Understanding Electrical, Controls and Microprocessors in HVAC
Understanding electrical, controls, and microprocessors is key to successful HVAC diagnostics and repair. Fortunately, free professional help is available from equipment manufacturers.
According to HVAC industry experts, 75-80% of service calls involve electrical. A bad capacitor, a failed contactor, a thermostat that no longer functions properly, or perhaps a malfunctioning condenser or blower motor, for example. HVAC technicians need to understand how electrical power, controls, and microprocessors work, and how to diagnose and repair electrical problems when they arise.
HVAC equipment is becoming more and more technologically sophisticated, and functions that are meant to make things easier can complicate installation, diagnostics and repair if and HVAC technician is not properly trained. For example, electrically-commutated motors, or ECMs, convert single-phase power into three-phase DC power, employing an internal microprocessor to help maintain constant torque and speed control (similar to VFDs). But many technicians don’t have a clear understanding of how ECMs work, or how to troubleshoot or program one.
In many cases, there are free, readily-available resources made available by HVAC equipment manufacturers who invest large sums of money on training videos, OEM manuals, and other online documentation. A manufacturers’ sales largely depend on the proper operation of their products and are thus invested in making sure they function properly. In-depth, highly informative training videos are especially helpful and can be found on manufacturer websites or directly searched on YouTube. (Regard videos and other information that do not originate with the manufacturer with caution, as the information may not be accurate).
Owners should designate some training videos as required viewing for their HVAC technicians to improve diagnostic ability, increase service call profitability, and ensure satisfied customers and referrals.
About E.P. Homiek
E.P. Homiek Sheet Metal Fabrication & HVAC Supply, with two convenient locations in Lakewood, NJ and Union, NJ, provides one- to two-day turnaround on all residential and light commercial ductwork, as well as one- to two-hour emergency fabrication service, rapid delivery, and competitive prices. HVAC parts, supplies, and equipment lines include Goodman, Honeywell, Bryant, Bradford White, Crown Boiler, Daikin, Weil-McLain, Sea Breeze, Generac, Fantech, ZM, A.O. Smith, Hart & Cooley, Malco, Mueller, and many more.
