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Installation and Evacuation Procedures Flashcards

7 cards from real Air Conditioning Repair practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Installation and Evacuation Procedures flashcards as text
  1. What is the purpose of the 'decay test' (also called a 'rise test') performed after reaching target vacuum?

    Answer: To verify system tightness by monitoring micron levels after pump isolation

    After isolating the vacuum pump, micron levels are monitored for 15–30 minutes; a stable reading confirms system integrity, while a rise indicates leaks or moisture.

  2. When sizing the electrical disconnect for an outdoor condensing unit, the technician should reference:

    Answer: The unit's Maximum Overcurrent Protection (MOP) rating on the nameplate

    The unit nameplate lists the MOP (Maximum Overcurrent Protection) value, which determines the correct fuse or breaker size for the disconnect.

  3. Refrigerant line sets should be supported at intervals not exceeding:

    Answer: Every 4–6 feet horizontally and every 8–10 feet vertically

    Proper support prevents sagging, vibration fatigue, and potential kinks; horizontal runs need support every 4–6 feet and vertical runs every 8–10 feet.

  4. What problem occurs when refrigerant suction line velocities are too low in a vertical riser?

    Answer: Compressor oil fails to return and accumulates in the evaporator

    Oil circulates with refrigerant; insufficient velocity in vertical suction risers allows oil to drain back to the evaporator instead of returning to the compressor.

  5. A technician finds that the vacuum gauge reads 300 microns but then rises to 1,500 microns and stabilizes. This most likely indicates:

    Answer: Moisture is present in the system (outgassing)

    A vacuum that rises then stabilizes at a mid-range level (not continuing to rise) indicates moisture outgassing — the water is vaporizing and raising pressure until it is pulled out.

  6. According to NEC requirements, the minimum wire gauge for a typical 240V, 30-amp residential AC circuit is:

    Answer: 10 AWG copper

    NEC requires 10 AWG copper conductors for a 30-amp, 240V circuit to safely carry the load without excessive voltage drop or heat buildup.

  7. When installing a heat pump in a northern climate, the outdoor unit base should be elevated above grade to:

    Answer: Prevent ice and snow from blocking the unit during defrost cycles

    Elevating the outdoor unit on a raised pad or legs keeps it above typical snow accumulation levels, ensuring airflow and preventing ice blockage during defrost.