Building HVAC Science: Recent Episodes
Bill Spohn
Building HVAC Science covers a broad array of topics in building science and HVAC diagnostics, as well as human comfort, health, and safety. Hosted by HVAC measurement and building performance expert Bill Spohn, this show will take a deep dive into all things that relate to buildings and people in the built environment. This show is a production of TruTech Tools
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome back Brent Davidson, founder of the U.S. Heat Pump Summit, for an energizing discussion that soars from glider flights to the frontlines of heat pump education and adoption. Brent shares the story behind launching the Summit—from a hunch inspired by his solar-industry background to a growing movement that now brings together top contractors, technical experts, manufacturers, and rebate program leaders. The goal? To improve both the business and field deployment of air and water-based heat pump solutions.
Brent outlines what sets the Summit apart: a laser focus on real-world, immediately actionable knowledge, a casual and collaborative vibe, and a mission to unify high-performance trades around the electrification of homes. This year’s event, happening November 18–19 at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA, will feature expanded tracks, a full trade show floor, and a speaker lineup packed with industry leaders. The conversation closes with a nerdy deep dive into the “coffin corner” of aviation physics—showcasing Brent’s curious mind and setting the tone for the Summit itself: smart, focused, and driven to elevate the industry.
The first podcast Brent came on:
https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep132-the-heat-pump-summit-with-brent-davidson-august-2023/
US Heat Pump Summit: https://www.usheatpumpsummit.com/
Brent’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdavidson/
Brent’s email: Brent@usheatpumpsummit.com
This episode was recorded in June 2025.
“Proposals don’t save energy… action does.”
— Bill Spohn
“I didn’t know how cool this thing was until we started sharing it with the world.”
— Amanda Godward
“Change is hard—but that’s what makes it great.”
— Amanda quoting Ross Trethewey from This Old House
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Amanda Godward, founder of Ecotelligent Homes and Ecotelligent Software. Amanda shares her journey from mechanical engineer in the auto industry to a passionate home performance contractor and software developer. Her Excel-based audit tool, born from a need to streamline customer reports and drive action, eventually evolved into a full-blown mobile and desktop app that’s now saving contractors hours per appointment.
Ecotelligence Software is designed by a contractor for contractors. It supports fast, accurate energy audits and work orders, including customizable good-better-best proposals, automated workflows, and rich documentation via mobile-friendly tools. Amanda highlights how her engineering background helped her embed best practices, consistency, and compliance into the platform, resulting in better customer outcomes and more efficient field operations.
From audit to install, Amanda’s thoughtful approach and personal joy in helping others shines through. The conversation underscores the value of consultative selling, real-time proposals, and how the right tool can empower contractors to fix more homes faster—all while delighting customers and installation crews alike.
Amanda is offering discount code: BSHVAC to get half off your first month of service with Ecotelligent, this code expires June 30, 2025.
Ecotelligent software:
https://ecotelligentsoftware.com/
Amanda’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-godward-28898b9/
Amanda’s email: amanda@ecotelligentsoftware.com
Amanda’s home performance business: https://www.ecotelligenthomes.com/
This episode was recorded in May 2025.
“The process doesn’t fail. The technician fails to follow the process.”
– Dirk Nauman
In this inspiring episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Dirk Nauman—HVAC trainer, simulator inventor, and founder of Visual 3D Academy. Dirk shares his personal transformation from a nervous first-time trainer to an industry innovator dedicated to improving HVAC education through simulation and visualization. He discusses how necessity drove him to create his first HVAC simulator from scrap components, eventually evolving it into a line of compact training tools now used in schools, prisons, and technical programs across North America.
Dirk also introduces the Visual 3D Academy platform, a 3D-based learning system designed to immerse students in HVAC theory like never before. From diagnosing faults to exploring animated equipment cutaways, learners can access both physical simulators and virtual models. He emphasizes the importance of foundational understanding and how his mission includes supporting returning citizens and changing lives through education.
This episode is packed with insights on building training tools from scratch, applying theory in meaningful ways, and using technology to close the skills gap in HVAC. Whether you’re a contractor, educator, or technician, Dirk’s story will energize your approach to learning—and teaching—the trade.
Dirk’’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-nauman/
Visual 3D Academy website: https://www.visual3dacademy.com/
HVAC Simulator Website: https://hvacsimulator.com/
Dirk’s Technician vs. Mechanic video: https://vimeo.com/1057050226
Dirk’s email address: dirk@hvacsimulator.com
The book he mentions (By Daniel W. Bixby): Product Training for the Technical Expert: https://a.co/d/0lmP00o
This episode was recorded in May 2025.
“We’re not guessing what’s inside the walls—we’re measuring how homes really use energy.”
Max Reichlin
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Max Reichlin from Clean Power Research to explore a groundbreaking HVAC tool: Thermentor. Designed to bridge the gap between estimated and actual residential energy loads, Thermentor leverages real energy usage data to perform virtual energy audits. The goal? More accurate, faster, and accessible load calculations that empower contractors and homeowners alike—particularly when considering heat pumps, dual fuel systems, or just right-sizing equipment.
Max shares the origin story of Thermentor, explains how the tool works, and discusses its current deployment across a handful of U.S. states, with more to come. He also outlines future plans, including better integration with real-time thermostat data and improved incentive visibility. Listeners will gain insight into how traditional Manual J calculations may overshoot actual needs, and why tools like Thermentor could reshape how we approach home comfort and efficiency.
Whether you're an HVAC pro or a curious homeowner, this episode delivers valuable context on where HVAC technology is headed—and how data-driven tools are making that future a little smarter.
Max’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxreichlin/
Thermentor website: https://www.thermentor.com/
Thermentor White Papers: https://www.thermentor.com/how-does-it-work/#white-papers
This episode was recorded in May 2025.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Ben Hildebrandt, a passionate advocate for building science and green technology education at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). Ben shares his winding career path—from automotive mechanics to aircraft maintenance to architectural technology—and how that journey has shaped his deep commitment to sustainable building practices.
Ben discusses the role of applied research at SAIT, highlighting its focus on real-world implementation of green technologies in residential and commercial buildings. He covers the challenges of deep energy retrofits, labor shortages, and siloed efforts within the industry, and offers insights into training programs aimed at bridging those gaps. The conversation also explores comfort, thermal resilience, and the importance of integrating mechanical systems with building envelopes to avoid costly failures.
Whether you’re a contractor, designer, educator, or just curious about the future of high-performance buildings, this episode delivers a comprehensive look at what’s working—and what still needs work—in the green building movement.
Some great quotes from the episode:
You can’t have a green building if you ignore building science—it’s the foundation for comfort, health, and durability."
"The real challenge isn’t technology—it’s training enough people to use it right."
"We don’t need more silos in this industry. We need bridges."
Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brhildebrandt/
Residential Deep Energy Retrofit Guide (Free PDF Download): https://www.enbix.ca/document/a-guide-to-deep-energy-retrofits/
SAIT Applied Research and Innovation Services Hub: https://www.sait.ca/research-and-innovation-services
Retrofit Canada (some great completed Canadian Retrofit Case studies here): https://retrofitcanada.com/
This episode was recorded in May 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by a special guest who’s carrying on the Spohn legacy—Billy Spohn. The trio recaps their experience at the 2025 National Home Performance Conference in New Orleans, the largest in the event’s history, with over 2,800 attendees. They reflect on the continued convergence of HVAC and building performance disciplines, and how this cross-pollination is finally taking root at scale.
From highlights in the expo hall, including interest in the new RetroTec Air Tracer and the Testo 860i thermal imager, to insightful sessions on whole-home solutions and ventilation maintenance, the conversation underscores the critical value of collaboration and continuing education. Bill shares a touching moment from his “Faces of Energy Efficiency” interview, revealing how this conference shaped his path and even inspired the founding of TruTech Tools. The episode closes with admiration for industry legends like John Tooley and rising influencers like Genry Garcia, who exemplify the power of blending theory, tools, and field application.
Whether you're a veteran or a first-time attendee, this recap will inspire you to think holistically about comfort, health, and energy use in buildings—and maybe even join the community at the next show in Columbus, OH, in 2026.
The next NHPC in 2026: https://building-performance.org/events/national/
Our lineup of Building Performance and HVAC tools:
https://trutechtools.com/all-categories
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-spohn-jr-a06201a3/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/
This episode was recorded in April 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Jeff Cherif and David Madden from JB Industries, a long-standing, U.S.-based HVAC tool manufacturer with deep roots in Aurora, Illinois. Jeff shares his fascinating journey from Motorola executive in Dubai to co-owner of JB Industries, sparked by a chance rooftop encounter with one of JB’s own vacuum pumps in the Middle East. David brings a multi-generational connection to the business and reflects on the evolution of JB’s manufacturing ethos and engineering depth.
The conversation dives into what sets JB apart: a true commitment to American manufacturing, ultra-durable tool designs, and a strong feedback loop with HVAC contractors. The team shares stories behind new product development, including their latest line of wireless probes and a replaceable-sensor micron gauge. They emphasize quality, repairability, and a willingness to collaborate directly with field pros who have fresh ideas. It’s a heartfelt and detailed look at a company staying grounded in principles while pushing innovation forward.
Link to JB’s website: https://www.jbind.com/
Link to JB’s product line: https://trutechtools.com/jb-industries.html
Link to the JB Product Ideas form: https://www.jbind.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JB-Product-Idea-Submission-Form_web.pdf
JB ClimateClass Wireless probes:https://trutechtools.com/jb-climate-class.html/
Jeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-cherif-15351a1/
Dave’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-madden-926b6890/
This episode was recorded in April 2025.
“How much pain they have cost us, the evils which never happened.”
—Thomas Jefferson
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Anthony Woo, an HVAC contractor from Quebec, Canada. Anthony shares his journey from dropping out of college to becoming a successful business owner specializing in heat pump installations in one of North America's coldest climates. He discusses his personal and professional evolution, from gaining confidence through a Tony Robbins seminar to implementing systems like EOS in his rapidly growing business. Anthony also highlights the power of data-driven decisions, the importance of networking through NCI, and his passion for educating homeowners about indoor air quality and comfort.
Throughout the conversation, Anthony gives us a peek into his strategic approach to business growth, emphasizing sustainable scaling, reinvesting in his team, and leveraging modern tools like the TrueFlow Grid for diagnostics. He also talks about creating a strong personal brand and reputation that fueled his success primarily through word-of-mouth marketing. This episode offers actionable insights for HVAC professionals looking to elevate their craft, implement smart business practices, and lead with purpose.
Some thought nuggets from Anthony: “Podcasts are like a university on wheels for learning.” “As I learn new things, I’m conscious of making sure my colleagues have the framework to understand what I am talking about.” “I apply filtration to ideas to decide what to implement.”
Finally, Anthony offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: set your goals, make a plan, and go after what you want—without fear.
After we finished recording, ELK helped summarize: “You’ve said you don't know how to run a business. What you are really saying is you are not running a business the way others do or advise you to do, you are running your business on your own terms.”
Anthony’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-woo-88a77466/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ClimatisationACG
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/anthonywoohvac/reels/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/climatisationacg/
This episode was recorded in March 2025.
“You can be high quality and effective, but also efficient at the same time.”
— Furman Haynes, Founder of WorkHero
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Furman Haynes, co-founder of WorkHero, to explore a critical challenge facing small HVAC business owners: the administrative burden that stifles growth. Furman shares his journey into the HVAC industry, inspired by a passion for building organizations that support small business success. He recounts his eye-opening experiences at industry events and his realization that paperwork and administrative tasks often overwhelm small operators.
Furman explains how WorkHero was designed to provide expert office management for companies with under ten employees—helping them streamline operations without adding complex software. Through a combination of dedicated virtual office managers and AI-powered tools, WorkHero tackles the paperwork bottlenecks that can prevent growth. Furman also discusses insights from their recent industry survey, revealing that small businesses spend over 15 hours a week on admin work and often get stuck at the $1-2 million revenue mark without making strategic investments in people or systems.
The conversation wraps up with Furman’s take on the importance of mindset shifts for owner-operators, the role of data in improving pricing strategies, and the need for a supportive community like www.BetterHVAC.org to ensure quality-focused businesses can remain profitable and thrive.
Furman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/
His email: furman@workhero.pro
Work Hero Website: https://www.workhero.pro/
Link to the Survey Results: https://www.workhero.pro/blog/report
There are many reports out there, but none of them look specifically at the day-to-day realities of running your own small business.
That's why WorkHero partnered with HVAC School to survey over 1,300 industry professionals.
This Industry Pulse report examines:
The state of the industry - from company sizes to revenue patterns
How contractors balance technical work with business operations
Why owners often hit a growth ceiling around $1-2M in revenue
Which tools and technologies companies are adopting
What successful companies are doing differently
Drawing from real data across the country, we provide insights about managing growth, freeing up owner time, and dealing with the technician shortage. The findings reveal both challenges and opportunities for contractors of all sizes.
This episode was recorded in March 2025.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser interview Jake Yurek, the co-founder of Pearl Edison, a platform designed to simplify the installation of energy-efficient systems for homeowners and contractors. Jake shares the origins of the company’s name, inspired by Thomas Edison’s first power station on Pearl Street, and explains how Pearl Edison partners with trusted entities like utilities and city governments to facilitate HVAC installations. Their approach aims to reduce customer acquisition costs for contractors while improving the decision-making process for homeowners.
Jake delves into the unique value proposition of Pearl Edison: acting as an intermediary that guides homeowners to the right system design before involving contractors. This approach saves contractors time and increases profitability by ensuring they engage with highly qualified leads. Pearl Edison focuses on maintaining high-quality standards by utilizing BPI-certified experts for home assessments, conducting blower door tests, and leveraging robust data analytics to provide personalized system recommendations.
The conversation also explores Pearl Edison’s business model of partnering with utilities and local governments, its strategic expansion plans, and the commitment to building trust and comfort with homeowners. Jake highlights the company’s continuous messaging and technology evolution to serve contractors and enterprise partners better. He invites interested contractors to connect with Pearl Edison, emphasizing the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships as the company grows into new markets.
Learn more at: https://www.pearledison.com/
Jake’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakeyurek/
This episode was recorded in February 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Eric George, founder of Home Comfort Advisor, to discuss his journey from insulation and energy audits to content creation and education. Eric shares how his background in home performance shaped his passion for providing homeowners and tradespeople with reliable, science-based information.
He details his soon-to-launch online course, which simplifies building science principles for homeowners and professionals alike, helping them ask the right questions and make informed decisions about home comfort, insulation, and energy efficiency. Eric also dives into the importance of proper diagnostics, virtual inspections, and the role of high-quality content in debunking myths and misinformation in the industry.
Eric's insights and resources provide a fresh, practical approach to improving indoor environments if you’re a contractor, homeowner, or just someone interested in the science behind home comfort. Tune in to learn more about his course, YouTube channel, and how he’s making building science accessible to all.
Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericngeorge/
Learn Home Comfort Resources: https://learnhomecomfort.com/
His YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HomeComfortAdvisors
His course: https://myhomecomfortadvisor.com/
This episode was recorded in February 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill and Eric welcome Rachel Kaiser to discuss an often-overlooked yet critical topic: data integrity in HVAC and building performance. Rachel, who has a background in scientific research and data quality, shares insights into how the HVAC industry generates and manages data, why data integrity matters, and the risks of poor data management.
They explore real-world examples—from technicians misreporting measurements to the challenges of maintaining reliable combustion data—and discuss how digital tools can both help and hinder data integrity. Rachel breaks down key principles of data integrity using the ALCOA+ framework, which ensures data is attributable, legible, contemporaneous, original, and accurate, along with being complete, consistent, enduring, and available.
The conversation touches on how connected tools, data logging, and digital advancements are reshaping HVAC, making accurate data more accessible while also increasing the need for awareness and best practices. If you've ever questioned how reliable your measurements are—or how much you can trust the data you work with—this episode is a must-listen!
Rachel on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-kaiser-416020288/
This episode was recorded in February 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Sophie Ashley of Energy Vanguard, an HVAC designer with a background in carpentry and building science. Sophie shares her journey from hands-on construction work to HVAC design, emphasizing the critical integration of mechanical systems and building structures. She discusses the importance of feedback loops with installers and her experience performing HERS ratings in the field.
Sophie also highlights the shift toward high-performance homes, the growing adoption of heat pumps, and the evolving role of ventilation strategies like ERVs. She provides insights on overcoming industry challenges, the need for better collaboration between trades, and the importance of attracting more women to the field. Wrapping up, she encourages continuous learning and engagement in the HVAC community, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the industry.
Energy Vanguard website: https://www.energyvanguard.com/
Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-ashley-6b531119a/
This episode was recorded in February 2025.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, host Eric Kaiser is joined by Keith Gifford, Senior Global Product Manager at Penn Controls, for an in-depth discussion about the emerging use of A2L refrigerants in the HVACR industry. A2Ls are a new class of refrigerants classified by ASHRAE as mildly flammable and boast a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to traditional refrigerants. Keith shares his unique perspective, shaped by extensive experience across all major refrigeration components, to explain the challenges, opportunities, and safety considerations surrounding A2Ls.
Key topics include the design and engineering hurdles posed by A2Ls, such as material compatibility, flammability mitigation, and the development of leak sensors calibrated to specific refrigerants. Keith also addresses the impact on service technicians, building codes, and system designs, emphasizing the importance of industry-wide education to ensure safe and effective adoption. Finally, Keith reflects on the future of refrigerants, including the potential for CO2 and other environmentally friendly solutions, signaling that innovation in HVACR is far from over.
PENN Controls: https://www.penncontrols.com/
AHRI A2L Building Code map: https://www.ahrinet.org/a2l-refrigerant-building-code-map-us
SNAP Rule 26: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-05/snap-final-rule-26-factsheet.pdf
ASHRAE New Refrigerant Safety Designations and Classifications: https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/technical%20resources/bookstore/factsheet_ashrae_english_november2022.pdf
Keith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-gifford-519bb73/
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser, along with the TruTech Tools team, recap their experiences at the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium and AHR Expo in Orlando, Florida. They share insights from meeting industry professionals, attending educational sessions, and exploring the latest HVAC tools and technology. The team discusses key highlights, including the impact of Second Chance University, the HVAC Tactical Awards, and the High-Performance Hangout, emphasizing the strong sense of community within the industry.
The team also dives into standout products showcased at AHR, such as Testo’s new thermal imaging cameras, Inficon’s D-TEK Pro leak detector, and NAVAC’s latest digital manifold. They touch on the increasing role of technology in HVAC, including EEV Mate’s electronic expansion valve tool and advancements in vacuum pumps and refrigerant scales. Finally, they reflect on the growing educational initiatives in HVAC, such as the Grit Foundation’s efforts to introduce young people to the trades and the launch of Better HVAC, a nonprofit that fosters ethical practices and knowledge-sharing.
Whether you attended the events or missed out, this episode provides an engaging recap of what’s shaping the HVAC industry in 2024. Tune in to hear firsthand experiences and takeaways from some of the most significant gatherings in the field!
Two things we missed: The Third US HeatPumpSummit is on tap for this November in Massachusetts.
https://www.usheatpumpsummit.com/
Our friends at www.WorkHero.pro ran a survey in conjunction with the www.HVACRSchool.com to look at the day-to-day realities of running a small HVAC business. See the survey results here: https://www.workhero.pro/blog/report
Sue on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-bertsch-962496174/
Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crawley-20b41550/
Bill, Jr. on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-spohn-jr-a06201a3/
Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/
Bill, Sr. on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/
2nd Chance University: https://2ndchanceuniversity.org/
www.BetterHVAC.org
HVAC Tactical: https://hvactactical.com/
www.TheGritFoundation.com
https://hvacrschool.com/events/6th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
The NCI Summit: https://www.gotosummit.com/
This episode was recorded in February 2025.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Craig Migliaccio, the creator of AC Service Tech, author, educator, and industry influencer. Craig shares his journey from teaching HVAC in high school to becoming a prolific author and content creator, driven by a passion for making practical, hands-on learning accessible to HVAC professionals and students. With over 60,000 copies sold of his first book and a rapidly growing suite of resources, Craig has made an indelible mark on the industry.
Craig discusses the challenges and rewards of writing technical books, the value of bridging the gap between theory and practice, and the immense effort involved in producing educational materials. His team-driven approach and dedication to quality are evident in his books, training tools, and YouTube channel, which boasts over 500,000 subscribers. Craig also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, family, and faith, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being alongside their professional goals.
Craig’s motivation to write came from gaps he observed in existing HVAC textbooks, leading him to create step-by-step, procedure-focused resources.
Building a robust educational platform requires collaboration, persistence, and a willingness to iterate and improve.
Craig’s advice to technicians: prioritize family, invest in knowledge and skills, and focus on meaningful connections in the industry.
Craig’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@acservicetechchannel
Craig’s books at TruTech Tools: https://trutechtools.com/ac-service-tech/
And his newest book can be found here: https://trutechtools.com/ac-service-tech-refrigerant-charging-and-service-procedures-2nd-edition/
His website: https://www.acservicetech.com/
EP 74 with Craig from 2022: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep74-where-you-can-go-with-passion-and-persistence-with-craig-migliaccio-april-2022/
Craig on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-migliaccio-71085a74/
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this insightful episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Eric Kaiser takes a deep dive into the world of indoor air quality (IAQ) with guest expert John Ellis. With over four decades of experience in HVAC and building science, John shares his wisdom on addressing IAQ challenges effectively. The discussion spans the critical importance of tailoring solutions to individual client needs, the tools and methodologies for assessing indoor air environments, and the interplay between building science and mechanical systems in achieving optimal outcomes.
John introduces his six key principles for good IAQ, covering everything from thermal comfort and filtration to pollutant control and building pressure management. The conversation also highlights real-world applications, including helping clients with severe medical conditions improve their quality of life through better IAQ strategies. Whether you're an HVAC technician or a building performance professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice to elevate your IAQ solutions.
John’s number 505-652-8119
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ellis-b13b0411/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.ellis.3701
Dynamic Air Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DynamicAir4U
HVAC Learning Campus: https://www.hvaclearningcampus.com
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this heartfelt episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Manly Arnason, an HVAC business owner from Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. Manly shares his journey of transformation—from a challenging past to becoming a dedicated tradesperson with a mission to bring integrity and quality to the HVAC industry. Drawing from his experiences running a small business, Manly opens up about the challenges of implementing proper practices in the trades, the importance of continuous education, and the role of community in fostering growth and excellence.
Manly’s story highlights the power of personal and professional change, emphasizing his commitment to commissioning systems properly, adhering to codes, and treating customers with the respect they deserve. The conversation touches on the unique challenges of working in the Canadian climate, the significance of national apprenticeship programs, and the value of building a like-minded community to support others striving to improve their craft. This inspiring episode is a reminder that growth, both personal and professional, begins with a decision to do better.
His business website: https://www.firstcallbrandon.ca/
His business on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstcallbrandon
Manly’s email: firstcall2255@gmail.com
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jason Esteves and Dan Kelly from Seitron Americas. The discussion offers an in-depth look at Seitron’s evolution, its role in the HVAC industry, and the company's dedication to training and customer support. Jason and Dan share their personal journeys, recounting how they started in the industry, their mentorship under the late Ray Biarnes, and their passion for delivering high-quality products and service.
The conversation highlights Seitron’s live-fire training academy, the launch of new products like the BeSafe portable gas monitors and combustion analyzers, and their upcoming refrigeration tools debuting at AHR Expo. The guests emphasize the company's focus on customer feedback, innovation, and a family-oriented culture. Personal anecdotes, such as Jason’s son competing in the Little League World Series and their mutual connection to their soccer coach turned mentor, add a relatable and heartfelt dimension to the episode.
This episode is a must-listen for HVAC professionals eager to learn more about Seitron’s commitment to supporting technicians, innovating in the field, and fostering a sense of community in the industry.
Find Seitron at Booth 5391 at the AHR expo
Seitron’s homepage: https://seitron.com/en_us/
Seitron Products at TruTech Tools: https://trutechtools.com/seitron-americas.html
Jason’s contact info:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-esteves-9690255/
jesteves@seitronamericas.com
Dan’s contact info:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-kelly-b387b873/
dkelly@seitronamericas.com
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Eric Kaiser is joined by Robert Bean, an ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer and a renowned expert on indoor environmental quality (IEQ). Together, they explore the intricate relationship between architecture, thermal comfort, and HVAC systems. Robert shares insights from his extensive travels, observations of traditional architecture, and key lessons from his work in designing high-performance buildings.
The discussion highlights the critical distinction between energy efficiency and human comfort, emphasizing that discomfort often drives energy use. Robert explains foundational concepts like mean radiant temperature (MRT) and operative temperature and how they profoundly affect perceived comfort. He challenges common industry assumptions, such as relying solely on air temperature for thermal comfort, and advocates for a comprehensive approach that includes radiant, convective, and architectural solutions.
Listeners will gain practical advice on incorporating IEQ principles into design, leveraging tools like the ASHRAE Standard 55 and Robert’s free eBook, Thermal Comfort Principles and Practical Applications for Residential Buildings. The conversation concludes with a call to prioritize human comfort in every aspect of building design and operation.
Get the free eBook mentioned here: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13843486/
Here is Robert’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbeanret/
Center for Built Environments Thermal Comfort Tool: https://comfort.cbe.berkeley.edu/
Robert joined us in 2017 for episode #4:
https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep4-it-takes-more-than-a-good-hvac-system-to-deliver-comfort/
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser welcomes David Richardson from the National Comfort Institute. David shares his journey from starting as a “gopher” for his father’s HVAC business to becoming a leading advocate and instructor for high-performance HVAC systems. The discussion delves into the evolution of HVAC standards, focusing on the importance of measurements, diagnostics, and craftsmanship in delivering comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
David introduces the concept of high-performance HVAC, emphasizing the importance of field measurements to diagnose and solve system inefficiencies. The conversation highlights tools like the TrueFlow® Grid, which have revolutionized testing accuracy and streamlined processes. They also touch on customer engagement, the challenges of breaking industry habits, and the importance of a growth mindset when adopting new practices.
The episode concludes with David encouraging HVAC professionals to embrace small, consistent improvements, measure system performance on their own projects, and engage with the growing community of like-minded industry peers who are eager to share knowledge.
Here is David’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-richardson-41502112/
NCI’s HOMEPAGE: https://www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com/
NCI Store on TruTech website: https://trutechtools.com/nci-store.html
Find the Digital TrueFlow® Grid at TruTechTools®: https://trutechtools.com/trueflow
This episode was recorded in January 2025.
In this insightful episode of Building HVAC Science, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser reconnect with Silas Hoeppner for a follow-up discussion that dives deeper into optimizing comfort and efficiency in existing homes. Silas shares his journey of transitioning from a house-centric approach to an occupant-centric model in his work, detailing the lessons he’s learned and how these shifts have reshaped his philosophy.
You can find more details on Silas’ backstory in Episode 193, found here: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep193-building-performance-with-purpose-silas-hoeppners-journey-november-2024/
Silas explains the importance of understanding homeowners’ unique goals and success metrics rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the value of asking the right questions, effectively addressing comfort issues, and avoiding assumptions about efficiency or customer priorities. Silas also explores the nuances of balancing technical precision with customer communication, highlighting real-life examples of problem-solving that reflect this paradigm shift.
The conversation touches on common misconceptions, such as the oversizing of heat pumps and misplaced priorities in energy audits. Silas concludes by offering actionable advice for listeners: prioritize clear communication, understand the occupants’ real needs, and ensure solutions align with both immediate and long-term goals.
