Tech Tips

Proper sizing and orientation of grilles, registers, and diffusers may seem like such a simple thing, but it's an area where confusion and mistakes are commonly made. First, let's define some terms. Return A return draws air into a return duct system with negative pressure compared to the space, usually via a fixed “grille” (also […]

There has been much written and many jokes made about the misdiagnosis of TXV (thermostatic expansion valves), and rightly so. This article will cut straight to the point to help those of you who may still need a bit of clarification, and hopefully, we will save the lives of a few TXVs and the pocketbooks […]

Disconnects walk the fine line of being HVAC or electrical, but the HVAC technician is allowed to repair and replace disconnects in most places. Even if you work at a place where it isn't allowed, finding problems is a diagnostic skill you will want to have. As always, work safely with proper safety gear and […]

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 […]

Trying to wrap your head around HVAC can feel like a constant firehose of new info, right? Whether you're in class or on the job, there's just so much to soak up. And when you finally think you've got one thing down, BAM, here comes another concept. For me, remembering everything can be a real […]

Anytime we have a compressor failure, we can’t just pull out the bad compressor and drop a new one in. We have to put our detective hats on and find the culprit so that it doesn’t happen again. In many cases, acid is a prime suspect. Whenever there’s acid in the system, the next compressor […]

You have seen the C terminal on a dual run capacitor before. You have also seen the C terminal on a compressor. It stands to reason that they would both connect together, right? They don't connect, and they aren't even related, at least not in the way you think. In both cases, the C denotes […]

This tech tip was written by Tim De Stasio. He originally published it on his website, which you can visit HERE. Thanks, Tim! In March of 2024, I set out to better understand the cost of ownership and return on investment for two dehumidification strategies: a dedicated dehumidifier versus using electric reheat dehumidification from my […]

Educators love lockout relays, and we also love pretending you will still see them out in the field all the time. Sometimes, I have to look myself in the mirror in the morning and sadly repeat, “Lockout relays are dead.” I have to say it several times before the reality sinks in. Before I get […]