Which tool is commonly used to measure refrigerant pressure in HVAC systems?

The tool commonly used to measure refrigerant pressure in HVAC systems is the manifold gauge set. This set consists of two or more pressure gauges connected to the refrigerant lines through hoses, allowing technicians to measure both the high and low side pressures of the refrigerant. Understanding these pressures is crucial for diagnosing system performance, ensuring efficient operation, and identifying any potential issues such as leaks or undercharging.

Manifold gauge sets typically come with color-coded hoses which make it easier to connect to the correct side of the system—red for high pressure and blue for low pressure. The readings provide valuable information about the system's refrigerant charge and overall health.

The other tools mentioned, while useful in different contexts, do not serve the primary purpose of measuring refrigerant pressure. Digital thermometers measure temperature, pressure regulators control the flow and pressure of gases or liquids in systems, and thermocouples measure temperature changes via voltage. None of these tools can directly assess refrigerant pressure in the same way a manifold gauge set can, making the latter the optimal choice for this function.