Tommys Tips NonRefillable Refrigerant Cylinders Tom Schaefer Upstate

Tommy’s Tips • Non-Refillable Refrigerant Cylinders ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Non-Refillable Refrigerant Cylinders ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Air conditioning and refrigeration service technicians carry refrigerant cylinders in their service trucks every day. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

While these cylinders are relatively safe there are several hazards that need to be understood. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Service techs need to be aware of proper transportation procedures, storage of cylinders and correct procedures when using them to charge systems. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

One of the major concerns is TEMPERATURE! ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Most refrigerant cylinder labels advise that they should not exceed 120 – 130 degrees F. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Service techs have used different ways to warm up a cold cylinder: Warm blanket Torch Hot Water Hair Dryer ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

It is strongly recommended to NOT use a torch to heat a cylinder! ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

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Warm water is a good way to increase cylinder temperature. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Remember that the cylinder cannot exceed approx. 125 degrees F. Some commercial and residential locations may have hot water setting at greater than 125 degrees. 140° ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

If you are not sure, measure the temperature before putting the cylinder in it. 110° ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Another safety concern is that the pressure inside the cylinder is the same whether it has only a small amount of liquid or if it were full of refrigerant. 201 PSI Same pressure! Almost empty Almost full 70° ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Never leave “empty? ” cylinders on the roof or anywhere. Cylinders can rust and become weak and could burst with just a small quantity of refrigerant remaining. Any residual refrigerant should be recovered and then, with the valve open, puncture the cylinder and break off the valve handle. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010

Remember, refrigerant cylinders are to be respected for their potential to do harm to people and nearby objects. ©Tom Schaefer Upstate Systems 5/21/2010