The Refrigeration Mentor Podcast

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we're talking about key tips and strategies that are guaranteed to make you a better refrigeration professional. These include blending the hard skills of the day-to-day job, along with the softer skills that will help you meet the people and acquire the knowledge to move up in the refrigeration industry. Learning things like preventive maintenance, innovative technologies for CO2 systems, even understanding refrigerant regulations. I'll also share a list of recommended networking events to help you learn, connect and uplift the refrigeration industry as a whole.  In this episode, we discuss: -Refrigerant regulations and industry trends -CO2 strategies and design courses -Importance of preventative maintenance -Attending industry events -Handling the skilled trade shortage -Promoting the refrigeration industry externally -Technician training and success stories -Overcoming industry challenges -Promoting the refrigeration industry -Event highlights and networking -Upcoming events and opportunities Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 216. How to Become a Better Technician By Creating More Value Episode 228. Tips for Faster Service Calls & Better Time Management Chillventa (Oct 13-15, 2026) North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) Events HVAC/R Symposium (Jan 22-23, 2026) Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA) AHR Expo (Feb 2-4 2026) EuroShop (Feb 22-26, 2026)

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we're diving into CO2 refrigeration controls with Paul Shannon, Director of Controls for Loblaw Energy. Paul shares practical tips for navigating case controllers, as well as oil management, understanding high-pressure and flash gas bypass valves, and the significance of building pressurization in refrigeration performance. Paul also outlines the advantages of integrating advanced controls for effective troubleshooting and system optimization.  In this episode, we discuss: -CO2 controls -Paul's journey into the industry -Challenges and learning in co2 systems -Safety line alarms -Networking and case controllers -Helpful hints from Copeland and Microthermal -Tips for technicians before making a call -Common field mistakes and how to avoid them -Understanding high pressure and bypass valves -Importance of continuous learning Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4) Episode 332. 7 Transcritical CO2 Refrigeration Service & Maintenance Tips Episode 201. Removing the Fear of CO2 Refrigeration with Andrew Freeburg  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This is part two of a two-part conversation on CO2 gas coolers with Greg Martel and Al Rivera of BAC (Baltimore Aircoil Company). In this episode, we share practical tips on handling common issues like pump failures, overflow problems, and voltage discrepancies. We also cover how to correctly check alarms, maintain pads, and utilize control strategies for optimal performance. Greg and Al also share great advice on customizing system settings for seasonal efficiency and on using advanced control sequences for energy and water savings. This two-part episode (link to part one below) is packed with practical tips and expert advice to help refrigeration technicians troubleshoot CO2 gas coolers faster and more confidently. In this episode, we discuss: -Common alarms and troubleshooting tips -Pump and flow issues -Water system failures -Control systems and seasonal efficiency -Fan speed control and airflow issues -Heat reclaim and efficiency strategies -Water and fan speed control sequences -Energy saver vs. water saver modes -Proper installation and maintenance of pads Helpful links & resources: BAC Website BAC on Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) Episode 345. Troubleshooting CO2 Gas Coolers with Greg Martel and Al Rivera of BAC (Part 1 of 2)  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This is part one of a two-part conversation on CO2 gas coolers with Greg Martel and Al Rivera of BAC (Baltimore Aircoil Company). We cover many setup and troubleshooting techniques, including detailed information on critical sensors, float switches, sequence operation, ECM fan motors, drop leg sensors, and common water-related issues in CO2 gas coolers. This is an episode packed with practical tips and expert advice to help refrigeration technicians troubleshoot CO2 gas coolers faster and more confidently. In this episode, we discuss: -Critical sensors and troubleshooting -ECM fan motors -Programming ECM fans -Supermarket CO2 systems  -Gas cooler sensor placement -Common water-related issues -Strategies for water and energy efficiency -Maintenance tips for gas coolers -Dealing with scale and hard water -Chemical use and pad maintenance  Helpful links & resources: BAC Website BAC on Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn Episode 191. Designing CO2 Supermarket Refrigeration Systems: Selecting Compressors and Gas Coolers with Chris Griffiths of Omega Solutions (Part 1 of 5) Episode 17. Troubleshooting the Gas Cooler of a Transcritical CO2 Refrigeration System with Lars Hørup Jensen  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This episode is the final in our 4-part "Basics of CO2 Controls" series with Kevin Mullis, Head of Product Engineering at Clade Engineering Systems (links to parts 1-3 below). In this one, we cover service calls and troubleshooting for CO2 rack controllers. This episode is packed with practical techniques and lessons, including dealing with overcharged and undercharged systems, interpreting critical data points from controllers, recognizing symptoms of common issues, and ensuring optimal system performance. We also discussstrategies for collaboration and communication among fellow technicians. In this episode, we discuss: -Real-world troubleshooting scenarios -Teamwork and communication in the field -Service calls and fault situations -Analyzing controller data -Identifying system issues -High pressure valve troubleshooting -Gas cooler and receiver issues -Probes and sensor placement -Ambient temperature considerations -Receiver pressure fluctuations -Understanding CO2 rack issues -Problems with high liquid levels -Common causes of overcharging -Challenges with sight glasses -Winter scenarios and heat recovery Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4) Episode 341. Basics of CO2 Controls - Programming RDM with Kevin Mullis (Part 2 of 4) Episode 343. Basics of CO2 Controls - Programming CAREL with Kevin Mullis (Part 3 of 4) Follow Kevin on LinkedIn Clade Engineering Systems

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This is the third in a 4-part "Basics of CO2 Controls" series with Kevin Mullis, Head of Product Engineering at Clade Engineering Systems, this one focusing specifically on Programming with CAREL. We'll discuss the similarities between different control systems, basic components and proper installation. We also cover technical aspects, including electronic valves, pressure measurements, wiring and cable specifications for stepper valves. Better knowledge of CO2 control systems will not only help refrigeration technicians troubleshoot more efficiently, but also build much better relationships with customers and store managers.  In this episode, we discuss:  -CAREL controllers and electronic valves -Controller manual usage best practices -CO2 system pressure measurement challenges -CAREL controller configuration and flexibility -Stepper valve controller safety features -Cable specifications for stepper valves -CPT (calculated product temperature) -PID (proportional-integral-derivative) control -Maintaining controller settings -Refrigeration defrost cycle management  Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4) Episode 341. Basics of CO2 Controls - Programming with RDM with Kevin Mullis (Part 2 of 4) Episode 30. CAREL's CO2 Electronic Valves and CO2 Controllers with Timo Kaufhold  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This episode is a casual coffee session with longtime technician, Andrew Freeburg, sharing stories and lessons learned from past service calls. We discuss a number of topics, including troubleshooting oil pressure issues in refrigeration systems, P&ID diagrams, high humidity, and even practical tips for creating effective training videos for fellow technicians. We also dive into the importance of setting both professional and personal goals and the value of seeking out training resources and communities to help teach and mentor you on your career journey. Want to take part in our next coffee chat live? Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here. In this conversation, we cover: -Creating effective training videos -Oil pressure issues -Troubleshooting sweating cases -Understanding mullion heaters -High humidity and HVAC issues -Importance of reading manuals -Real-world troubleshooting examples -Goal-setting -Personal and professional growth in the trades Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 337. Troubleshooting a Refrigeration Rack Down with Andrew Freeburg Episode 250. Service Call Stories and Troubleshooting Tips with Andrew Freeburg Episode 163. A Pro's Handbook for Effective Refrigeration Troubleshooting  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this second part of our Basics of CO2 Controls training series, we're diving into programming RDM controllers and staging compressors. This episode focuses on understanding inputs and outputs, programming controllers and mastering the fundamentals behind various manufacturers' controls, including Danfoss, Microthermal and more. Kevin shares key information on setting pressure targets, understanding response times, working with receiver interlocks, and more, all to help refrigeration technicians handle any CO2 refrigeration system more efficiently. In this episode, we cover: -Programming controllers -Understanding compressor staging and alarms -Mapping inputs and outputs -Setting compressor parameters -Safety in CO2 refrigeration systems -Dry ice formation -Managing discharge pressure and alarms -High ambient temperature strategies -Optimizing gas cooler and receiver settings -Noise control Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4) Episode 170. Troubleshooting RDM CO2 Controllers w/Cody Hamm and Chris Prom Resource Data Management RDM Episode 64. CO2 Controls with RDM Resource Data Management

