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Taking the Temperature on HVACR

Danfoss Climate Solutions

Tune in to the best podcast in the cooling industry. Join host Jamie Kitchen who will cover a wide range of HVAC-R topics, from hands-on tips to general industry trends. You’ll learn how to save time on startup & commissioning, reduce call backs and get the best performance from a system. Want to find out if your airflow is correct or how to determinet quickly? You’ve come to the right place.

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21 episodes
monthly
Avg 42 min
English

Episodes 21

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September 28 · 49 min
Hidden heat: Humidity, dew point, and why air conditioning is about more than cooling
In this episode of Taking the Temperature, Jorg flips roles and interviews Jamie and John about the “middle child” of HVAC: humidity. They unpack dew point, dry bulb vs. wet bulb, relative vs. absolute humidity, why 25°C can feel amazing or miserable, and how air conditioning, dehumidifiers, evaporative coolers, and chilled-water systems really manage hidden heat. Along the way, they share real-world stories—from fogged glasses and soggy shirts to freezing supermarkets and damp basements—and explain how poor humidity control can lead to discomfort, inefficiency, and even mold inside your walls.
August 27 · 38 min
Modern heat pumps: From cold climates comes comfort heating
In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVACR, host Jamie Kitchen sits down with Matthieu Stoll to explore how modern heat pumps are reshaping residential, multifamily, and commercial heating. They break down what a heat pump is, how it differs from traditional air conditioning and boilers, and why today’s technology can reliably provide comfort even at -20°C, covering comfort heat pumps for space heating and domestic hot water, the importance of water temperatures, lift, and compression ratio for efficiency, and how vapor injection enables low-ambient operation. The conversation also looks at emerging microchannel heat exchangers, the shift to new A2L and natural refrigerants like propane and CO₂, and how policy, energy prices, and decarbonization goals are accelerating heat pump adoption across Europe and North America—offering a clear,
July 29 · 42 min
Stranger Things: HVAC edition
In this episode of “Taking the Temperature of HVAC,” Jamie Kitchen is joined by John Broughton and Jörg Saar to swap their strangest refrigeration and HVAC stories from the field—from diagnosing systems by sound and touch, to mystery refrigerants, water-filled chillers, oversized solenoid valves, and wildly improvised installations. Along the way they revisit old-school practices with legacy refrigerants, discuss how design oversights and poor evacuation procedures can wreck systems, and highlight what these “Stranger Things” taught them about troubleshooting, safety, and the evolution of best practices in the industry.
June 25 · 50 min
TXV vs EEV: Taking the Temperature of modern refrigeration control
In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVAC, Jamie Kitchen sits down with John and Jorg to unpack the real-world differences between TXVs (thermal expansion valves) and EEVs (electronic/electric expansion valves) in commercial refrigeration and air conditioning. They break down how each valve controls superheat, the balance of forces inside a TXV, and why concepts like pump down, minimum stable superheat (MSS), and maximum operating pressure (MOP) matter for system reliability and compressor protection. Along the way, they share field stories about liquid hammer, early electronic controllers, variable-speed compressors, and why EEVs offer powerful flexibility—but can’t rescue a poorly designed system.
May 22 · 48 min
The hidden costs of oversized HVAC equipment
Oversizing HVAC and refrigeration equipment might seem like the “safe” choice—but it can quietly destroy efficiency, product quality, and component life. In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVACR, Jamie Kitchen, John Broughton, and Jörg Saar discuss how to properly size compressors, evaporators, condensers, valves, and piping; what really happens when systems are too big or too small; and why balance points, humidity control, and ambient conditions matter more than most people think. Packed with real-world examples—from flower rooms and walk‑in coolers to grain drying and variable‑speed systems—this conversation shows why “don’t oversize your equipment” is more than just a rule of thumb.
April 22 · 38 min
Walk-in refrigeration systems explained
In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVACR, Jamie Kitchen is joined by John Broughton and Jorg Saar to break down the essentials of cold rooms, walk-in boxes, and refrigeration design, covering everything from the difference between holding and blast freezing, to airflow, evaporator placement, refrigerant choices, safety considerations, defrost strategies, and practical installation challenges. Packed with real-world examples and expert insights, this episode offers a clear and engaging look at what it really takes to design and operate efficient walk-in refrigeration systems.