Here is his LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silasjames/
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this milestone episode, Bill Spohn and co-host Eric Kaiser welcome Bryan Orr, the instigat-ORR behind the creation of the Building HVAC Science podcast. They dive deep into the podcast's origin story, reflecting on how Bryan's love for audio and creative expression sparked a wave of content that has deeply impacted the HVAC industry. Bryan shares his journey from audio experimentation as a child to podcasting professionally, highlighting the values of curiosity, passion, and the abundance mindset in both personal and professional life.
Bill and Bryan discuss how podcasting has shaped their careers and relationships, emphasizing the joy of connecting with people, sharing knowledge, and leaving a legacy. Bryan lauds Bill’s warm, engaging voice and thoughtful approach to podcasting, while Bill credits Bryan for mentoring him into the space. They share insights into the challenges and rewards of consistent content creation and how the show has evolved to explore topics that truly inspire them.
Looking forward, Bill envisions a gradual transition, with Eric taking on more of the driving role while Bill continues as a passionate participant. The episode concludes with a plug for the HVACR Training Symposium, an event Bryan leads to connect industry professionals and advance the field.
HVACR SCHOOL WEBSITE (Chock full of resources!):https://hvacrschool.com/
HVAC School Podcast: https://hvacrschool.com/podcast/
6th Annual Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/6th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this powerful episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser bring on a truly inspiring guest, Danny Huffman, founder of Second Chance University. Danny shares the transformative mission behind his organization, which helps individuals transitioning from incarceration, substance abuse, or homelessness rebuild their lives through HVAC training, life skills development, and career preparation.
Danny’s passion shines as he recounts his journey, from growing up on a Texas farm to creating a program that changes lives. Listeners will learn how Second Chance University’s intensive six-week program provides participants not only with technical expertise but also the mental tools and confidence needed to succeed in life and work. With partnerships from organizations like TruTech Tools, CareerSource, and others, Danny emphasizes the importance of doing the right thing and fostering community safety and success.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in workforce development, second chances, or the transformative power of education and mentorship.
Here is Danny’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyhuffman/ And a link to his website: https://2ndchanceuniversity.org/
And his email: dhuffman@2ndChanceUniversity.org
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Ross Trethewey, a mechanical engineer, consultant, and building science advocate who also appears on This Old House. Ross shares his journey from being a fifth-generation plumber to becoming a professional engineer with a passion for high-performance buildings. He discusses the critical interplay between building systems and science, highlighting his work in residential and commercial design through his firm, TE2 Engineering. He also delves into his unique projects, including a World War I lookout tower retrofit, which underscores the importance of holistic building assessments.
The conversation transitions into the challenges of translating the wealth of building science knowledge into practical applications. Ross emphasizes the need for a structured approach, like checklists or decision trees, to guide professionals through complex building scenarios. He praises initiatives like Better HVAC, which aim to centralize resources for the industry. Finally, Ross explores the importance of mentorship, shared resources, and ongoing learning, advocating for tools like ACCA Manual J, the Passive House Planning Package to prioritize impactful changes in building performance.
Ross’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosstrethewey/
Ross’ Engineering business:http://www.te2engineering.com/
This Old House on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thisoldhouse
Passive House Planning Package: https://passivehouse.com/04_phpp/04_phpp.htm
Our episode with Adam from Heat Geeks: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep176-empowering-engineers-the-heatgeek-approach-to-high-efficiency-heating-with-adam-chapman-july/
Building Science Corporation classes and events: https://buildingscience.com/upcoming-events-and-training
Coffee and Caleffi webinars: https://www.caleffi.com/en-us/education/coffee-caleffitm
Enrico Bonilauri’s Emu hands on classes: https://emupassive.com/training/
Pretty Good House Concepts: https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/
Pretty Good House Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Good-House-Michael-Maines/dp/1641551658
Our episode on Pretty Good House: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep105-whats-a-pretty-good-house-with-dan-kolbert-and-chris-briley-dec-2022/
Allison Bailes’ book: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html
BetterHVAC website: www.BetterHVAC.org
Our episode with Shawna Henderson of BlueHouse Energy: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep147-building-science-haiku-with-shawna-henderson-november-2023/
HVACR School Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/6th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
Rocky Mountain Institute Green Upgrade Calculator: https://greenup.rmi.org/
The National Institute of Building Sciences: Whole Building Design guide: https://www.wbdg.org/whole-building-design
Residential Energy Book by John Kirgger, 7th edition (530 pages):: https://srmi.biz/product/residential-energy/
Residential Energy Book by Krigger & Dorsi, 2004 edition (320 pages):: https://www.amazon.com/Residential-Energy-Savings-Existing-Buildings/dp/1880120127
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this engaging Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Dr. Allison Bailes, a renowned building science expert, to discuss his ongoing home remodeling journey. Allison shares his firsthand experiences of retrofitting a 1960s ranch home in Georgia, uncovering challenges, lessons, and unexpected discoveries along the way.
Allison dives deep into the realities of balancing technical expertise with practical decision-making, from asbestos abatement to air sealing, insulation, and innovative systems like Zehnder ERVs. He highlights the importance of communication with contractors, dynamic environmental factors like radon and air leakage, and the challenges of maintaining performance in existing homes. Throughout the episode, listeners gain invaluable insights into the intersection of building science, project management, and homeowner expectations.
Whether you're an HVAC professional, a homeowner, or simply curious about building science, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge wrapped in relatable anecdotes and humor.
Learn more about his business at www.energyVanguard.com and subscribe to his emails.
Here is his LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonabailes/
We sell his book at TruTech: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this episode, Bill Spohn reviews the 52 episodes of the Building HVAC Science Podcast. published in 2024.
EP#
Published
Topic
Guest(s)
147
1-5-24
Building science hiaku with Shawna Henderson
Shawna Henderson
148
1-12-24
Trade Secrets Revealed- Inside Classset, the Platform Building a Blue-Collar Boom with Cooper Newby
Cooper Newby
149
1-19-24
More Than Just Fixing Furnaces: Why NCI is the Heartbeat of the HVAC Industry with Dominick Guarino
Dom Guarino
150
1-26-24
Filtering the Future - The Journey of John Ellis in Reinventing Air Quality
John Ellis
151
2-2-24
From Ice to Inspiration-Highlights at the AHR Expo .docx
ELK and Bill
152
2-9-24
Ralph Wolf's HVAC Odyssey Lessons, Laughs, and Legacies
Ralph Wolf
153
2-16-24
HVACR Horizons: From 12-Year-Old Prodigies to Industry Pioneers
ELK and Bill
154
2-23-24
Closing the Gap AeroSeal's Quest for Net-Zero Buildings
Amit Gupta
155
3-1-24
Sustainable Spaces: The Journey from Efficiency to Humanity in Design
Lucas Johnson & Austin
156
3-8-24
Inside the Toolbox- Rethinking HVAC with a High-End Twist
With Chris Wisniewski
Chris Wisniewski
157
3-15-24
Heat Pumps, Homes, and High Tech Amply Energy's HVAC Evolution
Ed Fitz, Eric Smith
158
3-22-24
Comfort, Co-ops, and Climate Care Revolutionizing HVAC in Ontario with Victor Hyman
Victor Hyman
159
3-29-24
Blueprints to Bytes How Russ King is Redefining HVAC with Technology
Russ King
160
4-5-24
From Recovery to Revolution The Jason Julian HVAC Journey with Jason Julian
Jason Julian
161
4-12-24
Connecting the Dots HVAC Excellence Conference Highlights and Industry Evolution witj Josh Crawley & Casey Prater.docx
ELK, Josh, Casey
162
4-19-24
Inside HVAC: Wes Davis on Codes, Standards, and Shaping the Future at ACCA 2024
Wes Davis
163
4-26-24
Lies, Damn Lies and Manometer Readings
Jesse Smith
164
5-3-24
Behind the Scenes at ACCA 2024: A Dialogue with Ed Janowiak
Ed Janowiak
165
5-10-24
Blueprints for Efficiency: Enrico Bonilauri’s Deep Dive into Building Standards
Enrico Bonilauri
166
5-17-24
Simplifying Home Electrification: Insights from Zero Homes' Grant Gunnison
Grant Gunnison
167
5-24-24
Tech Meets Trades Wyatt Smith's Mission to Modernize Workforce Productivity
Wyatt Smith
168
5-31-24
Unveiling HVAC Mastery A Journey of Skill and Passion
Matt Akins
169
6-7-24
From Attics to Airwaves Tony Mormino’s HVAC Journey
Tony Mormino
170
6-14-24
How to Grow and Scale a Business from the Ground Up Tommy Mello
Tommy Mello
171
6-21-24
Random updates from Bill
Bill Spohn
172
6-28-24
Tech Trends and HVAC Triumphs: A Denver Summit Recap
ELK & Bill
173
7-5-24
Harnessing AI for Healthier Buildings: Insights with Attune's Co-Founder Julien Stamatakis
Julien Stamatakis
174
7-12-24
Smart Homes, Smarter Trades: Dan Goodman Discusses Building 36’s Innovations
Dan Goodman,
175
7-19-24
From Engineering to Sales: Karine LeBlanc on Building Connections in HVAC
Karine Leblanc
176
7-26-24
Empowering Engineers: The HeatGeek Approach to High-Efficiency Heating
Adam Chapman
177
8-2-24
Smart Tools, Smarter Tech: Jim Bergmann's MeasureQuick Evolution
Jim Bergmann
178
8-9-24
From Gopher to Guru: Steven Rardon's HVAC Journey
Stephen Rardon
179
8-16-24
The Science of Hot Water: Insights and Innovations with Gary Klein
Gary Klein
180
8-23-24
Home Monitoring Madness: Tracking Energy, Air, and More with Bill and ELK
ELK & Bill
181
8-30-24
From Drawings to Durability: Inside the Minds of Building Science Experts
ELK & Bill
182
9-6-24
Transforming Homes and Training Minds: The Brynn Cooksey Approach
Brynn Cooksey
183
9-13-24
Reinventing Wind Power: Inside the World of Harmony Turbines
Chris & Cheryl Moore
184
9-20-24
Cracking the Code: Mastering HVAC Design with Manual S
Russ King
185
9-27-24
Building Better Homes: Bridging the Gap Between Energy Ratings and HVAC
Steve Byers
186
10-4-24
Unlocking Trades: The Power of Skillcat's Mobile Training
Ruchir Shah
187
10-11-24
Revolutionizing Home Comfort: Marco Radocaj’s Balanced Approach to HVAC
Marco Radocaj
188
10-18-24
Young HVAC Prodigy: Elena Day’s Journey to EPA Certification at 12
Elana and Jordan Day
189
10-25-24
Breaking the Cycle: Huff's Journey to HVAC Excellence and Industry Change
Tom Hoffmaster
190
11-1-24
Breathing Easy: Tackling Outdoor Contaminants in Indoor Spaces
Linda Wigington, Rhett Major, Bill Collinge
191
11-8-24
From Building Automation to Smart Homes: The Lumen Cache Revolution
Derek Cowburn
192
11-15-24
Building a Legacy: Energy Efficiency and Innovation with Mark Kaiser
Mark Kaiser
193
11-22-24
Building Performance with Purpose: Silas Hoeppner’s Journey
Silas Hoeppner
194
11-29-24
Behind the Scenes at TruTech Tools: Meet Greg Bokan
Greg Bokan
195
12-6-24
Farming Ideas vs. Farming The Land: Reflections from Another Continent
Bill Spohn
196
12-13-24
EP196 Bill's review of 2024's podcasts
BILL Spohn
197
12-20-24
His remodelling work
Allison Bailes
198
12-27-24
Using knowledge we have in the real world
Ross Trethewey
This episode was recorded in December 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric dives into Bill's recent two-week trip to Africa, covering his time in Kenya and Tanzania. The discussion is rich with cultural insights, unique experiences, and lessons in building science. Bill shares his observations of local architecture, sustainability practices, and the warmth of the people he met, all against the backdrop of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
The full video presentation will be available shortly on the Trutech Tools YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@TruTechTools/featured
Key highlights include:
- The distinct climate and seasonal patterns near the equator, where temperatures remained mild (59°F to 85°F) and the length of day varied only slightly year-round.
- Exploring open-air, sustainable structures designed for natural ventilation and comfort without reliance on modern HVAC systems.
- Encounters with wildlife, from giraffes and lions to hippos and wildebeests, often seen just steps away from their accommodations.
- Reflections on cultural humility, local hospitality, and the sharp contrast between rural simplicity and modern amenities.
The episode closes with a profound observation from a local guide about life in rural areas versus cities: “In village life, your work sustains you directly (farming crops and livestock), while in city life, your work sustains you financially by farming the ideas in your mind.”
This episode was recorded in November 2024.
This episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast features Greg Bokan, Customer Service Manager at TruTech Tools. Greg shares insights from his recent experience (November 13, 2024) attending the IHACI (Institute of Heating and Air Conditioning Industries) trade show in Pasadena. The event attracted a younger crowd, including many students and instructors, offering an opportunity to showcase tools like multimeters and thermal cameras that appeal to HVACR beginners. Greg highlights the importance of engaging with emerging professionals and fostering enthusiasm in the industry.
The conversation delves into Greg’s rich personal background, including his career in sheet metal work and his time as a professional photographer. Greg reflects on the transition from traditional film to digital photography, noting how the technological shift reshaped the industry. He also discusses his passion for beekeeping and gold prospecting, sharing intriguing details about both hobbies and how they intersect with his love for physics and nature. These personal anecdotes provide a glimpse into Greg's multifaceted interests outside of his professional life.
Greg emphasizes the rewarding nature of working at TruTech Tools, where customer care and quality service are paramount. He shares practical tips for customers, such as having order numbers ready for smoother interactions. The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about Greg's long-standing friendship with Jim Bergmann and the possibility of future episodes featuring staff highlights to give customers a deeper connection to the TruTech team.
You can reach Greg here:
Greg@TruTechTools.com
This episode was recorded in November 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Silas Hoeppner, a passionate advocate for building performance and HVAC design, to explore his unconventional career journey in the industry.
Silas shares his story of starting in his family's insulation business, transitioning through various roles in energy ratings, HVAC consulting, and contracting, and ultimately finding his niche at Modern Heating and Air Conditioning in Iowa. He details the challenges he faced, such as battling imposter syndrome and the steep learning curve of technical design, while also emphasizing the importance of connecting technical expertise with people-centric solutions.
Silas offers valuable insights for technicians, focusing on blending technical know-how with clear, relatable communication to homeowners and stakeholders. He highlights the lasting impact of programs like HVAC SAVE and the evolving importance of addressing comfort, durability, and health in building performance. Silas also shares personal lessons about confidence, mental health, and humor in professional growth, encouraging listeners to embrace their individuality while staying committed to learning.
Learn more about Silas here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silasjames/
This episode was recorded in November 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Eric's father, Mark Kaiser, for a special father-son discussion. Mark shares his experiences with building and improving a unique energy-efficient home in Carlinville, Illinois. His journey began in the late 1970s, when he retrofitted a modest house to reduce energy consumption using insulation, solar energy, and a variety of unconventional methods. Mark talks about his motivation for energy efficiency, stemming from his role overseeing utilities at Blackburn College, where he gained valuable insights into energy management and building systems.
Throughout the conversation, Mark delves into the construction techniques he employed, including double wall construction for added insulation, using solar heat gain, and even creating a thermal mass storage system with water-filled milk jugs to retain heat. He explains how he balanced various heating systems, such as solar, wood, and natural gas, and how his hands-on approach—digging around the foundation, raising the roofline, and using sustainable materials—resulted in a home that remains energy-efficient to this day. The Kaisers also touch on innovative electrical systems, such as 12-volt and 24-volt setups, and how these have helped keep energy costs low.
Mark’s deep understanding of thermal mass, energy usage, and alternative construction methods highlights the importance of thoughtful, sustainable home design. As the discussion wraps up, Mark reflects on the lessons learned from maintaining and improving his home over the years, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of perfecting energy-efficient construction. The conversation offers listeners a unique blend of family history, practical tips, and a deep dive into the technical aspects of home energy management.
The DC Freezer Mark mentioned www.sundanzer.com
The paper on the Lo-Cal House may be found here: https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/54705
This episode was recorded in October 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Derek Cowburn, founder of Lumen Cache, to discuss his journey from building automation in pharmaceutical facilities to pioneering smart DC power systems for homes and offices. Derek shares how his background in building controls and automation influenced his development of Lumen Cache; a company focused on creating a smart infrastructure that integrates DC power to drive lighting, sensors, and automation. He explains the advantages of DC power, especially as modern buildings transition to solar panels, batteries, and increasingly DC-centric electronics.
Derek explores the challenges of mainstreaming smart building technologies, particularly overcoming builders' concerns with reliability, cost, and installation ease. Lumen Cache's innovative modular plug-and-play system simplifies integration for builders and offers adaptability for future technology upgrades, unlike traditional AC systems. Derek also highlights the potential of integrating indoor air quality and energy management sensors, envisioning homes and offices that are "smart from the start" without the need for complex retrofits.
Throughout the conversation, Derek discusses his experiences in Shenzhen, China, leveraging the city's manufacturing ecosystem to scale production while planning to expand globally. The episode wraps up with Derek’s vision for the future—an interconnected ecosystem of smart devices that support energy efficiency and comfort, driven by Lumen Cache’s evolving infrastructure. He invites listeners to explore their new generation product, ReNetA, and looks forward to a follow-up conversation to share future developments.
Derek’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcowburn/
YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@LumenCache
The System Design Tool Derek spoke of: https://youtu.be/ZCHEFiY5Bf0?si=4oqtf3jObVJEPV4O
Website: https://www.lumencache.com/
Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumen-cache-inc-lumencache-/about/
Derek’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcowburn/
Contact: https://www.lumencache.com/contact
This episode was recorded in October 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Eric Kaiser takes the lead in interviewing three guests from the ROCIS (Reducing Outdoor Contaminants in Indoor Spaces) initiative: Linda Wigington, Bill Collinge, and Rhett Major. Linda introduces ROCIS, sharing its 10-year mission to help participants monitor and improve indoor air quality, particularly in areas with poor outdoor air. The initiative, primarily focused in southwestern Pennsylvania, involves virtual cohorts where participants use low-cost monitors to track air quality and receive guidance to improve it.
Bill Collinge discusses the differences between low-cost and high-end air quality monitors, explaining how ROCIS focuses on measuring particles and carbon dioxide. He describes how the cohort process helps participants compare outdoor air quality with indoor conditions, assessing how well homes filter and ventilate air. Bill also highlights how data collected across multiple homes helps identify patterns and informs recommendations for improving air quality, while Rhett Major explains the process of air handler interventions. By testing static pressure and airflow in HVAC systems, Rhett helps participants optimize their systems to run more efficiently and reduce energy consumption while improving air quality.
The guests discuss key takeaways from the program, including the importance of filtration, proper HVAC system setup, and the potential health benefits of reducing particulate matter indoors. They emphasize the need for proper system commissioning and the challenges of engaging HVAC contractors in this work. In closing, the team shares their hopes to expand ROCIS principles and interventions beyond Pennsylvania and offer guidance to those interested in healthier, more energy-efficient homes.
LinkedIn: Linda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-wigington-b28a98a/
Rhett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhett-major-85887a10/
Bill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billcollinge/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rocispgh
Website: https://rocis.org/
This episode was recorded in October 2024.
In the Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Bill and Eric are joined by Thomas "Huff" Hoffmaster, II to discuss his experiences transitioning from a technician to tech support and eventually into training and consulting. Huff shares his journey through the HVAC industry, beginning with his early exposure to sheet metal work through his family, moving into service because of his love for solving complex problems, and finally settling into tech support roles for major companies like Carrier and York. His passion for teaching and positively impacting the industry eventually led him to pursue freelance training and consulting, focusing on improving skills across the HVAC workforce.
The conversation delves into the systemic issues within the HVAC industry, particularly around training, communication, and accountability. Huff emphasizes that many problems in HVAC installations stem from a lack of fundamental training and poor communication between sales, installation, and service teams. He points out how often HVAC systems are not installed according to best practices or adjusted properly to meet site-specific needs, leading to performance issues and callbacks. Huff also highlights the critical importance of technicians taking responsibility for their education, utilizing the wealth of resources available today, including tools like Measure Quick, which can elevate the consistency and accuracy of HVAC service work.
Finally, Huff discusses the significance of addressing the root causes of issues rather than just the symptoms. He suggests that HVAC companies should develop protocols for analyzing callbacks to truly understand where mistakes originate—whether from lack of training, rushed installations, or poor management. By adopting a more systemic approach, companies can reduce errors, improve performance, and ultimately provide better service to their customers. Huff's insights encourage technicians and business owners alike to focus on quality, training, and effective communication to drive success in the HVAC industry.
Huff’s Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-huff-hoffmaster-ii-766b3a36/
Huff’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hvactalkwithhuff1379
Huff’s email: thoffmaster@hoffmastermechanical.com
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Elana Day and her father Jordan Day, creators of the YouTube channel Little Miss Fix It. At just 12 years old, Elana has achieved remarkable feats, including passing the EPA-608 certification, possibly making her one of the youngest certified HVAC technicians. The conversation highlights Elana’s growing interest in HVAC, her passion for science, and how her curiosity and hands-on learning led her to explore technical trades.
Elana shares her experience preparing for the EPA certification through a month-long study program, aided by her father and supplemental resources like YouTube. Her keen interest in topics such as atmospheric pressure and vacuum systems reflects her deep engagement with HVAC concepts. Elana also discusses her excitement for future projects, including using her new 3D printer, exploring welding, and continuing hands-on building projects.
Jordan, her father, describes how he supports Elana’s learning by letting her safely experiment with tools and guiding her through various projects. Both emphasize the importance of encouraging young people to explore trades and follow their passions. The episode concludes with Elana offering inspiring advice to listeners, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and continue searching for what excites them.
Jordan Day’s Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-day-93590220b/
You can find Elana doing her thing on YouTube at this link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1PLmZrxcVu09_rWjy1YkmA
Or by searching for Lil'MissFixIt on YouTube
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser is joined by Marco Radocaj from Balance HVAC, who shares insights into his HVAC journey. Marco starts by discussing his background, from an unexpected entry into the HVAC field through his father-in-law's air conditioning company to learning on the job as a new technician with no prior experience. His humorous story of hosing off a generator during his first day illustrates his initial lack of HVAC knowledge and the steep learning curve he faced.
Marco explains the philosophy behind Balance HVAC, emphasizing their commitment to improving how homes are balanced regarding enclosure, occupants, and mechanical systems. He highlights the importance of addressing more than just the cooling function, aiming for a holistic approach to home comfort, where systems are measured and fine-tuned to optimize airflow and insulation. He shares his experiences transitioning from working in his family’s HVAC business to starting Balance HVAC, a new company focusing on thoughtful HVAC installation and attic restoration.
Throughout the episode, Marco dives into attic restoration processes and how his team uses tools like thermal imaging and pressure balancing to ensure the homes they work on are more comfortable and efficient. He discusses the importance of communication with customers, sharing how Balance HVAC involves clients in the process by educating them on the science behind the solutions. The episode ends with Marco reflecting on his passion for elevating industry standards and his excitement about contributing to meaningful improvements in HVAC services.
Marco’s Business: https://www.balance-hvac.com/
Marco was interviewed by R and R magazine in June 2024: https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/90866-mold-and-the-need-for-attic-restoration
More on Balance’s approach: We prioritize the thoughtful alignment of a home's enclosure and mechanical systems. Balance recognizes that homes built two decades ago were designed to "breathe," allowing for natural airflow to regulate temperature and moisture levels. However, modern construction methods and materials have shifted towards creating tighter homes that are not meant to breathe in the same way.
This shift presents challenges, as features like energy-efficient windows, cooler attic environments due to improved roofing materials, and encapsulated attics can inadvertently lead to increased moisture, humidity, and environments conducive to mold growth. These issues can arise when homes are not properly aligned with modern building practices, potentially resulting in discomfort, poor indoor air quality, and health hazards. Marco's deep understanding of how homes are designed to perform allows Balance to address these challenges effectively. By identifying homes that are underperforming or straddling building codes, Balance can implement attic restorations that ensure optimal environmental control. This means creating spaces that are not only comfortable but also dry and healthy for occupants. Through a combination of optimal insulation techniques, strategic ventilation solutions, and moisture management strategies, Balance helps achieve the perfect balance between energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality. Their approach is tailored to each home's unique needs and budget, ensuring lasting improvements that enhance both comfort and peace of mind for homeowners.
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
In the latest episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Bill Spohn speaks with Ruchir Shah, founder of Skillcat, a mobile training platform for skilled trades. Skillcat offers around 1,500 hours of training in areas such as HVAC, plumbing, appliance and electrical work, and has successfully trained over 300,000 individuals in just three years. Ruchir explains that the platform began as a free resource to make training accessible, eventually transitioning to a subscription model costing $10 per person per month. The app includes comprehensive certification courses and features a unique asynchronous proctoring system for exams, allowing users to take assessments flexibly.
Ruchir shares insights into the challenges of building Skillcat, particularly the transition from a free service to a paid subscription, which required careful communication with users. Despite initial apprehensions, the decision has been met with support, contributing to the platform's rapid growth. He emphasizes the importance of user feedback, especially from skilled tradespeople, which has driven continuous improvements and high satisfaction ratings for the app.
The conversation also touches on Ruchir's journey into the trades sector, highlighting the surprising interconnectedness within the HVAC industry. Ruchir expresses his commitment to enhancing education and training for tradespeople, believing that the future holds significant opportunities as the industry addresses workforce shortages. He encourages listeners to explore Skillcat, emphasizing the potential for career growth and job satisfaction in the trades.
Ruchir’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchirshah2/
SkillCat website: https://www.skillcatapp.com/
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn and co-host Eric Kaiser welcome Steve Byers from Energy Logic in Colorado. Steve shares his background and discusses his company's focus on energy ratings, sustainability work, and program compliance, such as Energy Star and DOE Zero Energy Ready programs. He explains how Energy Logic operates across Colorado and Hawaii, working primarily in new home construction while also addressing commercial and multifamily projects. Steve highlights the core role his company plays in ensuring that homes are built for optimal energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, which many builders may not prioritize due to their focus on completing projects.
Steve delves into the challenges faced by energy raters, particularly in the field of new construction. He explains how construction trends and the role of project managers have evolved, with managers overseeing more homes than ever before. This increase has led to greater pressure on quality control and the need for energy raters to ensure homes meet energy efficiency standards. He touches on the disconnect between the work of raters and the awareness of homebuyers, emphasizing that most homebuyers are unaware of the value energy raters bring unless they’re educated about the benefits of energy-efficient homes.
The conversation shifts toward industry trends, including modular construction and advancements in heat pump technology. Steve expresses excitement about the innovation in the modular off-site construction space and the potential for cost reduction in homebuilding. He also discusses the evolving HVAC standards and the integration of commissioning practices like the ACCA 310, which presents challenges for raters and HVAC companies alike. The podcast closes with a reflection on the importance of communication and collaboration between HVAC professionals, builders, and energy raters to ensure better, more efficient, and comfortable homes.
Steve’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebyers/
Steve’s email: steve@nrglogic.com
Energy Logic website: https://theenergylogic.com/
RaterFest website: https://theenergylogic.com/services-for-energy-professionals/raterfest/
This episode was recorded in September 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Bill Spohn is joined by co-host Eric Kaiser and guest Russ King to discuss various aspects of HVAC design, focusing on the complexities and updates to Manual S, a critical document for HVAC equipment selection. Russ King shares his extensive background in building energy modeling and HVAC design, including his journey from traditional HVAC methods to co-founding Coded Energy, a company that developed Kwik Model 3D, a 3D modeling software for load calculations, which has greatly simplified and improved the accuracy of HVAC designs.
