David Holt from NCI comes on the podcast to talk about airflow testing and its importance as a customer service tool for the HVAC trade. Charging and airflow are closely linked. Even though the charge may be correct, the system can't operate correctly if the airflow is off. For example, we can only get the most latent heat removal in humid climates if we run lower fan speeds. To get the right balance, we need contractors and technicians to be educated on airflow so that they can make the correct adjustments. (Remember your ABCs: Airflow Before Charging.) Testing airflow may require you to make adjustments to the system, such as installing test ports. You need to be able to measure static pressure in your system, and you can tell if previous contractors have done it or not by the presence (or absence) of test ports. On the customer service side, pointing out the lack of test ports or other testing evidence allows the customer to discredit the previous contractor; you don't have to be negative about someone else to get customers to trust your company over the others. Testing also keeps your installers honest; almost everybody will realize that their company has made mistakes after they test the system airflow. One of the best ways to educate customers is to speak in terms they understand. For example, David compares static pressure to blood pressure in our bodies. In that same vein, we'd be committing malpractice if we refused to test airflow or disclose our test results. David and Bryan also discuss: Qualitative vs. quantitative data Low-bid contractors System airflow impacts on combustion How to measure static pressure Pressure drops across coils and filters Variable speed motors Sales vs. technical excellence Premium pricing and earning what you're worth   Check out NCI at hvactoday.com. Also, check out the AirMaxx Lite app. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan covers the basics of sunk costs. He explains what they are and what they mean for you and HVAC businesses. Sunk costs are costs to decisions that have been made in the past. You've "sunken" money, time, or effort into a decision. Let's say you invest in tools; after you make that purchase, the cost of the tools will become a sunk cost. The cost merely occurred in the past. It is a good idea to reflect on these costs as something that is already over; you can reflect on these costs as a lesson for how you invest money in the future. It is not particularly helpful to view sunk costs as a past cost that keeps you down. The same mindset applies to employment. Someone may hire you, and you may realize that the job is exactly what you thought it was; other times, the job may be a poor fit. If you can look back and say, "If I could redo the choice to take this job with what I now know about it, I wouldn't take it," then you may want to consider finding another job. In other words, sunk costs allow you to reflect; they aren't a specific category of costs like overhead. Very few situations require us to take pause and reject attachment to sunk costs. In short, viewing past decisions in terms of sunk costs can help us make logical decisions about buying tools, hiring employees, and accepting employment offers. Sunk costs factor your experiences into decision-making, but we have the choice to cling to those costs or detach ourselves from them.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Steve Rogers from the Energy Conservatory comes on the podcast to talk about residential air balancing and flow hood accuracy. Residential air balancing is important because it contributes to comfort in the home. To achieve the most comfort possible, we need to know where the air is going inside the home. For example, some rooms may be more conditioned than others, even if they may need less conditioning than the under-conditioned rooms. A flow hood can give us some data about the airflow in the ductwork; there are cases where dampers may be closed, which blocks airflow and contributes to customer discomfort. Load calculations can only help so much. Systems require flexibility because air distribution can vary across seasons or throughout the day. HVAC systems won't always perform under design conditions, so it's a good idea to think about customer comfort above Manual J or Manual D calculations. Flow hoods are some of the best tools for residential air balancing; they can tell you where there is flow and where there is not. However, flow hoods are expensive and may not be completely accurate if they haven't been calibrated correctly. Many manufacturers use a single supply register configuration or wind tunnel for calibration. Many flow hoods use a pitot array, which is a grid that attaches to a manometer. Others use the RPM of an impeller to measure the flow; they also compensate for resistance. Some hoods also use vane anemometer technology. You can typically determine the insertion losses by looking at the hole size. Steve and Bryan also discuss: Pressure vs. velocity Air handler location Load calculation (Manual J) Balancing dampers Anemometers vs. flow hoods Insertion loss Flow conditioning Building envelope construction TrueFlow Grid Accuracy questions about flow hoods   Check out THIS webinar with Steve and Bill Spohn. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan covers the unique practices of brazing steel. He also explains how it differs from brazing copper. Brazing steel appears to be a rather uncommon practice in the HVAC industry. However, we actually do braze steel when we braze in compressors. Many compressors have copper-plated steel stubs; only the outer coating is copper, and if you burn through it, you'll reach the steel. However, steel requires a different fluxing agent than copper-to-copper or copper-to-brass brazing; you can't use a 15% silver-phosphorus rod because phosphorus doesn't react well with steel. Instead, you will need a high-silver rod WITHOUT phosphorus when brazing steel to steel, copper, or brass. We recommend using a separate fluxing agent or flux-coated rods. However, high-silver rods are expensive and REQUIRE flux. When working with a compressor with copper-plated steel stubs, try to get all the solder off with heat. When working with steel, you must keep in mind that it has a higher melting temperature and lower thermal conductivity. In other words, you can apply more heat to steel without it melting, but the heat doesn't transfer to steel as easily as it does to copper. You'll want to move your torch around more and pay more attention to the tip you use. Even though the thermal properties differ from copper, you're still aiming to get the steel to a dark cherry red color, about 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember, you also want to protect any other components that will come into contact with the heat. You can use a wet rag or Refrigeration Technologies WetRag, which works great as a heat-blocking putty.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

John Pastorello from Refrigeration Technologies is back on the podcast to talk about leak detection procedures from start to finish. Big Blu was what started the Refrigeration Technologies empire. John developed Big Blu to create a bubble leak detector with a higher sensitivity to leaks than any other bubble test solution on the market. Big Blu differs from other leak detection solutions because it detects gas leakage down to 0.65 ounces per year, putting it on the same level as some of the best electronic leak detectors. One of the most common misconceptions in our industry is that systems don't leak at all. That is simply not true; all systems leak to some extent. When we check for leaks, we want to check for unacceptable leak rates; detectors will normally reveal when a leak occurs at an unacceptable rate. Most of the leaks we check for are standing leaks, which we pinpoint when the system is off. We also have pressure-dependent leaks, temperature-dependent leaks, and vibration-dependent leaks. Those leaks vary with system operation, and you may even hear the leaks when the system is under a certain set of conditions. Overall, you want to use your senses to look for oil spots, listen for hisses, and feel for oil residue before using an electronic leak detector. If you get a hit, pull out the Big Blu. When using soap bubbles, also be sure to use a mirror and light source to look all the way around a joint. John and Bryan also discuss: Pressure distribution in the compressor Leak rate and molecule size Leaky valves and mechanical issues Cumulative micro-leaks Losing refrigerant from hooking up gauges repeatedly Leak detector sensitivity and calibration Efficiency during leak detection Oil spotting Evolution of leak detectors Checking for leaks on furnaces Testing leak detectors   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. You can also find their FREE Leak Detection Manual HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE

In this short podcast, Bryan dives into enthalpy. He explains what it is and how we see it at work in the HVAC/R systems we service daily. Enthalpy is a fancy word for the total heat energy within a substance. Don't confuse it with entropy, which is the disorganization of energy in a system. We measure enthalpy in energy per mass unit, such as BTUs per pound. Enthalpy combines both the sensible and latent heat capacity; for example, it may represent the energy that it takes to evaporate the water contained in the air. (Water vapor is always present in the air, not just at boiling. Evaporation also occurs at many temperatures below the boiling point.) So, the more water vapor in the air, the more enthalpy there is. Believe it or not, water vapor is less dense than dry air. So, we can't equate thermal mass to density. Air with a heavy concentration of water vapor has lots of latent heat trapped inside the water vapor. However, we won't recognize that heat until that water vapor condenses to a liquid at the dew point, such as on a cold evaporator coil. Relative humidity measures the moisture in the air as a ratio. An RH value of 100% indicates that the air is at saturation. That is also the point when the dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures will be the same. Overall, we don't care very much about enthalpy values on their own; in HVAC work, we want to calculate changes in enthalpy across parts of the system. We care about changes over the coil, such as drops over the cooling coil. Psychrometers come in handy when you are trying to look for trends in the enthalpy content of the system.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE

