Refrigerant Leak Repairs
Leaks don’t just cost you comfort—they cost you money and efficiency. At Endeavor Heating and Cooling, we take a data-driven approach with tools like measureQuick®, UV dye testing, and nitrogen pressure to pinpoint and permanently eliminate refrigerant leaks.
Our Step-by-Step Approach
Step 1: System Assessment
We begin with a full inspection of the system, refrigerant pressures, performance symptoms, and service history to determine the likelihood and location of a leak.
Step 2: Pressure Testing
We use nitrogen to pressurize the system and monitor for pressure drop. Duration depends on system size and condition—anywhere from 45 minutes to 24 hours.
Step 3: Leak Detection
Using a combination of electronic sniffers, bubble spray, and UV dye if necessary, we locate leaks with accuracy—even in tight or concealed areas.
Step 4: Optional Zone Isolation
For multi-zone systems such as mini splits, we may recommend isolating and pressurizing line sets individually to pinpoint which zone is leaking. This is especially helpful if access is limited or system charge is large.
Step 5: Leak Repair
We’ll make the necessary repair, whether it's a flare fitting, Schrader valve, or brazed copper joint. Repairs are sealed, torqued, and protected to manufacturer standards.
Step 6: Vacuum & Recharge
Once confirmed leak-free, we pull a deep vacuum to remove air and moisture, then recharge the system per factory specifications. Final testing is performed using measureQuick® for full performance verification.
What We Check
Leaks at joints, connectors, flares
Hidden or aging evaporator leaks
Schrader valves, caps, seals
Tells us where refrigerant escaped
UV exposure, rodents, deterioration
Why This Matters
Refrigerants like R-22, R-410A, R-32, and R-454B are regulated chemicals. According to EPA Section 608, it's illegal to knowingly release these into the atmosphere during service. At Endeavor Heating and Cooling, we follow strict recovery and testing protocols to ensure all work is environmentally responsible—and fully compliant with federal law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you just top off the refrigerant?
It’s a temporary fix. If the leak remains, refrigerant will continue to escape, which puts stress on your system and shortens compressor life. We recommend proper leak detection and repair every time.
What happens if my refrigerant lines are inside a wall?
We use UV dye and high-accuracy detection tools. If piping is inaccessible, we offer rerouting options or isolated zone repairs, depending on your system configuration.
How do you account for outdoor temperature changes during testing?
We use a temperature-compensated pressure calculator to track pressure changes based on ambient temperatures. This ensures your leak test results are accurate—no guesswork.
How long does pressure testing take?
It depends on the system size and severity of the issue. Most standard systems require a minimum of 45 minutes. Multi-zone or high-repair-history systems may require 24-hour testing for complete certainty.
Can I get this covered under a maintenance plan?
Yes. Our Total Comfort Plan includes discounts on diagnostics and repairs, priority service, and enhanced system reporting.