Argo Class WF Portable Air Conditioner - User Manual

Safety Information and General Operation

This appliance is a local air conditioner designed for domestic use. Only use as described in this manual. Ensure your electrical supply matches the required voltage (220-240V~50Hz). The unit is protected by a T, 250V AC fuse, not exceeding 3.15A. Children aged 8 and above, and individuals with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience, may use this appliance under supervision or if they have received instructions on safe usage and understand the associated hazards. Children should not play with the appliance. User maintenance should not be performed by children without supervision. Ensure your electrical system can provide the necessary operating current. Refer to the unit's data plate for maximum power consumption. Electrical connections must comply with current installation standards. Ensure circuit breakers and protective valves can handle a starting current of 6A for a maximum of 1 second. The electrical outlet must be properly earthed. Ensure the plug is inserted firmly; do not use a multi-plug adapter. Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Ensure the plug is clean. Do not use the plug as a means to start/stop the air conditioner; use the POWER button on the remote control or control panel. Avoid installing the air conditioner in areas subject to water splashes (e.g., laundry rooms, bathrooms) or in humid environments.

Before moving or cleaning the unit, ensure the plug is disconnected from the power outlet. Do not move the air conditioner while it is in operation; switch it off first, check and empty the condensate if necessary. Always keep the air conditioner in a vertical position. To switch off the appliance, set the remote control to OFF and remove the plug from the socket. Pull only the plug, not the cord. Do not use the appliance if the cord or plug is damaged. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its technical service, or a similarly qualified person to prevent any risk. The appliance must be installed in accordance with national wiring regulations. Keep the appliance away from fire, possible sources of ignition, flammable and explosive objects, insecticides, or flammable substances. Do not leave the unit unattended while it is in operation; switch off and unplug the unit. If using a drain hose, the ambient temperature should not be below 0°C, as this may cause water leakage. Do not spray or pour water on the air conditioner. Before moving or cleaning, ensure the plug is disconnected. Do not place any objects on the air conditioner. Do not pierce or burn the air conditioner. Ensure the power outlet is intact, and after connecting the power cord, ensure the cord is routed where it cannot be stepped on to prevent accidental disconnection.

CAUTION! Do not insert objects into the air conditioner as this is very dangerous due to the high-speed fan. Ensure free air circulation and do not obstruct the air intake and outlet grilles with curtains or other items.

ATTENTION! The air conditioner must be positioned at least 50 cm from walls or other obstacles, on a flat and stable surface to prevent water leakage. The air conditioner is equipped with a compressor overload protection system that allows the compressor to start only after at least 3 minutes from a previous stop. Please wait at least 3 minutes before restarting the unit to avoid compressor damage.

ATTENTION! If an anomaly occurs, switch off the appliance and unplug it. Do not disassemble or attempt to repair or modify the product. In case of malfunction, contact the service center directly.

ATTENTION! Do not expose the air conditioner to direct sunlight, as the color of the materials may change and overheating could activate the protection mechanism, causing it to shut down. Do not use insecticides, oils, detergents, or spray paints around the appliance; do not use aggressive chemical detergents for cleaning the casing, as this could damage its finish and color. Close all windows to achieve maximum air conditioning efficiency. The manufacturer assumes no responsibility if safety and accident prevention regulations are not respected.

Appliance Description

The appliance consists of:

• 1. Control Panel
• 2. Vertical air outlet louvers
• 3. Handle
• 4. Wheels
• 5. Side air filters
• 6. Cable winder
• 7. Air exhaust hose connection
• 8. Condensate drain hole (dehumidification mode)
• 9. Condensate drain hole (cooling mode)

Operating limits (internal temperature):

• Cooling: 5°C B.S./35°C B.S.
• Dehumidification: 5°C B.S./35°C B.S.
• Ambient temperature setting range: 16°C B.S./32°C B.S.

Operations and Checks Before Operation

Ensure the following spaces are maintained for optimal operation:

• Minimum 50 cm clearance from walls.

