Braemar System Replaced in Young

Job summary

A Braemar split system in Young was reported with a refrigerant leak and fault code F0. The unit was assessed on site, pressure tested, found to have a compressor-side leak, and replaced under the quoted scope.

Location
Young
Date completed
July 17, 2026
Technician name
Angus McLennan

Customer report

The tenant reported that the existing Braemar split system had a refrigerant leak and was showing fault code F0. The system was described as having a low refrigerant condition before assessment. On arrival, the technician spoke with the tenant, reset the unit, and carried out checks before the leak was traced to the compressor side of the system.

Diagnosis & technical assessment

The existing Braemar split system was assessed after reports of a refrigerant leak and low refrigerant condition. The technician reset the system and checked operating pressure, which read 50 kPa. A pressure test was then carried out to 3500 kPa, and the flare connections were inspected and held pressure correctly. Further investigation involved isolating the indoor unit to narrow the leak source. The fault was identified at the side of the compressor, where the casing had rusted through and allowed refrigerant loss. Based on the condition of the compressor and the leak location, the unit was assessed as uneconomical to repair.

This job record is derived from first-party technician notes and internal job management systems (SimPRO).

Solutions delivered

The system was written off for repair and replacement was selected as the practical solution. The replacement scope was completed under the quoted works, including installation, commissioning, and testing of the new system. The work followed the assessment that the existing compressor-side leak and rust damage could not be resolved by a limited repair. The completed installation was then tested in operation, and the system was reported to be working well.

Tools, parts & systems used

  • Pressure test to 3500 kPa
  • Braemar system
  • Compressor
  • Indoor unit
  • 3.5kW R32 Cora RC IDU
  • 3.5kW R32 Cora RC ODU

Outcome & results

The existing system was not repaired and the replacement installation was completed to the quoted scope. The unit was commissioned and tested, and the final result was reported as working well. The job closed with the new system operating after the faulted Braemar unit was written off.

All work was carried out in accordance with relevant Australian Standards and manufacturer requirements.

This job record is derived from first-party technician notes and internal job management systems (SimPRO).

Repair vs replacement

Repair is generally suitable when the fault is isolated, the affected component is accessible, and pressure testing confirms the rest of the refrigerant circuit is intact. Replacement becomes the practical option when the leak source is tied to major component damage, corrosion, or a condition that makes the repair uneconomical. In this job, the compressor-side leak and rusted casing supported replacement rather than a partial repair. The final decision depends on fault location, system condition, and whether the equipment can be returned to reliable operation after repair.

If a heating, cooling or refrigeration system shows signs of a fault, such as burning smells, water leaks or tripping power, switch it off where safe and contact a licensed technician.