One of the most common parts to fail on a single-phase HVAC system is the run capacitor, so much so that we sometimes refer to junior techs as “capacitor changers.” While capacitors may be easy to diagnose and replace, here are some things many techs may not know: Capacitors Don't “Boost” the Voltage  A capacitor […]

Basic Compressor Functions The compressor's job is to circulate refrigerant through the system by means of vapor compression, similar to the way your heart moves blood through your circulatory system. Refrigerant circulation is measured in lbs/min or lbs/hour; this is called mass flow rate—the mass flow rate changes depending on the density of the refrigerant […]

Condensate overflow prevention devices or float switches, as they are often called, are such simple devices that you wouldn't think there would be much room for controversy. In my experience, there are few areas of the trade where technician and installer preferences and opinions vary greatly. Let's start with some float switch basics. Float (condensate) […]