Argo Lari Portable Air Conditioner

Appliance Information

This appliance is filled with flammable gas R290.

Before installing and using the appliance, read the owner manual. Before installing the appliance, read the installation manual. Any repairs you need, contact the nearest authorized Service Centre and strictly follow the manufacturer's Service Manual.

The Refrigerant R290

To realize the function of the air conditioner unit, a special refrigerant circulates in the system. The refrigerant is R290, with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3. This refrigerant is flammable and odorless. It can lead to explosions under certain conditions, however, its flammability is very low and it can be ignited only by fire.

Compared to other common refrigerants, R290 is a non-polluting refrigerant with no harm to the ozone layer and no effect on the greenhouse effect. R290 has very good thermodynamic features which lead to high energy efficiency. The units therefore need less filling.

Warning:

• Do not try to accelerate the defrosting process or clean the appliance in ways other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Should repair be necessary, contact your nearest authorized Service Centre. Repairs carried out by unqualified personnel may be dangerous.
• The appliance must be stored in a room that does not have any continuously operating ignition sources (e.g., open flames, operating gas appliances, or operating electric heaters).
• Do not pierce or burn.
• The appliance must be installed, used, and stored in a room with a floor area larger than 7 m².
• For repairs, strictly follow manufacturer's instructions only for appliances filled with R290 flammable gas. Be aware that refrigerants do not have any odor.

[!] Flammable Gas Symbol

[?] Read Manual Symbol

[?] Service Manual Symbol

GENERAL OPERATING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• This appliance is a local air conditioner designed for domestic use.
• Only use this air-conditioner as described in this manual.
• Ensure that the required voltage and frequency (220-240V/50 Hz) match the available power source.
• Fuse style: 5ET or SMT 250V. The electricity passing through the fuse cannot be above 3.15A.
• This appliance can be used by children aged 8 years and above and people with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
• Children shall not play with the appliance.
• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
• Ensure that the electricity system is able to deliver the operating current required by the air conditioner, in addition to that normally absorbed by other appliances (household appliances, lighting system, etc.). Refer to the maximum power input data indicated on the air conditioner's data plate.
• Connection to the electricity grid must take place in accordance with current installation standards.
• Ensure that the automatic switches and system protection valves can withstand a start-up current of 6A (normally for less than 1 second).
• The system socket must always be fitted with an efficient earth connection.
• Make sure that the plug is fully inserted. Do not use multiple adapters. Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Make sure that the plug is clean.
• Do not use the plug as a means by which to start/stop the air conditioner; use the ON/OFF button on the remote control or on the control panel.
• Do not install the air conditioner in rooms where it may receive water splashes (e.g., laundry rooms).
• Before moving or cleaning the device, ensure that it is unplugged from the socket.
• Do not move the air conditioner while it is operating; first turn the appliance off, check for any condensate build-up and empty it if necessary.
• To turn the appliance off, set the remote control to OFF and remove the plug from the socket. Pull on the plug only. Do not pull the cord.
• Do not use the appliance if the cord or plug are damaged. If the power supply cable is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its technical assistance service or by a person with similar qualifications to prevent any risk.
• The appliance must be installed in compliance with national wiring regulations.
• Keep the unit away from fire, possible fire sources, inflammable or explosive objects.
• Do not leave the unit unattended while it is operating; turn the unit off and unplug it.
• If a drainage hose is used, the ambient temperature must not be lower than 0°C. It can cause water leakage to the air conditioner.
• Do not splash or pour water on the air conditioner.

PRECAUTION!

• Do not insert any objects into the air conditioner: this is very dangerous as the fan turns at high speed.
• Ensure that air circulates freely around the unit. Do not cover the air intake and delivery grilles with drapes or any other means.

WARNING!

• The air conditioner must be positioned at least 50 cm from the wall or any other obstacles, on a flat and stable surface to avoid water leaks.
• The air conditioner is fitted with a system for protecting the compressor from overload. This means that the compressor only starts 3 minutes after its previous stoppage.
• Please wait at least 3 minutes before starting the unit. This helps prevent the compressor from being damaged.

WARNING!

• In the event of an anomaly, switch the appliance off and unplug it from the socket. Do not dismantle or attempt to repair or modify the product. In the event of a malfunction, contact the service centre directly.
• Do not expose the air conditioner to direct sunlight, as the colour of the materials may change; moreover, the appliance may overheat causing the protection mechanism to intervene and switch the appliance off.
• Do not use insecticides, oils, detergents, or spray paints near the appliance; do not use aggressive chemical detergents to clean the casing, as this may damage the finish and colour.
• Close all open windows to maximize air conditioning efficiency.

The manufacturer will not be held liable if safety and accident prevention rules are not observed.

Appliance Components

1. Control Panel

2. Air Outlet with Adjustable Louver

3. Handle

4. Air Inlet with Air Filter

5. Caster

6. Hole for Continuous Condensate Drainage (in Cooling Mode)

7. Air Exhaust

Operating Limits (Internal Temperature)

• Cooling: 7°C DB / 35°C DB
• Dehumidification: 17°C DB / 35°C DB
• Cooling mode room temperature adjustment range: 16°C DB / 32°C DB

PRE-OPERATING CHECKS AND OPERATIONS

The following space must be maintained to ensure the operating efficiency of the portable air conditioner.

[Diagram showing required clearances around the unit: 50 cm from walls and obstacles.]

Open the packaging and pull out the box. Remove the product and the other elements supplied:

• Infrared remote control
• Flexible pipe inclusive of fitting for unit and end fitting for window
• Type-AAA - LR03 - 1.5 V batteries for remote control (Not provided)
• Round fitting for window unit, to be positioned between the end of the tube and the window unit itself
• Window unit kit with plug.

Position the product vertically on a flat and stable surface, as close as possible to a window and at least 50 cm from walls or other nearby obstacles.

USE WITH END FITTING FOR WINDOW

1. Stretch the flexible hose sufficiently so that it reaches the outside (max 1.5 m) and hook it to the rear part of the air conditioner. [Diagram showing hose attachment to the unit.]
2. Open the window and lock one of the two leaves with the handle. Rest the terminal connection on the fixed leaf, bring the other leaf of the window close. [Diagram showing window setup with the hose fitting.]
3. Open the window and lock one of the two leaves with the handle. Rest the terminal connection on the fixed leaf, bring the other leaf of the window close. [Diagram showing window setup with the hose fitting.]

USE WITH WINDOW UNIT KIT

1. To make the hole in the glass, it is advisable to take the porthole kit accessory to the glazier. [Diagram showing a window with a hole for the fitting.]
2. Insert the round fitting into the retractable flexible pipe and insert the latter with its round fitting into the window unit without the plug. [Diagram showing fitting insertion into the pipe.]
3. Insert the round fitting onto the flexible pipe. [Diagram showing fitting insertion.]
4. Insert the round fitting onto the flexible pipe. [Diagram showing fitting insertion.]
5. Insert the flexible pipe thus mounted into the rear of the air conditioner.

Connect the power cord to a suitable electric socket (220-240 V). Insert the supplied batteries into the remote control and make sure the poles match. Select the desired operating mode from the remote control.

Avoid tight bends or folds in the hose. [Diagram showing a kinked hose with a cross-out symbol.]

If the air conditioner is not used for prolonged periods, disconnect the pipe and plug the window unit.

HOW TO USE THE APPLIANCE

This appliance can be used for cooling, dehumidifying, and ventilation purposes.

Before using the appliance, leave it standing erect for at least two hours.

When switching between modes, the fan continues to turn, but the compressor stops; the compressor will re-start after 3 minutes. This delay protects the compressor from potential damage.

This appliance is equipped with an automatic defrosting system. When the appliance starts defrosting, the Power LED flashes on the control panel. In cooling and dehumidification mode, the compressor stops for 10 minutes, after which the appliance continues to operate regularly.

[Diagram showing the unit with a drainage tube connected.]

The DRAINAGE TUBE MUST BE CONNECTED to the appliance AT ALL TIMES, except when the appliance is used in dehumidification mode only, in which case the appliance should be left to discharge directly into the room for maximum efficiency (see the "Dehumidification Mode" paragraph).

