In this short episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan talks about hoses and their various types and applications, particularly focusing on NAVAC hoses.
Charging hoses (NAVAC: NH5 and NH5L) ideally shouldn't be longer than 5-6 feet, as the longer the hose, the more refrigerant it will hold. Manifold gauges also have leak points, so it's usually better to use probes instead of manifolds to help with charging. Charging hoses with ball valves (NH5S and NH5SC) can help you control the flow and are great for recovery. Whenever you use charging hoses, they will have a core depressor on one side only (usually the 45-degree side, if applicable); the right amount should be exposed, and the seal should be in good shape.
Larger-diameter hoses with higher burst pressure are advantageous for recovery (though it's better to have separate hoses for recovery and evacuation). Larger-diameter hoses of a shorter length will allow you to get a higher flow rate, including cases where you have 1/4" connectors (though the F1028 & F1029 Rapid Y connection fittings can help out with those cases where you have 1/4" connectors by giving you the ability to connect two 3/8" hoses); hoses with a diameter of 3/8" are usually the biggest recommended ones for recovery. NAVAC's recovery hoses are the NHR38AA and NHR38AB.
Evacuation hoses are even bigger. Some good evacuation hoses include the NH34AB and NH34AC; they are short 3/4" hoses that are vacuum-rated and quite flexible. NAVAC also has smaller hoses, which tend to look more like recovery hoses. You do not want to use 1/4" hoses and core depressors for evacuation, but they are good for charging.
Check out all of the hoses NAVAC has to offer at https://navacglobal.com/products-by-category/hoses-kits/.
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