Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533Storms, CO2 Chaos & Subcooler Shenanigans | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastHosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with stories from a week derailed by severe storms, power outages, and traffic caused by downed lines. Brett describes a startup nightmare at a new CO2 store: a Danfoss controller pressure-reading issue drives a rack into high-head cycling, a backup condensing unit is disabled by a tripped breaker traced to an earwig in a contactor, and the site loses charge and power while relief-valve issues persist and generator startup is delayed. They then discuss building a transcritical water-cooled condenser skid for a high-rise and criticize building condenser-water BTU billing in winter when grocery racks effectively replace boilers. The conversation shifts to basic refrigeration, focusing on mechanical subcooling benefits, TXV sizing realities, nozzle color codes, and common control mistakes involving sensors, gauge vs absolute settings, wiring errors, and strategies to prevent floodback.

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533Storms, CO2 Chaos & Subcooler Shenanigans | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastHosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with stories from a week derailed by severe storms, power outages, and traffic caused by downed lines. Brett describes a startup nightmare at a new CO2 store: a Danfoss controller pressure-reading issue drives a rack into high-head cycling, a backup condensing unit is disabled by a tripped breaker traced to an earwig in a contactor, and the site loses charge and power while relief-valve issues persist and generator startup is delayed. They then discuss building a transcritical water-cooled condenser skid for a high-rise and criticize building condenser-water BTU billing in winter when grocery racks effectively replace boilers. The conversation shifts to basic refrigeration, focusing on mechanical subcooling benefits, TXV sizing realities, nozzle color codes, and common control mistakes involving sensors, gauge vs absolute settings, wiring errors, and strategies to prevent floodback.

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 532 ICAD 600A vs 600B Deep Dive: Calibration Alarms, O-Ring Chaos, and CO₂ Rack Relief Valve Nightmares. In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass swap war stories from the field, including a CO₂ startup derailed by the manufacturer installing low-temp reliefs everywhere, causing charging chaos and a panicked GC threatening to call the fire department. They then dive into Danfoss ICM/ICAD troubleshooting—breaking down ICMTSC B vs C differences, how magnets help verify valve position, and how debris, missing strainers, incorrect or double O-ring setups, and moisture/rust can trigger calibration alarms. Brett demonstrates ICAD 600A wiring, analog signal setup, and feedback scaling issues, then shows ICAD 600B features like Bluetooth configuration, passwords, event logs, manual mode behavior, and Modbus options, emphasizing proper setup, alarm contacts, and disconnecting the app.

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 532 ICAD 600A vs 600B Deep Dive: Calibration Alarms, O-Ring Chaos, and CO₂ Rack Relief Valve Nightmares. In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass swap war stories from the field, including a CO₂ startup derailed by the manufacturer installing low-temp reliefs everywhere, causing charging chaos and a panicked GC threatening to call the fire department. They then dive into Danfoss ICM/ICAD troubleshooting—breaking down ICMTSC B vs C differences, how magnets help verify valve position, and how debris, missing strainers, incorrect or double O-ring setups, and moisture/rust can trigger calibration alarms. Brett demonstrates ICAD 600A wiring, analog signal setup, and feedback scaling issues, then shows ICAD 600B features like Bluetooth configuration, passwords, event logs, manual mode behavior, and Modbus options, emphasizing proper setup, alarm contacts, and disconnecting the app.

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 531CO₂ Store Startup Chaos: Danfoss Comms Troubleshooting, 880 Ethernet Headaches & Miswired TransducersIn this comedic episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass jump from off-the-rails banter into the real pain of starting up a major Chicago retailer’s first CO₂ store packed with Danfoss case controllers and mixed equipment. They swap war stories about botched case wiring, backward check valves, and why scanning huge Modbus networks can be painfully slow even with limits set. Kevin shares a faster comm-troubleshooting method using resistors to quickly spot crossed loops, breaks, and hidden voltage issues, plus common headaches like case controller addresses not “taking,” app-based setup tips, and what upload vs. download means on the 880. They also cover recurring 880 Ethernet/IP glitches, DHCP reinitialize workarounds, chronic miswired Danfoss transducers and plugs, and the questionable choice of running multiple walk-in coils on a single case controller.

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 531CO₂ Store Startup Chaos: Danfoss Comms Troubleshooting, 880 Ethernet Headaches & Miswired TransducersIn this comedic episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass jump from off-the-rails banter into the real pain of starting up a major Chicago retailer’s first CO₂ store packed with Danfoss case controllers and mixed equipment. They swap war stories about botched case wiring, backward check valves, and why scanning huge Modbus networks can be painfully slow even with limits set. Kevin shares a faster comm-troubleshooting method using resistors to quickly spot crossed loops, breaks, and hidden voltage issues, plus common headaches like case controller addresses not “taking,” app-based setup tips, and what upload vs. download means on the 880. They also cover recurring 880 Ethernet/IP glitches, DHCP reinitialize workarounds, chronic miswired Danfoss transducers and plugs, and the questionable choice of running multiple walk-in coils on a single case controller.

Carel HecU and RHEC Manager I Have No Idea But Let's Go Through IT Together Episode 529Carel HECO/pRack Simulator Chaos: CO₂ Store Startup, Firmware Headaches & High-Pressure Valve SettingsIn this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetsel and Kevin Kompus roast the brutal heat and then jump into a messy CO₂ startup at a Jewel-Osco—made worse by electricians missing neutrals on case circuits. From there, they wander into hands-on “FAFO” mode using Carel’s RHEC Manager to simulate HECO/pRack controllers, repeatedly running into freezes, blank screens, and the key gotcha: you can’t open or simulate a program unless the firmware version and required binary/CT-CD files match, and the firmware isn’t visible inside the downloaded variable list. They poke through CO₂ transcritical menus (HPV/receiver/flash tank pressures, valve behaviors, safeties), discuss tuning KP/KI on a pulse-width valve to stop it from slamming shut, and complain about proprietary MultiMAX/Pico programming, limited support, and confusing compressor staging logic, teasing a follow-up on laptop connections and navigation.