Jim Devlin from Weil-McLain joins us to talk about high-efficiency and cast-iron boilers. He also explains how to use them together in a "hybrid" configuration to serve your customers. Cast-iron boilers are standard-efficiency boilers. These boilers are "standard-efficiency" because they have higher return water temperatures; you typically measure about 330 degrees in the flue. Conversely, high-efficiency boilers have much lower return water temperatures, only around 180-190 degrees in the flue. The goal of a high-efficiency boiler is to get more BTUs out of the fuel, so your flue gases will be cooler. However, the standard boiler can be better for thermal transfer and gives us more leeway for our flue temperatures. Hybrid boiler plants aim to eliminate inefficiencies by using cast-iron and high-efficiency boilers together. These hybrid configurations usually exist in older constructions, but you also see them in new constructions with dual-fuel burner systems or where high-efficiency boilers won't have a good value on their own. You will often see a greater ROI on systems that use cast-iron and high-efficiency boilers together than on systems with multiple high-efficiency boilers. Hybrid configurations usually set up dissimilar boilers in series with a primary-secondary loop. The controls usually use sensors and 1-10v DC output signals, so these controls can modulate the burners. Many people make mistakes when piping these boilers; they don't understand the parallel positioning of the tees. When installers make these mistakes, the boilers lose efficiency. Jim recommends drawing out the piping to avoid making those errors. Jim and Bryan also discuss: Sulfuric acid and condensate Boiler metals Dual-fuel burner systems Boiler controls Hybrid vs. Combi-boilers Comparing utility reports and checking ROI Energy savings on cast-iron boilers Heat exchangers Future geothermal and solar hybrid systems   Visit weil-mclain.com to learn more. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Do you need different gauges for each refrigerant? In today's short podcast, we discuss the answer to this common HVAC question. When we first started using R-410A, many people warned us that we'd have to use a separate set of gauges when working on R-410A systems. That's because R-410A systems use POE oils, not mineral oil, and they are not compatible. While it is true that R-22 and R-410A systems use different oils, there is no need to worry about using separate gauges for each type of system. Actually, some manufacturers recommend using a little bit of POE oil in mineral oil systems. What you cannot do, however, is mix the refrigerants themselves. Many of the gauge hoses have quick disconnects, which cause some confusion regarding the de minimis rule. (The de minimis rule permits tiny refrigerant losses from regular servicing, and de minimis DOES protect us.) However, we aim to keep our hoses clear anyway. We do that by bleeding liquid refrigerant back into the suction line after servicing. So, the real concern doesn't lie in which refrigerant we use with our gauges. The real issue is about taking steps to avoid contamination of the entire system and stay in compliance with EPA standards. Mixing POE and mineral oil does not negatively affect a refrigeration system; however, moisture does pose a threat to POE oil. Again, the core issue deals with best practices: flushing and purging hoses, minimizing the risk of hydrostatic pressure, avoiding venting, and avoiding mixing refrigerants. Of course, you don't have to worry about any of these problems and practices if you check the charge without gauges. Using probes is an easy way to get good measurements without worrying about contamination   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this two-part interview, Moe Hirsch goes deep and wide on buffer tanks and strategies for "parking" BTUs in hydronic systems. Systems with a high domestic hot water load can also benefit from a buffer tank. You can pipe the domestic hot water tank as its own zone and step down the rest of the structure. However, there will be some standby losses for a tradeoff greater capacity. You also cannot use the buffer tank as an air eliminator or separator; they work only for BTU parking. Contrary to popular belief, buffer tanks do NOT prevent flue gas condensation. If the buffer tank reaches 120-130 degrees, then it may prevent flue gas condensation via the flywheel effect. Flue gas condensation on boiler systems has to do with excess air, combustion, and run cycle length. Moe and Bryan also discuss: Water storage temperature Using a biomass boiler as a backup Stratification: tall tanks vs. wide tanks Cycle times and mathematical formulas Outdoor reset targets Boiler startup conditions Manual reset high limit

In this two-part interview, Moe Hirsch goes deep and wide on buffer tanks and strategies for "parking" BTUs in hydronic systems. When we use boilers, we want to use a heat sink to "park" BTUs in a buffer tank so that we can temporarily store extra heat and avoid short cycling through load matching. However, few boilers have an actual buffer tank; many systems have a means of creating a buffer, though. Buffer tanks are good for parking BTUs in systems with zones and microzones that require varied heating needs. The amount of BTUs you store depends on the temperature difference between the beginning and end of the tank and the water quantity. Moe and Bryan also discuss: Pressure tanks Variable frequency drives Getting extra BTUs Snowmelt systems and Combi-boilers Two-pipe and four-pipe configurations Creating and positioning buffer tanks Hydraulic and air separation Reverse indirect water heaters Parking BTUs in concrete Dirt and magnetic separation

In today's short podcast episode, Bryan covers the basics of refrigerant oil in HVAC/R systems. He also discusses what technicians can do to maintain oil systems. Oil lubricates the moving parts of the compressor. So, oil moves with the refrigerant and lubricates the parts as the refrigerant moves through the compressor. Unfortunately, oil can migrate to other parts of the circuit when it's not supposed to. Flooding occurs when liquid refrigerant enters the compressor crankcase, and slugging occurs when liquid gets into the compressor head. When either of those happens, they can eject oil from the system. When a system has insufficient oil, the compressor's moving parts can heat up and wear out quickly. We can use an array of preventative strategies to keep oil in the system and reduce the risk of compressor damage. We want to keep our discharge lines below 225 degrees to prevent oil (or lubricant) breakdown. To prevent the compressor from overheating, we want to look at mass flow rates and compression ratios. We should also make cleanliness a priority, as dirty components can increase the compression ratio. Oil has evolved with refrigerants. We largely used mineral oil with HCFCs like R-22, but we have begun using POE oil with HFC refrigerants like R-410a. Newer HFCs are generally NOT miscible with mineral oil, but we must be careful with POE and PVE refrigerants because they are hygroscopic. These oils break down via hydrolysis when they react with moisture, and they become acidic. So, we need to keep POE and PVE systems dry to prevent damage. Bryan also covers: Hard shut off TXVs Pump down cycles Oil return Viscosity Oil velocity and pipe design Miscibility AB oil   Check out our oil article HERE. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's podcast, Kevan Mayer from NAVAC comes talks about recovery and ways to make it work better and more safely for you. Recovering refrigerant is better for the environment and safer for us. When designing recovery equipment, NAVAC's goal is to limit the gases we put into the atmosphere and leave the planet in better shape than we gound it. Recovery also ensures that refrigerants for phased-out refrigerants remain available. Tanks require vacuums of at least 1000 microns, if not deeper. We also need to remember what the previous tank contents were to make sure that we only fill the tank with those refrigerants and oils. You absolutely DO NOT want to mix refrigerants. Tanks should always be up-to-date and must be certified every 5 years. When recovering refrigerant, one of the best practices is to use a filter-drier to filter out moisture and contaminants. Reducing moisture and contamination will increase the life of your recovery machine. However, a filter-drier will not restore refrigerant back to the highest purity standards. The speed of your recovery will depend on your vacuum, recovery machine, hose sizing, and core removal. You can also raise pressure by turning the fan on. The goal to produce speedy recoveries is to reduce tank pressure and increase system pressure. When it comes to filling the tanks, we must pay attention to the tare weight and water capacity. However, we must understand that the water capacity is NOT the same as refrigerant capacity. We need to do a little bit of math to fill our tanks safely. Kevan and Bryan also discuss: Evacuation vs. recovery Reclaim company tank-handling protocols Refrigerant mixing costs/consequences Using recovered refrigerant legally Compression ratio Hose sizing and manifolds Push-pull method The 80% rule NRDD recovery machine   Learn more about NAVAC tools at navacglobal.com. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan covers the difference between volt-amps (VA) and watts when we take electrical measurements. We usually use VA to rate transformers, but we use watts for other electrical ratings. Even though you can multiply volts by amps to get wattage, the difference between VA and watts has to do with the power factor. Power factor is the ratio of apparent to active power. VA is the apparent power, and watts is active power. The difference between volt-amps and watts is called KVAR (kilovolt-amps reactive). The reactive volt-amps are not effective; you can compare them to the foam on a beer (if the entire beer is the VA, the watts are the actual beer). When we look at motors, we want to know how much actual work that motor is doing. That's why motor ratings are in watts or horsepower; the utility company is also probably going to charge you in watts. However, we want to measure transformers in VA because we are more concerned about the exchange of current, not necessarily the work to be performed. (Smaller transformers use VA ratings, while larger transformers have KVA ratings.) Our goal is to have a power factor of 1, as that indicates a minimal amount of ineffective reactive power. In those cases, our motors and other electrical components will be working efficiently. There is also less unnecessary heat when our systems have a power factor of 1. When our systems get out of whack, we may have to do power factor correction.