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This episode is the first of a four-part CO2 series, starting off with a dive into the basics of CO2 controls with Kevin Mullis, Head of Product Engineering at Clade Engineering Systems. This is about returning to fundamentals, even for seasoned technicians, to ensure a thorough understanding CO2 controls, programming, wiring diagrams, meter readings, and step-by-step troubleshooting techniques. Kevin shares lots of great tips and advice for refrigeration technicians to enhance their skills and confidence in handling CO2 refrigeration systems. In this episode, we cover: -Introduction to CO2 controls -Refrigeration controller fundamentals and basics -Wiring diagrams -Importance of proper tools -RDM controllers -Probes and transducers -Relays and voltage -Voltage and relays -Testing and troubleshooting relays -Universal inputs and outputs -Analog signals and transducers -Identifying and tracing probes -Practical tips for wiring and safety -Compressor circuits and VFD's -Sequence of operation in CO2 systems -Analyzing a zero zone drawing Helpful Links & Resources: Follow Kevin on LinkedIn Clade Engineering Systems Episode 315. Mastering RDM Controls, Live Commissioning & Networking Essentials with Kevin Mullis 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 episode, we're joined by longtime refrigeration professionals Andrew Freeburg and Erik Holland for a casual "Morning Coffee" covering both technical topics and personal development in the refrigeration industry. We dive into tips and field experiences for troubleshooting communication (comm) loss and controller issues in refrigeration systems. We also discuss the value of mentorship in refrigeration and have some great advice on how technicians new and experienced can mentor peers.  In this episode, we cover: -Mentorship and personal growth -Lessons from the field: com loss issues -Communication issues in controls -Recording video on service calls -Configuring controllers -Importance of proper wiring and polarity -Backup and version control -Controller replacement -Power of mentorship Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 338. Professional Development Tools & Resources in Refrigeration Episode 261. Supermarket Case Controller Troubleshooting Tips Episode 59. Industry Development and Training  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, I'm joined by regular guest Andrew Freeburg for a casual coffee talk focusing on professional development for refrigeration technicians. Andrew shares his experience and the importance of investing in oneself through learning opportunities and attending training events. We also dive into the crucial role of good communication in troubleshooting and sharing knowledge within your team, making everyone's job easier and more effective.   In this episode, we discuss:  -Time management tips -Effective communication strategies -Maintaining professionalism on the job -Technical troubleshooting: ethernet issues -Basics of controls  -Training new technicians -Attention to detail -Using multimeters and understanding sequences -Learning flex combiners and AI troubleshooting -Developing skills on different controllers -Switching controllersInputs, outputs, and relays -The value of hands-on training and networking  Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 337. Troubleshooting a Refrigeration Rack Down with Andrew Freeburg Episode 139. 7 Tips For Building Good Training And Development Habits Episode 24. The Importance of Training & Development in the Refrigeration Industry w/ John MacInnis  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses This episode kicks off another series of "Morning Coffees" featuring conversations with refrigeration technicians sharing stories and lessons learned from the field. These chats are aimed at helping fellow refrigeration technicians grow in their careers based on the real-world troubleshooting experiences of others. This episode features Andrew Freeburg talking about his experience handling a complex refrigeration system rack down, as well as practical tips on processes and handling customer communication. In this episode, we discuss: -Diagnosing a rack issue -Finding and fixing a leak -Customer communication and documentation -Mentorship and team leadership -Communication skills in the trades -Handling customer conversations -Importance of labeling and maintenance -Time management and efficiency on service calls -Testing and analysis procedures -Sales skills for refrigeration technicians Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 334. 