What precautions should be taken prior to recovering refrigerant from chillers suspected of having tube leaks?

Draining the water sides of the evaporator and condenser is crucial when dealing with chillers that may have tube leaks. This precaution helps to prevent water from mixing with the refrigerant during the recovery process, which can result in contamination. Water in refrigerant systems can lead to severe issues such as acid formation, which can damage the system and require extensive repairs.

By removing the water, the technician minimizes the risk of introducing any unwanted substances into the refrigerant recovery system, ensuring that only the refrigerant is captured and that it remains uncontaminated. This step is vital for maintaining the integrity of the refrigerant, protecting the equipment, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations regarding refrigerant recovery.

Maintaining a clean recovery process is essential when managing refrigerants, particularly in the case of potential leaks that could complicate the recovery effort.