Archives for November 2017

How To Test a Thermocouple: The Easy Multimeter Way

Most natural gas-based appliances such as water heaters, stoves, and furnaces use a thermocouple. This part acts as a safety shut-off device to prevent harmful gas leakage if the pilot light goes out. Knowing how to test a thermocouple when an appliance malfunctions is a vital part of the repair process. Even though standing pilot lights have become somewhat obsolete in recent years, due to the advent of direct ignition technology, there are lots of older, fully serviceable equipment still in use today that use a pilot light, and thus have a thermocouple. Testing one with a multimeter is a job most DIYer’s can do with ease.

Defining a Thermocouple

Before starting the test procedures, a brief description of what a thermocouple is, and how it works is helpful. A thermocouple is a type of electrical device know as a transducer, and in various forms, is found in everything from small toasters to massive industrial kilns. It basically converts the temperature it senses into a certain measure of DC voltage. There are at least two distinctly different metals inside the part that form two separate junctions. The live (hot) junction is connected to the part where temperature needs to be monitored. The base (cold) junction is either kept open, or is connected to a known temperature source as a point of reference. The difference in temperature between the hot and cold junctions is then converted into a measurable voltage.

Let the Testing Begin!

Knowing how to test a thermocouple with a multimeter is an important step in diagnosing why a pilot light goes out, or won’t ignite at all. Before staring the tests, be sure to thoroughly clean the part first, to eliminate any dust or carbon buildup that might have contributed to it’s failure. The equipment needed to perform the first set of basic open circuit checks are simply a multimeter (either digital or analog), and a pair of double-ended alligator clips.

Using a digital multimeter, turn it to the millivolt (mV) scale on the DC voltage range.
With the alligator clip wires in place on the meter lead ends, clip one test wire to the gas valve (source) and the other one on the exposed copper wire leading to the thermocouple.
Now light the pilot light by turning the on/off switch to “pilot”, and then push down on the pilot valve opening button.
Hold everything in place for up to a minute to obtain the proper reading. The meter should show about 30 mV +/-5mV.

In-depth Tests

If the reading is found to be proper, then most likely the thermocouple can be ruled out as a source of the problem. However, before you call the service pros in, and if you are game, there is a second, slightly more involved test using the same multimeter and clips as before. These tests are known as closed cicuit, and will give you a more thorough assessment of how to test a thermocouple, as well as possibly revealing any other underlying issues such as draft/flue problems, fuel pressure, and gas valve failure. The use of a special screw-in adapter available through most HVAC dealers is the only additional piece of equipment you will need. It will probably amaze and confuse them to encounter such a dedicated DIYer!

The first measurement will check the millivolts drawn by the electromagnetic coil inside the thermocouple. With the pilot light off, and the adapter in place on the thermocouple, a reading of 15 mV should be obtained.
The second measurement can now be made with the pilot light on, introducing a certain “load”. This is mainly to determine if the cold junction portion of the unit is being altered by other heat factors. If the flame is proper, the reading should be about the same as before (15 mV).
The final test is to see how the magnet reacts to pilot light blow-out. Maximum drop-out time is around 3 minutes, with 1.5 minutes being the norm. If the part is good, the voltage with drop to 1-2 millivolts, and there will an audible “click” when the magnet valve shuts.

Thermocouple as a Test-Bed

Since most commercial thermocouples are relatively inexpensive, a case could be made for not bothering at all with the above closed circuit tests, and just go ahead and replace it. However, this would be a big mistake, because how you test a thermocouple can lead to a better understanding of why your appliance failed in the first place. When the part is blindly replaced without knowing the real reasons for failure, it isn’t fixing the original problem.

One of the best ways to get to the root of thermocouple malfunction, while at the same time determining the efficiency of your appliance, is to examine the pilot flame, and it’s relation to the tip of the thermocouple. When the flame is adjusted for optimal performance, it should envelop the upper 1/2 to 3/8″ of the unit, and the tip should glow a “dull-red” color. Anything brighter than a soft, blue flame will tend to heat the tip excessively to a “cherry-red” color, and eventually cause the tip to weld together, and the part to fail. Particular attention should be given to the cold junction portion of the the thermocouple, as it is highly susceptible to any higher temperatures resulting from an improperly adjusted flame.

Precautions During Testing

Safety concerns linked to the above tests mostly relate to the nature and volatility of natural gas. It’s a good idea to perform these tests with adequate ventilation in place, preferably with fresh air flow-through. Extra care should taken when reconnecting the thermocouple fittings to prevent any cross-threading. To be sure there are no gas leaks associated with an improperly tightened fitting, you can use soapy water to check for any bubbles after the gas is turned back on.

