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  User's Manual
Package Art
Features and Benefits
Competitive Advantages
What's Included?
Recommended
Specifications
What is It?
Recent studies suggest that over half of the AC systems in operation in the U.S. are undercharged or overcharged. This causes decreased efficiency, and sometimes, premature compressor failure. The Fieldpiece Superheat and Subcooling Accessory for Air Conditioning, model ASX14, measures suction line, or low side, line temperature and pressure. It then calculates actual superheat in real time using built in P/T charts. It also measures liquid line, or high side, line temperature and pressure, and calculates actual subcooling. Use it to get actual superheat on R-22 and R-410A fixed orifice systems and actual subcooling on TXV / TEV regulated systems. Use the “T” fitting to charge to actual superheat or subcooling by putting the ASX14 in-line between your refrigerant bottle and the system.
How Does it Work?
Finding actual superheat or subcooling is easy with the ASX14. Simply hook it up to the system, let the system stabilize, and get your actual superheat or subcooling reading in real time. No charts, no calculations. It’s all done for you in the instrument. The ASX14 measures refrigerant pressure and temperature simultaneously. It then calculates and displays actual superheat or subcooling on your meter or electronic handle. It has a 1/4” industry standard fitting for actual pressure. An advanced pipe clamp k-type thermocouple model ATC1 is included for actual line temperature. Select R22 or R410A. Select English or Metric units and test.
Operation
- Connect to COM and Volts jack. Slide ASX14 superheat head onto Fieldpiece "stick" meter, data logger, electronic handle or connect to most other meters using Fieldpiece ADLS2 deluxe test leads or AHDL1 handle.
- Set meter to mVDC range.
- Calibrate if needed (see Field calibration)
- Hand tighten 1/4” flare to suction line as close to the evaporator as possible using an EPA approved service hose (not included).
- Select refrigerant (R22 or R410A) and units (English or metric).
- Connect the pipe clamp to the suction (superheat) or liquid (subcooling) line at least six inches from the service port and slide it under the insulation for best accuracy isolating the pipe clamp from the ambient air (see Measuring Superheat and Subcooling.)
- Select parameter to display (superheat, subcooling, pressure, or temperature).
- You must wait until the system you are testing has stabilized completely before you can take an accurate superheat or subcooling reading, this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. The STABLE LED lights when superheat is stable.
- Disable Auto-off to data log any of the above parameters with the DL3 data logger.
- Once you have the superheat or subcooling reading follow the manufacturer of the air conditioner’s specifications to properly charge or diagnose the system.
Measuring Actual Superheat and Subcooling
Superheat is the difference between the actual temperature of the refrigerant (gas) as it leaves the evaporator and the boiling point temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. After boiling, the refrigerant continues to warm up. The number of degrees it “warmed up” after boiling is called the superheat. Under worst case conditions (low load for fixed orifice systems), the refrigerant in the evaporator boils off near the end of the evaporator coil. To make sure liquid doesn’t enter the compressor under the worst case condition (low load), the AC manufacturers publish charts indicating what the superheat should be at a given indoor wet bulb measurement and outdoor air temperature.
Measuring superheat is your best indication on a fixed orifice system of the proper refrigerant charge and operating conditions. If everything else is working properly and the actual superheat is too high, add refrigerant. If it’s too low, remove refrigerant.
Subcooling is the difference between the boiling point of the refrigerant in the condenser and the actual temperature of the refrigerant as it leaves the condenser. The number of degrees the refrigerant “cools down” below the boiling point is the subcooling. Under worst case scenario (low load for TXV) the subcooling will continue to rise. If the subcooling rises to high, liquid may be backed into the compressor causing damage and catastrophic failure. On TXV systems, subcooling is the best indication of the state of charge in the refrigerant system since these systems are designed to maintain constant superheat.
Properly charging a system ensures maximum efficiency and longer equipment life.
When charging, the hose must have a Schrader valve depressor on one end to release the refrigerant from the suction or liquid line. This is the same type of hose available with most pressure gauge sets. We suggest EPA sanctioned “no leak” hoses. Exercise caution whenever working with any electricity and high pressure liquid or gas. Follow all instructions provided with equipment being serviced or installed.