Carel HECO/pRack Simulator Chaos: CO₂ Store Startup, Firmware Headaches & High-Pressure Valve SettingsIn this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetsel and Kevin Kompus roast the brutal heat and then jump into a messy CO₂ startup at a Jewel-Osco—made worse by electricians missing neutrals on case circuits. From there, they wander into hands-on “FAFO” mode using Carel’s RHEC Manager to simulate HECO/pRack controllers, repeatedly running into freezes, blank screens, and the key gotcha: you can’t open or simulate a program unless the firmware version and required binary/CT-CD files match, and the firmware isn’t visible inside the downloaded variable list. They poke through CO₂ transcritical menus (HPV/receiver/flash tank pressures, valve behaviors, safeties), discuss tuning KP/KI on a pulse-width valve to stop it from slamming shut, and complain about proprietary MultiMAX/Pico programming, limited support, and confusing compressor staging logic, teasing a follow-up on laptop connections and navigation.

Dorin Compressor Software What Can I Use It For & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529 Dorin CO₂ App Walkthrough + Heatwave Rack Chaos (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with jokes about Brett’s new tooth causing a lisp before diving into brutal Chicagoland heat (95°F+ for two weeks) and how it’s hammering CO₂ racks, especially systems without adiabatics. Kevin describes racks struggling at peak hours, capacity gaps where a second compressor is too large, VFDs stuck at minimum, low suction, rising discharge temps, overload trips, and heavy flash gas with bypass valves 50–60% open, with gas cooler outlet temps around 97–98°F (near ambient). They discuss limited quick fixes, defrost scheduling problems, and controller wiring/programming hurdles. Brett then screen-shares a training-style walkthrough of the Dorin app for sizing and troubleshooting, entering typical inputs to estimate compressor selection, discharge temperature, amperage, and using those values diagnostically to spot issues like valve plate blow-by rather than relying on pump-down tests.

Dorin Compressor Software What Can I Use It For & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529 VideoDorin CO₂ App Walkthrough + Heatwave Rack Chaos (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with jokes about Brett’s new tooth causing a lisp before diving into brutal Chicagoland heat (95°F+ for two weeks) and how it’s hammering CO₂ racks, especially systems without adiabatics. Kevin describes racks struggling at peak hours, capacity gaps where a second compressor is too large, VFDs stuck at minimum, low suction, rising discharge temps, overload trips, and heavy flash gas with bypass valves 50–60% open, with gas cooler outlet temps around 97–98°F (near ambient). They discuss limited quick fixes, defrost scheduling problems, and controller wiring/programming hurdles. Brett then screen-shares a training-style walkthrough of the Dorin app for sizing and troubleshooting, entering typical inputs to estimate compressor selection, discharge temperature, amperage, and using those values diagnostically to spot issues like valve plate blow-by rather than relying on pump-down tests.

Fishing Fails, Target Startup Nightmares & Chicago Fireman’s Dump Lines | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with fishing stories and then jump into a rough Target CO2 startup plagued by miswired comm loops, mixed case-control hardware, and constant walking in a multi-level downtown layout. They discuss troubleshooting methods for crisscrossed MODbus wiring, common causes of shorts and opens, and an electrician mistake that blew an XM controller apart. The hosts explain Chicago’s “fireman’s dump line” code requirement and how piping it off the bottom of a suction header can trap oil and cause recurring low-oil issues. They also flag a backwards high-pressure control/relay setup on a Target backup CO2 unit, share practical tips for S3C/Corelink/CC200 case controllers, Ethernet jumpers, termination, protecting solid-state outputs, transducer orientation, and water-damaged controllers from case washing.

Sporlan S3C, Comm Loops, Fireman's Dump Line, Brett's Retiring, and Noodling Episode 528Fishing Fails, Target Startup Nightmares & Chicago Fireman’s Dump Lines | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with fishing stories and then jump into a rough Target CO2 startup plagued by miswired comm loops, mixed case-control hardware, and constant walking in a multi-level downtown layout. They discuss troubleshooting methods for crisscrossed MODbus wiring, common causes of shorts and opens, and an electrician mistake that blew an XM controller apart. The hosts explain Chicago’s “fireman’s dump line” code requirement and how piping it off the bottom of a suction header can trap oil and cause recurring low-oil issues. They also flag a backwards high-pressure control/relay setup on a Target backup CO2 unit, share practical tips for S3C/Corelink/CC200 case controllers, Ethernet jumpers, termination, protecting solid-state outputs, transducer orientation, and water-damaged controllers from case washing.

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527 Post-Anesthesia Tech Tips: iPRO V5 ADF File Failures, Valve Driver Mix-Ups & Danfoss Tunneling GotchasBrett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Brett fresh out of oral surgery and sounding “absolutely hammered,” then pivot into startup tips for new CO₂ racks using E3/E2 controllers with iPROs. They warn that many OEM programs load the wrong ADF files—using iPRO CO2 instead of the iPRO V5 ADF—causing pressures/temps to read correctly while the HPV stays at 0% and won’t open, potentially high-heading and shutting the rack down; the fix involves deleting old ADF files and fully reprogramming the application. They also cover common configuration mistakes like valve steps being “x10,” assigning valves to the wrong drivers on V5 dual-driver setups, verifying peak/holding current and step rates for Danfoss valves, checking swapped T1/T2 sensors, and adding backup network P/T sensors for redundancy. Finally, they describe Danfoss PAC/System Manager tunneling being disabled after about eight hours for security, a Danfoss controller IP-address glitch that may require toggling HTTPS/DHCP or reloading the program, and the importance of correct HTTP vs HTTPS ports when connecting remotely.

