TRUE ICE SERVICE MANUAL
TEC_TM_198 | REV. A | EN 03/26/2024 Page 13 of 96
truemfg.com
Good Refrigeration Practices (cont.)
R290 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you need specialized training to service R-290?
No. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ruled
specialized training is not required to service R-290, but it is
recommended. (North America)
2. Where do I go for training?
TRUE offers the R-290/600a Service manual at truemfg.com/
support/manuals, as well as training videos on our YouTube
channel True Manufacturing Technical Service.
3. What tools are needed to service HC appliances? Are any
specialized tools required?
Standard refrigeration tools are required (pinch-off tool,
nitrogen, vacuum pump, micron gauge, torches, soap bubbles,
manifold set, tube cutter, etc.) Only two (2) specialized tools are
required for servicing HC appliances:
• Combustible gas meter or HC leak detector.
• Available through most HVAC supply houses or through
True Parts. Order P#965087.
• Safety placard advising of no smoking or open flames.
True offers the Hydrocarbon Service Kit P#830699
(pictured below)
4. Is there a maximum charge amount for applicants
with R-290? Yes, The maximum charge is 5.3 oz (150 g) per
refrigerant system. For example, a GDM-10 has a 1.9 oz (53.9 g).
5. How do I tell if the system I am working on is built with
R-290? Are there special markings?
Yes, there are special indicators the appliance is built with
R-290.
• Serial label indicates refrigerant type
• Multiple labels stating the appliance is built with HC
refrigerant
• Red sleeves on the process tubes (North America)
6. Will I need different gauges for an R-290 system?
No, you can use a R-134a manifold set. Due to the small
system charge amounts, TRUE recommends using the shortest
hoses possible. True provides 12” (304.8 mm) hoses in the
Hydrocarbon Service Kit.
7. Do I have to recover R-290 refrigerant?
No, you do not have to recover HC refrigerant.
8. How do I leak check an R-290 system?
You mostly leak check an R-290 system the same way
you would an R-134a/404A system. You can still use a
bubble solution or an ultrasonic leak detector as well. True
recommends using oxygen-free dry nitrogen with a trace gas
not exceeding 200 psi (13.8 bar).
• Exception #1: You cannot use a halide leak detector on an
R-290 system
• Exception #2: Your electronic leak detector must be
designed specifically for combustible gas
9. Where can I get R-290 refrigerant?
For True warranty repairs, you can get refrigerant directly from
True Parts. You can also source the refrigerant from an HVAC
supply house or a company that sells gasses and welding
supplies.
NOTE: If you are getting refrigerant somewhere besides True,
be sure to purchase refrigerant grade.
10. What is the difference between R-290 and standard
propane from a hardware store?
R-290 is a much higher purity than standard propane; this
level is greater than 97.5%. R-290 has a low moisture content;
moisture damages the refrigeration system and components.
Also, R-290 is odorless, unlike standard propane.
11. Can I retrofit older appliances to R-290?
No, retrofitting existing equipment is prohibited.
12. Can I use the same parts to service HC appliances that I
use for R-134a/404A appliances?
Not necessarily. True recommends using original equipment
manufacturer (OEM) parts by specific model number. Parts
used on HC appliances must meet specific UL certifications for
non-incendive or non-sparking components.
System Contamination Clean-Up
1. Remove refrigerant from the ice machine.
2. Remove compressor from the refrigeration system.
3. Check the odor and appearance of the oil.
4. If no signs of contamination are present, perform an acid oil
test to determine the type of cleanup required.
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