
- Do not use the plug as a means by which to start/stop the air conditioner: use the ON/OFF button on the remote control or on the control panel.
- Do not install the air conditioner in rooms where it may receive water splashes (e.g. laundry rooms, bathrooms, showers and swimming pools).
- Before moving or cleaning the device, ensure that it is unplugged from the socket.
- Do not move the air conditioner while it is operating; first turn the appliance off, check for any condensate build-up and empty it if necessary.
- To turn the appliance off, set the remote control to OFF and remove the plug from the socket. Pull on the plug only. Do not pull the cord.
- Do not use the appliance if the cord or plug are damaged. If the power supply wire is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its technical assistance service or in any case by a person with similar qualifications, in order to prevent any risk.
- The appliance must be installed in accordance with national wiring regulations.
- Keep the unit away from fire, possible fire sources, inflammable or explosive objects or oils are likely to splash.
- Do not leave the unit unattended while it’s operating, turn the unit off and unplug it.
- Do not splash or pour water on the air conditioner
PRECAUTION!
Do not insert any objects into the air conditioner: this is very dangerous as the fan rotates at high speed.
- Ensure that air circulates freely around the unit. Do not cover the air intake and delivery grilles with drapes or other items.
- To avoid the possibility to fire disaster, the air conditioner shall be not covered.
WARNING
- The air conditioner must be positioned at least 50 cm away from the wall or other obstacles, on a flat and stable surface so as to avoid water leakages.
- The air conditioner is equipped with a compressor overload protection system, whereby the compressor only starts once 3 minutes have elapsed from its previous stoppage.
- Please wait at least 3 minutes before starting the unit. This helps to prevent the compressor from being damaged.
WARNING!
In the event of an anomaly, a strange noise, a smell or a smoke, switch the appliance off and unplug from he socket. Do not dismantle or attempt to repair or modify the product. In the event of a malfunction, contact the after-sales service centre directly
WARNING
- Do not expose the air conditioner to direct sunlight.
- Do not use insecticides, oils, detergents or spray paints near the appliance; do not use aggressive chemical detergents to clean the casing as this may damage the finish and colour.
- Close all open windows to maximise air conditioning efficiency.
The manufacturer shall not be held liable if the relevant safety and accident prevention rules are not served.
DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLIANCE
FRONT VIEW
- CONTROL PANEL AND FUNCTION BUTTONS WITHOUT REMOTE CONTROL
- HORIZONTAL FINS AND AIR INTAKE
- WHEELS
- LATERAL AIR INPUT
- LATERAL REMOVABLE FILTER
- REAR PANEL
- FRONT PANEL
- POWER CORD
- AIR INPUT AND REAR REMOVABLE FILTER
- REMOTE CONTROL
SIDE VIEW
**REAR VIEW
**
Min/max operating limits (internal temperature)
Cooling: 18 °C DB / 35 °C DB
Humidification: 16 °C DB / 35 °C DB
Cooling mode room temperature adjustment range: 16 °C DB / 31 °C DB
APPLIANCE START-UP
Open the packaging and remove the box from above. Remove the product and the other elements supplied (illustrated in the box below
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Remote control
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Type AAA batteries for the remote control
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Round fitting to position between the air discharge outlet and the flexible pip
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Hose
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End fitting for window
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Window unit kit with plug
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Round fitting for window unit, for positioning between the end of the tube and the window unititself.
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Drainage tube.
Position the product vertically on a flat and stable surface, as close as possible to a window and at east 50 cm from walls or other nearby obstacle
USE WITH END FITTING FOR WINDOW
Connect the flat fitting to the hose, extend the hose as far as necessary for reaching the outside and it connect to the back of the air conditioner. Next, slide the flat fitting downwards into the grooves (A) and secure it with the hook (B). The upward-facing side of the flat fitting is marked “TOP”.
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Connect the round window fitting to the end of the hose then the end fitting for the window, previously obtained by joining parts A and B.
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Open the windows and lock one of the two leaves with the handle.
Place the end fitting against the fixed leaf of the window, and draw the other leaf towards it.
USE WITH WINDOW UNIT KIT
To make the hole in the glass it is advisable to bring the window kit to the
glazier as well.
