Episode 376. Adiabatic Coolers and Cooler Innovations with Rob Ochs of Recold

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In this episode, we're talking with Rob Ochs of Recold to unpack his long and successful refrigeration career - from rack refrigeration, to global sales and adiabatic coolers. He shrares practical tips for technicians and engineers working with modern systems, including CO2. Rob also covers career lessons, communication advice and troubleshooting tips for technicians to help reduce callbacks and make smarter equipment decisions. This episode was recorded live at the 2026 AHR Expo.

(0:40) Rob Ochs' Career Path

(2:09) Navigating Career Transitions in Refrigeration

(5:49) Why Refrigeration Techs Should Learn Design

(10:29) Condenser and Gas Cooler Sizing 101

(14:34) Nameplates, Rack Summaries, and Finding Mismatches

(20:17) Critical Charge vs DX

(22:52) Finding Mentors

(24:06) Condenser Fan Strategies

(29:11) Latent Gas Defrost Explained

(33:36) Adiabatic vs Air Gas Coolers

(39:44) Pad Efficiency and Seasonal Pad Removal

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Recold

AHR Expo

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