Roman Baugh, Matthew Condron, and Luke Peterson discuss the importance of proper condensate drain installation and maintenance, particularly in commercial applications. The conversation begins with the hosts examining the typical drain configurations seen in different regional markets, highlighting the significant variations in practices across the country. Sizing and configuration of condensate drains can have a significant impact on system performance, especially in high-static pressure systems. He emphasizes that the "one-size-fits-all" approach of using a 2-inch trap is often insufficient, as the static pressure within the system can overcome the trap's ability to prevent air from being sucked into the drain line. The hosts discuss the chart Roman presents, which provides guidance on selecting the appropriate trap depth based on the static pressure of the system. The discussion then delves into the challenges associated with maintaining condensate drains, including the buildup of debris and the potential for double traps or airlock issues. The hosts share their experiences and best practices for cleaning and troubleshooting drain lines, with a particular focus on the importance of understanding the system's airflow and static pressure characteristics. The conversation also touches on the use of condensate pumps, with the hosts expressing mixed opinions on their effectiveness and the potential for issues, particularly in high-humidity environments. The importance of proper insulation and support for drain lines is also highlighted, as sagging or improper installation can lead to further problems over time. Key Topics Covered: <ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Typical drain configurations in different regional markets</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">The impact of static pressure on condensate drain performance</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Proper trap sizing and depth based on system static pressure</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Challenges with drain line maintenance and troubleshooting</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">The use of condensate pumps and their potential drawbacks</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Importance of proper insulation and support for drain lines</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Strategies for cleaning and maintaining condensate drains</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Relationship between airflow, static pressure, and drain issues</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Redundant protection methods, such as secondary drain pans and switches</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Techniques for identifying and addressing air turbulence issues</li> </ul>   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at <a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool">https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool</a>.  Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24">https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24</a>. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast <a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2">HERE</a>, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe <a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school">HERE</a>.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel at <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS">https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS</a>.  Check out our handy calculators <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/">HERE</a> or on the HVAC School Mobile App (<a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">Google Play Store</a> or <a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954">App Store</a>).

<description>&lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;Roman Baugh, Matthew Condron, and Luke Peterson discuss the importance of proper condensate drain installation and maintenance, particularly in commercial applications. The conversation begins with the hosts examining the typical drain configurations seen in different regional markets, highlighting the significant variations in practices across the country.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;Sizing and configuration of condensate drains can have a significant impact on system performance, especially in high-static pressure systems. He emphasizes that the "one-size-fits-all" approach of using a 2-inch trap is often insufficient, as the static pressure within the system can overcome the trap's ability to prevent air from being sucked into the drain line. The hosts discuss the chart Roman presents, which provides guidance on selecting the appropriate trap depth based on the static pressure of the system.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The discussion then delves into the challenges associated with maintaining condensate drains, including the buildup of debris and the potential for double traps or airlock issues. The hosts share their experiences and best practices for cleaning and troubleshooting drain lines, with a particular focus on the importance of understanding the system's airflow and static pressure characteristics.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The conversation also touches on the use of condensate pumps, with the hosts expressing mixed opinions on their effectiveness and the potential for issues, particularly in high-humidity environments. The importance of proper insulation and support for drain lines is also highlighted, as sagging or improper installation can lead to further problems over time.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;Key Topics Covered:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Typical drain configurations in different regional markets&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;The impact of static pressure on condensate drain performance&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Proper trap sizing and depth based on system static pressure&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Challenges with drain line maintenance and troubleshooting&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;The use of condensate pumps and their potential drawbacks&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Importance of proper insulation and support for drain lines&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Strategies for cleaning and maintaining condensate drains&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Relationship between airflow, static pressure, and drain issues&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Redundant protection methods, such as secondary drain pans and switches&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Techniques for identifying and addressing air turbulence issues&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at &lt;a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool"&gt;https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24"&gt;https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast &lt;a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe &lt;a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;.”&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube channel at &lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-e2ac7e96-7fff-36b8-d17a-ccb0d658a6bb"&gt;Check out our handy calculators &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt; or on the HVAC School Mobile App (&lt;a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US&amp;pli=1"&gt;Google Play Store&lt;/a&gt; or &lt;a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954"&gt;App Store&lt;/a&gt;).&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Roman Baugh, Matthew Condron, and Luke Peterson discuss the importance of proper condensate drain installation and maintenance, particularly in commercial applications. The conversation begins with the hosts examining the typical drain configurations...

