In case you were wondering

To perform a comprehensive analysis with Refrigeration CycleAnalyst, you need nothing special, just the standard set of HVAC/R diagnostic tools you most likely already carry:

• Pressure Measurement: Calibrated refrigeration gauges (analog or digital).
• Temperature Measurement: A reliable thermometer or thermocouple for capturing air temperatures and a dedicated pipe clamp or surface probe for accurate refrigerant line temperatures

For the most accurate diagnostic results, measurements should be taken at the following standardized locations. You can also refer to the System Diagram accessible from the System Information screen for a visual guide.

• Liquid Line (normally Warm/Hot): Secure your temperature probe to the liquid line approximately 4" (10cm) from the condenser coil outlet (the bottom line).
• Suction Line (normally Cool/Cold): Attach your probe to the larger suction line as close to the evaporator coil outlet as feasible (usually the top line).
• Return Air: Measure the temperature of the air being pulled into the evaporator coil (prior to passing through the coil).
• Condenser Air (In/Out): Capture air temperatures at the warmest points of the airflow entering and exiting the condenser coil.
• Compressor Temperatures: Measure the discharge and suction line temperatures on the lines approximately 2-3" (5-10cm) from the compressor.

For systems requiring manual data entry (refrigerants not yet incorporated into the app or Metric units), a reliable Pressure-to-Temperature (P/T) conversion is essential.

The RCA app provides a convenient bridge to Ref Tools by Danfoss (available via the 'Open Ref Tools' button on the P/T conversion screen). While we consider this a highly reputable industry resource for accurate conversions, you can use any P/T chart or digital manifold suite you prefer.

Note: Refrigeration CycleAnalyst is an independent diagnostic tool and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Danfoss. 'Ref Tools' is a trademarked property of Danfoss, provided here as a reference for technician convenience.

For Walk-in systems configured with dual evaporators connected to a single condensing unit, select the 'Dual Evaporator' button on the main data input screen.

The app will guide you through a specialized workflow to capture the distinct suction pressures and line temperatures for each coil. Refrigeration CycleAnalyst will differentiate between shared system-wide issues (such as compressor issues or refrigerant charge) and coil-specific performance issues (such as localized airflow restrictions or independent TXV malfunctions).

Refrigeration CycleAnalyst is fully compatible with both Imperial and Metric standards. To switch your preference:

1. Navigate to the System Information entry screen.
2. Tap the Settings (Gear) Icon in the upper right corner.
3. Toggle on 'Use Metric Units'.

Once enabled, the app will dynamically update all data entry fields and diagnostic results to display in Bar (pressure) and Celsius (temperature). This setting is saved globally across the app, ensuring a consistent experience from initial input to the final report.

With the increasing prevalence of small-charge hydrocarbon systems (such as R-290 or R-600a) that lack service access ports, non-invasive diagnostics are essential.

From the System Information screen, selecting the 'No Access Ports Available' button activates the app’s specialized 'Approach Method' function. By substituting traditional pressure readings with specific temperature data—including 'Approach' temperatures (the difference between the line and air temperatures)—the app will identify issues that can be cleared identified without pressure data and the app will provide a professional recommendation for system penetration to perform a deeper, pressure-based diagnosis if so indicated.

Note that this function is only available for reach-In systems using cap tubes as other system types are rarely sealed systems.

Yes. The Refrigeration CycleAnalyst is designed for high-reliability field use. Once your subscription is active, the app features a built-in grace period that allows for full diagnostic functionality even without a data connection.

The app will automatically sync and update your subscription status and service dates the next time it is launched while connected to a network. This ensures you can perform critical analyses in 'dead zones' without interruption.

 Yes. Your subscription is tied to your store account (Google Play, Apple ID, or Amazon). As long as you are logged into the same account on your second device, you can install and use the app on both your primary phone and your diagnostic tablet without additional charges.