The conversation delves into the intricacies of Manual S, highlighting how it has evolved to better address modern challenges in HVAC design, particularly with the rise of variable speed equipment and the need for more precise dehumidification strategies. The guests discuss the importance of proper equipment sizing to ensure comfort and efficiency, and they explore how Manual S provides a structured approach to this process. They also touch on the challenges contractors face in following these guidelines, noting that despite the benefits, a relatively small percentage of designs adhere strictly to Manual S due to a lack of awareness or understanding within the industry.
The episode concludes with insights into practical HVAC design challenges, such as thermostat placement and the importance of air distribution, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and application of best practices. Both Eric and Russ stress the value of using accurate data and following established guidelines to improve the overall quality and performance of HVAC systems, urging listeners to engage with the math behind the designs and to collaborate with others in the industry to refine their skills.
Russ’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-king-m-e-70342913/
Kwik Model 3D website: https://kwikmodel.com
Downloadable Manual S: https://www.acca.org/standards/technical-manuals/manual-s
SpeedSheets downloads
https://www.acca.org/standards/speedsheets/speedsheets-download?submissionGuid=645e594e-00c3-4006-8983-086f39f6fd35
ACCA Approved software:
https://www.acca.org/standards/approved-software
The Structure and “path” of using ACCA manuals in Residential and Commercial Applications:
https://www.acca.org/standards/technical-manuals
Overview of Manual S:
https://www.viridiant.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Manual-S-Brochure_.pdf
Free Online Sizing calulator:
https://www.loadcalc.net/sizing.php
An Overview of Manual S:
https://www.load-calculations.com/what-is-acca-manual-s-.html
This episode was recorded in August 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Chris and Cheryl Moore, the founders of Harmony Turbines, to discuss their innovative approach to wind energy. Chris and Cheryl share the origin story of Harmony Turbines, which started as a personal project in Chris’s basement, driven by his desire to create a quieter, more efficient wind turbine that could operate in lower wind conditions compared to traditional propeller turbines. They explain the challenges they faced, particularly in moving from a small-scale DIY project to a legitimate business venture, which included learning about equity crowdfunding and establishing the necessary corporate structures to raise funds.
The Moores delve into the technical aspects of their turbines, explaining how Harmony’s design differs from traditional wind turbines. They describe it as a modified Savonius vertical axis wind turbine with a unique helix twist, allowing it to capture wind from any direction and self-regulate its speed in high wind conditions by furling its blades. This furling capability, inspired by the yin and yang symbol, sets Harmony Turbines apart, offering a way to protect the turbine from damage while continuing to generate energy. They also discuss the ongoing development of their patented variable air gap generator, which promises greater efficiency but has been challenging to perfect and integrate with the turbine.
Towards the end of the discussion, the Moores emphasize that Harmony Turbines is still in the research and development phase, and they are actively raising funds through StartEngine to continue their work. They invite listeners to consider investing in their company, highlighting that even small contributions can help them advance their innovative technology. The episode wraps up with a call to the audience to support or at least learn more about the groundbreaking work being done at Harmony Turbines.
Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creatingmoore/
Harmony Wind Turbines website: https://harmonyturbines.com/
Start Engine investment page: https://www.startengine.com/offering/harmony-turbines
Harmony’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HarmonyTurbines
Harmony’s patent: https://patents.google.com/patent/US10724502B2/en
Email address: Support@harmonyturbines.com
This episode was recorded in August 2024.
In the recent episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Brynn Cooksey, the owner of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling. Brynn, who is deeply involved in the HVAC industry and building performance, shares his journey from growing up in a family-run HVAC business to becoming an influential figure in the industry. He recounts how his early exposure to the field through his parents' business and subsequent work with a utility company helped shape his career. Brynn emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the significant impact organizations like the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) have had on his professional development.
Brynn discusses his transition from a traditional HVAC service model to a more comprehensive home performance approach, influenced by his training in building science. He explains how his company now incorporates advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, such as blower door tests and combustion analysis, to offer more holistic and energy-efficient solutions to their customers. Brynn's dedication to building science and performance has led to his company rebranding and expanding their services to include shell modifications, insulation, and air sealing.
The podcast also highlights Brynn's efforts in workforce development through his training organization, HVACU, which addresses the shortage of skilled workers in both HVAC and building science. Brynn's involvement with educational initiatives like HeatSpring and his role in a new software venture, Pearl Edison, demonstrate his commitment to advancing industry standards and training the next generation of HVAC professionals. His emphasis on proper training, communication, and the use of advanced technology underscores his approach to business and his contributions to the industry.
Brynn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brynn-cooksey-sr-cem-cms-1968a72a/
Byrnn’s website: https://www.airdoctorshvacservice.com/
HVACU: https://www.hvactrain.com/
PearlEdison: https://www.pearledison.com/
HeatSpring learning:https://www.heatspring.com/
Brynn’s courses at HeatSpring: https://www.heatspring.com/courses?query=brynn&button=
GoldmanSachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program that Both Byrnn and Bill took part in: https://10ksbapply.com/
BSP: Building Science Principles: The Certificate: https://bsp.bpi.org/portal/bsp/
The Book: https://trutechtools.com/BPI-BSP-GUIDE
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser discuss their recent experiences at industry events, particularly the Westford Symposium on Building Science, also known as Building Science Summer Camp. They reflect on the event's unique blend of technical presentations and social interactions, highlighting the presentation by Keith Simon on the longevity of building designs and the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality. The discussion emphasizes how architecture should prioritize craft and function to ensure the longevity and sustainability of buildings.
Eric also shares his insights on another compelling presentation by Steve Baczek, who stressed the importance of clear communication in architectural drawings. Baczek's approach underlines the necessity for architects to convey their intentions precisely to ensure that contractors can execute designs effectively. This conversation leads to a broader discussion on how crucial it is for the HVAC industry to embrace detailed and thoughtful design practices to improve system performance and occupant comfort.
The episode concludes with a look at the social side of these events, where industry professionals from around the world gather to exchange ideas and experiences. The hosts emphasize the value of continuous learning and engagement within the industry, encouraging listeners to seek out educational opportunities and resources to stay informed and improve their professional practice.
Eric’s LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/
Bill’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/
Building Science Corporation link to Summer Camp Slides: https://buildingscience.com/past-events
This episode was recorded in August 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser engage in a lively "duo cast" discussing the various measurements they take in their homes and the reasons behind them. They start the conversation by reflecting on their recent episode with Gary Klein, which inspired Eric to set up a data logging system to monitor hot water temperatures in his home. This leads to a broader discussion about the different tools and devices they use to track energy consumption and efficiency, such as the Emporia Vue energy monitor, which helped Bill identify a faulty installation in his heat pump system.
The hosts delve into their personal experiences with various smart home devices, including air quality monitors from Airthings, radon monitors, and even an innovative weather station called Tempest. They share insights on how these devices have provided valuable data, helping them make informed decisions about their home's energy use and indoor air quality. Bill highlights his use of an ERV system that runs based on CO2 levels. At the same time, Eric discusses his plans to upgrade his home's ventilation and dehumidification systems using the Haven air quality monitor.
Toward the end of the episode, Bill and Eric discuss their use of fitness trackers, discussing the metrics they monitor for personal health. Bill also mentions his latest acquisition, a Bluetooth meat probe, which he plans to use to perfect his grilling techniques. The episode wraps up with the hosts emphasizing the importance of integrating monitoring tools into everyday life to enhance comfort, efficiency, and well-being and inviting listeners to reach out for more information on the products discussed.
Contact us at
bill@trutechtools.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/
ekaiser@trutechtools.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/
The spray foam attic ping pong effect: https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/high-humidity-in-a-spray-foam-attic-part-2/
Products we mention in this podcast:
HAVEN IAQ monitors: https://trutechtools.com/haven
Airthings Radon CO2 and more: https://trutechtools.com/Airthings
Emporia Circuit Power Monitors and EV Chargers: https://www.emporiaenergy.com/
CERV2: Bill’s Conditioning ERV that uses a CO2 sensor to decide when to run: https://buildequinox.com/
Home weather station: https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest
Security cameras: Eric’s: https://www.eufy.com/eufycam#navimenu_4_copy
Bill’s: https://www.wyze.com/products/wyze-cam
EcoQube Radon: https://ecosense.io/products/ecoqube
Aranet COs monitor: https://aranet.com/products/aranet4-home
Meater Bluetooth cooking thermometer: https://store-us.meater.com/products/meater-plus
Kardia portable 6 lead EKG: https://store.kardia.com/products/kardiamobile
Apple watch for fitness: https://www.apple.com/watch/
Home Automation: https://www.home-assistant.io/
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Gary Klein, a veteran in the field of energy conservation, particularly in hot water system design. The discussion begins with Klein explaining his innovative teaching method, using tape on the floor to illustrate the distances between water heaters and home fixtures. This method helps participants understand the time it takes for hot water to reach different parts of a house. Klein emphasizes the importance of efficient hot water system design, criticizing common practices that prioritize aesthetics over functionality.
The conversation then shifts to Klein's experiences and contributions to right-sizing plumbing systems, highlighting the inefficiencies in current standards based on outdated data. He discusses the development of the water demand calculator, a tool that more accurately estimates peak water demand and leads to more efficient pipe sizing. Klein provides examples of how modern buildings can significantly reduce their water supply infrastructure needs, using real data to support the argument for updating plumbing codes and practices to reflect contemporary water use patterns.
In the final segment, Klein shares personal anecdotes from his extensive career, including his time in Lesotho, where he implemented solar energy solutions. He reflects on his work in the United States, promoting the adoption of air-source heat pump water heaters and continuing to lead efforts in right-sizing plumbing systems. Klein also touches on his teaching philosophy, advocating for practical, evidence-based approaches to plumbing and energy conservation. The episode concludes with Klein urging industry professionals to integrate modern technologies effectively and to consider real-world usage patterns in their designs.
Gary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-klein-b112592/
Gary’s website: https://www.garykleinassociates.com/
IAPMO Water Demand Calculator: https://www.iapmo.org/water-demand-calculator/
Larry Weigarten’s books mentioned in the episode:
The Water Heater Workbook: A Hands-On Guide to Water Heaters: https://a.co/d/g2vN6rt
The Philosopher's Wrench: Using Your Creativity, Heart & Tools to Fix the World: https://a.co/d/7zmtq5A This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In the latest Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome special guest Steven Rardon, a YouTube celebrity and owner of Smart Home Comfort. Rardon discusses his journey in the HVAC industry, which began at age 17, working for his girlfriend's father's small HVAC business. Over the years, Rardon transitioned through various roles from installer to service technician, eventually moving to North Carolina in 2005 to pursue better job opportunities. He faced numerous challenges but remained committed to improving his skills and knowledge, which led him to start his own company, Smart Home Comfort.
Rardon shares the pivotal moments that influenced his career, including his transition from Rardon Home Performance to Smart Home Comfort, driven by customer feedback and the need for a more marketable brand. He reflects on how he learned to value quality and service over speed and financial gain, a philosophy instilled by his first mentor. This approach has helped him build a business focused on long-term customer relationships and exceptional service. Rardon also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies, significantly enhancing his ability to diagnose and solve HVAC problems.
The podcast also discusses Rardon's use of advanced testing and measurement tools, such as Measure Quick, to ensure precise and efficient service. He discusses the importance of having reliable digital tools and how they have transformed his work, allowing him to provide better service and maintain strong customer relationships. Rardon advises aspiring HVAC professionals to use modern learning resources and continually strive for excellence. His story underscores the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of quality in building a successful career and business in the HVAC industry.
Stephen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-rardon-3a656886/
Smart Home Comfort website: https://callsmarthomenc.com/
Smart Home Comfort Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SmartHomeComfortNC
Stephen Rardon’s YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@StephenRardon
Corbett Lunsford’s HVAC installers list: https://homediagnosis.tv/hvac-installers
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jim Bergmann as their special guest. The conversation kicks off with a discussion about Jim's well-known product, MeasureQuick, and its origins. Jim elaborates on the journey from his early work with performance and diagnostics using the iManifold to the development of MeasureQuick. The goal was to leverage smart tools and smartphones to perform complex calculations and diagnostics, making advanced performance measurements accessible to everyone in the HVAC industry.
Jim explains the evolution of MeasureQuick over the past 12-15 years, emphasizing its role in aggregating data from smart probes and tools to provide real-time performance calculations and diagnostics. He highlights the importance of setting measurement targets and using data trends to identify system faults. This approach helps technicians better understand system performance and make informed decisions. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing the needs of different user groups, including utility programs and field technicians, and the measures taken to maintain data integrity, such as the introduction of geotagged screenshots.
Towards the end of the podcast, Jim shares insights into his personal journey, including overcoming health challenges and delegating responsibilities within his organization. He discusses the importance of foundational HVAC knowledge and the value of MeasureQuick in providing just-in-time education to technicians. The episode concludes with updates on recent MeasureQuick features and improvements, including a new grid view and AI assistant to enhance user experience. Jim emphasizes the ongoing commitment to improving the HVAC industry through innovation and education, encouraging listeners to stay updated with the latest MeasureQuick developments.
Jim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bergmann-2968178/
measureQuick website: https://measurequick.com/
measureQuick YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@measureQuick
measureQuick products at TruTech Tools: https://trutechtools.com/MeasureQuick
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Adam Chapman from HeatGeek to discuss his insights and experiences in the HVAC industry. Adam, based in the UK, shares his journey of establishing HeatGeek, which started as a blog and YouTube channel aimed at improving heating systems' efficiency and evolved into a comprehensive training and support network for heating engineers. He emphasizes the importance of proper installation and the high efficiency of heat pumps, even in older, less insulated homes, highlighting the significant impact well-trained engineers can have on system performance.
Adam explains the differences in terminology and industry practices between the UK and the US, noting that in the UK, the term "heating engineer" encompasses those who install and maintain heating systems. In contrast, the US uses "technician" more broadly. He describes HeatGeek as a movement focused on educating and empowering engineers through digital tools, training, and a supportive community. This approach ensures that engineers can provide the most efficient and effective heating solutions, ultimately benefiting consumers through reduced running costs and improved system performance.
The conversation also touches on the challenges and resistance Adam faced in promoting heat pumps and the importance of continuous monitoring and data analysis to improve system efficiency. Adam's vision for HeatGeek includes expanding to the US and fostering collaboration between the two regions to enhance the HVAC industry's overall quality and performance. He invites listeners to explore HeatGeek's resources and emphasizes the critical role of engineers in driving the transition to more efficient and sustainable heating solutions.
Adam’sLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-chapman-01046647/
HeatGeek website: https://www.heatgeek.com/
HeatGeek YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@HeatGeek/video
The Contest! : www.HeatPumpMonitor.org
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Karine LeBlanc, a distinguished engineer and international speaker. Karine shares her journey into the HVAC industry, which started under the influence of her father, an HVAC teacher and contractor. Despite her exposure to HVAC from a young age, she made an independent decision to pursue a career in the field after discovering the job security it offered. Her diverse career includes roles in engineering and sales, which allowed her to leverage both her technical skills and her extroverted personality.
Karine emphasizes the importance of networking in a technical industry like HVAC. She recounts her early days in Los Angeles, where she joined ASHRAE and became a reception chair, a strategic move that helped her build connections quickly. She highlights how networking has been crucial to her career, enabling her to form lasting professional relationships and gain credibility in her field. Karine also discusses the significance of virtual networking tools like LinkedIn and virtual meetings, which have expanded opportunities for connection and collaboration.
Towards the end of the interview, Karine touches on her experience as an author and speaker, sharing her motivations and challenges in writing her book. She advises listeners on the value of genuine networking, focusing on learning and building relationships rather than transactional interactions. Her approach to networking is driven by curiosity and a giving mentality, which she believes fosters a stronger, more connected industry. Karine's insights underline the impact of personal connections and continuous learning in professional growth.
Karine’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinel/
Karine’s Book: https://a.co/d/01HKRqRR
Karine’s website: https://www.karineleblanc.com
Karine’s company:https://www.myiaire.com/
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
In this Building HVAC Science podcast episode, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Dan Goodman from Building 36, a company specializing in connected home services. Dan explains the origin of the company's name, which is a nod to the MIT building where he studied electrical engineering and computer science. He shares his journey from working on semiconductors to co-founding a thermostat company and eventually creating Building 36. The company provides smart home solutions tailored for professional trades, aiming to enhance customer retention through advanced monitoring and maintenance plans.
Dan elaborates on the capabilities of Building 36’s connected thermostat and home monitoring system, highlighting its ability to control and monitor various aspects of the home, such as heating, cooling, lighting, and security. The system provides extensive benefits to homeowners and contractors by offering peace of mind through comprehensive monitoring and easy installation features. The company also integrates its services with professional maintenance plans, ensuring higher customer retention rates and consistent service quality.
Throughout the conversation, Dan emphasizes the advantages of partnering with Building 36, noting their strong engineering team, the seamless integration of their products, and the significant impact on the HVAC industry. He discusses the company's strategic move to manufacture products in Bulgaria for cost efficiency and the extensive R&D investments to ensure robust security and reliability. The episode concludes with a call for contractors to explore the benefits of integrating Building 36’s solutions into their offerings, promising a game-changing approach to smart home services and maintenance.
Dan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-g-5305191/
Dan’s company: https://building36.com/
Dan’s bio Dan Goodman is the co-founder and CEO of Building36. Dan founded Building36 to create smart home solutions that make homes safer, more comfortable, and energy efficient by designing them with the homeowner and service provider in mind.
Dan has over 20 years of engineering and technology experience. Before Building36, Dan was an application engineer at Texas Instruments, founded a company that created the first Wi-Fi thermostat, and was head of sales for a startup company that helped pioneer Zigbee wireless technology.
Dan graduated from MIT with a degree in electrical engineering and computer science.
This episode was recorded in July 2024.
Bill Spohn welcomes Julien Stamatakis, co-founder of Attune (formerly SenseWare). Julien shares his journey from working on sensor networks for Parkinson's disease detection during his PhD in Belgium to co-founding a company focused on monitoring the built environment. Initially, their sensor technology aimed at the medical field faced funding challenges, which led them to pivot towards the built environment. They began by collecting energy data and expanded to include various sensors to monitor air quality, occupancy, and energy usage in commercial buildings.
Julien discusses the evolution of their sensor technology, highlighting how customer needs have shaped their development. Starting with energy data collection, they moved on to monitor particulate matter and CO2 levels, especially during events like wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. Their focus has remained on commercial applications, where robust, long-lasting sensors are critical. Julien notes the challenges in the residential market, including higher competition and the need for low-cost solutions, which differ significantly from commercial requirements.
The conversation also delves into the use of AI and machine learning to enhance data analysis and decision-making in building management. Julien explains how AI helps automate tedious tasks and provides actionable insights from vast amounts of data collected from sensors. He emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and the integration of various data sources, including occupancy and outdoor air quality, to optimize building operations. The podcast concludes with Julien highlighting the value of high-quality data and offering consultation to help customers manage their assets effectively.
Julien’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julien-stamatakis/
Julien’s company: www.AttuneIOT.com
This episode was recorded in June 2024.
In this Building HVAC Science podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser discuss their recent trip to Denver, Colorado, where they attended the U.S. Heat Pump Summit. They describe the event as a comprehensive gathering of professionals interested in heat pumps, covering technical presentations, regulatory updates, and industry developments. The summit featured various sponsors and exhibitors, including Daikin, Rheem, and TruTech Tools, highlighting the diverse industry support for the event.
Eric and Bill delve into the U.S. Heat Pump Summit details, sharing insights about the different companies and technologies represented there. They mention innovative products like Arctic Heat Pumps' air-to-water heat pumps and discuss the significance of proper system design and installation for optimizing performance. They also touch on networking opportunities, mentioning conversations with industry professionals and exhibitors, which provided them with new perspectives and information on the latest advancements in HVAC technology.
The conversation shifts to Eric's presentation at the summit, where he focused on the intricacies of heat pump performance and building thermal dynamics. He explains the importance of correctly sizing heat pumps and the differences between single-stage and inverter heat pumps in terms of comfort and efficiency. The episode concludes with Bill's experience at the Home Electrification Summit, where he moderated a session on making homes greener. They reflect on the growing interest in heat pumps and the evolving technology, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and curiosity in the HVAC field.
https://www.heatpumpsummit.org/#speakers
Video of the Summit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otQWXEg5WBA
https://hvacrschool.com/videos/what-is-openhvac-w-jason-price-ben-reed-michael-housh-chris-hamilton/ https://openhvac.io/aboutus/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishamilton27/
https://constructioninstruction.com/
https://constructioninstruction.com/tool/r-value-calculator/
https://www.communityhousingpartners.org/people/anthony-cox/
https://www.energizecap.com/about
https://www.energizecap.com/news-insights/home-electrification-insights
Anthony Cox’s Moisture App:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV5OBvu5PgQ&list=PLtlquUv1THEWOKlb80xStpZrzplvuGFLB&index=6
https://www.h2xengineering.com/features/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdbegley/
This episode was recorded in June 2024.
In this short episode, Bill Spohn provides updates on new products, presentations, resources, and interesting travel he and Eric Kaiser have been engaged with during the last few months.
LINKS https://www.youtube.com/@TruTechTools/videos
https://trutechtools.com/yellow-jacket/
https://trutechtools.com/jb-industries.html
https://hvacrschool.com/
www.betterhvac.org
www.building-performane.org
www.getduckling.com
https://www.zerohomes.io/
www.sealed.com
https://getconduit.com/
www.amply.energy
www.kwikmodel.com
www.diyloadcalcs.com
This episode was recorded in June 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Eric Kaiser welcomes Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Doors, creator of Home Service Expert, podcast host, Inc. Magazine Columnist, and author. Tommy shares lessons and speed bumps along his journey from his first job washing dishes, to growing a successful business.
Tommy emphasizes the critical role of profitability in sustaining a business. He talks about the need for business owners to charge prices that reflect the quality of their services and allow them to invest in their teams and tools. Tommy challenges the common mindset of underpricing services and explains how maintaining higher standards and prices not only benefits the business but also ensures that employees are well-compensated and motivated. His perspective on pricing and profitability provides a refreshing take on what it means to run a successful and ethical business.
In a candid conversation, Tommy sheds light on the importance of a solid support system and continuous improvement in all aspects of the business. He speaks about his reliance on mentors and advisors to avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Tommy's story offers valuable lessons and inspiration to help you achieve your goals.
Tommy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/
A1 Garage Door Service: https://a1garage.com
Home Service Expert: https://homeserviceexpert.com
Home Service Expert podcast: https://homeserviceexpert.com/podcast
Shop Tour of A1 AGrage: https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/a1-shop-tour
PinParrot: https://pinparrot.com/
Freedom Event: https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/freedom-event-2024
This episode was recorded in June 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Tony Mormino, the Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Insight Partners, an HVAC commercial rep firm operating in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Tony shares his journey in the HVAC industry, which started 25 years ago when he helped his father, a residential HVAC technician. Seeking a different path, Tony pursued an engineering degree and eventually transitioned into HVAC sales. The onset of COVID-19 pushed him into marketing as he sought ways to maintain customer engagement online, leading to his current role.
Tony explains that Insight Partners represents about 60 manufacturers in the Carolinas, providing sales, support, and parts for commercial HVAC equipment. They assist engineers with designing systems, offering various equipment options and supporting the installation and maintenance processes. Tony emphasizes their commitment to educating and empowering the HVAC community through online tools and social media. He highlights the importance of providing valuable content that benefits the audience rather than promoting the company directly, using interactive posts and educational materials to engage followers.
The discussion also touches on Tony's podcast, the Engineers HVAC Podcast, which aims to offer professional development hours (PDHs) to engineers, particularly those in New York and New Jersey. Tony and the hosts discuss the evolving nature of marketing and content creation, the role of AI in enhancing productivity, and the importance of authenticity in content. Tony encourages the HVAC community to give back and support each other, emphasizing the value of constructive feedback and mutual growth in the industry.
Tony’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-mormino/
insightusa.com/ (Company)
anchor.fm/engineers-hvac-podcast (Podcast)
youtube.com/InsightPartnersHVACTV (YouTube channel)
This episode was recorded in March 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Eric introduces Matt Akins, the Manager of HVAC Education at the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), as they delve into Matt's journey within the HVAC industry. Matt's career trajectory, starting as a dispatcher for an HVAC company at 19, took him through various roles, from technician to operations manager. His pivotal moment came when he compared his paycheck to a technician's, realizing the value of education and skill development in the field.
Through hands-on experience and formal education at a technical college, Matt gained comprehensive knowledge of HVAC systems and operations, from dispatching to troubleshooting. Despite the challenges and physical demands of the job, Matt's passion for teaching emerged, driven by a desire to share his expertise and improve industry practices.
Transitioning into teaching was a natural progression for Matt, fueled by his deep-rooted commitment to elevating the standards within the HVAC community. His multifaceted background equipped him with a unique perspective, allowing him to bridge the gap between technical intricacies and practical application. Through his role at ACCA, Matt now spearheads the development of training materials and conducts workshops covering a broad spectrum of topics, from system design to sales techniques. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of education within the HVAC industry, inspiring fellow practitioners to continually strive for excellence and innovation.
Matt’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-akins-66651a188/
ACCA Website: https://acca.org/home
This episode was recorded in March 2024.
In this episode of the "Building HVACScience" podcast, Wyatt Smith, founder and CEO of Upsmith, joined hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser to discuss his company's innovative approach to tackling America's skilled worker shortage. Wyatt detailed how Upsmith develops software aimed at enhancing productivity in the trades industry by using strategic technology to manage and improve workforce performance. He emphasized the importance of aligning employee behavior with company goals to drive profitability, especially given the challenges such as high interest rates and market uncertainty heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the podcast, Wyatt elaborated on the specific functionalities of Upsmith's software, which rewards tradespeople for their performance in real-time. This system not only increases productivity but also boosts morale by acknowledging and incentivizing workers' contributions. He shared insights on the impact of the pandemic, where many postponed home improvement projects were expedited, leading to a temporary surge in demand that pulled forward future opportunities, creating a more competitive environment for trades companies today.
Wyatt also discussed his personal journey from a farm in Alabama to leading a tech company, reflecting on the influence of his upbringing and education. He stressed the transformative power of technology in vocational training and workforce development, highlighting Upsmith’s role in fostering meaningful careers in the trades. The conversation also touched on broader industry trends, including the shift towards digital solutions to enhance service quality and employee engagement, underscoring the critical role of supportive technologies in the evolving landscape of skilled trades.
Wyatt’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-h-smith/
UpSmith website: https://upsmith.com
This episode was recorded in April 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Grant Gunnison from Zero Homes. The discussion kicks off with Grant mentioning upcoming conferences in Denver related to home electrification and heat pumps, which he, Eric, and Bill plan to attend. Grant shares insights on the complexities homeowners face when installing electrification technologies, emphasizing the time-consuming nature of getting familiar with new technologies and the challenge of finding reliable contractors.
Grant elaborates on the cumbersome customer journey in home electrification, from initial research to contractor consultations. He highlights how Zero Homes aims to streamline this process by simplifying access to information and reducing the need for multiple contractor visits through digital tools and comprehensive online assessments. The conversation touches on the significant growth in heat pump installations in Massachusetts as a positive market signal, yet acknowledges the broader challenges and long road ahead to achieve more ambitious installation targets.
