GX-K2 Refrigerant Leak Detector

The refrigerant warning device with external sensor: place the sensor directly at the potential leakage source, for R32 on heat pumps and air-conditioning systems

The Schabus GX-K2 is a plug-in refrigerant warning device with an external sensor for detecting fluorinated refrigerants (HFCs/HFCs). It monitors the ambient air for escaping refrigerants and coolants and already warns at low concentrations. The target gas is R-32; the sensor also responds to many other refrigerants.

The special feature of the GX-K2 is the sensor head: it is connected to the plug-in unit via a cable and can be mounted where it measures best – close to the potential leakage source and matched to the properties of the refrigerant – without structural measures. In the event of a leak, the GX-K2 warns optically with a red flashing LED and, if the concentration continues to rise, additionally acoustically with a loud alarm tone. After the warm-up phase of approximately 3 to 5 minutes it is ready for operation.

Sensor where refrigerant can escape

Which refrigerants the GX-K2 detects

The sensor detects numerous common refrigerants and also responds to other gases.

Refrigerants

• R-32 (target gas)
• R-410A, R-404A, R-407C, R-454B
• R-1234yf, R-1234ze
• R-290 (propane)
• R-22
• Other fluorinated refrigerants (HFCs/HFCs)

Cross-sensitivities

• Methane, butane and propane
• Ethanol and hydrogen
• Other hydrocarbons
• Certain sprays or vapours

Sensitivity and therefore the trigger concentration differ depending on the type of gas. The GX-K2 does not detect carbon monoxide and does not replace a CO detector.

What is included in the box

The GX-K2 is ready for immediate use. The device has no options and no additional variants.

• Refrigerant warning device GX-K2 (plug-in unit)
• External sensor with 2.5 m sensor cable, not extendable
• Mounting material for the external sensor (screw and plug)
• Operating instructions

How the GX-K2 is constructed

The system consists of two parts: the plug-in unit in the socket and the external sensor, which is connected via the cable. The plug-in unit contains no parts that you need to maintain or repair and must not be opened.

Correct placement and commissioning

With the GX-K2 the position of the external sensor is decisive. The height depends on the refrigerant used.

Where the sensor belongs

• General: Mount the sensor close to the potential leakage source and matched to the properties of the refrigerant
• Gases heavier than air (for example R-290/propane sinks to the floor, spreads in a similar way to water and collects in depressions): sensor 15 to 30 cm above the floor
• Gases lighter than air: sensor 15 to 30 cm below the ceiling and above the highest door or window opening in the room
• Distance to the monitored system: maximum 4 m
• Sensor cable: It is 2.5 m long and not extendable. Choose the socket and sensor position accordingly
• Check the refrigerant: Obtain information from the manufacturer of your refrigeration or air-conditioning system about the refrigerant used and its properties. The position does not affect the way the device works, but it does affect the measurement results

Where the device must not be operated

• In draughts, next to doors, windows or ventilation openings
• Directly next to a cooker or above a sink
• In locations where dust, dirt or covered sensor openings could impair function
• Outdoors or in locations with rain, splash water or condensation, also not directly next to the outdoor unit of a heat pump
• In potentially explosive atmospheres

Installation and commissioning

1. Mount the external sensor close to the potential leakage source with the supplied screw.
2. Plug the warning device into a socket. A short alarm tone is heard.
3. Wait for the warm-up phase of approximately 3 to 5 minutes. During this time the green LED flashes.
4. Only when the green LED lights continuously is the device ready for operation. After an interruption of the power supply the warm-up phase starts again.
5. Note: Transport, prolonged storage or moisture can influence the start-up behaviour. In the event of an alarm, first follow the instructions for behaviour in the event of an alarm. A restart may only be carried out once an actual gas leak has been ruled out. In the event of a repeated alarm or uncertainty, contact Schabus Support.

What the LEDs mean and how to test

Function test

In the ready-for-operation state, press the TEST button and check whether the LED indicators and the acoustic sounder respond. The TEST button checks the LEDs and buzzer, not the sensor. Check the sensor function on the external sensor with a suitable test medium (R32 test aerosol) and observe the application instructions of the test agent manufacturer. The test gas must diffuse into the air inlet slots of the sensor. Do not gas the sensor directly with lighter gas; strong direct gassing damages the sensor. The manufacturer recommends a monthly function test.