Clean the air filters under the easily removable rear grille regularly to keep the air conditioner working efficiently.

OPERATING MODES

1. COOLING MODE (COOL)

• The "Cool" LED on the control panel will turn on.
• The temperature can be adjusted between 16°C and 32°C.
• In this mode, each time the ON/OFF button is pressed, the unit switches off. The appliance saves the temperature setting and retains it when switched on again.
• In this mode, the fan speed can be adjusted, and the Timer and SLEEP functions can be set.
• For more silent operation, run the fan at low speed.

2. DEHUMIDIFICATION MODE (DRY)

• Press the MODE button to select the dehumidification mode.
• The temperature is controlled by the electronic board and cannot be adjusted.
• In this mode, each time the ON/OFF button is pressed, the unit switches off. The appliance saves the settings and retains them when switched on again.
• The fan speed is set to low and cannot be adjusted.

NOTE: The air conditioner does not cool the room when operating as a dehumidifier.

When the appliance is used as a dehumidifier, the flexible pipe must not be connected. [Diagram showing the unit with the exhaust hose disconnected.]

For maximum dehumidification efficiency, leave the rear discharge attachment free to discharge directly into the environment. The dehumidification mode is recommended during autumn and winter. If used during summer, it is best to leave the flexible pipe attached so that the hot air is discharged towards the outside rather than into the room. During dehumidification, continuous drainage should be implemented (see the next chapter, "HOW TO ELIMINATE CONDENSATE").

3. FAN MODE (FAN)

• Press the MODE button to select ventilation until the corresponding icon appears.
• In this mode, the fan speed can be adjusted.
• The temperature cannot be adjusted.

HOW TO ELIMINATE CONDENSATE

Manual drainage

[Diagram showing manual condensate drainage from the unit.]

Cooling

This appliance automatically vaporizes condensate in the cooling mode. Ensure that when the unit is operating in cooling mode, the rubber caps closing the drainage holes on the rear of the appliance are properly positioned.

When the air conditioner operates in cooling mode, there is no need for continuous condensate drainage; only in specific weather conditions with very high air humidity levels may water deposit inside the unit. When the container is full, the display shows error code "Ft" and blocks the appliance's operation. To empty the container, switch the air conditioner off and unplug it. Remove the cap from the rear drainage hole and direct it over a normal drain. Ensure that the tube is not twisted or bent. The tube must slope downwards. Re-close the drainage hole with the cap and resume use of the air conditioner.

Continuous drainage

[Diagram showing continuous condensate drainage setup.]

Dehumidification

WARNING!

When using the air conditioner in dehumidification mode, it is advisable to always arrange for continuous drainage to maximize dehumidification efficiency. Connect one end of the PVC pipe (not provided) to the upper discharge hole and place the other end above a drain.

Remote Control Operation

1. Slide the cover open in the direction indicated by the arrow. [Diagram showing remote control cover being opened.]
2. Insert alkaline batteries (type AAA, LR03/1.5 V - not provided) compliant with Battery Directive no. 2006/66/EC and amendments Directive 2013/56/EC into the remote control and make sure the poles match. [Diagram showing battery insertion.]
3. Put the cover back on.
4. Point the remote control towards the receiver on the air conditioner.
5. The remote control should be positioned within 6 meters from the receiver.
6. There must be no obstacles between the remote control and the receiver.
7. Do not drop or throw the remote control.
8. Do not leave the remote control under strong sunlight or near heating devices and other sources of heat.
9. Remove the batteries from the remote control when it is not used for a long time.
10. If no sound is heard and the transmission symbol on the display does not flash, the batteries must be replaced.
11. If the system resets when the remote control button is pressed, the electrical signal is poor and the batteries must be replaced.
12. Flat batteries must be disposed of correctly.

N.B.: The image depicts a general remote control, which contains nearly all the function keys. These may be of a slightly different material (depending on the model).

