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As HVAC equipment becomes more complex and new technologies are introduced, the need for continual theory, practicality, and hands-on training is essential to understand, install, and service new equipment. 

When a refrigeration system has lost most of its refrigerant charge in a short period of time, the leak is probably significant and should be easy to find.

Now that the battle regarding ozone depleting potential (ODP) refrigerants has ended with the phaseout of CFCs and HCFCs, the fighting has shifted to issues related to the global warming potential (GWP) of the remaining and newly developing refrigerants.

They serve two purposes: They regulate water flow to maintain the system’s high-side pressure and stop the flow of water when the system cycles off so as not to waste water.

The attention being paid to so-called natural refrigerants is showing a shift toward hydrocarbon refrigerants, even as CO2 gains a stronger foothold and ammonia maintains a high profile. But, whether or not there will be a dominant natural choice remains unclear even in Europe, much less North America.

Industry figures are estimates that are derived from the best available figures supplied by a sample of AHRI member companies.

Some contractors and wholesalers are concerned about how to sell the value of compressor electronics to homeowners, but about a quarter surveyed see no barriers to selling whatsoever.

Simulation software offers another approach to learning, giving students an alternate route to learn the information taught in class. 

This system is the missing link between one- and two-pipe steam. It was used in tall buildings in the early 1900s because a building this tall wouldn’t work well with one-pipe steam if the supply came up from the basement. 

Regular maintenance is even more crucial for newer heat pumps, whose efficiency decreases greatly if not properly maintained.