The Refrigeration Mentor Podcast

Trevor Matthews
  • 5.0 (34)
  • Education
  • Weekly

This podcast is all about training, education and mentorship for commercial refrigeration and HVAC professionals. My goal to help you develop your knowledge and skills, to master the art of refrigeration. I will have expert guests from around the world joining us. We will have different conversations on technical topic's like system troubleshooting, supermarket refrigeration and CO2 refrigeration. Featuring technicians and engineers to manufacturers and many other industry expert join us to share their knowledge and wisdom. I will have conversations about mental health, mindset, and personal and professional development. My goal is to help you become 1% better than yesterday. Let's get a conversation going!

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 439. Understanding Hot Gas Defrost

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses  Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here: www.refrigerationmentor.com/hub  In this conversation, we'll break down how hot gas defrost works. Hot gas defrost involves much more than simply sending hot gas through an evaporator to melt ice. We'll discuss pressure differentials, defrost differential regulator (DDR) valves, suction stops, liquid return paths, and the importance of defrost termination and drip time. We'll also talk about why technicians need to understand the complete sequence of operation to better diagnose recurring defrost problems instead of repeatedly treating the symptoms. In this episode, we cover: (00:48) Hot Gas Defrost Basics (02:54)  Defrost Differential Regulator (03:37) Reverse Hot Gas Flow (05:25) Timing Termination Drip (06:36) Pressure Differential Setup (08:37) Alternate OLRD Method (09:21) Map The Full Sequence (11:11) Relays Testing Troubleshooting (12:18) Common Defrost Failure Causes (13:48) Learning By Following Piping Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 67. Defrosting CO2 Systems Using Reverse Hot Gas Defrost Method with LT Booster Side Heat Episode 395. Basics of Refrigeration: Importance of Revisiting the Fundamentals

  2. 3d ago

    Episode 438. Basics of Transcritical CO2 Booster Systems

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses  Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here: www.refrigerationmentor.com/hub  In this episode, we're breaking down the fundamentals of transcritical CO2 booster systems. We'll walk through the refrigeration cycle, from compression and gas cooling to the high-pressure valve, flash tank, expansion valves, and evaporators. We'll also discuss the importance of understanding system components, knowing what normal operating conditions look like, and being able to explain how a system works before reaching for diagnostic tools. Whether you're new to CO2 refrigeration or have years of experience, this episode reinforces how a strong understanding of the fundamentals can make complex troubleshooting easier and help you diagnose problems faster and more confidently. In this episode, we cover: (00:48) CO2 Refrigeration Basics (02:32) Refrigeration Cycle Essentials (03:25) Booster System Components (07:40) High Pressure Valves (08:50) Flash Tank And Liquid Feed (12:37) EEVs And Evaporator Heat (15:17) Low Temp Stage Compression (18:03) Using Normal Operation Comparables to Troubleshoot Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 73. Tips And Tricks When Working On CO2 Transcritical Systems Episode 227. Getting to Know Transcritical CO2 Supermarket Refrigeration Systems with Kevin Mullis Episode 299. Basic Refrigeration 101

  3. Oct 21

    Episode 437. Step-by-Step Walkthrough of a Refrigeration Rack (Lessons From Chillventa 2026)

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses  Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here: www.refrigerationmentor.com/hub  In this episode, we'll discuss how to systematically walk through a refrigeration rack, trace piping, understand compressor and oil management systems, and ask the right questions about components, controls, and sequences of operation. We'll also dive into how refrigeration technicians can accelerate their learning by attending industry trade shows, like Chillventa, to connect directly with manufacturer technical experts, and learn how complex refrigeration systems actually operate. This episode offers a practical approach to developing deeper technical knowledge, reducing troubleshooting time, and becoming a more confident refrigeration technician. In this episode, we discuss: (00:48) Chillventa Expo Recap (04:12) Tips for Learning Refrigeration Faster (07:28) Piping (11:08) Oil Separator Basics (12:36) Oil Management Sequence (19:14) High Pressure To Flash Tank (21:57) Flash Gas And Parallel Compression (27:23) Questions To Ask OEMs (32:25) Attending Industry Events Helpful Links & Resources: Website: Chillventa Episode 413. My 4-Pillar Framework to Learn CO2 Refrigeration Faster Episode 357. How To Network & Meet the Right People Episode 72. Why You Need To Head To Events Like The HVACR Training Symposium

  4. Oct 15

    Episode 436. Mechanical vs. Electronic Expansion Valves: Which Is Better?

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses  Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here: www.refrigerationmentor.com/hub  In this episode, we explore the differences between mechanical thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs) and electronic expansion valves (EEVs). I'll explain when each option makes sense in commercial refrigeration, the advantages of electronic valves and the learning curve that comes with electronic controllers. Whether you're experienced with mechanical systems or just starting to work with electronics, this episode offers practical advice for building your skills, improving system performance, and staying relevant as refrigeration technology advances. In this episode, we cover: (00:48) Mechanical vs Electronic Debate (02:21) Where EEVs Shine (04:53) Controllers and Case Wiring (05:43) Mindset for Learning Electronics (06:40) Utilizing Manuals First (08:03) TXV Setup vs EEV Setup (09:17) Seasonal Efficiency and CO2 (11:08) Diagnosing Root Causes Before Swapping Parts (13:46) How to Start with Electronics Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 353. Understanding TX Valves (Tips and Troubleshooting) Episode 336. Fast Track to Learning Electronic Valves & Controllers Episode 389. TXV & Superheat 101 with Andrew Freeburg

