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Fieldpiece Instruments Launches Wireless Vacuum Gauge that is Rugged, Accurate, and Wireless

wireless vacuum gauge

Orange, Calif., June 30, 2021 – Fieldpiece Instruments introduces a new wireless vacuum gauge, model MG44.  Stepping in to replace the SVG3 vacuum gauge, the MG44 wireless vacuum gauge features a large LCD screen with three user-selectable data views as well as hi and low alarms, all housed in a durable no-slip grip case.  With the addition of wireless capability, the new vacuum gauge allows HVACR professionals to view vacuum readings with the Fieldpiece Job Link® System App, or on the SMAN™ Refrigerant Manifold.

“We strive to continuously improve as we engineer new products, and that improvement is reflected in the user’s experience with this new wireless vacuum gauge,” said Charlotte Loomis, Sr. Marketing Manager, Fieldpiece. “The new gauge is rugged and accurate and the cylindrical design is easy to hold or to place in optimum locations.  With its wireless functionality the user monitors live evacuation directly on the tool or remotely on their Job Link enabled device.”

The new Wireless Vacuum Gauge MG44 can be used three ways:  1) as a standalone vacuum gauge 2) with a Job Link enabled device to monitor up to 1000’ away from the gauge or have a Job Link live look-in consultation and 3) monitor the external gauge through the SMAN SM380V/SM480V digital refrigerant manifold.  With this up to the minute information, the HVACR professional knows when an extra nitrogen purge is required, a leak is suspected, or if the process is proceeding normally. Professional Job Link reports can be generated from this data as well.

The large LCD screen on the unit can be easily seen in bright or low light and from a wide angle. The user can select one of three unique views, including a new Rate Meter that shows the real-time change per minute, a Bar Graph that has a range up to atmosphere, or the Rate that shows the rate that shows the change per minute.

The reversible angled coupler as well as the new cylindrical shape, makes it easy to orient the gauge so that it is out of the way and yet easy to see. Built for demanding field use, the patented, over-molded case design resists damage from physical impact and water ingress. The standalone vacuum gauge facilitates a reliable seal and is IP54 rated for water and dust resistance.

The wireless vacuum gauge is available at distributors now. For more information about the Wireless Vacuum Gauge MG44 please visit the product page https://www.fieldpiece.com/product-category/recovery-and-vacuum/

ABOUT FIELDPIECE: Fieldpiece Instruments is an innovative technology company focused on helping industry professionals do their jobs easier, faster and better around the globe. We deliver on this promise through industry-leading devices with the broadest range of professional-grade tools and technology inspired by real-world application and field use. Fieldpiece is focused on serving the HVACR industry exclusively, enabling HVACR professionals to become Masters of the Trade. For more information, please visit http://www.fieldpiece.com, and be sure to follow Fieldpiece on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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Press Releases

Fieldpiece Instruments Introduces Two New Ultra-Sensitive Leak Detectors

sensitive leak detectors

Orange, Calif., May 11, 2021 – Fieldpiece Instruments, the industry leader in tool and test instruments for HVACR professionals, announces the launch of two new leak detectors, Infrared model DR82 and Heated Diode model DR58. The two new Fieldpiece leak detectors are highly sensitive, durable and more reliable than anything else on the market. Designed for field use, they are easy to read in bright sun or low indoor light with large, bright blue LCD displays for leak information. The displays include bar graphs and numerical values. In addition, they have long lasting batteries for a full day of testing, and both the leak detectors and the included case are rugged and made to last.

Designed with the HVACR pro in mind, the new leak detectors include uncompromising features such as high sensitivity, multiple refrigerant detection, and audible alarms as well as a flashing lighted tip for an easy visual indicator.  The Infrared model DR82, gives technicians superior sensitivity in the field – <0.03-ounces per year. To pinpoint the leak, the user sweeps the area with the DR82 IR Leak Detector resulting in the unit sensing a change in refrigerant levels so the user doesn’t have to manually change the sensitivity. The DR82 has the most consistent leak detection across all refrigerants making it easy for the technician to locate the leak in any situation. The Infrared sensor is designed to last about ten years, one of the longest-lasting sensors on the market today. Also, the DR82 has the added protection of a replaceable water-blocking filter that keeps moisture and contaminants from reaching the sensor, preventing contaminant-related failure. The rechargeable 10-hour lithium-ion battery powers the unit for a full day of testing.

The new DR58 Heated Diode Leak Detector has a state-of-the-art heated diode sensor that is very sensitive to CFCs, HFCs, HCFCs, HFOs, and blends, delivering sensitivity better than 0.03-ounces per year. A USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery powers the DR58 for up to 18 hours on a single charge. Technicians can check the amount of battery life left when starting up the unit and on the fly.  The DR58 triggers on absolute refrigerant concentration.  The instrument defaults to auto zeroing mode when switched on and refreshes every two seconds until a leak is detected. Technicians can also switch to manual zeroing mode to help pinpoint leaks, even in contaminated areas.

