Tips for Technicians
Ever been stuck on a tough repair or spent way too long figuring out a system issue? We’ve all been there. This new blog series is packed with practical advice, smart solutions, and hands-on tips you can immediately use to solve problems faster and work smarter. No fluff—just the information that makes a difference when you're out in the field.
Performing proper system evacuation is a crucial step during HVACR work. While it may seem like a routine part of the job, failing to do it correctly can have serious consequences, particularly for the compressor. When moisture, air, and other contaminants are left in the system, they can cause significant damage, leading to premature compressor failure. Understanding how poor evacuation affects the compressor can help technicians avoid costly breakdowns and unnecessary replacements.
When a system isn’t properly evacuated, any moisture left behind reacts with refrigerant and compressor oil to form acids. These acids gradually corrode internal components, breaking down the oil’s ability to lubricate moving parts effectively. As lubrication deteriorates, metal-to-metal contact increases, causing excessive friction, heat buildup, and wear on crucial components like the crankshaft, pistons, and bearings. Over time, this leads to severe mechanical failure and premature compressor burnout.
Another major issue caused by improper evacuation is overheating. When non-condensable gases like air are trapped in the system, they take up space that should be occupied by refrigerant. This reduces system efficiency and causes the compressor to work harder than it should. As a result, the pressure in the system increases, generating excessive heat. Over time, this heat leads to breakdown of the oil and internal damage to the compressor. In the worst cases, this can result in a complete compressor burnout.
When a compressor is working harder due to improper evacuation, which leads to higher pressure and poor refrigerant flow, the system will draw more current. This increased current can cause the compressor to wear out more quickly, as it has to work harder to circulate refrigerant. Additionally, higher current leads to greater power consumption, making the system more costly to operate. Over time, the increased strain on the compressor reduces its lifespan and affects system efficiency.
In the end, taking the time to properly evacuate an HVACR system is crucial for protecting the compressor and ensuring the longevity of the entire system. Skipping or rushing this step can lead to costly repairs, unnecessary downtime, and premature compressor failure. By understanding the importance of proper evacuation and following best practices, technicians can avoid these issues, improve system efficiency, and deliver more reliable results for their customers. A little extra care in the evacuation process can go a long way in keeping systems running smoothly and saving you from expensive repairs down the line.
