Refrigerant recovery machines for HVAC allow technicians to recover refrigerant at a much faster rate, allowing them to complete jobs more efficiently. These machines come in several different sizes to meet the needs of any technician. They work by removing liquid from the system and transferring it to a recovery tank in a vacuum state. This allows the system to be recharged without a refrigerant change. The process is made even more efficient by using a high-speed evacuation pump that moves the liquid to the recovery tank in seconds.
When purchasing a refrigerant recovery machine, it is important to look for one with the right power and pressure rating to match your needs. Small, portable recovery machines are ideal for smaller systems and residential work, while larger ones can handle larger commercial systems. It is also important to ensure that the recovery machine has a high-quality compressor that will not damage the refrigerant. In addition, it is recommended to purchase a recovery machine with a warranty that is longer than the standard 90-day warranty.
The first step in preparing to use your refrigerant recovery machine is to make sure that the system you are servicing is turned off and all valves are closed. It is also recommended to purge the hoses and recovery cylinder of non-condensables. Then, connect the 1/4-in. utility hose on the manifold to the suction port of the recovery machine and the hose from the low-side port of the manifold to the discharge port. It is important to ensure that the hoses are properly connected, so the machine can transfer liquid quickly and easily. During this stage, you will also need to make sure that the system switch and selector valve on your manifold are set to “off.”
After you connect the hoses and turn on the recovery machine, it is important to watch the gauges closely. When the manifold gauges reach 0 psi, you will have a full-vacuum in your recovery tank and can shut down the machine. Make sure you are not filling your recovery cylinder beyond 80 percent of capacity, as it can cause an overflow.
There are two ways to perform a recovery with your machine: push-pull or direct vapour. The push-pull method quickly removes the liquid from the system, but requires changing hose connections between liquid and vapor. It is the fastest method if you are working with a large amount of liquid refrigerant.
If you choose to use the push-pull method, you should have a spare hose and a recovery cylinder with at least five pounds of refrigerant. You should also use a sight glass rated for the pressure of the refrigerant you are using.
Inficon is another brand that offers powerful refrigerant recovery machines for HVAC. This model features a 1 HP power rating that is higher than the other options mentioned in this article, and it is also backed by a 3-year long warranty. It is best to go with a reliable brand when buying your equipment. This will ensure that your machine lasts a long time and is reliable in the field. Refrigerant recovery machines for HVAC