This is a video I made on properly calculating the flooded charge of a system with a head pressure control valve installed. I used the Sporlan document 90-30-1 to calculate everything out.
Find the 90-30-1 document here https://www.parker.com/literature/Sporlan/Sporlan%20pdf%20files/Sporlan%20pdf%20090/90-30-1.pdf
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All right so today we are gon na be going over how to calculate the flooded charge of a condensing unit that has a head pressure control valve on it. We are gon na be basically following the instructions and the spoil in 90-30, one document verbatim pretty much. Okay, you get this document from spore lens website. I'll also have a link in the show notes of the video you guys can go and get it yourself.

Okay, so I basically highlighted a few things and just a reiterate: this is the spore'ln document - 90-30, one. Okay, so I highlighted a few things inside this document that I basic instructions that we're gon na follow. Okay number one we're dealing with a completely flooded, condenser, okay and then you're, just gon na follow the instructions from that point all right. So it's gon na tell you to get the length of tubing the return bends and the condenser.

You need to know the minimum ambient temperature what the system is going to operate. Okay, that's gon na affect the density factor of the refrigerant. We also need to know the tubing size and wall thickness and the refrigerant type. Okay and then you're, just gon na follow these instructions, and it gives you an example with some demo numbers.

So that way, you can do the math with yours and with these demo numbers and see if you can come up with the same example: okay, so we're going to go through that right now when it comes to needing the the density factor of the refrigerant okay, What you're gon na do is you're gon na find on the next chart over you're gon na find the minimum ambient temperature this. For our example, the system that I was working on was in Irvine, California, so the absolute extreme lowest temperature we're gon na get in Irvine. California is 20 degrees, okay, and that number is gon na. You just basically follow it over to determine your density factor of your refrigerant, okay and we are using our 22 refrigerant.

So the density factor of our refrigerant is point of our ya. Is point zero, five, two okay and then you also need to find the total equivalent length of the refrigerant tubing. So in our video, like I show you, we have 3/8 tubing, so we follow the chart down and you basically find out that for 3/8 tubing, the total equivalent length is point two zero zero. So with that being said, we're going to with the video - and hopefully this makes sense for you guys, okay, so we're gon na measure, the flat of the condenser run okay, so they come on over and that's 30 and a half.

So thirty point five we'll take that number and then we're gon na count how many straight pieces of pipe there is, and also how many return bends there. Okay. So now we're gon na count the pieces of straight pipe one. Two, three, four: five: six, seven, eight! Nine 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, so there's 36 pieces of straight pipe and it's 3/8 inch in diameter.

So now that we have that number, we can also count our return bends so return bends. We're gon na go ahead and count this as 1. 2. 3.
4. 5. 6. 7.

8. 9. 10. 11.

12. 13. 14. 15.

16. Sixteen returned Vince, then we got to come over to the other side and do the same count over here. Alright. So on this side, one two: three: four: five: six: seven: eight: nine ten, eleven twelve thirteen fourteen fifteen.

Sixteen seventeen eighteen return vents. So then, we'll sit down and do those numbers out on a paper and we'll explain the process. Okay. So now that we have the measurements for the condenser, we'll do the math and we'll figure that out.

The next thing we need to know is what our by-paths pressure of the headmaster had pressure. Control valve is 180 psi, so on a proper startup on this system. What we would do is we would vacuum it down. You know all that good stuff.

Okay, once we pass our decay test, we're gon na go ahead and add refrigerant to the system when we add refrigerant to the system, we're actually going to probably shut off the condenser fan, motor or block it off one or the other and we're gon na. Let the system operate while we're adding gas turn it on you're, adding you know, through the vapor side or through the suction side, you're gon na, add refrigerant and we're going to get our head pressure above 200 head pressure, 200 psi or exactly 180 psi. Once we get above that, we know that the head pressure control valve is not going to bypass and we simulate. You know we block off the condenser to do so.

We keep adding gas until we clear our sight glass when we clear our sight, glass above 200, head pressure or 200 psi in again, whatever the stamped number is. So if this is a newer headmaster, I might say 150 psi, okay, but just whatever that number is. You need to be above that number clear, the sight glass. Then we know we have the proper operating charge for the system.

If we weren't by passing on our head pressure control valve okay, then that's when the calculation comes in, we add the winter charge after we've cleared the sight glass above the bypass pressure of that guy, and obviously the system needs to be close to being down to Temp then we add the winter charge, which is whatever we do with the mathematic calculation. That would be called our flooded charge. We add that to the system, then we know that we're properly charged, if that had pressure control valve, was to ever bypass okay. So the first thing we do is we're just calculated in our numbers out: okay, so the total measured length, a straight tubing was 30 and a half inches.

We measured that out or thirty point five inches. Then we got to convert that to feet because that was an inches okay, so we're gon na take basically 30 point five and divide it by 12 inches, which equals two point five four feet of measured straight tube. Then we need to multiply the two point. Five four feet by the total number of straight tubes of 36.
Okay. So to do that number! Basically, we come up with 36 times two point: five four feet equals ninety one point four four feet of measured straight tubing: okay, then we're gon na take our return. Bends and we count it out and when you add up the two numbers that I came up with, we come up with 34 Total Return bends. Okay, we take our total equivalent length of each return, Bend and that's point: two: zero zero feet per return Bend.

