Scribd
Upload
49 views4 pages

Pressure Switch Calibration

The document outlines the process for calibrating and testing pressure switches in HVAC systems, emphasizing the importance of comparing calibration errors to tolerance limits. It provides detailed steps for testing continuity, resistance, and voltage using a multimeter, as well as troubleshooting tips for faulty switches. If a switch fails calibration, it should be adjusted or replaced, and the calibration frequency may need to be reassessed based on historical results.

Uploaded by

Aftab Ahmed Mazari
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
49 views4 pages

Pressure Switch Calibration

The document outlines the process for calibrating and testing pressure switches in HVAC systems, emphasizing the importance of comparing calibration errors to tolerance limits. It provides detailed steps for testing continuity, resistance, and voltage using a multimeter, as well as troubleshooting tips for faulty switches. If a switch fails calibration, it should be adjusted or replaced, and the calibration frequency may need to be reassessed based on historical results.

Uploaded by

Aftab Ahmed Mazari
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 4

You have to need to calculate the errors found in the calibration and compare that to

the max allowed tolerance for that switch.


Check your findings with tolerance limits of switch.
Calibration passed or failed?
In the case of the switch failed the calibration, then you need to either adjust the switch
or replace it. Even if it passes the calibration, you should still analyze how big the error
was. If the error was close to the tolerance limit, or if it had drifted much since last
calibration, it is good to adjust it to avoid a fail result in the next calibration.
And as with every calibration, based on the calibration result history, you should
consider if the calibration period should be changed. You don’t want to waste
resources on calibrating it too often, but also you don’t want to calibrate it so seldom
that you get a failed calibration result. A failed calibration result should anyhow always
start an investigation of the consequences. This can be expensive and work intensive.

Testing a pressure switch with a multimeter


Testing a pressure switch with a multimeter efficiently determines whether it is operating
as intended. Users can test for continuity, resistance, or voltage.

Testing for continuity or resistance


When testing a furnace pressure switch or an A/C pressure switch for resistance or
continuity, remember that the results should be opposite for these two types of
switches. A/C pressure switches are normally closed, so there should be continuity in
the switch when there is no power running to the switch. Furnace pressure switches,
alternatively, are normally open and there should be no continuity across the switch
when there is no power running to the switch.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform these tests.

1. Safety first
1. Turn off power: Ensure the power to the HVAC system is completely
turned off at the breaker. This is crucial to prevent any electrical shock or
damage.
2. Access the pressure switch: See the above section to know where
to find a pressure switch in a furnace or A/C condenser.
2. Testing continuity
1. Set the multimeter: Turn the multimeter knob to the continuity
setting. This is often represented by a symbol that looks like a sound wave
or the diode symbol. If the multimeter beeps when the probes are touched
together, it has a continuity sound feature.
2. Disconnect the switch: Carefully disconnect the electrical
connectors or wires from the pressure switch. The switch is tested
independently of the rest of the system.
3. Test continuity: Touch one multimeter probe to one terminal of the
pressure switch and the other probe to the other terminal. If the switch is
closed (A/C pressure switch) the multimeter should show continuity. If the
switch is open (furnace) the switch should show no continuity or open line
(OL). In both instances, the switch is working properly.
3. Testing resistance
1. Set multimeter to resistance: Change the multimeter setting to
measure resistance, which is often denoted by the omega (Ω) symbol.
2. Measure resistance: With the electrical connectors still disconnected,
measure the resistance across the terminals of the pressure switch. A
normally operating A/C pressure switch should show very low resistance,
close to zero ohms, when the system is at a normal operating pressure.
High resistance or OL (open loop) indicates a problem with the switch. A
functioning furnace pressure switch should have no resistance when the
furnace is powered down, and resistance when the furnace inducer motor
turns on.

Testing voltage
Testing the voltage of an HVAC pressure switch is easy with a furnace pressure switch
and more difficult for an A/C pressure switch. This is because the wires carrying load to
a furnace pressure switch are much easier to access. Therefore, this section focuses
only on furnaces. Follow these steps:

1. If necessary, connect the power supply wires to the pressure switch.


2. Place both multimeter leads to the terminals on the pressure switch. With the
furnace powered off, the multimeter should not show a voltage reading.
3. Turn on the furnace and wait for the thermostat to call for heat. When it does, the
multimeter will show the voltage signal coming from the thermostat, which is
typically 24V.
4. After a few moments, the voltage reading on the multimeter should drop back
down to 0V if the switch is properly closed.
5. If the reading on the multimeter does not drop down to 0V, then the pressure
switch is broken or there is something wrong with the draft created by the motor.
Note: If a pressure switch is found to be faulty it should be replaced. Read our article
on HVAC pressure switch replacement to learn more.

Troubleshooting a faulty pressure switch


Fixing a faulty pressure switch in a furnace or air conditioning condenser involves
several steps. This section describes some quick tips to deal with a faulty pressure
switch. However, the switch may fail again soon after fixing, and it may be better to
replace the switch altogether. Read our article on installing mechanical pressure
switches to learn more.

1. Safety first - turn off power: Always start by turning off the power to your
furnace or A/C unit to prevent any electrical accidents.
2. Check the manual: Refer to the system’s manual for specific safety
precautions and instructions.
3. Visual inspection: Check the pressure switch for any visible damage, such
as cracks or burns.
4. Check the tubing: Inspect the tubing connected to the pressure switch for
clogs, cracks, or disconnections. Sometimes, clearing a clog or replacing the
tubing fixes the issue.
5. Test the pressure switch: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the
pressure switch. With the HVAC system off, the switch should be open (no
continuity). When the system is on and operating at the correct pressure, the
switch should close (show continuity). If the switch does not close when it should,
it may be faulty. Learn more in the next section.
6. Cleaning: If the switch and tubing appear to be in good condition, try carefully
cleaning them. Dust or debris can sometimes cause the switch to malfunction.
7. Check system pressure: If the pressure switch seems operational but is
frequently opening or causing the system to shut down, verify that the system's
pressure is within the manufacturer's specified range. Pressure issues can be
due to leaks, blockages, or problems with the compressor.
8. Adjusting pressure settings: Some pressure switches allow for
adjustment. If the system’s manual provides guidelines for this, ensure the
settings are correct.
9. Professional help: If there is uncertainty at any point about performing these
steps, or if the problem persists after the attempt to fix it, it’s best to seek
professional assistance.
10. Warranty: Be aware that performing repairs may void any existing warranty on
the system. Check the warranty terms before proceeding.
FAQs
How to test a pressure switch with a multimeter?
Set the multimeter to continuity mode, disconnect the switch, and test for continuity. No
continuity indicates a faulty switch.

How to test a furnace pressure switch?


Disconnect power, remove wires from the switch, and use a multimeter in continuity
mode to check if the switch closes when the furnace is on.

Testing a pressure switch: what signs indicate failure?


A pressure switch fails if it shows no continuity when the system is running or if it
doesn't open when the system is off.

View our online selection of pressure


switches!

High Pressure Switches (From 50 Bar)

You might also like