What Causes HVAC Compressor Failure? Installation Oil Problems and Sizing Errors - Matthew Waxer Part 1

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Matthew Waxer, HVAC/R Mechanic at Kilmer HVACR Services Inc, to discuss how to prevent compressor failure through proper installation, service, and maintenance practices. Matthew explains how many compressor failures are caused by system issues like poor brazing, incorrect sizing, and a lack of proper oil return. The conversation covers key factors such as nitrogen purging, moisture control, and the impact of short cycling or overheating on compressor life. Gary and Matthew also explore what can be learned from compressor tear-downs and how small mistakes over time can lead to major failures.

In this conversation, Matthew explains how proper installation and maintenance practices help prevent compressor failure in HVAC systems. He describes how issues like poor nitrogen purging, moisture contamination, and incorrect system sizing can damage compressors over time. Matthew and Gary discuss how oil return, airflow, and system load affect compressor performance and lifespan. They also cover what technicians can learn from compressor tear-downs, including signs of overheating and lack of lubrication, and explain how careful setup and servicing can improve reliability and system efficiency.

Expect to Learn:

• How proper installation practices help prevent compressor failure in HVAC systems.

• Why nitrogen purging and moisture control are critical to system reliability.

• How incorrect sizing can lead to short cycling or overheating issues.

• What causes poor oil return, and how does it affect compressor lubrication and lifespan?

• How teardowns reveal common failure points and help improve service practices.

Episode Highlights:

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

[00:42] - Intro to Matthew Waxer in Part 1

[02:04] - Main topic: Avoiding compressor failure 

[04:06] - "Compressors don't fail, they're murdered." 

[05:36] - Start with proper installation 

[07:06] - Proper system sizing: avoid short cycling 

[09:18] - Read manuals & check oil return requirements 

[10:38] - Oil return issues from clogged components 

[16:41] - POE oil moisture risks & proper vacuuming 

[21:55] - POE oil additives & system open time myth

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