How Factory Refrigerant Charges Are Frequently Wrong & Mislead HVAC Pros with Jim Bergmann | Part 1

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Jim Bergmann, President of measureQuick and Director of New Product Development at Redfish Instruments Inc. They discuss the responsibilities of HVAC technicians, the shift from traditional charging methods to modern techniques like charging blankets, and why accurate diagnostics are crucial. Jim also highlights the importance of continuous learning, the role of technology in optimizing systems, and how better tools can prevent costly mistakes. This in-depth discussion provides valuable insights for HVAC professionals looking to enhance their skills and system efficiency, especially in low ambient conditions.

Jim discusses the challenges HVAC technicians face in low ambient conditions and why standard charging methods don’t always work as well as techniques like charging blankets. He highlights the importance of technicians verifying system charges, ongoing education, and using technology to improve diagnostics and performance. Plus, they explore how better communication and tools can help prevent costly mistakes in the field.

This episode is packed with real-world HVAC insights, technical challenges, and practical advice to help technicians enhance their skills and system efficiency under various conditions.

Expect to Learn:

• The importance of continuous education for technicians to enhance system management.

• The role of modern HVAC diagnostic tools and the challenges in traditional charging methods.

• Why technicians should verify system charges and conditions accurately.

• How outdated techniques and misconceptions lead to costly errors in system optimization.

• How technology like measureQuick and better practices can streamline HVAC operations and improve efficiency.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] – Introduction to Jim Bergmann

[00:57] – Discussion on Low Ambient Charging and Charging Blankets with Jim Bergmann

[04:12] – Charging Blanket Benefits, measureQuick Integration & TXV System Management

[07:14] – Charging Blankets & HVAC in Low Ambient: Ideal optimization & Challenges

[09:43] – The Role of Fan Cycle Control in Stabilizing System Performance

[11:16] – Limitations and Appropriate Conditions for Charging Blanket Use

[13:05] – Discussion on Proper Charging Techniques

[14:36] – Real-life Example of Adjusting Charges in New HVAC Units

[15:17] – Flooded Condenser Controls & Charging Blankets: Benefits and Challenges

[16:56] – Procedure of Charging Blanket Techniques to Heat Pumps

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Lambert Insurance Services: https://www.lambert-ins.com/

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