Condensate Drains Install & Service

In this short podcast episode, Bryan explains electronic expansion valve (EEV) types. EEVs perform the same function as TXVs, but they operate electronically, not mechanically. The EEV makes sure that the evaporator is full of the right amount of refrigerant at saturation; it doesn't just affect evaporator pressure. We don't want high superheat (due to inefficiency), and we don't want zero superheat (due to the risk of compressor failure). EEVs commonly have a stepper motor with a set of discrete settings depending on how many rotations the motor has made. It can be fully open or fully closed, and the number of rotations can set the valve at any value between fully open and fully closed; it's open or closed by a specific percentage. Instead of a bulb and external equalizer, a pressure transducer and temperature sensor report to the controller and give the controller the data it needs to open or close the EEV to maintain a specific superheat. Pulse-width modulation (PWM) allows an EEV to open and close rapidly. Unlike a stepper motor, PWM solenoids make an EEV stay fully open or fully closed for a specific percentage of time. It receives pressure information from a pressure transducer and temperature information from a thermistor or thermocouple.  As with a TXV, you would look at superheat and pressures to make sure the EEVs are operating correctly.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at <a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool">https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool</a>.  Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24">https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24</a>. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast <a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2">HERE</a>, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe <a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school">HERE</a>.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel at <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS">https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS</a>.  Check out our handy calculators <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/">HERE</a> or on the HVAC School Mobile App (<a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">Google Play Store</a> or <a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954">App Store</a>).

<description>&lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;In this short podcast episode, Bryan explains electronic expansion valve (EEV) types. EEVs perform the same function as TXVs, but they operate electronically, not mechanically.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;The EEV makes sure that the evaporator is full of the right amount of refrigerant at saturation; it doesn't just affect evaporator pressure. We don't want high superheat (due to inefficiency), and we don't want zero superheat (due to the risk of compressor failure).&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;EEVs commonly have a stepper motor with a set of discrete settings depending on how many rotations the motor has made. It can be fully open or fully closed, and the number of rotations can set the valve at any value between fully open and fully closed; it's open or closed by a specific percentage. Instead of a bulb and external equalizer, a pressure transducer and temperature sensor report to the controller and give the controller the data it needs to open or close the EEV to maintain a specific superheat.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Pulse-width modulation (PWM) allows an EEV to open and close rapidly. Unlike a stepper motor, PWM solenoids make an EEV stay fully open or fully closed for a specific percentage of time. It receives pressure information from a pressure transducer and temperature information from a thermistor or thermocouple. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;As with a TXV, you would look at superheat and pressures to make sure the EEVs are operating correctly.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at &lt;a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool"&gt;https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24"&gt;https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast &lt;a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe &lt;a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;.”&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube channel at &lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-e2ac7e96-7fff-36b8-d17a-ccb0d658a6bb"&gt;Check out our handy calculators &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt; or on the HVAC School Mobile App (&lt;a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US&amp;pli=1"&gt;Google Play Store&lt;/a&gt; or &lt;a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954"&gt;App Store&lt;/a&gt;).&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this short podcast episode, Bryan explains electronic expansion valve (EEV) types. EEVs perform the same function as TXVs, but they operate electronically, not mechanically. The EEV makes sure that the evaporator is full of the right amount of...

