Tag: buying-guide
All the articles with the tag "buying-guide".
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Best Boiler Test Kit for Hydronic Technicians (2026) — Field-Tested Picks
A proper hydronic boiler test kit isn't a single product — it's four instruments that work together. Start with the Testo 320 combustion analyzer, the...
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Best CNC Touch Probe (2026) — 3 Tested Picks for Setup and Inspection
For most shops running Haas, Mazak, DMG-MORI, or Okuma machining centers, the Renishaw OMP60 is the touch probe to buy — proven optical signal, ±1 µm...
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Best Combustion Analyzer for HVAC Techs (2026) — 4 Tested Picks
For most residential and light-commercial HVAC techs, the Testo 320 is the analyzer to buy — it has the sensor accuracy and durability to last 8+ years, the...
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Best Clamp Meter for Electricians (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For industrial electricians, VFD techs, and commercial maintenance crews, the Fluke 376 FC is the clamp meter to buy — True RMS AC and DC current, 1000A...
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Best Manometer for HVAC Technicians (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For HVAC work, the Fieldpiece SDMN6 is the manometer that lives in my pouch — dual-port, reads in inches of water and PSI, wireless to Job Link, and...
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Best Loop Calibrator for VFD and Instrumentation Techs (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For most VFD techs and instrumentation electricians, the Fluke 715 Volt/mA Calibrator is the loop calibrator to buy — simple two-button interface, 0–24mA...
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Best Megohmmeter for Electricians and VFD Techs (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For motor winding insulation tests, VFD power and motor leads, and general industrial maintenance up to 600V class, the Fluke 1587 FC is the megohmmeter to...
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Best Multimeter for HVAC Technicians (2026) — 4 Tested Picks
If you're a residential HVAC tech buying one meter to live in your truck for the next decade, get the Fluke 117 — it has the True RMS, microamp DC range for...
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Best Refrigerant Gauge Set for HVAC/R Techs (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For most refrigeration and HVAC techs in 2026, the Testo 550i is the digital gauge set to buy — it handles R-410A, R-454B, R-32, R-290, CO2 (R-744) and 30+...
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Best Refrigerant Leak Detector (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For commercial refrigeration and HVAC service, the Fieldpiece DR82 is the leak detector to buy — heated diode sensor, sensitivity to 0.1 oz/year, and works...
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Best Thermal Imager for HVAC Technicians (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For most HVAC field techs, the Seek ShotPRO is the thermal imager to buy — 320×240 resolution, real shutter calibration, and standalone operation (no phone...
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Best Vacuum Pump for Refrigeration Techs (2026) — 3 Tested Picks
For most refrigeration and HVAC techs, the JB Industries DV-285N Platinum is the vacuum pump to buy — 10 CFM two-stage, pulls reliably to 25 microns, and...
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Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace: Total Cost Comparison and Decision Guide
Compare upfront costs, operating costs by region, climate suitability, IRA tax credits, and lifespan for heat pumps vs gas furnaces to make the right HVAC decision.
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R22 Refrigerant Phase-Out: What You Need to Know and What to Do Now
R22 refrigerant is banned from production since 2020. Now $100+/lb, every leak is a crisis. Here is your replacement path with R410A and R32 options, costs, and timelines.
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Mini-Split vs. Central AC: Complete Comparison and Buying Guide
Mini-splits cost $1,500 to $5,000 per zone vs central AC at $5,000 to $12,000. Compare SEER2 ratings, installation requirements, and the best choice for your home.
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Tankless Water Heater vs. Tank: Cost, ROI, and Which to Choose
Tankless water heaters cost $800 to $1,500 vs tanks at $400 to $900 installed. Compare lifespan, energy savings, and installation complexity to pick the right one.
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Best Furnace Igniter Replacement — Universal and Brand-Specific Picks
Furnace not igniting? Here's how to identify your igniter type, the best universal replacements by brand, and how to swap one in 15 minutes.
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Furnace Repair or Replace? The Decision That Saves You Thousands
Use our age-and-cost rule to decide whether to repair your furnace or replace it. Includes repair cost ranges, red flags that mean replace now, and what a new furnace actually costs.