For courses in Principles of HVAC/R or Electricity for HVAC/R at the technician level. Ideal for students who already have a knowledge of the basics of the refrigeration cycle and heating components, this very practical approach to electricity introduces them to the unique wiring diagrams, methods, technician short-cuts, and potential pitfalls they will encounter on the job as service technicians. It begins with a discussion of general electricity and electrical circuits, and then moves quickly into explaining wiring diagrams and the new devices that are encountered with each new diagram. Gradual introduction of various electrical devicesFocuses on one or two devices at a time. Uses wiring diagrams for HVAC and refrigeration systems, and explains each new device or function as it is encountered in the wiring diagram. Transforms the discussion of each device from an academic exercise to one with an application readily at hand. Optional Advanced Concepts sectionsHighlights theoretical concepts and mathematical explanations. Allows more advanced students to go into greater depth on some subjects, yet allows other students to skip material they might find confusing. Common pitfalls and mistakes. Cautions students about common pitfalls and mistakes that most new technicians learn the hard way from trial-and-error on the job. Practical TipsHighlighted with an icon throughout. Shows students short-cuts and techniques actually used by seasoned service technicians. Simple explanations of electronicsDescribes the inputs and the outputs without attempting explanations at the nuclear level of how the diodes, IC, and triacs work or are put together. Focuses on the need-to-know electronics material that students will use as service techniciansnot as designers or repairers of these black boxes. A separate, optional chapter on the theory of How Motors Work. Allows instructors flexibility in covering this topic. Those who feel that service technicians are never called upon to do tasks for which motor theory is required can omit this chapter and can spend more time on motor applications, dealing with the nuts and bolts of starting relays, motor troubleshooting, and circuit testing. Alternately, instructors can use this chapter as a starting point, providing a different approach to explaining current, transformers, inductance, and so on. Questions and problemsPresented throughout the text immediately following the applicable wiring diagram description. Challenge students' understanding of concepts, rather than challenging their ability to recall miscellaneous facts or parrot back passages. Highlighted and defined key termsCommon industry jargon is identified within the text and defined in the Glossary. Provides students with a convenient in-text resource for learning important terminology essential to the job.