We multiply that by the total amount of return, bends, 34 return. Bends times point two: zero zero feet equals six point: eight feet of total length of copper tubing inside the return bins. Okay, then we're gon na met we're gon na add up that 6.8 feet, plus the total measured length so 91.44 feet, plus the 6.8 feet equals ninety eight point: two four feet of calculated refrigerant tubing. All right, then we're gon na take the total calculated length.

Multiply it by the density factor which we found on the chart for our twenty two refrigerant at the minimum, ambient temperature, which was twenty degrees. So ninety eight point, two four feet times: point zero. Five two equals five point: one one pounds of our twenty two refrigerant and to make it a little bit easier on ourselves. That is not five pounds, eleven ounces.

That is five point one one pounds. So let's go ahead and convert that over to pounds and ounces. So basically take the five point: one pounds: okay, drop the five pounds and take the point. One one pounds multiply it by sixteen ounces and you come up with one point: seven: six: ounces; okay! So that's five pounds and we're gon na round that number up just to make our life easy, so we're basically gon na go total winter charge is five pounds.

Two ounces of our 22 refrigerant all right, so hopefully that didn't confuse the hell out of you and it kind of makes sense. Okay, it's really not that hard of a calculation to do, but the first time you do it it's gon na. Take you a good half-hour, 45 minutes and then every time after that is gon na get quicker and quicker. Honestly, by the time you figure out how to do that, it's gon na end up taking you longer to measure everything out.

Then it actually has to do the math really quick, okay, so yeah, that's pretty much it. I really appreciate you guys taking the time to watch this video. This has been something that people have asked me about before now. What I would HIGHLY highly suggest is is once you've calculated this amount and you've added it to the system on top of the normal summer charge.

Okay, I would can highly suggest that you mark that receiver. Okay, so that way, you can pump it down, find the liquid level in the receiver anytime after that, and know that this is gon na, be the properly calculated flooded charge all right that way, it just makes it easier on yourself and and again I've told you Guys, the method of heating up the receiver, you have to use some kind of heat producing device that doesn't exceed the temperature of the soft plug on the receiver. You're gon na pump the system down store all the refrigerant and the receiver then basically take that heat. Producing device go up and down the receiver once or twice and then take the back of your hand and starting at the bottom, feel up the receiver until you feel the high temperature mark and that's gon na be the liquid level in the receiver.
So once you've calculated properly the flooded charge using the 90 30 one method, I would highly suggest you mark the receiver with a paint marker. So then, from that point forward, if you ever have a leak in the system, you know that you just need to fill up to that marked level. Another method to that you could do is putting the maximum amount of refrigerant in the system which you would have to lean on the refrigerant manufacturer or the system manufacturer to find out what the total maximum charge is. Then you put that amount, and you know you can't add any more gas to the system and if the system was properly charged right, that'll be more than enough gas to properly flood the condenser during the winter time.

Okay, that's pretty much! It guys see you guys later.

43 thoughts on “Walk in cooler winter charge”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Adam Spears says:

    What if you had a thermal camera?
    Could you view the reciever with a thermal camera to know where to mark the winter charge with a paint marker?

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mike jones says:

    I was talking to main tech at Mantiwoc and they were laughing about a winter charge. Come in now!! Seriously a winter charge? Manufacturers says thatโ€™s laughable

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars CAD WERKS says:

    I'm sure you can create Google Sheet/excel table with Formulas, now can just enter the data to obtain the capacity required.

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars XRAY Bravo says:

    Does the winter charge for freezers cause high side problem during warmer or hotter days later ? Are you in Nepean ?

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sherwin Alvarez says:

    Where did you get the total length of return bends number from. That was the only part i didn't get. Do you measure the bend because i didn't see you do that. Or are all bends 2 inches.

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Tony Dibiaso says:

    Just add charge…block condenser…add a little more…same thing less work

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mitch Holder says:

    How did you find the estimated tube bend lenght of .200!?!?

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Michael Venard says:

    Here's another method for units with headmasters. Leave CFM running and block off air flow thru the coil. Add gas until your liquid temp holds steady at 110 – 120 degrees. Unblock the coil. Then estimate the gas volume of the condenser coil and add that much more gas. Put a fork in it. Been doing it this way for 20 plus years and have never had any issues. Try it at low ambient in the winter and return in the summer and your pressures will be right where they should be for the surrounding ambient temperature. Ambient plus 30 degrees +/- 10 degrees. Service area Orleans??

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ZuffaLtdDanaWhite says:

    I like your old method using 80% fill of your receiver. Pump down into receiver, warm up receiver, and point your temp gun to see if youโ€™re at 80% fill capacity.. approximately. What happened to that method?

