What is commonly used to measure the pressure in a refrigeration system?

In refrigeration systems, pressure is a critical parameter that must be monitored for efficient operation and safety. A manometer is specifically designed to measure the pressure of gases or liquids in a system. It usually consists of a tube with fluid in it, with one end open to the atmosphere and the other end connected to the pressure source. The difference in fluid levels indicates the gauge pressure.

Manometers can provide accurate measurements of low pressures, which are common in refrigeration systems, making it the ideal instrument for this application. This is especially pertinent in determining the pressure levels within the evaporator or condenser, which are vital for system performance.

While thermometers measure temperature, barometers measure atmospheric pressure, and micrometers measure small distances or thicknesses, these instruments do not provide the specific pressure readings necessary for monitoring refrigeration systems, thus making them unsuitable for this purpose. Therefore, the use of a manometer in this context is appropriate due to its direct application in assessing system pressure.