When testing a run capacitor, many techs pull the leads off and use the capacitance setting on their meter to test the capacitor. On a system that is not running, there isn't anything wrong with this test. However, when you are CONSTANTLY checking capacitors as a matter of regular testing and maintenance, that extra step […]

This article is not a full lesson on making a flare, but it will give you some best practices to make a flare that doesn't leak. First off, we need to clarify that very few unitary manufacturers use flares anymore. You will most often find flares on ductless and VRF/VRV systems and in refrigeration. A […]

Go to your truck, pick up a contactor, and look at it closely. You may find some interesting ratings you never noticed—things like terminal ambient temperature ratings and torque specs. One reading you may overlook is the RES AMPACITY of the contactor or relay. The RES rating is the RESISTIVE LOAD AMPACITY (amperage capacity) or rating. […]