410A leak detectors

Jun 03, 2008 10 Replies

I know this question has been discussed in here before, but it has been a while, so I don't recall the answers, and things change -- new products hit the market, opinions on them change after a period of "real world" usage, etc. What is the best electronic detector for 410A? I would imagine that with even the best it is harder to pinpoint leaks than with the cheapest pos on R22. I don't do any refrigeration work to speak of, so 404 and 134 capability is not important, though suppose



134 could come in handy for automotive use once in a great while. I know I could google the subject, but would much rather hear opinions from people who have used various brands of detectors long enough to know their strong and weak points, rather than read company websites bragging that their units will pick up a millionth of an ounce per hundred years leak. Thanks Larry

Larry;

I've had the greatest success with IFICON. Expensive, but very accurate. Works on all fluorocarbon based refrigerants. I've found the 'older' IFICON works better than the new, but it is what it is. IFICON gives less false readings and works to 1/8 oz. leak rate. Has high low setting(s) and a rechargeable. [the downside is the rechargeable - never charged when you need it. But you can plug in the charger and use it then.]

Inficon Tekmate

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If you're familiar with the Yokagowa H10G I wonder how the Infinicon compares with it because the Tek-mate is half the price. I've been using only the H10's for about twenty years & I'm getting ready for another leak detector. I like the idea of a battery powered one.

The batteries don't go down.... I have had the same set in there for the last 4 years and they still work. I have been thinking about replacing them just for the hell of it. My Tek-Mate has never failed me... and doesn't give me false readings.

The IFICON Tek-mate is based on the same technology [heated cathode] as the H10.

G.E. deveoped the first H10 somewhere south of 1970.

I may just have to try one of those. I'm getting tired(& older) of running a drop chord everytime I use my H 10.

Just keep in mind that you have to 'charge' the batteries. Otherwise it's very cool and easy to use.

Only if you get the re-chargable.. mine just uses regular flashlight batteries.

EXACTLY! The H-10 series is/was great but that cord crap is for the birds. I then even bought the H-10 PM rechargeable model. I think Ive used it

2 or 3 times. Kinda sweet but biggish and if the batteries go down, you gotta charge it up. The Inficon with the regular batteries is IT! Works great, cheap, and finds the leaks as good or better than the H-10. I had the rechargeable Inficon to use for a while. Didnt love it. The design in your hand was a bit funky and recharging crap isnt fun. I want lightweight, easy and non complex in my life. :-) ** but if thats what I want....why am I doing this chit?** Bubba

We still have the lottery Bubba!

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