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Hupp Hutt says:

    New subscriber, I very much enjoy and appreciate your help. Thank you for all that you do for our industry.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nick Brotchie says:

    Tech school noted that the winter charge is equal to 10% above the total system charge. Is this accurate and if so,knowing our total system charge is this a safe scenario. Thx

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sean Mack says:

    Here it gets -20 with wind chill. Typically I just charge 90 percent receiver, most outdoor condensing units have a receiver sized for 50 ft of lineset and the solenoid is located at the evaporator.

    Really good explanation on the right way of doing it.

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeffrey Emmert says:

    Cool. simple, good job explaining, thanks for all your hard work.

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jason C says:

    That's awesome video. I wish my current boss have half of the knowledge you do. He dont use micron guage, uses dye for leak search, doesnt flow nitro when brazing. everything he trys to tech me is not by the books is more of his way. I left residential went to Refrigeration a month ago. I really enjoy learning and do things the right way. My biggest problem is working under a guy like him. His is my boss and I have to respect him but in the same time I dont agree with him but as a new guy in the field I keep my mouth shut. I watch alot of yours and norcal Dave's videos. I have very high level of respect for you two. Taking time out of your busy day to give knowledge for guys like me. I thought about leaving but it took me a long time to find a Refrigeration company would give me a chance. Most refrigeration companies I applied for wont give me a time of day. So is slim picking for me. What would your advice be for my current position? I would appreciate any feedback thanks

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Baba Joey says:

    heyย ย  mateย  I haveย  a questionย  can I use gas R134Aย  insteadย ย of ย R22ย ย  ย without replace the compressorย  or use same ย compressorย  thanks

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ed says:

    Excellent video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars dean Mohamed says:

    No confusion at all. Perfect explanation. It makes total sense. Thanks Chris

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Harry Dickson says:

    ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars 404 Refrigeration & HVAC Services says:

    Good video Chris, thanks.

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars FERNANDO vega says:

    Thank you so much Chris. Very very fantastic video.

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Whites heating & air & appliance repair says:

    Thank you for taking the time to do the video.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Andrew Hicks says:

    Chris, have you devised a similar calculation for a microchannel coil yet? We usually just clear the sightglass then add an extra 10%…. Maybe not exact science but it has worked for me with no issue Are you in Kanata ?

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bill Burnett says:

    Awesome dude. A coworker and I were discussing winter charge just this morning. I'm gonna send him the link to the video. Thanks for another great one bud!!!

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rome87 says:

    Your content is always next level bro, top notch, they should make refrigeration receivers with a built in sight glass and fill line that you could charge to Service area Ottawa??

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Frank says:

    Very helpful !!

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Clint Glasgow says:

    ๐Ÿ‘

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars HVAC/TRUCKER Rodney says:

    Thanks Chris it's is confusing just have to keep replaying this video. But I like your way. Lol I ran in to my 1st headmaster system last week. I told my boss that the compressor sounds like it's bypassing the valves he said that will happen when there is a headmaster will that be true?
    2nd question is where do you take the sc&sh at? I do my SC after the headmaster and after the receiver same SH after the receiver. I know we're not going to be able to get the right measurements but the boss wants to know the numbers anyways and I get my superheat at the evaporator as well. See you later on the live stream.

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Eddy says:

    As usual … Great info …

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars david1700000 says:

    I did charge with both pressures reading, clear sight glass and confirm the box temps before, thank you show me the right way! sometimes the unit has run years(not perfect), so still need to confirm the pressure and box temps later. what is total manufacture charge for that unit? thanks!

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars nathan davey says:

    Chris, awesome video brother. I appreciate all the videos you put out. You are definitely one of the top three or four HVAC channels on YouTube. Keep it up brother!!!!

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ricky Ramzan says:

    Thank U for your time… Very informative… Are you in Orleans ?

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ricardo Javier Ramos Morua says:

    You confused the hek out of me, but good video

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bob D says:

    Steel sharpens steel, thanks brother, great info.

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Reyvel Trejo says:

    Chris!!..thanks for this awesome videos ..honestly Iโ€™m not reviewing my tech books ๐Ÿ“š any more ..I just go to your Chanel..

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars GREGO B-TEAM says:

    Awesome explanation of how to calculate winter charge๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿผ

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sakman Du says:

    Sweet!

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars DeafHVACR SoCal says:

    Love this very informative, Chris !

    Thanks ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘ Service area Barrhaven??

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ็Ÿณ็ฃŠ says:

    thank you sir very helpful.

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jose Juliรกn says:

    Chris, I am just starting out and I found myself trying to figure out how much refrigerant is in a residential unit, well the data plate says it but I wanted to know the distribution throughout the system and I did almost the same thing to figure it out. I did it on my own and had no idea there were books for that, guess I will wait til I get to the commercial side for that. Thx a bunch. Guess I am not alone

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars HVACR Survival says:

    ๐Ÿ“ฝ๐ŸŽฌ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป. When it's "Ohio" cold, I can't feel the temp change when I run my torch down the reciever. I can do it 3 times or 15 times, all feels the same. Does it work better at certain outdoor temps?

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alex R says:

    ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Miracle says:

    Very informative! Thanks for all your explanation!

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars McCutcheon Services LLC says:

    Well done sir ๐Ÿ‘ Service area Kanata??

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