HVAC Techs Are Losing Refrigerant Using Gauges & Ignoring Probe Diagnostics - Eric Ruggles Part 2

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Eric Ruggles, Director of Engineering at Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET), about airflow, static pressure, and modern diagnostic tools. In Part 2, they discuss proper system commissioning, checking pressure across components, and identifying airflow restrictions without disassembling equipment. Eric explains how tools like a digital manometer and wireless probes help measure system performance, airflow, and gas pressure. They also cover the shift from manifolds to probes, including concerns about refrigerant loss and system contamination. The conversation wraps up with practical insights on using airflow, temperature, and CFM measurements to determine true system capacity and improve service decisions.

Gary and Eric discuss airflow testing, static pressure, and how modern tools improve system diagnostics and performance. They explain how proper commissioning sets baseline readings and helps identify issues like plugged coils or airflow restrictions. Eric describes how digital manometers and probes can measure pressure, airflow, and gas pressure while creating reports for customers. They also cover the shift from manifolds to probes, including concerns about refrigerant loss and contamination. They finish by explaining how airflow, temperature, and CFM measurements can confirm true system capacity and support better service decisions.

Expect to Learn:

• How proper commissioning helps set baseline readings for system performance.

• How checking static pressure across components can reveal airflow restrictions.

• Why tools like digital manometers and probes improve accuracy in diagnostics.

• How wireless probes can measure pressure, airflow, and gas without losing refrigerant.

• How airflow, temperature, and CFM readings help confirm true system capacity.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad

[00:42] - Intro to Eric Ruggles in Part 02

[02:03] - Checking static across devices

[03:58] - Yellow Jacket Mano tool overview

[05:32] - Probes vs. manifolds debate

[12:08] - Calculate real BTU capacity without gauges

[15:32] - 3-tool non-invasive maintenance

[16:55] - Duct traverse with Y Jack Flow

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm
Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Eric Ruggles on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ruggles-28a84424/

Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET): https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritchie-engineering-co-yellow-jacket-/

Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET) - Website: https://yellowjacket.com/

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow the Podcast on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455