Nitrogen can be used to pressurize or blow debris out of a system containing a half charge of refrigerant.

Nitrogen can be used to pressurize or blow debris out of a system containing a half charge of refrigerant.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with professional supervision
• D. Never

Answer: (B)

Introducing nitrogen into a system that still contains refrigerant is not safe. If the system isn’t fully recovered, adding an inert gas under pressure increases the internal pressure and can force refrigerant out through connections, leaks, or relief devices, potentially releasing refrigerant to the atmosphere and creating hazards for people and the environment. Nitrogen purging is appropriate only after the refrigerant has been recovered and the system is evacuated, so the line can be cleared of moisture and debris without risking refrigerant release. That’s why the statement is not correct.

Introducing nitrogen into a system that still contains refrigerant is not safe. If the system isn’t fully recovered, adding an inert gas under pressure increases the internal pressure and can force refrigerant out through connections, leaks, or relief devices, potentially releasing refrigerant to the atmosphere and creating hazards for people and the environment. Nitrogen purging is appropriate only after the refrigerant has been recovered and the system is evacuated, so the line can be cleared of moisture and debris without risking refrigerant release. That’s why the statement is not correct.