best ultrasonic leak detector?

[lucas2]

I want to buy an ultrasonic leak detector to add to my arsenal. I want to know which one you guys think is the best and why. Thanks

[subcooling1]

We use a Amprobe brand ultrasonic leak detector. I don't know the model # but it's nothing too fancy. It comes with the detector, 2 probe attachments, headphones & carrying case. Runs on standard disposable batteries.
I've had very good success with this technique in finding the tiniest leaks.
I believe the unit runs about $250 & definitly worth it.

[DaveCR]

My experience with the AccuTrac VPE has been disappointing at best.

[marvin]

i have an old uld 1 amprobe that still works well ..
i alsohave an accutrak that after a small learning curve works very well.
on some leaks i have better sucess pulling the unit into a vac. to
leak check rather than using a pressurized system. must have something
to do with the sound frequency they work on.

[william antley]

I use the Amprobe ULD, a CPS 790, an old halide torch, a stethoscope, nitrogen & bubbles and my ears.
Of the bunch, the Amprobe and the CPS are my favorites.

[AtoZhvac]

i have an old uld 1 amprobe that still works well ..
i alsohave an accutrak that after a small learning curve works very well.
on some leaks i have better sucess pulling the unit into a vac. to
leak check rather than using a pressurized system. must have something
to do with the sound frequency they work on.

Do you mean using the ultra sonics while the system is in a vacuum?

Thanks

[marvin]

Do you mean using the ultra sonics while the system is in a vacuum?

Thanks

go to the accu trak web site & you will see that they can be used to locate a vac. leak.
had my first experiance using one on an old trane sidewinder & we
were able to locate the leak in a vac. with it. dont know what brand it
was but remember it was made in england.
have found the accutrak vpe to be very reliable but i usually start with around 50 psi & work my way up as needed. has something to do with the frequency range they operate in.

[JWB]

Old timer at previous job only used ultrasonic. His success rate was very good. I just ordered an Amprobe to add to my 3 h10s (1-"A", 1-"PM", and 1"G") I use the "G" most, but sometimes grab my dtek, though it is the most frusterating of all, really succeptable to wind through returns/airhandlers etc. Hope the ultrasonic rounds out my leak checks........

[Blackmira]

For the hardcore....
http://www.ctrlsys.com/products/leak_detection.php

[JWB]

Damn. They don't even list the price, must cost a month's salary.

[william antley]

When I bought mine, ten years ago at Grainger in Charlotte, NC., I paid about $445 and that included the transmitter.

[ndfrozen]

Yikes, its gotta be good even the navy requires it on their subs. Which means big $$$$$$.

[ChuckHVAC]

I agree about the frequency. We use accutracs, never tried an amprobe. They seem to always find the leak we don't find with a D-tek or bubbles. But they miss some of the leaks that we find easy the other ways. I think it has to do with frequency.
I always start with a D-Tek select and then try something else if that doesn't work. Lots of times the D-Tek goes off in an area but I cant pinpoint it, then I pinpoint it with the ultrasonic or bubbles.