How Do You Ramp Up Your Team to Effectively Service and Support CO2 Applications?

In this informative episode, Bryan Orr speaks with Andre Patenaude from Copeland about CO2 refrigeration systems. They dive deep into the unique characteristics and challenges of working with CO2 as a refrigerant, providing valuable insights for HVAC and refrigeration professionals looking to expand their knowledge in this growing field.

Andre explains the reasons behind the increasing adoption of CO2 systems, including regulatory pressures and environmental benefits. He details the peculiarities of CO2 refrigerant, such as its high triple point and lower critical point, which create unique operating conditions not seen in traditional refrigerants. The conversation covers the concept of transcritical operation and how it affects system design and efficiency.

The discussion then shifts to the infrastructure of CO2 systems, focusing on the transcritical booster architecture commonly used in supermarket applications. Andre breaks down the components and operation of these systems, highlighting key differences from traditional setups. He also touches on the latest innovations in compressor technology from Copeland, including new designs specifically engineered for CO2's high-pressure applications.

Key topics covered in the podcast include:

Reasons for adopting CO2 refrigeration systems
Unique properties of CO2 as a refrigerant, including triple point and critical point
Explanation of transcritical operation and its impact on system design
Overview of transcritical booster system architecture
Pressure zones and safety considerations in CO2 systems
Innovations in compressor technology for CO2 applications
High ambient mitigation strategies for improved efficiency
Resources for contractors and technicians to learn about CO2 systems
Upcoming developments in CO2 refrigeration technology
Opportunities for contractors in the growing CO2 refrigeration market

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#co2 #co2 refrigeration #commercial refrigeration #natural refrigerants #refrigeration #Transcritical

Author:

Bryan Orr

Company: HVAC School

Position: Founder

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HVAC School – For Techs, By Techs

Real training for HVAC ( Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) Technicians. Including recorded tech training, interviews, diagnostics and general conversations about the trade.

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan interviews Zach from Southeast Clean Air Solutions about the intricacies of professional duct cleaning. Zach specializes in addressing duct cleaning challenges specific to the Southeastern climate, with a particular focus on fiberglass-lined ducts. The conversation delves into the complexities of cleaning different types of duct systems, highlighting the significant variations in time, technique, and approach depending on the duct materials and home configuration.

The discussion reveals that duct cleaning is far more nuanced than many homeowners realize. A typical residential duct cleaning can take between six to eight hours, with metal ductwork being significantly faster to clean than flexible ducts or fiberglass-lined systems. Zach emphasizes the importance of careful cleaning techniques, especially with delicate flex ducts that can easily be punctured or damaged during the cleaning process. He recommends a two-person approach, with one team member working inside the home and another in the attic or crawl space to ensure thorough and safe cleaning.

Beyond the cleaning process, the podcast explores critical maintenance strategies for maintaining clean and efficient HVAC systems. Zach and Bryan discuss the importance of proper filtration, home maintenance, and understanding when duct cleaning is truly necessary. They challenge the common misconception of a fixed cleaning schedule, instead advocating for system assessment based on specific conditions like household dust, humidity, and the health needs of home occupants.

Key Topics Covered:

Duct cleaning techniques for different duct materials (metal, flexible, fiberglass-lined)
Time requirements for professional duct cleaning
Challenges of cleaning ducts in various home configurations
Importance of proper filtration and maintenance
Factors determining duct cleaning frequency
Risks associated with poorly maintained duct systems
Two-person approach to thorough and safe duct cleaning
Specialized considerations for homes in humid climates
Post-cleaning sealant application for fiberglass-lined ducts

Learn more about NADCA and find certified duct cleaning contractors at https://nadca.com/.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.