The podcast concludes with a discussion about Zero Homes' business model and partnerships with contractors to facilitate efficient, cost-effective home upgrades. Grant shares the story behind the company's name and its focus on creating a zero-emission retrofit optimization process. The episode underscores the potential of technology and innovative business strategies to significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of home electrification efforts, reducing both homeowner costs and environmental impact.
Grant’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantgunnison/
His business website: https://www.zerohomes.io/
The conference we mention: www.HeatPumpSummit.org
This episode was recorded in May 2024.
In the latest episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and co-host Bill Spohn welcomed guest Enrico Bonilauri, an architect originally from Italy now based in the U.S. Enrico shared insights from a comprehensive study comparing various building standards across 50 projects to evaluate energy efficiency and performance. He discussed the differences between international and American passive standards and the standard American building code, emphasizing the need for builders to adopt high-performance building techniques.
Throughout the discussion, Enrico highlighted the challenges of aligning different building standards and introduced a scoring system he developed to assess various metrics like energy performance, air quality, and durability. He explained that the study took two and a half years to complete, involving detailed energy modeling to meet different standards. This extensive research aimed to demonstrate how passive building standards compare against others like Energy Star and the energy code, shedding light on the potential for energy savings and improved construction practices.
Towards the end of the episode, Enrico spoke about the practical applications of the study, including training and educating American builders on passive building techniques through his company, Emu. He emphasized the importance of hands-on training and creating a community among builders and designers to share knowledge and improve building practices universally. The episode concluded with discussions on upcoming training sessions and the availability of Emu's detailed study reports for public access, encouraging a broader engagement with sustainable building practices.
Enrico’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enricobonilauri/
His business website: https://emupassive.com/
Link to the study: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/9b6yzoqsppr2jafbaptmq/Emu-PH-Report.pdf
This episode was recorded in April 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast recorded at the ACCA 2024 Conference in Orlando, Florida, Eric catches up with Ed Janowiak from ACCA.
Ed and Eric virtually navigate the listeners through the conference, noting the mix of technical and managerial attendees. Ed emphasizes the necessity of technical knowledge in HVAC, especially evident in a conference setting. Eric and Ed reminisce about their longstanding acquaintance, having met at a previous HVACR symposium.
In this casual yet insightful conversation, Eric and Ed offer glimpses into the dynamics of the ACCA conference, showcasing the blend of technical expertise and business acumen. They underscore the significance of technical tracks in such gatherings and reminisce about their longstanding professional relationship, demonstrating the enduring connections forged within the HVAC community over the years.
Ed’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-janowiak-9bb3b734/
ACCA Website: https://acca.org/home
This episode was recorded in March 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jesse Smith, a carpenter turned HVAC enthusiast. Jesse, who has written an intriguing article titled "Lies, Damned Lies, and Manometer Readings" for Asterisk Magazine, shares his journey from carpentry to specializing in high-performance building and energy retrofits. His early exposure to energy efficiency through his father's work, combined with his professional evolution amidst the housing bubble, laid the foundation for his deep dive into HVAC systems and home performance standards.
Jesse discusses his experiences and challenges in HVAC, emphasizing the widespread lack of proper setup and calibration in the field, which he identifies as a significant issue affecting both indoor air quality and energy efficiency. His practical encounters, such as dealing with incorrect airflow measurements and learning about the critical settings of HVAC systems, underline his critique of what he sees as endemic incompetence within the industry. This incompetence, Jesse argues, poses severe risks not only to building efficiency but also to public health and environmental sustainability.
The podcast conversation also delves into Jesse's broader concerns about the construction and HVAC industries' stagnation in productivity and innovation since the 1970s. He calls for better education and accountability in the industry to overcome these challenges. Jesse's perspective is that of an insider calling for systemic change, advocating for the adoption of better practices and technologies to improve building performance and, ultimately, contribute positively to societal health and environmental goals.
Jesse’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-smith-59a54966/
The original article that drew our attention:
https://asteriskmag.com/issues/05/lies-damned-lies-and-manometer-readings
This episode was recorded in March 2024.
In this episode recorded at the ACCA 2024 conference in Orlando, Eric Kaiser interviews Wes Davis, the Director of Technical Services at ACCA. Wes shares his extensive experience at ACCA, noting his nearly two-decade tenure and involvement in significant initiatives like code hearings and contractor accreditation efforts. He humorously remarks on his career progression within ACCA, crediting his rise to the retirement of predecessors and finding joy in leading a talented team dedicated to advancing HVAC standards and education.
Wes details the core responsibilities and recent projects of his department, which include advocating for sensible codes, delivering educational programs, and promoting contractor accreditation. He emphasizes the importance of ACCA's role in developing and revising standards such as Manuals J, S, D, and T, which are critical for proper HVAC installation and maintenance. Wes also discusses ACCA's transition to offering standards online for free viewing, which is aimed at increasing accessibility and industry engagement.
The podcast touches on the dynamic nature of standard development, highlighting the open and inclusive process that ACCA strives for. Wes encourages industry professionals to participate and provide feedback on standards, stressing that contributions are vital for creating practical and effective industry guidelines. The episode concludes with Wes expressing appreciation for the opportunity to discuss these processes and encourage listener involvement in shaping the future of HVAC standards.
Wes’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesdavisacca/
ACCA website: www.ACCA.org
This episode was recorded in March 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosted by Eric Kaiser, guests Josh Crawley and Casey Prater from TruTech Tools discuss their experiences at the HVAC Excellence National HVACR Education Conference held in March in Las Vegas, Nevada. They share insights on the conference's focus on education and technology advancements in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the passionate learning environment and the evolution of smart tools in HVAC practices.
Josh Crawley, the sales manager for TruTech Tools, recounts his journey with the company and how it has evolved to prioritize customer service and technological advancements in HVAC tools. He reflects on the conference's emphasis on the importance of connected tools and how the perception of such technologies has shifted positively over the years, highlighting the industry's commitment to quality work and efficient problem-solving through technology.
Casey Prater, a newer member of the TruTech team, shares his personal takeaway from the conference, focusing on the enthusiasm and passion within the HVAC community. He appreciates the informative sessions, especially those involving visual demonstrations, which provided deep insights into the industry's future directions, including the transition to A2L refrigerants. Casey's experience underscores the industry's continuous learning culture and the role of innovation in driving HVAC practices forward.
Overall, the episode paints a picture of an industry at the cusp of significant technological transformation, underscored by a collective commitment to education, quality, and innovation. The discussion not only highlights the specific advancements in HVAC tools and practices but also reflects on the broader implications for workforce development and the pursuit of excellence in the field.
Josh’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crawley-20b41550/
NHETC Conference:
2024 schedule: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/eventschedule.aspx
2025 teaser: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx
This episode was recorded in April 2024.
In this engaging interview on the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed Jason Julian, owner of Julian Heating and Air in Arkansas, to discuss his remarkable journey and the evolution of his business. Julian's story is one of resilience and transformation, beginning with his entry into the HVAC industry as a recovering drug addict and felon in need of employment. His eagerness to learn and improve not only his skills but also the comfort and satisfaction of his customers propelled him from a temporary helper to a business owner dedicated to quality service and employee empowerment.
Jason Julian's company culture emphasizes continuous learning, quality workmanship, and a proactive approach to solving problems. He invests in high-quality tools and training for his team, aiming to be the supportive and encouraging boss he wished he had when he started. Julian's commitment to his employees and customers alike has fostered a positive, solution-oriented work environment where the focus is on delivering excellent customer service through skilled and knowledgeable HVAC solutions.
Despite the challenges of starting a business with limited resources and navigating financial obstacles, Julian has successfully grown his company by maintaining high standards for work and customer care. He attributes much of his success to the support and collaboration within his team, emphasizing the importance of seeing potential in people and empowering them to contribute to solutions. This collective effort and shared vision for excellence have allowed Julian Heating and Air to thrive, demonstrating the power of resilience, leadership, and a customer-first approach in the HVAC industry.
Jason’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-julian-03530b160/
Jason’s business: https://julianheatandair.com/contact-us/
This episode was recorded in February 2024.
In this podcast Bill and Eric interview their friend, Russ King, AKA Mr. Load Calcs from California. Russ has extensive background in HVAC, starting from his first job in 1988 doing load calculations and energy modeling for California's Title 24 energy code. He shares his journey from working with his mentor Marshall Hunt, through running a mechanical engineering department for a big energy consulting firm, to eventually starting a company with his son, Connor, and developing software: http://www.KwikModel.com in 2018. King emphasizes the importance of feedback from HERS raters and others on tested houses to improve design quality and advocates for contractors to be home performance contractors, focusing on both equipment capacity and house load.
Russ proceeds to introduce his new initiative, www.DIYLoadCalcs.com, aimed at empowering homeowners to be involved in the HVAC process by providing them with tools to understand and improve their home's energy efficiency as well as HVAC system performance by getting it designed correctly from the get go.. This service leverages modern technology to allow homeowners to scan their houses and submit information for load calculations to professionals trained in using KwikModel. The resultant load calc can be given to contractors along with a KwikModel file to refine the load calc. He highlights the importance of load calculations in identifying the correct size for HVAC equipment and improving home performance.
Throughout the discussion, King underscores the transformation in the HVAC industry brought about by technological advancements, making processes like load calculations more accessible and accurate. He expresses hope that initiatives like DIY Load Calcs will encourage more homeowners and contractors to embrace these tools, leading to better-informed decisions and improvements in home energy efficiency and HVAC system performance and occupant health and comfort.
Here is Russ’ blog: https://russellking.me/
Here are the posts he referred to in our conversation: https://russellking.me/2014/01/02/how-a-house-is-like-a-tank-of-water/
https://russellking.me/2013/05/25/why-we-need-a-simpler-hvac-design-methodology/
His Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-king-m-e-70342913/
This episode was recorded in February 2024.
Eric and Bill welcome Victor Hyman to the podcast. Victor is the Executive Director of Climate Care Cooperative, an Ontario-based HVAC contractors' cooperative focused on residential services. Victor explains that Climate Care has been operational since 1992, and he has been its Executive Director for three and a half years. He highlights the unique nature of a contractors' cooperative, detailing how it allows companies to share best practices, training, and financial benefits, likening the structure to a franchise system democratically controlled by its members.
Victor discusses the role of Climate Care in Ontario's HVAC sector, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the Canadian federal government's push for decarbonization and the promotion of heat pump technology through financial incentives such as the Greener Homes Initiative. He explains the regional focus of the cooperative's members in Ontario, emphasizing the province's clean energy grid and the impact of climate policies on HVAC practices and the adoption of heat pumps over traditional air conditioners. Victor also sheds light on the practical challenges faced by HVAC contractors, such as educating homeowners about energy efficiency and navigating government rebate programs.
The conversation then shifts to the strategies employed by Climate Care to communicate with customers and train members in understanding and addressing homeowners' needs effectively. Victor emphasizes the importance of preparing homeowners for equipment upgrades and promoting maintenance plans to ensure efficient and timely HVAC solutions. He also touches on the significance of leveraging utility data for accurate heat load calculations and the benefits of third-party endorsements in encouraging homeowners to adopt greener technologies. The podcast concludes with Victor sharing insights on the importance of understanding customer motivations and focusing on delivering comfort and cost savings, reinforcing the role of HVAC contractors as trusted advisors in the transition towards more sustainable home heating solutions.
Victor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorhyman/
https://www.climatecare.com/
This episode was recorded in February 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed special guests Ed Smith and Eric Fitz from Amply Energy. The group began by sharing their experiences at the recent HVACR school symposium in Florida, highlighting the significance of personal connections and shared knowledge in the industry. Ed Smith discussed his transition from operating businesses to co-founding Amply, driven by a desire to make significant impacts, particularly in sustainable agriculture and decarbonizing chemical manufacturing. The conversation touched on the growing interest in climate change solutions and the role of technology in advancing building electrification and decarbonization efforts.
Eric Fitz shared his background in mechanical engineering and his journey through the energy sector, which ultimately led him to co-found Amply. He expressed his passion for energy and building science, emphasizing the importance of advancing residential building systems to improve the overall energy system. The discussion then shifted to the practical application of Amply's software, which aids HVAC and heat pump installers by simplifying and speeding up the sizing and designing process for retrofit homes.
The episode concluded with insights into the electrification of the HVAC industry, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the role of modern technology in supporting this transition. Both guests and hosts stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation, and education in driving the industry forward, with a particular focus on improving HVAC design and installation practices through the use of advanced software and adherence to standards like ACCA Manuals J and D.
Ed’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716/
Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/
https://www.amply.energy/
This episode was recorded in February 2024.
In the episode Eric and Bill interview Chris Wisniewski, a high-end residential HVAC contractor. Chris shares his journey from having no initial interest in HVAC, influenced by his father's work, to taking over the family business after college. He emphasizes the importance of being in the field and understanding the technical aspects, leading to his interest in control systems and the evolution of his business from industrial to high-end and standard residential services.
Chris discusses the business's transition towards high-end residential work in the city (NYC), incorporating standard residential projects, and the challenges of adapting to different market demands. He highlights his commitment to quality, the struggles with business coaching programs focused more on sales than HVAC specifics, and his dissatisfaction with standard residential HVAC approaches. Chris stresses quality installations and the challenge of pricing them competitively without compromising standards.
Finally, Chris speaks on the recruitment challenges in the HVAC industry, especially the difficulty in finding dedicated and skilled technicians. He shares his company's approach to integrating new technology, providing value, and maintaining high standards. He also reflects on the importance of choosing the right customers and projects that align with the company's ethos, emphasizing that while it may limit scaling, it ensures the company remains true to its values and delivers high-quality, satisfying work.
Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswisniewskinj/
His business, ICS: http://www.icshvac.com/
You will also find him active in the HVAC Owners Group on Facebook.
This episode was recorded in December 2023.
In the podcast, Austin shares his experiences with sustainable building practices, particularly highlighting the initial venture into constructing a LEED platinum-level building to demonstrate that high sustainability standards can be achieved without excessive costs or complexity. He discusses the general approach where typical construction starts with existing methods and then adapts to earn additional certification points, which often leads to either more expensive or less effective outcomes. Instead, Austin advocates starting from scratch, focusing on creating healthy, durable, and efficient buildings that people enjoy living in, which promotes long-term sustainability beyond mere certification points.
Austin further elaborates on the success of their approach, noting how they managed to achieve almost all possible LEED points quickly by reevaluating materials and construction methods comprehensively. This process led to the realization that focusing on human-centric design and logic leads to better overall results, surpassing mere compliance with certification standards. He emphasizes the importance of creating buildings that people can connect with, which not only meet but exceed sustainability benchmarks.
Lastly, the conversation touches on the broader implications of their work, discussing how placing humans at the center of design and construction leads to more meaningful and sustainable outcomes. They critique the tendency in the construction industry to prioritize efficiency over human experience, drawing parallels to broader societal issues like the overemphasis on caloric efficiency in American food production. Austin and Lucas stress the importance of materials and building methods that respect both people and the planet, suggesting that a focus on human-first design inherently leads to better and more sustainable buildings.
https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/five-factors-of-good-building
https://www.valihomes.com/
This episode was recorded in November 2023.
In this episode of the podcast hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed Amit Gupta from AeroSeal, a company specializing in duct sealing technology. Amit shared the backstory of AeroSeal, which was originally founded based on technology invented by Dr. Mark Modera at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The technology struggled to gain traction under its initial ownership by Carrier, leading Amit, who was working at Carrier post-MBA, to see the potential for significant energy efficiency improvements in homes through duct sealing. Amit's passion for the technology led to the acquisition and reboot of AeroSeal as an independent company in 2010, focusing on sealing ducts, building envelopes, and potentially underground gas pipelines to improve energy efficiency and reduce waste.
AeroSeal's technology addresses the inefficiency and energy loss in buildings by sealing air ducts and envelopes with a patented process that injects micron-sized particles to seal leaks from the inside. This approach is likened to a "fix-a-flat" for buildings, aiming to significantly reduce energy waste and contribute to the net-zero energy building goal. Amit highlighted the vast potential impact of their technology, noting that buildings contribute to a significant portion of CO2 emissions and energy consumption, primarily through heating and cooling. By improving the sealing of ducts and envelopes, AeroSeal aims to address this inefficiency systematically, offering a solution for both new construction and existing buildings.
The conversation also touched on the challenges and opportunities in promoting AeroSeal's technology. Amit discussed the common acceptance of inefficient HVAC systems by homeowners and the industry's gradual shift towards recognizing the importance of energy efficiency and indoor air quality. The technology's application ranges from residential homes to iconic commercial buildings, demonstrating its scalability and effectiveness. Amit emphasized the importance of action and awareness in adopting such technologies to make a tangible impact on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
This episode was recorded in January 2024.
In this episode Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn review their experiences and insights from the 5th Annual HVACR School training symposium. They start by discussing the symposium's popularity, noting it had a cap of 300 attendees, indicating a high level of interest and engagement within the community. A highlight mentioned is a 12-year-old attendee, Atley D., who exemplified passion and intelligence for the HVAC trade, showcasing the diverse range of participants and the potential for young talent in the industry.
They also cover various aspects of the symposium, such as the focus on practical learning sessions, tool and instrument selection workshops, and the integration of home performance into HVAC businesses. These discussions underscore the event's comprehensive approach to professional development in the HVACR field, emphasizing both technical skills and broader industry perspectives.
Furthermore, they touch upon the importance of inclusivity and diversity, particularly the representation of women in the trade. A panel discussion on this topic is highlighted, indicating an ongoing effort to address gender disparities and foster a more welcoming environment for all professionals.
Overall, they saw a vibrant and dynamic community focused on education, innovation, and inclusivity within the HVACR industry, underscoring the symposium's role in advancing professional standards and encouraging new talent.
The launch of the #betterHVAC initiative (www.betterHVAC.org) happened at the event and underscores the concepts that bring us all together at the symposium Learn Continuously Do Ethically Share Openly
You can still get a ticket to watch videos of the sessions for only $26 here:
https://hvacrschool.com/events/5th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
In closing, our industry owes a debt of Bryan Orr for creating this community and to his team at Kalos and his family for making it all happen to the delight of the participants.
This episode was recorded in February 2024.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser introduces Ralph Wolf, a respected figure in the HVAC industry, known for his internet presence and contributions to the field. Ralph discusses his journey, emphasizing the impact of social media on his career and his current role in education. Despite his reduced online activity since joining Ferguson, Ralph's influence remains strong, reflected in his interactions with students who recognize and appreciate his teachings.
Ralph reflects on his career trajectory, highlighting his start in the Navy, which introduced him to sheet metal work and set the foundation for his future in HVAC. His post-Navy experience involved navigating various roles, from sheet metal installer to HVAC service technician, showcasing adaptability and continuous learning. Ralph also shares insights into the challenges and rewards of starting an HVAC business, underscoring the importance of realistic expectations and dedication.
Towards the end of the podcast, the conversation shifts to technical aspects of HVAC work and industry changes, like the refrigerant transition. Ralph stresses the need for technicians to adapt and adhere to best practices while navigating these shifts. He advocates for continuous learning and proper tool usage, noting the common reluctance among technicians to invest in diagnostic tools like manometers. The episode concludes with Ralph's humorous anecdotes from his fieldwork and his candid thoughts on personal and professional growth in the HVAC industry.
Ralph’s linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-wolf-3073b131/
This episode was recorded in December 2023.
Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn share their experiences and observations from the 2024 AHR Expo, a major event for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry held this past week (Jan 22-24, 2024).
Main points:
- There were thousands of vendors showcasing new products and technologies. We mention the educational sessions, standards committee meetings, and networking opportunities available at the event.
- New products and trends: We share some of the new products they saw at the expo, such as vacuum pumps from JB Tools, core tools from Fieldpiece, and a digital manifold from Yellow Jacket. We also mention the growing trend of electrification in the HVAC industry.
- Awards and events: We highlight the HVAC Tactical Awards, which recognize outstanding individuals in the industry. We also mention our own presentation on climate-resilient HVAC and an event TruTechTools co-sponsored with NCI, TEC, HVACRSchool, Sauermann, & MeasureQuick focused on networking High performance HVAC contractors from across the country.
- We also note several resources for listeners interested in learning more about the HVAC industry, including the Better HVAC Alliance, the MeasureQuick blog, Rewiring America, and the HVACR School Symposium.
We hope to give you a glimpse into the world of the AHR Expo and highlight some of the latest developments in the HVAC industry. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this important sector. Please consider attending if you can.
It’s the place where cool stuff happens!
www.AHRexpo.com
Other links mentioned in the podcast:
www.BetterHVAC.org
www.RewiringAmerica.org
www.GetDuckling.com
www.HVACtactical.com
The HVAC Tactical Awards Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_xB06pbe28
Climate Resilient HVAC presentation:
https://www.contractingbusiness.com/industry-events/ahr/article/21281376/2024-ahr-expo-climate-resilient-hvac
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 221:
https://webstore.ansi.org/standards/ashrae/ansiashraestandard2212020
MeasureQuick blog: https://measurequick.com/solving-our-labor-endemic/
HVACSchool Symposium:
https://hvacrschool.com/events/5th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
This episode was recorded in January 2024
Bill & Eric had a great time digging into the details of all things IAQ with John Ellis.
Our conversation covered a new air filtration product developed by John in collaboration with Dustfree.
Eric queried John on the applications for and design of the product. John with his 43 years of field experience, describes the collaboration with Dustfree's engineers and the development of this novel filtration system that employs all five filtration methods and has received ASHRAE 52.2 credentials with a MERV 16 rating.
John elaborates on the technical aspects of the filtration system, explaining the static pressure drops for different unit sizes and emphasizes the filter's long life of 2 to 5 years.
He also discusses how the product effectively addresses PM 2.5 and maintains its efficiency through a robust electrostatic component. He distinguishes this product from competitors, noting their shortcomings, and focuses on the unique features of their filtration system, such as even loading and a comprehensive approach to capturing various particle sizes.
A we wrap up, the conversation shifts to the practical applications and installation aspects of the filtration system. John shares insights into the design considerations for different furnace sizes and the simplicity of the filter box design, which requires either four or three filters, depending on the unit. He also mentions the flexibility of installation in various settings like attics, basements, and commercial spaces.
Ellis covers his distribution strategy, emphasizing the product's ease of transport and assembly, which makes it convenient for contractors and distributors alike.
Our conversation concludes with a discussion on building forensics and the importance of proper investigation and diagnosis in indoor air quality solutions, highlighting John’s extensive experience in the field.
John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-sme-b13b0411/
John is also very active in HVAC Facebook groups.
This episode was recorded in November 2023
Eric and I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Dominick Guarino the Chairman & CEO of the National Comfort Institute (NCI) about its mission to improve the HVAC industry through education and training. Here are the key points:
NCI's origin and mission:
- Founded in 1998 by Dominick Guarino and the late Rob Falke.
- Driven by the desire to improve comfort, energy efficiency, safety, and health in homes and buildings.
- Focusing on high-performance HVAC and the importance of measuring delivered performance.
NCI's activities:
- Offers technical training classes on airflow, combustion balancing, refrigerant side performance testing, and more.
- Develops and provides certifications, such as the only CO and combustion certification in the industry.
- Emphasizes the importance of communication and customer service for HVAC professionals.
- Helps contractors monetize their services by demonstrating the value they provide.
NCI's team:
- Composed of passionate individuals with industry experience and a commitment to high-performance HVAC.
- Key members include David Richardson (VP of training), Casey Contreras (trainer), John Perer (trainer), Al D’Ambola (trainer), Jim Ball (trainer), and Jim Davis ("Captain Combustion").
NCI's impact:
- Trained thousands of technicians and contractors over the years.
- Helped raise awareness about the importance of CO safety and proper combustion testing.
- Contributed to the development of modern CO and combustion analyzers.
Additional information:
- NCI has membership program with member benefits and a summit event every year.
- Eric Kaiser's first HVAC industry class was NCI's CO and combustion class with Jim Davis, which significantly impacted his career.
Dom’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominickguarino/
Learn more about NCI at https://nationalcomfortinstitute.com/
This episode was recorded in December 2023
Eric and I had a great time learning about Classset, a platform that connects skilled trades workers with potential employers. Here's a 3-paragraph summary:
Classset was founded by Cooper Newby and his co-founder Nick Jones, who were inspired by their previous experience recruiting blue-collar workers and their belief in the potential of the skilled trades. They saw a need for a platform that would help people learn about and access skilled trades careers, and Classset was born.
Classset offers a variety of resources for both job seekers and employers. Job seekers can find information about different trades, compare salaries and training requirements, and even build profiles showcasing their skills and experience. Employers can post job openings, screen candidates, and connect with qualified workers. Classset also has a focus on mentorship and apprenticeship programs, recognizing the importance of hands-on learning in the skilled trades.
Classset is still a relatively new platform, but it is growing rapidly. The company has developed a number of innovative features, such as the "Periodic Table of Skilled Trades" and a free applicant tracking system, to help connect job seekers and employers. With its focus on making skilled trades careers more accessible and attractive, Classset has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of many people.
AI prescreening and recruiter screening for candidates weeds out the 40% of candidates who are unresponsive so you only interview people who fit your 'must have criteria'. Companies simply funnel the marketing spend that they would put into other job boards and we manage all the ads and screening for companies. At the end of the day, trades companies and candidates are only getting busier so we want to make it as easy for people to connect and advance their careers.
Cooper’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coopernewby/
Other links we mention:
Classet Job Search, Apprenticeship search and trades school ratings: https://www.classet.org/jobs Periodic Table of skilled trades - short tik tok videos and salary/career exploration to help people explore the different trades: https://www.classet.org/skilled-trades-careers Video Skilled Trades Quiz to find your trades fit: https://www.classet.org/skilled-trades-quiz Classet handy helper - AI text bot - answer your trades questions via text: https://www.classet.org/land/classet-handy-helper?utm_source=blog Example of our pages answering questions about certifications requirements in each state https://www.classet.org/license/HVAC%20Tech/Texas 'Baseball Card' Portfolios for trades candidates - view pictures of trades projects and tradesman portfolios to stand out more: https://www.classet.org/projects?s=popularity https://www.classet.org/profile/11a599b9.
They have a free tier of our Applicant tracking system for companies. https://www.classet.org/for-companies
This episode was recorded in November 2023
Eric and I had the pleasure of interviewing Shawna Henderson, as self-proclaimed building science wonk: who works to keep it real in the field and make it real with online training for builders and renovators.
A unique thought she shares were her remarks on building science haiku: how structure, components and requirements can create thousands of variations.
Shawna, with 30 years of experience since 1992, is dedicated to energy-efficiency and housing. Her passion lies in building science, energy efficiency, and fostering collaboration for a sustainable residential construction industry.
As Blue House Energy's CEO, she focuses on online training for building science and energy efficiency. Their mission is to create quality online training for home renovation and construction pros, delivered through regional and national partners.
Under her Bfreehomes role, Shawna works on sustainable and accessible design projects, including deep energy retrofits and net zero energy homes.
She's an experienced presenter at conferences, with expertise in deep energy retrofits, solar thermal systems, and authorship of sustainable housing books.
Shawna's involvement extends to organizations like the NZE Coalition's Education Action Team, the Commission for Environmental Cooperation's Green Building Task Force, and CHBA's NZE Retrofit Working Group.
Specialties: residential energy analysis, barrier-free home design, solar home design, deep energy retrofits, plain language writing, and e-learning production.
