HVAC Techs Are Destroying Compressors with Moisture and Charging Mistakes - Matthew Waxer Part 2

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Matthew Waxer, HVAC/R Mechanic at Kilmer HVACR Services Inc, about proper system setup and the impact of moisture and refrigerant charge on system performance. In Part 2, they discuss evacuation practices, moisture control, and how acid can form inside a system and damage components. Matthew explains the risks of undercharging and overcharging, including overheating, high-pressure issues, and liquid returning to the compressor. They also cover concepts like superheat, subcooling, and compressor envelopes, along with common failure causes such as flood back and flooded starts. The conversation wraps up with practical insights on avoiding costly breakdowns through proper installation and maintenance.

Gary and Matthew discuss how moisture and refrigerant charge affect system performance and compressor life. They explain how poor evacuation leaves moisture in the system, which can lead to acid formation and damage over time. Matthew describes the risks of undercharging and overcharging, including overheating, high-pressure issues, and liquid returning to the compressor. They also cover key checks like superheat, subcooling, and staying within the compressor operating range. They finish by explaining common failure causes like flood back and flooded starts, and how proper setup and maintenance can prevent costly system damage.

Expect to Learn:

• How moisture left in a system can lead to acid and damage over time.

• How proper evacuation helps reduce moisture and protect system components.

• Why is the correct refrigerant charge important for compressor cooling and performance?

• How superheat and subcooling are used to check system operation.

• How issues like floods and flooded starts can cause major compressor failure.

 

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad

[00:42] - Intro to Matthew Waxer in Part 02 

[02:04] - Matthew: Moisture removal and decay test explained

[04:27] - Gary & Matthew: Acid formation from moisture damages compressors

[07:10] - Undercharged systems: Elevated superheat cooks compressors

[10:31] - Overcharge and poor airflow cause high pressure and slugging

[15:22] - Zero superheat = liquid flood back to compressor

[17:40] - Flooded start: Liquid refrigerant in sump destroys compressor

[21:18] - Liquid migration from risers and cold ambient starts

 

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

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

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

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm
Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

 

Follow the Guest Matthew Waxer on: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-waxer-b4a62360/  

Kilmer HVACR Service Inc - Website: https://kilmerservice.com/  

 

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

Follow the Podcast on: 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll  

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455