Refrigerant Leak Rate Calculator
Calculate leak rates and verify EPA 608 compliance
EPA 608 Requirement: Systems with refrigerant charge ≥50 lbs must be repaired when leak rate exceeds the applicable threshold.
EPA 608 Leak Rate Thresholds
15%
Comfort Cooling
AC, Heat Pumps, Chillers
20%
Industrial Process
Process Cooling Systems
30%
Commercial Refrigeration
Supermarkets, Walk-ins
Leak Information
Amount added to bring system to full charge
Time since last full charge or service
Number of times refrigerant was added
Leak Rate Analysis
System Charge
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Amount Lost
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Annual Leak Rate
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EPA Threshold
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Calculation Details
Measurement Period:
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Annualized Factor:
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Annualized Loss:
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Leak Rate Formula:
(Lost ÷ Charge) × 100%
Equipment Category:
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EPA Regulated:
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Record-Keeping Requirements
- • Record all refrigerant additions and removals with dates
- • Document leak checks and repair attempts
- • Maintain service records for at least 3 years
- • Include technician EPA certification number
- • Track cumulative refrigerant purchases per year
EPA 608 Leak Rate Requirements
| Equipment Type | Threshold | Repair Deadline | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Cooling | 15% | 30 days | Air conditioners, heat pumps, chillers, rooftop units |
| Commercial Refrigeration | 30% | 30 days | Supermarket systems, walk-in coolers, ice machines |
| Industrial Process | 20% | 30 days | Process chillers, industrial freezers, cold storage |
Important: These requirements apply to equipment containing 50 lbs or more of refrigerant. While equipment under 50 lbs is not federally regulated for leak rate, state regulations may apply and best practices recommend repairing all leaks promptly.
Repair Timeline Requirements
Standard Repair Process
- Day 0: Discover leak rate exceeds threshold
- Within 30 days: Complete leak repair
- Within 30 days after repair: Conduct initial verification test
- Within 10 days of passing test: Submit repair documentation
Extension Options
- 120-Day Extension: Available if industrial process shutdown or seasonal equipment
- 1-Year Retrofit/Retirement: If planning to retrofit or retire equipment
- Mothballing: Evacuate refrigerant and isolate from atmosphere
Failure to Comply
- • Penalties: Up to $44,539 per day, per violation (as of 2024)
- • Criminal charges: Possible for knowing violations
- • Required actions: Must retrofit, repair, or retire equipment
Leak Detection Best Practices
Common Leak Locations
- • Schrader valves and caps
- • Flare connections
- • Brazed joints
- • Compressor terminals
- • TXV body and bulb
- • Coil U-bends and headers
- • Service valves
- • Oil level sight glass
Detection Methods
- • Electronic detector: Most sensitive
- • Ultrasonic: Good for pressurized leaks
- • Bubble test: Visual confirmation
- • UV dye: Useful for slow leaks
- • Standing pressure test: System integrity
- • Nitrogen pressure test: Dry test method
Prevention Tips
- • Install cap seals on service ports
- • Use proper brazing techniques
- • Torque flare fittings correctly
- • Avoid vibration damage
- • Regular maintenance inspections
- • Replace aging gaskets/seals
- • Use leak sealant for small leaks
- • Pressure test after repairs
Environmental Impact Calculator
Refrigerant GWP
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CO₂ Equivalent (Annual)
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Cars Equivalent (1 year)
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* Based on average car emissions of 4.6 metric tons CO₂ per year
| Refrigerant | GWP | 10 lb Leak = CO₂ Tons | Phase-out Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| R-22 | 1,810 | 8.2 tons | Phased Out (2020) |
| R-410A | 2,088 | 9.5 tons | Phase-down 2025+ |
| R-404A | 3,922 | 17.8 tons | Restricted |
| R-407C | 1,774 | 8.0 tons | Limited Use |
| R-32 | 675 | 3.1 tons | Current |
| R-454B | 467 | 2.1 tons | Low-GWP Alternative |
| R-134a | 1,430 | 6.5 tons | Phase-down |