Shawna’s linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnahenderson/
Shawna’s online courses: https://bluehouseenergy.com/
This episode was recorded in November 2023
We’ve kept Eric Kaiser, our Industry Engagement Manager, busy for the last couple years and especially in 2023.
Part of his busy-ness was related to traveling to various conferences, meetings and events.
In this episode, Bill and Eric chat about these experiences and how they help us better serve customers and the industry.
This episode was recorded in December 2023
Niek-Jan’s Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/niek-jan-bink-18b6203/
ACIN Products: http://www.acin.nl/
RETROTEC and ACIN at TruTech Tools: https://trutechtools.com/retrotec
Eric and I had the pleasure of interviewing Niek Jan Bink, a Dutch national who has been working in the HVAC industry for over 20 years.
He is the founder of Acin, a company that manufactures airflow measurement products.
PostScript after recording: Niek-Jan noted his personal friendship with Ben Walker and his colleagues at Retrotec and thanks Sam Myers for being a great ambassador for ACIN!
Over the years, Bink has traveled extensively to the United States for both business and pleasure. Key trips included attended the HVAC Symposium in Florida and has also visited his daughter, who played field hockey for the Champions at University of Delaware. (2016 NCAA National Championship.)
Niek-Jan shared with us how he is impressed by the open and friendly culture of the HVAC industry in the United States. He finds that people are more willing to give feedback, both positive and negative. Bink is also interested in the use of social media in the HVAC industry. He believes that platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook can be valuable tools for connecting with potential customers and colleagues.
Bink is particularly interested in the use of social media to share knowledge and information. He believes that this can help to improve the overall quality of the HVAC industry.
Overall, Bink is a positive and enthusiastic advocate for the HVAC industry. He is excited about the future of the industry and believes that it has a lot to offer the world.
Here are some key takeaways from the interview:
- The HVAC industry in the United States is open and friendly.
- Social media can be a valuable tool for connecting with potential customers and colleagues.
- Sharing knowledge and information on social media can help to improve the overall quality of the HVAC industry.
This episode was recorded in October 2023.
Eric and I had a great conversation with Louise Kellar, the National Training Manager for UEi Test instruments.
We share a lot of common ground with Louise on education and proper application in test and measurement. And in this interview Eric and Louise literally shared the common ground they were standing on during the interview which was conducted in the TruTech west studio in Indianapolis, IN.
We learn how Lousie’s work experience has perfectly tailored for her current role at UEi and what it is like to work for a large family business.
We also discuss how women are still underrepresented in the HVAC industry, making up only about 2% of the workforce.
And we settle in on a number of things that can be done to encourage more women to enter the HVAC industry, such as:
Providing more opportunities for women to learn about the industry
Creating more mentorship programs for women in the industry
Promoting the HVAC industry as a viable career option for women
The HVAC industry is changing and becoming more inclusive, and there are more opportunities than ever for women to succeed in this field. We also reference Jennifer Manzo and HVAChicks – who came on in EP 129
Women should not be afraid to pursue careers in the HVAC industry, and they should know that there is a supportive community of women who are there to help them succeed.
Louise’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-kellar-bbb659101/
UEi Test Products: https://www.ueitest.com/ECommerce/Default.aspx
UEi at TruTechTools: https://trutechtools.com/uei
Women in HVACR group: https://www.womeninhvacr.org/
This episode was recorded in October 2023
Eric and I agree: Tersh Blissett would win the best-dressed in HVAC award if there was one.
But beyond his dashing apparel, Tersh is a person of many talents.
As a visionary creator of the Service Business Mastery podcast (now with co-host Josh Crouch), he is a font of wisdom and inspiration that has been flowing since 2017 when he became part of Bryan Orr’s Blue Collar Roots Network with me (and this podcast) and others. While the Blue Collar Roots Network is now defunct, the spirit still lives on.
Tersh has a great entrepreneurial mind, building multiple profitable home service businesses that thrive in the small-town market of Savannah, GA. He is a constant learner, in both the technical and businesses aspects of his work, but more than that he is a great communicator of what he learns as he keeps a crazy schedule between his business, his podcast, his community work and most importantly his family.
He truly puts people over profits and teaches everyone from his office staff to his technicians to do the same.
Tersh excels in bringing the very best technology to everything he does in the HVAC
Tersh’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/
Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/servicebusinessmasterypodcast
This episode was recorded in October 2023
Listen in as Eric and I interview two of the leaders of Malco products and learn how they have become the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of “tools of the trade” for HVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning), exterior remodeling, and more.
Joining us is Rich Benninghoff, President & CEO, along with Rebecca Talbot, Malco’s VP of Marketing.
They share with us the rich history and promising future of a successful and well-run manufacturer.
In fact, Rich helped our team at TruTech better understand the principles and benefits of EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System which he uses at Malco- you learn more about EOS in Episode 137 of this podcast.
Post recording note: In the trade show part of our discussion, we mention Metalcon as upcoming, but it has already taken place in Oct 2023.
Rich and Rebecca share closing thoughts that illustrate how they keep an eye on the past, remembering how they got here, along with an eye on the future, for growth.
Rich’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-benninghoff
Rebecca’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccajtalbot/
Product Idea submission: https://www.malcoproducts.com/ideas/
Distributor resources: https://www.malcoproducts.com/distributors/
Educator programs: https://www.malcoproducts.com/educators-resources/
Catalogs: https://www.malcoproducts.com/catalogs/
Video Gallery: https://www.malcoproducts.com/videos/
Head of the Class program for HVAC and Building Construction: https://www.malcoproducts.com/educators-resources/
For information on the annual Trade Pro of the Year and Counterperson of the Year programs, be sure to sign up for the Malco Newsletter for the latest news. https://www.malcoproducts.com/mailing-list/
Want to connect in person, Malco will be at booth S7744 in Chicago, IL for the AHR trade show. You can always stay in touch with Malco on their socials, be sure to follow them on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.
This episode was recorded in October 2023
Another post on LinkedIn is what got this conversation/episode started.
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7104814299386171392/
Perhaps it was the architectural rendering of a piece of cake that caught my eye – well done Steven! (FYI as of this writing this post has 564 reactions, 59 comments and 45 reposts- that’s influence!)
Meet Steven Biersteker, architect by day and content creator by night. Here is his LinkedIn page:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-biersteker/
We explore a lot of topics in this episode including why Steven entered this field and how he got to where he is today. (My favorite part of every episode.)
Other notions we discuss:
Getting to low operational carbon is simple ... in theory. We are running highly efficient buildings on high carbon fuels. Citizens need to demand better and use energy smarter. Designing highly efficient buildings is critical, but so is low-carbon electricity and smart users.
We learned that he’s writing a book (ABCs of Carbon + Architecture) because he sees a big problem: There is a huge gap between the know-it-alls and the know-it-nots.
His book will be simple to read, digestible, and most importantly brief (see the book outline below).
And also see below for 10 important questions about low carbon design for every architect and builder to ask themselves/their client.
It’s on all of us to work together, you can make a difference. Be willing to ask questions.
This episode was recorded in October 2023.
Here is a sneak peak of the key topics in his book: CARBON LINGO - The Key terms you need to know GLOBAL WARMING 101 - The basics, nothing more SCOPING OUT CARBON - Who's scope are carbon emissions? MEASURING CARBON - How we measure this stuff WHOLE LIFE CARBON - Embodied & Operational Carbon LIFE-CYCLE STAGES - EN15978 - A1 - C EMBODIED CARBON - What's accounted for? MATERIALS - Emissions & carbon sequestering ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATIONS - The intro to Epd's OPERATIONAL CARBON - The basics of emissions ENERGY USE - How does energy impact GHG REFRIGERANTS - What's the issue with refrigerants? CARBON COMPARISON - So what is a ton of carbon anyway?
BONUS: 10 simple questions to achieve a low-carbon design.
- Does this building need to be built?
No - Great, you just saved the planet.
Yes - Move on to question 2.
- Does this building need to be built this big?
No - Build what you need and nothing more.
Yes - Move to question 3.
- Is there an existing building we could use instead?
No - Let's try and build the best new building we can.
Yes - Renovated buildings reduce embodied carbon by up to 70%
- Can we use a biogenic material as our structure?
No - Focus on less material and lower impact materials.
Yes - Stick frame and mass timber are great structural options
- Can the building be designed to come apart?
No - Concrete is the worst material for disassembly.
Yes - Steel and Mass Timber should be bolted for disassembly
- Can we fully electrify the heating & cooling systems?
No - Maximize energy efficiency through passive system design
Yes - Heat pumps will reduce your energy use by 3x's
- Can we reduce our mechanical system size?
No - Large mechanical systems are expensive to operate long-term
Yes - Use south-facing glazing and passive ventilation
- Can we specify biogenic insulation and cladding materials
No - Find the lowest impact insulation materials. Try EPS over XPS
Yes - Cellulose, hemp, denim, and wool are great insulators
- Do the users know how to best operate the building?
No - Make sure users are aware of the passive systems that reduce energy use
Yes - A great building that isn't operated well destroys the design
- Can we minimize the impervious site materials?
No - Large parking and sidewalk areas have a large impact
Yes - Grasses and natural areas create carbon sinks
Sustainable building design is complex, but there are some basic questions that will help make the most important decisions.
Eric and I had a great conversation with Cindy Zeis of Performance Systems Development, https://psdconsulting.com/, a company with the tag line: “Moving Energy Efficiency Forward” and description. We combine building science with technology to help utility companies, program implementers, and building performance professionals achieve energy savings.
This whole conversation was spurred by a post that Cindy made on Linked in about electrification programs and the need to get our priorities straight.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/electrification-programs-getting-our-priorities-straight-cindy-zeis
I was especially attracted to this paragraph in Cindy’s post:
In light of recent developments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other funding opportunities that promote installation of heat pumps and other energy efficient technologies, it's essential to emphasize the importance of considering a building as a holistic system. It's important to highlight the critical role of the building envelope and energy efficient components, such as lighting, in minimizing energy loads before sizing mechanical equipment. It's also important to incorporate third-party verification for both building and mechanical system performance.”
This episode was recorded in October 2023.
DEFINITION of Culture
Learned patterns of perception, values, and behaviors, SHARED by a group of people that are dynamic and heterogeneous. (diverse in character or content.)
I like having guests on the podcast share their journeys and important lessons learned along the way.
We explore these topics and more with Tim Destasio as he explains how he learned what he knows today.
From his start in industrial, ending up in residential and now combining building science, Tim shares with us his lessons learned and his perspectives on #betterHVAC
Tim is very active on LinkedIn, so follow him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-de-stasio-0618824a/
We spoke of “Corbett’s list”, well here it is: https://homediagnosis.tv/hvac-installers
Look for his HVAC course on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/user/tim-r-de-stasio/
His YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6U4wQe3DPYFFp4kiy_z0w
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
We had a great time interviewing the man behind the brand “Love2HVAC”.
Ty Branaman’s passion for all things HVAC education certainly comes through in every conversation and interaction we’ve had.
Ty has a lot of patience (and a small pointer finger thing) that help explain and highlight whatever topic is teaching at the moment.
He stresses the use of tools, measurements and your brain to help teach the invisible.
He encourages new instructors to “go for it” and be willing to make mistakes, but observant to learn from them.
He firmly believes teaching helps you be a better person, a better manager. You will learn more when you teach. (I whole heartedly agree, there!)
You will often find Ty on other podcasts, live streams, in conferences and at the HVACR School Symposium. This year he gave a great session on Educating and Training Gen Z https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHs9AD6wRz8
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@love2hvac
His website: https://www.love2hvac.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ty.branaman/
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/love2hvac
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love2hvac/?hl=en
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ty-branaman-cmhe-07604a33/
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
I’m not exactly sure when I got introduced to the concepts of EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System.
It was likely during my 12 week “crash course” in business with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program or 10kSB (https://www.goldmansachs.com/citizenship/10000-small-businesses/US/ ) – probably one of the 145 people in my National Cohort #6 mentioned it.
I read the book Traction by Geno Wickman in 2017 and slowly started integrating the ideas into the way we run TruTech Tools.
In the spring of 2022, I re-read it and presented to our leadership team. We decided to go full bore and started the process of adopting EOS company wide in the summer of 2022.
On today’s podcast I chat with our EOS implementer, Derek Pittak.
Derek shares the key components of EOS with us including dissecting issues, following processes and traction, the execution piece.
EOS has a lot of quick tidbits you can pick up. However, if this interest you, I suggest you get the book Traction and read it cover to cover or reach out to someone like Derek.
Derek’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-pittak-4b2ba86a/
Derek’s microsite: https://www.eosworldwide.com/derek-pittak
EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/
This episode was recorded in September 2023.
Eric and I had the pleasure of interviewing Josh Teekell, founder of SmartAC.com
Josh has envisioned, developed, and built a straightforward, EASY-to-install tech product that enables Smart Maintenance plans.
Josh describes the net result for HVAC and plumbing companies is for them to maximize their revenue by dramatically increasing their membership conversion rates, lowering customer attrition, and eliminating zero-fee truck rolls.
SmartAC.com is an air conditioning and heating (HVAC) health-monitoring platform that digitizes the experience of AC ownership, extends equipment life, and saves homeowners money by proactive notice of the need for HVAC maintenance, alerting users & service providers of a potential breakdown before it occurs.
The sensors monitor cooling and heating performance, airflow, air filter life, and drain lines to ensure the health of critical HVAC components.
SmartAC.com membership begins at just $10 per month. It includes a lifetime warranty on the hardware, daily system health checks, discounted air filters, active water leak monitoring, real-time chat with certified HVAC experts, and monthly system health reports.
10-minute set up, no tools, no wiring.
Josh’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jateekell/
https://www.smartac.com/technology
Learn more here where Ken Goodrich, Jim Bergmann and others tell you about the impact of this unique tech:
https://hvac.smartac.com/
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
Meet Robby Schwartz, founder of the BuildTank and the BuildTank Podcast who aims
Robby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robby-schwarz-b17b956/
I have been engaged in Applied Building Science, Resiliency and Sustainability, energy efficiency, Codes etc. since the early 1990’s. My experience is varied, including several years working as a commercial fisherman in Alaska, traveling the world, working in the construction trades, and then as a consultant with production and custom builders, code jurisdictions, private clients, and the Colorado Energy Office, amongst others. I started BUILDTank, inc. to be a practical building think tank whose mission is to use what we learn by applying building science in the field to affect meaningful change in the construction industry. To chase issues that hold the industry back and generate ideas and innovations that move sustainable building into mainstream building.
Podcast details: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/buildtank-buildcast/id1554383191
At BuildTank, a pragmatic building think tank, our mission is to use what we learn applying building science to affect meaningful change in the construction industry. The BUILDCast is the next step. Through conversations, we will learn something new from our guests’ story that could be the catalyst to take sustainable buildings to mainstream building. We will concentrate on the “story”. No two second intro, instead a deep dive into life experiences that create interesting lives and ultimately move our industry forward. Join me and learn something new from each conversation.
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
My guest today, Alex DeGagne’, is one of those very interesting people I have met in my travels in the last few years.
Alex is CEO & owner of MINOTAIR, a manufacturing company currently based in Gatineau in southwestern, Quebec, Canada.
His main product is the Pentacare-V12, a compact, ultra efficient air exchanger that incorporates a HEPA filter, and uses a self-contained heat pump to control ventilation, temperature and humidity in a home.
In his words: “Our PentaCare Series is a product using cutting-edge technology to care of 5 things: Heating + Ventilation + Air filtration + Cooling + Dehumidification. HVAC-D
It’s like 4-machines-in-1: 1- an Active Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilator with the highest SRE efficiency certified by the HVI for best comfort; 2-a Ducted Air Source Heat Pump; 3- a Dehumidifier; 4- a HEPA MERV 15 Medical-Grade Air Filtration device which can help greatly during wildfire smokes episodes.”
Alex speaks to us about science, especially building science, home construction and indoor air quality as well as the practical aspects of manufacturing and distributing such an innovative product.
Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-de-gagne-minotair/
His email: alex.degagne@minotair.com
Links mentioned in the podcast:
Minotair home page: https://www.minotair.com/home_us/
Ventilation info: https://www.minotair.com/ventilation-2/
Show info: https://www.minotair.com/visitus_us/
Where to buy: https://www.minotair.com/resellers-us/
Pentacare-V12: https://www.minotair.com/minotair-pentacare-v12_us/
Brochure: https://www.minotair.com/wp-content/uploads/MINOTAIR_PENTACARE_V12_BROCHURE_032019_EN_WEBs.pdf
Guide and Manual: https://www.minotair.com/wp-content/uploads/MINOTAIR%20-%20PENTACARE-V12%20-%20Manual%20-%20EN%20-%20Rev%20018B.pdf An overview of the ASHRAE 62.2 specification: https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/ashrae-standard-622-ventilation-and-acceptable-indoor-air-quality-low-rise
Alex’s LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-de-gagne-minotair/
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
Eric Kaiser and I had the pleasure of interviewing the man, the myth, the legend (and our friend) Jim Bergmann in this episode.
As Jim’s business has grown, there are a lot of new updates, activities and events happening and coming up soon. Go to the mQ site for more details, especially the resources page: https://measurequick.com/resources/
Some significant quotes and thoughts from the interview:
- Changing the culture in a company is hard to do; it must start from the top
- They don’t make products like they used to, or is it you that hasn’t kept up
- Manufacturers have refined their designs; installation instructions have serious details that they assume all techs will follow.
NEWSFLASH: The measureQuick 2.5 Public Beta is available now with guided workflows!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqSN23giepQ
Links mentioned in the interview:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bergmann-2968178/
www.MeasureQuick.com
https://measurequick.com/electrification-an-open-letter/
https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/technicalnotes/nist.tn.1848.pdf
Podcast with Kevin Hart of Haven: EP111
https://buildinghvacscience.libsyn.com/ep111-putting-the-v-back-in-hvac-and-why-you-should-care-with-kevin-hart-march-2023
UPCOMING podcast (EP136) with Josh Teekell of www.SmartAC.com
https://www.heatpumpsummit.org/
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
I’ve been meeting a lot of interesting people from the tech world in in the last year or so.
My new colleague at Duckling, John Hoehn, Shelby Breger at Conduit and most recently, Brent Davidson.
Brent has created the first US Heat Pump Summit coming up this November in Berkeley, CA- links below for details.
He defines success for the event as the attendees leaving with many new, meaningful connections. It is structured to have a contractor focus so attendees leave with tactical knowledge to begin using immediately.
In his words: “Everyone admitted to this conference is on the same team. Whether you got into this work for decarbonizing buildings or a good way to make a living, we all are here with the same goal - sell and successfully install more heat pumps.”
The event is hosted in association with the Eneref Institute, and will feature expert-led training from a building science based approach, broad knowledge across topics including how heat pumps fit into a customer’s home electrification journey, the future of the grid, and more.
You should attend if you work primarily in heat pumps or building electrification.
This summit's focus includes a few main areas: building science, smart tools, companies making heat pumps and building electrification hardware, software for sales and remote heat load estimation, companies connecting electrification customers with contractors, demand response tech, and HVAC pro’s in the field.
There’s a great list of featured speakers including my pals, Joe Medosch and Eric Kaiser. I’ll also be there broadening my network of connections.
Head to the website, scroll to the bottom and join the Summit Community for:
- Discounted tickets
- Articles on new tech for contractors
- Invites to Heat Pump Happy Hours
- Summit updates
Link to the Heat Pump Summit:
https://www.heatpumpsummit.org/
Brent on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdavidson/
Email: Contact@heatpumpsummit.org
Research Institute we mention: www.Eneref.org
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
This episode started in 2018. I have had the notion for quite a while (since 2018) of the need for a responsible contractor network or RCN.
This came up when my widowed sister that lives many states away was having trouble with her HVAC system in her home. She asked who I might recommend. I had no immediate answer.
I created a few basic principles of conduct, process, and integrity for RCN.
I even bought a domain and mentioned the idea a few times (at the HVAC School Symposium) and received some decent response.
Then I fell into other rabbit holes.
Fast forward to 2023 and I came across a list put forth by Corbett Lunsford: https://homediagnosis.tv/hvac-installers
“The List is a voluntary, un-vetted directory of HVAC Installers across North America who will trust and follow, or even perform in-house, design calculations (Manual J, S, and D). These companies have self-selected, by affirming the following questions:
- I understand that the first step in proper HVAC design is a Manual J (or equivalent) load calculation, targeting the 99% hottest and coldest design temperatures the home will be exposed to
- I understand that in more airtight, insulated, and ventilated homes the load may prove to be between 1000-2500 sq ft per ton of cooling
- If I follow the software-based design correctly, I understand that it is not my problem if the home is not as airtight as the builder or client told me it would be, and a simple blower door test can prove that any performance issues are the enclosure's fault rather than my HVAC installations”
Dang, he did it!
Then I scrolled through the list (now 51 strong) and saw someone in Pittsburgh where I live!
And that’s how this episode all started.
Oh, and Mat has a very interesting backstory that I think you will enjoy.
Mat Stone
Mat@home-mechanix.com
www.Home-Mechanix.com
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
PS we referred to Episode 21 with Ed Kisiel
Super tight houses using standard construction.
“Art and sweat built the tool bag.”
This statement summarizes my interview with Roger Brouard, the founder of VETO Pro Pac.
Roger shares with us the full story of his work life which lead him from a Fine Arts degree in Sculpture to becoming a carpenter and building wooden lobster boats – which is not an easy task, “it’s like making a zucchini out of wood.”
Roger describes frustrations in using various tool boxes and tool bags that became the impetus for him creating the VETO ProPac product line
Roger opines on how to become a successful inventor: solve a real problem, have solid conversations, believe in your product, have conviction.
"I wanted a name that would convey the quality and durability of our products. Veto is a strong word that means to forbid or to stop something. I wanted our customers to know that our tool bags were built to last and would never let them down.
After working as a carpenter for over 25 years, I became fed-up with the various tool-carrying devices available on the market. In my view, they all fell short: from metal or plastic boxes to soft-sided mason bags that hold tools in a horizontal pile up. In these configurations, unnecessary tool hunts result in “D & D” (dig or dump) and challenge your patience as you search for the tool you need.
Attempts at improving tool carrying and storing have been made over the years, such as pocketed fabric inserts that fit in and around a 5-gallon bucket. However, the “deep” pockets aren’t deep enough, tools stored in the exterior pockets are exposed making transportation and storage awkward, and a pile up of interlocking tools on the inside hint at the handicaps of the other bags.
Storing the loaded bucket in your truck requires a clear and secure area, and if not wedged or bungeed, “LFT” (Loose Flying Tools) occurs with sudden stops. It can be a real mess especially if the bucket bottom has become a catch all for left over nails and drywall screws. It is because of this long list of frustrations that I created VETO PRO PAC.”
Learn more about the company here: https://vetopropac.com/
Veto tool bags are available at a wide variety of wholesalers including: https://trutechtools.com/vetopropac
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
Jennifer Manzo is a powerhouse. I do not know where she finds the time to do all she does.
From running a HVAC business and raising a family in Maine with her partner Valentino Valeriani, to creating the HVAChicks Coalition to running a free tech support line (see below) and much much more, I really do not know how she does it!
In this podcast she mentions it is one of her goals to help save the trades by allowing people who cannot afford training to get into the industry.
Listen in to Jennifer’s inspirational story and I encourage you to connect and support her efforts.
Email Jennifer at misiftsofhvac@gmail.com
HVAChicks Tech Support: 856-390-4055
24/7/365 -- also on Facebook messenger
Misti: Sunday and Tuesday
Jennifer: Monday and Wednesday
Dirk: Thursday (Residential)
Valentino: Thursday and Saturday (Commercial)
Jimmy: Friday
Links mentioned in the podcast:
Now co-hosting the Misfits of HVAC podcast with Ryan Hughes,
Misfits of HVAC on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misfitsofhvac
Misfits of HVAC podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/misfits-of-hvac/id1678018673
SkillCat for free EPA-608 certification and free training.
https://www.skillcatapp.com/
HVAChicks on social media:
https://www.tiktok.com/@hvachicksjennifer
https://www.instagram.com/hvachicks/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/groups/812323020341191
HVAC In Recovery:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094781724166
This episode was recorded in August 2023.
(He blinded us with science) (Science) (Science) (Science)
Actually he spends a lot of time illuminating us with details about building science.
Join us as Allison Bailes, “a well known troublemaker and a general pain in the asterisk” shares with us the career path that lead him to form the Energy Vanguard.
You see, a vanguard is the group of people who are at the forefront of a new movement or idea. They are the innovators and pioneers who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
And yes, Alison’s business, The Energy Vanguard, moves the art and practice of well-applied building science forward by providing excellent HVAC design services, training, an awesome blog and newsletter and more recently a book!
“A House Needs to Breathe or Does it?, now available to TruTechTools, from the author and on Amazon, is a well written book describing the basic science of residential buildings.
While describing what is right, cautioning what is wrong, a few myths do get busted along the way.
Be sure you catch the discussion of the COVID Risk Reduction measures put in place at the Building Science Summer Camp Symposium in 2022.
Allison’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonabailes/
Links mentioned in the podcast:
The Energy Vanguard Website: https://www.energyvanguard.com/
Allison’s book:
at TruTech: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html
From The Energy Vanguard: https://energyvanguardstore.com/
On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/House-Needs-Breathe-Does-Introduction/dp/1958711128
The Blog: https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/
SIgn up for the Newsletter: on any page on the website: https://www.energyvanguard.com/
The Building Science Boogie Band: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkwlJZKQY0aFU6nmE5BL6Xw
Joe Lstiburek’s Building Science business with links to MANY Articles: https://buildingscience.com/
Bill Bahnfleth, Penn State University Prof: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wbahnfleth/
How to build a Corsi-Rosenthal filter box: https://cleanaircrew.org/box-fan-filters/
Also a modification called a Comparetto Cube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7eL2OAnqc8
This episode was recorded in July 2023.
Wes Davis joins us to provide some definitions, insights, and perspectives on HVAC Codes and Standards from his role as Director of Technical Services at ACCA - The AirConditioning Contractors of America.
We dig into details of the ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310, The Standard for Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems, published in June 2020.
The 310 standard was written mainly to help builders earn RESNET HERS credit for installing AND commissioning residential HVAC systems. RESNET HERS scores are given to new construction homes for a host of benefits described here:
https://www.hersindex.com/know-your-homes-hers-index-score/hers-index-understanding-the-hers-score/
Yet, the 310 standard, like the other ACCA standards, manuals, and publications (see links below), allows any technician or contractor to quickly assimilate industry and institutional knowledge from all the stakeholders that built, reviewed, and commented on the publications. This is a terrific way to build a better business.
We also touch on the vast array of other member benefits avail at ACCA, like MIX groups, advocacy, forums, and technical support.
A great way to immerse yourself and your business in this world of knowledge and connection is to attend the next ACCA Conference in October in Indianapolis: https://www.acca.org/accanextlevel/home
Wes’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesdavisacca/
Links mentioned in the podcast:
The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0312430000?
Link to Download ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/ANSIRESNETACCA_310-2020_v7.1.pdf
ACCA History: https://www.acca.org/about-acca
ACCA Full list of member benefits: https://www.acca.org/join
Contractor accreditation: https://www.acca.org/qa
ACCA Manual S, link to download and public review: https://www.acca.org/viewdocument/public-review-of-additional-modific
ACCA OnLine Store: https://www.acca.org/store#/storefront
Advocacy for the HVAC trade: https://www.acca.org/advocacy/government-relations
Educational info: https://www.acca.org/certification
Resources: https://www.acca.org/resources
This episode was recorded in July 2023.