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this episode, I talk with tech, contractor, and consultant Genry Garcia. He tells us about his experiences with independent consulting and helping other contractors in South Florida. A chunk of Genry's work deals with independent consulting, which primarily focuses on helping other HVAC businesses and contractors instead of customers. South Florida has unique climate considerations, and Genry focuses on improving workmanship in a way that works well with the climate. Diagnosis remains important in Genry's work, as he needs to find and solve issues with HVAC companies in his work. Genry and Bryan both believe that the future of the industry lies in a non-judgmental approach towards technicians and customers; Genry's consulting approach aligns with that vision for a better HVAC industry. In South Florida, oversizing equipment is a severe issue. The hot and humid climate of South Florida leads to technicians oversizing the equipment to deal with the heat, but the runtime is too short to help with latent heat removal. So, Genry tries to get the full picture of an install by contacting everyone associated with the installation to gather information. He also focuses his education and training on correct equipment sizing and air balancing to help technicians in his climate zone. Equipment sizing has to do with heat load and air balance. So, some of Genry's work also involves measuring pressures and balancing the supply and return air to maximize comfort. We also have to be aware of balancing heat and moisture when we adjust the structure or system. Genry and Bryan also discuss: Tech support "Competing" for customers Repetitive HVAC training and education Data logging Building occupancy and its effect on load Helping consumers understand sizing issues Load matching Zonal pressure matching   Check out Genry's website HERE or contact him via his email address: [email protected] Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, we talk about condensate drains. We get into the basics of cleaning, pitch, drain pans, and more. Cleaning drains sounds like an easy task, but it can be a bit time-consuming and difficult to get right. Instead of just "blowing out the drain," you must check the entire drain and be aware of buildup in traps and other hard deposits that form inside the piping. Sometimes, you may need to use cleaners to dissolve the sludge and grime. Cleaning is about understanding the drain anatomy and checking it thoroughly to identify and attack the source of the buildup. You also need to clean the drain pan. Drain pitch is also important for proper drain operation. The horizontal runouts need a slight downward pitch to move the pipe contents. We recommend using 1/4" per foot of fall on horizontal runouts. Insulation is also important on horizontal runouts in areas like attics and other unconditioned spaces. Secondary drain pans should have about 3 inches of overlap in all directions, especially over the supply. Improper drain pan setup can cause messes later, and we don't want condensate dripping all over the place. Make sure you install your units in the proper configuration. Be willing to tweak the design to make sure the drain pan is sturdy and collects condensate well. As you would ensure that your unit is level, you need to make sure the secondary drain pan is level and supported properly. You also need to think about float switches. If you have multiple float switches, you need to wire these in series. These components also require thorough testing; each one should be able to break the circuit. We also discuss: Strapping the drains Venting Double-trapping   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Bert and Bryan discuss the commonly repeated phrase, "refer to manufacturer's specs," in HVAC work. They discuss when referring to the manufacturer's specs works and when it feels like a crutch. Sometimes, you need to read the manufacturer's specs so that you can use the correct kits and components if specific parts or tools are necessary. Without knowing the specific product numbers given in the specs, you wouldn't be able to do the job properly. The manufacturer's literature can also explain equipment performance under certain conditions. In very specific applications, including VRF/VRV systems, you will want to be aware of specific procedures. Manufacturer specs also provide vital information for installations; while manufacturer literature can help with troubleshooting, the manual isn't always always as trustworthy for servicing equipment. However, manufacturer specifications can also be outdated or incorrect. For example, many manufacturers refer to outdated evacuation methods in their literature; they use information based on poor vacuum pumps. Many manufacturers also recommend doing triple evacuation, but a deep evacuation can usually suffice without needing to do a triple evacuation. Manufacturers also aren't aware of products like Nylog that don't contaminate the system, so manufacturers advise NEVER to use thread sealants. Overall, you must understand your equipment and use the manufacturer's specs to help you understand the equipment. If you use them as a step-by-step guide for servicing, then you may be using those manuals as a crutch. Some techs also use the specs to justify certain charges and services, which Bryan finds quite annoying. Bert and Bryan also discuss: Technician profitability Advanced functions in the Ecobee thermostat manual Flare leaks Nitrogen usage Understanding applications and misapplications Customers, equipment failures, and spending money Charging the customer "according to manufacturer specifications"   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

By viewer request, Bryan talks about some solar system basics in this short podcast episode. Solar energy is an up-and-coming power source that will continue to emerge. However, oil is still very inexpensive, so the USA still depends on it quite cheaply. Many consumers also don't like the high up-front costs associated with solar energy. Photovoltaic energy creates a differential that moves electrons. Many customers also object to the bulkiness and lack of aesthetic appeal of solar panels. However, in places with unstable electrical grids like Haiti, using the sun as an energy source makes a lot of sense. American homes with panels can backfeed the grid, which makes the electrical company owe you credit for sending their energy back. The panels also store energy into batteries in areas with a weak electrical grid. However, these batteries can potentially be dangerous and expensive. Lead-acid batteries are commonplace in third-world countries. People use that stored energy at night when the sun can no longer power the panels. You need to calculate panel space, battery size, and peak solar times to create the most efficient system possible. Automatic shifting inverters can kick in and act as reverse charge controls that charge the batteries in both directions. If you were to build an off-grid system, you can set up battery banks, use a charge controller, and connect the system to an inverter or even a generator to provide additional power; your goal is to look for energy gains. Some batteries are rated in amp-hours, so you need to know what that terminology is and how it affects voltage. Panels are often rated in wattage. Be careful about bucking phases; you do NOT want to do that because it is unsafe. You also don't want to use solar on refrigerators or freezers for hot pull down.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Bryan and Bert talk through a real-life issue we all face as techs: work-life balance. Bert’s recent video “triggered” Bryan a bit, so they talk through it. Bryan believes that the work-life balance doesn't necessarily exist; instead of creating balance, he believes in a focus on discipline in work and home life as you're present to each of them. Instead of setting rules for dedicating his time, Bryan focuses on setting goals that can improve multiple parts of his life. That is how he is able to work at a high level in his company, make videos and podcasts, write articles, and raise a large family. The main issue that Bryan has with "work-life balance" is that the term focuses on value rather than focus. The term also implies that there has to be a 50/50 ratio of importance. He believed that Bert's video gave people license to give in to distractions at work. Bert is more inclined to pick up his personal phone at work if his wife is calling. He knows how to make time for his family because he knows how much his family values quality time. However, he understands that creating expectations is not the way to promote focus and balance in life. He knows that it's easy to create an issue when people feel unloved if their significant other doesn't pick up the phone at work, so he and Bryan discuss what love, prioritization, and open communication really look like. Bryan and Bert also discuss: Expectations and disappointment Balance and focus When people change in relationships How a spouse can promote focus in your work and home life Boundaries Enabling others Managing distractions at work Moving forward When are you working too much? Discussing goals and making hard decisions Setting priorities   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Today's short podcast episode is all about surge protection on HVAC/R equipment. Lightning poses a severe threat to equipment, and surge suppression may or may not help. Unfortunately, surge protection cannot protect HVAC equipment from direct lightning strikes. Surge suppression strategies connect to the high-voltage line and will protect your equipment from surges from the utility. Large, instantaneous spikes in voltage can mess up your equipment quite severely. In general, we install MOVs (metal oxide varistors) as surge protectors in residential and light commercial equipment. Series mode (SM) acts as a low-pass filter that blocks higher frequencies, but MOVs are our main go-to for surge protection. When the voltage is within the clamping voltage, the metal oxide varistor shunts or redirects current to ground instead of the device; these devices have very high resistance, and they can fail when they get too hot. In thermal runaway, the MOV is very hot but continues shunting the current; as a result, the MOV is at risk of catching on fire. Thermal protection can exist for MOVs. MOVs also need a strong, secure ground connection to operate correctly. Make sure the MOV is connected, and a good way to do that is to test from leg to ground. MOVs also require careful consideration during installation. These surge protectors can fit inside an ICM493 box that prevents catastrophic fire in the case of thermal runaway. Overvoltages below the clamping voltage can occur on MOVs, especially on inverter-driven compressors. ICM493s can also control overvoltages because they have voltage-monitoring capabilities (however, there is no published Joule rating). Both the LBK10 and ICM493 can shut off the equipment in the case of MOV failure.