Target Superheat and Subcooling
Heed all equipment manufacturer’s specifications, warnings and suggestions above anything found in this manual. To determine the target superheat (fixed orifice system) or subcooling (charts vary dramatically from one system to another), you will typically need three things. Outdoor dry bulb (outdoor air temperature), indoor wet bulb, and the manufacturers target superheat chart or subcooling chart. You can use the ARH4 accessory head or the SRH2 Diagnostic Psychrometer for both indoor wet bulb and outdoor dry bulb. In fact, the SRH2 calculates target superheat and target evaporator exit temperature automatically based on psychometric measurements. Or you can use any Fieldpiece meter that has a temperature function along with an ATWB1 wet bulb thermocouple. Below is a diagram of the ASX14 on a split-system residential A/C unit.
Features and Benefits
Designed for HVAC/R, the Superheat and Subcooling Accessory for Air Conditioning, model ASX14, measures refrigerant pressure and temperature and calculates superheat for two refrigerants in English or metric units.
- Display pressure in PSI or kPa.
- Display temperature in ºF or ºC.
- Display superheat in ºF or ºC.
- Select R22 or R410A.
- Auto-off can be disabled for data logging.
- Includes "T".
- Accepts K-type thermocouples.
- ATC1 pipe clamp T/C included.
- LED indicates when readings are stable.
- Thermocouple calibration pot.
- Push-button atmosphere pressure calibration.
Competitive Advantages
Many AC system analyzers include PT charts you don’t want or need. The ASX14 gives you actual superheat and subcooling in real time like the expensive analyzers do in a rugged, compact design. Used with our handles, our stick and other compatible meters, or our data logger the ASX14 displays refrigerant line pressure and pressure and calculates real time superheat or subcooling for R22 and R410A. Combined with the HVAC GUIDE® System Analyzer (link to HVAC GUIDE PRODUCT PAGE), model HG1 or HG2, the ASX14 becomes a system analyzer and then some. P/T charts for 12 of the most common refrigerants you use in HVAC/R are included, as well as the software and firmware to generate for printable work orders for customers. Be sure to check out some of our HVAC Guide kits on the Fieldpacks (link to Fieldpacks) page.
What's Included
- Superheat and Subcooling Accessory for Air Conditioning - ASX14
- Pipe-Clamp Thermocouple 3/8” to 1 3/8” for Air Conditioning - ATC1
- Mini-calibration screwdriver
- 9V battery (installed)
- Operator’s manual
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Recommended Accessories and Replacement Parts
Technicians who like the ARH4 may also enjoy these instruments and accessories:
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HVAC Guide® System Analyzer - HG1
The HVAC Guide® System Analyzer from Fieldpiece guides technicians, step-by-step through critical HVAC system tests including Target Evaporator Exit Temperature, Superheat, Subcooling and Combustion Analysis. Like all Fieldpiece Instruments, the HVAC Guide tm Tester is designed to make the HVACR field technician's job easier, faster, safer and more effective. Upload customer records to your PC and back to the HVAC Guide tm Tester when you go to visit them for a check-up. Make sure you've covered the important tests on every call. The HVAC Guide tm Tester: Do it right every time.
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Expandable True RMS Stick Multimeter with Backlight - HS36
Our top of the line True RMS Stick Meter, the HS36 includes the ranges you use everyday for HVAC/R field service plus includes a bright blue backlight and True RMS. Like the rest of the HS30 series, the HS36 comes equipped with a magnetic hanger, along with detachable silicone test leads and alligator clip probe tips for remote and easy one-handed testing, as well as the full set of built-in safety features. This auto-ranging stick meter also includes a bar graph on the LCD for an analog feel. Technicians who prefer our expandable stick meters tell us this is the best digital multimeter for HVAC/R field Service.
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Expandable HVAC/R Data Logger - DL3
The DL3 Data Logger from Fieldpiece Instruments measures and records any parameter from any accessory head Instrument we offer. It holds up to 20,000 data points and can be set to record in a range from once every second to once ever 999 hours. Record and export data in .xls format to your PC for use in work orders, troubleshooting and service contracts. A real-time clock time stamps every data point for pinpoint accuracy. Use multiple data loggers to monitor several parameters to make troubleshooting and commissioning easier.We’ve updated the function of the DL3 to include features you asked us to add. Combined with our accessory head instruments, we’re comfortable saying the DL3 is the most versatile data logger for HVAC/R field service.