Insert the window unit without its closure cap into the window. Insert the round fitting into the retractable hose and insert the retractable hose with the round fitting into the window unit.
Insert the flat fitting onto the hose.
Insert the assembled hose into the back of the air conditioner
The outlet must be between 40 cm and 130 cm above the ground.
Avoid tight curves or bends in the flexible hose.
When the air conditioner is not being used, disconnect the hose and fit the closing cap.
Connect the power cord to a suitable electrical socket (220-240 V). Insert the batteries supplied into the remote control, while observing the polarities. Select the desired operating mode from the remote control.
HOW TO USE THE APPLIANCE
This appliance can be used for cooling, dehumidifying and ventilating. When switching between modes, the fan continues to rotate but the compressor stops: the compressor will start after 3 minutes. This delay rotects the compressor from potential damage.
THE DISCHARGE TUBE MUST ALWAYS BE CONNECTED to the appliance: the only exception is when the appliance is used solely for humidification, in which ase it is advisable to let the appliance discharge directly into the environment for maximum efficiency consult the “Humidification Mode” paragraph). Regularly clean the air filters beneath the easily removable rear grille to keep the air conditioner working efficiently. It is advisable to put a thickness of a few centimeters under the product to ensure an adequate slope of the continuous condensate drain pipe.
OPERATING MODES
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COOLING MODE (COOL)
- The “Cool” LED on the control panel will turn on.
- The temperature can be adjusted to between 16 °C and 31 °C.
- In this mode, the fan speed can be adjusted and the Timer function can be set.
- For more silent operation, run the fan at low speed
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HUMIDIFICATION MODE (DEHUM)
- Press the MODE button to select Humidification.
- The temperature is automatically set 2 degrees below the room temperature.
- The fan speed is set to low and cannot be adjusted.
NOTE
The air conditioner does not cool the room when it is used as a dehumidifier. When the appliance is used as a dehumidifier, the flexible hose must not be connected.
For maximum humidification efficiency, leave the rear discharge attachment free to discharge directly into the environment.
The humidification mode is recommended during autumn and winter.
If used in summer, it is best to leave the flexible hose attached so that the hot air can be discharged towards the outside rather than into the room.
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VENTILATION MODE (FAN)
- Press the MODE button to select Fan and wait until the relative icon appears.
- Press SPEED to set the ventilation speed.
- The temperature cannot be adjusted.
CONDENSATE ELIMINATION
This appliance automatically vaporises condensate in cooling mode. Ensure that when the unit is perating in cooling mode, the rubber caps closing the drainage holes on the rear of the appliance are roperly positioned. When the tank is full, the “Full Tank” led will light up (button W.F. on display) To mpty the container, switch the air conditioner off and unplug it. Remove the cap form the rear drainage ole and direct it over a normal drain. Ensure that the tube is not twisted or bent. The tube must slope ownwards. Reclose the drainage hole with the cap and resume use of the air conditioner.
WARNING!
Continuous Condensate
When using the air conditioner in humidification mode, we recommend always
ensuring continuous rainage, in order to maximise humidification efficiency.
Use the low drainage outlet on the appliance. The water can be drained into a drain by simply connecting he supplied drainage tube.
It is advisable to put a thickness of a few centimeter under the product to nsure an adequate slope of the continuous condensate drain pipe.
REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION
Insert the batteries into the remote control, while respecting the indicated polarities. Only use type AAA .5V batteries. Remove the batteries if the remote control is not used for a month or longer. Do not attempt to recharge the batteries. Replace all batteries at the same time. Do not throw the batteries into fire: they may explode.
INFORMATION FOR CORRECT DISPOSAL OF THE BATTERIES PURSUANT TO EUROPEAN DIRECTIVE
2006/66/EC and amendments Directive 56/2013/EC
Replace the batteries when depleted. At the end of their working life,
batteries must be disposed of separately from unsorted waste. They must be
must be delivered to appropriate separated waste disposal lats or to dealers
that provide a similar service. Separate waste disposal of batteries prevents
potential negative effects on the environment and human health resulting from
inadequate disposal, and also allows he materials from which it is made to be
recovered and recycled in order to achieve significant savings in ems of
energy and resources. The separate disposal obligation is underlined by the
crossed-out dustbin symbol appearing on the battery. Illegal disposal of the
product by the user is subject to administrative penalties as per current
regulations.