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this episode, we talk with Moe about the world of hydronics. We discuss some fundamentals and talk about various boiler and radiator types. Hydronic systems use water flow to move heat. We can compare these systems to railroads; the water is like a train carrying BTUs, and the BTUs get off the "train" at radiators. The pump moves water in a circle, though it moves that water pretty far. Boilers generally require a certain flow, and if a single circulator pump can't achieve that flow, we sometimes need to bring on a secondary circulator. Radiators can either be radiant or convective. Baseboards are a major part of conventional convective hydronic designs. Fin-tube baseboards are made of copper piping with aluminum fins on them. Cast-iron baseboards also exist and are commonplace in older homes, but Moe avoids installing them on newer homes. When designing systems, you don't want radiators holding on to heat for a long time. Recessed radiators go into the wall and are typically cast-iron; exterior walls require insulation. Freestanding radiators are typical of old designs but are making a comeback. Kickspace heaters go under cabinets and are fan-forced systems. Old boilers are generally cast-iron sectional boilers, and some are steel. Cast-iron boilers tend to be either dry-base (fire on the bottom) or wet-base boilers (power burner/gas-gun type). These old boilers also usually have tube bundles, especially wet-base boilers. Modern high-efficiency boilers are common nowadays. Combi boilers (combination boilers) also fall into the modern boiler category. Combi boilers act as on-demand water heaters. Moe and Bryan also discuss: Relief valves and pressure margins Purging hydronic systems Hydraulic separation Delta T and what it means for hydronics Condensing boiler temperatures Radiant vs. conventional baseboard systems Hydronic towel warmers Humidity and airflow control Boiler runtimes Short cycling and modulation   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's short podcast, we answer the following question: Should you ONLY use OEM parts? We also explain why the answer is what it is. It can be tricky to determine the value of OEM parts in general. For example, many OEM capacitors are very prone to failure. Some non-OEM capacitors have much lower failure rates. Operating conditions may also exceed manufacturer specs, so aftermarket components may be better for equipment in extreme conditions. When it comes to OEM parts, try to take those and the manufacturer bulletins at face value. However, you also want to do your own research. What are the OEM parts' fail rates? What are the operating conditions for the equipment? You have to ask yourself if the manufacturer's part is the most efficient and valuable one you can use for a given system. Go the extra mile to help your customers make the best possible decision for their unit based on efficiency, longevity, and price. Some techs avoid using aftermarket parts because of liability issues. For the most part, liability isn't a huge deal except on flammable equipment like furnaces and R-290 systems. However, in many cases, the quality of parts like capacitors and relays may be far greater on aftermarket equipment. Motors can be tricky, especially on blower motors with distinct fan curves from the OEM equipment. No matter what you do, make sure you consult with the customer and explain the benefits and drawbacks of each option so that the customer can make an informed decision. Also, follow your own company's guidelines.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this rather unorthodox short podcast episode, Andy gives his timeless soft skills tips. We also tell you a bit more about a special training event in Orlando in just a few weeks. Soft skills and communication are critical parts of the HVAC industry, especially residential HVAC. Customers don't compliment you on your tools; they compliment your service and attitude. We must acknowledge that we are in the people business and just happen to use tools when we work. Andy recommends being on time for every job; if you think you might be late, call the customer to let them know. When you greet customers, make sure you smile and be friendly. Put your listening skills first; during that first conversation with the customer, pay attention to them and make sure you let them talk about all of their concerns. When working with a customer, try to make sure that everything you do comes from a place of gratitude. Set the agenda with the customer and make sure that they understand exactly what the service entails. Show the customer everything you come across and involve them in the inspection and service process. Give the customer permission to follow you around and see what you're doing to build up that trust; the customer will know that you're doing your job and not trying to pull a fast one on them. It also helps if you begin to view the customer as a component of the system so that you can keep their well-being at the top of your mind. We are troubleshooters above all, and we would probably all do a bit better if we saw the customer as another part that needs to be taken care of.   Find more at TopRate.com. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's podcast, Bryan covers some of the facts about humidity. He also explains how to keep humidity under control in all climates. Humidity refers to water vapor in the air and is a component of the air. Changes in temperature and pressure affect the density of the air. The air density determines how much moisture air can hold. Relative humidity refers to the ratio of water vapor in the air. An RH value of 100% indicates that the air is saturated with water vapor; it has reached the dew point. At that point, the wet-bulb and dry-bulb temperatures will be the same. We do not want to reach the dew point inside a building. Many people associate high relative humidity with high temperatures, but that association is a misconception. Unless the moisture content is extremely high at high temperatures, the RH will tend to be lower in hotter environments; hotter temperatures can hold more moisture. The moisture content at 90 degrees with 55% RH will be significantly higher than the moisture content at 65 degrees with 55% RH. If the indoor temperature is below the outdoor dew point, we need to make sure we keep outdoor air out. We can do that by using ventilation strategies like bath fans and kitchen exhaust, especially since construction companies have built homes much more tightly over time. However, we want to ensure that we don't draw in low-quality air from the attic. We find that many humidity control strategies overlap with ventilation. Bryan also discusses: Wet-bulb depression Insulating spaces and the effect on humidity Dehumidifiers Attic and crawl space dew points Humidity drivers inside the home Coil temperature, airflow, and dehumidification Off cycle fan delay Sweating and equipment freeze-ups Running continuous fan   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, we talk about the myth that time at a job or in the business equals or deserves pay increases. Many people believe that showing up for a long time justifies a raise. They aren't necessarily progressing in their field, but they think they've spent enough time to warrant a raise. A business relationship is an agreement that you will perform specific tasks for a specified rate. If you don't go above and beyond or progress, then there's no reason for that pay rate to change. Soft skills, cleanliness, and overall professionalism are also important to job efficiency and performance. If you don't improve those, then you may not give your employer a reason to believe that they should give you a pay raise. You are not owed more money because you have simply worked at a place for a long time. If you work for a company that focuses on sales, the company has to make a profit for them to pay their employees more money. So, improving your own profitability as a tech will give you a case for deserving a raise. Investing in yourself can translate to success within the business. You will be a good earner only if you can bring quality work and skills to the table. You can also choose to move to a different business or segment of the industry. Ultimately, you have to invest in yourself and make decisions for yourself. Your value does not depend on how much time you spend with a company or in the industry. As a technician, your value depends on the work you put into the industry.