EEV Types - Short #193

This episode of the HVAC School Live Stream covers the key concepts around heat pump efficiency and understanding the coefficient of performance (COP). Eric Kaiser from TruTech Tools and Jim Fultz from White-Rodgers provide valuable insights into how heat pumps operate and how to optimize their performance, especially in colder weather conditions. The discussion begins by exploring the COP of heat pumps and how it compares to the efficiency of electric resistance heat. A COP above 1 means the heat pump is delivering more heat for the same amount of energy input compared to electric resistance heat. Many homeowners mistakenly believe they should switch to emergency heat once the outdoor temperature drops, thinking the heat pump is no longer efficient. However, even at very low outdoor temperatures, a well-designed heat pump can still operate with a COP above 1, making it a more cost-effective heating option than emergency heat. The conversation then delves into the concept of the thermal balance point, which is the outdoor temperature at which the heat pump can no longer meet the heating load of the home. The guests discuss how to calculate this balance point and how to set up controls to optimize the use of the heat pump and any supplemental heating sources, such as electric resistance heat or a gas furnace in a dual-fuel system. They emphasize the importance of proper air distribution and avoiding blowing cold air directly on the occupants, which can be a common complaint with heat pumps. Key Topics Covered: <ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Coefficient of Performance (COP) and how it compares to electric resistance heat</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Efficiency of heat pumps at low outdoor temperatures</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Thermal balance point and how to calculate it</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Optimizing control settings to balance heat pump and auxiliary heat usage</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Importance of proper air distribution and avoiding blowing cold air directly on occupants</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Considerations for dual-fuel systems with both a heat pump and a gas furnace</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Best practices for programming thermostats and control systems to ensure optimal performance and comfort</li> </ul>   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at <a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool">https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool</a>.  Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24">https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24</a>. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast <a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2">HERE</a>, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe <a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school">HERE</a>.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel at <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS">https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS</a>.  Check out our handy calculators <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/">HERE</a> or on the HVAC School Mobile App (<a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">Google Play Store</a> or <a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954">App Store</a>).

<description>&lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;This episode of the HVAC School Live Stream covers the key concepts around heat pump efficiency and understanding the coefficient of performance (COP). Eric Kaiser from TruTech Tools and Jim Fultz from White-Rodgers provide valuable insights into how heat pumps operate and how to optimize their performance, especially in colder weather conditions.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The discussion begins by exploring the COP of heat pumps and how it compares to the efficiency of electric resistance heat. A COP above 1 means the heat pump is delivering more heat for the same amount of energy input compared to electric resistance heat. Many homeowners mistakenly believe they should switch to emergency heat once the outdoor temperature drops, thinking the heat pump is no longer efficient. However, even at very low outdoor temperatures, a well-designed heat pump can still operate with a COP above 1, making it a more cost-effective heating option than emergency heat.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The conversation then delves into the concept of the thermal balance point, which is the outdoor temperature at which the heat pump can no longer meet the heating load of the home. The guests discuss how to calculate this balance point and how to set up controls to optimize the use of the heat pump and any supplemental heating sources, such as electric resistance heat or a gas furnace in a dual-fuel system. They emphasize the importance of proper air distribution and avoiding blowing cold air directly on the occupants, which can be a common complaint with heat pumps.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;Key Topics Covered:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Coefficient of Performance (COP) and how it compares to electric resistance heat&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Efficiency of heat pumps at low outdoor temperatures&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Thermal balance point and how to calculate it&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Optimizing control settings to balance heat pump and auxiliary heat usage&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Importance of proper air distribution and avoiding blowing cold air directly on occupants&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Considerations for dual-fuel systems with both a heat pump and a gas furnace&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Best practices for programming thermostats and control systems to ensure optimal performance and comfort&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at &lt;a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool"&gt;https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24"&gt;https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast &lt;a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe &lt;a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;.”&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube channel at &lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-e2ac7e96-7fff-36b8-d17a-ccb0d658a6bb"&gt;Check out our handy calculators &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt; or on the HVAC School Mobile App (&lt;a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US&amp;pli=1"&gt;Google Play Store&lt;/a&gt; or &lt;a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954"&gt;App Store&lt;/a&gt;).&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>

This episode of the HVAC School Live Stream covers the key concepts around heat pump efficiency and understanding the coefficient of performance (COP). Eric Kaiser from TruTech Tools and Jim Fultz from White-Rodgers provide valuable insights into how...

