What is a common sign of tube leakage in refrigeration systems?

A common sign of tube leakage in refrigeration systems is the presence of excessive moisture in the purge unit. When there is a leak in the system, refrigerant can escape, and this often allows moisture from the surrounding environment to enter the system. Refrigerants are typically designed to operate in a closed environment, and when moisture enters, it can cause various issues such as corrosion, ice formation, and reduced efficiency. The purge unit, which is responsible for removing non-condensables and moisture from the refrigerant, will indicate a problem if it is becoming filled with excessive amounts of moisture, thus raising a red flag about potential leaks.

Other signs, like low refrigerant pressure, can also occur due to system malfunctions, not exclusively due to tube leakage. Unusual noises from the compressor might suggest mechanical issues or operational problems rather than directly indicating leakage. Similarly, high energy consumption could occur due to inefficiencies or operational stresses but would not specifically point to tube leakage. Therefore, the presence of excessive moisture in the purge unit stands out as a clear and direct indicator of tube leakage in refrigeration systems.