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's podcast episode, Mark Roth from Goodway talks about chiller and cooling tower cleaning best practices and techniques. Goodway makes industrial maintenance equipment for the HVAC industry, especially tube-cleaning equipment. A chiller has water running through the tubes, and debris from the cooling tower can build up in the tubes. When scale or debris buildup occurs, heat exchange becomes much less efficient. Water hardness can also interfere with heat transfer; harder water will lead to more mineral deposits. So, tube cleanliness is important, especially in high-traffic areas. In those areas, cleaning should happen at least once or twice per year. To access the tubes, you have to take the heads off the chiller. Cleaning the tubes is usually easier than taking the heads off the chiller. When cleaning the chiller and cooling tower, the water flows onto the floor and to a drain. So, floor cleanliness is important when wrapping up a job. "Chiller bibs" also exist to catch the water and transport it to the drain with less of a mess. Cleaning machines often have foot-pedals, and people commonly put toolboxes or other heavy objects on foot-pedals, which is a bad practice. People also need to tighten the brushes to their cleaning machines with channel locks; when techs don't tighten those brushes properly, the brushes can fall off, which is not good for the chiller. Cooling towers act as filters, so they collect a lot of debris in the basin. Goodway has a vacuum that collects the debris in the basin without having to drain the entire thing. Mark and Bryan also discuss: Basic chiller and cooling tower anatomy Legionella Using machines for cleaning Enhanced tubes Nylon, brass, and stainless steel brushes Makeup water and filtration strategies Cooling tower media Descaling strategies and products pH balance   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, we address the myth that IAQ is a joke. We also discuss how to think about IAQ correctly in HVAC work. Indoor air quality is NOT a joke. However, it has a bit of a bad reputation in our field due to the overuse of accessories and bells-and-whistles to solve whole-home air quality issues. (Oxidizers, UV lights, etc. can help IAQ issues, but they are not a fix-all.) We don't want completely sterile air, just as we like to have a beneficial microbiome inside our own digestive systems. However, there are also a bunch of things suspended in our air that are really bad for us. Some of those bad things include VOCs, carbon monoxide, and radon. Many of the products we bring into our home, including furniture assembled in underregulated factories overseas, end up off-gassing harmful substances into our air. VOCs have a distinct chemical smell, and proper ventilation helps solve the problem. Media filters are an everyday object that we use to help control IAQ. Using higher-MERV filters help keep the air free of particulates, but you must size them correctly to prevent excessive pressure drop and poor airflow. To control moisture problems, we want to make sure we seal buildings as tightly as possible. We also want to make sure we use designed pathways and effective ventilation strategies. Kitchen and bath exhaust fans should be functional. When we think about bringing in outdoor air, we want that process to be controlled, and we want to make sure we're bringing in high-quality outdoor air. Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are both undesirable in terms of IAQ, but carbon monoxide is potentially deadly. We want to make sure we vent those gases, especially CO.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Chris Stephens from HVACR Videos joins us to talk about his experiences with and perspective on R290 (propane) refrigerant in restaurant refrigeration. Chris sees R290 propane on a daily basis, and his perspective as a tech differs from that of an R290 equipment manufacturer. While the temperature sensitivity contributes to flammability, R290 is also under pressure in a system. Therefore, propane refrigerant systems require a lot of caution. R290 equipment must undergo thorough redesigning to be entirely spark-proof. Hydrocarbon refrigerants also require OEM components; aftermarket components change the design and can cause problems down the line, and technicians WILL be liable for any damages related to aftermarket components. When techs evacuate/recover R290, all evacuation and recovery tools must also be spark-proof; you also need to check to make sure that those tools are certified to work with propane refrigerant, even digital gauges. When using approved service gauges, also be sure to use short hoses. More so than ever, following the manufacturer's guidelines is an invaluable practice. Unlike R-22 and R-410A, you CAN vent R290. However, the location should be well-ventilated. Chris recommends that you take extreme caution when venting refrigerant, such as by using a leak detector to let you know when to stop. Most of all, we need to be aware of our surroundings when we work with highly flammable R290. When we use our senses and are aware of our surroundings, the refrigerant becomes much more predictable. Chris and Bryan also discuss: Buying and sourcing R290 Recommended R290 training resources Piercing valves Basic R290 behavior Flowing nitrogen Evaluating hydrocarbon systems and using a "common-sense" approach Leak detectors to avoid using for R290 systems   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, we discuss the common myth about cleaning flame rods/sensors/rectification devices. Flame sensors or rectification rods are NOT the same as thermocouples or thermopiles. Thermocouples and thermopiles use two dissimilar metals to create a temperature differential. So, we do not clean thermocouples and thermopiles because the heavy abrasives in cleaners can damage and reduce the effectiveness of those devices. However, you don't have to worry about that sort of damage on a flame sensing rod; we can indeed clean those. The flame rod sits in the flame (regardless of ignition type) and allows for a DC current to travel through the ions in the flame to ground. The flame creates a path for that current, which makes a closed circuit. Flame sensing rods are merely pieces of metal that allow current to flow when there is an active flame on a furnace. So, you want to keep your flame rods clean to allow for conduction. You may want to avoid using sandpaper or Emory-type materials to clean the rods because sediment can build up on the flame rod. When the flame ignites, the sandy substance on the rod can turn glassy and impede conduction. However, you can use an appropriate cleaner without damaging the rod. You can also replace the rod if you happen to have one on your truck, but you don't have to replace all dirty rods. Pool heater flame sensors can get exceptionally nasty due to the chemicals they encounter. If a piece of equipment has a flame rod that gets dirty a little too quickly, try to find the cause of the excess grime and take care of it.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this podcast episode, Eric and I discuss his new home and his plans for installing central air the Eric-Mele way. Eric's home doesn't have an attic, crawlspace, or basement. So, designing and installing central A/C will be a challenge, especially since Eric doesn't like high-wall ductless systems. Eric considered using an air handler with exposed ductwork, but he doesn't want the noise issues associated with that design. He also considered using a package system, but it has the same noise concerns as the previous option. In the end, he decided to go with ceiling cassettes. Cassettes have a condensate pump, differentiating them from high-wall ductless systems and making them a bit more expensive. Eric has also collected his latent-sensible capacity data. Moisture removal is critical in his South Florida home, and equipment sizing is an important factor when installing central air. Sizing contributes to dehumidification because of its effect on runtime. However, smaller ductless/VRF units may not have sufficient heat even when they're properly sized. In the future, we expect companies to utilize heat sensors to improve the sensible heat ratio when moisture removal is needed. For filtration, Eric plans on seeing how the fan motors react to pleated filters. Upgrading the filters could help control sensible heat ratio and VOC contamination, but static pressure remains a concern. We also discuss: Ductless unit cleaning Filtration for air handlers with exposed ductwork Lagging vs. drilling Ceiling cassettes and condensate pumps Flex vs. duct board vs. metal ducts Oversizing VRF Two-pipe systems Activated carbon filtration Making flare fittings vs. brazing in factory-made flares   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's short live podcast, Bryan discusses the importance of context in education and the challenge presented by information. When we learn, we do ourselves a disservice by searching for information alone. Just-in-time education allows us to "search instead of research," and it works in a limited and inefficient way. Instead, we'd be much more effective if we knew how to learn efficiently. To learn efficiently, we need to bring context to the learning process. Instead of focusing on raw facts or abstract information, we need to know about the surrounding information. It's also beneficial to use similes and metaphors to grasp how something works. In other words, we need to connect new information to past experiences. Therefore, the learning process that most of us accept seems rather backward. Instead of feeding people answers immediately, we can supply them with experiences that can help them draw similarities between those experiences and demonstrations and the theoretical elements. The goal of context in education is to equip us to understand situations and solve problems repeatedly. As humans, we are likely to forget information that is fed to us directly and not connected to our experiences. Ideally, a learning process would begin with observation. We would show students how to do something or how something works. Then, we explain the theory behind why that thing works. Finally, the student or apprentice would be given the space to apply the principles themselves and work with their own hands. We also answer questions and respond to comments about: The value of schooling MeasureQuick compatibility Self-driven curiosity Companies working with educators   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this episode, Jordan Cummings comes on the podcast to review application-based system selection considerations for VRF/VRV systems. A VRF/VRV system works a bit like a hydronics system, but it provides hot or cold air to various zones in a space, not water. The key to having a reliable and long-lasting VRF system is a good installation. Proper maintenance practices, including pulling deep vacuums for dehydration, will also improve the performance and life of a VRF system. When you choose a system to install, you have to determine if you want a heat pump or heat recovery system. Occupant type will play a major role in that equipment selection. Budget is also