Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In this video, we break down what a proper refrigerant leak detection process actually looks like — and spoiler: it starts long before you ever pull out the detector.
Whether you're a seasoned tech or still building your skills, these leak detection tips will sharpen how you approach every service call. We cover the step-by-step process that too many technicians skip: checking standing pressure before you do anything else, using all your senses (yes, your ears too), performing a thorough visual inspection for oil stains, kinks, and physical damage, and knowing when to reach for nitrogen and trace gas.
We also get into the real-world scenarios — frozen coils, systems that are completely flat by the time you arrive, leaks hidden under insulation, and lines running underground. Plus, the common mistakes that waste hours on a job site (like walking around with your detector while you're on a 10-minute phone call ).
Key topics covered:
Pre-detection checklist — standing pressure, visual inspection, system state
Using your eyes AND ears to locate refrigerants
Running vs. off system — why it matters for detection accuracy
When and how to use nitrogen and trace gas
Isolation technique for stubborn, hard-to-find leaks
Knowing your equipment and maintaining your detector properly
If you want to stop missing leaks that other techs have already given up on, this one's for you.
Read all the tech tips, take the quizzes, and find our handy calculators at hvacrschool.com or the HVAC School Mobile App on the Google Play Store (hvacrschool.com/play-store) or App Store (hvacrschool.com/app-store).
In this video, we break down what a proper refrigerant leak detection process actually looks like — and spoiler: it starts long before you ever pull out the detector.
Whether you're a seasoned tech or still building your skills, these leak detection tips will sharpen how you approach every service call. We cover the step-by-step process that too many technicians skip: checking standing pressure before you do anything else, using all your senses (yes, your ears too), performing a thorough visual inspection for oil stains, kinks, and physical damage, and knowing when to reach for nitrogen and trace gas.
We also get into the real-world scenarios — frozen coils, systems that are completely flat by the time you arrive, leaks hidden under insulation, and lines running underground. Plus, the common mistakes that waste hours on a job site (like walking around with your detector while you're on a 10-minute phone call ).
Key topics covered:
Pre-detection checklist — standing pressure, visual inspection, system state
Using your eyes AND ears to locate refrigerants
Running vs. off system — why it matters for detection accuracy
When and how to use nitrogen and trace gas
Isolation technique for stubborn, hard-to-find leaks
Knowing your equipment and maintaining your detector properly
If you want to stop missing leaks that other techs have already given up on, this one's for you.
Read all the tech tips, take the quizzes, and find our handy calculators at hvacrschool.com or the HVAC School Mobile App on the Google Play Store (hvacrschool.com/play-store) or App Store (hvacrschool.com/app-store).
