Dr Pearson on Refrigeration...

The complete series of columns written by Star’s Group Managing Director Dr. Andy Pearson for ASHRAE Journal, beginning with the first column published in March 2012 to the very latest.

The column is published each month in the Journal and covers topics spanning from refrigeration basics to heat pumps and even fitting tributes to the industry’s most indispensable pioneers who have sadly departed. Each column is written in an offbeat and humorous style minus any head-scratching technical jargon, meaning they are enjoyable for anyone to read – not just fridge engineers!

What’s in a Name?

How naming conventions shape our understanding of refrigerants, risks, and public perception.

The Magnificent Seven

Seven guiding principles for designing refrigeration systems that perform reliably and efficiently.

Risk

Balancing safety, regulation, and practicality when working with higher-risk refrigerants.

Blowing in the Wind

Examining fan performance, energy use, and control strategies in real installations.

Under Pressure

Understanding pressure-related failures and how thoughtful design prevents dangerous surprises.

An Inside Job

Uncovering internal leaks that quietly steal performance from otherwise well-designed plants.

The Future of Data

How emerging data tools reshape engineering decisions, responsibilities, and long-term refrigeration design.

Taking the Pledge

Exploring international commitments to refrigerant transition, climate responsibility, and practical implementation.

Be More Hippocratic

Applying a “do no harm” mindset to engineering decisions and system design.

Scientists Not Baffled

Clarifying a classic experiment to show science is careful, not confused.

Staying Tight

How leak-tight design safeguards efficiency, safety, and compliance in modern refrigeration systems.

Getting Tight

Introducing the idea of “tightness” as a measurable design and maintenance target.