Digital Vacuum Gauges are a highly sensitive piece of equipment and need to be treated with care. Below are the things to avoid when using this type of gauge.
At no point should a digital vacuum gauge be connected to a system containing oil (outside the compressor) Excess moisture or refrigerant, if the gauge is damaged from one of the above, it will be deemed user error and not be covered by warranty.
Do not connect a digital vacuum gauge directly to a vacuum pump:
Even under a deep vacuum, some pumps will have oil molecules spraying around the inlet area. lf even a tiny spec of oil gets onto the sensor it will do harmful damage to the gauge. Connect the gauge to either your manifold set or the A/C system service port.
Do not leave the vacuum gauge or any other equipment connected to a vacuum pump when the pump is switched off:
If a vacuum pump is switched off and left connected to a Vacuum gauge, manifold set, hoses or any system. The oil in the vacuum pump will migrate through the entire system. Always use a vacuum pump with either a solenoid valve or manual isolation valve.
Always remove or isolate the vacuum gauge before introducing refrigerant to the system:
Be careful not to leave a vacuum gauge open to any system when injecting refrigerant. The high pressures and chemical contents will do harmful damage to the gauge vacuum sensor.
Do not connect the vacuum gauge to hoses or fittings that are contaminated with oil:
Any of the reasons above can cause your other equipment like Manifolds, hoses or adaptors to become internally lined with oils or chemicals. This equipment must be cleaned and dried under vacuum before being connected to your vacuum gauge.