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Superheat and Subcooling for A/C and Refrigeration - SSX34
The Fieldpiece Superheat and Subcooling for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration meter, model SSX34, measures suction line, or low side, line temperature and pressure. It then calculates actual superheat in real time using built-in P/T charts. It also measures liquid line, or high side, temperature and pressure, and calculates actual subcooling. Use it to get actual superheat on R-22, R-410A, R-134A, and R-404A fixed orifice systems and actual subcooling on TXV / TEV regulated systems. Use the “T” fitting to charge to actual superheat or subcooling by putting the SSX34 in-line between your refrigerant bottle and the system.
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Specifications
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Operating environment: 32ºF to 122ºF; 0ºC to 50ºC at <75%RH
Allow ~5 min. for ASX14 to come to ambient temp.
Storage environment: -4ºF to 140ºF; -20ºC to 60ºC at <80%RH with battery removed.
Battery life: 25 hours typical. No measurable current draw when in "off" position.
Low battery indication: Red LED lights
Battery: 9V
Auto off: Approx. 15 minutes
Overloads: The ASX14 outputs 3.4V when temperature or pressure is outside of their working range (overloaded). For ranges below 3400mVDC, the normal overload symbol will be displayed on the meter (“OL”). For ranges above 3400mVDC, reading displayed will be approximately 3.4VDC.
Stated Accuracy: at 73°F ± 9°F (23°C ±5°C) <90% R.H.
Compatible Refrigerants
Built-in Pressure/Temperature Charts: R22, R410A. PT charts for 12 refrigerants when used with HVAC Guide® System Analyzer.
Temperature
Range (temperature): -40ºF to 400ºF; -40ºC to 204ºC
Resolutions: 0.1º
Sensor type: k-type thermocouple
Pipe clamp thermocouple accuracy: ±4ºF (±2°C) or ±0.75%, whichever is greater, -30ºF to 200ºF (-34°C to 93°C)
System accuracy: ±1ºF;±0.06ºC @ 73ºF ± 5ºF after ice water calibration (see Field calibration).
Pressure and vacuum
Working range (pressure): 0 to 500 psi; 0 to 4000 kPa
Max displayed pressure: 800psi (5500 kPa)
Working range (vacuum): 29”Hg vac. to 0; 74cmHg vac. to 0
Vacuum will show up as negative value on meter.
Resolutions: 0.1psi or kPa, 0.1”Hg or cmHg vac.
Accuracy: 0 to 200 psig, ±1 psi, 0 to 1378 kPa ±6.9 kPa; 200 to 500 psig, 0.3% ±1 psi, 1378 to 3447 kPa 0.3% ±6.9kPa
Sensor breakdown pressure: 800psi (5500 kPa)
Superheat
Range (temperature): 0ºF to 80ºF; 0ºC to 27ºC
Resolutions: 0.1º
System Accuracy: ±1ºF @ 73ºF ± 5ºF (±0.06ºC @ 23°C ±3°C) after calibration (see Field calibration).
Subcooling
Range (temperature): 0ºF to 80ºF; 0ºC to 27ºC
Resolutions: 0.1º
System Accuracy: ±1ºF @ 73ºF ± 5ºF (±0.06ºC @ 23°C ±3°C) after calibration (see Field calibration
Field calibration
Temperature: To calibrate the system (ASX14, pipe clamp thermocouple, meter), adjust the calibration pot underneath the rubber covering while measuring a known temperature. Ice water is 32°F (0°C) and is readily available.
- Stabilize (by repeated stirring) a large cup of ice water.
- Select temperature on ASX14, plug in the pipe clamp thermocouple and then immerse entire clamp into the ice water (keep stirring).
- Adjust the calibration pot to read 32.0 (0.0 if using °C) on the DMM for optimum accuracy at room temp.
Pressure: The pressure/vacuum reading prior to connecting to an A/C system should always be zero. If you see that you’re getting pressure readings of something other than zero without your service hose attached, you need to set atmospheric pressure before connecting the ASX14 to the system. To set atmospheric pressure, press the button underneath the rubber covering entitled “Set ATM”. You usually have to set atmospheric pressure each time you dramatically change elevations. For example, if you “Set ATM” in Denver and take a pressure reading of an A/C system in Los Angeles, the pressure reading in Los Angeles will be lower than it actually is.
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