a variable, but it is typically less of a concern than occupant type and building purpose. Some VRF/VRV systems that have been primarily designed for cooling may need to provide heating in low-ambient conditions. In many cases, these will close fresh-air dampers and recirculate discharge gas. Some units may even have auxiliary heat or be backed up by other heating equipment. Defrost is also something you'll need to consider in low-ambient applications. Sizing is another important part of VRF/VRV selection and design. Consider nominal capacity but don't accept it as a hard and fast value. Keep your design conditions in mind; which temperatures and humidity percentages are you trying to maintain? What is the outdoor air temperature? Also, think about the piping total equivalent length and the estimated total distance between the outdoor unit and the farthest indoor unit. Jordan and Bryan also discuss: Buildings with cooling towers and boilers SEER vs. IER Aurora VRV equipment and technology Connection ratio Air handler unit and branch box selection Control boxes and accessory selection Discharge air control Condensate control Maintenance concerns for VRF/VRV systems Indoor unit turn-down   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's short podcast episode, we talk about specific gravity, also known as relative density. We explain why it matters to technicians. When we talk about specific gravity, we're actually talking about density. We're actually using that value to assess how a vapor or liquid's density compares to air or water, respectively. Regardless, we are working with the pressure conditions of 14.7 PSIA, or atmospheric pressure. In the case of liquids, we're relating them to water is at its densest, which is 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit. You may have noticed that ice cubes float in water. That's because water becomes less dense as it gets colder than 39.2 degrees and when it freezes. Ice is less dense and more buoyant than water. So, specific gravity requires a reference. Because it requires a reference, it is also a relative measurement, so "relative density" is another appropriate term for specific gravity. Regardless of units, we are still comparing one thing to a constant in the form of a ratio. (For example, a liquid with a specific gravity of 0.85 is equal to 85% of the density of water at 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit.) The relative density also explains why some liquids sink and others float when mixed together. Gases can also rise or sink based on how much lighter or heavier that gas is when compared to air. If the specific gravity of a vapor is less than one, it will rise to the ceiling. Natural gas is an example of that. If the specific gravity of a gas is greater than one, it will sink. LP is heavier than air and will sink. Therefore, LP is a bit more dangerous than natural gas because of how it takes up space due to its interaction with the air.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this episode, we speak with Embraco about R290 (Propane) refrigerant, hydrocarbons, and what you need to know about them. Embraco is primarily focused on compressors and is involved in the residential and light commercial market. The greater demand for natural refrigerants or hydrocarbons has made R290 popular. Hydrocarbons have hydrogen and carbon chains; although these refrigerants are very similar to grill propane, they are much drier and purer. R170 is another hydrocarbon for very low-temperature refrigeration. In some European countries, R290 and CO2 are becoming much more prevalent than synthetic solutions. China has invested a lot in hydrocarbon technology, and the United States has shown interest in using hydrocarbons for auto coolers and natural refrigerants for grocery refrigeration. R290 is flammable, but most techs' aversion to working on those systems likely stems from a fear of the unknown. These systems have several safety controls that prevent gas leakage from getting in contact with sparks. So, these systems rarely ever catch fire. Embraco also has a commitment to putting safety first when they design compressors. You can also vent R290 to the environment, which you can't do with many other refrigerants. Unlike other refrigerants, R290 has a very low global warming potential. R290 and CO2 are not perfect, but they will be the future as we move away from ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases. R290 is also making its way into the residential sector. You can find it in smaller applications, such as mini-fridges and even some other domestic refrigerators. We also discuss: Overloads and why systems aren't as flammable as they seem Terminal venting Embraco's design goals and philosophy Contamination and evacuation   Links: http://refrigerationclub.com/ http://naturalrefrigerants.info/ http://embraco.com/Default.aspx?tabid=40 Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

We talk about measuring tricky amperage on a blower and condensing fan motor. We also cover why you may be measuring inaccurately, resulting in a misdiagnosis. When measuring amperage on a PSC blower motor, you may have noticed that amperage on the common is higher when the panel is off. Conversely, on ECM or X13 motors, the amperage is generally lower with the panel off. When measuring amperage, we recommend using a Bluetooth ammeter to take readings without letting the panels interfere with your measurements. Anytime the amperage is low, the more difficulty the ammeter will have in measuring an accurate value. In cases where you're dealing with a very low amperage, you will need a higher-resolution ammeter for accurate measurements. One old-school way that you can increase your resolution is by using the 10-wrap method and putting that in series. Then, you take the amperage measurement and divide it by 10. We don't recommend doing the under-load test on a blower; a bench test is much safer. However, the compressor and condenser fan motor capacitance can be measured under load. Outdoor tests can be a bit challenging because there is a greater possibility for interference. Current drawn outside of the clamps can indeed affect the reading, and several other nearby conductors draw current inside condensing units. Sometimes, technicians replace perfectly fine run capacitors because the amperage seemed too high on an under-load test. To avoid interference, perform a bench test and check the actual microfarads. Tricky amperage interference also leads techs to condemn condenser fan motors when they really just picked up amperage outside the clamp. So, keep in mind that your meter could be running high or picking up interference. Any possible fail parts should undergo further testing to confirm that there's something wrong.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this service manual talk-through episode, Eric Mele helps us discuss the Heatcraft Beacon 2 refrigeration system. We talk about what it can do and what it entails. The Heatcraft Beacon 2 is a refrigeration system with more electronic controls than electromechanical. However, it is quite user-friendly, and it allows you to see what the system is doing at almost all times. The monitor doesn't allow you to adjust anything in the system, but it lets you see valve position, superheat, time until defrost, and more as the system is operating. The Beacon 2 has a suction pressure transducer that maintains superheat. You can dial in the superheat on the control, and the system should control it almost exactly as long as all the components are working properly. You can also manipulate the wiring to run multiple evaporators off of one condenser. (There are master and slave evaporators, and you must differentiate them when configuring the controls.) When it comes to parameters, you have to set your defrost type to air or electric. In general, you use electric defrost for freezers. You must also set your refrigerant type accordingly. Then, you set your box temperature. Medium-temperature applications tend to be around 35 degrees, and many low-temperature applications tend to be around -10 degrees. You also have control over defrost settings and temperature units (Fahrenheit or Celsius). You can also find frequent parameters on the evaporator panel for more information. Most errors will be sensor errors. Many sensor issues are easy to test because of the user-friendly monitors. You can compare your reference sensor to the data to check the accuracy of what's being reported to the board. Eric and Bryan also discuss: Forcing pump-down and defrost Schematics and wiring practices/applications Headmaster valves Setting pressure controls Defrost frequency and failsafe   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

This short podcast episode covers the why and the how of low ambient cooling and refrigeration. Low ambient cooling refers to operating A/C equipment during low outdoor ambient conditions. Typically, the cap of operation is around 55 or 60 degrees. However, some commercial facilities need cooling when the outdoor temperature is cold. For example, those facilities may have to cool electronics or large volumes of people. In buildings that don't have economizers, running the A/C in cold ambient conditions may be the only option. The same applies to restaurants, which always need to run freezers and coolers. When the outdoor ambient temperature drops, the condenser rejects more heat to the outdoors. Head pressure drops, and there may be an insufficient pressure drop across the metering device. We also can't run A/C evaporator coils below 32 degrees, as there is no defrost mechanism in straight-cool A/C systems. So, the strategy to get around those issues is to focus on raising the head pressure by modulating the condenser fan motor. A fan cycling control can turn the condenser fan on and off based on pressure. So, we try to maintain a fixed pressure in the condenser by allowing that control to shut off the fan when the pressure drops too much. However, fan cycling can be a bit jarring for the system. Motor master controls help modulate the motor by decreasing voltage to the motor. However, that fluctuating voltage isn't necessarily good for the motor. In those cases, you must have a ball-bearing motor. Unlike the motor master, a refrigeration headmaster is a valve that allows discharge gas to enter the drop leg. Variable frequency drives can work with a three-phase motor to vary the speed of the motor. When the speed can vary easily, you can manipulate the pressure.