So many techs are OBSESSED with how to set the charge rather than understanding all of the readings, specs, and system conditions that go into optimum system performance. Before “setting the charge,” I suggest (nay, I REQUIRE) that you do a full visual inspection of the system, have an understanding of the initial factory charge […]

We just wrote about rejecting heat to the atmosphere via radiant cooling. That’s one example of cooling without refrigerants, but there are quite a few others out there. In this article, we’ll look at some other cooling methods that don’t use refrigerants. Vortex tubes Vortex tubes swirl gas in a chamber, separating it into hot […]

I watched an instructional video the other day where the guy kept palming his gauge manifold and CRANKING down on the valves when he closed them. I've seen techs use channel locks—and even vise grips—to tighten down their gauges “just in case” when they have a hard time finding a leak or a vacuum that […]