Finishing Up

Even though they are fairly cheap to replace, it’s important to know how to test a thermocouple to expose any other problem areas beyond the part itself. Knowing how to perform even a simple function test can give you a good idea whether your appliance just needs an inexpensive repair, or a more costly fix is in order. You can then decide what course of action to take, and be better prepared for the eventual repair/replacement that follows. Being able to troubleshoot any appliance these days can be quite a rewarding and empowering experience!

Coleman HVAC Review: Pros, Cons, Performance

Looking for an inexpensive impressive air conditioner that will save on your energy bills? The Coleman HVAC line of air conditioners is among the most efficient in the market presently and they are made to last. The air cons boast of (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) SEER ratings of up to 20 and have a high Energy Star efficiency distinction. Coleman HVAC units are quiet giving you fresh air with minimal noise. They have long warranties with the minimum being ten years and the premium models have lifetime warranties on the compressors. It cannot get better than this!

Coleman HVAC Overview

The Coleman Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units are built to meet stringent quality requirements and subjected to rigorous testing to ensure they are the best. They deliver performance, reliability, and efficiency you can trust. Air cons in the Coleman line include the Coleman Echelon Series, Coleman LX Series Mid-Efficiency Air, and the Coleman Comforteer.

The Echelon series has three models ranging from the 18 SEER two stage energy star, the 16 SEER two stage energy star, and the 13 SEER single stage energy star. The LX series and the comforter series have two models each; a 14.5 SEER single stage energy star and 13 SEER single stage energy star.

Coleman HVAC Technical Specifications

SEER efficiency ratings of up to 18 making them some of the best in energy saving in the market. Older models have ratings of 13 but the Echelon series’ most premium model has a rating of 18.

They have a Whisper Drive System and an insulated compressor compartment for minimal noise thus ensures a quiet operation. This is a key feature to consider when looking for a good air conditioner especially for an office setting.
Extended warranties on the products ranges from ten years to a lifetime. Newer premium versions have a lifetime warranty of the compressor while older models enjoy up to ten years of coverage for defects.
Air conditioners have a comfort alert diagnostics for easy troubleshooting. The newer models have an alert system to inform you in case of a malfunction. This feature makes it easier to solve issues and attain an optimal performance.
They use R-410A refrigerant that is environmental friendly hence reducing the amount of pollution.
The premium air cons can be matched with ECM high efficiency blowers and communication control touchscreens to enhance efficiency.
They range between 3 tons and 5 tons in weight. The weight of the system depends on its size and the size of space you plan to use it on.

Pros and Cons of the Coleman HVAC

PROs

It is embedded with WhispherDrive technology to reduce the noise produced. They produce sound of less than 69dB reducing noise in your environment. For an office setting, this is ideal since there are no distractions.
They are very affordable since they cost less and do not require high maintenance. The extended warranty is also a plus since it ensures all defects that could have otherwise cost you money are taken care of for a maximum of ten years.
The refrigerant used is ozone friendly, so you do not have to worry about polluting the environment
Very efficient: they have two stage and single stage energy star ratings for different models making them very efficient. They provide convenience by keeping rooms cool, saving power, and producing minimal noise thus giving you great comfort levels
Warranty and lifespan: everyone wants a product that the manufacturer can associate with for a long time as it guarantees quality. The Coleman line of air conditioners has an extended warranty of ten years and lifetime warranty for premium air cons.

CONs

These air conditioners are very heavy. Weighing between 3 and 5 tons, this machine is too bulky and can consume a lot of space. The advantage though is that they can be installed outside and do not need to be moved around once installed. However, one can easily solve the weight issue since the conditioner comes with a split system design. This allows for several air handlers connecting to a single outdoor condensing unit within your office or your home. The load can be spread among the internal units causing the system to be more efficient and the bulk of the conditioner can be kept outside.
The Coleman HVAC units should be set up by a professional contractor to ensure optimum functionality and to prevent damage to your machine. Poor setup not only affects the working of your machinery but also reduces its lifespan.
Earlier models have less specs in terms of energy saving thus might not be as efficient as the newer ones. The older 13 SEER models come cheaper but their efficiency is lower which means you save very little at low or no convenience.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Coleman HVAC

Climate: the climate of the area you live is essential in determining the air conditioner to get. Warm climates require air cons with higher SEER ratings to ensure awesome cooling. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the machine is which means you get to save more.

Size and weight: It is important to note that small air conditioners might not be sufficient to cool your home while large air cons waste energy by cycling off and on frequently. Seeking advice on the best size for your home is the best way to buy a sufficient air conditioner.

Conclusion

The Coleman HVAC units give efficiency and performance at a high level while consuming very little power. Nothing screams effectiveness like a quiet machine humming and making less noise than your dishwasher. With its high SEER rating and a refrigerant that is ozone friendly, this machine is bound to save on costs and the environment all at once. With the influx of air cons in the market, you need to know what to look for in order to select the best. After reviewing some of the aspects that make a superior air conditioner, it becomes evident that the Coleman HVAC unit will keep you cooler for longer. Did you like the post? If you did, click like, subscribe, and leave a comment.