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In today's podcast, I talk to John Oaks about his experience as a VRF tech in the field, including branch boxes and two-pipe vs. three-pipe technology. John primarily works on the troubleshooting and service side rather than the installation and programming side of the field. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, also called VRV systems when manufactured by Daikin, are commercial HVAC systems. VRF systems work best in commercial buildings with some degree of fragmentation, like offices and medical facilities. These systems are similar to multi-zone ductless systems, but they operate on a much larger scale. VRF systems have a branch box, which acts to direct traffic between the various zones of a building and parts of the system; the branch box allows the unit to heat and cool simultaneously. A 24v signal drives most of the controls. These controls are "daisy-chained," as VRF systems are very interconnected, and a defrost signal can have up to about 50 destinations to various components. The entire VRF installation process requires careful attention to detail, not just on the programming side. When it comes to common issues with VRF systems, the refrigerant charge is one of the most critical problem areas. These systems mask issues with the charge, so it is difficult to find out if a system is undercharged or overcharged. In addition, you can't weigh out the charge in the same way that you would in a residential system. John and Bryan also discuss: Metering device placement Industry improvements and upgrades Inverter boards Line set length and charge issues Flares, brazing, and ZoomLock Condensate removal and drainage strategies Diversity of zones and efficiency Two-pipe vs. three-pipe configurations Cooling mode, heating mode, and mixed conditions   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

This is a voice-over audio presentation of the article of the same title on the HVACRschool.com website ("The Trade Skills Gap: A Manifesto). The manifesto discusses the value of technicians and the trades in modern society. It also covers the plague of snobbery that we are all too familiar with in the world. You can read "The Trade Skills Gap: A Manifesto" HERE.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Jason Obrzut comes on the podcast and talks us through his furnace sequence of operation training: "Take It Slow, It's Gonna Blow!" There are 6 main steps in Jason's furnace sequence of operation training. The phrase, "Take It Slow, It's Gonna Blow!" should help you remember the sequence (Thermostat, Inducer motor, Safety switch, Igniter, Gas valve, Blower motor). The first component in the furnace sequence of operation is the thermostat, which initiates the call for heat. So, the thermostat has to send the signal to the circuit board. After the board receives that signal, it sends 120v out of the board to the inducer motor. Next, the inducer pulls the gas combustion air into the heat exchanger. That air will then be deposited into the exhaust. The inducer is what aids the venting action and is a critical part of a furnace. The safety switch is a general term for a negative pressure switch with a hose connected to the inducer housing or heat exchangers. Negative pressure from the inducer motor will close that switch. When that switch closes, 24v goes back into the board. Then, the board sends a signal to the igniter. Now, you will finally begin to see heat delays. Silicon carbide and silicon nitride are common igniter materials nowadays, but they are fragile. Once the igniter has worked long enough, the gas valve opens. We get 24v from the board to the gas valve, which brings on the gas flow and starts a timer. When the timer expires, the blower motor will come on. This component is the LAST one to come on. Jason and Bryan also discuss: Pressures on the flue Cracked heat exchangers Safeties not closing Hot-surface vs. intermittent-spark vs. direct-spark ignition Flame sensors and proving flame DIP switches   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, we talk through stack effect. We explain what it is and what sorts of comfort issues it can cause in a home. Most of us understand that hot air rises even though heat itself doesn't rise. The stack effect is precisely a version of that piece of common knowledge; hotter air is less dense than cooler air, so it floats above the cooler air. In hotter air, the molecules move a lot faster than they do in cooler air, so they can start to separate from each other, which reduces the overall air density. For the most part, we don't work pressurize air in HVAC work (not refrigerant), but we do change the temperature. The temperature changes cause the difference in air densities to emerge. If we're dealing with a furnace system in a two-story house or a home with high ceilings, we see that stack effect in action. When that hotter air rises and cooler air sinks, the hotter air makes way for a vacuum that draws colder air into the building. While that hot air rises, the colder air comes in under doors and through low cracks. Although the air that's coming out of the appliance is warm, it can't do much to heat the space before rising. The reverse stack effect can also happen. When you have poorly sealed can lights or cracks in the ceiling, the colder, denser air will sink and create negative pressure near the highest point of the room. When we have that negative pressure, hot air can get pulled in from the attic or other undesirable locations. In Florida, we have to worry quite a bit about the reverse stack effect, whereas the stack effect is more of a concern for colder climates.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Jim Bergmann gives us a year-end review of all that is happening at MeasureQuick and his predictions for the future of app-based diagnosis. He also covers what's been going on with Redfish, BluFlame, BluVac, Supco, Testo, and Fieldpiece. Diagnostic tools only work if the buyers understand how to use them. When apps can assist the tool buyers and users with diagnosis, the tool manufacturers can focus more on improving the technology; they can leave the software and education to mobile applications. Implementing gas appliance diagnostic education has been a challenge for Jim and other app developers. However, they are attempting to take app-based gas appliance diagnosis to the next level. The goal of diagnostic apps is to educate technicians about tools and readings and to make diagnoses more comprehensive. From the start, one of MeasureQuick's major focuses has been accessibility and ease of use. A diagnostic app that gives technicians a seamless way to take readings, store data, and learn about their measurements should be easy to use, so Jim has put a lot of work into making a user-friendly app. So, the next step for MeasureQuick in terms of accessibility will likely be to allow users to share data for remote viewing. MeasureQuick has incorporated education on the basic refrigerant circuit, electrical components, gas appliances, and vacuum within the app. Soon, Jim would like MeasureQuick to expand into the refrigeration and geothermal sides of the HVAC/R world; he'd also like to implement project notes. Jim and Bryan also discuss: Monetizing diagnostic apps Tying tools into diagnostic software Wireless range and BlueTooth considerations Working with programmers How much might I invest in an app-based diagnosis app? Third-party quality control Future-proofing Project or process-based functions Integration Electronic accessibility and pricing   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

What is the difference between accuracy, precision, and resolution? In today's short podcast, Jim Bergmann explains the differences and why they matter. People commonly confuse accuracy and precision. Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the correct value, but precision refers to the consistency of values. For example, you can get several infrared thermometers to measure the difference between circuit breakers, and the thermometer readings all come out close to the same value. They aren't necessarily accurate, but they are precise. In cases where we use a voltmeter to measure for the presence of voltage, we don't need a high degree of accuracy. However, when we want to measure exact voltage values, we want to make sure our tools are accurate. Sometimes, voltage that is too low can cause issues with the circuit boards. Resolution refers to the smallest possible amount of change you can detect. For example, one voltmeter may measure to the nearest whole volt, and another may measure to the nearest tenth of a volt. The resolution is higher on the latter voltmeter, as it detects a smaller change than the first voltmeter. Some tools measure with a high resolution, but the increased resolution may compromise the accuracy. For example, if a manometer reads into the Pascals range, it may only have a tolerance of +/- 5 Pascals, which leaves room for inaccuracy. However, again, accuracy is not always the most important value. Sometimes, resolution and precision are more important than accuracy. After all, in the words of Jim Bergmann, it's pretty difficult to measure feet with your car odometer. One common example where precision and resolution are more important than accuracy is when techs try to measure microns with analog gauges. The accuracy means nothing when the precision and resolution are poor.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

