The suction line accumulator is designed to keep liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor while still allowing for oil return. The trouble is that if the oil return port/screen clogs, the accumulator can fill with oil and actually cause the compressor to fail. In addition to that, it can hold contaminated oil in a burnout. […]

Let's take a walk through the startup and commissioning procedure of a conventional or “single” refrigeration condensing unit. We’re going to start with a unit that is fully piped in and has been pressurized for leak and strength testing. For brevity, we are going to assume a basic familiarity with industry standards, company and customer […]

Over the last 30 years, there has been a big move away from conventionally framed roof structures towards engineered structures— specifically engineered trusses and load-bearing engineered beams like micro laminated and even steel. I have been in so many attics where the engineered roofing or other load-bearing structures have been cut to accommodate equipment, wires, […]