March 25 · 51 min
From ice harvesting to Low-GWP refrigerants
In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVAC, Jamie Kitchen sits down with John Broughton and Jorg Saar to explore the fascinating history of refrigerants—from harvested ice, water, ammonia, and CO2 to CFCs, HCFCs, HFCs, and today’s low-GWP alternatives. The conversation traces how refrigeration evolved from ice houses and early evaporative cooling to mechanical systems in homes, factories, ships, and supermarkets. Along the way, the team shares stories from the field, reflects on the rise and fall of refrigerants like R-12, R-22, R-11, and R-502, and discusses why the industry is once again adapting to a new generation of refrigerants, including propane, CO2, R-32, and A2Ls. It’s a practical, entertaining look at how the past continues to shape the future of HVAC—and why understanding refrigerant history matters more than ever.
February 25 · 38 min
Turning refrigeration heat into comfort
In this episode of Taking the Temperature of HVACR, host Jamie Kitchen joins Jorg and John to discuss how supermarkets can reclaim “waste heat” from their refrigeration systems to tackle humidity issues (foggy glass doors, dripping condensate, slippery floors) while improving comfort and efficiency. They explain how compressor heat can be reused for reheat during dehumidification, domestic hot water, and even full space heating—sometimes eliminating the need for gas boilers—then share a real-world example of a European supermarket that heats itself year-round and can export surplus heat to a district heating network.
January 27 · 41 min
CO₂ vs A2L refrigerants: Choosing the right refrigerant
Host Jamie Kitchen and guest Jorg Saar compare CO₂ with A2L/HFO-HFC blends and A3 options like propane (R290), explaining why CO₂ isn’t new, what transcritical operation means, and why CO₂ can excel at heat recovery (especially in supermarkets). They also cover the tradeoffs—high pressures and added complexity for CO₂ versus flammability considerations for A2Ls/hydrocarbons—concluding there’s no one-size-fits-all refrigerant; the best choice depends on the application.
Dec 23, 2025 · 37 min
Turbocor®: The technology behind oil free cooling
In this episode of Taking the Temperature on HVAC/R, host Jamie Kitchen talks with Jason Kollman (Danfoss Turbocor®) about what makes oil-free, magnetic-bearing centrifugal compressors unique—from Turbocor’s origins to how the “computer-like” compressor design delivers high efficiency, stable performance over time, and low maintenance. They cover real-world application and commissioning considerations, training and service support, new remote monitoring via Turbocor® Cloud, and where the technology is heading—especially for data center cooling, wider ambient operation, lower-GWP refrigerants, and emerging opportunities like heat recovery and heat pumps.
Nov 25, 2025 · 35 min
Controls vs safety - Key differences in function and expectations
In this episode, our host, Jamie Kitchen sits down with Jorg and John to unpack the real difference between pressure controls and pressure safety devices in HVACR. From fan cycling and pump-down controls to high-pressure cut-outs and manual resets, they share real-world stories from the field—what fails, why it fails, and how proper controls and safety can prevent expensive damage and dangerous situations. Perfect for technicians and engineers who want a clearer, practical understanding of how pressure switches really protect a system.
Oct 27, 2025 · 29 min
How individual room controls are changing comfort and efficiency
Host Jamie Kitchen welcomes product expert Christina Kjar to discuss how individual room controls are transforming the way we heat our homes and buildings. They dive into the differences between mechanical and electronic thermostatic radiator valves, the growing role of underfloor heating, and the real-world benefits of balanced, efficient systems. Discover why personalized comfort isn’t just a luxury — it’s the key to smarter, more sustainable heating.
Sep 24, 2025 · 44 min
Stationary vs. mobile refrigeration: Design challenges
Host Jamie Kitchen is joined by regulars Jorg and John to unpack how HVACR changes when the system moves. From vibration, oil management, and compressor mounting to multi-temp trailers, EPRs, and face-seal serviceability, they tour trucks, buses, trains, and reefer containers (yes, how ships power them). You’ll hear diesel vs. battery drives, why hoses mean more filter-drier swaps, and practical do’s & don’ts for manifolded racks—a lively, nerdy ride through the cold chain.
Aug 25, 2025 · 46 min
Heat Exchangers in action: From Data Centers to HVACR