  5. Oct 12

    Episode 435. Owning Your Mistakes: How Great Refrigeration Technicians Build Trust

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here In this conversation, we're talking about why owning your mistakes is one of the most important qualities of a great refrigeration technician. Drawing on my own experiences in the field, I'll cover why trying to cover up mistakes creates bigger problems, damage relationships and impede your development. From burning out a vacuum pump to correcting misinformation about voltage, I'll share real-world examples of how honesty, accountability and asking for help can accelerate learning and build trust with service managers, coworkers, and customers. In this episode, we discuss: (01:30) Stop Covering Mistakes (02:55) VFD Voltage Mix Up (05:03) Vac Pump No Oil (07:27) Tendency of Overnight Shift Mistakes (07:54) Liquid Floodback Dangers (10:09) Learning From Mistakes (12:09) Building Trust With Customers Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 190. Turning Mistakes Into Lessons and Accelerating Your Refrigeration Career with Andrew Freeburg Episode 361. How to Bring More Value to Customers Episode 387. 5 Things You Need to Develop to Be A Better Refrigeration Technician

  6. Oct 8

    Episode 433: CO2 High Pressure Valves: How They Work

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here In this episode, we're breaking down how CO2 high pressure valves (HPV) work. We'll cover basic operation and design, as well as tips on proper settings, sensor placement and protection, fine-tuning for climate, and using trend graphs to diagnose issues. We'll also discuss the role of an HPV in receiver/flash tank protection versus gas cooler control across transcritical, transition, subcritical, and holdback modes.  In this episode, we discuss: 00:48 High Pressure Valve Basics 05:07 Gas Cooler Sensor Setup 06:58 Receiver Pressure Protection 12:26 Gas Cooler Control Modes 16:48 Winter Flooding Holdback 19:39 Trend Graph Diagnostics Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 318. Designing High Pressure Valves for Summer Heat and Winter Challenges with Chris Griffiths Episode 144. Troubleshooting CO2 High Pressure Valves Using Trend Graphs with the CAREL Boss System Episode 58. CO2 High Pressure Valves, Flash Gas Bypass and Ejectors controlled by a pRack300T

  7. Oct 8

    Episode 434. Refrigerant Glide

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here In this episode, we break down how glide refrigerants behave and how technicians should use bubble point and dew point when setting up and troubleshooting refrigeration components. I'll explain refrigerant glide, how blended refrigerants behave differently from pure refrigerants, and how to use a pressure temperature (PT) chart to understand what is actually happening inside the system. We also walk through TX valve setup, superheat, subcooling, head pressure controls, EPRs, and common problems that can occur when the wrong temperature reference is used. The episode also highlights why understanding the properties of blended refrigerants is critical for protecting compressors and ensuring long-term system reliability. In this episode, we discuss: (00:47) Understanding Refrigerant Glide (02:00) Bubble Point vs. Dew Point (04:00) TX Valves (05:00) Using A PT Chart To Check Glide Refrigerants (06:00) Setting Up A TX Valve With Bubble Point And Dew Point (08:24) When To Use Dew Point On The Low Side (09:00) Bubble Point For Head Pressure Controls (10:00) Using Bubble Point For Subcooling (11:00) Setting Up EPRs With Blended Refrigerants (13:00) Understanding Compressor Superheat (14:00) Protecting Compressors From Saturated Vapor (15:00) Blended Refrigerant Properties Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 353. Understanding TX Valves (Tips and Troubleshooting) Episode 389. TXV & Superheat 101 with Andrew Freeburg

  8. Oct 2

    Episode 432. Workplace Injuries: Real Life Stories and Safety Lessons

    Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here In this episode, I'm sharing real world stories of workplace injuries in the refrigeration industry and safety lessons we teach at Refrigeration Mentor. These include liquid refrigerant burns, ladder and roof access risks, brazing hazards, chemical exposure and inadequate PPE, even fatigue-related driving dangers. We'll discuss safety measures like job hazard assessments, using proper protective equipment and ventilation, strapping ladders correctly, and the right to refuse unsafe work. I'll also give a preview of what's to come inside Refrigeration Mentor Academy and what we offer to help refrigeration technicians build confidence and improve troubleshooting. In this episode, we cover: 01:34 Refrigerant Burns  03:08 Ladder and Roof Access Risks 06:08 Brazing Fumes and Store Safety 08:29 Fatigue and Driving Dangers 10:08 Heavy Lifting and Roof Rigging Helpful Links & Resources: Episode 378. Field Stories: Compressor Failure, Case Freeze-Up Troubleshooting, and Electrical Safety Episode 355. An Inside Look at How We Design Our Training (The Refrigeration Mentor Playbook) Episode 250. Service Call Stories and Troubleshooting Tips with Andrew Freeburg

See All (447)

5
out of 5
34 Ratings

About

This podcast is all about training, education and mentorship for commercial refrigeration and HVAC professionals. My goal to help you develop your knowledge and skills, to master the art of refrigeration. I will have expert guests from around the world joining us. We will have different conversations on technical topic's like system troubleshooting, supermarket refrigeration and CO2 refrigeration. Featuring technicians and engineers to manufacturers and many other industry expert join us to share their knowledge and wisdom. I will have conversations about mental health, mindset, and personal and professional development. My goal is to help you become 1% better than yesterday. Let's get a conversation going!

Information

You Might Also Like