
What Does A Manifold Gauge Do?
Several components found in car air conditioning systems consist of o-rings and hoses. These parts are also made of rubber, which means its condition can deteriorate over a period of several years. That’s where an A/C manifold gauge comes in handy. It allows you to recharge your system every year. This helps keep your car cool and even saves you a significant amount of money over your car’s service lifespan. In basic terms, manifold gauge sets are designed to determine if one’s system is fully charged or not. They may also indicate if the system is losing pressure at an alarming rate; the presence of a major leak. Let’s find out more about what it can do for you:
Manifold Gauges Help Facilitate the Recharge and Evacuation of A/C Systems
If your system is empty or low on refrigerant, make sure that you first diagnose and repair any large leaks in the system. Next, you need to use the most accurate way of installing the new refrigerant. This is called a complete Evac & Recharge procedure. For this task, you will need a compact-sized electric-powered vacuum pump and a manifold gauge set.
You begin the process by twisting both the high and low side valves to the closed position. Next, you will connect the hoses to the respective high-side and low-side pressure-related fittings on your car. Once the hoses are properly attached, you can open the valves. The low-pressure side gauge show readings for vacuum.
If the system holds the same vacuum pressure amount—without dropping—for about 30 minutes while being evacuated, it means that your car is leak-free! If the pressure declines, it could indicate a large leak somewhere. It could also mean that the water in the system has boiled off.
Manifold Gauges are needed during A/C System Top-up Procedures
We understand that car owners wish that cool air blows out of their A/C vents for as long as possible. However, an A/C system gradually loses its cooling ability over time. In many cases, you just need to perform a pressure check and add a small amount of refrigerant. This procedure can be carried out on an annual basis.
To recharge your A/C system, start by inserting a valve in the can of new refrigerant that will be used. The valve and the can must be facing upwards to ensure that the refrigerant vapor can be drawn from the top of the can. Next, install the valve knob (in closed position) on the refrigerant container.
Connect the yellow hose from your manifold gauge to the valve knob. Proceed to open the valve on the can to bleed air out of the yellow line. Simply loosen the yellow hose fitting at the top of the manifold gauge. You will hear a hissing sound if this goes right. Now, start the car and switch on the A/C to max. Make sure both low- and high-side valves still closed. You only need to open the manifold’s low side valve. Next, watch your gauge as you add refrigerant. Stop when you have reached the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.