FOR OPTIMAL REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION, POINT THE TRANSMITTER HEAD TOWARDS THE RECEIVER LOCATED ON THE AIR CONDITIONER.
The remote control can be activated by pressing the ON/OFF button on the portable unit. The icon on he remote control display will flash once and a buzzer will sound to indicate that the signal was ransmitted to the air conditioner.
- ON/OFF BUTTON
- MODE BUTTON
- BUTTON
- BUTTON
- FAN BUTTON
- TIMER BUTTON
CONTROL PANEL
a. POWER ON/OFF BUTTON
b. BUTTON
c. RECEIVING SENSOR
d. SPEED BUTTON
e. TIMER BUTTON
f. BUTTON
g. MODE BUTTON
FULL – Tank full LED – lights up red when the internal tank is full and needs to be emptied
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ON/OFF BUTTON
Press this button to switch the unit on or off. -
MODE BUTTON
When the unit is on, press this button to choose the desired mode among: COOLING, FAN and DEHUMIDIFYING. -
BUTTON TEMP
Press this button to adjust the temperature and set the time. -
BUTTON TEMP
Press this button to adjust the temperature and set the time. -
SPEED BUTTON
In the cooling and fan modes, press this button to adjust the ventilation speed to low (Low) or high (High). In certain conditions, the fan speed may not function according to the settings.
In dehumidifying mode, this button cannot be pressed, thus the fan will forcefully choose the low fan speed -
TIMER BUTTON
- When the air conditioner is off, press “TIMER” to set when to switch the unit on. Press “+” o “–“ to set the time.
- When the air conditioner is on, press “TIMER” to set when to switch the unit off. Press “+” o “–“ to set the time.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubles
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Possible Causes
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Suggested Remedies
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Unit does not start when pressing power button|
- Water full indicator lamp blinks, and water tank is full. (W.F.)
| Dump the water out of the water tank.
- Room temperature is lower than the setting temperature.
| Reset the temperature
Not cool enough|
- There are heat sources inside the room.
| Remove the heat sources if possible
- The doors and windows are not closed
| Make sure all the doors and windows are closed
- Exhaust air hose is not connected or blocked.
| Connect or clean the exhaust air hose.
- Temperature setting is too high.
| Reset the temperature
- Air inlet is blocked.
| Clean the air inlet.
Noisy|
- The ground is not levelled or not flat enough
| Place the unit on a flat, level ground if possible
- The sound comes from the flowing of the refrigerant inside the air conditioner
| It is normal.
E2 Code|
- Water tank full in cooling mode
| Take off the rubber stopper and empty the water tank.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
WARNING!
Prior to carrying out any cleaning or maintenance, unplug the unit from the power socket.
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Cleaning the air filters
The air filter must be checked at least once every two weeks of operation. Operating with dirty or clogged filters will decrease the effectiveness of the air conditioner and can cause serious problems. To remove the filter, release he rear grille then slide out the filter by gently pulling it sideways.
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust. Should this not be sufficient, wash the filter with lukewarm water 40°) and neutral detergent (if necessary), rinse it with cold water then leave it to dry naturally before putting it ack in place. After putting the filter back in place, close the grille and resume use of the air conditioner. -
Cleaning the casing
Use a soft damp cloth to clean the outer surface of the air conditioner. Do not use excessively hot water, solvents, petrol or other aggressive chemical compounds, talcum powder and brushes: they may damage the surface or colour of the casing. Remove any stains using warm water with a little neutral detergent. Do not pouter onto the air conditioner to clean it: this may damage the internal components or cause a short circuit. -
Storage
When you do not envisage using the air conditioner for a long time, clean the filters before storing it away. Keep he appliance in a vertical position at all times. Do not place any heavy objects on he top and, if possible, protect he air conditioner with a plastic sheet. -
Transport
Preferably keep the air conditioner in the vertical position when transporting it.Should this not be possible, rest it on its right-hand side; when it reaches its destination, immediately put the appliance in the vertical position and ait at least 4 hours before using it in the cooling mode. -
For complete safety, regularly check the condition of the power cord; should it be damaged through use, contact the Service Centre to replace it.
TIPS FOR MAXIMISING COMFORT AND MINIMISING CONSUMPTION
CHECK that:
- The unit’s extraction and delivery grilles are always unobstructed;
- The air filters are always clean: a dirty filter will decrease the passage of air and thus reduce the unit performance;
- The doors and windows are closed, to avoid infiltration of unconditioned air;
- The flexible hose is correctly positioned, without folds or sharp bends;
- The room temperature is above 16 ºC for the cooling mode, and above 16 ºC for dehumidification mode.
REGULATION (EU) No. 517/2014 – F-GAS
The unit contains R290, a natural gas with global warming potential (GWP) = 3.
Do not release R290 into the atmosphere.
Kg. 0.14 = 0.00042 Tonn CO2 equiv
INFORMATION FOR THE CORRECT DISPOSAL OF THE PRODUCT IN ACCORDANCE WITH EUROPEAN
DIRECTIVE 2012/19/EU
This appliance may not be scrapped with domestic waste at the end of its life cycle. We call your attention to the crucial role played by the consumer in the re-use, recycling and other forms of recovery of such waste. The appliance must be scrapped by a sorted waste disposal centre or by returning it to the retailer (no charge is levied or this service), when you purchase a new equivalent appliance. Sorted disposal of electric and electronic equipment prevents the negative effects on the environment and human health resulting from improper crapping, and also allows the materials from which it is made to be recovered and recycled, with significant savings in terms of energy and resources. The sorted disposal requirement is indicated by the crossed waste bin able affixed to the appliance.
Specialist’s Manual
Aptitude requirement for maintenance man (repairs. should be done only be specialists).
- Any person who is involved with working on or breaking into a refrigerant circuit should hold a current valid certificate from an industry-accredited assessment authority, which authorises their competence to candle refrigerants safely in accordance with an industry recognised assessment specification.
- Servicing shall only be performed as recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Maintenance and repair requiring the assistance of other skilled personnel shall be carried out under the supervision of the person competent in the use of flammable refrigerants.
Safety preparation work.
The maximum refrigerant charge amount is shown on the following table a
(Note : Please refer to the nameplate for the charging quantity of R290)
Room area (m2) | 4 | 11 | 15 |
---|---|---|---|
Maximum charge (kg) | <0.152 |
0.225
| 0.304
Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimised. For repair to the refrigerating system, the following precautions shall be complied with prior to conducting work on the system.
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Work procedure
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimise the risk of a flammable gas or vaporizing present while the work is being performed. -
General work area
AII maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature of work being carried out. Work in confined spaces shall be avoided. The area around the workspace shall be sectioned off.
Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made safe by control of flammable material. Checking for presence of refrigerant The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work, to ensure the technician is aware of potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with all applicable refrigerants, i.e. non-sparking, adequately sealed or intrinsically safe. -
Presence of fire extinguisher
lf any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts, appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent o the charging area. -
No ignition sources
No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing any pipe work hall use any sources of ignition in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of fire or explosion. AII possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of installation, repairing,removing and disposal, during which refrigerant can possibly be released to the surrounding space. Prior to work taking place, the area around the equipment is to be surveyed to make sure that there are no flammable hazards or ignition risks. “No Smoking” signs shall be displayed. -
Ventilated area
Ensure that the area is in the open or that it is adequately ventilated before breaking into the system or
conducting any hot work. A degree of ventilation shall continue during the period that the work is carried out.The ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably expel it externally into the atmosphere. -
Checks to the refrigeration equipment
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the purpose and tohe correct
specification. At all times the manufacturer’s maintenance and service guidelines shall be followed. lf in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s technical department for assistance.