“Finding and fixing leaks on a system not only helps eliminate the venting of refrigerants into the atmosphere, it is another way to make sure charge related problems are minimized between scheduled maintenance calls. We now offer the best infrared and heated diode leak detectors in the industry,” said Charlotte Loomis, Sr. Marketing Manager, Fieldpiece.

Like all of Fieldpiece’s instruments, the new leak detectors allow HVACR pros to work more effectively with more information. Both a visual (flashing tip) and audible alarm on the wand alert the HVACR pro when a refrigerant leak is detected. The pros have the option of muting the audible alarm by pressing the two buttons. The large LCD display shows a numerical value on leak size and a bar graph indicating the intensity of the leak. The backlit LCD display can be seen in dark places or in direct sun to give the pro much needed information on the refrigerants detected and the remaining battery of the unit. A peak reading indicator features a manual reset to clear. Three sensitivity levels adjust at the push of a button to find leaks even in refrigerant contaminated environments. The units are rugged and easy to use and hold due to their compact size at only 8” long. Both units are IP54 water resistant for durability.

Both units come standard with a blow-molded carrying case, USB charging cable and wall adapter, and 5 replacement filter tips. The suggested trade price for the DR82 is $475. The suggested trade price for the DR58 is $345. They are available at distributors now. For more information about the leak detectors please visit the product page https://www.fieldpiece.com/product-category/leak-detectors/.

ABOUT FIELDPIECE: We deliver on this promise through industry-leading devices with the broadest range of professional-grade tools and technology inspired by real-world application and field use. Fieldpiece is focused on serving the HVACR industry exclusively, enabling HVACR pros to become Masters of the Trade. For more information, please visit http://www.fieldpiece.com or email: getanswers@fieldpiece.com, and be sure to follow Fieldpiece on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

 

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2 Best Refrigerant Leak Detectors DR82, DR58

Fieldpiece Instruments, the leader in HVACR tools, offers the DR58 and DR82 refrigerant leak detectors. Compact, easy to use, and convenient, these leak detectors use infrared and heated diode sensors to find all leaks and far exceed international leak detection standards.

These certified weather-resistant leak detectors boast lighted tips and loud beeper alarms that alert you to leak sources in all kinds of environments. The lithium-ion battery performs 10 to 18 hours and is easily recharged, and the all-in-one filter is convenient to replace. A backlit LCD screen puts all leak detection data at your fingertips. Compact and durable with unmatched performance, the DR58 and DR82 refrigerant leak detectors are the tools for you! Learn more about our refrigerant leak detectors and all of our HVACR tools at fieldpiece.com.

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Press Releases

Fieldpiece Instruments Launches Three New Vacuum Pumps that are Lighter and Faster

vacuum pumps

Orange, Calif., May 4, 2021 – Fieldpiece Instruments, the industry leader in tools and test instruments for HVACR professionals, today announced a new generation of vacuum pumps that are small, lightweight, portable, and allow fast, timesaving vacuum evacuation to make the HVACR professional’s job easier and more efficient. The new Fieldpiece pumps include three different CFM models that can be used in a variety of applications. The Fieldpiece top-of-the-line VPX7 pump is the lightest of the three new pumps due to a patent-pending manufacturing process resulting in a pump that is lightweight and manageable for the pro to carry.

HVACR pros can choose the vacuum pump that is best suited for them depending on the system and pump feature preference. Model VPX7 is a fast and efficient 10 CFM DC Motor and is perfect for large commercial and refrigeration applications. The patent-pending interior EPO coating, which is a high-energy surface treatment to high strength aluminum alloy, makes the VPX7 pump portable enough to climb up a ladder or move to other areas where needed.  In addition, the coating is extremely tough as well as chemical and wear-resistant, so the life of the VPX7 pump is extended. Model VP87 is an 8CFM DC for light commercial and residential systems replacing the legacy VP85. For residential service and installation, HVACR pros will choose the VP67, 6CFM AC model, replacing the current VP55 (5CFM). The three new vacuum pumps from Fieldpiece Instruments offer HVACR professionals a more efficient way to pull vacuum in A/C and refrigeration units either prior to adding refrigerant on a new installation or when performing a system repair.

“We know that for the HVACR pro time is money. What truly sets the VPX7 pump apart from the competition is the 10 CFM rate which will cut the evacuation time considerably,” said Charlotte Loomis, Product Manager. “In addition, the VPX7 has a powerful DC motor yet it is lightweight at only 24 lbs.”