Let me take you back to a time, long, long ago, when Jim Bergmann did not understand everything in HVAC.
Listen in as we delve into the story of Jim Bergmann and how the communities of HVAC, and more recently building science, helped to encourage and challenge Jim to become the HVAC guru that we know today.
From his self-described times of annoying the crap out of Bill Spohn, to his overlapping experiences as a contractor, educator, product specialist, TruTech Tools founder, iManifold designer, and mQ master…Jim has had, no he has created, a unique career ladder to find his reason for being.
We get into a couple of mQ topics including the new guided workflows (coming shortly) to the topic of data quality and data integrity that drove the need for paid tests.
Here is a cool quote from this Episode: “Don’t service the mistakes you sell.”
We finish up with some forward-looking advice Jim gives to contractors and equipment and tool manufacturers.
Links mentioned in the podcast:
mQ website https://www.MeasureQuick.com
Jim’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bergmann-2968178/
The Building Science Boogie Band: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkwlJZKQY0aFU6nmE5BL6Xw
Waffles Twitter account: https://twitter.com/mqwaffles
This episode was recorded in July 2023.
Connect and support: a kind and noble mission that can span all elements of humanity.
Connect in one way to understand.
Connect in a second way to bring information streams together.
Conduit Tech is developing a means of rapidly connecting technical information to help HVAC contractors excel - what a cool basis for the name of a new company!
In this episode, I am joined by Shelby Breger cofounder of Conduit Tech who explains the motivations and synergies that brought she and Marisa Reddy together to form a company that is creating a technology solution to save time on load calculations.
The software uses LIDR enabled iPhone and iPads to collect spatial details that are rapidly turned into a load calculation (think 15 minutes to a load calc for 2400 sq ft).
The speed and accuracy should impress customers with targeted comfort and sizing insights, 3D models, and detailed project planning.
They are in the early stages of product launch (a paid beta) with 50 users.
Links mentioned in the podcast:
Conduit Tech’s website https://getconduit.com/
Shelby’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-ann-breger/
Mariss’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisareddy/
Shelby’s email: Shelby@getconduit.com
This episode was recorded in July 2023.
A simple episode where Eric Kaiser (ELK) and Bill Spohn (OverKill Bill) riff on TruTech’s business philosophies: Core Values, Purpose and Niche and what kind of actions we take to put these words into action in the world. Also what we feel it means to be a good steward to the industry.
OH and cheer on #HVACLIFE team in the Maine 70.3 Ironman on July 30, 2023 featuring Chris Hughes (TEC-13.2 miles running), Chad Simpson (Simpson Salute – 56 miles bicycling) and our own Eric Kaiser – 1.2 miles swimming).
https://www.ironman.com/im703-maine
Links mentioned in the podcast:
Alabama Power training center: https://www.alabamapower.com/business/business-customers-and-services/hvac/hvac-training.html
RESNET 2023 Proposals: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/RESNET_Session-Topics_TOC_06-27.pdf
RESNET 2023 Session Voting: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YQ0ezGAXFrmdwdaRht8K1Ga9YdGZQ7OhP9yWQDoxMGU/viewform?edit_requested=true&pli=1
RESNET Conference: https://www.resnet.us/conference-2023/
Magazine article on Building Science Summer Camp: https://www.jlconline.com/how-to/insulation/highlights-from-building-science-summer-camp_o
Article on the 2022 United Association Event: https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104405-ua-builds-toward-the-future-with-68th-annual-instructor-training-program
TEC Train the Trainer Event: https://energyconservatory.com/september-2023-hvac-system-performance-train-the-trainer/
HPC New England: https://building-performance.org/events/regional/new-england/
This episode was recorded in July 2023.
This episode should be helpful to business owners.
However, anyone working IN a business should find it interesting to know more about one of the topics on the mind of many business owners: business succession planning.
After walking the walk of leading a $100M family-owned business through their transition, Laurie is now a guide to business owners providing a structured process to plan successful transitions of their companies.
Laurie hosts a podcast, Succession Stories (link below), has written a book: The Business Transition Handbook (link below) and is an adjunct professor of Entrepreneurship at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University.
I have both been a guest on her podcast and read her book.
Laurie has a tremendous depth of knowledge and experience and easily understood way of speaking and teaching on a topic so near and dear to her heart.
Laurie’s links:
Website: https://smalldotbig.com/
Podcast: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/succession-stories-podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZrCRoEBQhh-SP1BDwnhMZA/videos
The Business Transition Handbook: https://a.co/d/6HEY3Ap
Email: lbarkman@smalldotbig.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebarkman/
This episode was recorded in June 2023.
Brian Uhler calls himself a naturally observant builder.
This personal characteristic has served him well as understands the residential construction market with some keen observations.
Join as Brian explains how he came to learn about building science, later building it into all projects.
Also, hear about how he found this podcast by mistake!
Here’s cool description from of his brother’s YouTube that shows these traits run in the family:
The purpose of this channel is promote knowledge and education in construction. Here in the US, many of us don’t have any formal training or education in construction, but we learn through experience. My goal with this page is to promote learning and to that end I will show what I’ve learned over the years. I want to be very clear, what I show here is just a starting point. I am not claiming the tricks and methods I use are the best way to do any one thing, but rather are the end result of 20+ years of refinement with many more years to go. What I hope is that you as the reader/viewer will have an open mind and be willing to share your suggestions. Let’s all view ourselves as learners first, teachers second. Then all of us will progress together.
Brian’s links:
Website: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/
Contact: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/contact/
Brian’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/pioneerbuildersinc
His brother’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiDg_Mo6aJAOEnlGI4iilQw
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-uhler-48537577/
This episode was recorded in June 2023.
Listen in as Bill chats with… himself!
Again!
He shares some recent, personal and business encounters and discussions that left an impression on him.
We hope you find them interesting.
This episode was recorded in June 2023.
Trevor Matthews shares with us his fascinating life story: from the moment he shifted his life interests from travel and surfing into the trades and as it led to forming the Refrigeration Mentor a training, education and mentorship program for the refrigeration trade.
Some notable thoughts from this episode:
“You can get a handle on anything with your mindset.”
“Be prepared to pay the price in time and effort to get what you want.”
“Important small experiences you have become your own.”
“You need to put in the reps: reading and studying to reach your goal.”
“Stay Focused. Don’t drift.”
Trevor’s links:
Website: www.refrigerationmentor.com
Contact: https://refrigerationmentor.com/contact-us/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RefrigerationMentor
Trevor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejmatthews/
This episode was recorded in June 2023.
The 349 common connections Eric Kaiser and I share in LinkedIn speak a lot to the common perspectives we share.
Yet, it’s in the differences, in the weeds, where the conversation gets interesting.
Please welcome Eric Kaiser as TruTech Tool’s new Industry Engagement manager. And new co-host of this podcast.
We call Eric the ELK, his initials, to differentiate him from my Co-Owner, Eric Preston.
Let’s get to know him a little better in this episode.
Eric’s links:
Email: EKaiser@TruTechTools.com
Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/grapevinetv/
YouTube video on Entering the trades: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqsSiT5dnRk
The National Comfort Institute www.NCIhvac.com
HVAC School Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
The Energy Vanguard blog: Allison Bailes: www.energyvanguard.com
Building Science Corp seminars: https://buildingscience.com/upcoming-events-and-training
This episode was recorded in June 2023.
Jeremy’s been studying the details for many years.
Details like:
Building and energy codes are becoming more and more stringent.
Green building programs are driving more and more high-end construction.
Products and construction techniques are rapidly evolving.
He’s also paid attention to what is sorely needed and missing.
That's why he’s helped to define the full HVAC use-case: requirements, performance, technology, architectural integrity, installation, and maintenance.
Listen in as Jeremy give clues and hints on how we can all do better in HVAC design.
Jeremy’s business: https://www.hvacdesignpartners.com/ Jeremy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdbegley/
Links to the “order of Operations for Heat Pumps” blog posts
https://information.insulationinstitute.org/blog/order-of-operations-matters-with-heat-pumps https://information.insulationinstitute.org/blog/its-the-order-of-operations-with-heat-pumps-part-2
A couple of Jeremy’s favorite resources:
The National Comfort Institute www.NCIhvac.com
The Energy Vanguard blog: Allison Bailes: www.energyvanguard.com
Bryan Orr’s HVAC School: www.HVACRSchool.com
The Comfort Institute: www.comfortinstitute.org/
ACCA: https://www.acca.org/certification
This episode was recorded in May 2023.
Zac Reed, Product manager at Aeroseal, joins us today to share the technology, history and applications for Aeroseal products.
Aeroseal was developed in Dr. Mark Modera’s California garage in 1993.
For the first time ever, it was possible to seal leaks and holes in air ducts from the inside out. Up until that time, the only way to seal ductwork was messy, labor intensive, and not an option for most homeowners.
The simplest explanation for the Aeroseal process is fix-a-flat for homes: both ducts and the home structure.
Aeroseal’s mission is to help homeowners retain their “expensive air”: which delivers comfort, healthy air, and substantial energy savings.
Contractor’s interested in getting trained and becoming Aeroseal dealers can learn more about this and the products at www.Aeroseal.com
Learn more on Aeroseal’s YouTube channel: YouTube
Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-reed-060a46225/
This episode was recorded in May 2023.
Listen in as Bill chats with… himself!
He shares some recent, personal and business encounters and discussions that left an impression on him.
We hope you find them interesting.
This episode was recorded in May 2023.
Listen in as Bill chats with Ben Walker, the Co-CEO of Retrotec about a wide range of technology related topics from sensors to programming to AI-Artificial Intelligence.
Ben shares with us his experiences over his career in tech companies, primarily with Retrotec, one of TruTech’s major vendors of air tightness and air flow testing gear.
We learn about the history of the digital manometer at Retrotec, as well as the important topic of enclosure integrity testing and how to manage large building testing.
Other topics of note include the move to DC motors, rCloud an app based test data platform (and so much more), the long list of new features on the DM32X digital manometer and more.
Retrotec products: https://www.trutechtools.com/retrotec
THE ALL NEW Retrotec DM32X digital gauge: https://www.trutechtools.com/retrotec-dm32x-digital-gauge.html
Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walker-4a05901/
As Ben suggests, try ChatGPT yourself at www.openai.com
This episode was recorded in April 2023.
In this episode, Bill interviews Chris Stephens Refrigeration Business owner and Social Media Influencer extraordinaire!
There are so many nuggets to mine out of this episode, I hope you spend the time to listen to all of it.
Chris is truly a multidimensional person, not like in the SciFi way though where he can walk through walls.
His Big Picture concept, which he uses in all aspects of his life can be summarized as:
- Slow Down – Pause, allow you mind to catch up with where you are
- Take a Step Back - Think about what is going on
- Look at the Big Picture - Summarize the pros and cons of the various paths and decide if a short cut is worth it in the long run.
Additionally, we talk about:
- The lost art of evacuation
- The Genesis of the 2 social media projects he started/ is in: HVACR Videos and HVAC OverTime
- His personal home performance project/journey
- His perspectives on electrification
- And much more
Chris’ business: https://www.jvsrefrigeration.com/
Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-stephens-a414651a6/
His 2 YouTube Channels:
https://www.youtube.com/c/HVACRVIDEOS
https://www.youtube.com/@HVACOvertime
This episode was recorded in April 2023.
In this episode, Bill interviews Michael Rubino founder of HomeCleanse.com
We discuss the technical & business aspects of mold removal and where it fits in to addressing and solving mold problems in a home or building.
Michael is a forward thinker, having created his own mold remediation school for employees.
At the school, they utilize the concept of I Do, We Do, You Do, that is you must be able to execute like the company experts in order to graduate to doing field/customer work.
He is also author of The Mold Medic: An Expert's Guide on Mold Removal and a council-certified Mold Remediator by IICRC and ACAC and a contributing member, sponsor, and speaker for the Indoor Air Quality Association. We learn about how his growing up in the construction and remediation industry, influenced his current work.
Michael’s book:
https://www.amazon.com/Mold-Medic-Experts-Guide-Removal-ebook/dp/B08FPCTWNZ
Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelrubino88/
His website: https://www.themichaelrubino.com/
This episode was recorded in March 2023.
In this episode, Bill interviews Adam Mufich, AKA A-Team Adam.
You may know Adam from his video podcast, HVAC OverTime, which is a big collaboration he does with his friends Chris Stephens (HVACR Videos on YouTube), Bill Russell (Curious HVAC Guy on YouTube) and OT Joe (HVACR OverTime North on YouTube)
In their words: “We never sugar coat anything; we tell it like it is. If you want the real uncensored hot takes on the state of the industry, come hang out live every Friday at 9:00pm EST on both YouTube and Facebook.”
https://www.facebook.com/groups/775287052979835
Adam describes his personal journey in the trades, where is has gotten him and where he is headed.
Adam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mufich-5225055a/
Adam recently wrote a very interesting blog post we mention in the interview:
https://hvacrschool.com/dunning-kruger-in-hvac/
He’s also one of the hosts of the new Cooler Heads Podcast:
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-cooler-heads-podcast-103621990/
You should also check out the YouTube Channel of the celebrity guest Adam mentions, Big Clive: https://www.youtube.com/@bigclivedotcom
969,000 viewers with 2,100 videos – I’m pretty sure you will find something of interest!
Other links we mention:
https://www.hvac20.com/#/
https://www.youtube.com/@HVACUncensored
https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/
This episode was recorded in March 2023.
In this episode, Bill chats with Kevin Hart, the founder of HAVEN, a start up that makes a unique IAQ sensor/control system.
Hear from Kevin about his background as an electrical contractor and how he came up with the idea for Haven, as well as all the iterations the product has been through.
In the episode he describes RDCV: Residential Demand Control Ventilation and why it is important for contractors and homeowners to understand details on this subject.
Learn how a simple chemical compound that is found in most homes can convert to formaldehyde, a carcinogen.
Haven Website: https://haveniaq.com/
Haven for sale at TruTech Tools: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven
Haven 22 is the DISCOUNT CODE for this product: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven-central-air-monitor.html which is for Pros to use to get a product to install for customers or in their own homes.
Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrhart/
Kevin’s email: kevin@haveniaq.com
Here’s a link to Grace and Corbett Lunsford’s HOMECHEM videos we mentioned:
http://bit.ly/HOMEchem
This episode was recorded in March 2023.
In this episode, Bill explains some of the activities that are keeping him bust lately
The National HVACR Education Conference https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx
The National Home Performance Conference
https://building-performance.org/events/national/
The National Comfort Institute (NCI) HVAC Summit
https://www.gotosummit.com/sessions/
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business FREE educational program
https://www.10ksbapply.com/
This episode was recorded in March 2023.
What’s it like to build a tech product from the ground up?
How do you validate that a market exists?
What tools can you use to gain confidence that you are on the right track?
In this week’s podcast, Bill Spohn is joined by John Hoehn, CEO of Duckling.
Duckling’s mission is to help contractors help their customers on their journey to electrifying their homes.
John and his co-founder, Sudeep Yegnashankaran have deep backgrounds in software development. They have been working on Duckling over the last two years and are now recruiting their first customers.
Bill is honored to join their team as an advisor alongside Elliott Trice, who brings decades of experience in tech product development and design.
Keep your eyes open and ears peeled for what Duckling hatches in the coming year!
In full disclosure, Bill has a small financial interest in Duckling.
Duckling website: www.getduckling.com
Results from the contractor survey conducted in late 2022:
https://bit.ly/HVAC-electrify
Duckling one-page overview: https://bit.ly/Duckling-1-23
Are you a contractor interested in being a design partner with Duckling?
Fill out this quick form: https://bit.ly/Duckling-EAP
Electrification Panel Discussion at the 2023 HVAC School Symposium featuring Kimberly Llewellyn, Jim Bergmann and Bill Spohn* https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/electrification-panel/
- a small fee will gain you access to all recorded sessions from the Symposium for a limited time.
Learn more about Steve Blank, who guidance John mentions in the podcast:
https://steveblank.com/books-for-startups/
This episode was recorded in February 2023.
What do we do with our time?
What did I do with my time in the last week?
The Bangles said it best:
… Time, time, time
See what's become of me
While I looked around for my possibilities
In this episode, Bill is joined by Eric Kaiser where they share observations on products and events and the interesting people they engaged with during their 4 day excursion to the AHR Expo 2023.
The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/
SUPCO TradeFox site and application: https://www.supcotradefox.com/
TruTech TradeFox page: https://www.trutechtools.com/supco-trade-fox.html
Diversitech TradeInvent application: https://info.diversitech.com/tradeinvent-by-diversitech
ASHRAE Standard 221: https://hvactoday.com/ashrae-221/
REFCO Inverter Checker: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Inverter-Check-Kit-wData-Flow-Monitor_p_4930.html
REFCO Gobi Condensate pump: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Gobi
REFCO Combi Condensate Pump: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-COMBI-Condensate-Removal-Pump-Universal-Voltage
REFCO Karoo Condensate pump https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Karoo
JB Climate Class probes: https://www.trutechtools.com/jb-climate-class.html
Sauermann Combustion Analyzers: https://www.trutechtools.com/sauermann-combustion-analysis.html
This episode was recorded in February 2023.
In this episode, Bill explains some of the activities that have kept him busy in the first few weeks of 2023.
The HVACR Symposium:
https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/
The AHR Expo:
https://www.ahrexpo.com/
Installing a new operating system at TruTech Tools: EOS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpXL2SGfkBc
https://www.eosworldwide.com/
This episode was recorded in February 2023.
Today, I feel very in tune with this podcast’s stated mission:
Building HVAC Science covers a broad array of topics in building science and HVAC diagnostics, as well as human comfort, health, and safety….; this show will take a deep dive into all things that relate to buildings and people in the built environment.
I was very fortunate to interview Dr. Joe Allen, an esteemed Indoor Air Quality researcher, presenter, and author, as we covered what Joe has observed and educated us on regarding the collision between two disciplines: building science and health science.
Joe shares his observations, strategies, and tactics that are moving us toward an era where buildings go beyond doing no harm to occupants but focus more on maximizing the benefit to the occupants.
Joe joins the growing list of people on this podcast who talk (all or in part) about indoor air quality or healthy buildings: Dr. Stephanie Taylor, Dr. Bill Bahnfelth, Joe Medosch, Larry Zarker, Nate Adams, Jason Earle, Cheryl Cieko, Dawn Oggier, Brian Kennihan, Ereland Bolle, Casey Grey, Ray Wu, Ben Reed, Kaleb Saleeby, Steve Pascuzzo, Big Clive, Ty Newell, Dick Kornbluth, and Jaques Touillion, amongst others.
Joe Allen’s links:
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephgardnerallen/
Harvard Faculty page:
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/joseph-allen/healthy-buildings/
Kicking off the first White House Summitt on Indoor air quality in Nov 2022:
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/healthybuildings/2022/10/13/dr-joseph-allen-presenting-at-white-house-summit-on-indoor-air-quality/
Healthy Buildings book on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Buildings-Indoor-Performance-Productivity/dp/0674237978
9 Foundations website:https://9foundations.com/
Follow Joe on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/j_g_allen
Tune up buildings article:https://deohs.washington.edu/hsm-blog/how-giving-our-buildings-tune-can-make-us-healthier
36 Tips for a healthier home:
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/36-expert-tips-for-a-healthier-home/
This episode was recorded in January 2023.
For several years, in southern Maine, a small group of building professionals have been getting together monthly to discuss building science.
Many topics are brought up for discussion: high performance windows, venting cathedral ceilings, moisture migration in wall assemblies, slab on grade details, etc. The conversation is informal and roams a bit.
At one of those meetings, one of my guests today, builder, Dan Kolbert, expressed frustration with the status quo, and even more frustration with the various rating systems that had him jumping through many hoops to prove that his work was in fact “green” and energy efficient.
Some find these systems costly in time and money and doing little to advance the project. Rather they are simply certifying them. So Dan simply stated, “I just want to build a pretty good house.”
That’s where this story begins….
https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/insulation/is-a-pretty-good-house-good-enough
https://www.thebsandbeershow.com/
https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/
https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/pgh-20
This episode was recorded in December 2022.
Today’s guest, Anna Desimone has done an awesome job compiling resources for consumers to learn about factors, features and benefits of building an Energy Efficient home.
Anna is author of Live in a Home that Pays You Back--A Complete Guide to Net Zero and Energy Efficient Homes, featuring national building programs in the U.S. and Canada.
This is not a technical deep dive, but more of a consumer reference for understanding the blueprints of Building Envelope, Thermal enclosure, HVAC, Lighting and appliances, water management and more.,
Winner of three national book awards, Anna lights the way for understanding the home buying and financing process. She has written more than 40 professional handbooks on the topic of fair and responsible lending, and often serves as industry expert on news media.
Links for more about Anna and her books:
https://annadesimone.net/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annadesimone/
https://www.amazon.com/Live-Home-that-Pays-Back/dp/1039123481
https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Live_in_a_Home_that_Pays_You_Back_A_Complete_Guide
This episode was recorded in December 2022.
My three esteemed guests/amigos shed some light on common misconceptions in the HVACR industry.
We talk about fun topics like:
- Heatpumps are only for the south of the Mason-Dixon line
- A1 refrigerants are Non-Flammable
- A2L refrigerants are Flammable
- R32 is a replacement for R410a
- Reclaimed refrigerant does not have any value
- SEER2 has taken us by surprise
- Equipment brand names determine the quality, performance and longevity of service
Link to the Esco Group website: https://www.escogroup.org/
Link to the National HVACR Education Conference: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx
Their video channel: https://www.youtube.com/@escogroup
Email Addresses for our guests:
Clifton Beck: cbeck@escogroup.orgJason Obrzut: jobrzut@escogroup.org
Eugene Silberstein: eugene@escogroup.org
The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/
This episode was recorded in December 2022.
Listen in as Phil Zito describes the journey he has taken from being bored, to blogging to building a business that provides top notch online training and workforce development programs.
Formerly known as Building Automation Monthly, a newsletter and podcast in its early years, The Smart Buildings Academy has experienced rapid growth.
As the SBA says on their website: “If you’ve been looking for a way to take yourself or your building automation team to the next level. Then you’re in the right place. One of SBA’s guiding principles is to “Focus on the customer’s profit”.
Phil understands from personal experience the importance of focusing on training that not only develops BAS knowledge but also teaches how to “do” building automation in a way that is profitable and efficient.
If you are a BAS professional looking to grow your skills or looking to enter the BAS field, you owe it to yourself to check out the SBA.
Phil’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipzito/
Smart Buildings Academy:
website: https://www.smartbuildingsacademy.com/
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildingautomationmonthly
LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/3582469/
Oh, Phil also interviewed ME on his podcast recently:https://podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.com/387
This episode was recorded in December 2022.
I was thrilled to get the opportunity to interview Shawn McLaughlin, after having been impressed with the simplicity and value of using an Emporia Vue Energy Monitor for a year or so before I met him.
Shawn shares with us his back story that led him from commodities trader to company builder: designer and manufacturer of a suite of powerful, yet inexpensive products used for smart home energy management.
Learn some new acronyms that you will be hearing more of in the future, such as disaggregation, FERC and DERM as we hear of his vision for building the world’s largest virtual power plant (VPP) and his progress along that goal.
Shawn is a man of quiet confidence coupled with courage and enthusiasm. I think you will enjoy this conversation.
His LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-mclaughlin-86249215b/
Emporia Energy website: https://www.emporiaenergy.com/
This episode was recorded in November 2022.
I met Griffin at the http://www.HabitatX.com conference several years ago and found him to be thoughtful, insightful and a quiet but powerful champion of the principles he believes in.
In todays’ podcast we discuss electrification in Alaska, the deep retrofit work Griffin is doing on his own home and several other topics.
Read one of Griffin’s posts from the HabitatX Journal: https://medium.com/habitat-x-journal/thats-building-performance-bfdb2646ba53
From his LinkedIn Bio: Affordable housing executive and energy transition observer with extensive experience on the Arctic Slope of Alaska.
His LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/griffin-forster-480a1b1a/
This episode was recorded in October 2022.
Adam is a man full of energy and drive and is always eager to help.
Listen in as Adam describes the arc of his career that started in political activism and currently involves him in software, home decarbonization and net zero retrofits.
Adam shares his insights into the cost vs. benefits of measures as well as a future job classification; Home Project Advisor
Adam’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstenftenagel/
Info on The Geos project: www.DiscoverGEOS.com
Info on SnuggHomePro: www.SnuggPro.com
Info on Radiant Labs: www.RadiantLabs.co
This episode was recorded in October 2022.
Katelyn Woodling joins us on today’s podcast to discuss the background and development of Bosch IDS Heat Pumps (Inverter Ducted Split).
Katie is the manager of Product management for Bosch Heating and Cooling, North America and works out of the greater Boston area.
Bosch watched market and regulatory trends, listened to customer input, and spent countless hours in the lab testing and perfecting their heat pumps to offer inverters for all.
Bosch is achieving a simplified product line with terrific tech support and contractor training.
Katie also shares with us some insights into future trends.
Katie’s Linked In profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-woodling/
Info on Bosch IDS products:
https://www.bosch-thermotechnology.us/us/en/ocs/residential/inverter-ducted-split-family-ids--18527266-p/
This episode was recorded in October 2022.
If you are in HVAC, Home Performance, IAQ or follow “electrification” and you HAVEN’T heard of Nate Adams, you will do yourself good to listen to this podcast or follow some of the links below.
Oh, and we did not get into the awesome AirBnBs he and his wife Rachel have created:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/613585624792425971?source_impression_id=p3_1666127682_6kZMNcYeUIBpWHPr
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/689091116595593514?source_impression_id=p3_1666127730_%2BjEglaesD2Edl9UC
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/654543526549837867?source_impression_id=p3_1666127781_WAzpzge25vf2Dsjd
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44685918?source_impression_id=p3_1666127806_0YbmI9pK0QhZadsQ
HVAC 2.0
https://www.hvac20.com/#/
HVAC 2.0 videos
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNXmHUxNpoa_DiC54VxkJjg
The Home Comfort book (4 free chapters):
https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/
The Electrify Everything course:
https://nate-the-house-whisperer.ck.page/1786fbdf5a
Nate’s YouTube library: Many related topics
https://www.youtube.com/c/NatetheHouseWhisperer
Policy paper on Heat Pump Adoption
https://www.clasp.ngo/research/all/3h-hybrid-heat-homes-an-incentive-program-to-electrify-space-heating-and-reduce-energy-bills-in-american-homes/
This episode was recorded in October 2022.
“A day in the life of a smart building. Now spaces have memory and identity.”
Now more than ever, facility owners and managers are incorporating smarter and more connected building technologies to improve proactive maintenance, reduce energy use, and create operational efficiencies.
On todays’ podcast, Vineet Sinha, VP of Product management at Johnson Controls joins us to shed light on how connected building systems are operating holistically and working together to create a truly smart environment.
Buildings of the future are here today and can do all this. It sounds complex, but these smart buildings cost a lot less to run and use fewer resources, all while ensuring indoor spaces are clean and safe.
In this discussion, we walk listeners through a day in the life a smart building from the perspective of an everyday occupant and explain how connected technologies enable an experience that makes people feel comfortable, safe and in control.
Vineet shares with us definitions of a building persona and how building are moving to cognition of the occupants.
You can connect with Vineet on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinhavineet/
Learn more about JCI’s Open Blue Solutions at:
https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/openblue
This episode was recorded in Oct 2022.
“Making building IAQ better is a long-term process.”
“We had all the answers before the COVID-19 pandemic, we just didn’t implement them.”
Bill Bahnfleth has a long and distinguished career as a professor of architectural engineering at Penn State University, a consulting and for the US Army Corps of Engineers.
In early 2020, ASHRAE tapped him to become the chair of a rare emergency task force to address managing IAQ in buildings considering the COVID-19 pandemic.
We will hear from Bill as he discusses how one puts together and manages a 120-person task force in such a short period of time.
Bill also discusses several of the myths that needed to be busted along the way.
He also shares with us his passion for music and the parallels his mastery of music has with his mastery of engineering: the fundamentals applied creatively, the art and the craft.
Some of the resources mentioned include:
ASHRAE Guides for COVID-19:
https://ashrae.org/technical-resources/resources
The ASHRAE design guides:
https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/bookstore/ashrae-design-guides
ASHRAE 62.1
https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/bookstore/standards-62-1-62-2
EPA Guides to IAQ:
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/publications-about-indoor-air-quality
This episode was recorded in September 2022.
Previously a commercial diver working offshore on all work below the water line Bill now works a lot around the dew point.
Bill’s roots are in residential construction, yet when he returned to that field he
realized he lacked sufficient training he became a sponge for knowledge.
He’s spent many hours working at the LSU AgCenter work on rebuilding initiatives after Hurricane Katrina.
In this episode he describes the LA House and the challenges to building in the hot humid climate he lives in.
Check out Bill’s website at: www.Train2Build.com
And follow him on social media via:
Instagram — Bandanna Bill
Instagram — 504 Historic Windows
Facebook — Train2Build
YouTube — Train2Build
For more info on the LA House:
https://lsuagcenter.com/topics/family_home/home/lahouse
“A science-based showcase of solutions to shape your future with resilient, healthy and efficient homes.”
This episode was recorded in September 2022.
In this episode with Ben Poole, a 3rd generation HVAC contractor and founder of HVAC Tactical, we hear a lot about motivation and mindset.
“It’s you who decides who you want to be.”
Ben runs Trusted Heating and Cooling in Austin, TX, yet found time to start the HVAC Tactical Apparel brand as he was searching for a new challenge.
You can easily hear from Ben how he practices what he preaches, lays out a plan, and acts on it never letting self-doubt creep in.
And in 2020 he doubled down and created the first “Emmy-type” awards for amazing craftsmanship called the HVAC Tactical Awards.
The HVAC Tactical Awards Show follows the AHR Expo and will be held for the third time on February 5th, 2023 in Atlanta, GA.
250+ people are expected to attend this black-tie event which will include most of the HVAC influencers across all social media platforms.
The event will also be livestreamed, as it was in 2022.
You can reserve tickets or nominate someone for the award at this link:
www.hvactactical.com/hvac-tactical-award/
Learn more Ben’s amazing apparel brand at www.hvactactical.com/
This episode was recorded in August 2022.
The best way to describe Brett Dillon, it the quote his LinkedIn profile:
“I am an entrepreneur.
Intensely curious, I transform industries because I see connections that others don't, relentlessly pursue better ways of doing things, and then use my influence to effect the desired change.
My action-oriented background and experience provides understanding in a broad range of subjects, and deep understanding in residential construction and building science.
An international award-winning former homebuilder, pro-wrestler, security consultant, and surveillance operative, I lead our team to provide unique and elegant solutions.”
In the podcast Brett describes how he is weaving together existing advanced methods for energy rating using a different approach.
Listen in as this intellectual ferret describes how is company aims to “help clients build better businesses that build better lives.”
Learn more about the Building Science Institute:
https://buildingscienceinstitute.org/
You can also connect with Brett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettdillon01/
This episode was recorded in August 2022.
Ray Wu, founder of WYND joins us to stress the importance of an optimal air quality by utilizing modern, innovative technology.
But not just technology alone, Wynd uses the subsequent data to inform IAQ decisions, allowing consumers and building managers across industries to realize a healthier, cleaner tomorrow.
Ray backs up these claims with case studies, in particular one run in a Las Vegas hotel.
Wynd also makes their own UV laser particle sensors which yield enhanced capaiulites that Ray describes.
Check out the Wynd products at the link and article below.
https://hellowynd.com/pages/shop-for-business
https://commercialobserver.com/2022/07/wynd-technologies-sentry/
You can also connect with Ray on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymondwu8/
This episode was recorded in August 2022.
Better Marketing for Better Building Companies- Creating Leads, Lifting Conversions Driving Growth.
That’s the motto of the Energy Circle, the brainchild of our guest today, Peter Troast, a rare marketer who’s taken technical training in building science, a central topic amongst most of his clients. He’s also upgraded his office space for better IAQ and he monitors it.
The Energy Circle has been in business for 12 years, and I have known Peter for nearly that whole time.
We even started a “Mastermind Group” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastermind_group) several years ago with 2 other business owners in this market.
We chose TUG as the unglamorous name of our group - The Unnamed Group - as our purpose was simply to connect, yet encourage and pull each other a long
Simple, yet effective helpful connections are what drives Peter’s company: I think of his 25 person team as data driven, expert communicators who are focused on service contractors in HVAC, home performance, solar and insulation – all key trades in the built environment.
If these topics interest you in the least, please take a few minutes and read a few posts from the EC blog or watch a free live or recorded EC webinar. You will walk away informed, if not inspired.
Peter is smart, kind, loyal and very hard worker – plus his knows his shit.
Peter’s email:
peter@energycircle.com
His company website:
www.energycircle.com
This episode was recorded in August 2022.
“Who is that guy and what did he just do?”
My first formal introduction to Keith was shortly after he crashed his drone into a tree at the HVAC Symposium in Florida a couple years ago.
While we did not discuss the drone incident in this podcast, we had a wide-ranging conversation that I thoroughly enjoyed, and I hope you will too.
Keith is one of the most unique and fun people I know in the HVAC world.
From his hobbies to his projects to the disciplines he employs in his personal and professional worlds, I think he leads quite an eclectic life.
This episode is peppered with Keith’s life experiences, life hints and life hacks
More info on the NERDS The podcast: that we mention:
Linktree:www.linktr.ee/nerdsthepodcast
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/NerdsThePodcast
IG: www.instagram.com/nerdpodcast/
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/NerdsThePodcast
Gmail: NerdsthePodcast@gmail.com
On Apple podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nerds/id1373170000
Keith’s Email:
kkeller@navacglobal.com
This episode was recorded in July 2022.
If you weren’t aware up to now, I am very passionate about Home Performance.
So passionate, that I volunteer my time as a board member of, and now, Treasurer of the Building Performance Association or BPA.
Among many other things, BPA runs a series of excellent trade shows call Home Performance Conferences (HPCs) (formerly called the Affordable Comfort Conference that started in the late 1980s).
It was at a recent HPC that I heard several people remark that they were not clear on what exactly BPA was.
To overcome this lack of clarity, I will be running an intermittent series to discuss BPA and its activities, as, frankly, more people ought to know about them and tap into their resources, especially HVAC Contractors.
In today’s episode I interview Steve Skodak, the CEO of BPA.
Steve shares with us his history as a leader of non-profits, the history and activities of BPA, including helping to set policy, state and industry outreach, apprenticeship models, as well as the paid and free membership benefits for those interested in better understanding or doing work in the field of building performance.
Listen closely and you will hear of the tie in between Steve’s career and expanding foam.
Website: www.building-performance.org
Membership www.building-performance.org/membership
Email: sskodak@building-performance.org
This episode was recorded in July 2022.
Today we chat with Bill Graber and Steve Rogers of the Energy Conservatory, also known as TEC, a 40-year-old company that is on a mission to unite the tools and test instruments used in the HVAC and Weatherization markets…an important quest I am also dedicated to.
We’ll talk what innovation means at TEC.
The dictionary says innovation is the act or process of innovating.
OK,
So what is innovating?
“To make changes in something established, especially by introducing new methods, ideas, or products.”
“To introduce something new, especially a product.”
Aha, that is it! It’s the ACTION or ACTIVITY that is important.
We learn about the challenge of creating something that is “neat” (we engineers understand that you create something because you could, versus creating something that is “neat” AND useful.
This is a rare peek inside the doors of a manufacturer into their R&D labs and into the brains of an innovative company discovering the challenges and types of decisions that need to be made to satisfy their customers and advance the trades.
Website links:
www.energyconservatory.com
www.HVACairflow.com
Email:
srogers@energyconservatory.com
bgraber@energyconservatory.com
This episode was recorded in July 2022.
In March 2022, I was invited to be a guest on the Conscious Builder Show with Casey Grey.
I guess all the conversations I have been having about my modular NetZero house had reached north of the border to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, where Casey is based.
Casey’s podcast with me is available here: EP181:
https://theconsciousbuilder.libsyn.com/181-indoor-air-quality-and-net-zero-custom-build-with-bill-spohn_the-conscious-builder-show_05-05-2022
With a 10-minute video excerpt of the podcast interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jXyN3adkY0
We had such a great conversation, I wanted to pick his brain, hence this podcast!
We talk about some of the differences in the Canadian market, as well as how he runs his business (great advice here!!) and the Conscious Builder Academy.
Some Knuggets (knowledge nuggets) that emerge include:
Don’t believe everything you think – there can be better ways
Avoid tunnel vision
Website: https://www.theconsciousbuilder.com/casey-grey.html#/
Email: casey@theconsciousbuilder.com
This episode was recorded in May 2022.
I came to know of Ellis Prach back in the late 1990’s through his traveling classes when I was design engineering manager at Bacharach.
Later in 2000, when I was with Testo, I contacted him as we had just started to market a new visual inspection scope, based on plastic fiber optics.
You see, I have been obsessed for years with trying to solve the problem of more thorough inspections of heat exchangers and who better to talk to than the Heat Exchanger Expert!
His first reaction was, well, less than warm to the concept. However, our relationship blossomed into a true friendship as our families got to know each other.
In the last few years, Ellis has handed over the reins of his HVAC and Heat Exchanger Class businesses to his very capable sons, Chris and Russell.
Listen is as we discuss the important processes they use for their customers including the discussions around this important phrases:
NO GUESSING
We try to make the equipment last longer than us.
The #1 cause of heat exchanger failure.
The class reveals all in the book.
Website to learn more or buy their book: https://www.heatexchangerexperts.com/
Book is also available at TruTech Tools: https://www.trutechtools.com/HXBOOK
Contact form to find about classes: https://www.heatexchangerexperts.com/contact-us
Their class is like NOTHING else you have seen. If you attend, you will never forget it.
This episode was recorded in May 2022.
Learn about Andrew Greaves non-traditional career journey that took him from building maintenance to Director of Education and Customer Experience for NAVAC Global: www.NavacGlobal.com
He received his HVAC training via Community College Night school but has self-taught in video and audio production.
Andrew suggests if you are looking for a mentor, perhaps you first start with a collection of virtual mentors sourced from social media: Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn
In our discussion he emphasizes there is no excuse for not learning in this trade- there are so many ways. He also notes key traits he has identified that helped in his career: integrity, authenticity, and communication.
Andrew suggests you be bold, put yourself out there, you may need to discover what you can do though trying out various aspects, perhaps learning or honing a skill.
He admits never saw himself in this role 5 years ago.
He also notes you may learn from some what you should do and from others what you should NEVER do.
Andrew suggests you leverage your experiences no matter how basic, by trying to perform the best at everything you do, never strop learning.
And that you may need to ask for help, so have the humility to do so.
And we close with his statement to keep your options open.
YouTube Channel: Search for Andrew Greaves (formerly AK HVAC)
Email: AndrewKGreaves@gmail.com
This episode was recorded in May 2022.
“Don’t let fear hold you back.”
“If you want something in life, go ask for it.”
These are just two of the many takeaways you will get when you listen to this Episode.
Chris Hughes, now the HVAC Business Development Manager for the Energy Conservatory, is a long time HVAC/Mechanical contractor that is now tuned in to Building Performance – a technical area he was never aware of until the last couple of years.
He continues to bring you along on his Building Performance learning journey through webinars and in person trainings acting as a two-way translator between these two worlds for example in his “10 methods of Air Flow training.”
Chris details out his career path and some of the crucial decision points he encountered along the way: including the time he walked out of class and his exposure to the purity embodied in the “chamber of truth.”
Chris is a great story teller, I am pretty sure you will enjoy this.,,,
Learn more about Chris’ background via LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hughes-56550214b/
You can also email Chris at: chughes@energyconservatory.com
This episode was recorded in May 2022.
Listen in as we chat with Cheryl Cieko, a professional with a mission to dispel myths, create awareness, and empower both professionals and building owners, Cheryl is a one-stop source of knowledge, education, and support having been through mold exposure and illness with her own family.
Cheryl describes how, as a licensed architect and industry educator, she provides strategies for professionals, building owners and individuals to better deal with water damage, mold and toxins in buildings.
Her past responsibilities include 5 years as Midwest Regional Director and Senior Technical Director for the wood industry in North America.
She brings tenacious research abilities, analytical thinking and experience to the topic of environmental health, while sharing design and construction solutions that make a difference.
Lean more about Cheryl and her work at: https://cherylciecko.com/ or at https://www.avoidingmold.com/ - Science-Based And Expert-Guided BUILDING EDUCATION For Homeowners And Professionals
You can also email Cheryl at Cheryl@AvoidingMold.com
This episode was recorded in December 2020.
SCIENCE - In pursuit of understanding in the moment.
Join us as Rachel and Eric Kaiser, a wife and husband team from Indianapolis, share with us their perspectives on HVAC Chemistry.
If you’ve attended or watched Bryan Orr’s HVACR School Symposium over the last 3 years you may have seen them present.
We discuss the relative scales of time and size as well as the properties and impact of water on HVAC designs and decisions and so many other topics!
We learn more about the scientific/chemical aspects of dirt on surfaces, coatings and filtration
Some notable thoughts:
Chemistry is like baking, only you shouldn’t lick the spoon.
Cooking is like jazz music- in its improvisational aspect.
Watch Ty Branaman interview Rachel at the latest symposium: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPqN5yUNChw
And here are some links to many other podcasts that Eric has done on a wide range of topics from careers to tools to HVAC charging and more.
https://ivy.fm/tag/eric-kaiser
And we are proud to announce that Eric will be sharing his knowledge and skills and working with TruTech Tools on a regular basis beginning in June 2022.
This episode was recorded in April 2022.
We’re joined on today’s podcast by Scott Ringlein, a Clean Energy & Sustainability Specialist & Consultant.
Scott was raised as a farmer and educated as an engineer with a first career path in the auto industry.
He ventured out on his own creating a second career in sustainability with a focus on energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy measures.
Listen in as Scott shares his journey and achievements which include work for the U.S. Department of Energy and the founding of The Energy Alliance Group of North America in 2012.
Scott helps us to understand PACE: Property Assessed Clean Energy. There are a lot of great resources on his website where EAG has a “four cores” approach to green and renewable solutions: Technology, Financing, Incentives and Services.
Learn more about the EAG here: energyalliancegroup.org
And contact Scott via: sringlein@energyalliancegroup.org
Follow Scott on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sringlein/
This episode was recorded in March 2020.
If you’re in the HVAC field and you listen to podcasts, it’s likely you’ve heard of Gary MacCreadie. If not, here’s your chance to get an inside perspective on how and why Gary got into the HVAC Field and later started a podcast audaciously named HVAC Know-It-All.
Throughout the episode, we flip flop as interviewer and guest.
Gary has recently started his own business, as he, like many others including me, do not like taking direction from others.
Follow all content of the HVAC Know It All here: https://www.hvacknowitall.com/
Gary is one of the growing list of TruFriends, talented people in the trade that we list on this page on our website: https://www.trutechtools.com/friends-of-trutech-tools.html
Follow Gary and Bill on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/
This episode was recorded in May 2022.
On today’s podcast we are joined by Bryan Cordill, the Director of Residential and Commercial Business Development at the Propane Education and Research Council.
Bryan has decades of experience in the world of propane and in the energy industry in general.
We cover topics ranging from propane as a source of space & water heating, cooking, mobile energy including school buses, to combined heat and power systems. We also touch on propane as a refrigerant (R-290).
You might be surprised at the size of some of the systems we discuss.
You can learn more about the mission and work of the Propane Education Research Council by going to: www.propane.com/
Follow Bryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-cordill-438557a/
This episode was recorded in June 2020.
Matt Golden is Founder and CEO of Recurve a company that connects the dots between efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and DERS (distributed energy resources).
Recurve’s mission is to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy by integrating behind the meter demand flexibility resources into the emerging carbon-free energy grid.
Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) can be described as small-scale electricity generation and storage devices that are generally connect to the grid. These sources can be Solar, Wind, and battery storage, and others.
Matt’s focus is on energy and the climate while looking for the customer benefit.
He’s got an impressive career path, including the founding of Sustainable Spaces (AKA Recurve at the time) in 2004, which over 7 years grew to be the largest home performance contractor on the West coast.
You can find Matt and follow his work on his website: www.recurve.com
And on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/goldenmatt/
Matt’s most recent TEDx talk was in Sonoma in March 2022 discussing VPPs Virtual Power Plants: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knDsACZaaQc
This episode was recorded in October 2019, but check the links above for more up to date info as things change quickly in this field.
Max Rohr (formerly with Rehau as the Marketing and Academy Manager for Building Solutions) spends some time explaining for us the process of creating and marketing products to move energy in water, that is radiant heating and cooling systems, as well as plumbing applications with Pex.
We learn about both Max’s background and the background of the Rehau company which has 20,000 employees in 55 countries and operates in 5 distinct market areas globally.
This episode was recorded in February 2020.
I was impressed with Austin Klokus when I first met him on a trip to Kalos Services (The Orr Family HVAC/Mechanical business in Clermont FL) a few years ago.
He was working as a senior videographer at the time where he had soaked up knowledge from Bryan Orr and others and taught himself the skills necessary to do fulfill this role.
I loved it when he used the phrase “air is stuff” in one of his videos to convey the message that air has mass.
I saw him again in person recently at the 3rd Annual HVAC School Symposium and he continues to mature and grow as a person.
I appreciate his “young wisdom” and I hope that you do, too.
This episode was recorded in November 2019.
I can easily summarize this episode with a single quote from Craig’s LinkedIn bio:
“Remember that we are all teachers and need to invest in others to succeed.”
You may have heard of Craig; as his HVAC Training books and YouTube videos continue to grow in popularity. Find him on the AC Service Tech Channel on YouTube.
He’s always been a problem solver including solving the problem of teaching himself how to write some of the most thoughtfully developed HVAC training materials out there.
https://www.youtube.com/c/acservicetechchannel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-migliaccio-71085a74/
info@acservicetech.com
You can find his books on Amazon or via his website:
https://www.amazon.com/shop/acservicetech/list/2JFZVBR572471
https://www.acservicetech.com/
This episode was recorded in April 2022.
I’m so pleased to welcome my friend Steve Coscia to the podcast!
You may have heard of him; he focuses on training customer service skills especially in the world of HVAC.
As a master communications trainer, he gets his points across via memorable story telling.
He holds awesome in-person training sessions (he has been to TruTech Tools twice!) and has books, newsletters, materials, and videos, all of which can be found though this website and YouTube channel: Links below
https://www.coscia.com/
https://www.youtube.com/user/stevecoscia/videos
His 3 key principles of customer problem handling are contain, qualify and correct.
A lot of what he teaches may be considered life skills. You need to get a dose of Steve if you can.
You will also find Steve presenting at conferences and in the media/videos via other organizations like ACCA and The New Flat Rate.
This episode was recorded in September 2021.
In today’s podcast we hear from John Sheff who was the director of Public and Industry Affairs for Danfoss at the time of this recording.
We learn how John’s passion about energy efficiency, decarbonization and sustainability combines with his professional experience in Public Affairs, Government Relations, Project Management and Business Development to help develop strong solutions that meet our industry's needs.
We hear about the barriers to deep energy retrofits, limitations of the push for electrification as well as how people are thinking beyond the individual building to tackle building emissions.
We also talk about the need for variable speed technology HVAC systems that can ramp up or down to accommodate commercial space that is operating at varying degrees of capacity. And we touch on need to maintain constant, variable airflow as opposed to on/off air flow in indoors spaces with respect to what we have learned in response to COVID-19.
You can learn more about Danfoss products at this link: https://www.danfoss.com/en-us/
And read more on Danfoss’ position on ESG at this link:
https://www.danfoss.com/en-us/about-danfoss/company/sustainability/esg-ranks-and-ratings/
This episode was recorded in August 2021.
Tom Jackson has a passion for the HVAC Trades and it shows through in what he does as leader of Jackson Systems and Supply.
Tom is a true entrepreneur following where his customers lead him.
His company focuses on product development and support and solves some real head scratcher problems with products and services that you won’t find elsewhere.
Services like Filter Fetch – making it easy on contractors for their customers to do the right thing.
You’ll hear about his vision and perspectives and the awesome online training system they have developed.
You can learn more about his company here: https://jacksonsystems.com/
We are proud to carry his iO Controls line of products at TruTech Tools:
https://www.trutechtools.com/iO-HVAC-Controls
This episode was recorded in Sept 2019.
Tom Jackson
Tom Jackson is the chief executive officer of Jackson Systems, LLC. A Purdue University graduate, Tom is a degreed engineer and spent several years as a territory manager with a large heating and cooling wholesaler in Indiana. During that time, Tom learned a great deal about controls, equipment and incredible client service. In 1997, Tom partnered with his parents to start Jackson Systems. While he is involved with most aspects of the business, he focuses on long-term strategies, product development and making Jackson Systems an incredible place to work. Tom, Ron and Bette have grown Jackson Systems from a start-up to a $20M + company with 81 employees. Jackson Systems has won “Best Places to Work” seven times for the State of Indiana.
Tom was a founding Board Member of the Zoning Marketing Alliance (ZMA), which merged with the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), the premiere governing body of the HVAC industry. Additionally, Tom is on the Board of Directors for the Indiana HVAC Association and serves on two national committees for the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). Tom also received the National Distinguished Service Award from ACCA.
Tom lives in Indianapolis with his wife Jane and their two children. He is active in the Boy Scouts of America. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout and has the distinct honor of being awarded the Silver Beaver, Scouting’s top honor. But his great Scouting accomplishment was seeing his son earn is Eagle Scout award. Tom is also involved with Kiwanis, the Catholic Church, the Wishing Well Fund and Alpha Phi Omega service organization. Tom is committed to improving the lives of others and dedicated to his employees and community.
The title for this episode could mean a couple things:
- “Getting an early start” as in developing an early morning routine
- “Getting an early start” as in beginning to learn the trades in high school
Well, Elana Day takes the second meaning to an extreme.
Join us as Elana and her dad, Jordan, describe how she has become a LinkedIn phenom with a video of hers gathering thousands of views in a very short time.
Elana started at age 5 and now, at age 9 has quite a repertoire of projects completed.
You’ll enjoy hearing from Jordan, a licensed Master Plumber and Certified HVAC technician who employs the elements of Greek Pedagogy in raising his family.
Elana follows excellent safety practices and works hard to learn improve her skills. Yet, she is a “regular kid” who is just drawn to do this.
Jordan is an Autodidact – a term you may have heard Bryan Orr use before.
Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autodidacticism
You can find Elana doing her thing on YouTube at this link
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1PLmZrxcVu09_rWjy1YkmA
Or by searching for Lil'MissFixIt on YouTube
You’ll also find her dad, Jordan Day on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-day-93590220b/
…where he recently posted about Elana:
“This International Women's Day, I would like to give a shoutout to my amazing daughter. She is 9 years old and wants to become an engineer, but she also has strong interests in the skilled trades. When it comes to her future career, her hobbies, her interests and yes, even her worldview, I do my best to let her carve her own path. I feel that she has already taught me more than I could ever teach her.”
This episode was recorded in March 2022.
This is my first interview with a founder of a publicly traded company and my second interview with a European guest!
Meet Erlend Bolle, whose life journey took him from working at CERN to a building a global, publicly traded company that innovates consumer and professional grade radon and indoor Air quality Monitors.
His team’s initial goal was to create a product relevant for all in volume production that improves people’s health.
Learn how the team at Airthings works to understand consumer needs as society, homes and the world changes over time.
CERN details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CERN
27 kM (16.77 mile) diameter particle accelerator
You can find Erlend on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erlendbolle/
And learn more about this company, AirThings here: https://www.airthings.com/
And see his products for sale at TruTech Tools, here: https://www.trutechtools.com/Airthings
This episode was recorded in January 2022.
Brett approaches sustainability with thoughtfulness and enthusiasm.
He is the Program Manager at GreenHome Institute, has been involved in residential sustainability since 2008, and holds a bachelor's in Sustainable Business.
Brett has provided consulting and verification services on thousands of residential green-certified living spaces and certified four projects as a LEED Green Rater. Brett oversees education services providing training or moderations for hundreds of events with thousands of attendees.
Brett lives with his family in West Michigan in a GreenStar certified home targeting zero carbon in 2021. His mission is to help you build, BETTER.
Additionally, he takes personal steps along these lines and share his experiences.
Learn about his radon monitoring experiences here: https://www.airthings.com/resources/brett-radon-story
He shares is Carbon Zero Home renovation journey here: https://www.buildwithrise.com/stories/financing-a-carbon-zero-home-renovation
You can find Brett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-little-0b3ab71b/
Brett’s day job is Program Manager at the Green Home Institute: https://greenhomeinstitute.org/
This episode was recorded in January 2022.
Russ King is a rare breed.
He is equally inventor, author (both technical and fiction), software developer, design practitioner, instructor and installer.
Above all that, he is passionate, thoughtful, kind, smart and loves to share what he knows.
If you get a chance, go see Russ present some time.
You can find Russ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-king-m-e-70342913/
He’s got a really cool blog with an awesome tagline:
“Offering good advice, whether you want it or not.”
https://russellking.me/
Russ and his son Connor have developed an awesome modeling tool: www.KwikModel.com
This episode was recorded in August 2021.
Joe is one of the coolest guys I know.
He probably doesn’t think of himself that way.
He’s been so influential in changing the perception and understanding of IAQ and healthy homes in the last few years.
And he is SO PASSIONATE about getting people to understand.
He is always testing products and building props and animations to teach others.
If you get a chance, go see Joe present some time.
You can find Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemedosch
You can learn more about the Hayward Score at: www.HaywardScore.com
This episode was recorded in Dec 2021.
Jason Earle of GotMold.com gives a fascinating tour of his personal journey and how he ended up breaking the price barrier for lab testing of mold in the air.
Jason has set up a special landing page for our listeners:
https://www.gotmold.com/trutech
AND… a 10% discount code just for you! Trutech10
This episode was recorded in January 2022.
Paul’s a unique, but complex man: equal parts scientist, inventor, business owner, practitioner, and author.
Paul’s technical website is https://www.heyokasolutions.com/aboutus.asp and his publishing website is https://www.paulhraymer.com/, Salty Air Publishing
The Residential Ventilation Handbook is a must read for those in building science.
This episode was recorded in Sept 2021.
I’m so happy to bring the voice, thoughts, and ideas of Michael Kane to the Building HVAC Podcast!
You’ll hear about the art and process of product development that has evolved through 2 generations of ownership of this family business.
Michael is a man of patience and empathy and greatly respects the dignity, value and skill of the trades, He hopes to create the best products for people in the trades to better do their jobs.
You can learn more about UEI products at Michael’s website: www.UEitest.com or at www.TruTechtools.com/UEi
This episode was recorded in Sept 2021.
Since January is Radon awareness month, I’ve invited 2 people deeply involved in the Radon industry to be my guests today.
