Author: clidzbarski@fieldpiece.com

The HVACR industry thrives on efficiency, precision and reliability. In such a demanding field, having the right tools can make all the difference. Fieldpiece Instruments’ Job Link® System App stands out as a comprehensive solution, providing HVACR professionals with the tools they need to excel in their jobs. We’ll explore the many benefits of the Job Link System and the experiences of four HVACR professionals – James Farmer, Vinny Lopez, Luis Rios and Grant Lloyd –on how the ecosystem has transformed their daily workflows. 

 

Maximizing Client Trust with Real-Time Data: James Farmer 

James Farmer, an HVACR technician from New Bern, North Carolina, has been using the Job Link System App for several years. His favorite feature is the Live Measurements feature, which allows him to provide real-time data to his clients. Farmer shared a compelling story about a hospital with extremely dirty evaporator coils. By using the Job Link System App, he was able to show real-time improvements in the system’s performance after cleaning the coils. “The customer was impressed,” Farmer recalls. “I sent data and insights in real-time via email, which significantly enhanced my credibility.” 

For Farmer, the ability to share detailed reports with clients not only helps in gaining their trust but also in demonstrating the value and transparency of his work. “Clients love the fact that I can send them screenshots showing changes in pressures and temperatures. It shows that I’m not just a technician who fixes something and leaves. I provide information on how and why these changes matter, giving customers that extra sense of security and assurance.” 

 

Streamlining Workflow with Customizable Features: Vinny Lopez 

Vinny Lopez, who owns his HVACR business in Waller, Texas, has found the Job Link Pro version indispensable. He uses it to create and manage new jobs and customers, which has significantly improved his workflow. “It comes down to saving time,” Lopez explains. “With several different locations for various clients, I can specialize each job page per location, so each client gets a personalized experience.” 

Lopez plans on utilizing the Live Look-In feature, as he believes this will be a game-changer for his business, allowing him to supervise his techs remotely and provide immediate assistance when needed. “Being able to examine jobs in real-time and guide my techs while they’re on-site will improve efficiency and enhance the quality of our service.” 

 

Optimizing Data Management: Luis Rios 

Luis Rios, a field support specialist for Daikin Comfort Technologies, works remotely from Little Elm, Texas, and specializes in residential HVACR systems. Rios utilizes the Job Link® Pro subscription to enhance his daily workflows. 

Rios particularly values the platform’s data logging and PDF-saving functions. “We use this information for our retrofit projects, tracking data before and after new installation commissioning,” he explains. These features streamline his reporting processes and enhance data accuracy. 

Compared to other apps, Rios finds Job Link’s user-friendly interface and detailed reporting capabilities superior. “Job Link is my go-to app because it’s easy to use and provides comprehensive reports,” he says. Additionally, he appreciates the app team’s responsiveness to user feedback, which continually improves its functionality. 

 

Enhancing Business Operations with Comprehensive Tools: Grant Lloyd 

Grant Lloyd, from Hamptonville, North Carolina, has been in the HVACR industry since 2020. As a Job Link system user, Lloyd values the comprehensive nature of the Job Link System App. He started with the free version and quickly upgraded to Pro to take advantage of the additional features he knew would be useful on a day-to-day basis. “I liked being able to create customer sites and keep jobs organized in one place,” Lloyd says. “The inspection checklist is also very useful for ensuring my techs complete jobs correctly.” 

Lloyd highlights how the Job Link System App has improved his image as a reliable and knowledgeable technician. “Using Fieldpiece tools and the Job Link System App shows clients that I’m serious about providing top-notch service. The app’s ease of use and reliability set me apart from the competition.” 

Testimonials from HVACR pros like James Farmer, Vinny Lopez, Luis Rios and Grant Lloyd underscore the significant impact that Fieldpiece Instruments’ Job Link System App has on HVACR professionals’ workflows. From real-time data sharing and detailed reporting to customizable job management and user-friendly interfaces, the Job Link system offers invaluable tools that enhance efficiency, reliability and client trust. Whether you’re a technician or a business owner, the Job Link System is designed to help you excel in the HVACR industry. Explore the different subscription tiers—Free, Pro and Pro+—to find the best fit for your needs and take your HVACR services to the next level. 

The HVACR industry has witnessed significant technological advancements in measurement and diagnostic tools over the years. From the era of analog refrigerant manifold gauges to modern digital gauges and wireless probes, the tools available to HVACR technicians have evolved to enhance accuracy, efficiency and convenience. Understanding the differences and strengths between these tools is crucial for technicians aiming to optimize their performance and service quality.

Analog Refrigerant Manifold Gauges

For decades, analog refrigerant manifold gauges were the standard in the HVACR industry. These tools allow for the addition and removal of refrigerant and measure system pressures and display saturation temperatures manually, relying on the technician to interpret and calculate their intended readings. They offer reliable and actionable data but require the use of additional instruments for anything outside of pressure and saturation temperature.

Analog gauges are often a great starting point for new technicians given their simplicity and lower price point. One significant drawback of analog gauges is the potential for inaccuracies due to human error and the inherent limitations of the tools. For instance, calculating superheat and subcooling with analog gauges involves multiple steps, including using a separate thermocouple for temperature readings and manual calculations based on pressure-temperature charts. This process is not only time-consuming but also prone to errors.

Digital Refrigerant Manifold Gauges

The introduction of digital refrigerant manifold gauges revolutionized the HVACR industry. Digital manifolds, such as the Fieldpiece SMAN® series, offer several advantages over their analog counterparts:

• Higher Accuracy and Resolution: Digital gauges provide more accurate readings, reducing the risk of human error.
• Automated Calculations: Digital manifolds automatically calculate critical values like superheat and subcooling, streamlining the diagnostic process.
• Convenience: These tools display readings directly on their screens, and some allow for the wireless connection of additional tools such as psychrometers.
• Durability: Digital manifolds are less prone to damage and loss of calibration incurred by system vibrations.

