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In this episode we chat with up-and-coming refrigeration technician, Connor Strickland. Connor talks about the early stages of his journey, his family background in the trade, and the diverse experiences he's had along the way - starting off in HVAC to transitioning into refrigeration. Connor shares the challenges and learning curves he's encountered, including the realities of being on call, the “unpleasant” jobs, and importance of showing respect among peers and willingness to learn.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Connor's journey into refrigeration

-Deciding between college and trades

-First steps in HVAC and refrigeration

-Adapting to on-call work

-Embracing technology in refrigeration

-Electrical systems and troubleshooting

-Importance of personal development in the trades

-Doing the unpleasant jobs well

Helpful Links & Resources:

Episode 185: Refrigeration is a Journey: Ashley Fuller's Refrigeration Roadmap

Episode 299. Basic Refrigeration 101

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In this conversation, we’re chatting with John Shartzer, Director of VRV/VRF Service & Refrigeration at Advanced Heating & Cooling about his extensive experience in the industry. It’s an inspiring story about how to progress from the very start and seek learning opportunities to navigae and thrive in the refrigeration and HVAC industries. John hits on understanding the 'why' behind technical procedures, the roles of specialists vs versatile technicians, as well as the value of continually investing in your education. John has a ton of great tips and advice for any technician looking to build a long, enjoyable career in refrigeration.

In this episode, we discuss: 

-John’s early journey in HVAC and refrigeration

-Challenges and rewards of the trade

-Learning from mistakes and celebrating wins

-Evolution of HVAC practices

-Hydronics and glycol systems in modern HVAC

-The value of versatility

-Understanding the basics of electrical and power issues

-Troubleshooting example: mini split system

-Wiring diagrams and electrical flow

-John’s “Rule of 5” for training 

-Adapting to new generations in the workforce

-Planning for long-term career success

-Tips for new refrigeration technicians

Helpful Links & Resources:

John Shartzer on LinkedIn

John on Instagram

Website: https://advancedheatingcooling.us/

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Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses

In our milestone 300th episode of The Refrigeration Mentor podcast, we’re pleased to have regular guest Andrew Freeberg back to discuss the critical role of training and development in the refrigeration industry. We dive into our own personal stories and share practical advice for technicians at all levels for investing in continuous learning and structured training programs, instead of just trying to learn on the job. All of which will help you learn much faster, reduce job stress, make you a better technician on the spot at service calls and open the door for career and and income advancement. Thanks for helping us get to 300! Appreciate you listening, your shares, reviews, comments, and helping us uplift the refrigeration industry around the world.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Modern platforms for training and development

-Learning and teaching in the industry

-Field assignments and practical applications

-Identifying and solving issues

-The importance of training for safety

-Why training yourself helps the entire industry

-Online drip training vs. condensed live courses

-How many training programs (like Refrigeration Mentor) work

-Understanding order of operations

-Community-based learning

-Where to find hands-on experience

-Management's role in technician development

-Negotiating training payment with your company

Helpful Links & Resources:

Episode 250. Service Call Stories and Troubleshooting Tips with Andrew Freeburg

Episode 201. Removing the Fear of CO2 Refrigeration with Andrew Freeburg

Andrew Freeburg on LinkedIn

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This conversation covers the fundamentals of refrigeration - stresing the importance of repetition and continuous learning in becoming proficient as a technician. We cover essential concepts such as the refrigeration cycle, sensible and latent heat, superheat, subcooling, and critical system checkpoints.  It doesn't matter what level you're at in refrigeration, understanding the fundamentals is the most important thing for building confidence and being able to troubleshoot more effectively. This episode was recorded as part of a live presentation at the  2022 HVACR Training Symposium.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Importance of Repetition

-Key terms and definitions

-The Refrigeration Cycle

-System checkpoints

-Heat concepts

-Superheat

-Manufacturer specifications

-Dew point and subcooling

-Glide and temperature difference

-Four main components of refrigeration systems

-Sequence of operations in refrigeration systems

-Refrigerant dynamics and system adjustments

-Metering devices and liquid line diagnostics

-Evaporator function and heat absorption

-Compressor issues and floodback

Helpful Links & Resources:

Episode 295. A Compressor Story: The Key to Faster Troubleshooting

Danfoss Coolselector®2

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This episode of CO2 Experts is the second of a 2-part lesson on advanced CO2 refrigeration troubleshooting with Chris Brown, Application Engineering Manager of Danfoss (You can listen to Part 1 here). In Part 2, we dive into the technical side of CO2 system start ups - tips and things to look for to really be proficient on getting that rack up and running or getting to a point where you can start adding gas. We also focus optimizing controller settings, tuning, and ensuring effective pressure management. 

