HVAC Shop Blog

The Inficon TEK-Mate is Australia's most widely used entry-level refrigerant leak detector — and for good reason. This complete guide covers how the TEK-Mate works, where it performs best, correct probe technique for Australian conditions, sensor tip maintenance, and how it compares to mid-range and premium options. Essential reading for apprentices, residential techs, and anyone considering their first professional leak detector.

Picking the wrong refrigerant leak detector costs you time, refrigerant, and repeat call-backs. This complete Australian buying guide compares every detector type — heated diode, infrared, UV dye, ultrasonic — across budget tiers from under $300 to $700+. Covers top brands including Inficon, Fieldpiece, and Javac, with straight application advice for residential splits, commercial HVAC, and large refrigeration systems.

Inficon and Fieldpiece are the two dominant refrigerant leak detector brands in Australia — but they suit different types of technicians. This guide compares every model head-to-head: TEK-Mate vs SRL8, DR82 vs D-TEK Stratus, heated diode vs infrared, and standalone vs Job Link ecosystem. Find out which brand fits your work pattern and budget before you buy.