Tech Tips

Whenever there is a conversation where “code” is involved, it's important to mention that codes can vary depending on the AHJ or authority having jurisdiction. It's becoming more common for governments to lean heavily on the ICC (International Code Council). In the case of HVAC/R, that is the IMC (International Mechanical Code), and in the […]

This tech tip is written by experienced tech and VRF / VRV specialist Ryan Findley. Thanks, Ryan! (Note: Ryan refers to VRV rather than VRF because he specializes in Daikin, and these articles are written from a Daikin VRV perspective. Ryan has also written an article about VRV basics and some VRV installation tips.) This […]

Remote Ice Machines Why would someone want to take an already complicated machine and make it even more complicated? The answer: human arrogance and engineer's hubris. (Just kidding.) Fortunately, thousands of these ice machines have been installed and serviced. Let's take a little overview of a few of the critical differences and things to consider […]

How an A/C System got to be Oversized (Maybe) But My Old Unit Worked Fine?! Most of us have heard this at some point. This complaint typically comes from a particularly unhappy customer after the installation of a brand new A/C system. Throughout this article, we’re going to explore the possible root causes of this […]

This article was written by HVAC contractor and Building Science Whiz, Michael Housh. Thanks, Michael! For a while, I’ve fallen into this camp where I feel Manual J overshoots heating loads. First off, I would like to say that Manual J is only as good as the information you give it, but we often run […]

This tech tip was written by experienced tech and VRF/VRV specialist Ryan Findley. Thanks, Ryan! (Note: Ryan refers to VRV rather than VRF because he specializes in Daikin, and these articles are written from a Daikin VRV perspective. He also wrote a great introductory guide to VRV systems, which you can find here.) In this […]

This tech tip was written by experienced tech and VRV specialist Ryan Findley. Thanks, Ryan. This is a quick overview, not a substitute for taking proper manufacturer training.   This tech tip is geared towards the mechanic who is fairly new to VRV systems. As with anything, before we harness the ability to install or […]

First off, I want to thank Ulises Palacios for taking these photos. He is in the habit of cutting open the compressors he replaces to see why they failed (when possible). I think that's pretty boss. So, why would the compressor have copper plating on the inside? They certainly aren't manufactured that way. The short […]

Suction Accumulators A suction accumulator is used to prevent liquid refrigerant floodback to the compressor. A compressor is designed to move vapor refrigerant, NOT liquid, and the accumulator can really help us win that battle. Accumulators are commonly used on heat pumps, transportation refrigeration systems, low-temp supermarket systems, and any place where liquid refrigerant flooding […]