After installing any type of refrigerant system, what should the unit first be?

After installing any type of refrigerant system, the first step should be to pressurize the unit with an inert gas, such as nitrogen, and then perform a leak check. This procedure is essential for ensuring the integrity of the refrigerant system. By introducing nitrogen, technicians can safely test for leaks without the risk of introducing refrigerants, which could be hazardous to the environment and health.

Pressurizing with nitrogen allows the technician to detect any potential leaks in the system's components or connections. If any leaks are found, they can be addressed before the refrigerant is charged into the system, which is critical for preventing system failures and ensuring efficient operation.

In contrast, filling the system with refrigerant before confirming that it is leak-free could lead to the loss of refrigerant through leaks, which is not only wasteful but also poses regulatory compliance issues under the Clean Air Act. Leaving the system to settle or connecting it to the power source without confirming the integrity of the system could lead to complications that could affect system performance and safety. Therefore, the correct first step after installation is to pressurize with nitrogen and check for leaks.