In this episode, we discuss:

-Controller tuning and receiver pressure

-Understanding PI selection and tuning results

-Troubleshooting rack superheat

-Hot gas and liquid injection dynamics

-Oil management

-Booster systems and discharge pressure issues

-Understanding medium temp suction pressures

-Low temp discharge safety settings

-Medium temp compressor issues and solutions

-Suction Floating

-Handling emergency shutdowns

-Phase loss monitor checks

-Troubleshooting charge loss

-Leveraging manufacturer support

Helpful Links & Resources:

Danfoss Supermarket Support

Danfoss YouTube Channel

Chris Brown on LinkedIn

Controller Talk Podcast S3 E13: “Inside Supermarket Refrigeration with Refrigeration Mentor, Trevor Matthews”

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This episode of CO2 Experts is the first of a 2-part lesson on advanced CO2 refrigeration troubleshooting with Chris Brown, Application Engineering Manager of Danfoss. Here, we dive into the intricacies of CO2 control systems, including startup procedures, sensor calibration, pressure transducer checks, and the importance of proper insulation and wiring. Chris also shares techniques for fine-tuning and optimizing system components like gas cooler fans, high pressure valves, and parallel compressors. Have a listen, and watch for Part 2 on Monday, April 14.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Danfoss controllers

-Startup and troubleshooting best practices

-Control system breakdown

-Sensor calibration and validation

-Valve and transducer checks

-Understanding temperature control in gas coolers

-Fan speed variations and minimum speeds

-Ejectors

-Importance of accurate sensor readings

-Optimizing system performance

-Challenges in different seasons

-Parallel compression and system tuning

Helpful Links & Resources:

Danfoss Coolselector®2

Chris Brown on LinkedIn

Controller Talk Podcast S3 E13: “Inside Supermarket Refrigeration with Refrigeration Mentor, Trevor Matthews”

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Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses

This episode is a deep dive on electrical troubleshooting in refrigeration. We walk through various troubleshooting techniques and how to better understand wiring diagrams, relays, compressors, sensors, high and low voltage systems, as well as important information on safety and electrical code. Strong electrical troubleshooting skills will make your service calls much more efficient and your job as a refrigeration technician much easier.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Electrical symbols 

-Safety precautions

-Electrical troubleshooting

-Sequence of operation

-Wiring diagrams and panels

-Case controllers

-Using an electrical meter

-Sensors

-Relays and their functions

-Compressor troubleshooting

-Compressor circuits

Helpful Links & Resources:

Episode 259. CO2 Experts Live: Electrical Troubleshooting with Rusty Walker

Episode 12. You Need To Know About Refrigeration Compressor Electrical Issues

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This conversation is what I call “A Compressor Story” which refers to understanding the signs and evidence behind a failed compressor or system in order to trace back to the root cause of the issue. Once you can figure out that story, you can identify and repair issues much faster, becoming a more efficient technician. This episode was recorded from a live presentation at the 2022 HVACR Symposium and includes a realtime teardown of a compressor and interactive troubleshooting with attendees. 

In this episode, we cover: 

-Identifying the cause of a compressor failure

-Compressor tear down

-Mechanical issues and troubleshooting

-Importance of understanding compressor system stories

-Compression ratio and its impact

-Flooded starts and liquid migration

-Diagnosing compressor issues

-Compressor failures: causes and effects

-Flood back: prevention and diagnosis

-Electrical checks

-Mechanical wear and tear: identifying issues

-Real-world examples and lessons

-Educational resources

Helpful Links & Resources:

Data Sheets & Bulletins by Emerson

Copeland Mobile

Bitzer Spot App

HVACR School

HVAC Know It All

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Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses

This conversation is an introduction to the Supermarket Academy - a specialized program designed to enhance the skills and confidence of supermarket and commercial refrigeration technicians. I share my early career struggles that helped inspire and formulate the program, and the specific topics and methods of the program, backed by real-life success stories from technicians of all ages and career levels who have taken it. The ultimate goal is is reducing stress and improving job performance of technicians so we can better serve customers, create better work-life balance and uplift the commercial refrigeration industry around the world.

In this episode, we cover:

-Overcoming early career challenges

-Common struggles on service calls

-Supermarket Academy curriculum and learning method

-Importance of understanding compressors

-Electrical troubleshooting

-Hands-on learning

-Advanced troubleshooting techniques

-Setting up and adjusting EPRs

-Understanding temperature units

-Continuous learning and development

Helpful Links & Resources:

Supermarket Academy Course Outline & Signup

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Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses

In this conversation, we’re talking about the transition to A2L refrigerants with Danilo Gualbino, South American Sales Manager with Honeywell. Danielo shares insights from his experiences at various companies like Honeywell and Copeland, specifically the common challenges faced by technicians and contractors, and tips to help technicians prepare for these changes. We also discuss the differences in standards and practices globally, the significance of training for safe implementation and specific requirements for working with A2L refrigerants. This episode was recorded live at the 2025 AHR Expo.

In this episode, we cover:

-Refrigeration industry transitions

-Differing global standards in refrigeration 

-Retrofits and new installations

-Refrigerant glides

-Compressor types

-Balancing efficiency and maintenance

-Challenges and successes with A2L systems

-Mitigation practices and leak detection

Helpful Links & Resources:

Danilo on LinkedIn

Honeywell website