Appliance Setup

Open the packaging and remove the carton. Extract the product and accessories:

• Remote control
• Condensate drain hose for emptying the internal tank
• Rear connection for the air exhaust hose
• Flexible air exhaust hose
• Window sealing plate for the window frame
• Round connector for the porthole kit
• Porthole kit with cap

Using the Window Sealing Plate

1. Extend the flexible hose as needed to reach the outside (max 1.5 m) and connect it to the rear of the air conditioner (Fig. 1).
2. Open the window and block one of the sashes with the handle. Place the window sealing plate on the fixed sash, then close the other window sash (Fig. 2).

Using the Porthole Kit

1. For glass drilling, consult a glazier and provide the porthole kit accessory (Fig. 1).
2. Insert the porthole into the window (Fig. 2).
3. Insert the round connector for the porthole kit into the flexible hose and insert the hose with the connector into the porthole without the cap (Fig. 3).
4. During periods of non-use, disconnect the hose and close the porthole with the cap (Fig. 4).

Avoid tight curves or kinks in the flexible hose. The hose, once fully extended, should be positioned higher than the hose connection on the unit, ideally between 40 and 160 cm, to ensure correct height and optimal performance. During periods of non-use, disconnect the hose and close the porthole with the cap.

Operating Modes

This appliance can be used for Cooling, Dehumidification, and Ventilation. Before use, leave the appliance upright for at least two hours. Connect the power cord to an appropriate power outlet (220-240V~). Insert batteries into the remote control, observing polarity. Select the desired operating mode using the remote control. The air conditioner has a protection system that activates the Cooling and Dehumidification modes only after approximately 3 minutes from selection. Even when switching between modes, the fan continues to run, but the compressor stops and restarts after 3 minutes. This delay protects the compressor from overload.

Cooling Mode (COOL)

• Press the MODE button to select Cooling. The LED on the control panel will light up.
• The temperature setting range is from 16°C to 32°C in 1°C increments.
• In this mode, if the unit is switched off using the POWER button, the appliance memorizes the set temperature and will maintain it upon restart.
• In cooling mode, the fan speed defaults to low, and the display shows the ambient temperature. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the desired temperature.
• In this mode, you can adjust the fan speed, set the timer, and activate the Sleep function.
• For quieter operation, reduce the fan speed to low.
• The unit has a system that automatically adjusts fan speed based on the detected ambient temperature. To select the desired fan speed, press the Speed button; the corresponding LEDs will light up.

Dehumidification Mode (DRY)

• Press the MODE button to select Dehumidification. The LED on the control panel will light up.
• The temperature is set by default and cannot be adjusted.
• In this mode, if the unit is switched off using the POWER button, the appliance memorizes the settings and will maintain them upon restart.
• The humidity adjustment range is 35-80%. Temperature cannot be adjusted in dehumidification mode.
• Fan speed can be adjusted.

Ventilation Mode (FAN)

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

Functionality Control

Remote Control

Inserting Batteries (not included): Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote control by sliding the cover as indicated by the arrow. Insert batteries, ensuring correct polarity. Replace the cover. Use alkaline batteries (AAA, LR03/1.5V) compliant with Directive 2006/66/EC and Directive 56/2013/EU. Do not mix old and new batteries, or batteries of different types. If the remote control is not used for a long time, remove the batteries. Dispose of batteries correctly.

Battery Warnings

• Do not expose batteries to heat sources like fire, sun, or similar.
• Remove batteries if they start to heat up or if you do not intend to use the appliance for a long period.
• Install batteries correctly in the battery compartment.
• When removing batteries that are depleted or damaged, comply with national regulations for disposal.
• In case of battery leakage, remove all batteries, preventing the leaked liquid from contacting skin or clothing. If battery liquid contacts skin or clothing, wash the skin immediately with water. Before inserting new batteries, clean the battery compartment thoroughly with a dry cloth or paper towel, or follow the battery manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning. Use only batteries of the same size and type.