The following checks shall be applied to installations using flammable refrigerants:- The actual refrigerant charge is in accordance with the room size within which the refrigerant containing parts are installed;
- The ventilation machinery and outlets are operating adequately and are not obstructed;
- lf an indirect refrigerating circuit is being used, the secondary circuit shall be checked for the presence of refrigerant;
- Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that are illegible shall be corrected;
- Refrigeration pipe or components are installed in a position where they are unlikely to be exposed to any substance which may corrode refrigerant containing components, unless the components are constructed of materials which are inherently resistant to being corroded or are suitably protected against being so corroded.
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Checks to electrical devices
Repair and maintenance to electrical components shall include initial safety checks and component inspection procedures. lf a fault exists that could compromise safety, then no electrical supply shall be connected to the circuit until it is satisfactorily dealt with. lf the fault cannot be corrected immediately but it is necessary to continue operation, an adequate temporary solution shall be used. This shall be reported to the owner of the equipment so all parties are advised. lnitial safety checks shall include.- That capacitors are discharged: this shall be done in a safe manner to avoid possibility of sparking;
- That no live electrical components and wiring are exposed while charging, recovering or purging the system;
- That there is continuity of earth bonding
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Repairs to sealed components
During repairs to sealed components, all electrical supplies shall be disconnected from the equipment being worked upon prior to any removal of sealed covers, etc. lf it is absolutely necessary to have an electrical supply to equipment during servicing, then a permanently operating form of leak detection shall be located at the most critical point to warn of a potentially hazardous situation.Particular attention shall be paid to the following to ensure that by working on electrical components, the casings not altered in such a way that the level of protection is affected. This shall include damage to cables, excessive number of connections, terminals not made to original specification, damage to seals, incorrect fitting of glands, etc.- Ensure that the apparatus is mounted securely.
- Ensure that seals or sealing materials have not degraded to the point that they no longer serve the purpose of preventing the ingress of flammable atmospheres. Replacement parts shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
NOTE : The use of silicon sealant can inhibit the effectiveness of some
types of leak detection equipment.
intrinsically safe components do not have to be isolated prior to working on
them. Repair to intrinsically safe components Do not apply any permanent
inductive or capacitance loads to the circuit without ensuring that this will
not exceed the permissible voltage and current permitted for the equipment in
use. intrinsically safe components are the only types that can be worked on
while live in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. The test apparatus shall
beat the correct rating. Replace components only with parts specified by the
manufacturer. Other parts may result in the ignition of refrigerant in the
atmosphere from a leak.
Cabling
Check that cabling will not be subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure,
vibration, sharp edges or any other adverse environmental effects. The check
shall also take into account the effects of aging or continual vibration from
sources such as compressors or fans.
Detection of flammable refrigerants
Under no circumstances shall potential sources of ignition be used in the searching for or detection of refrigerant leaks. A halide torch (or any other detector using a naked flame) shall not be used.
Leak detection methods
The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for all refrigerant systems. Electronic leak detectors ya be used to detect refrigerant leaks but, in the case of flammable refrigerants, the sensitivity may not e adequate, or may need re-calibration.(Detection equipment shall be calibrated in a refrigerant-free area.) Ensure at the detector is not a potential source of ignition and is suitable for the refrigerant used. Leak erection equipment shall be set at a percentage of the LFL of the refrigerant and shall be calibrated tithe refrigerant employed, and the appropriate percentage of gas (25 % maximum) is confirmed detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants but the use of detergents containing charitableness be avoided as the Katharine may react with the refrigerant and corrode the copper pipe-work. If a leak is suspected, all naked flames hall be removed/extinguished. If a leakage of refrigerant is found which requires brazing, all of the refrigerant hall be recovered from the system, or isolated (by means of shut off valves) in a part of the system remote from he leak. For appliances obtaining flammable refrigerants, oxygen free nitrogen (OFN) shall then be purged through the system both before and during the brazing process. Removal and evacuation
When breaking into the refrigerant circuit to make repairs or for any other purpose conventional procedures shall be used. However, for flammable refrigerants it is important that best practice is followed since flammability is a consideration. The following procedure shall be adhered to:
- remove refrigerant;
- purge the circuit with inert gas; evacuate;
- purge again with inert gas;
- open the circuit by cutting or brazing.
