VIVOHOME VH1397CA

VIVOHOME 1/2 HP 5 CFM Dual Stage A2L HVAC Vacuum Pump Instruction Manual

Model: VH1397CA

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your VIVOHOME 1/2 HP 5 CFM Dual Stage A2L HVAC Vacuum Pump. Please read these instructions thoroughly before initial use and retain for future reference. This vacuum pump is designed for creating vacuum environments in various applications, including automotive air conditioning, HVAC work, and refrigeration systems.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.

  • Ensure the power supply voltage matches the pump's requirements (110 Volts).
  • Operate the pump in a well-ventilated area.
  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
  • Do not operate the pump near flammable liquids or gases.
  • Disconnect the power before performing any maintenance or repairs.
  • Keep children and unauthorized personnel away from the operating area.
  • This pump is designed for A2L refrigerants (R32, R1234yf, R454B) and other common refrigerants (R410a, R134a, R12, R22, R502, R404A, R407C). Ensure compatibility with your system.

3. Product Overview

The VIVOHOME VH1397CA vacuum pump is a dual-stage unit featuring a 1/2 HP high-torque motor and a 5 CFM flow rate, capable of achieving an ultimate vacuum of 0.2 Pa (15 Micron). It is equipped with multiple inlet fittings for broad compatibility.

VIVOHOME 1/2 HP 5 CFM Dual Stage A2L HVAC Vacuum Pump

Figure 3.1: Main view of the VIVOHOME 1/2 HP 5 CFM Dual Stage A2L HVAC Vacuum Pump.

Key Features:

  • Versatile Compatibility: Sparkless design suitable for A2L refrigerants (R32, R1234yf, R454B) and other common refrigerants (R410a, R134a, R12, R22, R502, R404A, R407C).
  • Powerful Performance: Dual-stage design with 5 CFM flow rate and 0.2 Pa ultimate vacuum.
  • Convenient Operation: Features an easy oil filling port, visible oil window, and bottom drain valve. Includes two bottles of vacuum oil.
  • Durable Construction: High-quality die-cast aluminum housing with an iron base and non-slip rubber feet for stability and longevity.
  • Safe Operation: Thermally protected motor, built-in fan, T-shape motor heat fins, and mesh vent design for effective heat dissipation.
VIVOHOME 5CFM Dual-Stage Vacuum Pump features

Figure 3.2: Overview of the VIVOHOME 5CFM Dual-Stage Vacuum Pump's main features.

Components:

The pump includes various components for its function:

  • Oil Filling Port: For adding vacuum pump oil.
  • Oil Window: Transparent window to monitor oil level.
  • Exhaust Port: With built-in cotton and metal filter to eliminate oil mist.
  • Air Inlet Ports: Includes 1/4'' SAE, 1/2'' ACME, and 3/8'' SAE fittings for various connections. Features an anti-backflow design.
  • Ergonomic Handle: For easy transport.
  • Non-slip Rubber Base: Provides stability during operation.
Air Inlet Port with various fittings

Figure 3.3: Detail of the Air Inlet Port with 1/4" SAE, 3/8" SAE, and 1/2" ACME fittings.

Oil-filling Port and Exhaust Port components

Figure 3.4: Illustration of the oil-filling port and exhaust port with internal filters.

4. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking, please verify that all items listed below are present and undamaged:

  • 1 x 1/2 HP 5 CFM Vacuum Pump
  • 2 x Bottle of Oil (330ml + 230ml)
  • 1 x Instruction Manual

5. Setup

Before operating the vacuum pump, perform the following setup steps:

  1. Placement: Place the vacuum pump on a stable, level surface in a well-ventilated area. Ensure adequate clearance around the pump for air circulation and heat dissipation.
  2. Oil Filling:
    a. Unscrew the oil filling cap.
    b. Carefully pour the provided vacuum pump oil into the oil filling port. Refer to the oil window to ensure the oil level is between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks.
    c. Do not overfill. The pump comes with two bottles (330ml and 230ml) of vacuum oil. The total capacity is approximately 420ml (MAX) to 300ml (MIN).
    d. Securely replace the oil filling cap.
  3. Power Connection: Connect the power cord to a grounded 110V electrical outlet.
Transparent oil window showing MIN and MAX levels

Figure 5.1: Transparent oil window indicating minimum and maximum oil levels.

6. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps for proper operation of your VIVOHOME vacuum pump:

  1. Connect Hoses: Attach the appropriate vacuum hoses to the system requiring evacuation and to one of the vacuum pump's inlet fittings (1/4'' SAE, 1/2'' ACME, or 3/8'' SAE). Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
  2. Open Valves: Open all valves on the manifold gauge set and the system to be evacuated.
  3. Start Pump: Turn on the vacuum pump. The pump will begin to draw a vacuum.
  4. Monitor Vacuum: Observe the vacuum gauge to monitor the evacuation process. The dual-stage pump is designed to pull down to 0.2 Pa (15 Micron). Continue running the pump until the desired vacuum level is achieved and stable.
  5. Isolate System: Once the desired vacuum is reached, close the manifold gauge set valves and then turn off the vacuum pump.
  6. Check for Leaks: Allow the system to sit under vacuum for a period (e.g., 15-30 minutes) and monitor the vacuum gauge for any rise in pressure, which would indicate a leak.
  7. Disconnect: After confirming no leaks, disconnect the hoses from the vacuum pump and the system.

Applications:

This vacuum pump is suitable for a wide range of applications:

  • HVAC Servicing
  • Automotive Air Conditioning
  • Refrigeration Systems
  • Material Defoaming
  • Solvent Degassing
  • Vacuum Packing
Examples of vacuum pump applications including HVAC servicing and vacuum packing

Figure 6.1: Various applications for the VIVOHOME vacuum pump.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your vacuum pump.

  1. Oil Level Check: Regularly check the oil level through the transparent oil window. Ensure it remains between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks.
  2. Oil Change: Vacuum pump oil should be changed regularly, especially after each use or if it appears cloudy or discolored. To change the oil:
    a. Ensure the pump is off and disconnected from power.
    b. Place a suitable container under the oil drain valve at the bottom of the pump.
    c. Open the oil drain valve and allow all old oil to drain completely.
    d. Close the drain valve and refill with new vacuum pump oil as described in the Setup section (Section 5).
  3. Cleaning: Keep the exterior of the pump clean and free from dust and debris. Ensure the motor's cooling fins and mesh vents are clear for proper heat dissipation.
  4. Storage: When not in use, store the pump in a dry, clean environment.

8. Troubleshooting

Refer to the table below for common issues and their potential solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Pump does not startNo power supply
Thermal overload protection activated
Motor issue
Check power connection and outlet
Allow pump to cool down; check for obstructions
Contact VIVOHOME support
Pump runs but does not pull vacuumLoose connections/leaks in system or hoses
Insufficient oil level
Contaminated oil
Pump malfunction
Check all connections for tightness; repair leaks
Add vacuum pump oil to correct level
Change vacuum pump oil
Contact VIVOHOME support
Pump runs loudly or vibrates excessivelyLow or contaminated oil
Loose components
Pump placed on uneven surface
Check/change oil
Inspect pump for loose parts
Ensure pump is on a stable, level surface
Oil mist from exhaustNormal during initial operation or with high moisture
Exhaust filter clogged
Monitor; should reduce over time
Clean or replace exhaust filter components

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact VIVOHOME customer support.

9. Specifications

FeatureDetail
BrandVIVOHOME
Model NumberVH1397CA
Power SourceCorded Electric
Voltage110 Volts
Wattage372 watts
Motor Horsepower1/2 HP
Maximum Flow Rate5 Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM)
Ultimate Partial Pressure0.2 Pa (15 Micron)
StyleDual Stage
MaterialAluminum, Plastic
ColorBlue, Silver
Product Dimensions (L x W x H)12.6" x 5.3" x 9.1"
Item Weight20.1 Pounds
Oil CapacityApprox. 420ml (MAX)
Inlet Fittings1/4'' SAE, 1/2'' ACME, 3/8'' SAE
Product dimensions of the VIVOHOME vacuum pump

Figure 9.1: Product dimensions and key specifications.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact VIVOHOME directly. Refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official VIVOHOME website.

© 2025 VIVOHOME. All rights reserved.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.