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527 Post-Anesthesia Tech Tips: iPRO V5 ADF File Failures, Valve Driver Mix-Ups & Danfoss Tunneling GotchasBrett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Brett fresh out of oral surgery and sounding “absolutely hammered,” then pivot into startup tips for new CO₂ racks using E3/E2 controllers with iPROs. They warn that many OEM programs load the wrong ADF files—using iPRO CO2 instead of the iPRO V5 ADF—causing pressures/temps to read correctly while the HPV stays at 0% and won’t open, potentially high-heading and shutting the rack down; the fix involves deleting old ADF files and fully reprogramming the application. They also cover common configuration mistakes like valve steps being “x10,” assigning valves to the wrong drivers on V5 dual-driver setups, verifying peak/holding current and step rates for Danfoss valves, checking swapped T1/T2 sensors, and adding backup network P/T sensors for redundancy. Finally, they describe Danfoss PAC/System Manager tunneling being disabled after about eight hours for security, a Danfoss controller IP-address glitch that may require toggling HTTPS/DHCP or reloading the program, and the importance of correct HTTP vs HTTPS ports when connecting remotely.

Target Startup Chaos, Buggy CoreLinks, andDanfoss EKE400/ICAD Headaches | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett and Kevin open the AdvancedRefrigeration Podcast after a brutal week, with Brett stuck on a transcritical Kevinwith a  startup at a poorly designed downtown store wherethe E3 and roof access are far from the grocery and the rack is on the roof. Heblames electricians for mis-marked and mixed-up comm lines, missingcontrol-power splices, and dangerous live voltages, turning a “simple” startupinto days of rework. They also vent about painfully slow, buggy CoreLinksetup and web UI issues compared to smoother E3 terminal mode. Kevin then walksthrough using a Danfoss EKE400 in CoolConfig for defrost and reheat control, MMRGdisplay jumper/address quirks, Modbus connection ideas, and generating wiringdiagrams. They finish with ICAD failures, O-ring moisture/rust problems, andsolving calibration alarms via process-of-elimination part swapping.

Target Startup Chaos, Buggy CoreLinks, andDanfoss EKE400/ICAD Headaches | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett and Kevin open the AdvancedRefrigeration Podcast after a brutal week, with Brett stuck on a transcritical Kevinwith a  startup at a poorly designed downtown store wherethe E3 and roof access are far from the grocery and the rack is on the roof. Heblames electricians for mis-marked and mixed-up comm lines, missingcontrol-power splices, and dangerous live voltages, turning a “simple” startupinto days of rework. They also vent about painfully slow, buggy CoreLinksetup and web UI issues compared to smoother E3 terminal mode. Kevin then walksthrough using a Danfoss EKE400 in CoolConfig for defrost and reheat control, MMRGdisplay jumper/address quirks, Modbus connection ideas, and generating wiringdiagrams. They finish with ICAD failures, O-ring moisture/rust problems, andsolving calibration alarms via process-of-elimination part swapping.

Skills Canada Gold, Rack Life inNewfoundland, and the Great Apprenticeship Debate | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome Devon Owens from Newfoundland, a three-time Skills Canada gold medalist, to talk shop andtrade some laughs. Devon breaks down Skills Canada—provincials, nationals, and worlds—plus the intense 15-hour two-day refrigeration build he finished as theonly competitor, featuring a two-evaporator, two-temperature system with EPRs, solenoids, transducers, a superheat controller, and an EEV. The conversationshifts to how Canadian apprenticeship schooling differs from U.S. union training, including unpaid full-time pre- eployment, block exams, pay-scale progression, and a challenging 125-question journeyman exam that spans everything from CO2 and ammonia to natural gas. They also touch on rack work,CO2 sites in Newfoundland, 600V power, and why water leaks can ruin your day.

Skills Canada Gold, Rack Life in Newfoundland, and the Great Apprenticeship Debate Advanced Refrigeration Podcast In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome Devon Owens from Newfoundland, a three-time Skills Canada gold medalist, to talk shop and trade some laughs. Devon breaks down Skills Canada—provincials, nationals, and worlds—plus the intense 15-hour two-day refrigeration build he finished as the only competitor, featuring a two-evaporator, two-temperature system with EPRs, solenoids, transducers, a superheat controller, and an EEV. The conversation shifts to how Canadian apprenticeship schooling differs from U.S. union training, including unpaid full-time pre-employment, block exams, pay-scale progression, and a challenging 125-question journeyman exam that spans everything from CO2 and ammonia to natural gas. They also touch on rack work, CO2 sites in Newfoundland, 600V power, and why water leaks can ruin your day.

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524 Hotel Wi‑Fi, Flat Tires & Parallel Compression Chaos | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Dumpless kick off this episode from a wildly bright SpringHill Suites in Fort Worth after travel chaos, traffic frustration, and a flat tire that dropped pressure to zero in record time. From there, they jump into real-world rack work: long weeks on a rack change-out, frustrations with manufacturers leaving no room for core pullers on EPRs/A8 valves, and the familiar pain of electrical contractors who don’t read prints. Kevin walks through a parallel compression CO₂ startup, including staging issues tied to flash gas bypass valve capacity, oil reservoir differential problems, and how a weighted check valve maintains oil flow when flash tank pressures rise. They compare oil separator strategies, discuss ICAD reliability versus steppers, and highlight a dock reheat/dehumidification setup using defrost return gas and controls.

