Refrigerant Leak Detectors

Refrigerant leak detectors also known as A/C leak detectors are special types of detectors which are used to detect the leak of gas in a refrigeration unit or an air condition unit. A refrigerant unit uses a sf6 gas which is harmful for the environment, plus a constant leak of this gas can also be dangerous for kids and adults alike. There are a number of well known companies that manufacture leak detectors but in most cases the only difference is their brand name and the durability of the system.

Some of the more popular brands of refrigerant leak detectors include:

Robinair – They manufacture durable and long lasting refrigerant leak detectors.
TIF instrument – Their detectors are known for being one of the best in the world
Testo – highly accurate and affordable Testo is often a choice for professionals
Amprobe - They leak detectors are durable and accurate but slightly more expensive

How do refrigerant leak detectors work?

Almost all available leak detectors work in the same way i.e. by checking the pressure of gas in the unit. The detector needs to be attached to the gas line of the refrigeration unit which then measures the level of gas and detects small reductions in its pressure. If the gas pressure of a system is constantly declining it means that there is a leak, the technician will then attach the detector to various parts of a system in order to narrow down the affected area prior to fixing the leak. While some detectors are highly accurate and able to detect the slightest change in pressure others will only be able to detect more obvious signs of leaks. However, it is important that you purchase the best possible detector as it can make your job a lot easier.

Where to purchase refrigerant leak detectors from?

There are numerous stores that sell refrigerant leak detectors, but the big problem with many of the local stores is that they sell mostly imported detectors which are not as reliable as their locally manufactured counterparts. However, ones manufactured abroad are cheaper so the demand for them is higher despite the fact that they are not very accurate or durable for that matter. If you are finding it difficult to locate a detector in local stores then you should search online. Online stores selling refrigerant leak detectors often sell high quality detectors made locally at discounted prices, you can also get an additional discount if you make a bulk purchase.

How much do refrigerant leak detectors cost?

The prices of detectors have remained pretty stable these past five years, however imported detectors mostly from China are a lot cheaper and shouldn’t cost you over $200 a piece. But if you’re looking for durability and accuracy you may have to pay around $500 on average from an American detector. However because American detectors last longer you end up saving money in the long run as the average age of a locally made detector is around five years.