What to do in the event of an alarm or suspected gas leak?

Take the warning seriously and protect people first:

1. Warn people: Warn other people and leave the affected area.
2. Avoid ignition sources: Do not light any flames, do not operate any electrical switches and do not unplug the warning device from the socket.
3. Ventilate if safe to do so: Open doors and windows only if this is possible without endangering yourself.
4. Have the cause checked: Have the refrigeration, air-conditioning or heat pump system checked for leaks by a specialised company.
5. Return only after clearance: Re-enter the area only when the danger has been eliminated, the cause has been clarified and clearance has been given by emergency services or specialists.
6. In the event of acute danger or symptoms, call the emergency number 112 from a safe distance.

With the TEST button you mute the alarm tone. The red LED continues to flash as long as gas is detected. Muting does not eliminate the gas exposure or its cause.

When the sensor triggers without a recognisable leak

Other gases and vapours can also trigger the sensor, for example certain sprays. Nevertheless, always treat a warning initially as a possible gas leak and clarify the cause.

What the warning device does not replace

• The GX-K2 does not detect carbon monoxide and does not replace a CO detector
• It is not explosion-proof and is not approved for potentially explosive atmospheres
• It is not an outdoor detector
• It does not replace the proper installation, maintenance and servicing of the monitored refrigeration, air-conditioning or heat pump system
• An alarm does not indicate which gas caused the warning
• The manufacturer is not liable for damage caused by improper use, modifications to the device or failure to observe the operating instructions

Cleaning, care and sensor service life

Cleaning and care

• Check the sensor openings regularly for dust and dirt and do not cover the device or the sensor
• Clean the housing with a dry, soft cloth, which may be slightly dampened in the case of heavier soiling
• Wipe only the housing and keep the sensor openings dry
• Do not use solvent-based cleaners
• Avoid moisture, splash and rain water as well as direct sunlight
• Do not allow moisture to enter the device or the sensor
• Do not open the plug-in unit; it contains no parts that you need to maintain. Do not extend or modify the sensor cable

Sensor service life and inspection date

The sensor service life is approximately 5 years. The date with month and year on the sensor indicates the next inspection date. The external sensor can be replaced by the user. Coordinate the factory inspection or sensor replacement in good time with Schabus Support.

Manufacturer’s notes

• Read the operating instructions carefully before installation and commissioning and keep them; they form part of the product. Pass the device on to third parties only together with the instructions
• The device is operated with 230 V mains voltage; installation must be carried out by a qualified specialist
• Do not open or modify the device
• Keep the sensor openings clear
• Match the mounting position of the sensor to the refrigerant used
• Packaging material is not a toy and does not belong in children’s hands. Children and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities may only use the device under supervision or after instruction in safe use
• Intended for residential buildings and living spaces, commercial and sales rooms as well as rooms of small businesses that are connected to the public low-voltage network
• For other applications, contact Schabus Support before use
• The declaration of conformity is available for download on the manufacturer’s website

Warranty, guarantee and disposal

The GX-K2 is covered by the statutory warranty of at least 2 years in the EU. The manufacturer Elektrotechnik Schabus additionally offers a 5-year guarantee that can be registered online. Repairs and spare parts are available directly from the manufacturer, even beyond the statutory warranty. The prerequisite is that the device has been used in accordance with the operating instructions. Damage caused by improper use, modifications to the device, external influences or unauthorised repairs is excluded.

The GX-K2 does not belong in household waste. At the end of its service life, hand it in at a suitable collection point for waste electrical equipment (WEEE Reg. No. DE91394868) and dispose of the packaging separately according to material type. Information is available from your city or municipality.

Why the GX-K2 is suitable

Areas of application

• Heat pumps
• Private air-conditioning systems
• Refrigeration systems and refrigeration units
• Cold rooms
• Technical rooms
• Private and commercial applications in dry indoor areas

The Schabus GX-K2: sensor in the right place, detect leaks early.

Frequently asked questions