The refrigerant charge shall be recovered into the correct recovery cylinders For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, the system shall be flushed with OFN to render the unit safe. This process may need to be repeated several times. Compressed air or oxygen shall not be used for purging refrigerant systems.
For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, flushing shall be achieved by breaking the vacuum in the system with OFN and continuing to fill until the working pressure is achieved, then venting to atmosphere, and finally pulling down to a vacuum. This process shall be repeated until no refrigerant is within the system. When the final OFN charge is used, the system shall be vented down to atmospheric pressure to enable work to take place. This operation is absolutely vital if brazing operations on the pipe-work are to take place. Ensure that the outlet for the vacuum pump is not close to any ignition sources and that ventilation is available.
Charging procedures
In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements shall be followed.
- Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging equipment Hoses or lines shall be as short as possible to minimise the amount of refrigerant contained in them.
- Cylinders shall be kept upright.
- Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with refrigerant.
- Label the system when charging is complete (if not already).
- Extreme care shall be taken not to overfill the refrigeration system.
Prior to recharging the system, it shall be pressure-tested with the appropriate purging gas. The system shall be leak-tested on completion of charging but prior to commissioning. A follow up leak test shall be carried out prior to leaving the site.
Decommissioning
Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is completely familiar with the equipment and all its detail. lt is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are recovered safely. Prior to the task being carried out, an oil and refrigerant sample shall be taken in case analysis is required prior to re-use of reclaimed refrigerant. lt is essential that electrical power is available before the task is commenced.
- Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
- Isolate system electrically.
- Before attempting the procedure, ensure that:
- mechanical handling equipment is available, if required, for handling refrigerant cylinders;
- all personal protective equipment is available and being used correctly; the recovery process is supervised at all times by a competent person;
- recovery equipment and cylinders conform to the appropriate standards.
- Pump down refrigerant system, if possible.
- lf a vacuum is not possible, make a manifold so that refrigerant can be removed from various parts of the system.
- Make sure that cylinder is situated on the scales before recovery takes place.
- Start the recovery machine and operate in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
- Do not overfill cylinders. (No more than 80 % volume liquid charge).
- Do not exceed the maximum working pressure of the cylinder, even temporarily.
- When the cylinders have been filled correctly and the process completed, make sure that the cylinders and the equipment are removed from site promptly and all isolation valves on the equipment are closed off.
- Recovered refrigerant shall not be charged into another refrigeration system unless it has been cleaned and checked
Labelling
Equipment shall be labelled stating that it has been de-commissioned and emptied of refrigerant. The label shall be dated and signed. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, ensure that there are labels on the equipment stating the equipment contains flammable refrigerant.
Recovery
When removing refrigerant from a system, either for servicing or decommissioning, it is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are removed safely.
When transferring refrigerant into cylinders, ensure that only appropriate refrigerant recovery cylinders are employed. Ensure that the correct number of cylinders for holding the total system charge are available. AII cylinders to be used are designated for the recovered refrigerant and labelled for that refrigerant (i.e. special cylinders for the recovery of refrigerant). Cylinders shall be complete with pressure-relief valve and assodated shut-off valves in good working order. Empty recovery cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery occurs.
The recovery equipment shall be in good working order with a set of instructions concerning the equipment that is at hand and shall be suitable for the recovery of all appropriate refrigerants including, when applicable, flammable refrigerants. In addition, a set of calibrated weighing scales shall be available and in good working order. Hoses shall be complete with leak-free disconnect couplings and in good condition. Before using the recovery machine, check that it is in satisfactory working order, has been properly maintained and that any associated electrical components are sealed to prevent ignition in the event of a refrigerant release. Consult manufacturer if in doubt.
The recovered refrigerant shall be returned to the refrigerant supplier in the correct recovery cylinder, and the relevant waste transfer note arranged. Do not mix refrigerants in recovery units and especially not in cylinders.
lf compressors or compressor oils are to be removed, ensure that they have been evacuated to an acceptable level to make certain that flammable refrigerant does not remain within the lubricant. The evacuation process shall be carried out prior to returning the compressor to the suppliers. Only electric heating to the compressor body shall be employed to accelerate this process. When oil is drained from a system, it shall be carried out safely.
References
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