John guides us through all aspects of ventilation and system design. He gives us a review of point ventilation, ASHRAE 62.2, whole-home strategies, and much more. Nowadays, construction protocols instruct builders to make houses tighter than the builders of the past. The goal of building tighter homes is to give us more control over the temperature, quality, and energy impact of the outside air we bring into our homes. Common sources of ventilation are local exhaust systems, including bath fans and kitchens. However, in tighter constructions, there is a greater need for whole-home strategies to bring in outside air and dilute indoor-generated pollutants. Some of those pollutants include VOCs, odors, and moisture. We must think about how to introduce that outside air into the home and how that outdoor air will impact heat loads, moisture levels, and air quality inside the home. When we select equipment for airflow, we need to think about constant vs. intermittent flow. In humid climates, you also need to take extra steps to prevent moist outdoor air from leading to excess condensation in the home. Ventilation equipment either delivers outdoor air to each room or mixes that outdoor air with the return air. Try to ensure that the space temperature doesn't drop below the dew point, which can be a challenge in humid climates. Ventilating dehumidification is a promising solution for HVAC system replacements and new constructions in humid climates. In cold, tight homes, ventilating dehumidification can keep a home dry enough to keep occupants comfortable in the winter. John and Bryan also discuss: Why do people want energy efficiency? "Passive house" and airtightness standards Mixing air and filtration Carbon dioxide (CO2) ERVs vs. HRVs for balanced ventilation Fan cycler systems Duct installation quality Dedicated make-up air Fireplaces and gas appliances under negative pressure   Learn more about Think Little, John's company, at think-little.com/. Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Bill and Bryan discuss gas and combustion tools. These tools include manometers, combustible gas detectors, personal CO detectors, draft gauges, and combustion analyzers. Manometers measure gas pressure, and they require calibration but are usually quite accurate. Before using a manometer as a diagnostic tool effectively, you must understand your targets and resolution. Some digital manometers come with BlueTooth technology, so you can log, convert, and store your data on mobile devices. Gas leak detectors are relatively inexpensive tools. These should NOT be confused with combustion analyzers, which are different tools altogether. You usually cannot calibrate these tools. When using a gas leak detector, the leak detection process on gas pipes is similar to the electronic leak detection process on straight-cool A/C units. Draft gauges measure very fine pressure differentials in the combustion air zone. These may use flappers or vanes to give you data about the direction and amount of draft. Most importantly, you want to ensure that you have no backdraft. These tools take very fine measurements, so they have high resolution. Because of their high resolution, they require frequent calibration to stay accurate. Personal (or ambient) CO monitors are also important gas and combustion tools. Carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and colorless, and it can be deadly. To avoid CO poisoning, use one of these monitors to remain aware of the CO content in your space. Combustion analysis has evolved a lot over the years. Today, we perform combustion analysis with a single tool. When combustion occurs, a chemical reaction occurs. Combustion analyzers determine what happens post-combustion by taking temperature and oxygen readings. However, they also account for the presence of CO, which indicates incomplete combustion. Bill and Bryan also discuss: Analog and Magnehelic manometers BPI-1200 Precision CO monitor upkeep/disposal Perfect combustion AHRI-1260 Nitric oxide filters Choosing tools   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan speed-talks through all the basics of heat pumps and how they function. Heat pumps are not physical pumps or components on an A/C system. A heat pump is an HVAC unit that is also capable of heating a home by reversing the refrigeration cycle. When that reversal happens, the traditional indoor "evaporator" coil acts as a condenser that rejects heat in the home. As such, the traditional outdoor "condenser" acts as an evaporator that absorbs heat from the outdoors so long as the refrigerant is colder than the outside. Due to how they function, heat pumps are more common in warmer climates. The heat pump's reversal happens on the reversing valve, which diverts refrigerant right before the compressor. A solenoid shifts the valve when you enter heat mode from cool mode (or vice versa), and that's how refrigerant gets diverted. These just slide back and forth, and they are pretty reliable; they don't typically malfunction. Before a reversing valve can work, the system must be ON; the valve cannot shift if the unit is OFF. Heat pumps typically have two metering devices, one by the indoor unit (cool mode) and one by the outdoor unit (heat mode). A check valve controls the flow of refrigerant to the correct metering device. Heat pump systems may also often have suction accumulators and crankcase heaters to help prevent oil loss and flooded starts in the compressor. The defrost controls for heat pumps typically have a timer and defrost sensors. We also discuss: Issues with heat mode TXVs Checking the charge on a heat pump Defrost sensor types and operation Auxiliary heat Economic balance point   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

Jason from ESCO and Cengage comes on to talk about the varying landscape of EPA 608 regulations with what you need to know for now (circa 2018). The EPA has proposed to roll back some regulations regarding HFC refrigerants, including leak rate and leak repair mandates. There are also questions about the regulation of refrigerants that do NOT have ozone-depleting substances, not just HFCs. This choice reinterprets language within the guidelines put forth in 2016 and the Clean Air Act. However, this choice completely disregards global warming potential and limits regulations of refrigerants with global warming potential but no ozone-depleting potential. EPA 608 still prevents the venting of non-natural refrigerants, but the proposed changes aim to clarify the language in those regulations. EPA 608 Subpart F can potentially be rescinded entirely. That action could muddy the language as to what constitutes venting. HVAC businesses can also suffer, as technician certification may no longer be a requirement for purchasing refrigerants. (Not to mention, homeowners can ignorantly engage in harmful practices, like cross-contaminating refrigerants and venting. Substance abuse is also much more accessible if non-HVAC techs purchase refrigerant to huff it.) The USA is actually well behind other industrialized countries when it comes to refrigerant usage. We're one of the only industrialized countries that have yet to really move forward from HFCs. So, rolling back HFC regulations may be a step back for environmental initiatives, refrigerant innovation, and even the refrigerant reclamation job market in the USA. Jason and Bryan also discuss: EPA exam changes Individual state regulations and certifications Who benefits from these changes? Comparisons to other toxic chemicals Air quality, pollution, and resource exploitation Refrigerant recovery and mixing How will this change affect the job market? How will this change affect education and writing?   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan shares his experience as an entrepreneur and his tips for anyone who wants to run and grow a successful business. When growing a business, the best thing you can do is listen to others who have started a business. It's especially useful to listen to those who have already "made it" in the business world. Growing a business requires you to stay focused. While you may have to work in your business, you also want to make time to work on the strategic parts of your business. Make goals, hire good people, and make sure your business has all the right people and tools to help it grow. Know your hirees' motives, and it's also important that the people in your personal life support you. Your business will also grow most effectively if you can keep your emotions under control. On a financial level, you need to have a good grasp of your personal finances before tackling business finances. Make wise decisions, and don't make excuses to spend money on things your business doesn't actually need. One of our main business tips is that it's best to avoid dumping your money into things you don't understand. Marketing is something that a lot of HVAC businesspeople don't understand and may not actually need. So, keep your investments limited to things you understand early on. Networking is a critical element of business. Your business needs to develop relationships with people you can trust. Trust-based relationships help foster an appreciation between your customers and your business. Appreciation for employees is another element of this. When everyone is aware of the value of your relationships, your business can grow with the right people within the company and the right people paying for your services.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.

In our first ever ask-me-anything (AMA) podcast, we talk about the trade as a whole and answer random questions about Kalos and myself. Some people ask me if I'd encourage my children to get into HVAC/R. In my opinion, the trade offers plenty of good opportunities and room for growth. So, I will definitely encourage my children to get into the trades, but I will not pressure them into it. I think more of us should encourage our children to consider a career in the trades and understand the benefits of those careers. I'd even say that I'd choose this career path again if I were allowed to restart my life and take a new career path. I'm optimistic about the future of the trade. The pay and opportunities are better than they've ever been before, and we have chances to attract young people to the trade. This trade is one of impact, and impact is becoming increasingly important to young people. One of the main issues we need to address in our trade is unprofessionalism. From bad practices to blatant prejudice, we need to be professional, proud of the work we do, and fair to everyone. We also discuss: Which piece of equipment I identify with Sleep schedules for people who work on many things at once Providing tools and tool stipends HVAC company finances and profit Tech traits across trades The separation between commercial and residential HVAC Unprofessionalism in the trade Taking time to read and do research Time management and discipline Mechanical diagnosticians vs. sales techs What inspired me to get into HVAC Innovation, marketing, and corporate culture among manufacturers Onboarding and training green techs Thanks to everyone who asked questions in this AMA.   Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast HERE, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe HERE.