What is the maximum allowable annual leak rate for a low-pressure chiller before it must be repaired?

The correct answer is 10 percent. For low-pressure chillers, regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establish that a system must be repaired if it exceeds this leak rate. This standard is part of the efforts to minimize refrigerant emissions, which are harmful to the environment and contribute to ozone depletion and climate change.

Setting the maximum allowable leak rate at 10 percent ensures that systems are maintained and repaired promptly to preserve efficiency and limit environmental impact. If a unit is leaking refrigerant at a higher rate, it indicates potential operational issues and inefficiencies, prompting the need for timely repairs to restore optimal functionality and reduce harmful emissions.

Other higher percentages do not align with the regulations governing refrigerant management for low-pressure equipment.