Superheat and subcooling are among the most important calculations an HVACR service technician can perform when troubleshooting a system. This article explores some of the new, state-of-the-art, digital, wireless technologies available for measuring system superheat and subcooling. These new tools enable technicians to automate measurements, share data, and save time and money
A wireless, digital pressure/temperature (P/T) gauge with clamp-on temperature probes provides a wireless connection to a smart device for measuring an HVACR system’s pressure, temperatures, and superheat and subcooling amounts (See Fig. 1). The wireless device uses Bluetooth technology and can be connected to systems without using a gauge manifold set or hoses (See Fig. 2). The device has a built-in Schrader port for the technician to add or subtract refrigerant according to the superheat and subcooling amounts — again, without the need for gauges or a manifold.