So many techs are OBSESSED with how to set a 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 […]

The HVAC industry uses all sorts of fancy words to classify refrigerant. As such, there are all sorts of complicated refrigerant acronyms: HFC, HCFC, CFC. Let's also not forget the mythical zeotropic, azeotropic, and near-azeotropic descriptors. Let's simplify those. (Though if you want to go back to the basics first, check out this article on […]

I was about 13 years old the first time I bent EMT with my uncle. We were doing a renovation at a church; watching him bend EMT and then getting to do it MYSELF was a truly religious experience. There are a few things in the trade where workmanship really comes into play, such as […]