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524 VideoHotel Wi‑Fi, Flat Tires & Parallel Compression Chaos | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Dumpless kick off this episode from a wildly bright SpringHill Suites in Fort Worth after travel chaos, traffic frustration, and a flat tire that dropped pressure to zero in record time. From there, they jump into real-world rack work: long weeks on a rack change-out, frustrations with manufacturers leaving no room for core pullers on EPRs/A8 valves, and the familiar pain of electrical contractors who don’t read prints. Kevin walks through a parallel compression CO₂ startup, including staging issues tied to flash gas bypass valve capacity, oil reservoir differential problems, and how a weighted check valve maintains oil flow when flash tank pressures rise. They compare oil separator strategies, discuss ICAD reliability versus steppers, and highlight a dock reheat/dehumidification setup using defrost return gas and controls.

Newfoundland Time, 43-Year-Old Hill Racks, and CO2 Mini Packs Gone Wild | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with travel chaos and stories from Brett’s Newfoundland training trip, including sightseeing, getting “screeched in,” and learning about the 2 and a half-hour time zone. Kevin contrasts with a rough week changing out 43-year-old Hill racks for new Hussmann racks, dealing with tight valve layouts, vacuum work, reused refrigerant, and major electrical/control complications in an old store with fuse buckets. They explain what Atron surge receivers are, why they fail, and common retrofit approaches. The conversation shifts to small Walmart CO2 “baby” racks and common field issues: critical charging challenges with heavy tanks, relief valves popping due to 650-psi-rated filter driers, problematic relief piping requirements, and the need for better high-pressure serviceable solutions. They close by teasing a deeper future episode on these single CO2 units and their controllers.

Changing Racks Shooting The Sh$T & I Got Screeched With A Gold Medalist in NewFoundLand Episode-523Newfoundland Time, 43-Year-Old Hill Racks, and CO2 Mini Packs Gone Wild | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with travel chaos and stories from Brett’s Newfoundland training trip, including sightseeing, getting “screeched in,” and learning about the 2 and a half-hour time zone. Kevin contrasts with a rough week changing out 43-year-old Hill racks for new Hussmann racks, dealing with tight valve layouts, vacuum work, reused refrigerant, and major electrical/control complications in an old store with fuse buckets. They explain what Atron surge receivers are, why they fail, and common retrofit approaches. The conversation shifts to small Walmart CO2 “baby” racks and common field issues: critical charging challenges with heavy tanks, relief valves popping due to 650-psi-rated filter driers, problematic relief piping requirements, and the need for better high-pressure serviceable solutions. They close by teasing a deeper future episode on these single CO2 units and their controllers.

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522Stop the VFD Hunt: Fixing 0–10V Scaling, Ramps, and Skip Frequencies (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with early-morning chaos, then dive into a common rack problem: VFD and controller settings that don’t match, causing suction oscillation and valve hunting. Using an E3/E2-style controller and a Danfoss drive example, they explain correcting the 0–10V analog output scaling so the drive responds immediately (often setting the low end to about 5V and matching minimum reference), aligning minimum/maximum references and speed limits (e.g., typical low-speed limits around 28–30 Hz and high limits around 60 Hz), and avoiding overly aggressive ramp rates that worsen overshoot. They also discuss using skip/bypass frequencies to eliminate resonance that shakes racks, breaks clamps, and damages piping, noting common troublesome ranges seen on certain compressors.

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522Stop the VFD Hunt: Fixing 0–10V Scaling, Ramps, and Skip Frequencies (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with early-morning chaos, then dive into a common rack problem: VFD and controller settings that don’t match, causing suction oscillation and valve hunting. Using an E3/E2-style controller and a Danfoss drive example, they explain correcting the 0–10V analog output scaling so the drive responds immediately (often setting the low end to about 5V and matching minimum reference), aligning minimum/maximum references and speed limits (e.g., typical low-speed limits around 28–30 Hz and high limits around 60 Hz), and avoiding overly aggressive ramp rates that worsen overshoot. They also discuss using skip/bypass frequencies to eliminate resonance that shakes racks, breaks clamps, and damages piping, noting common troublesome ranges seen on certain compressors.

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521TechLab TK4 Oil Level Controls: Dongles, Alarms, and Why “Limit Injections” Can Kill a RackBrett and Kevin swap war stories from a sweltering Georgia service call where Kevin quickly solves a persistent comm issue caused by a fallen rod rubbing through and shorting a comm wire, while also noticing a dangerously supported main water line. Back home, they dig into TechLab oil level controls (TK4/TK1), rant about hard-to-find manufacturer documentation, and walk through setting up the Bluetooth dongle/software to communicate, view status, and manually cycle the solenoid to watch oil-fill timing. They highlight how the “limit injections” setting can stop refilling during an alarm and shut down a rack, discuss injection/monitoring timing tradeoffs for low vs. medium temp systems, and note the pressure differential setting doesn’t appear to change timing automatically. They compare TechLab favorably to Kriwan, show teardown observations, and joke about laptops, metric screws, and oil-shower failures.

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521TechLab TK4 Oil Level Controls: Dongles, Alarms, and Why “Limit Injections” Can Kill a RackBrett and Kevin swap war stories from a sweltering Georgia service call where Kevin quickly solves a persistent comm issue caused by a fallen rod rubbing through and shorting a comm wire, while also noticing a dangerously supported main water line. Back home, they dig into TechLab oil level controls (TK4/TK1), rant about hard-to-find manufacturer documentation, and walk through setting up the Bluetooth dongle/software to communicate, view status, and manually cycle the solenoid to watch oil-fill timing. They highlight how the “limit injections” setting can stop refilling during an alarm and shut down a rack, discuss injection/monitoring timing tradeoffs for low vs. medium temp systems, and note the pressure differential setting doesn’t appear to change timing automatically. They compare TechLab favorably to Kriwan, show teardown observations, and joke about laptops, metric screws, and oil-shower failures.