Digital manifolds have simplified the workflow for HVACR technicians, allowing them to take accurate measurements and adjust refrigerant levels quickly and efficiently.

Wireless Probes

Wireless probes represent the latest advancement in HVACR diagnostic tools. These compact instruments allow a technician to remotely take readings both inside and outside a home, with some allowing for data aggregation and calculation on smart devices. Wireless ranges for these devices can vary, with some reaching up to 1000ft for access to live measurements on large job sites. For example, usage of wireless psychrometer probes to measure Delta T eliminates the need for a technician to repeatedly walk inside and outside to take readings.

The compact size of most probes also makes optimal placement at tight spaces or cramped service ports easier, which is crucial for achieving accurate readings. One of the few drawbacks to a wireless probe kit would be that adding or removing refrigerant will still require an additional tool in your configuration, such as a T- Fitting or a valve core removal tool. However, system checks and quick diagnostics are more than possible with a well-rounded probe kit.

Fieldpiece’s JL3KH6 Charge and Air kit is one example, featuring Wireless Pipe Clamps, Pressure Probes, and Flexible Psychrometers. A comprehensive probe kit can be a technician’s best resource for conducting fast and efficient system diagnostics, making it an industry staple.

Choosing the Right Tool

When deciding between analog gauges, digital manifolds and wireless probes, HVACR technicians should consider their specific needs and preferences. Analog gauges, while simple and accessible, are less accurate and more time-consuming. Digital manifolds offer higher accuracy and convenience, with tools such as the Fieldpiece SMAN® series allowing wireless connectivity to other critical instruments.

Wireless probes provide the most flexibility and ease of use, allowing for real-time monitoring via mobile devices. They are ideal for technicians who value precision and efficiency on jobs that require a quick snapshot of system readings. However, if using a mobile device is not feasible due to environmental conditions or personal preference, digital and analog manifolds remain a robust alternative.

In conclusion, the choice between analog, digital and wireless tools depends on the technician’s workflow and the specific requirements of the job. Embracing modern technologies like digital manifolds and wireless probes can significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy and service efficiency. Ultimately, leading to better performance, fewer callbacks and customer satisfaction. Choosing the right tool for a given job will always be a crucial skill for any technician.

Temperature is everything

The key to understanding HVAC system performance is… to take its temperature! The supply and return temperatures, or Delta T, offer a technician crucial details about heat transfer at the evaporator coil, performance of the heat exchanger, refrigerant charge, and the effectiveness of air flow within the conditioned space.

Know exactly where to take the temp

Assessing system performance starts with measuring the supply side and return side temperatures. First, locate the supply air duct close to the air handler or the furnace. This is an optimal place to measure. If necessary, drill an access hole a few feet downstream of the heat exchanger or the evaporator coil for accurate readings.

To measure the return air temperature, measure in the duct closest to the furnace, drilling an access hole in the ductwork, if necessary. This measures the air returning to the HVAC system from the conditioned spaces. Ensure consistency by measuring at the same location each time.

Best practices for accurately finding temperatures

When taking readings, always stabilize the system first by running it for 15-20 minutes. Then, ensure the temperature probe is not affected by drafts or nearby heat sources such as heat strips found in heat pumps. When inserting the probe through an access hole, be sure that it’s placed in the airflow, and not touching the duct walls. Once finished, seal the access point to avoid air leaks.

Make sure the probe is inserted in the duct and not influenced by the room air. Consider taking readings at multiple supply vents to check for uniformity as well. If there are large discrepancies in readings at different locations, the system could have ductwork or airflow issues.

Benefits of Measuring Out of Duct

Delta T is most accurately measured in the duct, but prior to drilling, technicians can get a quick estimate by measuring temperatures at the nearest return vent and supply register or grill. Additionally, taking measurements at the end of the return and supply can assist a technician in diagnosing temperature loss or gain due to duct leaks.

Tools designed for the job

Fieldpiece makes many wireless, handheld tools designed specifically for quick temp checks. When measuring temperature in a duct, or at a register or grill, here are a few of our favorites:

• PRH2 Digital Psychrometer – Use this versatile, pocket-sized psychrometer to measure wet bulb, %RH, dew point and dry bulb temperatures. Readings are shown on the backlit, dual display and the tool can measure temps in the duct or while walking around.

• SPK1 Pocket Knife-Style Thermometer –This digital thermometer opens just like a pocketknife and features a sharp tip for piercing through flex ducts. It hangs easily at any angle from a vent or thermostat.

• SPK2 Folding Pocket In-Duct Thermometer – Also great for taking quick air temperatures, this folding thermometer rod can punch through flex ducts and easily hangs from a duct or on a grille. Not in the mood for math? The SPK2 holds measurements and calculates the delta T for you.

• SPK3 Rod and IR Temperature Pocket-Style Tool – In addition to a duct-piercing thermometer rod and delta T calculator, the SPK3 includes an IR feature with an 8:1 field of view angle and laser guide. The perfect tool to use when you’re doing a walk-around check of air temps at registers in hard-to-reach locations.

• SIG1 Gun-Style IR Thermometer – This standalone, non-contact infrared thermometer features a 10:1 field of view, a bright blue backlight, and a laser guide for fast, accurate readings.

Thank you for coming to our Temp Talk

As an HVAC pro, listen to your system’s air temps – they’ll tell you a lot about system performance. If you want to measure these temperatures quickly and precisely every time, pick up some of these powerful pocket tools from Fieldpiece.