Tech Tips

Anytime we have a compressor failure, we can’t just pull out the bad compressor and drop a new one in. We have to put our detective hats on and find the culprit so that it doesn’t happen again. In many cases, acid is a prime suspect. Whenever there’s acid in the system, the next compressor […]

You have seen the C terminal on a dual run capacitor before. You have also seen the C terminal on a compressor. It stands to reason that they would both connect together, right? They don't connect, and they aren't even related, at least not in the way you think. In both cases, the C denotes […]

This tech tip was written by Tim De Stasio. He originally published it on his website, which you can visit HERE. Thanks, Tim! In March of 2024, I set out to better understand the cost of ownership and return on investment for two dehumidification strategies: a dedicated dehumidifier versus using electric reheat dehumidification from my […]

Educators love lockout relays, and we also love pretending you will still see them out in the field all the time. Sometimes, I have to look myself in the mirror in the morning and sadly repeat, “Lockout relays are dead.” I have to say it several times before the reality sinks in. Before I get […]

When we think of HVAC system components, the big four come to mind: evaporator, compressor, condenser, and metering device. However, there are several accessories that keep the HVAC system working as intended, and the filter-drier is one we cannot ignore. Filter-driers protect HVAC/R systems by removing moisture, acids, and debris from refrigerant. In typical residential […]

Ever since Nikola Tesla invented the modern induction motor, we have been struggling with varying the speed of motors efficiently and reliably. The trouble in the HVAC industry is that there are several different types of technologies in play, and they can easily get confused. ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor) In residential and light commercial HVAC, […]

Have you ever noticed that the more you're required to speed up to get all your work done in a day, the more the cleanliness of your work vehicle suffers? Some techs won't clean their vans, no matter how slow or busy the schedule gets, but most of us prefer a clean and organized vehicle. […]

  The most common—and often most frustrating—questions that trainers and senior techs get asked sound something like this: “What should my ______ be?” or “My _____ is at ______. Does that sound right?” Usually, when the conversation is over, both the senior and junior techs walk away feeling frustrated because the junior tech just wanted […]

I used to call PTCR devices a "Soft Start". I was wrong.