Checking ozone-depleting substances equipment for leaks
How often you must get equipment checked for leaks if it contains hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) - a type of ozone-depleting substance (ODS).
A qualified technician must check equipment containing ODS (HCFCs) for leaks every:
- 12 months if it’s charged with (contains) 3kg or more HCFCs and isn’t hermetically sealed
- 12 months if it’s charged with 6kg or more HCFCs and is hermetically sealed
- 6 months if it’s charged with 30kg or more HCFCs
- 3 months, if it’s charged with 300kg or more HCFCs
Equipment is hermetically sealed if a part of the product containing HCFCs is permanently sealed. This means it is welded or brazed shut, even if it has capped valves or service ports.
If you find a leak
If you find a leak you must repair it within 14 days and repeat the test within one month to check the repair worked.