Superheat Calculators

One method to properly charge a split-system air conditioner, using a fixed-orifice metering device, is to measure the amount of superheat at the inlet of the condensing unit.  This method is commonly referred to as the "superheat method."  The correct system superheat value for this type of system is not constant and changes based on two factors. 

The two factors that influence the system superheat are the wet-bulb temperature entering the evaporator and the dry-bulb temperature entering the outdoor condenser.  Once these two values are known, using a slide-rule calculator the correct superheat value can be determined.

To properly charge a system, add or remove refrigerant until the actual superheat value is within ±5°F of the value obtained from the slide-rule calculator.  If the actual superheat value is higher than what is stated by the slide-rule calculator, add refrigerant to the system.  If the actual superheat is lower than what is stated on the slide-rule calculator, remove refrigerant.

Superheat calculators are available for R-22 systems as well as R-410A systems.  To purchase Carrier Corporation's superheat calculator, click on the "add to cart" icon below.