Caution: Risk of explosion if the battery is replaced with an incorrect type. Improper use of batteries can cause liquid leakage, overheating, or explosion. The liquid is corrosive and can cause burns to skin and eyes, and is harmful if swallowed. To reduce the risk of injury:

• Keep batteries out of reach of children.
• Do not heat, open, puncture, cut, or dispose of batteries in fire.
• Do not mix old and new batteries or batteries of different types.
• Do not leave metal objects that can contact battery terminals, causing them to heat up or cause burns.

Remote Control Operation

For optimal remote control operation, point the transmitter head towards the receiver on the air conditioner.

• 1. POWER button
• 2. HEATING button (inactive)
• 3. AUTO button
• 4. SLEEP button
• 5. UP/DOWN buttons
• 6. LOCK button (child lock)
• 7. °C/°F TEMPERATURE DISPLAY button
• 8. DRY (dehumidification) button
• 9. DISPLAY ILLUMINATION button
• 10. WIFI button
• 11. TIMER button
• 12. SWING button (automatic oscillation)
• 13. SPEED button
• 14. COLD (cooling) button
• 15. MODE button
• 16. REMOTE CONTROL DISPLAY

Control Panel Operation

When the power cord is connected, the unit emits three audible signals. Press this button to turn the unit on or off. The unit emits an audible signal. All function LEDs on the control panel light up, then turn off after a few seconds, while the POWER button LED remains lit with reduced brightness. Upon unit startup, the set temperature is displayed, and the unit enters cooling mode (Cool). Press this button on the control panel or remote control to turn the unit on or off. The unit emits an audible signal. Upon unit startup, the previously set temperature in Cooling mode is displayed. Press this button again to start the appliance's operation. Default settings are: Cooling mode, low fan speed, and the display shows the ambient temperature.

SPEED Button

Press this button on the control panel to select the desired fan speed among Low, Medium, High, Auto, in the following circular sequence: →→*. The corresponding LEDs on the control panel light up based on the selection. In Auto mode, all fan speed LEDs light up simultaneously. Auto fan speed can only be selected in Cooling mode. Auto mode adjusts fan speed based on the user-set temperature and the ambient temperature:

• If the difference between the set temperature and the ambient temperature is greater than 4°C, the fan speed will be high.
• If the difference between the set temperature and the ambient temperature is greater than 2°C or less than or equal to 4°C, the fan speed will be medium.
• If the difference between the set temperature and the ambient temperature is less than or equal to 2°C, the fan speed will be medium.

When the Speed button is selected on the remote control, the fan speed will be displayed on the remote control display as follows: Low (00) - Medium (0000) - High (000000).

MODE Button

Press this button on the control panel to select the operating mode: Cooling (Cool), Dehumidification (Dry), Ventilation (Fan) in the following circular sequence: →. The corresponding LEDs on the control panel light up based on the selection. In Dehumidification (DRY) mode, fan speed cannot be selected. On the remote control, press the Mode button to select the operating mode in the following sequence: Cooling (Cool), Dehumidification (Dry), Ventilation (Fan). On the remote control, you can directly select the desired operating mode by pressing the COOL, DRY buttons. To set the FAN mode, press the MODE button, the icon lights up, and Fn is displayed on the remote control display. The corresponding icons light up on the remote control display based on the selection.

SLEEP Button

Press this button on the control panel or remote control. When Sleep mode is selected, the LEDs on the control panel dim, while the Sleep LED remains constantly lit on the control panel. The operating mode and temperature can be adjusted, except in Ventilation mode. Fan speed cannot be adjusted and the appliance constantly operates at low speed. The Sleep function allows the unit to operate silently, saving energy. In Cooling mode, after 1 hour of operation, the temperature increases by 1°C; after the second hour, it increases by another 1°C. After 5 consecutive hours of operation, the temperature increases by another 1°C. After a total of 10 consecutive hours of operation, the appliance exits Sleep mode and resumes normal operation.