LMP Rack Deep Dive: Hot Gas Defrost, Superheat Mitigation & Refrigeration “Witchcraft”Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with weekend plans and a chaotic start featuring mystery music and van-recorded audio, then jump into Kevin’s hectic week swapping out 40-year-old racks and venting about painfully unserviceable EPR and valve layouts while converting controls from CPC to Danfoss. Brett outlines a common VFD control issue where a 0–100% signal causes deadband, aggressive ramping, and cycling, teeing up a future demo with virtual displays. The main discussion breaks down an LMP rack P&ID with heat reclaim, low-temp hot gas defrost, suction setpoints, superheat mitigation via inversely controlled valves and plate heat exchangers, discharge pressure regulation and staged valve reopening after defrost, load shedding, oil separation strategy, and auxiliary heat exchanger quirks, then detours into cool gas defrost debate and a cutaway look at a Venturi-style “injector” device used to cool discharge gas.

CO2 LMP Racks Hot Gas & What The Heck Is A DTR Valve ?? Episode 520 VideoLMP Rack Deep Dive: Hot Gas Defrost, Superheat Mitigation & Refrigeration “Witchcraft”Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with weekend plans and a chaotic start featuring mystery music and van-recorded audio, then jump into Kevin’s hectic week swapping out 40-year-old racks and venting about painfully unserviceable EPR and valve layouts while converting controls from CPC to Danfoss. Brett outlines a common VFD control issue where a 0–100% signal causes deadband, aggressive ramping, and cycling, teeing up a future demo with virtual displays. The main discussion breaks down an LMP rack P&ID with heat reclaim, low-temp hot gas defrost, suction setpoints, superheat mitigation via inversely controlled valves and plate heat exchangers, discharge pressure regulation and staged valve reopening after defrost, load shedding, oil separation strategy, and auxiliary heat exchanger quirks, then detours into cool gas defrost debate and a cutaway look at a Venturi-style “injector” device used to cool discharge gas.

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overview PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519 Mini Pack Controller Deep Dive (PC572 + AK-PT50): CO₂ Condensing Unit Controls, Gateways, and HeadachesBrett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Kevin driving across multiple states after an unexpectedly expensive hotel stay near Springfield, Illinois. Brett gives a brief, hands-on overview of a Danfoss Mini Pack controller (PC572) used on newer single CO₂ condensing units, explaining that programming requires the AK-PT50 Windows software plus a Danfoss gateway and a data-capable micro USB cable. He walks through connecting, uploading, and navigating key menus for plant type, suction groups, compressor/VFD settings (including start speed logic), gas cooler and receiver pressure controls, oil control options, alarms, I/O configuration, and expansion modules needed for missing sensors/outputs. They note unit settings are largely in Celsius/Kelvin, warn not to program Danfoss VFDs with a laptop plugged into wall power, and conclude that these compact condensing units are cramped and would benefit from phone-accessible tools.

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overveiw PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519 Mini Pack Controller Deep Dive (PC572 + AK-PT50): CO₂ Condensing Unit Controls, Gateways, and HeadachesBrett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Kevin driving across multiple states after an unexpectedly expensive hotel stay near Springfield, Illinois. Brett gives a brief, hands-on overview of a Danfoss Mini Pack controller (PC572) used on newer single CO₂ condensing units, explaining that programming requires the AK-PT50 Windows software plus a Danfoss gateway and a data-capable micro USB cable. He walks through connecting, uploading, and navigating key menus for plant type, suction groups, compressor/VFD settings (including start speed logic), gas cooler and receiver pressure controls, oil control options, alarms, I/O configuration, and expansion modules needed for missing sensors/outputs. They note unit settings are largely in Celsius/Kelvin, warn not to program Danfoss VFDs with a laptop plugged into wall power, and conclude that these compact condensing units are cramped and would benefit from phone-accessible tools.

Big Blue Bubbles, Nylog Truths & CO₂ Oil Mysteries (w/ John Pastorello) | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Kompus open with shop-talk about chaotic workloads, out-of-town jobs colliding with local work, a thrown-out back from flipping coffin cases, and joking about “not looking” at oil sample results. They welcome guest John Pastorello, founder of Refrigeration Technologies, who shares his path from bench chemist to HVAC/refrigeration tech to contractor, then into product formulation after back issues. John explains how he developed Big Blue as a refrigerant-compatible bubble leak detector and why spray application helps identify leaks, then discusses Nylog’s origins, red (mineral oil) vs blue (POE) versions, and cautions against using Nylog alone on high-pressure CO₂ systems. They review a CO₂ oil analysis, sampling locations, possible contaminants, and why some bubble sprays can trigger electronic leak detectors due to chlorinated preservatives, and John also critiques harsh coil-cleaner chemistry and private-equity buyouts.

Big Blue Bubbles, Nylog Truths & CO₂ Oil Mysteries (w/ John Pastorello) | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastBrett Wetzel and Kevin Kompus open with shop-talk about chaotic workloads, out-of-town jobs colliding with local work, a thrown-out back from flipping coffin cases, and joking about “not looking” at oil sample results. They welcome guest John Pastorello, founder of Refrigeration Technologies, who shares his path from bench chemist to HVAC/refrigeration tech to contractor, then into product formulation after back issues. John explains how he developed Big Blue as a refrigerant-compatible bubble leak detector and why spray application helps identify leaks, then discusses Nylog’s origins, red (mineral oil) vs blue (POE) versions, and cautions against using Nylog alone on high-pressure CO₂ systems. They review a CO₂ oil analysis, sampling locations, possible contaminants, and why some bubble sprays can trigger electronic leak detectors due to chlorinated preservatives, and John also critiques harsh coil-cleaner chemistry and private-equity buyouts.

