Oil Best Practices for HFC and HFO-based Systems
This tech tip was written by Don Gillis with Chemours. Thanks, Don! The shift to R-410A from R-22 brought some pretty big changes to the industry, including the shift to polyolester (POE) oil. We had been using mineral oil for CFC refrigerants like R-12 and HCFCs like R-22, so we had to update some of […]
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Refrigerant Recovery Practices
Recovery is the removal of refrigerant from a system. From there, you can either store it and send it in for recycling or reintroduce it back into the same system. Here are some top tips: Make sure your tank is empty and evacuated to 300 microns if you plan to return the refrigerant to the […]
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Common Causes of Compressor Failure
This article was written by Don Gillis, the technical training manager at Chemours. Thanks, Don! Refrigerant compressors are essential components of air conditioning and refrigeration systems, as we all know. They work by compressing refrigerant vapor, which then flows through the system and changes state as pressure and temperature conditions rise and fall. Unfortunately, these […]
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Improving Humidity Control on the Cheap
This tech tip was submitted by Steve Rogers, the current president of The Energy Conservatory (TEC). Steve has been on the podcast several times in the past and is a valued contributor to HVAC School. Thanks, Steve! As summer approaches, HVAC technicians all over the US are preparing for those difficult conversations with occupants about […]
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What Changes Will You Soon See With the Shift to A2L Refrigerants?
This article was written by Don Gillis, the current Technical Training Manager at Chemours. Don was also involved in a popular symposium session about A2L refrigerants with Jason Obrzut and Dr. Chuck Allgood, which you can now watch for free on our YouTube channel HERE. Thanks, Don! We all know that the change to A2L […]
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Build a Better Internal Training Program
This tech tip is based on a recent podcast with Eugene Silberstein from ESCO Group. Even though we cover a lot of similar ground, this tech tip is unique and comes with several links that could help anyone who wants to start or improve an internal training program. If you haven't yet listened to “How […]
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Homeowner’s Guide to Sizing an AC System (and who is responsible when you’re uncomfortable)
This tech tip was a collaborative effort between Matt Bruner, Adam Mufich, Ed Janowiak, and Genry Garcia. Thank you to everybody who gave their input! The next time you come across a homeowner who wants a bigger HVAC system, or you simply want to set expectations for a customer, share this tech tip with them. […]
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Understanding “P” Traps in Refrigerant Lines
This article was written by Don Gillis with Chemours. Thanks, Don! There are 3 main reasons we use “P” or “U” traps: Assisting in oil return to the compressor Preventing oil accumulation in the evaporator  Preventing liquid refrigerant or oil from entering the compressor while operating or during the off cycle Assisting in oil return […]
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Gas Furnaces – What a Tech Needs to Know
It’s that time of year again—the furnace service calls are peaking. It’s a good idea to crack open Jason Obrzut’s book, Gas Heating: Furnaces, Boilers, Controls, Components, and listen to the many public podcasts and presentations by experts like Jim Bergmann. At HVAC School, we’re fortunate to have had some of the industry’s greatest minds […]
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