This podcast is by Sal at Products by Pros, featuring Bryan Orr of HVAC School. In this episode, Sal asks Bryan all about micron gauges.
Guest: Bryan Orr
You should look for superior accuracy and resolution, especially if you'll be doing decay testing. You need to see what the trends are in clear detail. (The Bluvac app makes that easy.)
You use a micron gauge to verify that you have pulled a proper vacuum.
People respond primarily to pain; most technicians in the field know what they can get away with to avoid the pain of punishment for bad practices.
They typically come from companies that don't care about having clear startup and commissioning practices.
Technicians think in terms of the tyranny of the urgent. They have to take time to learn it, and many of them don't have that time.
Scheduling pressures are already immense, and field techs are also under constant pressure to get work done and do their jobs even better.
Learn how to do things right and become proficient with newer, better tools.
Don't use leaky manifold gauges during evacuation; just use good-quality vacuum-rated hoses. Use core remover tools and keep your micron gauge as far away from your pump as you can get it during evacuation.
A common thread among many techs is that they want to avoid blame; if we focus on reducing blame, then techs might feel more encouraged to learn and do things correctly. (There will always be sticks in the mud, though.)
Integrity comes in when we show techs how to do procedures right. When you teach techs how to do things right, the work will speak for itself, and your company will earn a positive reputation.
I recommend the Pro for new techs or installers, the LTE for intermediate technicians, and the Micro for pros.
I consider those products reliable because they work consistently with the typical wear-and-tear that's expected in the field. Except in cases of extreme abuse, they seem to maintain their sensing abilities very well.
Looking to learn more? Go check out hvacrschool.com/evac or the AccuTools YouTube channel HERE.
Want to have your local suppliers carry AccuTools? Reach out to sal@productsbypros.com
If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.