Air Conditioner UV Dye, Nitrogen, and More: 3 Ways to Detect AC Leaks

Read on to learn about different methods of leak detection and why you should consider adding air conditioner UV dye to your toolkit.

Finding holes in AC/R systems can be a challenge. Frozen units are often malfunctioning due to a loss of refrigerant, and finding all leaks in the system is an essential part of making lasting repairs. From the age-old soap bubble test to modern electronic leak detectors, there are plenty of methods that one can use to detect leaks in HVAC units. Read on to learn about different methods of leak detection and why you should consider adding air conditioner UV dye to your toolkit.

Nitrogen Test

One method of finding holes in a system is to use compressed nitrogen gas. In this test, an AC/R professional will remove all refrigerant from the unit, replace the gas with compressed nitrogen, and listen for any sounds. Because nitrogen is held under greater pressure than the coolant, leaks create an audible hissing or whooshing sound as it exits the system. While some folks prefer this method, it can be expensive. Also, many technicians prefer to use an external air conditioner UV dye in addition to this method.

Electronic Leak Detectors

Electronic leak detectors or “sniffers” are tools that detect specific refrigerants. These portable detectors often provide the most cost-effective test; however, they can also be inaccurate. Electronic leak detectors must be positioned on any surface that may have a leak to scan it, which can be incredibly challenging in tight quarters.

Air Conditioner UV Dye: A Better Alternative

Using air conditioner UV dye to detect holes in a system is a cost-effective and accurate way to find leaks, and Cool Air Products has two tools available to make leak detection easy. Best Bubbles Fluo is a spray that fluoresces when exposed to UV light. Like the old reliable bubble test, Best Bubbles Fluo clings to coils and creates a bubble at the site of any leaks. Unlike the standard bubble test, Best Bubbles Fluo fluoresces for easy detection, comes pre-mixed in a convenient applicator spray bottle, and can be easily removed with our Brilliant Remover.

For professionals who prefer internal HVAC repair products, we offer Brilliant, an injectable UV dye that fluoresces at the site of any leaks and is compatible with all refrigerant gases. Like Best Bubbles Fluo, Brilliant residue can be easily removed with Brilliant Remover to prevent future false-positives. Air conditioner UV dye makes leak detection easy. With Cool Air’s cost-effective, portable, and accurate detection products, you can track down holes quickly and get started on making repairs.

HVAC Repair Products That You Can Trust to Get the Job Done Right

Cool Air Products manufactures high-quality HVAC repair products that are designed with HVAC and AC/R professionals in mind. We work with wholesalers around the country to distribute quality repair materials that are 100% non-toxic, eco-friendly, and safe for the user.

Cool Air’s founders are professionals with over 50 years of experience in HVAC, plumbing, and wholesale distribution. We offer AC/R specialty chemicals, leak sealants, performance chemicals, heat absorption products, and more, all using the latest technology available on the market.

Contact Cool Air Products online or by phone at (443)325-7202 to learn more about our products. Be sure to visit our website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn!