Let's be honest, there's a lot to learn about refrigerant compressors. As a service technician or anyone who works in the HVAC field knows, thorough training is not only helpful but oftentimes mandatory to get the job done. Education and training can help solidify your status in the field as you are better able to service customers with your new found knowledge and skill.

Additional refrigerant compressors education and training will benefit not only the business but also the individual employee as it opens up opportunities for career advancement. By completing training, the employee definitely shows a dedication to the field by taking the time and effort to participate in ongoing training.

Consider the following:

1. Refrigeration compressor information may be best learned through an apprenticeship program. In the HVAC field, it's usually five years of on-the-job training and a certain number of classroom hours, too.

2. Keeping up on current information about refrigerant compressors should be a top priority as technological advances are constantly changing.

3. Along with the most highly advanced systems, you'll also need to be knowledgeable about used refrigeration compressors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Review refrigerant compressor manufacturers manuals and other publications

For answers to technical questions, it may be best to consult a manual straight from the manufacturer. Have the proper books on hand to study and then also to use as a quick reference guide.

I recommend: Elite Software Development offers an e-book called "Refrigeration Fundamentals for HVACR Technicians" by Jim Johnson. Download the HC Refrigerant Products Training Manual straight from the manufacturer Northcutt.

Find online training on refrigerant industrial compressors

With the advent of the web, it's entirely possible to receive quality education and training right at your desktop. Many different companies provide online seminars, or webinars, which can be witnessed live or downloaded after the fact. Training by this method can be both extensive and beneficial.

I recommend: Air Conditioning Contractors of America provides several seminars each month. Click the online training link (toward the bottom of the page) at Aces A/C Supply North for free training for dealers.

Attend live training from refrigerant compression companies and other sources

Many people consider hands-on training the best way to learn. The live seminar can help you learn and understand concepts related to refrigerant compressors in a way that's up close and personal. Some training may even qualify as continuing education hours if needed for certification or licensing purposes.

I recommend: Check out the seminar topics at Toromont Industries including basic and advanced refrigeration, refrigeration maintenance and safety. American Trainco offers training on principles, components, systems, troubleshooting, maintenance and operating.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  As a refrigerant compressor dealer, carefully contemplate which seminars you attend. Look for programs with quality topics and professional presenters who will give unbiased information.

Here is a some information about refrigerant compressors that you may not know: Refrigerant compressors are not just used for refrigerators. They are also used in air conditioning systems and for heat pumping. In fact, refrigerant compressors are used in a wide range of industries.

There are several types of refrigerant industrial compressors. You must decide which of the following types will best suit your needs:

1. Screw refrigerant compressor. Screw compressors have very low vibration and, as a result, make very little noise.

2. Scroll refrigerant compressor. Scroll compressors have a lower leakage rate than other compressors.

3. Reciprocating refrigerant compressor, also called a piston compressor. This compressor achieves high pressure levels and is typically used for commercial purposes.

Once you have determined which type of compressor you need, you can start shopping around for the best prices. Be sure to check websites for offers of free shipping when deciding between companies from which to buy compressors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy from refrigerant compressor manufacturers

Purchasing directly from the manufacturer affords businesses the opportunity to discuss having customized refrigerant compressors manufactured. If you require pressures greater than standard models can output, ask if your needs can be accommodated.

I recommend: Emerson Climate Technologies is a scroll refrigerant compressor manufacturer. Hartford Compressors and Exterran manufacture screw and reciprocating compressors.

Locate refrigerant compressor dealers that also provide repair services

Most refrigerant compression companies and dealers that sell products will also service them. Regular maintenance is required to keep compression machinery running at optimum efficiency. You can probably even purchase a service contract for maintenance and emergency repairs.

I recommend: Cal Supply Company will sell and repair compressors. If you have someone on staff who can handle the repairs, look for companies that can supply you with spare parts for your compressors. National Compressor Exchange and Norwalk Compressor Company sell compressors and spare parts.

Buy used refrigeration compressors

Consider buying used refrigeration compressors if you can get a warranty on parts or service for at least one year. Used refrigerators can save you a lot of money, and if they have been remanufactured, they will be able to serve you for several years.

I recommend: Aresco cleans and reconditions all of the refrigerant compressors it sells. The refrigeration compressors for sale by Aresco is backed by a one-year parts warranty. Brainerd Compressor remanufactures reciprocating compressors. City Compressor Remanufacturers is another company that sells remanufactured refrigerant compressors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you aren't sure which refrigerant compressor is the right type for you, call a refrigerant compressor dealer and ask. All the dealer will need to know is what you want to do with the compressor, and he or she will be able to steer you toward the right product.