On this episode of Taking the Temperature on HVACR, host Jamie Kitchen welcomes heat exchanger expert Mark Davydov for a deep dive into one of the industry’s most essential technologies. From the surprising role of plate heat exchangers in data centers and district heating to their everyday impact in breweries and beyond, Mark shares fascinating stories, lessons learned, and practical insights. Whether you’re an HVACR pro or just curious about the hidden tech that keeps our world running, this conversation delivers both expertise and entertainment.
Jul 24, 2025 · 42 min
Compressor types and what they are designed for
In this episode of "Taking the Temperature on HVAC," Jamie, John, and Jorg explore the different types of compressors offered by Danfoss, including reciprocating, scroll, screw, and Turbocor compressors. They discuss the operational differences between these compressors, such as the pulsation in reciprocating compressors versus the smooth operation of scroll compressors, and the factors influencing compressor selection, like efficiency, temperature range, and application needs. The hosts emphasize that choosing the right compressor depends on the specific system requirements, from low-temperature refrigeration to high-capacity heat pumps, providing valuable insights for HVAC professionals looking to optimize their systems.
Jun 25, 2025 · 46 min
The ins and outs of Pressure Regulators
In this episode of Taking the Temperature on HVAC, host Jamie Kitchen is joined by John Broughton and Jorg Saar to explore the critical role of pressure regulators in refrigeration systems. They discuss how condenser, evaporator, and case pressure regulators help maintain system stability across varying loads and ambient conditions, ensuring proper pressure differentials for metering devices and protecting compressors from overload. The conversation covers common misconceptions, design considerations like receiver sizing and hot gas bypass, and compares the use of crankcase pressure regulators versus MOP valves. Emphasizing the importance of system knowledge, the episode highlights how these components work together to ensure reliable, efficient HVAC operation.
May 26, 2025 · 56 min
The role of pressure on making things cold
Welcome to "Taking the Temperature on HVACR," hosted by Jamie Kitchen. In this insightful episode, Jamie is joined by regular guests, Jorg Saar and John Broughton, as they delve into the intricate relationship between temperature and pressure within refrigeration systems. The discussion covers the fundamentals of the refrigeration cycle, emphasizing how temperature differences drive heat transfer, and the role of components like evaporators and compressors. Explore the fascinating dynamics of vapor compression and learn how thermodynamics governs the operation of HVAC systems. Whether you're an industry professional or simply curious about how your fridge works, this episode offers valuable insights into the science behind keeping things cool.
Apr 25, 2025 · 54 min
Beyond the Setpoint: What do we control in a refrigeration system?
While the space temperature in a refrigerated space may be used to control the refrigeration system, there is a lot more going on that we must also take control of. The thermostat initiates a pump down cycle to control/limit refrigerant migration to protect the compressor and enable defrost to occur more rapidly. Control over the temperature, humidity, velocity and direction of air leaving the unit cooler must be maintained to ensure that product is not dried out or frozen even when stored in temperatures above freezing. How product is placed within the cooler or freezer must be controlled so that sufficient airflow through the space and around the product occurs for quick and efficient heat removal.
Mar 25, 2025 · 26 min
Hydronic Balancing in Multifamily buildings
In this episode of Taking the Temperature on HVACR, host Jamie Kitchen welcomes special guest Maiken Hansen to explore the world of hydronic balancing. They discuss how unbalanced heating systems in multi-family buildings can lead to cold tenants, noisy radiators, and high energy bills—and how dynamic balancing solutions can improve comfort, reduce complaints, and cut energy costs by up to 25%. Whether you're a facility manager, building owner, or just curious about smarter heating solutions, this episode dives into the challenges and benefits of efficient hydronic balancing.
Feb 25, 2025 · 35 min
Noise vibration in commercial refrigeration and AC systems
Join Jamie and John in this episode of Taking the Temperature on HVAC-R as they tackle noise and vibration in commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Discover the causes, impacts, and practical solutions to enhance acoustic performance and system efficiency. Perfect for cooling installers looking to optimize their installations and meet customer expectations!

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