CO2 Nope, Kool Gas Defrost Operation I'm Finally Home Episode 517Cool Gas Defrost Chaos: Deer Hits, Smashed Windows, and Hussman Rack TroubleshootingBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast by begging for listener topic requests and recapping a week of pure mayhem, including Brett’s 27-hour drive home from Pennsylvania after hitting a deer and nearly blowing a tire, plus Kevin’s disaster-filled week running multiple remodel startups while a customer changed EMS controller passwords mid-day and thieves smashed van windows in a Chicago parking lot. They pivot into a hot-weather technical deep dive on Hussman cool gas defrost, contrasting it with hot gas defrost and explaining cool gas as a latent-heat process that depends on proper termination. They cover how LDR/OLDR differential control can spiral during vapor-in/vapor-out conditions, how receiver level and outlet piping height can ruin defrost by pulling liquid, why head pressure isn’t the fix, and how to troubleshoot via graphing and defrost schedules. They also stress correct defrost termination temps in winter, proper fan shutoff strategy (preferably via EMS or suction-line controls), and common Hussman retrofit pitfalls like miswired bi-flow CME solenoids, wrong internal rebuild parts, and when to gut or remove unnecessary solenoids and branch boards to reduce leaks and headaches.

CO2 Nope, Kool Gas Defrost Operation I'm Finally Home Episode 517Cool Gas Defrost Chaos: Deer Hits, Smashed Windows, and Hussman Rack TroubleshootingBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast by begging for listener topic requests and recapping a week of pure mayhem, including Brett’s 27-hour drive home from Pennsylvania after hitting a deer and nearly blowing a tire, plus Kevin’s disaster-filled week running multiple remodel startups while a customer changed EMS controller passwords mid-day and thieves smashed van windows in a Chicago parking lot. They pivot into a hot-weather technical deep dive on Hussman cool gas defrost, contrasting it with hot gas defrost and explaining cool gas as a latent-heat process that depends on proper termination. They cover how LDR/OLDR differential control can spiral during vapor-in/vapor-out conditions, how receiver level and outlet piping height can ruin defrost by pulling liquid, why head pressure isn’t the fix, and how to troubleshoot via graphing and defrost schedules. They also stress correct defrost termination temps in winter, proper fan shutoff strategy (preferably via EMS or suction-line controls), and common Hussman retrofit pitfalls like miswired bi-flow CME solenoids, wrong internal rebuild parts, and when to gut or remove unnecessary solenoids and branch boards to reduce leaks and headaches.

HCR Air Door Trials & Tribulations: Getting the Air Curtain Right (Without Losing Your Mind)In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett and Kevin swap war stories from a week of startups and an “air door extravaganza,” breaking down how to properly set up HCR air doors in open walk-in produce and dairy boxes before summer humidity wrecks everything. They explain why dirty or plugged coils, incorrect VFD frequency, misadjusted discharge louvers, missing intake screens, and uncapped or improperly trapped drains can kill airflow, spike humidity, and lead to frosting, sweating pans, and nonstop load issues. They share practical setup targets using a vane anemometer, flagging tape (or even low-ply toilet paper), and basic hand tools, plus why building envelope and store humidity control matter as much as the door itself. They also discuss night doors, coil staging, PID response, and how “lab specs” don’t survive 50,000 shoppers.

HCR Air Door Trials & Tribulations: Getting the Air Curtain Right (Without Losing Your Mind)In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett and Kevin swap war stories from a week of startups and an “air door extravaganza,” breaking down how to properly set up HCR air doors in open walk-in produce and dairy boxes before summer humidity wrecks everything. They explain why dirty or plugged coils, incorrect VFD frequency, misadjusted discharge louvers, missing intake screens, and uncapped or improperly trapped drains can kill airflow, spike humidity, and lead to frosting, sweating pans, and nonstop load issues. They share practical setup targets using a vane anemometer, flagging tape (or even low-ply toilet paper), and basic hand tools, plus why building envelope and store humidity control matter as much as the door itself. They also discuss night doors, coil staging, PID response, and how “lab specs” don’t survive 50,000 shoppers.

Gangrene, Gas Coolers & Back Pain: CO₂ Rack Chaos, Bitzer Secrets, and a Venturi “Ejector” TowerTwo exhausted hosts swap war stories from nonstop construction and CO₂ remodels: one is forced back to Pennsylvania after his father’s death to handle the estate, a rejected body donation due to gangrene, and unexpected cremation costs, while the other throws out his back wrestling a 24-foot coffin case packed with ice and fights sticking three-way drain valves dumping water. With no guest, they riff on training Kroger techs, calibration and control quirks on older Microthermal/Advancer CO₂ stores, and a little-known Bitzer service-valve center plate that directs suction gas toward the head or the windings—impacting cooling, floodback tolerance, and motor protector trips. They also compare BAC performance to others and dig into a Mack gas cooler using a Venturi setup to circulate water without a pump, plus delays, shorted case glass heaters, and general startup chaos.

Gangrene, Gas Coolers & Back Pain: CO₂ Rack Chaos, Bitzer Secrets, and a Venturi “Ejector” TowerTwo exhausted hosts swap war stories from nonstop construction and CO₂ remodels: one is forced back to Pennsylvania after his father’s death to handle the estate, a rejected body donation due to gangrene, and unexpected cremation costs, while the other throws out his back wrestling a 24-foot coffin case packed with ice and fights sticking three-way drain valves dumping water. With no guest, they riff on training Kroger techs, calibration and control quirks on older Microthermal/Advancer CO₂ stores, and a little-known Bitzer service-valve center plate that directs suction gas toward the head or the windings—impacting cooling, floodback tolerance, and motor protector trips. They also compare BAC performance to others and dig into a Mack gas cooler using a Venturi setup to circulate water without a pump, plus delays, shorted case glass heaters, and general startup chaos.

