Capturing an Assets Initial Charge
Adding the First Asset Charge
The asset initial charge should be captured when you are creating the asset in Asset Manager.
- Navigate to the Assets (Equipment) module > Manage Assets. The list of assets opens.
- Click the Add button in the upper-right corner.
- Start creating a new asset by filling out the required fields.
- Complete the Initial Charge Info section.
- Total Charge: Enter the current amount of the refrigerant gas contained in the asset in pounds and ounces or in kilograms and grams — depending on the way the settings are configured for you.
- Vendor: Select the provider who identified the initial charge of the system. If the required provider isn’t on the list, click + Add Vendor, and add the provider manually.
Effective Date: Pick the date when the initial charge was done.
The Effective Date of the initial charge cannot be in the future.
- Initial Charge: This checkbox is selected by default, denoting that the total charge you entered earlier will be considered the asset's initial charge amount.
- Description: Method of how the initial charge was taken. Should you be unsure about the method, read Determining the Refrigerant Charge of a Refrigerated Asset below.
Determining the Refrigerant Charge of a Refrigerated Asset
| Method | Definition |
|---|---|
| Calculation | This refers to determining the refrigerant charge based on known system parameters and calculations. This might include using formulas that consider the volume of the system, the type of refrigerant, and other relevant factors. |
| Established | This term indicates a refrigerant charge amount that has been set or confirmed through reliable and consistent methods. It is typically based on historical data, manufacturer specifications, or other authoritative sources. |
| Manufacturer Tag | This is the information provided on the equipment's nameplate by the manufacturer, which includes the recommended refrigerant charge for optimal operation. The manufacturer tag is a reliable source for determining the correct amount of refrigerant. |
| Measurement | This involves directly measuring the amount of refrigerant in the system using appropriate tools and techniques. It provides an accurate assessment of the current refrigerant charge. |
| MFG Info (Established Range) | Manufacturing Information (Established Range) refers to the range of acceptable refrigerant charges provided by the manufacturer. This range accounts for variations in system conditions and ensures the equipment operates efficiently within specified parameters. |
| Onsite Documentation | This includes any records or documentation available at the site that detail the refrigerant charge for the asset. It can include service records, maintenance logs, or other relevant documents that provide information on the refrigerant charge. |
| Approximate | This term indicates an estimated refrigerant charge based on observations, experience, or less precise methods. It is not as accurate as a direct measurement but provides a reasonable estimate for operational purposes. |
Viewing the Asset Initial Charge
- Navigate to the Assets (Equipment) module > Manage Assets. You land on the assets list.
- Click the asset tag ID to navigate to the asset detailed view.
- Switch to the Refrigeration Details tab.
- Scroll down to the Current Charge section. If no additional charges have been added to the system and the Initial Charge box is checked, the quantity you see above the Total Charge is the asset's initial charge.
Adding Follow-Up Charges
Over time, you might need to add a new charge to your asset.
Please note that while an asset has an open leak record, no new charges can be added to the asset.
- Navigate to the Assets (Equipment) module > Manage Assets. You land on the assets list.
- Click the asset tag ID to navigate to the asset detailed view.
- Switch to the Refrigeration Details tab.
- Scroll down to the Current Charge section.
- Click Add Charge.
6. Enter the required information, and then click Save.