Fieldpiece refined the proprietary RunQuick™ Oil Management System by enlarging the oil-viewing window to clearly view the pump oil through the huge oil reservoir window to see the condition of the oil, and the system. This new, larger window has additional LED lights that provide details on the status of the pump such as: gas ballast status, voltage levels/warnings and cold weather start status for the VP87 and VPX7 pumps. When it is time to change the oil, the process is quick, clean, and easy to do, as the window is now removable and the pumps have a wide mouth fill port. The oil can be replaced in under 20 seconds, even while the pump is running without losing vacuum. Fieldpiece also included extra bottle storage.

The new classification of A2L refrigerants has been addressed in this next generation vacuum pumps. Looking to the future when A2L refrigerants will be required, the three models are A2L Refrigerant Compliant.

The trade price for the VPX7 is $882, the VP87 is $723, and the VP67 is $470. They are available at distributors now. For more information about the vacuum pumps please visit the product page https://www.fieldpiece.com/product-category/recovery-and-vacuum/vacuum-pumps/.

ABOUT FIELDPIECE: We deliver on this promise through industry-leading devices with the broadest range of professional-grade tools and technology inspired by real-world application and field use. Fieldpiece is focused on serving the HVACR industry exclusively, enabling HVACR pros to become Masters of the Trade. For more information, please visit http://www.fieldpiece.com or email: getanswers@fieldpiece.com, and be sure to follow Fieldpiece on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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3 Must Have Vacuum Pumps VPX7, VP87, VP67

Fieldpiece Instruments introduces three models of the industry’s most lightweight, durable, and dependable HVAC vacuum pumps, the VPX7, VP87, and VP67. Weighing only 24 pounds and boasting a flow rate of 10 CFM, these vacuum pumps are ready for commercial jobs.

Fast and stable, these pumps boast four incline ports for clean, easy hose management. The Fieldpiece Instruments’ proprietary Run Quick™ Oil Change System makes on-the-fly oil changes easier, quicker, and cleaner. And these versatile vacuum pumps come A2L ceritfied! Look to Fieldpiece Instruments, the leader in HVACR tools, for the industry’s most powerful HVAC vacuum pumps.

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Blog

HVAC Vacuum Pump Best Practices, Tips, and Tricks

By: Tony Gonzalez, Technical Training Manager at Fieldpiece 

Pulling a vacuum before adding refrigerant can be a time-consuming process but removing all moisture and non-condensable gasses is an important step that quickly pays for itself. Plus, making sure your system can hold a vacuum at targeted microns per manufacturer recommendations (with a general rule of thumb being 500 microns) helps ensure it isn’t leaking. Here are a few tips that may help save you some time on your next evacuation:

Choose the Right Tool.

First, start by using the best tool for the job and then make sure you put it in the right spot. Not everyone realizes that a stand-alone vacuum gauge is the best tool to measure a deep vacuum. Along with being incredibly accurate, a vacuum gauge can be positioned in the ideal location — as far back on the system from the pump as possible. This best practice helps you ensure it’s placed in the last spot to reach your targeted vacuum level; and by placing it directly on the system—if you do detect a leak—you can be sure that the problem is in the system itself since you can rule out an issue in an extraneous hose or attachment.

Clear Any and All Flow Restrictions.

Next, make sure to clear any flow restrictions in the system. It may seem easy to use a pair of charging hoses to pull a vacuum, but vacuum-rated hoses have a larger diameter and typically lack a core depressor. They are designed to facilitate maximum flow during evacuations, which means your job is done faster and easier. You should also remove the valve cores from the service ports on the system. These steps can help clear restrictions and speed up evacuations.

Check Your Oil Condition.

Something else to keep in mind is clean oil. Dirty oil that’s saturated with water is less effective at removing moisture and other non-condensables from the system. Also, oil oxidizes over time and this reduces its sealing properties. Changing the oil often significantly speeds up the evacuation time.

Certain HVAC vacuum pumps enable oil changes, even while the pump is still running. This allows you to make oil changes on the fly, quickly and easily, without a mess, loss of vacuum, or time.

Take Guesswork Out of the Equation.

As you’re pulling the vacuum, keep an eye on the vacuum gauges and don’t play it by ear. We all know about how long evacuations should take and you could be tempted to look at a clock and say, “it’s been 30 minutes, we’re probably good.” But, as master craftsmen, we don’t guess. Check the gauge to make sure you’re pulling and holding a vacuum to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is the only way to be sure it’s done right.

Pulling a vacuum to remove moisture and other impurities is key to preserving the overall health of the system. Since it’s the single most important step to ensuring a system’s optimal performance and longevity, knowing how to perform evacuations quickly and correctly is an important skill to master. We hope these tips have been helpful!

About the Author: Tony Gonzalez is the Technical Training Manager for Fieldpiece Instruments. He has more than 20 years of industry experience with Fieldpiece developing new products. Most recently, he led the Job Link® App development team and developed Fieldpiece’s wireless power clamp meters. He is committed to training on best practices to help the HVACR professionals do their job easier, faster, and better. Tony enjoys road cycling and rooting for his hometown LA Dodgers.

Featured in: HVAC/P Magazine