INFORMATION FOR THE CORRECT DISPOSAL OF BATTERIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH EUROPEAN DIRECTIVE 2006/66/EC and amendments Directive 2013/56/EC

Replace batteries when they are depleted. At the end of their life, batteries must be disposed of separately from unsorted waste. They must be taken to designated recycling centres or returned to a retailer providing this service. Separate disposal of batteries prevents potential negative effects on the environment and human health due to inadequate disposal, and also allows for the recovery and recycling of their constituent materials, resulting in significant savings in terms of energy and resources. The separate disposal obligation is underlined by the crossed-out dustbin symbol appearing on the battery. Illegal disposal of the product by the user implies administrative sanctions applied as per current regulations.

CONTROL PANEL

[Diagram of the remote control with numbered buttons and their functions labeled.]

Buttons on Control Panel:

1. POWER BUTTON
2. MODE BUTTON
3. SPEED BUTTON
4. DOWN BUTTON
5. UP BUTTON
6. TIMER BUTTON
7. SLEEP BUTTON
8. CHILD LOCK BUTTON

DETAIL OF DISPLAY ON CONTROL PANEL

[Diagram of the remote control display showing various icons and indicators.]

(shows the temperature)

(1) POWER BUTTON

Press this button to switch the unit on or off.

(2) MODE BUTTON:

When the unit is on, press this button to choose the desired mode among: FAN, DEHUMIDIFYING, and COOLING. The corresponding LEDs will light up according to your selection.

(3) SPEED BUTTON

In the cooling mode, press this button to adjust the ventilation speed to low (Low) or high (High). In dehumidifying mode, it is not possible to select the ventilation speed; therefore, the fan will forcefully choose the low fan speed.

(4) DOWN BUTTON

Press this button to adjust the temperature and set the time.

(5) UP BUTTON

Press this button to adjust the temperature and set the time.

(6) TIMER BUTTON

1. When the air conditioner is off, press "TIMER" to set when to switch the unit on. Press "UP" or "DOWN" to set the time, and press "TIMER" again to confirm.
2. When the air conditioner is on, press "TIMER" to set when to switch the unit off. Press "UP" or "DOWN" to set the time, and press "TIMER" again to confirm.
3. To deactivate the Timer function, press the UP and DOWN buttons repeatedly until the display shows "00".
4. Pressing the POWER button deactivates the timer function.
5. The timer time selection interval is 0-24 hours.

(7) SLEEP BUTTON

In cooling mode, press the button to activate the Sleep function. The unit will then operate silently and save energy. After 1 hour of operation, the temperature increases by 1°C; after the second hour, the temperature increases again by 1°C.

Note: The Sleep function is not available in dehumidification or ventilation mode, but only in cooling.

(8) CHILD LOCK BUTTON

Press this key to turn the control panel lock function on or off.

TEMPERATURE AND ERROR DISPLAY

The display will show the temperature set in cooling mode, while if the unit is operating in dehumidification, the display will show the room temperature.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

WARNING!

Before carrying out any cleaning or maintenance operations, unplug the appliance.

1. Cleaning the air filters

[Diagram showing how to remove and clean air filters.]

The air filters must be checked at least once every two weeks of use. Operating the appliance with dirty or clogged filters will decrease the air conditioner's efficiency and may cause serious problems.

To remove the upper filter, unhook the grill by grabbing it from both sides and pulling it towards you; to remove the lower grille, unhook it using the special tabs. Filters are integrated into their respective grids.

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the dust from the filters. Should this not suffice, wash the filters with lukewarm water and some neutral detergent (if necessary), then rinse them thoroughly in cold water and leave them to dry in air before putting them back in place.

2. Cleaning the casing.

Use a damp and soft cloth to clean the outer surface of the appliance. Do not use excessively hot water, solvents, petrol, or other aggressive chemical compounds, talcum powder, or brushes: these may damage the surface or colour of the casing. Remove any stains using lukewarm water with a little neutral detergent. Do not pour water onto the air conditioner to clean it, as this may damage its internal components or cause a short-circuit.

3. Storage.

When the air conditioner is not expected to be used for a long time, clean the filters before storing it away. Keep the appliance in a vertical position at all times. Do not place heavy objects on top of the air conditioner. It is advisable to protect the appliance with a plastic sheet.

