An instrument for measuring pressure lower than atmospheric pressure, readily available at a major home improvement retailer, serves a critical function in various applications. These devices indicate the level of vacuum present in a system, expressed in units such as inches of mercury (inHg) or Pascals (Pa). For example, a reading of -25 inHg signifies a substantial vacuum relative to standard atmospheric pressure.
Accurate vacuum measurement is essential in numerous settings. In automotive repair, such instrumentation assists in diagnosing engine problems related to vacuum leaks or insufficient vacuum pressure. In HVAC systems, these tools are crucial for assessing the performance of vacuum pumps used during refrigerant recovery and system evacuation. Their ability to provide precise pressure readings allows for efficient troubleshooting and optimization of system performance, ultimately leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced operational costs.