Heat Pump COP and Low Temp Lock Out

In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about motor protection types, including overloads. The most common overload we see in residential HVAC is a built-in thermal overload, which is usually a bimetallic disk that flexes in response to heat (such as from a locked condition, electrical problem, or simply running hot) and opens the circuit. The two metals have different expansion and contraction rates, which causes the flexing; they will return to their original position once the motor cools down. In some cases, these can fail when they open and close too often; they are not designed for switching duty. Many circuit breakers have a similar thermal design and may be prone to nuisance tripping in the summer. A lot of commercial motors rely on external overloads; some are even built into the electrical box rather than the compressor. These external magnetic overloads are often integrated into the contactor, which turns the motor on and off; this type of contactor is called a starter. These starters may have adjustable overload settings based on current, not just temperature (which may also respond to nuisance sources of heat and require a cooldown period). Some circuit breakers also trip magnetically and are less likely to be affected by temperature. Thermistor-based overloads usually consist of a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) resistor; as temperature goes up, resistance goes up, which can take a motor winding out of the circuit. NTCs are in separate parallel circuits with relays; as the resistance decreases, it pulls in a coil that opens the circuit.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at <a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool">https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool</a>.  Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24">https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24</a>. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast <a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2">HERE</a>, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe <a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school">HERE</a>.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel at <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS">https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS</a>.  Check out our handy calculators <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/">HERE</a> or on the HVAC School Mobile App (<a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">Google Play Store</a> or <a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954">App Store</a>).

<description>&lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about motor protection types, including overloads.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;The most common overload we see in residential HVAC is a built-in thermal overload, which is usually a bimetallic disk that flexes in response to heat (such as from a locked condition, electrical problem, or simply running hot) and opens the circuit. The two metals have different expansion and contraction rates, which causes the flexing; they will return to their original position once the motor cools down. In some cases, these can fail when they open and close too often; they are not designed for switching duty. Many circuit breakers have a similar thermal design and may be prone to nuisance tripping in the summer.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;A lot of commercial motors rely on external overloads; some are even built into the electrical box rather than the compressor. These external magnetic overloads are often integrated into the contactor, which turns the motor on and off; this type of contactor is called a starter. These starters may have adjustable overload settings based on current, not just temperature (which may also respond to nuisance sources of heat and require a cooldown period). Some circuit breakers also trip magnetically and are less likely to be affected by temperature.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Thermistor-based overloads usually consist of a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) resistor; as temperature goes up, resistance goes up, which can take a motor winding out of the circuit. NTCs are in separate parallel circuits with relays; as the resistance decreases, it pulls in a coil that opens the circuit.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at &lt;a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool"&gt;https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24"&gt;https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast &lt;a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe &lt;a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;.”&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube channel at &lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-e2ac7e96-7fff-36b8-d17a-ccb0d658a6bb"&gt;Check out our handy calculators &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt; or on the HVAC School Mobile App (&lt;a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US&amp;pli=1"&gt;Google Play Store&lt;/a&gt; or &lt;a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954"&gt;App Store&lt;/a&gt;).&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about motor protection types, including overloads. The most common overload we see in residential HVAC is a built-in thermal overload, which is usually a bimetallic disk that flexes in response to heat (such...

Motor Protection Types - Short #192

This podcast features a lively discussion on expansion valves, particularly thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs or TEVs), with a panel of expert guests - Corey Cruz (a market refrigeration tech), Matthew Taylor (head of refrigeration service at Kalos), and Joe Shearer (with Precision Air Conditioning). The conversation kicks off by busting some common myths surrounding expansion valves. The guests agree that minutiae like the precise clocking (rotational orientation) of the sensing bulb or whether it's mounted horizontally or vertically tend to be overemphasized. The key is ensuring good thermal contact between the bulb and refrigerant line. They dive into the operating principles of an expansion valve, explaining how it's essentially a balanced system of forces between the inlet (liquid) pressure, the outlet (suction) pressure, the pressure in the sensing bulb corresponding to superheat, and the adjustable spring force. Getting the superheat dialed in properly is crucial for efficient system operation. The experts share valuable insights on best practices like avoiding heat damage during brazing, using the right valve for the application, not adjusting the valve unnecessarily, allowing stable operation before making adjustments, and considerations like external equalizers. Real-world examples and demonstrations with failed valve components illustrate the importance of proper installation and maintenance. Topics covered include: <ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Common expansion valve myths and overemphasized factors</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">How an expansion valve works and the balanced forces involved</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Superheat, hunting, and minimum stable superheat</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Recommended bulb insulation practices for different applications</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Proper bulb mounting, clamping techniques, and thermal contact</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">When and how to adjust the valve (or not)</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Effects of plugged external equalizers and pressure drops</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Selecting the right valve size and type (bleed vs hard shutoff)</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Common installation errors like reverse flow direction</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Troubleshooting tips for various systems and scenarios</li> <li class="whitespace-normal break-words">Importance of airflow, load conditions, and other system factors</li> </ul>   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at <a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool">https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool</a>.  Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24">https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24</a>. If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast <a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2">HERE</a>, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe <a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school">HERE</a>.” Subscribe to our YouTube channel at <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS">https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS</a>.  Check out our handy calculators <a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/">HERE</a> or on the HVAC School Mobile App (<a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">Google Play Store</a> or <a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954">App Store</a>).

