1. Visual and Auditory Inspection: Look for oil stains: Refrigerants are usually miscible with refrigeration oil, and leaks often carry oil, forming noticeable oil stains at pipe connections, valves, and other locations. This is the most direct clue. Listen for unusual sounds: If the leak is significant, a "hissing" sound of escaping gas may sometimes be heard.
2. Soap Water Leak Detection Method (most economical and practical): Principle: Apply soapy water (or a special leak detection fluid) to the suspected leak area. If there is a leak, the escaping gas will cause the soapy water to bubble. Operation: Use a brush or sponge to evenly apply soapy water to interfaces, welds, valves, and other possible leak points. Advantages: Extremely low cost, simple operation, and effective for small leaks. Disadvantages: Not sensitive to very small leaks (slow leaks); difficult to use in narrow, high-temperature, or hard-to-reach locations; requires cleanup afterward.
