FAT & SAT Checklist for Refrigeration Equipment

FAT — Factory Acceptance Test

Performed at the manufacturer's plant before shipment. Verifies design compliance, functional operation, safety devices and documentation. Attended by buyer or buyer's inspector.

• Visual and dimensional inspection vs approved drawings
• Nameplate data vs PO and specifications
• Refrigeration circuit pressure test (leak, strength)
• Electrical continuity, insulation and earth-bonding tests
• Controller and alarm functional test (all setpoints)
• Safety device operation (HP cut-out, oil pressure, level)
• No-load run at design conditions where practical
• Documentation review (as-built, wiring, P&ID, manuals)

SAT — Site Acceptance Test

Performed at the installed site after commissioning. Verifies performance under actual load, ambient and integration with site utilities. Sign-off starts the warranty clock.

• Site pre-conditions check (power, water, drainage, ventilation)
• Refrigerant charge verification and leak check
• Cool-down curve to design temperature
• Steady-state hold at design load (24–72 h)
• Energy consumption vs guaranteed SEC
• Noise and vibration measurement
• Defrost cycle validation
• Alarm and safety trip verification on real inputs
• Operator training completion
• Punch list issued and closed

Pass/fail criteria

Every test needs a numeric or binary pass criterion agreed in the PO. Vague criteria ('operates satisfactorily') always lose in warranty disputes.

Documentation deliverables

FAT and SAT reports signed by both parties, with test data, photos, deviations and corrective actions. Store with the equipment file for the full warranty period.