Leak testing of an air cooled condenser should be performed while the system is charged with refrigerant.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not specified
• D. Requires purge

Answer: (A)

Leak testing needs to reveal real leaks under the conditions the equipment will operate. When the system is charged with refrigerant, the refrigerant is present in the lines and components, so any joint, brazed connection, or coil defect will allow refrigerant to escape and become detectable. Testing with the system charged simulates normal operating pressures and temperatures, making leaks visible with appropriate methods (soap bubbles, electronic leak detector, etc.). If you tested with the system evacuated or uncharged, small leaks might not be detectable because there’s no refrigerant under pressure to escape. Always follow the prescribed test pressure and safety procedures to avoid over-pressurizing or venting refrigerant improperly.