If you are planning to start an HVAC repair and maintenance business, you might think of going for an affordable refrigerant scale such as the Elitech LMC-100F Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale. The problem with buying products with a lower price tag is finding one worth the money.
You may find yourself asking questions such as: Is this scale durable? Can you get the same functions and features that high-end products have? Will this unit provide accurate weight readings when recovering or charging my refrigerant tanks?
The Elitech LMC-100F shines as one of the most budget-friendly refrigerant scale options you will find in the market. I saw a reviewer say that it worked better than most of the expensive options in the market. And that’s a good sign you are about to invest in a product that will solve your needs as a technician.
But what other qualities does this scale provide to a professional HVAC technician? Should you ditch it for pricier options?
Well, in this article, we would like to write a review on it. Our team at Refrigerant HQ did a few tests on this product, and we can assure you that it has a lot to offer. Read further to know more about it.
Brand
This weighing scale comes from a reputable brand, Elitech. We are huge fans of products from this company because they have quality HVAC tools ranging from digital data loggers, leak detectors, vacuum pumps, digital pressure gauges, digital thermometers, temperature controllers, air quality monitors, among others.
Why should an HVAC technician have any of their products in their tool bag?
Elitech focuses on producing some of the most innovative, durable, and affordable products. I reviewed several of them, and to be honest, people are always happy to buy their tools. The brand also understands the needs of different markets since they are in over 170 countries worldwide. So, whichever part of the world you are in, you are sure of getting a product that caters to your needs and budget.
The company also has a team of engineers and technicians in their client support team. In case of an emergency or an issue, these experts will provide personalized care and solutions to your problems. You can also rely on the user manuals they include within the package if you want to learn how to use their products. They also have downloadable copies and video tutorials on their website. I find them detailed and precise.
On the other hand, the only issue I have with this brand is the one-year warranty they offer on all their products. For me, it’s too short. On top of that, while they have a reliable app for convenience, some of their devices don’t have smart capabilities. Ensure you crosscheck this function, especially if you love smart devices, before buying any of their product.
Product Features
So what kind of package should you expect to receive once you buy the Elitech LMC-100F? Basically, the product comes as a package that consists of a heavy-duty carrying case. Inside the case, you’ll find the scale, a remote control, a replaceable LR61 9V battery, and a user manual.
The scale has a rugged and compact construction and offers a weighing capacity of 110lb (50 kgs). It has thick aluminum walls, which guarantee durability and stability. The top part features a 9X9-inch non-slip platform where you can place most of the refrigerant tank sizes on the market. You will also find four rubber feet at the bottom of the scale to reduce impact and scratches when placing tanks on it.
The remote connects with the scale using a long-flexible cord. It has a wide display, which helps you quickly see the unit’s calibration. Below the screen is the control panel. It has four buttons, which include the on/off button, Z/T to help zero out during measurements, a unit button that displays pounds and kilograms, and a lamp button to light the backlight.
Operating this refrigerant scale
Start by opening the case. Insert the 9V battery into the remote control’s battery compartment and press the power button to turn it on. The device will flash 000 to 9999 quickly and enter weighing mode. Click the zero button to zero it out before placing any refrigerant tanks on it.
You can test the accuracy of this unit by placing a marked weight on it to see if it will provide an accurate result. It’s advisable to do so, especially if you are about to charge or recover refrigerant into a sensitive HVAC system. You can switch the metric value from pounds to kgs (and vice versa) using the unit button. If it provides an accurate reading, place your refrigerant tank/cylinder on the scale to start the recovery process. Ensure that the tank doesn’t weigh more than the scale’s weight capacity.
Pros
How does the Elitech LMC-100F Refrigerant Charging Weight Scale benefit a HVAC technician? Definitely, this s a go-to product for anyone who wants a durable unit that will last for many years. We loved the durable construction on the scale. Additionally, the carrying case protects the refrigerant scale when moving it from one place to another.
The other benefit of this product is the pricing. It’s quite affordable. I saw several clients on Amazon saying that it does operate better than most of the expensive options in the market today. The scale also provides accurate readings since it has a 0.05% reading of 5g and a 2g resolution. You can use it to charge or recover refrigerants from the most sensitive HVAC systems.
We can also say that this unit is easy to operate and maintain. Yes, it is. I am yet to see anyone complaining that they had any problems using it.
Another thing we loved on this product was the auto shut off feature. We find this function energy efficient since the scale will save the battery charge if it’s idle for 10 minutes. The remote control’s backlight will also shut off if you don’t use the device for 10 minutes.
I also love the support Elitech offers to customers. Although they provide a one-year warranty (I find it short, by the way), I noticed that they give refunds if you find any defects. That’s why we advise you to carry out an accuracy test before you start using it in the field.
Cons
Although the Elitech LMC -100F is efficient, it still has its drawbacks. For instance, it doesn’t come with a solenoid or charge valve. You may have to be present to monitor the recovery or charging process to avoid overfilling the tank or the compressor.
Besides this, you can only place refrigerant tanks that weigh 50kgs or less. Hence, you can only use this for small refrigerant recovery processes.
Note that the 9V battery is not rechargeable. Even though the battery life is 30 hours, looking for replacements adds to maintenance costs. As a technician, you may need extra batteries in case the one you have depletes the charge in the field.
Conclusion
That’s all we had for today. I hope you have all the information required to buy this product.
So, is the Elitech LMC-100F a reliable refrigerant scale to buy? Well, for me, I think this would be a great product, especially, for people who are looking for a budget-friendly refrigerant scale. Furthermore, it is durable, and you should expect to get accurate readings.
We will also recommend it for technicians who deal with smaller HVAC systems since it has a weight capacity of 110lbs. It can handle most refrigerant cylinder sizes as well as most refrigerant types. For more information about this product, head over to its Amazon Buy Page via this link.