4. Transport.

Transport the air conditioner in the vertical position. Should this not be possible, rest it on its right-hand side; when the appliance reaches its final destination, place it immediately in the vertical position and wait at least 4 hours before operating it in cooling mode.

5. For complete safety, regularly check the condition of the power cord; should it be damaged as a result of wear, contact the Service Centre to replace it.

TIPS FOR MAXIMISING COMFORT AND MINIMISING CONSUMPTION

CHECK that:

• the unit intake and delivery grilles are always free;
• the air filters are always clean; a dirty filter will decrease the passage of air and reduce the unit's performance;
• all doors and windows are closed to avoid infiltration of unconditioned air;
• the flexible pipe is correctly positioned, without tight bends or curves;
• the room temperature is above 7°C for the cooling mode, and above 17°C for the dehumidifying mode.

REGULATION (EU) No. 517/2014 - F-GAS

The unit contains R290, a natural greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) = 3. Kg 0.13 = 0.00039 Tons CO₂ equiv. Do not release R290 into the atmosphere.

INFORMATION FOR THE CORRECT DISPOSAL OF THE PRODUCT IN ACCORDANCE WITH EUROPEAN DIRECTIVE 2012/19/EU

This appliance may not be scrapped with domestic waste at the end of its life cycle. We call your attention to the crucial role played by the consumer in the re-use, recycling, and other forms of recovery of such waste. The appliance must be scrapped by a sorted waste disposal centre or by returning it to the retailer (no charge is levied for this service) when you purchase a new equivalent appliance. Sorted disposal of electric and electronic equipment prevents the negative effects on the environment and human health resulting from improper scrapping, and also allows the materials from which it is made to be recovered and recycled, with significant savings in terms of energy and resources. The sorted disposal requirement is indicated by the crossed waste bin label affixed to the appliance.

Specialist's Manual

Aptitude Requirement for Maintenance Man (Repairs should be done only by specialists)

1. Any person involved in working on or breaking into a refrigerant circuit should hold a current valid certificate from an industry-accredited assessment authority, which authorizes their competence to handle refrigerants safely in accordance with an industry-recognized assessment specification.
2. Servicing shall only be performed as recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Maintenance and repair requiring the assistance of other skilled personnel shall be carried out under the supervision of the person competent in the use of flammable refrigerants.

Safety Preparation Work

The maximum refrigerant charge amount is shown in the following table (Note: Please refer to the nameplate for the charging quantity of R290).

Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimized. For repair to the refrigerating system, the following precautions shall be complied with prior to conducting work on the system:

• Work procedure: Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure to minimize the risk of a flammable gas or vapor being present while the work is being performed.
• General work area: All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature of work being carried out. Work in confined spaces shall be avoided. The area around the workspace shall be sectioned off. Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made safe by control of flammable material.
• Checking for presence of refrigerant: The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work to ensure the technician is aware of potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with all applicable refrigerants, i.e., non-sparking, adequately sealed, or intrinsically safe.
• Presence of fire extinguisher: If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts, appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
• No ignition sources: No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing any pipe work shall use any sources of ignition in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of fire or explosion. All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of installation, repairing, removing, and disposal, during which refrigerant can possibly be released to the surrounding space. Prior to work taking place, the area around the equipment is to be surveyed to make sure that there are no flammable hazards or ignition risks. "No Smoking" signs shall be displayed.
• Ventilated area: Ensure that the area is in the open or that it is adequately ventilated before breaking into the system or conducting any hot work. A degree of ventilation shall continue during the period that the work is carried out. The ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably expel it externally into the atmosphere.
• Checks to the refrigeration equipment: Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the purpose and the correct specification. At all times, the manufacturer's maintenance and service guidelines shall be followed. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer's technical department for assistance. The following checks shall be applied to installations using flammable refrigerants:
  • The actual refrigerant charge is in accordance with the room size within which the refrigerant containing parts are installed.
  • The ventilation machinery and outlets are operating adequately and are not obstructed.
  • If an indirect refrigerating circuit is being used, the secondary circuit shall be checked for the presence of refrigerant.
  • Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that are illegible shall be corrected.
  • Refrigeration pipe or components are installed in a position where they are unlikely to be exposed to any substance which may corrode refrigerant containing components, unless the components are constructed of materials which are inherently resistant to being corroded or are suitably protected against being so corroded.
• Checks to electrical devices: Repair and maintenance to electrical components shall include initial safety checks and component inspection procedures. If a fault exists that could compromise safety, then no electrical supply shall be connected to the circuit until it is satisfactorily dealt with. If the fault cannot be corrected immediately but it is necessary to continue operation, an adequate temporary solution shall be used. This shall be reported to the owner of the equipment so all parties are advised. Initial safety checks shall include:
  • That capacitors are discharged: this shall be done in a safe manner to avoid the possibility of sparking.
  • That no live electrical components and wiring are exposed while charging, recovering, or purging the system.
  • That there is continuity of earth bonding.
• Repairs to sealed components: During repairs to sealed components, all electrical supplies shall be disconnected from the equipment being worked upon prior to any removal of sealed covers, etc. If it is absolutely necessary to have an electrical supply to equipment during servicing, then a permanently operating form of leak detection shall be located at the most critical point to warn of a potentially hazardous situation. Particular attention shall be paid to the following to ensure that by working on electrical components, the casing is not altered in such a way that the level of protection is affected. This shall include damage to cables, excessive number of connections, terminals not made to original specification, damage to seals, incorrect fitting of glands, etc. Ensure that the apparatus is mounted securely. Ensure that seals or sealing materials have not degraded to the point that they no longer serve the purpose of preventing the ingress of flammable atmospheres. Replacement parts shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. NOTE: The use of silicone sealant can inhibit the effectiveness of some types of leak detection equipment. Intrinsically safe components do not have to be isolated prior to working on them.
• Repair to intrinsically safe components: Do not apply any permanent inductive or capacitance loads to the circuit without ensuring that this will not exceed the permissible voltage and current permitted for the equipment in use. Intrinsically safe components are the only types that can be worked on while live in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. The test apparatus shall be of the correct rating. Replace components only with parts specified by the manufacturer. Other parts may result in the ignition of refrigerant in the atmosphere from a leak.

Cabling

Check that cabling will not be subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure, vibration, sharp edges, or any other adverse environmental effects. The check shall also take into account the effects of aging or continual vibration from sources such as compressors or fans.

Detection of flammable refrigerants

Under no circumstances shall potential sources of ignition be used in the searching for or detection of refrigerant leaks. A halide torch (or any other detector using a naked flame) shall not be used.

Leak detection methods

The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for all refrigerant systems:

• Electronic leak detectors may be used to detect refrigerant leaks, but in the case of flammable refrigerants, the sensitivity may not be adequate or may need re-calibration. (Detection equipment shall be calibrated in a refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the detector is not a potential source of ignition and is suitable for the refrigerant used.
• Leak detection equipment shall be set at a percentage of the LFL of the refrigerant and shall be calibrated to the refrigerant employed, and the appropriate percentage of gas (25% maximum) is confirmed.
• Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants, but the use of detergents containing chlorine shall be avoided, as the chlorine may react with the refrigerant and corrode the copper pipe-work. If a leak is suspected, all naked flames shall be removed/extinguished.

If a leak requiring brazing is found, all of the refrigerant shall be recovered from the system or isolated (by means of shut-off valves) in a part of the system remote from the leak. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, oxygen-free nitrogen (OFN) shall then be purged through the system both before and during the brazing process.

Removal and evacuation

When breaking into the refrigerant circuit to make repairs or for any other purpose, conventional procedures shall be used. However, for flammable refrigerants, it is important that best practice is followed, since flammability is a consideration. The following procedure shall be adhered to:

• Remove refrigerant.
• Purge the circuit with inert gas. Evacuate.
• Purge again with inert gas.
• Open the circuit by cutting or brazing.