E3 Tile Chaos to Clean Startup Screens: Organizing CO₂ Racks, Layouts, and a Firmware ‘Oops’Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off this rowdy Advanced Refrigeration Podcast episode with travel talk and a quick rant about getting an E3 to communicate after an IP change, then jump into turning a messy CO₂ rack tile setup into something actually usable. They walk through creating and reorganizing tile groups (receiver, gas cooler, suction groups, oil separator, cases, etc.), explain why breaking menus down makes troubleshooting faster, and show how to build custom layout/startup screens with the key points techs actually need (pressures, temps, valve %, superheat). Along the way they discover icon management, debate the “misc/other” junk-drawer tabs, fumble through the lack of search, and even start a firmware/display update while joking about what might slam shut if it goes sideways. They finish with a quick Modbus address tip and plans for future E3 training videos.

Copeland E3 Tiles, Layout Stuff, Firmware & Atlanta Hood Rat Sh$t Episode-- 514 E3 Tile Chaos to Clean Startup Screens: Organizing CO₂ Racks, Layouts, and a Firmware ‘Oops’Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off this rowdy Advanced Refrigeration Podcast episode with travel talk and a quick rant about getting an E3 to communicate after an IP change, then jump into turning a messy CO₂ rack tile setup into something actually usable. They walk through creating and reorganizing tile groups (receiver, gas cooler, suction groups, oil separator, cases, etc.), explain why breaking menus down makes troubleshooting faster, and show how to build custom layout/startup screens with the key points techs actually need (pressures, temps, valve %, superheat). Along the way they discover icon management, debate the “misc/other” junk-drawer tabs, fumble through the lack of search, and even start a firmware/display update while joking about what might slam shut if it goes sideways. They finish with a quick Modbus address tip and plans for future E3 training videos.

Sensors and Pressure Transducers: Ranges, Power Requirements, and Troubleshooting TipsThe hosts discuss travel fatigue, long commutes, and airport TSA delays that led to canceling a flight and driving instead, then shift to field work issues during store startups and CO2 conversions, including controller communication problems caused by cabling, IT security port shutdowns from new MAC addresses, and router performance differences. The main technical focus is identifying and troubleshooting pressure transducers and temperature sensors: common signal ranges (1–6V, 0.5–4.5V, 0–5V, 0–10V, and 4–20 mA), matching transducer power requirements (5V, 12V, 24V/24–36V), and selecting correct pressure ranges for applications up to CO2 gas coolers. They cover sensor types (PT1000, 10K2 vs 10K3, 2.2K, 3K, 86.3K), wiring/offset issues with PT1000 over distance, and using linear interpolation apps to convert measured voltage to expected pressure or controller readings. They briefly mention megger use and plan to discuss CO2 leak detection and drain-related concerns next week.

Sensors and Pressure Transducers: Ranges, Power Requirements, and Troubleshooting TipsThe hosts discuss travel fatigue, long commutes, and airport TSA delays that led to canceling a flight and driving instead, then shift to field work issues during store startups and CO2 conversions, including controller communication problems caused by cabling, IT security port shutdowns from new MAC addresses, and router performance differences. The main technical focus is identifying and troubleshooting pressure transducers and temperature sensors: common signal ranges (1–6V, 0.5–4.5V, 0–5V, 0–10V, and 4–20 mA), matching transducer power requirements (5V, 12V, 24V/24–36V), and selecting correct pressure ranges for applications up to CO2 gas coolers. They cover sensor types (PT1000, 10K2 vs 10K3, 2.2K, 3K, 86.3K), wiring/offset issues with PT1000 over distance, and using linear interpolation apps to convert measured voltage to expected pressure or controller readings. They briefly mention megger use and plan to discuss CO2 leak detection and drain-related concerns next week.

CO2 Rack ‘What-If’ Simulations: Gas Cooler Control, Fan/Motor Issues, and Low-Charge BehaviorBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open Episode 511 of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast discussing busy travel, severe weather, and Brett’s final field training day, where they ran CO2 rack “what-if” simulations. They focus on gas cooler TD control via the gas cooler outlet temperature sensor, stressing proper sensor placement and comparing Danfoss limitations to other EMS options (including saturation-based control and fan lockouts). Brett describes attempts to override sensor values on a pack controller, using offsets instead, and demonstrates how warmer gas cooler outlet temperatures (or fan loss) increase flash gas, driving the BGV and medium-temp suction/compressors. They simulate an I-pressure valve stuck open and discuss pitfalls of overriding valves in multiple Danfoss screens. They troubleshoot inverted/programmable EC fan motors, documentation challenges, daisy-chained control wiring issues, and discuss low-charge behavior causing HPV and BGV to close while cases may starve. They also debate liquid piping pickup location (side vs bottom), heat exchanger effects, superheat settings, and hot gas injection setpoints versus Copeland minimum superheat guidance.

