Fast Evacuation Series: Testing your Tools

Introduction: Why to Test your Tools

Before performing any system maintenance, you should always test the tools and equipment you'll use on the job site. Testing your tools is essential to fast and reliable service of an AC system. The purpose of testing is to ensure that there are no leaks within your tools themselves. This could lead to false assumptions that the leak is coming from the system, which could lead to searching for a system leak that actually isn't there, costing you time and money.

Testing your Vacuum Gauge

Start by testing your vacuum gauge, as you will need a properly working vacuum gauge to test your other tools. Replacing your gauge's oil catch filter is routine maintenance that will keep your gauge clean and reading accurately. As we evacuate systems, residual oil can build up in the filter and eventually reach the sensor. This may cause unnecessary stalling and possibly give you a false reading. Further cleaning of the sensor is only necessary if your gauge is acting erratically.

Removing Dirty Filter from AV760

AV760 Full-Range Vacuum Gauge

KT2110-R O-Rings and Filter Repair Kit

Testing your Vacuum Pump: Cap Gaskets and Vacuum Pump Oil

We want to perform a bench test on our vacuum pump to ensure it is pulling a deep vacuum. Before starting the bench test, be sure to check the cap gaskets. Cap gaskets are often damaged or misplaced from repeated use. It's important to note the vacuum pump's oil condition during the bench test. If you notice discoloration of the oil, along with slow performance, it may be time to perform an oil flush procedure. This will help remove contaminants in the pump from previous evacuations. Starting an evacuation with clean oil in your vacuum pump is key to a fast and efficient evacuation.

Cap Gasket on TEZ8 Vacuum Pump

Dirty, Clean & Moist Vacuum Pump Oil

TEZ8 Vacuum Pump

Testing your Evacuation Hoses: Gaskets

If your vacuum pump is pulling a deep vacuum, it's time to test the evacuation hoses.

With the day-to-day connecting and pressure swings, hose gaskets will lose their integrity over time. Check for nicks and damage to the gasket. Check that all the hose gaskets are accounted for and fully seated. If a gasket isn't properly seated, use

the blunt end of a ballpoint pen to fully seat it along with the hose gaskets. The gaskets in all angled fittings and connectors should be examined prior to servicing a system. Valve core removal tools are common points of wear from repeated connecting,

disconnecting, pressure swings, and refrigerant exposure, so the gaskets and seals can become worn and damaged. We always recommend performing an isolation test.

This test will ensure that all the internal o-rings and ball valve seals are holding a vacuum properly.

MH120006EAK Black Evacuation Hose

KT11GG-R Hose Gasket Replacement Kit

Conclusion

Now that your tools are proven to be in working order, we will learn the importance of clean vacuum pump oil and proper oil management. Read more here.

Fast Evacuation Series // Part 2 - Testing your Tools Video: