Avsnitt
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This month marks the 3 year anniversary of the Refrigeration Mentor Podcast! Thanks to all of you listening day in, day out, investing in yourself, getting to the next level in your career and making an impact on the people you serve. Also, thanks for all your reviews and comments, which helps us grow the podcast. To mark the anniversary, we're re-releasing some of our top downloaded podcasts from the past 3 years. We continue our countdown with Episode 135. 15 Tips To Become a Great Service Technician.
In this episode, we cover:
-Mastering technical skills
-Hands-on experience
-Problem-solving abilities
-Effective communication
-Customer service
-Efficient time management
-Continuous learning
-Certifications
-Safety
-Attention to detail
-Adaptability
-Professional appearance
-Ethical conduct
-Networking
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 309. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #3 (Episode 203. Supermarket Refrigeration Service Tech Tips with Andrew Freeburg)
Episode 308. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #4 (Episode 188. Compressor Secrets I Wish I Knew When I Started My Refrigeration Career)
Episode 307. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #5 (Episode 113. 5 Tips on Developing a Growth Mindset)
Episode 228. Tips for Faster Service Calls & Better Time Management
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This month we’re celebrating the 3 year anniversary of the Refrigeration Mentor Podcast by re-releasing some of our top downloaded podcasts from the past 3 years - ones you expressed how it changed your refrigeration career and your life. Thanks to all of you tuning in and for all your reviews and comments, which help people discover the podcast on all our platforms. And thanks for helping us build this Refrigeration Mentor community all over the world over these 3 years. Number 3 in our countdown is Episode 203. "Supermarket Refrigeration Service Tech Tips with Andrew Freeburg."
In this episode, we discuss:
-A step-by-step walkthrough of an efficient service call
-Importance of good communication with a customer
-Questions to ask a customer to assess a service call
-How to do an effective visual inspection
-Why to divide your tools into different sets
-Importance of understanding electrical circuits
-Providing highly detailed invoices to customers
-Understanding controls
-Not just repairing problems, but determining why the problem occurred
-Finding a mentor in the refrigeration trade
-Creating a service call checklist
Helpful resources & links:
Episode 308. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #4 (Episode 188. Compressor Secrets I Wish I Knew When I Started My Refrigeration Career)
Episode 307. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #5 (Episode 113. 5 Tips on Developing a Growth Mindset)
Episode 251. Supermarket Refrigeration Service and Troubleshooting Tips
Andrew Freeburg on LinkedIn
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This month marks the 3 year anniversary of the Refrigeration Mentor Podcast! Thanks to all of you tuning in to help elevate yourselves and our industry, and for all your reviews and comments, which help people discover the podcast on all our platforms. To mark the anniversary, we're re-releasing some of our top downloaded podcasts from the past 3 years - ones you expressed how it changed your refrigeration career and your life. Number 4 in our countdown is Episode 188. Compressor Secrets I Wish I Knew When I Started My Refrigeration Career.
In this episode, we discuss:
-Compressor Troubleshooting
-Performance charts
-Compressor operation and maintenance
-Proper tools
-Scroll compressor mechanics
-Compression ratios
-Investigating compressor failures
-High and low evaporator pressures
-Handling high condensing temperatures
-Mass flow
-Super heat checks
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 307. 3rd Anniversary Listener Favourite Countdown #5 (Episode 113. 5 Tips on Developing a Growth Mindset)
(Original Release) Episode 188. Compressor Secrets (I Wish I Knew When I Started My Refrigeration Career)
Episode 133: Your Compressor Success Guide
Episode 115: Understanding Compressors: What You Need To Know
Episode 143: Advanced Compressor Service and Refrigeration Troubleshooting
Video: Dorin Two Stage Transcritical CO2 Compressor with Giacomo Pisano from Dorin Compressors
Bitzer: https://www.bitzer.de/ca/en/
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This month marks the 3 year anniversary of the Refrigeration Mentor Podcast! Firstly, thanks to all of you listening day in, day out, investing in yourself, getting to the next level in your career and making an impact on the people you serve. Also, thanks for all your reviews and comments, which help people discover the podcast on all our platforms. To mark the milestone, we're re-releasing some of our top downloaded podcasts from the past 3 years - ones you expressed how it changed your refrigeration career and your life. We’re starting off this countdown with Episode 113. “5 Tips on Developing a Growth Mindset” which was recorded during a live session at the NASRC CO2 event in California.
In this episode we discuss:
-Setting goals
-Developing habits
-Making a plan
-Taking action
-Believing in yourself
Helpful links & Resources:
(Original episode) Episode 113. 5 Tips on Developing a Growth Mindset
Episode 214. How to Develop the Right Mindset for Success
North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC)
Book: Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
Book: Limitless by Jim Kwik
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this conversation, we chat with Andrew Freeburg about effective strategies for tackling supermarket refrigeration service calls. Andrew shares insights from his nearly 20 years of experience and thousands of calls, including technical advice and the value of building relationships with customers. We also dive into avoiding common pitfalls technicians often face and tips for technicians to build confidence and tackle supermarket service calls faster and more effectively.
