When using an electronic leak detector, at what rate should the sensor probe be moved to survey for leaks?

When using an electronic leak detector, at what rate should the sensor probe be moved to survey for leaks?

• A. Move the sensor at about 1 inch per second
• B. Move the sensor at about 3 inches per second
• C. Keep the probe stationary
• D. Move the sensor at about 1 inch per minute

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that the leak detector needs time to sample the air and respond if refrigerant is present. Moving the sensor slowly allows the detector to register even small leaks as you pass over joints, fittings, and suspected areas. If you sweep too quickly, the detector may miss a leak because the probe doesn’t dwell long enough near the source. Keeping the probe nearly stationary wouldn’t survey the area at all, and sweeping too fast reduces sensitivity. So, the recommended practice is to move the sensor very slowly—about one inch per minute—so you can thoroughly survey every potential leak path and catch faint indications.

The main idea here is that the leak detector needs time to sample the air and respond if refrigerant is present. Moving the sensor slowly allows the detector to register even small leaks as you pass over joints, fittings, and suspected areas. If you sweep too quickly, the detector may miss a leak because the probe doesn’t dwell long enough near the source. Keeping the probe nearly stationary wouldn’t survey the area at all, and sweeping too fast reduces sensitivity. So, the recommended practice is to move the sensor very slowly—about one inch per minute—so you can thoroughly survey every potential leak path and catch faint indications.