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HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

Coburn's Tech Services

HVAC Tech Tips

Deep-dive technical guidance for diagnosing,     
servicing, and optimizing HVAC systems.

HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Stop Killing Compressors with Liquid

by Mike Smith

July 27, 2026

HVAC Tech Tip: Stop Killing Compressors with LiquidScroll compressors were once marketed as capable of handling small amounts of liquid refrigerant. That claim is completely outdated. Any liquid in the suction line is drawn directly into the scroll p...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Wiring an RDS to a Non-Communicating Furnace with an ECM Motor Issue

by Mike Smith

July 01, 2026

HVAC Tech Tip: How to Properly Wire an RDS UnitProper wiring of a Remote Duct Sensor (RDS) is essential for maintaining accurate system communication, optimal climate control, and efficient HVAC operation. This step-by-step guide walks you through te...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Superheat & Subcool Reference Chart

by Mike Smith

May 27, 2026

June 2026 Tech Tip: Understanding Superheat & SubcoolingProperly measuring superheat and subcooling is essential for evaluating HVAC system efficiency, diagnosing metering device issues, and ensuring correct refrigerant charge. Use this quick ref...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Wiring a Legacy Thermostat with Communicating Outdoor and Indoor Equipment

by Mike Smith

May 01, 2026

Wiring Legacy Thermostats: Tips for HVAC TechniciansRetrofitting older or legacy thermostat controls requires a clear understanding of low-voltage wiring color codes and terminal designations. Learn key best practices for identifying control wires, h...
HVAC HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

Understanding AFUE: What It Means for Homeowners and Why It Matters

December 01, 2025

Understanding AFUE: What It Means for Homeowners and Why It MattersBy Rick Kincel, Coburn’s HVAC Tech Services Manager      Voted One of the Top 25 Most Influential Instructors/Trainers of 2026When choosing a residential...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Calculating Total Heat Transferred

June 02, 2025

How do you prove that a system is actually delivering its rated cooling or heating capacity? The answer lies in thermodynamics. In this field guide, we break down the total heat formula and show you exactly how to measure sensible and latent heat ch...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Calculating CFM in the field

June 02, 2025

Proper airflow is the backbone of high-efficiency HVAC performance, but you don't always need an expensive flow hood or velometer to measure it. In this quick guide, learn the precise formulas and step-by-step setup required to calculate Cubic Feet p...
HVAC: Tech Tips & Charts

HVAC Tech Tip: Are the tools you count on for accuracy, accurate?

June 01, 2025

In the HVAC/R industry, your tools are your eyes and ears. But when was the last time you actually verified their accuracy? Working with miscalibrated multimeters, manometers, or temperature probes can lead to misdiagnosis, wasted hours, and costly c...
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