Refrigerant Leak Detection & Evaporator Coil Inspection in Irvine, CA | Nitrogen Pressure Test

In this video, we take you to Irvine, California, for a detailed refrigerant leak search on a residential central HVAC system that was found to have almost no refrigerant left.

After confirming the system was extremely low, we performed a nitrogen pressure test to safely pressurize the unit and begin a complete inspection. We first checked the outdoor condenser for visible oil residue, since refrigerant leaks typically leave oil spots behind. After finding no signs outside, we moved into the attic to inspect the indoor equipment.

The indoor unit consists of a gas furnace paired with an evaporator coil. Once we removed the access panel and opened the coil cabinet, we performed a thorough visual inspection. Inside the drain pan area, we noticed slight oil residue — a common indicator of refrigerant leakage.

Looking closer at the evaporator coil itself, we identified a visible oily spot. To confirm the exact location, we used an electronic leak detector, which immediately detected refrigerant in that same area. This confirmed a significant evaporator coil leak.

Due to the size of the leak, the recommended solution is evaporator coil replacement.

🔧 Project Highlights:
• System Diagnosis: Confirmed unit nearly empty of refrigerant
• Pressure Testing: Nitrogen added to safely pressurize the system
• Outdoor Inspection: Checked condenser for oil residue
• Attic Inspection: Located indoor unit (gas furnace + evaporator coil)
• Visual Confirmation: Identified oil contamination in drain pan
• Leak Detection: Electronic leak detector confirmed coil leak
• Recommendation: Evaporator coil replacement

🛠 System Details:
• Type: Central HVAC System
• Configuration: Split System (Outdoor Condenser + Indoor Furnace & Coil)
• Indoor Equipment: Gas Furnace with Evaporator Coil
• Leak Location: Evaporator Coil (Confirmed)
• Diagnostic Method: Nitrogen Pressure Test + Electronic Leak Detection