TIMER Button

From control panel or remote control: Press this button to set the operating hours of the air conditioner. When the figure 01 flashes on the display, press the UP or DOWN buttons repeatedly to set the desired number of hours, up to 24. Wait for the set figure to flash on the display for 5 seconds: this indicates that the setting has been successfully made. Pressing the Timer button again while the figures are flashing will cancel the Timer function.

SWING Button (automatic oscillation)

With the unit on, press this button on the control panel or remote control to select the automatic horizontal oscillation of the air outlet louvers; the LED on the control panel will light up. Press this button again to stop the oscillation of the louvers, which will then remain fixed in the same position. The LED on the control panel will turn off. Vertical louvers can be manually adjusted to the desired position.

UP/DOWN Buttons

Press these buttons on the control panel or remote control to adjust the temperature (each press increases or decreases the temperature by 1°C) and set the Timer (each press increases or decreases the time by 1 hour).

Functions Available Only on Remote Control

Temperature Display Function

On the remote control, simultaneously press the UP/DOWN buttons to switch the temperature display between °C and °F.

MEMORY Function

In case of a power outage, upon restart, the unit will operate in the previously set mode.

CHILD LOCK Function

With the unit on, press the Swing and Timer buttons simultaneously on the control panel for 3 seconds to activate or deactivate the control panel lock function. The LED on the control panel will light up. To deactivate this function, press and hold the Timer button for approximately 3 seconds, or turn the appliance off and on again. On the remote control, press the LOCK button to activate or deactivate this function, and "Lo" will be displayed.

DISPLAY ILLUMINATION

Press the Display button on the remote control to activate or deactivate the control panel display illumination.

DISPLAY TEMPERATURE AND ERRORS

The display will show the set temperature in cooling mode. If the unit is operating in dehumidification mode, the ambient humidity will be displayed.

• Problem E1: Cause: Faulty ambient temperature sensor. Solution: Contact an authorized service center.
• Problem E2: Cause: Faulty evaporator temperature sensor. Solution: Contact an authorized service center.
• Problem P1: Cause: Tank full alarm. Solution: Connect the drain hose to the condensate drain hole.

WIFI Guide

App Information: "SMART LIFE - SMART LIVING"

The "Smart Life-Smart Living" app is available for Android and iOS. Scan the corresponding QR code to access the download directly.

• Install the "Smart Life-Smart Living" app. Create a user account.
• Activate the WIFI function in the appliance settings.
• Position the appliance about 5 meters from the router.
• Press and hold the Swing button for approximately 5 seconds to initiate network configuration. When the WIFI indicator on the control panel flashes, you can connect to WIFI.

WIFI Connection

• When the WIFI indicator flashes, select "+" and choose "Air Conditioners" from the menu. Follow the on-screen instructions.
• If the configuration is successful, the Wifi LED will remain lit on the control panel.
• You can now use the appliance via the app.
• Press and hold the Swing button for approximately 5 seconds to disconnect the appliance; the WIFI indicator will turn off.

Maintenance and Care

ATTENTION! Before performing any cleaning or maintenance operations, unplug the unit from the power outlet.

1. Air Filter Cleaning

The air filters should be checked at least once every two weeks of operation. Operation with dirty or clogged filters always causes a decrease in air conditioner efficiency and can lead to serious problems. To remove the filters, located on the side of the unit, slide them out completely from their seats. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the filters. If this is not sufficient, wash the filters with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, rinse with cold water, and allow them to dry naturally before reinserting them.

2. Casing Cleaning

Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the external surface of the air conditioner. Do not use hot water, solvents, gasoline, or other aggressive chemical compounds, talcum powder, or brushes, as these could damage the surface or the color of the casing. To remove stains, use lukewarm water with a little mild detergent. Do not pour water on the air conditioner for cleaning, as this could damage internal components or cause a short circuit.

3. Storage

When the air conditioner will not be used for a long period, clean the filters before storing. Always keep the appliance in a vertical position. Do not place heavy objects on the top surface and, if possible, protect the air conditioner with a plastic sheet.

