Liquid Leak Detectors and Pressure Testing

Liquid/bubbles leak detectors have very limited usefulness. This is due to the restricted visibility in today's refrigerant systems and liquid/bubbles leak detectors' lack of sensitivity.

Evaporator Core
One of the most difficult leaks to find is in the evaporator core. Follow the instructions below in order to lead test the core:
1. Turn the blower fan on high for 15 or more seconds.
2. Shut the blower fan off.
3. Wait 10 minutes.
4. Remove the blower fan power module or resistor block if accessible.
5. If the blower fan power module is not accessible, inspect the condenser drain tube for moisture.
6. If the condenser drain tube is dry, use it instead.
7. Insert the leak detector probe into the resistor/relay opening, or the blower case drain tube. If the detector goes to a solid alarm, a leak has been found.
8. Inspect the core face for evidence of refrigerant oil with a flashlight. On R-134a systems, the lubricant is water soluble so no evidence of oil is likely, even with a leak.

Compressor Shaft Seal
1. Blow shop air behind and in front of the compressor clutch/pulley for at least 15 seconds.
2. Wait 1-2 minutes.
3. Probe the area in front of the pulley. If the detector goes to a solid alarm, a leak has been found.