10-Point Rack Preventative Maintenance Checklist Episode 250. Service Call Stories and Troubleshooting Tips with Andrew Freeburg  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we're diving into electronic case controllers and valves. I share practical tips on accessing and interpreting manuals, setting up controllers, and troubleshooting common issues. We also cover control points, sensor calibration, and fine-tuning P&IDs. Investing time in learning these systems will enhance your skills and help you become a more proficient technician. In this episode, we discuss: -Electronic valves and controllers -Understanding case controllers -Specific controllers from Danfoss, Copeland, Microthermal and more -Finding and using manuals -Setting up controllers -Fine-tuning and troubleshooting -Investing in learning and development Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 257. CO2 Experts Live: Case Controllers with Kevin Mullis Episode 132. Copelands E3 Controller & CC200 Secrets: Unveiling the Top 5 CO2 Tips with Brent Cheshire Episode 282. Danfoss CO2 Controllers with Dave Yoder  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode of the Refrigeration Mentor Podcast, I'm sharing 5 tips that will help you get you to the the next level of your refrigeration career. These extend beyond the technical skills and into personal development, including building leadership and communication skills, understanding project management basics, expanding industry knowledge and networking. These actionable tips will help technicians transition into new and higher roles and tremendously expand your potential for income and career advancement. In this episode, we cover: -Personal development in the trades -Setting career goals -Building leadership and communication skills -Understanding project management basics -Expanding industry knowledge and networking -Importance of industry conferences -Networking strategies for technicians -Taking on small projects to build skills -Investing in continuing education -Developing financial and business acumen -Practicing problem solving and decision making Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 274. The Biggest Key To Career Success in Refrigeration Episode 301. Lessons From a Long Career in Refrigeration with John Shartzer Episode 224. The Key To Finding New Career Opportunities as a Technician North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) Events Food Industry Association (FMI) Events RETA National Conference Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) Events International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration (IIAR)  https://www.ahrexpo.com/ Chillventa

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, I'm sharing a 10-point preventative maintenance checklist for supermarket refrigeration systems. Having a comprehensive maintenance checklist is so important and will greatly speed up your efficiency on service calls. This list covers everything from visual inspections, to checking compressor health, verifying electrical components, and ensuring proper refrigerant circuits. Having this standard go-to checklist will help technicians elevate their troubleshooting ability, improve the longevity and efficiency of the refrigeration systems you're working on, and enhance your professional reputation.  In this episode, we cover: -Importance of preventative maintenance -Visual inspection essentials -Compressor health check -Electrical components and safety -Refrigerant circuit checks -Condenser and evaporator maintenance -Identifying frosting issues in refrigeration systems -Using trend graphs for maintenance insights -Importance of oil management -Defrost schedule and alarm verification -Documenting and baseline settings Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 332. 7 Transcritical CO2 Refrigeration Service & Maintenance Tips Episode 213. Supermarket Refrigeration Preventative Maintenance with Andrew Freeburg Episode 70. Building Your Refrigeration Maintenance and Service Checklist  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we digging into the importance of ongoing training and education in the refrigeration industry, particularly as the season transitions to fall. From basic supermarket training programs to advanced concepts, there's so much value in understanding the engineering aspects of refrigeration systems for any technicians aiming to enhance their troubleshooting skills, confidence, and career growth. This episode also includes success stories from technicians who have advanced rapidly by investing in training and taking advantage of available resources.  In this episode, we cover: -Training programs and success stories -Importance of P&IDs  -Troubleshooting techniques -Investing in continuous learning -Resourcefulness and problem solving -Having checklists -Service call dilemmas -Efficiency in troubleshooting -Investing in yourself -Learning from others -Importance of asking questions -Future of refrigeration Helpful Links & Resources: Supermarket Refrigeration Tech-Talk Episode 250. Service Call Stories and Troubleshooting Tips with Andrew Freeburg Episode 288. The Payoff of Investing Time & Money in Training with Jesse Stewart Episode 139. 7 Tips For Building Good Training And Development Habits  