4. Transport

Transport the air conditioner preferably in a vertical position. If this is not possible, lay it on its right side. When you arrive at your destination, immediately place the appliance in a vertical position and wait at least 4 hours before using it for cooling.

5. For maximum safety, periodically check the condition of the power cord; if it is damaged from use, contact the Service Center for replacement.

Tips for Maximum Comfort and Minimum Consumption

CHECK THAT:

• The unit's air intake and outlet grilles are always clear.
• The air filters are always clean; a dirty filter reduces airflow and unit performance.
• Doors and windows are closed to prevent infiltration of non-conditioned air.
• The flexible hose is correctly positioned, without kinks or tight bends.
• The ambient temperature is above 5°C for cooling and dehumidification.

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

The unit contains R290, a natural gas with a global warming potential (GWP) = 3 - Kg. 0.180 = 0.00054 tons CO2 equivalent. Do not release R290 into the environment.

INFORMATION FOR CORRECT DISPOSAL OF THE PRODUCT PURSUANT TO ART. 26 OF LEGISLATIVE DECREE 14/03/14, NO. 49 “IMPLEMENTATION OF EUROPEAN DIRECTIVE 2012/19/EU ON WASTE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT”

At the end of its useful life, this appliance must not be disposed of with household waste. We remind you of the consumer's important role in contributing to the reuse, recycling, and other forms of recovery of such waste. The appliance must be delivered to separate collection points or provided free of charge by retailers upon purchase of a new equivalent appliance. For products with an external dimension less than 25 cm, this free waste collection service must be provided free of charge by large retailers (sales area of at least 400m²) even if no equivalent appliance is purchased. Disposing of electrical and electronic equipment separately helps prevent negative effects on the environment and human health from improper disposal and allows for the recovery and recycling of its components, with significant savings in energy and resources. To emphasize the obligation to dispose of this equipment separately, the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol is shown on the product.

Precautions for Specialists

Required Skills for Maintenance (Repairs should only be carried out by specialists).

• Any person involved in working on or opening a refrigeration circuit must possess a valid certificate issued by an accredited assessment body in the sector, authorizing their competence to handle refrigerants safely in accordance with a recognized sector assessment specification.
• Maintenance must be carried out only as recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Maintenance and repair requiring the assistance of other qualified personnel must be carried out under the supervision of the person competent in the use of flammable refrigerants.

Safety Preparation Work

The maximum refrigerant charge quantity is indicated in the following table (Note: refer to the data plate for the R290 charge quantity).

Safety Checks

Before starting work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimized. For the repair of the refrigeration system, the following precautions must be observed before carrying out work on the system.

Work Procedure

Work must be carried out according to a controlled procedure to minimize the risk of flammable gas or vapor being present during the work.

General Work Area

All maintenance personnel and others working in the local area must be instructed on the nature of the work being carried out. Work in confined spaces must be avoided. The area around the work zone must be cordoned off. Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made safe by controlling flammable material.

Refrigerant Presence Check

The area must be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector before and during work to ensure that the technician is aware of potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure that the leak detection equipment in use is suitable for use with all applicable refrigerants, i.e., spark-proof, adequately sealed, or intrinsically safe.

Fire Extinguisher Presence

If hot work is to be carried out on refrigeration equipment or any associated part, adequate fire-fighting equipment must be available. A dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher must be available adjacent to the charging area.

No Ignition Sources

No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system that involves exposure of pipework must use ignition sources in a manner that could lead to a risk of fire or explosion. All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoke, must be kept sufficiently far from the place of installation, repair, removal, and disposal, during which refrigerant may eventually be released into the surrounding space. Before starting work, the area around the equipment must be checked to ensure there are no risks of flammability or ignition. "No Smoking" signs must be displayed.

Ventilated Area

Ensure the area is outdoors or adequately ventilated before breaching the system or carrying out any hot work. Continuous ventilation must be present during the period the work is being carried out. Ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably expel it into the atmosphere.