<description>&lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;This podcast features a lively discussion on expansion valves, particularly thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs or TEVs), with a panel of expert guests - Corey Cruz (a market refrigeration tech), Matthew Taylor (head of refrigeration service at Kalos), and Joe Shearer (with Precision Air Conditioning).&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The conversation kicks off by busting some common myths surrounding expansion valves. The guests agree that minutiae like the precise clocking (rotational orientation) of the sensing bulb or whether it's mounted horizontally or vertically tend to be overemphasized. The key is ensuring good thermal contact between the bulb and refrigerant line.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;They dive into the operating principles of an expansion valve, explaining how it's essentially a balanced system of forces between the inlet (liquid) pressure, the outlet (suction) pressure, the pressure in the sensing bulb corresponding to superheat, and the adjustable spring force. Getting the superheat dialed in properly is crucial for efficient system operation.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;The experts share valuable insights on best practices like avoiding heat damage during brazing, using the right valve for the application, not adjusting the valve unnecessarily, allowing stable operation before making adjustments, and considerations like external equalizers. Real-world examples and demonstrations with failed valve components illustrate the importance of proper installation and maintenance.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap break-words"&gt;Topics covered include:&lt;/p&gt; &lt;ul class="list-disc pl-8 space-y-2 -mt-1"&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Common expansion valve myths and overemphasized factors&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;How an expansion valve works and the balanced forces involved&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Superheat, hunting, and minimum stable superheat&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Recommended bulb insulation practices for different applications&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Proper bulb mounting, clamping techniques, and thermal contact&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;When and how to adjust the valve (or not)&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Effects of plugged external equalizers and pressure drops&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Selecting the right valve size and type (bleed vs hard shutoff)&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Common installation errors like reverse flow direction&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Troubleshooting tips for various systems and scenarios&lt;/li&gt; &lt;li class="whitespace-normal break-words"&gt;Importance of airflow, load conditions, and other system factors&lt;/li&gt; &lt;/ul&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt; &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at &lt;a href= "https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool"&gt;https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;Learn more about the 5th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24"&gt;https://hvacrschool.com/Symposium24&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;If you have an iPhone, subscribe to the podcast &lt;a href= "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-school-for-techs-by-techs/id1155660740?mt=2"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;, and if you have an Android phone, subscribe &lt;a href= "http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt;.”&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p role="presentation"&gt;Subscribe to our YouTube channel at &lt;a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS"&gt;https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p class="whitespace-pre-wrap"&gt;&lt;strong id= "docs-internal-guid-e2ac7e96-7fff-36b8-d17a-ccb0d658a6bb"&gt;Check out our handy calculators &lt;a href= "https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/"&gt;HERE&lt;/a&gt; or on the HVAC School Mobile App (&lt;a href= "https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hvacrschool_final&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US&amp;pli=1"&gt;Google Play Store&lt;/a&gt; or &lt;a href= "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hvac-school/id1436085954"&gt;App Store&lt;/a&gt;).&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

This podcast features a lively discussion on expansion valves, particularly thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs or TEVs), with a panel of expert guests - Corey Cruz (a market refrigeration tech), Matthew Taylor (head of refrigeration service at...

Expansion Valves - What Does and Doesn't Matter?

Real training for HVAC ( Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) Technicians. Including recorded tech training, interviews, diagnostics and general conversations about the trade.

HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

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