Have you ever wondered about the difference between Titan and Brute manifold gauges? What could be the best to use? No need to worry! We've researched the answers to these questions.
To help you decide which to choose between Yellow Jacket Titan and Brute, see their quick comparison below:
- Titan has less pressure and makes the refrigerant flow smoother, while Brute has faster suction and discharge.
- Both have a body made of aluminum alloy, but Brute is forged at high heat, and Titan is not.
- Titan is lightweight, while Brute is heavier.
- Brute's body is bigger than Titan's. Both can be used in refrigerants. But Brute is an improved version of Titan, making Brute more convenient due to the strength and speed of refrigerant flow.
In this article, you'll learn the different functions of a manifold gauge and how to keep it working. We'll provide you with relevant information about the manifold gauge and other related concerns about the proper way of using and reading the air pressure. Let's get started!
What Is a Manifold Gauge?
A manifold gauge is used to indicate the pressure of the refrigerant. It's common in cooling systems such as air conditioners. It can also enhance the efficiency of ventilation by measuring the air pressure released inside a room.
A manifold gauge gives you the convenience of checking the pressure of an air cooling system so that you can quickly act upon any issue that may arise. You can save time and effort if you can detect where the problem starts.
The manifold gauge has two valves, the blue for the suction and the red for the discharge of air. The two colors have different pressure level indicators.
In terms of measurement, the blue valve has a lower range, while the red has a higher one. This means that if the air pressure exceeds the range of the blue valve, the red valve can indicate very high pressure. We'll discuss how to read the manifold gauge later in this article.
Below are some models of Yellow Jacket Titan manifold gauges commonly used.
Yellow Jacket Titan
This model has an aluminum body, which can make the air flow smoother. It is used for charging the air conditioner or for refrigeration, commonly used for R-22. We'll discuss later what R-codes mean.
Also, the Titan has four hose inlets in which the leftmost inlet under the blue valve is for the air suction, while the inner left is for the vacuum. The rightmost inlet is for air pressure, while the inner left is for recovery and charging.
See this Yellow Jacket Titan on Amazon.
Yellow Jacket Brute
This model has a body made from a forged aluminum alloy. The Brute's body is durable and is efficient in making the refrigerant flow faster. It also has a heavy-duty hook that will not pull out.
The Brute has a bigger body than the Titan. Both have the same function. Their main difference is the speed of suction and discharge of refrigerant.
See this Yellow Jacket Brute on Amazon.
What is the R-Code in refrigerants?
The R-code in refrigerants represents the chemical and molecular structure. The "R" stands for refrigerant, and the number is a unique code used to distinguish the atomic composition of chemicals such as chlorine, hydrogen, and carbon.
Refrigerants are made by a special machine to mix the chemicals into liquid. It's then filled into a tank to preserve the chemicals from evaporating. Refrigerants cannot be made at home, as most chemicals are not for the public market.
However, you don't have to worry about what code of refrigerant to use. It's best to ask the manufacturers as they know what is compatible with your air conditioner or refrigerator.
Importance of a Manifold Gauge
The manifold gauge measures refrigerant pressure before using the air conditioner. It's important to balance the air pressure released by the air conditioner. See below for more details on how important the device is.
Improves Pressure
The manifold gauge improves the pressure of the cooling system. Too high pressure can cause the compressor, which is responsible for circulating the air pressure, to stop working. However, very low pressure can cause the cooling system to freeze and block the air passage.
Improves the Cooling System
When the manifold gauge is in good condition, you can maximize and improve the use of the cooling system. The proper air pressure flow prevents the machine from malfunctioning.
Refrigerant and Manifold Gauge Installation Steps
Keep in mind that the manifold gauge should come with a refrigerant tank. It means that you should install both the refrigerant and the gauge consecutively.
Before the installation, you need to prepare the following tools:
Refrigerant or Freon Gas
Freon is a type of non-combustible gas, which means it cannot be heated up or set afire. It is used as a refrigerant for air conditioner units to help provide cool air pressure.
Also, freon improves the circulation of breathable air. It is widely available on the market. Just check the quality and certification of manufacturing.
See this freon gas tank on Amazon.
Gas Mask
You need a protective mask to avoid inhaling the refrigerant. When inhaled, the freon gas may cause health problems like headaches or lung complications.
Gloves
Use gloves to avoid contact with the refrigerant, as it's mainly composed of chlorine, bromine, and hydrogen. Your skin may irritate once in contact with these chemicals.
See this box of gloves on Amazon.
Leak Detector
It's important to use a leak detector to determine if the refrigerant is depleating A leak detector helps protect your air conditioner from damage.
See this halogen leak detector on Amazon.
Manifold Gauge
The manifold gauge will let you know the current pressure flowing through the cooling system. You can refer to the information shared throughout this article.
Cable Clamps
Protect the hoses from detaching by using cable clamps. They usually come with a tiny screw for locking.
See this set of cable clamps on Amazon.
If you have the tools ready, proceed to installation. Remember that it's best to seek professional guidance. However, you can follow these steps:
- Turn off the air conditioner, including the circuit breaker, to reset the circulation. Wait for at least 15 minutes before turning it on again.
- While waiting for the air conditioner to reset, connect the hoses according to the gauge color. Make sure you attach the yellow hose correctly.
- Turn on the air conditioner and wait for 15 minutes for it to reach its normal air circulation.
- Flip the refrigerant tank with the handle against the floor. Twist the canister to open the refrigerant tank, then quickly attach the yellow hose.
- Watch the gauge until it reaches at least 2–6 psi.
- Disconnect all the hoses to stop the refrigerant from overfilling.
- Install a leak detector based on product instructions.
How to Read Pressure on a Manifold Gauge
Reading the pressure on the manifold gauge is simple. The gauges indicate the suction pressure of the refrigerant, in which the blue has a lower scale while the red has a higher scale.
The pressure is measured as PSI, or pounds per inch. This indicates how much pressure is present in every square inch of an area.
To read the pressure gauge, follow these steps:
- Reset the calibration by opening the glass and turning the screw with a screwdriver.
- Determine the major unit scale. The blue gauge can measure up to 350 psi, while the red one can measure up to 500 psi. You can see that the blue gauge is measured by 10s while the red one is measured by 50s.
- See where the arrow is pointing. Add one PSI for every small line on the blue gauge. While each smaller line on the red gauge reads as five PSI,
- Record the measurement in your logbook to see how much refrigerant you've added.
The Arrow on the Manifold Gauge Is Not Moving - What to Do?
The arrows on a manifold gauge should work properly so that you can read the pressure. However, the arrows might be stuck due to loose screws. To fix the arrows, follow these steps:
- Using a screwdriver, unscrew the gauge to open it.
- Wrap the screws with paper to avoid missing them.
- Gently remove the arrow with tweezers.
- Wipe the gauge with a dry cotton ball or tissue.
- Tighten the screws and reposition the arrow to point to zero.
- Put back the gauge's cover, then test the gauge.
Conclusion
Choosing between Titan and Brute can be quite difficult for beginners. HVAC professionals suggest Brute for the more efficient flow of refrigerant. Brute is also durable due to its forged aluminum alloy body.
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