Refrigeration Equipment Checks

• When replacing electrical components, they must be suitable for the purpose and meet the correct specifications. Manufacturer's maintenance and service guidelines must always be followed. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer's technical office for assistance.
• The following checks must be applied to installations using flammable refrigerants:
• The actual refrigerant charge is in accordance with the room size in which the refrigerant-containing parts are installed.
• Ventilation machines and outlets are functioning adequately and are not obstructed.
• If an indirect refrigeration circuit is used, the secondary circuit must be checked for refrigerant.
• The marking on the appliance continues to be visible and legible. Illegible markings and signs must be corrected.
• Pipes or refrigeration components are installed in a position where they are unlikely to be exposed to any substance that could corrode refrigerant-containing components, unless the components are constructed of intrinsically corrosion-resistant materials or are adequately protected from corrosion.

Electrical Device Checks

Repair and maintenance of electrical components must include initial safety checks and component inspection procedures. If a fault exists that could compromise safety, do not connect the electrical supply to the circuit until it is satisfactorily resolved. If the fault cannot be repaired immediately but operation must continue, an adequate temporary solution must be used. This must be reported to the equipment owner so that all parties are informed. Initial safety checks include:

• Ensuring that capacitors are discharged: this must be done safely to avoid the possibility of sparks.
• Ensuring that no electrical components or wiring are exposed during system charging, restoration, or purging.
• Ensuring that there is continuity of earthing.

Sealed Component Repairs

During repairs to sealed components, all electrical supplies must be disconnected from the equipment being worked on before removing sealed covers, etc. If it is absolutely necessary to have electrical power to the equipment during maintenance, then a leak detection device must be positioned at the most critical point to warn of a potentially hazardous situation. Particular attention must be paid to the following to ensure that, when working on electrical components, the casing is not altered in such a way as to compromise the protection level. This includes damage to cables, excessive number of connections, terminals not made to original specifications, damage to seals, incorrect mounting of cable glands, etc.

• Ensure that the appliance is securely mounted.
• Ensure that seals or sealing materials are not degraded to the point where they no longer serve the purpose of preventing the ingress of flammable atmospheres. Spare parts must comply with the manufacturer's specifications.

NOTE: The use of silicone sealant may inhibit the effectiveness of some types of leak detection equipment. Intrinsically safe components must not be insulated before working on them.

Intrinsically Safe Component Repair

Do not apply permanent inductive or capacitive loads to the circuit without ensuring that it does not exceed the voltage and current ratings for the equipment in use. Intrinsically safe components are the only ones that can be worked on in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. Test equipment must be of the correct rating. Replace components only with parts specified by the manufacturer. Other parts may cause flammable refrigerant to ignite in the atmosphere due to a leak.

Wiring

Check that the wiring is not subject to wear, corrosion, excessive pressure, vibration, sharp edges, or other adverse environmental effects. The check must also take into account the effects of aging or continuous vibrations from sources such as compressors or fans.

Flammable Refrigerant Detection

Under no circumstances should potential ignition sources be used when searching for or detecting refrigerant leaks. A halide torch (or any other detector using a naked flame) must not be used.

Leak Detection Methods

The following leak detection methods are considered acceptable for all refrigerant systems. Electronic leak detectors can be used to detect refrigerant leaks, but for flammable refrigerants, the sensitivity may not be adequate or recalibration may be necessary. (The detection equipment must be calibrated in a refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the detector is not a potential ignition source and is suitable for the refrigerant used. Leak detection equipment must be set to the refrigerant's LFL percentage and must be calibrated according to the refrigerant used, confirming the appropriate gas percentage (25% maximum). Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants, but the use of detergents containing chlorine must be avoided as chlorine may react with the refrigerant and corrode copper tubing. If a leak is suspected, all naked flames must be removed/extinguished. If a refrigerant leak is detected that requires brazing, all refrigerant must be recovered from the system or isolated (by means of shut-off valves) in a part of the system away from the leak. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, oxygen-free nitrogen (OFN) must then be purged through the system both before and during the brazing process.

