Last updated: 7 November 2025
Working on R32 or R410A from Adelaide to Cairns? Your manifold needs to prove evacuation and make record-keeping easy. This guide shows how to use the Testo 557 vacuum probe to reach a deep vacuum, log microns, and store reports that support ARCtick obligations and AS/NZS good practice — and it compares real-world workflow with Fieldpiece SM480V so you can choose what suits Aussie rounds from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane to Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin.
Why it matters for Aussie HVAC techs
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Meet AS/NZS outcomes: Good evacuation practice helps you hit the safety/environmental goals in AS/NZS 5149-style frameworks.
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Fewer call-backs: Solid low-micron, stable rise tests = fewer moisture and leak dramas post start-up.
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Audit-ready docs: App logs + PDFs/CSVs make ARC checks quick and painless.
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Built for our climate: Humid Brisbane, salty Perth rooftops, “four seasons in a day” Melbourne — reliable measurement and clean reports save time anywhere.
How the Testo 557 Handles Vacuum
How to use Testo 557 vacuum probe (step-by-step)
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Fit the external Pirani probe to a clean, oil-free port away from the pump/oil trap.
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Pair the 557 with the Testo Smart App to view live microns and create job logs.
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Pull down using short, clean hoses and fresh pump oil.
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Isolate the system and run a vacuum decay (rise) test; confirm stability at your target microns before charging.
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Export a PDF/CSV from the app and attach it to the job file for ARC and warranty records.
Probe capability (at a glance):
Range 0–20,000 microns; resolution down to 1 micron in the low range; accuracy ±(10 microns + 10% of reading) from 100–1,000 microns — plenty for domestic, light-commercial, and many plant-room evacuations.
Bluetooth pairing & range:
The Testo 557 Bluetooth is rated >20 m in free field — pair near the unit first; metal plant rooms and walls reduce range.
Need a spare probe? Genuine part here (use once): External Vacuum Probe 0638 1557
ARCtick & AS/NZS at a Glance
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Licences: If your task could release refrigerant (install, commission, service, decommission, decant), you need the appropriate ARC Refrigerant Handling Licence (RHL); your business needs a Refrigerant Trading Authorisation (RTA). Add licence numbers to invoices and job reports.
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Standards: AS/NZS 5149 (Parts 1–4) frames safety/environmental requirements for refrigerating systems; rigorous evacuation supports leak minimisation and safe operation.
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Environmental duty: Australia’s Ozone Protection & SGG framework (including the HFC phase-down) expects accurate records and responsible handling.
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Quick comparison: Testo 557 vs Fieldpiece SM480V (Australia)
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Micron method: Testo 557 uses an external Pirani probe (excellent low-micron sensitivity). SM480V has a built-in micron gauge (no extra sensor).
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Wireless & app: 557 → Testo Smart App (Bluetooth >20 m free field). SM480V → Job Link® with long wireless range ~350 ft / 106 m line-of-sight.
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Ports & build: SM480V offers 4 ports (1×3/8″ + 3×1/4″) and a rugged, weather-friendly housing; 557 is a robust 4-valve design with the external probe included.
Search-friendly compatibility block
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Refrigerants: Extensive libraries including R32, R410A, R22 — always check your instrument/app list before the job.
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Hose threads: Manifolds are typically 1/4″ SAE; SM480V adds a 3/8″ vac port for faster evacuation. Many R410A valves require 5/16″ hoses/adapters.
Aussie buyer tip:
If you’re often on coastal rooftops or big plant rooms, SM480V’s long-range link and rugged housing are handy. If you prioritise Pirani-level sensitivity and simple app exports, Testo 557 remains a reliable all-rounder — see how “testo 557 vs fieldpiece sm480v” stacks up for your workflow.
Maintenance must-knows
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Keep ports and the vacuum path oil-free; cap probes when not in use.
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Calibrate annually under your QA system and file the certificate with your ARC documents.
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Update app/firmware before big maintenance blocks; back up job PDFs to your shared drive.
When to upgrade
If microns bounce around, Bluetooth is flaky, or you’re still on paper logs, step up to 557s for a smoother app workflow — or consider SM480V if you want a built-in micron gauge plus longer wireless range.
Client story (Brisbane)
Jess manages South Bank offices. Swapping an analogue set for Testo 557 + Pirani probe shortened evacuations and produced clean micron graphs attached to every service docket. Audits got easier, and call-backs dropped across her sites.
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:
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Testo 557s Smart Digital Manifold (upgrade path) — newer platform and modern Bluetooth workflow:
FAQs
Do AS/NZS standards require a specific micron target?
No fixed number is mandated; standards focus on outcomes. Use OEM/industry targets and prove a stable deep vacuum via logged microns.
Is ARCtick mandatory for split-system work?
Yes—if your task could release refrigerant, you need an RHL (and the business needs an RTA).
Does the 557 app create reports?
Yes—Bluetooth to the Testo Smart App supports logging and shareable reports (PDF/CSV).
SM480V vs 557 for long distances?
SM480V’s Job Link® system reaches ~350 ft / 106 m (line-of-sight)—handy on large rooftops and plant rooms.
How often should I calibrate?
Annually is a common cadence; retain certificates with your ARC records (or sooner if contract specs require).
Where can I learn manifold basics?
Check our intro explainer above: Understanding Refrigerant Gauges.
When your records are clear and your microns are solid, audits and handovers are drama-free. Master how to use the Testo 557 vacuum probe, run a proper rise test, and export reports every time—so your work stands up in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin.
When your records are clear and your microns are solid, audits and handovers are drama-free. Master how to use the Testo 557 vacuum probe, run a proper rise test, and export reports every time — so your work stands up in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin.
Ready to kit up? See the Testo 557 Digital Refrigeration Gauge with Vacuum Probe
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.