Armstrong Air Conditioning Review: Pros, Cons, and Performance

An Armstrong air conditioning is every homeowner’s and office worker’s dream. It is one of the few pieces of home equipment that you can trust to keep you as cool as you need to be. The Armstrong air conditioning has numerous attractive features. Our full review awaits below.

Armstrong Air Conditioning Overview

The Armstrong air conditioning is both suitable for home and office spaces. There are seven products under the Armstrong air conditioning line that have a slight difference in their specifications.

The 4SCU13LB, 4SCU13LE, 4SCU14LB, and the 4SCU14LE are earlier models that have lesser specifications compared to the newer versions. They have a single stage compressor feature that makes them work optimally from the beginning to the end.

The 4SCU16LS, 4SCU18LS, and the 4SCU20LX are the newer models that have the two single stage compressor feature that ensures power saving and offer convenience of a longer cooling period.

Armstrong Air Conditioner Technical Specifications

A two-stage compressor to help in energy saving and offer more cooling over longer periods for the 4SCU16LS, 4SCU18LS, and the 4SCU20LX models.
Compressor protection. The Armstrong air conditioners have inbuilt pressure switches that make it possible to stop the conditioner if the pressure inside is too much thus offering protection to the compressor.
They have a noise reduction sound blanket that reduces the noise when the machine is running. The other earlier models do not have this feature although they are not too noisy.
Some Armstrong air conditioning models like the 4SCU16LS, 4SCU18LS, and the 4SCU20LX have a control board that helps in detecting faults and errors to help address a problem before escalation. The control board also ensures optimal performance as any problem is easily detectable.

Pros and Cons of Armstrong Air Conditioning Systems

PROs

Very efficient: Most versions have a two-stage cooling compressor that ensures cooling over an extended period. It provides a convenient and easy way to keep rooms cool while maintaining efficiency, saving power, and maintaining minimal noise in the room. They feature components that work in real-time, making them easy to manage.
Energy saving: They are energy star rated, which means they are energy effective i.e. built to cool more and consume less.
Very affordable and gives value for your money through its attractive up-to-date technological features. The newer versions are a little more expensive than the older ones but more efficiency also comes at a slightly higher cost.
Long warranty that makes you comfortable and secure in case of a problem.
Ozone-friendly so you do not have to worry about polluting the environment compared to other air conditioning systems on the market currently.
A long lifespan. implying that you do not have to worry about replacing it after a short time. Most of them have a lifespan of 10 years and above.
Quieter. The newer versions are attractive since they have noise reduction features that make them efficient for offices and homes where minimal noise is important.

CONs

They are heavy and bulky implying that you will need help with their installation and transport. The lightest weighs between 1.5 and 5 tons, which is not favorable at all. The good thing about them, however, is that once installed, you do not have to move them frequently.
The air conditioner requires setting up by a professional since it is not easy to handle. Efficiency is at its maximum when the conditioner has been properly set up. An unskilled setup will not only bring inefficiency but also compromise the equipment’s functionality.
If the space to use it on is big, you might have to use more than one conditioner. This means that you have to buy more than one conditioner, which might not be cost effective.
Some earlier models like the 4SCU14LE, 4SCU14LB, and the 4SCU13LE do not have the two-stage compressor feature and are noisier making them less effective compared to other models.
The 4SCU13LB is not energy star rated so it might not be as efficient in energy saving as the other Armstrong air conditioners on the market.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing Armstrong Air Conditioning Systems

Cost: the Armstrong air conditioning systems give you value for your money. There are other cheaper air conditioners in the market but it is also important to do a cost-benefit analysis to know whether to stake low and earn low or to stake on quality and get value.

Size and weight: it is imperative to make sure that you get a machine size that is appropriate.

Effectiveness: the Armstrong air conditioning systems, as noted above, saves you energy and provides cooling for a long time while reducing the noise, which is as effective as a cooler can get. Some of the air conditioners like the 4SCU13LB do not have the noise reduction and the energy saving features. As such, you can choose either depending on other factors like size and cost.

Warranty and lifespan: you need to consider the warranty provided by the manufacturer to give you peace of mind in case the product gets faulty. The lifespan also matters; who wants to replace something before he or she is satisfied that it had outlived its usefulness?

Why Armstrong Air Conditioning?

Air conditioners have flooded the market in recent times with manufacturers developing different brands with different specs. However, only a few of these brands work better than the Armstrong air cooler products that give you value for your money, save on power bills, and give you a chance to enjoy unmatched efficiency. Choose wisely. Get yourself an Armstrong air conditioning today. Do not forget to subscribe for more reviews and leave a comment.