In this episode, we discuss:
-Tips for building confidence on service calls
-Importance of communication in service calls
-Effective pre-call preparation
-Common mistakes on service calls
-Building relationships with customers
-New customers and stores
-Fixing the customer's problem
-Professionalism on calls
-Building trust with customers
-Handling service calls efficiently
Helpful Links & Resources:
Supermarket Service Call Workshop - May 24th, 2025 (sign up here)
Episode 300. The Power of Training and Development in Refrigeration with Andrew Freeburg
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this edition of CO2 Experts, we focus on electrical troubleshooting in CO2 refrigeration systems. Learn steps for navigating electrical diagrams, identifying key symbols, and understanding how different components work together. I share tips on effectively measuring voltage, interpreting wiring schematics, and troubleshooting common issues. Understanding the electrical makeup of a refrigeration system will help technicians identify problems faster and fix issues much more efficiently.
In this episode, we discuss:
-Understanding electrical symbols
-Reading electrical wiring diagrams
-Practical tips for technicians
-Advanced electrical concepts
-Electrical troubleshooting in refrigeration
-Time delay relays
-High pressure and temperature controls
-Relay functions and issues
-Temperature and pressure probes
Helpful links & Resources:
Episode 296. Electrical Troubleshooting in Refrigeration
Episode 246. CO2 Experts: Startup and Commissioning with Kevin Mullis
Episode 259. CO2 Experts Live: Electrical Troubleshooting with Rusty Walker
Episode 277. CO2 Experts: Pressure Relief Valves - Sizing, Selecting & Troubleshooting with Jordan Gronkowski
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this conversation, we welcome back Erik Holland, Aftersales Engineer with Advansor to dive into his unique journey from electrician to refrigeration expert. Eric has some great insights on understanding complex systems from his work traveling the world doing startups and teaching techs how to start their systems up and best utilize them. We also discuss computerized control systems, working with CO2 refrigeration, and drop tons of practical advice for refrigeration technicians looking to advance their careers.
In this episode, we discuss:
-From electrician to refrigeration expert
-Learning in the Field
-Understanding complex refrigeration systems
-Training and knowledge sharing
-Resourcefulness in remote locations
-Troubleshooting tips
-CO2 heat recovery and environmental considerations
-Safety measures in refrigerant handling
-Importance of proper training and equipment
-Embracing advanced refrigeration systems and technology
-Investing in training early in your career
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 265. CO2 Experts Live: Startup & Commissioning a CO2 Heat Pump with Erik Holland
Erik on LinkedIn
https://www.advansor.com/
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this conversation, we’re joined by Tony Mormino, host of HVAC TV to discuss content creation and using social media and online platforms to educate the industry. Tony shares his journey, starting from sales to becoming a content creator, and offers tips for those new to creating content. He also talks about about the importance of providing value, maintaining authenticity in your content, and how platforms like LinkedIn have evolved as a way to uplift the entire industry by providing education and valuable information to masses of people in a way we weren’t able to before. Have a listen and be sure to Tony’s socials and subscribe (links below).
In this episode, we discuss:
-The rise of online content
-Creating value through content
-The importance of personal branding
-The evolution of HVAC TV
-Content creation tips and challenges
-Learning and teaching in hvac
-Engaging with your online community
-Getting comfortable on camera
-Content creation strategies and inspiration
-Editing and video quality
-Using content to train and educate
-Advice for new content creators
Helpful Links & Resources:
HVAC TV on YouTube
Tony Mormino on LinkedIn
Episode 197. Filters to Followers - Mastering the Art of Social Media for Education with “The HVAC Doctor” Matt Waxer
Gary Vaynerchuk
Book: Think & Grow Rich by Napolean Hill
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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/
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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”
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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”
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
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
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this conversation, we’re talking about high ambient strategies for CO2 systems and how proper implementation can help refrigeration porfessionals save customers money. Specifically, this episode covers 3 main strategies: parallel compression, adiabatic gas coolers and ejectors, as well as the importance of customized, location-specific design and implementation. This episode was recorded live as part of a presentation at the 2025 AHR Expo.
In this episode, we cover:
-CO2 high mmbient strategy overview
-Global regulations and CO2 implementation
-Understanding flash gas in CO2 systems
-Parallel compression
-Adiabatic gas coolers
-Ejectors
-Case Study: flash Gas Bypass vs. Parallel Compression vs. Ejectors
-Future of CO2 refrigeration systems
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 7. High Ambient Strategies for CO2 Refrigeration with Andre Patenaude
-
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This conversation is an introduction to HB Products sensors with International Sales Manager, Rooba Sivagnanam and Product Manager, Henrik Kudsk. For technicians who are seeing more and more of these sensors in the field, we’ll break down the latest advancements in their capacitive sensors, vapor quality sensors and defrost sensors. We also talk about some innovative ways this Denmark-based company is making refrigeration systems more efficient and environmentally friendly.
In this episode, we cover:
-Understanding capacitance sensors
-Transitioning from technician to sales
-Sensor installation
-Vapor quality sensors
-Temperature and capacitance
-Selecting the correct sensor
-Sensors for CO2 systems
-Sensors for secondary CO2 systems
-Condensation issues in sensors
-Importance of manuals and troubleshooting
-Transition to natural refrigerants
-Innovations in wafer sensor technology
-Defrost strategies and energy efficiency
-Tips for new technicians
Helpful Links & Resources:
Website: HB Products
HB Products YouTube Channel
Rooba on LinkedIn
Henrik on LinkedIn
- Visa fler
