Gauge reader: capture readings and check the charge and electrical

Overview#

Gauge reader reads the numbers on a digital or analog manifold, multimeter, clamp meter, thermometer or manometer from a photo, or takes the readings you type. It works out superheat and subcooling from pressures and line temperatures (same PT charts as the calculators), compares the charge to the system's metering device, and checks voltage, amp draw and voltage drop against the nameplate. Save readings puts them on the unit's record and the job notes.

Before you start#

• Reading photos needs AI; typed readings and every check work without it.

• Settings › AI › AI assists › Gauge reader must be on.

Steps#

1. On a Working appointment tap Gauge reader (or from the unit's Equipment screen).

2. Pick the unit. Take a photo of the instrument, or tap reading chips (for example Suction pressure, Liquid line temp, Voltage) and type values.

3. Open Unit to set the Refrigerant, Metering device (TXV/EEV or Piston), Target subcooling, Rated voltage, RLA / FLA and Voltage at the panel.

4. Tap Check readings. You'll see the readings (with a confidence for photo reads), Calculated values and Check readings with In range, Check or Out of range.

5. Tap Save readings.

Settings that change this#

• Settings › AI › AI assists › Gauge reader.

Tips#

• TXV systems: enter the nameplate target subcooling. Piston systems: add indoor wet bulb and outdoor dry bulb to get the target superheat.

• Guidance always says to check airflow and leaks before adding refrigerant.

Troubleshooting#

• "Couldn't use: …" → a value had a unit that doesn't fit the reading or was out of range → type it.

• "Pick a unit…" → readings save to a unit; choose one.

FAQ#

Q: Can it read my Bluetooth probes? Not yet. Fieldpiece, Testo and Fluke connections are a next step; photograph the screen for now.

Coming from ServiceTitan#

ServiceTitan offers calculators; TradesWork also captures the readings onto the equipment record.