Removal and Evacuation

• When breaching the refrigerant circuit to carry out repairs or for any other purpose, conventional procedures must be used. However, for flammable refrigerants, best practices must be followed as there is a risk of flammability.
• The following procedure must be observed:
• recover the refrigerant;
• purge the circuit with inert gas; evacuate;
• purge again with inert gas;
• open the circuit by cutting or brazing.
• Refrigerant charge must be recovered into correct recovery cylinders. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, the system must be flushed with OFN to make the unit safe. This process may need to be repeated several times. Compressed air or oxygen must not be used for purging refrigerant systems. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, flushing must be achieved by breaking the vacuum in the system with OFN and continuing to fill until operating pressure is reached, then venting to atmosphere and finally pulling down to vacuum. This process must be repeated until no more refrigerant is found within the system. When the final OFN charge is used, the system must be vented to atmospheric pressure to allow work to be carried out. This operation is absolutely essential if brazing operations are to be carried out on the pipework. Ensure that the vacuum pump outlet is not close to ignition sources and that ventilation is available.

Recharge Procedures

In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements must be followed.

• Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging equipment. Hoses or lines must be as short as possible to minimize the amount of refrigerant contained within them.
• Cylinders must be kept upright.
• Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed before charging the system with refrigerant.
• Label the system when the charge is complete (if not already done).
• Exercise extreme caution not to overcharge the refrigeration system.
• Before recharging the system, it must be pressure tested with the appropriate purge gas.
• The system must be leak tested upon completion of the charge but before commissioning. A subsequent leak test must be carried out before leaving the site.

Decommissioning

Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is fully familiar with the equipment and all its details. Good practice dictates that all refrigerants are safely recovered. Before commencing the activity, a sample of oil and refrigerant must be taken in case analysis is required before the recovered refrigerant can be reused. It is essential that electrical power is available before commencing the activity.

1. Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
2. Electrically isolate the system.
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 correctly used.
• the recovery process is supervised at all times by a competent person.
• the recovery equipment and cylinders comply with appropriate standards.
4. If possible, evacuate the refrigerant system.
5. If a vacuum cannot be achieved, set up a manifold so that refrigerant can be removed from the various parts of the system.
6. Ensure the cylinder is placed on the scale before recovery takes place.
7. Start the recovery machine and operate according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not overfill the cylinders. (Not more than 80% by volume of liquid charge).
9. Do not exceed, even temporarily, the maximum operating pressure of the cylinder.
10. When the cylinders have been correctly filled and the process is complete, ensure that the cylinders and equipment are promptly removed from the site and that all shut-off valves on the equipment are closed.
11. Recovered refrigerant must not be charged into another refrigeration system unless it has been cleaned and checked.

Labeling

The equipment must be labeled indicating that it has been decommissioned and evacuated of refrigerant. The label must be dated and signed. For appliances containing flammable refrigerants, ensure that there are labels on the appliance indicating that the appliance contains flammable refrigerant.

Recovery

When removing refrigerant from a system, whether for maintenance or dismantling, good practice dictates that all refrigerants are safely removed. When transferring refrigerant into cylinders, ensure that only refrigerant recovery cylinders are used. Ensure that the correct number of cylinders is available to hold the total system charge. All cylinders to be used are designated for recovered refrigerant and labeled for that refrigerant (i.e., special cylinders for refrigerant recovery). Cylinders must be fitted with a pressure relief valve and shut-off valves in good working order. Empty recovery cylinders are evacuated and, if possible, cooled before recovery takes place. If compressors or compressor oils are to be removed, ensure that they have been evacuated to an acceptable level to ensure that flammable refrigerant is not left within the lubricant. The evacuation process must be carried out before returning the compressor to the suppliers. Only electrical heating of the compressor body should be used to accelerate this process. When oil is drained from a system, it must be done safely.