CO2 Rack ‘What-If’ Simulations: Gas Cooler Control, Fan/Motor Issues, and Low-Charge BehaviorBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open Episode 512 of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast discussing busy travel, severe weather, and Brett’s final field training day, where they ran CO2 rack “what-if” simulations. They focus on gas cooler TD control via the gas cooler outlet temperature sensor, stressing proper sensor placement and comparing Danfoss limitations to other EMS options (including saturation-based control and fan lockouts). Brett describes attempts to override sensor values on a pack controller, using offsets instead, and demonstrates how warmer gas cooler outlet temperatures (or fan loss) increase flash gas, driving the BGV and medium-temp suction/compressors. They simulate an I-pressure valve stuck open and discuss pitfalls of overriding valves in multiple Danfoss screens. They troubleshoot inverted/programmable EC fan motors, documentation challenges, daisy-chained control wiring issues, and discuss low-charge behavior causing HPV and BGV to close while cases may starve. They also debate liquid piping pickup location (side vs bottom), heat exchanger effects, superheat settings, and hot gas injection setpoints versus Copeland minimum superheat guidance.

The episode opens by thanking sponsors NDL Industries, Parker Sporlan, and Westermeyer Industries, then highlights NDL’s CO₂-rated components including ball and check valves tested up to 2030 PSI with CE/CRN/UL certifications, high-pressure copper fittings rated to 1,885 PSI, and a CO₂ service tee. Parker Sporlan promotes its Virtual Engineer tool for sizing and selecting components for A2L refrigerant projects, and Westermeyer features RDP series differential pressure monitors for oil separator filter condition, including a transcritical CO₂ model. Brett and Kevin discuss actuator torque challenges on CO₂ valves under high differential pressure, ISO 5211 actuator mounting, and the tradeoff between leak-tight sealing and actuator size. They compare CO₂ adoption in the US (~5,000 systems) versus Europe (~95,000), discuss efficiency gains from improved controls, gas cooler sizing impacts, water restrictions affecting adiabatic cooling, ejectors, split gas coolers, and a Walgreens CO₂ rack using extensive heat reclaim, geothermal, and transcritical operation at about 90 bar.

The episode opens by thanking sponsors NDL Industries, Parker Sporlan, and Westermeyer Industries, then highlights NDL’s CO₂-rated components including ball and check valves tested up to 2030 PSI with CE/CRN/UL certifications, high-pressure copper fittings rated to 1,885 PSI, and a CO₂ service tee. Parker Sporlan promotes its Virtual Engineer tool for sizing and selecting components for A2L refrigerant projects, and Westermeyer features RDP series differential pressure monitors for oil separator filter condition, including a transcritical CO₂ model. Brett and Kevin discuss actuator torque challenges on CO₂ valves under high differential pressure, ISO 5211 actuator mounting, and the tradeoff between leak-tight sealing and actuator size. They compare CO₂ adoption in the US (~5,000 systems) versus Europe (~95,000), discuss efficiency gains from improved controls, gas cooler sizing impacts, water restrictions affecting adiabatic cooling, ejectors, split gas coolers, and a Walgreens CO₂ rack using extensive heat reclaim, geothermal, and transcritical operation at about 90 bar.

On this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome new sponsor NDL Industries with guests Lucas (a Lithuania-based product manager with CO₂ rack design experience) and Amit (VP of Sales in Austin). They discuss the rapid growth of CO₂ refrigeration driven by regulations and efficiency improvements like parallel compression and ejectors, and the need for readily available parts—highlighting NDL’s US distribution hub near Memphis and 130 bar UL-rated fittings. The conversation digs into CO₂ valve and check-valve ratings (UL vs CRN testing), actuator torque challenges, and NDL’s upcoming motorized three-way valve with clearer positioning and positive stops. They also cover service valve/Service-T design to reduce brazed joints, plus real-world transcritical heat reclaim behavior and gas cooler sizing and climate impacts.

On this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome new sponsor NDL Industries with guests Lucas (a Lithuania-based product manager with CO₂ rack design experience) and Amit (VP of Sales in Austin). They discuss the rapid growth of CO₂ refrigeration driven by regulations and efficiency improvements like parallel compression and ejectors, and the need for readily available parts—highlighting NDL’s US distribution hub near Memphis and 130 bar UL-rated fittings. The conversation digs into CO₂ valve and check-valve ratings (UL vs CRN testing), actuator torque challenges, and NDL’s upcoming motorized three-way valve with clearer positioning and positive stops. They also cover service valve/Service-T design to reduce brazed joints, plus real-world transcritical heat reclaim behavior and gas cooler sizing and climate impacts.

•Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open theadvanced Refrigeration podcast with complaints about constant travel and terrible hotels, including broken blinds, bad smells, and cockroaches, plus a rule for avoiding sketchy areas. Kevin recounts a brutal week on a jobsite with an electrical contractor who miswired coils, phases, and controls, causing repeated troubleshooting, power trips, and a major shutdown when rooftop unit drainage spilled into an electrical trough. He then describes training in Chino, California on a Hussmann CO₂ rack with redundant valves, a suspected stuck oil solenoid causing overheated oil lines and high bypass activity, and how correcting it reduced compressor speed. They debate ejectors and parallel compression control, flash tank instability, oil pressure issues, controller limitations, and note miswired electric defrost heaters and CO₂-to-CO₂ heat exchanger failures.

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the advanced Refrigeration podcast with complaints about constant travel and terrible hotels, including broken blinds, bad smells, and cockroaches, plus a rule for avoiding sketchy areas. Kevin recounts a brutal week on a jobsite with an electrical contractor who miswired coils, phases, and controls, causing repeated troubleshooting, power trips, and a major shutdown when rooftop unit drainage spilled into an electrical trough. He then describes training in Chino, California on a Hussmann CO₂ rack with redundant valves, a suspected stuck oil solenoid causing overheated oil lines and high bypass activity,and how correcting it reduced compressor speed. They debate ejectors and parallel compression control, flash tank instability, oil pressure issues, controller limitations, and note miswired electric defrost heaters and CO₂-to-CO₂ heat exchanger failures.