The refrigerant charge shall be recovered into the correct recovery cylinders. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, the system shall be flushed with OFN to render the unit safe. This process may need to be repeated several times. Compressed air or oxygen shall not be used for purging refrigerant systems. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, flushing shall be achieved by breaking the vacuum in the system with OFN and continuing to fill until the working pressure is achieved, then venting to atmosphere, and finally pulling down to a vacuum. This process shall be repeated until no refrigerant is within the system. When the final OFN charge is used, the system shall be vented down to atmospheric pressure to enable work to take place. This operation is absolutely vital if brazing operations on the pipe-work are to take place. Ensure that the outlet for the vacuum pump is not close to any ignition sources and that ventilation is available.

Charging procedures

In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements shall be followed:

• Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging equipment. Hoses or lines shall be as short as possible to minimize the amount of refrigerant contained in them.
• Cylinders shall be kept upright.
• Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with refrigerant.
• Label the system when charging is complete (if not already).
• Extreme care shall be taken not to overfill the refrigeration system.

Prior to recharging the system, it shall be pressure-tested with the appropriate purging gas. The system shall be leak-tested on completion of charging but prior to commissioning. A follow-up leak test shall be carried out prior to leaving the site.

Decommissioning

Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is completely familiar with the equipment and all its details. It is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are recovered safely. Prior to the task being carried out, an oil and refrigerant sample shall be taken in case analysis is required prior to re-use of reclaimed refrigerant. It is essential that electrical power is available before the task is commenced.

1. Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
2. Isolate system electrically.
3. Before attempting the procedure, ensure that:
   • Mechanical handling equipment is available, if required, for handling refrigerant cylinders.
   • All personal protective equipment is available and being used correctly.
   • The recovery process is supervised at all times by a competent person.
   • Recovery equipment and cylinders conform to the appropriate standards.
4. Pump down refrigerant system, if possible.
5. If a vacuum is not possible, make a manifold so that refrigerant can be removed from various parts of the system.
6. Make sure that the cylinder is situated on the scales before recovery takes place.
7. Start the recovery machine and operate in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not overfill cylinders. (No more than 80% volume liquid charge).
9. Do not exceed the maximum working pressure of the cylinder, even temporarily.
10. When the cylinders have been filled correctly and the process completed, make sure that the cylinders and the equipment are removed from site promptly and all isolation valves on the equipment are closed off.
11. Recovered refrigerant shall not be charged into another refrigeration system unless it has been cleaned and checked.

Labelling: Equipment shall be labelled stating that it has been decommissioned and emptied of refrigerant. The label shall be dated and signed. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, ensure that there are labels on the equipment stating the equipment contains flammable refrigerant.

Recovery

When removing refrigerant from a system, either for servicing or decommissioning, it is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are removed safely. When transferring refrigerant into cylinders, ensure that only appropriate refrigerant recovery cylinders are employed. Ensure that the correct number of cylinders for holding the total system charge are available. All cylinders to be used are designated for the recovered refrigerant and labelled for that refrigerant (i.e., special cylinders for the recovery of refrigerant). Cylinders shall be complete with pressure-relief valve and associated shut-off valves in good working order. Empty recovery cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery occurs.

The recovery equipment shall be in good working order with a set of instructions concerning the equipment that is at hand and shall be suitable for the recovery of all appropriate refrigerants including, when applicable, flammable refrigerants. In addition, a set of calibrated weighing scales shall be available and in good working order. Hoses shall be complete with leak-free disconnect couplings and in good condition. Before using the recovery machine, check that it is in satisfactory working order, has been properly maintained, and that any associated electrical components are sealed to prevent ignition in the event of a refrigerant release. Consult manufacturer if in doubt.

The recovered refrigerant shall be returned to the refrigerant supplier in the correct recovery cylinder, and the relevant waste transfer note arranged. Do not mix refrigerants in recovery units and especially not in cylinders. If compressors or compressor oils are to be removed, ensure that they have been evacuated to an acceptable level to make certain that flammable refrigerant does not remain within the lubricant. The evacuation process shall be carried out prior to returning the compressor to the suppliers. Only electric heating to the compressor body shall be employed to accelerate this process. When oil is drained from a system, it shall be carried out safely.