Sinclair SDV 6 Service Manual page 6

2 R32 System Service
Indoor units in this manual can be used with both R410A and R32 refrigerant systems. When repairing systems that use
R32 refrigerant, the following warnings and operating requirements should be noted.
2.1 Warning about the R32 refrigerant
The following information indicates a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
The following applies to R32 refrigerant systems.
Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the
risk of ignition is minimized.
For repair to the refrigerating system, the following precautions shall be complied with prior to conducting work on the
system.
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimise the risk of a flammable gas or vapour being
present while the work is being performed.
All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature of work being carried out.
Work in confined spaces shall be avoided. The area around the workspace shall be sectioned off. Ensure that the
conditions within the area have been made safe by control of flammable material.
The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work, to ensure the technician is
aware of potentially flammable atmospheres.
Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with flammable refrigerants, i.e. non-sparking,
adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts, appropriate fire extinguishing
equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing any pipe work that contains or
has contained flammable refrigerant shall use any sources of ignition in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of fire
or explosion.
All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of
installation, repairing, removing and disposal, during which flammable refrigerant can possibly be released to the
surrounding space.
Prior to work taking place, the area around the equipment is to be surveyed to make sure that there are no flammable
hazards or ignition risks. "No Smoking" signs shall be displayed.
Ensure that the area is in the open or that it is adequately ventilated before breaking into the system or conducting any
hot work. A degree of ventilation shall continue during the period that the work is carried out. The ventilation should
safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably expel it externally into the atmosphere.
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the purpose and to the correct specification. At all
times the manufacturer's maintenance and service guidelines shall be followed. If in doubt consult the manufacturer's
technical department for assistance.
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