Refrigerant Identifier & Contamination Detector
Identify unknown refrigerants and detect potential contamination
⚠️ Important Safety Notice
This tool provides estimates based on P-T curve analysis. For definitive refrigerant identification, use a certified refrigerant identifier/analyzer instrument. Mixing incompatible refrigerants can cause equipment damage, safety hazards, or void warranties.
Enter Measured Readings
Measure the saturation pressure and temperature at the same point in the system (e.g., suction or liquid line with gauges connected).
From P-T chart lookup or thermometer
From gauge manifold reading
If you know what should be in the system
Enter pressure and temperature readings to identify the refrigerant
How Refrigerant Identification Works
Measure P-T
Connect gauges and measure saturation pressure. Note the temperature at the same point.
Compare Curves
The tool compares your readings against known P-T curves for common refrigerants.
Identify Match
The best match is identified. Large deviations from all curves indicate potential contamination.
Signs of Refrigerant Contamination
Symptoms
- P-T readings don't match any known refrigerant
- Unusually high or low pressures for expected refrigerant
- System performance issues (poor cooling, high amp draw)
- Compressor overheating or tripping on overload
- Abnormal subcooling/superheat readings
What To Do If Contaminated
- 1 Stop operation - Running contaminated refrigerant damages compressors
- 2 Recover all refrigerant - Use contaminated recovery cylinder
- 3 Replace filter-drier - Contamination may have degraded oil
- 4 Check oil condition - Acid test and color check
- 5 Triple evacuate - Remove all traces before recharging
- 6 Charge with fresh refrigerant - Use virgin refrigerant only
⚠️ Common Contamination Scenarios
R-22 + R-410A Mix
Risk: High. Different oils (MO vs POE), vastly different operating pressures. Causes compressor failure, oil breakdown, and poor performance. P-T readings will fall between expected curves of both refrigerants.
R-410A + R-22 Blends (407C, 422D)
Risk: Moderate. Often happens during improper "drop-in" conversions. Watch for P-T readings that match neither refrigerant cleanly.
Air/Nitrogen Contamination (Non-Condensables)
Risk: Moderate. Causes high head pressure that doesn't match any P-T curve. Gauge pressures will be higher than expected for any refrigerant at the measured temperature.
Moisture Contamination
Risk: High. Causes acid formation, copper plating, TXV freeze-up. P-T readings may appear normal but system has other symptoms. Acid test the oil to confirm.