Last updated: 7 November 2025
Turn Evacuations into Audit-Ready Proof
Facilities teams and contractors are being asked for better audit trails—proof you evacuated systems properly and handled refrigerant under the national scheme. This guide shows how to pull a vacuum with Testo 557, capture microns, and produce tidy reports that support building compliance and Australia’s ODS/SGG rules.
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Why it matters for Aussie HVAC techs
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Licensing + records: Under the Ozone Protection & SGG framework, refrigerant handling is licensed and auditors often check service notes, refrigerant movements, and test results.
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Fewer disputes: Clear micron logs and timestamps reduce warranty/insurance noise and help quality assurance for HVAC contractors.
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National context: Australia’s HFC phase-down encourages best-practice evacuation and documentation.
How the 557 Helps you Document Evacuations
Primary focus: how to pull a vacuum with Testo 557 (and log it)
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Connect large-bore evac hoses and isolate the circuit.
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Attach the external Pirani vacuum probe (Testo 0638 1557) to a clean, oil-free port away from the pump or oil trap.
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Start the pump and watch microns fall in the Testo app.
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Close valves for a vacuum rise (decay) test; confirm the reading stays stable at your target level.
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Export a PDF/CSV from the app and attach it to the work order for the building manager.
Bonus — How to use Testo 557 Micron Gauge:
The 557 displays microns via the external Pirani probe on the handset and in-app—ideal for documenting a deep vacuum before charging. Measuring range 0–20,000 microns; resolution 1 micron (0–1,000); accuracy ±(10 microns + 10% of reading) from 100–1,000 microns.
Need a spare? Keep downtime low with the External Vacuum Probe 0638 1557
ARCtick & environmental compliance snapshot
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Permit scheme: Refrigerant handling and equipment authorisation sit under the ARCtick framework—include your RHL/RTA numbers on reports and retain records. Reference: ARC Refrigerant Handling Licence
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Policy backdrop: Australia manages ODS/SGGs nationally (including the HFC phase-down)—robust documentation supports your environmental duty of care. Reference: DCCEEW
Quick comparison: Testo 557 vs Fieldpiece (Accuracy & Durability)
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Evac focus: Testo 557 uses an external Pirani probe; Fieldpiece SM480V has a built-in micron gauge.
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App & wireless: 557 → Testo Smart App (Bluetooth >20 m free field). SM480V → Job Link® with long wireless range ~350 ft / 106 m (line-of-sight). References: Testo 557 manual; SM480V operator manual testo-direct.com
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Ports & build: SM480V offers 4 ports (1×3/8″ + 3×1/4″) and a rugged, rubberised housing; 557 is a robust 4-valve manifold with the external probe included. Reference: SM480V operator manual/product page fieldpiece.com.resources
Compatibility quick hits
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Refrigerants: Extensive libraries including R32, R410A, R22—always check your instrument/app list before the job. Reference: Testo datasheet Instrumart
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Hose threads: Manifolds are typically 1/4″ SAE; SM480V adds a 3/8″ vacuum port for faster evacuation. Many R410A service valves are 5/16″, so pack adapters/hoses. Reference: SM480V manual fieldpiece.com.resources
Maintenance must-knows
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Keep oil out of the probe path; cap ports when not in use.
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Calibrate annually and attach the certificate to your QA pack.
When to upgrade
If Bluetooth pairing is flaky or reports don’t meet client audit requirements, move to the Testo 557s Smart Digital Manifold for the newer platform with guided menus and wireless probes.
Client story (Perth)
A facilities contractor managing two towers in the CBD standardised on the 557. By emailing micron logs + timestamps with each WO, audit requests dropped to near zero and renewals sailed through.
Related Reading
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ARCtick Compliance: How to Connect Testo 557 Bluetooth (Australia-Wide) — step-by-step pairing + audit-ready reports:
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Understanding Refrigerant Gauges: A Quick Explainer — pressures, temps, and when to use micron logs:
FAQs
Do building audits look for micron data?
Many do. Logged microns and a rise test are persuasive evidence of proper evacuation in building files.
Can the 557 generate attachable reports?
Yes—Bluetooth to the Testo app supports email/share of PDFs/CSVs.
Is the SM480V better for large sites?
It can be. Job Link® range ~350 ft / 106 m LOS helps on large rooftops/plant rooms.
What about AS/NZS references in audits?
AS/NZS 5149 outlines safety/environmental requirements your practices should align with—evacuation best practice supports these outcomes.
How do I prove licence compliance?
Include your ARCtick RHL on reports and retain records with job files.
Where can I get the 557 kit and a spare probe?
If your microns are stable and your reports are tidy, audits get easy. Use the Testo 557 with its external Pirani probe to pull a deep vacuum, run a rise test, and log everything—so your work stands up from Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin.
Ready to kit up? Shop Testo at HVACSHOP — manifolds, probes, hoses and more.
Written by Rica Francia Macaspac, content writer at HVACSHOP. Rica helps Aussie tradies and homeowners understand HVAC gear without the jargon, working with industry experts to ensure accuracy and local relevance.
(Reviewed 7 Nov 2025)