Which device is commonly used to check system pressures?

A manifold gauge set is the device commonly used to check system pressures in both air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This tool consists of a set of gauges that measure the high and low pressures of refrigerants within a system. By connecting the manifold gauge set to the appropriate service ports on the A/C system, a technician can read the pressures to assess the performance, diagnose issues, and determine the refrigerant charge.

The high and low side gauges provide critical information about the system's operation. For instance, the low-pressure gauge typically reflects the suction pressure, which can indicate how well the evaporator is functioning, while the high-pressure gauge shows the pressure in the condenser side, helping evaluate the efficiency of that component. Overall, accurate pressure readings are essential for ensuring optimal system performance and for troubleshooting any potential problems.