What procedure is needed to minimize refrigerant loss when removing a service manifold?

To minimize refrigerant loss when removing a service manifold, the correct procedure involves backing seat the high side, equalizing the pressure, backing seat the low side, and then removing the gauge lines.

Backing seat the high side first helps isolate the high-pressure refrigerant in that part of the system. By then equalizing the pressure, any pressure difference that could lead to refrigerant escaping when the lines are disconnected is mitigated. This creates a more balanced state between the manifold and the system, reducing the risk of refrigerant release when the low side is backed seated and gauge lines are removed. Back seating the low side afterward ensures that no refrigerant escapes from there as well, maintaining system integrity.

This method emphasizes pressure equalization as a key step, which is crucial in refrigerant management. Proper pressure management is essential in HVAC systems to protect against unintended loss or contamination of refrigerants, particularly given environmental regulations surrounding F-gases.