How to Install a Refrigerant Leak Detector

Open the detector’s packaging and install the batteries in the unit’s backside by popping the lock-tab and sliding off the cover. Install four AA batteries as indicated by the connectors and slide the cover back over the battery compartment. Make note of the LED light on the unit’s front facing; as battery power wanes the light will turn red, so make a mental note to change the batteries as indicated by this light.

Press the ON button to power up the detector, which causes the unit to flash. Hold the ON button for approximately one and half minutes to ready it and release once the indicator flashes. Press the button for a second time and hold it for a count of five to reset the base concentration levels.

Click the indicator switch to set the sensitivity level to its highest setting and check the detector’s ability by opening the leak check bottle cover and moving the tube closer to the nozzle. The unit’s indicator should sound off. Move the tube to and from the nozzle a few more times to ensure the unit is in prime working condition.

Hold the unit as close to the area of the suspected leak as you can with the nozzle positioned around ¼ inch of the point of the leak. Move the unit slowly around the area, as if you were using a metal detector, for example. Should the unit detect a leak, an alarm will sound to pinpoint the leak source. If the leak is larger than expected, set the unit to its lowest setting to decrease sensitivity; the highest setting may cause the unit to temporarily overload.