Source: Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Industry figures are estimates that are derived from the best available figures supplied by a sample of AHRI member companies.

Many contractors (and big-box stores) try to grab customers’ attention by advertising the ubiquitous $29 tune-up. So is the $29 tune-up an effective marketing tool that can be used to beef up the customer base? Or is it a pernicious practice that lowers the bar for the HVAC industry? It all depends on your outlook.

The amount of condenser subcooling needed is system dependent. The more pressure drops — friction and static — associated with the lines and accessories that carry the liquid in the system, the more need there will be for liquid subcooling to prevent liquid line flash gas.

At 34 inches wide, the PACSlim-12 air-cooled portable air conditioner can roll through a standard doorway. The unit provides 12 tons (144,000 Btuh) of cooling. High-efficiency radial blowers with built-in variable-speed motors provide uniform airflow across the evaporator coil of the portable cooler.

Move over compression ratio, ring valve, and reciprocating compressors. There are two new terms to add to your refrigeration terminology: ‘bi-volt’ and ‘spool.’ The words relate to some of the newest developments in compressor applications.

The first comment is in response to Peter Powell’s editorial “Is A/C to Blame for D.C.’s Mess?” in the Feb. 6 issue. The second concerns what contractors are doing about the rising cost of gas.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning LLC (HSWAC) announced that the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) approved to enter into a Grant of Non-Exclusive Easement and Construction Right of Entry in Kakaako makai lands for the underground piping of the company’s seawater air conditioning project for Honolulu.

Condenser subcooling ensures that there is a liquid seal at the condenser’s bottom so the liquid line or receiver will not be fed with vapors. This condition prevents any noncondensables, like refrigerant vapor or air, from leaving the condenser’s bottom and entering the receiver or liquid line.