NATE Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The manifold gauge is the primary tool used to measure refrigerant pressure in HVAC systems. It consists of a set of pressure gauges and service ports, allowing technicians to monitor the high and low side pressures of the refrigerant within a system. By connecting the manifold gauge to the appropriate ports, a technician can assess the operating conditions of the system, diagnose issues, and determine if the refrigerant charge is adequate or if there is a leak that needs addressing.

Other tools mentioned, such as thermometers, are more suited for measuring temperature rather than pressure. A protractor is used for measuring angles, which is not applicable in the context of refrigerant systems. A multimeter is useful for measuring electrical voltages, currents, and resistance, but it does not provide the capability to assess refrigerant pressures. Thus, the manifold gauge stands out as the essential tool for accurately measuring refrigerant pressure in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.