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, I'm sharing 7 essential service and maintenance tips for transcritical CO2 refrigeration systems. These tips will help refrigeration technicians build confidence and capability in handling CO2 systems. They include building a baseline snapshot, ensuring gas cooler health, optimizing high-pressure valves, stabilizing flash tanks, maintaining proper superheat, managing oil return, and emphasizing safety. I also cover practical field checks and signs to look for when on service calls that will help your troubleshoot and make repairs more efficiently.  In this episode, we discuss: -Building a baseline -Gas cooler health check -High pressure valve optimization -Flash tank stability -Defrost and compressor checks -Oil management essentials -Field techniques and observations -Ssafety protocols and leak response -CO2 system maintenance tips Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 227. Getting to Know Transcritical CO2 Supermarket Refrigeration Systems with Kevin Mullis Episode 73: Tips And Tricks When Working On CO2 Transcritical Systems VIDEO: Pushing Dorin CO2 Compressors to the Limit | A Deep Dive into Qualification Testing

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we take an in-depth look at compressor electrical failures. We'll break down common issues such as burnt motor windings, short to ground, oil contamination, single phasing, and more. We'll also cover the importance of thorough diagnostics, regular checklists, and understanding the root causes to prevent repeat failures. This episode is packed with practical tips and techniques for troubleshooting and improving your skills in refrigeration maintenance and repair. In this episode, we discuss: -Compressor electrical failures -Burnt motor windings -Short to ground issues -Oil contamination -Single phasing and phase imbalance -Locked rotor and mechanical seizure -Contactor failures and overload protectors -Diagnosing compressor issues -Performing an ohm test -Understanding rated load amps -Using manufacturer software for diagnostics -Quick checks for compressor health -Electrical troubleshooting tips -Common electrical failures -Importance of checklists Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 323. Electrical Troubleshooting 101 Episode 115: Understanding Compressors: What You Need To Know 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 In this conversation, we're going over oil troubleshooting in refrigeration systems. This episode covers common issues like dirty systems, plugged filters, and improper system designs that can lead to oil failures. We'll also talk about pressure differentials, proper installation practices, efficiency tests and mechanical issues like short cycling and blow-by. Understanding how to identify oil issues on service calls will help refrigeration technicians troubleshoot more efficiently and better serve your customers. In this episode, we cover: -Understanding oil issues in refrigeration systems -Dirty systems  -Maintenance tips -Pressure differentials -Troubleshooting oil failures -Compressor efficiency tests -System design and installation issues -CO2 systems and overheating problems Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 53. Understanding Oil Issues and Building your Technical Database Episode 56. Two Stage Transcritical Dorin Compressors Episode 247. Oil Management with Patrick Gregory

Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses In this episode, we go deep into detail about understanding the ins and outs of compressors. We cover everything from components, to common mistakes refrigeration technicians make when it comes to compressors, to practical tips for troubleshooting and finding the root cause of compressor issues. Understanding compressors is critical to helping technicians with efficiency and time management on service calls. In this episode, we discuss:  -Compressor components -Advanced compressor troubleshooting -Avoiding parts changing mentality -Finding the root cause of compressor issues -Understanding compressor proof failures -Taking notes on jobs -Efficient compressor replacement strategies -Checking compressor specifications before installation -Learning from manufacturer manuals Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 115: Understanding Compressors: What You Need To Know Episode 188. Compressor Secrets (I Wish I Knew When I Started My Refrigeration Career) Episode 133. Your Compressor Success Guide Download Your Free Compressor Guide Here