Dawn Oggier, is Manager of Market Development for RadonAway and
National Director for AARST – the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (https://aarst.org/)
Brian Kennihan is the Business Development Manager for AprilAire.
If you are catching this episode before or during your visit to the 2022 AHR Expo you can visit with both guests!
Dawn at booth N8617: Spruce Environmental Technologies
And
Brian at booth C3706: AprilAire a Division of Research Products
LinkedIn connections:
Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-oggier-3276481a3/
Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-kennihan-ba3677b3/
You can learn more about their organizations:
Spruce Environmental Technologies/ RadonAway: https://www.radonaway.com/
AprilAire Radon products at: www.aprilairepartners.com/
This episode was recorded in Jan 2022.
Brian is on a mission with this company, Module Housing.
Their tag line says it all:
Designed for people and planet powered by offsite construction.
Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briangaudio/
Or via his website: https://www.modulehousing.com/
This episode was recorded in July 2019.
“Research is to see what everybody else has seen,
and to think what nobody else has thought.”
Albert Szent-Gyorgyi
I’m certain many of our listeners have had ideas for products of their own.
Trade practitioners are clever and innovative on the job and so, able to see new ways to “connect the dots” and solve a problem.
How do you go from idea to successful product on the market?
How long does it take to develop award winning products?
Today we are joined by Bob Belvick, Product Manager for the HVACR Service Tools division of Inficon, a publicly traded, diversified industrial giant with HQ in Switzerland.
Bob shares his background story and talks about INFICON's other industries and what makes them different from competitors.
Bob focuses in on refrigerant leak detectors, one of the specialties of Inficon dating back to the 1969 founding of the company by scientists and engineers from GE and Syracuse University.
He takes us on a walkthrough of the product development process: eg. capturing customer needs, integrating technologies, analyzing the market, alpha and beta testing, working with his development team, to give us an overview of the complexities and time it takes to do it right – that is an Inficon characteristic!
Among many other tidbits, Bob also shares with us how they arrived at the name INFICON.
For more info on Inficon HVAC products go to: www.inficon.com/en/markets/air-conditioning
You’ll also find Inifcon HVAC products at www.TruTechtools.com/Inficon
This episode was recorded in July 2020.
“Repetition makes reputation and reputation makes customers.”
Elizabeth Arden
Fortune may come knocking, but sometimes the sound is very faint, almost imperceptible.
When someone takes you under their wing, how do you know if that’s where you want to be?
If the bug to start your own business bites, what do you do next? Where can you learn from others’ experience and insights?
We’re pleased to welcome the very successful HVAC contractor Hal Smith to the podcast.
Hal shares with us the story of how he started and grew Halco Energy. We learn the ups and downs of growing an HVAC, Plumbing, (and more) contracting business in a mostly rural area of NY State with just 1-2 competitors.
Hal uses straightforward thinking and simple insights to create a business where the goal is to earn customers for life.
We also hear where Hal gains new perspectives and insights including the way he “snacks on learning.”
Hal is a hands-on business operator who knows and communicates with his customers.
Hal Smith is founder and owner of HALCO Energy in Phelps, NY servicing Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse, The Finger Lakes and surrounding areas of upstate NY.
For more info go to: www.HalcoEnergy.com
This episode was recorded in December 2019.
“I can’t change the direction of the wind,
but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”
Jimmy Dean
Many of the people I meet in the industry have interesting stories.
There are struggles and challenges in all their lives, our lives.
What if a real police state was limiting your options in life?
How would you direct your will? Your desire? Your drive to achieve?
I met our guest today, Genry Garcia during the AHR Expo in Orlando in January 2020.
As I learned more about him, I found his story truly inspirational.
Genry is thoughtful, honest, and avid self-learner. He’s also a successful business owner and devoted family man.
While it now makes total sense, based on his approach to customers, I did not learn until lately that Genry has done degree work in psychology.
Genry owns Comfort Dynamics, Inc. in Miami, FL.
This episode was recorded in June 2021.
“Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
Arthur C. Clarke
The topic of how to manage and improve indoor air quality comes up a lot lately.
With all this interest come the offer of many “solutions” and devices.
Wish you could learn the back story of and technology inside some of these devices?
Ever wonder about the international perspectives on the topic of IAQ?
The Building HVAC Science podcast is pleased to welcome our very first guest from another continent!
Listen in as Clive Mitchell, better know as Big Clive, gives us his perspectives on a spectrum of IAQ improvement products from beneficial to downright dangerous.
If you have not seen his YouTube Channel, you need to stop and look up BigCliveDotCom on YouTube. He’s published thousands of dissection-like, teardown videos on a wide range of electrical and electronic products over the last 13 years.
Clive largely focuses on “cheap junk” teardowns and publishes a video every 2 days. Yet he also finds time to ponder such challenging societal questions like:
“Does pineapple belong on pizza?”
“What happens when you re-distill Jägermeister?”
He calls it the trashiest electronics channel on YouTube. Based on feedback, the bulk of his over 800,0000 subscribers seem to agree.
Big Clive lives on the Isle of Mann, a 221 sq. mile island with population of 83,000 located in the Irish Sea.
This episode was recorded in May 2021.
“Astronomy’s much more fun when you’re not an astronomer.”
Brian May
COVID-19 has impacted the way people interact for many months.
Especially the way people interact with each other in spaces outside their homes.
What do the air quality scientists have to say about the management of indoor air?
What kind of measurements are significant and important?
Will this pandemic impact the way we do things in HVAC after it subsides?
Steve Pascuzzo, manager of testo’s commercial division, joins us to discuss indoor air quality metrics, with a keen focus on managing the return to schools after COVID-19.
Steve also shares with us his background, career path and his keen intertest in astrophotography and shares with us the 7 unusual features of Oumuamua - the first known interstellar object detected passing through our Solar System.
Here is the link to the ASHRAE guideline for reopening schools and universities as mentioned in the podcast:
https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/reopening-of-schools-and-universities
To learn more about testo products visit: www.TruTechTools.com/testo
This episode was recorded in January 2021.
“When you are enthusiastic about what you do, you feel this positive energy.
It’s very simple.”
Paulo Coelho
The construction is finished. Bill and Mairlyn moved in months ago.
What’s it been like for Bill living inside his theories?
Were any late course corrections necessary? Any regrets?
In this podcast, recorded in April 2021, our friend Allison Bailes (The Energy Vanguard) becomes host and interviews/investigates if the SpohnHome as truly a high-performance home.
Bill and Allison exchange thoughts on a variety of topics:
A house needs to breathe
Air as a bodily fluid
Mean (and nice?) radiant temperatures and naked people
Various proven (and some sketchy) means for improving indoor air quality
Our favorite & reliable sources for information
What’s a Comparetto Cube?
And more!
Bill shares updates on what it’s like living inside his theories.
To learn more about the project you can follow Bill’s blog at www.SpohnHome.com
This episode was recorded in April 2021.
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful,
or believe to be beautiful.”
William Morris
His head has been wrapped up in building and HVAC performance since the late 1980s.
How does he sort through bringing his personal vision for his own home to reality?
What’s it like actually living inside your theories?
In this podcast, recorded in May 2020, our friend Nate Adams (from HVAC 2.0) becomes host and interviews Bill Spohn (normally this podcast’s host) on the journey he and Marilyn have taken setting out to build a high performance, likely NetZero, home.
Listen in to hear what influences he used in making design and construction decisions. Hear of the goals he and his wife set at the beginning and how close they came to achieving them.
Bill openly describes his thoughts on the challenges they encountered and how well the plans are working out at the time of this recording, when the house is in the final stages of finishing, but they have not yet moved in.
To learn more about the project you can follow Bill’s blog at www.SpohnHome.com
This episode was recorded in May 2020.
“Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.”
Jonathan Swift
Listeners to this podcast know, it is often very hard to explain what it is we do.
When I try to explain this, people’s’ eyes and ears glaze over as I get into the technical descriptions of the invisible elements that make a home more comfortable, safer, healthier and energy efficient.
(Wait, can an ear actually glaze over? I think ‘ve done it.)
What if there were an independent, third party means to capture and make visible the values we build into high performance homes and retrofits?
In this episode, co-founders Cynthia Adams and Robin Lebaron join us to explain how Pearl Certification is truly transforming the housing market.
They’re on a mission to make visible the invisible aspects that contractors know about. The elements that make all the difference in the comfort, health, safety, resilience, and energy efficiency of a home.
They are achieving this by qualifying an elite network of contractors and real estate professionals. These professionals work to improve home performance and ensure Pearl Certified homes are properly marketed and valued.
This isn’t a one and done effort. As your customers improve their homes, they continue to get credit for these improvements over time. The value of their high-performing home becomes visible at the time of appraisal for refinance or sale.
This is a nationwide for homeowners and the businesses that serve them with 45,695 homes Pearl Certified, so far.
I encourage you to learn more about become Pearl Certification contractor:
http://pearlcertification.com/contractors/
And here is information for Homeowners:
http://pearlcertification.com/homeowners/
We have had guests from Pearl join us on this podcast before:
Episode 14: CarFax for Homes with Bethany Profaizer and Amy Beley (1-17-18)
Episode 18: HabitatX Reflections with Robin LeBaron (7-5-18)
This episode was recorded in April 2021.
“Data, data everywhere, and not a place to sync!”
Eric Preston
Sensor data and oftentimes, the corresponding analytics are popping up everywhere you look.
What is happening in the HVAC world?
In newer systems there are some options; most on the high end.
But are there any reliable solutions that address more basic systems and the aftermarket?
Here comes SensiPredict by Emerson.
Emerson has designed a full eco system that helps to deliver new benefits for contractors; benefits that homeowner value and are driving contractors wins. Providing peace of mind for both!
These smart diagnostic tools have matured and now ensure verified installations and as well as remote fault detection.
Joe Samel (Emerson) and successful Florida contractor Sam Troyer (Comfort Zone, Inc) describe for us real world experience with this impressive new technology that helps to differentiate Sam’s pitch and his services.
Contractors, like Sam, are using technology to successful separate their companies against their competition.
Learn more about the product here:
https://climate.emerson.com/en-us/brands/sensi/sensi-predict-for-contractors
SensiPredict is available at leading distributors across the US and at https://www.trutechtools.com/sensi
This episode was recorded in March 2021.
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.”
Michael Jordan
Years ago if someone said to me:
“I’m building a Net Zero home.”
I would have thought,
“What are they giving up doing so?”
Fast Forward to 2021:
In addition to me living in a prospective Net Zero Home (check out other episodes of this podcast), there are now several national Net Zero competitions with utilities, raters, builders and homeowners working together to raise public awareness of this accelerating trend showcasing the benefits of building beyond code requirements.
Join us to hear Adam Nyborg (Tilia Restoration- the builder) and Joe Rando, a senior engineering assistant and HERS rater with GDS Associates, describe the Drive to Net Zero Competition in New Hampshire.
We learn about the guests’ background as well as get up to speed on details of the 2019 winning design, the process, and the competition.
Mike Loughlin from Eversource (the utility sponsor for the 2019 winner) offers his contact info for anyone considering developing such a program in their area: Michael.Loughlin@Eversource.com
For more info:
https://nhsaves.com/blog/winning-drive-to-net-zero-competition-homes-combine-comfort-and-savings-2/
This episode was recorded in January 2021
“Tell me and I forget.
Teach me and I remember.
Involve me and I learn
Ben Franklin
Bill is joined by Peter Troast of the Energy Circle and Steve Byers of Energy Logic to share their many reasons for attending the National Home Performance Conference year after year.
Sign up for the 2021 National Home Performance Conference (all virtual) now at:
https://events.building-performance.org/national/
Learn more about our guests and their businesses at these links:
Energy Logic: https://theenergylogic.com/
Energy Circle: https://www.energycircle.com/
TruTechTools: www.TruTechTools.com
“I’ve been struck again and again
by how important measurement is to improving the human condition.”
Bill Gates
Lend us your ears as Kaleb and Bill have a very fun interview with Ben Reed, VP of Products at TZOA, a relative new comer to the world of measurement products.
TZOA’s approach with the Haven product is totally unique: a retrofittable residential air quality monitor that lives inside the central air handler and can control 1 or 2 systems that can impact air quality.
Not just measurements/sensors, but control/solutions.
This product is exclusively available to qualified contractors and is NOT a DIY device.
In addition to a great streamlined product, the dashboard is AMAZING, largely due to the tight ties between the contractor-beta testers and clever product developers.
Learn more at these links:
Tzoa: https://tzoa.com/
HVACRSchool: www.HVACRSchool.com
The Haven product: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven-central-air-monitor.html
This episode was recorded in December 2020.
“He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything.”
Thomas Carlyle
Bill was honored to welcome Dr. Stephanie Taylor to the podcast where she shares the fascinating story of her career path from medicine to architecture to crusading for better building health by bridging these professional silos.
He had a great time interviewing Stephanie, plumbing the depths of her knowledge and experience. We discuss many aspects of IAQ and focus in on the impact of humidity on human health.
A key takeaway is our discussion of the invisible impact of a building on one’s health.
You can learn more about her work at www.40to60RH.com or follow her on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-h-taylor-md-march-frsph-uk-cabe-ashrae-d-l-b6456b8
This episode was recorded in November 2020.
“The family is one of nature’s masterpieces.”
George Santayana
Bill is joined Marty and David Indursky, a father and son team that have built Encon, an award winning, NJ-based HVAC/building solutions company.
Hear how David has reinvigorated the company by implementing modern technology techniques after he took it over from his father who founded ENCON in 1968.
They share best practices and what sets ENCON apart.
We also hear about and what David envisions for the future of the industry.
You can follow Encon via their website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook or YouTube.
https://enconmech.com
https://www.instagram.com/enconmech/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/encon-mech
https://www.facebook.com/enconmech
https://www.youtube.com/enconmech
This episode was recorded in August 2020.
“I grew up thinking that a research scientist was a natural thing to be.”
Stephen Hawking
There’s physical science. And there’s a kind of science as to how the mind works and how people achieve their dreams.
Blend one-part plasma fusion physics with one-part commercial real estate and stir this in an open and creative mind and you have Peter Capuciati, the Chairman and Founder of Bluon and the guest of today’s podcast.
Starting in 2011, Peter has led the team at Bluon to develop a true solution for R-22 replacement. It’s called TdX-20 (R-458a), something unlike anything the HVACR world has ever seen.
It truly is an energy saving product, as they are demonstrating amp draw decreases of 10-20% and increases in capacity of 3-6%.
We love digging into the science of HVAC in this podcast, and Peter is the perfect tour guide for the challenging journey of creating a refrigerant chemistry that has been proven to perform in about 80% of R-22 systems. This is backed up by real-world testing on equipment, not just simulations
After an easy, free registration and testing process, techs can gain full access to the operating manuals of over 22,000 types of R-22 units as well as individual retrofit instructions and compatibility ratings for each unit.
Beyond all this, Bluon provides the training, know-how and demonstrates (sometimes in person) the skills necessary to successful do a successful conversion.
If this sounds like a commercial for Bluon, it sort of is, as we sell Bluon at TruTech Tools.
However, this is exactly the kind of product we love selling; smart, well supported and one that relieves a major pain point for our customers. Plus, it’s fun working with the energetic Ninja team at Bluon, or as Peter calls them the Analog Renaissance Cowboys.
You can learn more about Bloun at www.BluonEnergy.com and join the thousand technicians every month that are downloading and using the app.
“The only think I have learnt over the years is that if you enjoy your work and put in best efforts it will show. If you follow this process, things work out. But if you go chasing a formula, success will elude you.”
Mahesh Babu
While building his own house, John Semmelhack’s innate curiosity grew as he researched the best was to design and build a home.
This lead him to start his own business, Think Little.
The name of his business is deceptive as John is truly a big thinker, who acts in quiet ways to create comfortable, energy efficient and durable homes that have excellent indoor air quality.
Lend us your ears to learn how following simple, yet important processes lead to amazing results.
We discuss HVAC Air filtration and why and how to get super-inexpensive, extremely effective filtration
He employs test and measurement at every appropriate juncture as well as post work, continuous monitoring for IAQ, energy and comfort. These factors are easier to measure than ever before!
John also reviews aspects of running this type of business including the variety of services he has developed over the years.
John Semmelhack is the owner of Think Little (www.think-little.com) and co-owner of Comparetto Comfort Solutions, a pair of home performance consulting and contracting firms based in Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia. Think Little specializes in building enclosure and mechanical system design and commissioning for single-family and multi-family Passive House and zero-net-energy homes in the mid-Atlantic. Comparetto Comfort Solutions focuses on high performance HVAC installations for new homes in the Charlottesville and Richmond markets, as well as home performance contracting to help meet clients’ comfort, indoor air quality, durability and energy efficiency goals.
“True genius lies not in doing the extraordinary things, but in doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
General Louis H. Wilson, Jr.
Building science principles are few and fairly straightforward; ordinary, perhaps.
HAM: A lot of it amounts to control the flow of Heat, Air and Moisture.
But, like so many things in this world, the devil is in the details.
Listen in as I chat with my good friend Nate Adams (a true genius) to get an update on his extraordinarily execution of ordinary measures in his new concept of Home Performance 2.0.
This is a follow up to Episode 36, where I interview two of the HP 2.0 practitioners, Neil Comparetto and Michael Housh.
Measurements (so near and dear to my heart) are at the core of what he and his HP 2.0 army are all about.
For a more complete overview, tune in to a recording of his recent webinar on HP 2.0: www.bit.ly/NATE-HP20
Nate’s book, The Home Comfort Book, is perfect for consumers or practitioners alike and can be found at TruTech Tools or on Amazon.
You can reach Nate at Nate@EnergySmartOhio.com.
May the forces of evil become confused on the way to your house.
George Carlin
Yep, Radon is force of evil.
Pure evil.
Colorless.
Odorless.
Deadly.
But sneaky. It’s deadly over decades.
My good friend Dick Kornbluth joins me to unravel the intricacies of all aspects of Radon – a colorless, odorless, poisonous radioactive gas.
Dick explains how and where radon is formed, how it gets into the air we breathe and the health impact it has on us.
He reveals where the famous 4 picocuries per liter exposure amount comes from, underscoring that there is NO SAFE LEVEL.
The US EPA has a treasure trove of information on Radon at www.epa.gov/radon
Dick shares with us his extensive and practical experience in how radon gas moves through a structure, how it is measured and how Radon mitigation systems work along with a note about radon resistant construction.
Dick is very engaged in the home performance world, and believes an improved understanding of Radon is key part of the home performance goals of healthy, more durable and energy efficient homes and buildings.
You can reach Dick at Dick@DickKornbluth.com
TruTechTools carries a broad array of radon detectors.
Learn more at this link: https://www.trutechtools.com/radon
I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.
Jimmy Dean
While we picked a specific topic, this is a wide-ranging episode with my friend in the industry, Eric Stromquist of Stromquist.com – 2nd generation controls distributor based out of Atlanta, GA.
We discuss our thoughts and opinions on:
How hard it is to actually get access to people – cold calling is basically dead
Closed vs. open architecture in building automation systems
C suite execs focus on productivity, which ties in to all building systems
How the internet has changed the way information is shared- knowledge hoarding is done
The psychological effects of improper lighting
And much, much more.
Eric teams up with Ken Smyers to manage a ton of educational and informative resources centered around building controls and automation that you will find at www.ControlTrends.org They even have their own Awards ceremony that takes place before the AHR Expo!
Eric is an avid podcaster and actually had me on his show in Episode 311!
YouTube link: http://bit.ly/YT-ControlTrendsBS
Podcast link http://bit.ly/ControlTrendBS starting 31:39
To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.
Buddha
HVAC and building performance contractors are seeing more homes built or retrofit to tighter levels. Blower door test outs like 3, 2, 1 ACH50 or less.
What do you do when the “house can’t breathe?”
Hopefully, you see the humor in that statement.
Of course - you build it tight and ventilate it right!
(Credit for that phrase likely goes to Earle Perera and Lynn Parkins as the title for their article in the June 1992 Building Services Journal a UK publication)
Listen in as Ty Newell founder of BuildEquinox shares with us how he got to the point of feeling the need to create his own ventilation product, the CERV2: Conditioning Energy Recovery Ventilator.
This unique product senses when to run, ventilates or recirculates the “fresh air stores” in the space using a small variable output heat pump. It incorporates slick controls and internet connectivity.
Plus, I cannot wait to be using it the new high-performance home we are building for occupancy by the summer of 2020.
Learn more about the product and more importantly the philosophies behind the product by surfing over to www.BuildEquinox.com
The BuildEquinox site has numerous white papers, tech specs & installation info, recording and upcoming webinars and more. You can also learn about the net zero house (which includes the CERV 1) that Ty built.
In this age of high technology and Jedi Knights, we often overlook the need of personal involvement, but we do so at our own risk.
William H. McRaven (American Solider)
Attention all HVAC Techs:
Soon someone will be looking over your shoulder.
Not it’s not the Homeowner, with severe coffee breath and a million little questions, it’s going to be a Home Energy Rater giving a grade to your HVAC installation.
What???!!!
Yes, like it or not, this will happen.
And it is justified.
It’s because the work done by HVAC Technicians is so important; important to the occupant’s comfort, safety and health as well as their utilities bills AND the utility companies in general as they try to balance the supply and demand of energy.
Residential HVAC energy demand is a big topic in the utility world. (We’ll do a podcast on this later.)
Listen in as Jeremy Begley of HVAC Design Partners of Cincinnati, OH shares with us how paying attention to standards as helped to shape his entrepreneurial career. Specifically, the upcoming ACCA/RESNET standard on Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems.
One timely note here: the comment period on the first draft of a new RESNET standard (BSR/RESNET/ACCA 310-201x, Standard for Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems) closes on Aug 6, 2019. If you want to review and/or comment go to this link ASAP www.bit.ly/RESNET-ACCA-310
Jeremy’s got a lot to share with the both the HVAC and Building Performance industries. He came on the podcast to encourage others to review and engage in this and other important HVAC Standards.
The methodology in the standard has five steps – a design review, a total duct leakage test, a Blower Fan CFM test, a Blower Fan watt draw test, and a non-invasive evaluation of refrigerant charge (NIST found in MeasureQuick). These five tasks should be completed in sequence and upon completion the results are evaluated for compliance with thresholds. The result of this process is anywhere from a failing system to a grade 1, 2, or 3; with 1 being the top grade and all grades yielding extra points in the HERS rating.
Besides being important to HERS ratings, it is basic physics and the methods described have positive impact outside of the rating world.
Learn more about the standard itself by going to http://bit.ly/RESNET-310-INFO, where you will find a link to RESNET conference slides on this topic and a link to the other podcast I host, RESTALK, where I interviewed Wes Davis (ACCA) and Den Gamble (EPA) on this standard.
If you want to learn more about the services and training (coming) that Jeremy offers you can reach out via the contact form on his website: www.HVACDesignPartners.com
Looking to be a better HVACR Tech?
One key aspect is keeping up to date with changing equipment, products and techniques.
And that is no mean feat.
In order to do so, you need to help yourself to training and education where ever you can get it.
Like this podcast… especially because it is on a lesser known topic: HVACR Chemicals and sealants.
Mike Walton of CoolAir Products in Maryland, joins us on this episode to focus on 2 of the products he has brought to the US market: AC SmartSeal External- a line and coil repair product and AC SmartSeal Quick Shot, the 3 in 1 internal seal, lube and leak check dye. Interestingly, these two products work best together.
Mike discusses how and why he formed the company starting in his garage in 2014.
He describes his company’s focus on the technician, by making products that are safe, effective, and easy to use.
Part of this ease of use comes because all products are 100 % safe to the touch, non-toxic and non-flammable. That means no warning labels and for our friends in California, no prop 65 issues. Plus, he backs up the product with 3rd party lab testing by Intertek
Mike’s got a lot to share with the industry.
You can buy Mike’s products at wholesalers across the US or online at www.trutechtools.com/Cool-Air-Products
If you want to learn more you can reach out to Mike at www.CoolAirProducts.net or MikeWalton@CoolAirProducts.net
Today we turn the tables and your host becomes the guest!
As you may or may not know Marilyn and I are building a new high-performance home this year (2019).
Even though I have been involved in home performance for 30 years, it was in the narrow field of test and measurement, not in construction detail and aspects.
And because it is our home and our money, everything about it is personal and I have a real hunger for the details which tends to complicate decisions!
So, I asked my thoughtful pal, Nate Adams to pitch some questions at me to get me to talk about the subject and share our journey up to this point.
We were calling it a high-performance house, but recently I’ve changed that to a new concept (in my mind): personalized performance – it’s what we want our home to be.
I hope you enjoy the listen.
If you want to learn more you can reach out to Bill at Bill@trutechtools.com or Nate at Nate@energysmartohio.com via his website: www.NateTheHouseWhisperer.com
I’ve never thought about entrepreneurship when it comes to trade associations.
I just thought they always existed.
Well, in the nascent world of building performance, I should have known better.
Listen in as we chat with Ryan Miller, the founder and executive director of the North Carolina Building Performance Association, as he describes his vision for the future of building performance.
He believes poor building performance is one big problem to solve and he aims to do it in his state by connecting all the stakeholders with education and information, as well as lobbying and training.
And he is not just stopping in his state as he supports and gets involved with like-minded organizations across the country.
Pay particular attention to the four points he notes in his strategic plan:
Market Valuation
Policy and legislation
Work Force Development
And Consumer Education
If you want to learn more you can reach Ryan via his website: www.BuildingNC.org
Some of our listeners have likely heard of the term Home Performance.
But have you heard of Home Performance 2.0?
Michael Housh and Neil Comparetto join us to describe how they are helping to develop this new approach to serving customers with total home performance. This is a systems being developed by Nate Adams and Ted Kidd.
They describe a well performing home as one that is healthy, comfortable, safe, durable and, as a side benefit, uses less energy.
Michael and Neil are both trained and experienced HVAC technicians; mechanics in their own words.
They discuss how some simple changes in the approach to the way technical work is presented is resulting in better business and happier clients.
They describe the HP 2.0 process as consisting of 6 steps: client education, initial PAID consult, a comprehensive planning process, executing the project, QC, and continuous optimization with monitoring.
A large part of the client education consists of the resources available at www.NateTheHouseWhisperer.com – there you will find an inexpensive book that educates consumers (and techs!) on home performance, as well as 2 free downloads(chapters from the book) to share with Clients: Home Comfort 101 and HVAC 101.
These steps help to remove the pain of being a residential HVAC business owner:
(Much of this is based on the Sandler Selling Process)
-
Avoid fights over stuff you can’t fix
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More Happy Clients - Actually SOLVE client problems, no band aids
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Smooth out monthly sales with large HP projects in off seasons
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Onboard Staff Faster-with something else for apprentices to do
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Fewer Unhappy Clients
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Reduce Mold Risk
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Reduce Boredom with Challenging projects and new twists all the time
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Reduce or eliminate free quotes
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Increase Ticket Sizes w/o Home Performance Jobs
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Lower sales and marketing costs, with better word of mouth and paid consultations.
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Bigger, more satisfying jobs vs Small jobs with lots of up-front work that often don’t solve problems
If you want to learn more you can reach Michael at MHoush@HoushHomeEnergy.com and Neil at Neil@ComparettoComfort.com or Nate Adams and Ted Kidd at Nate@EnergySmartOhio.com
You may know the answer to this question:
“Why would I want to use an air flow hood?”
You might not know the answer to this one:
“How do I find a good air flow hood?”
Steve Rogers, President and Owner of the Energy Conservatory, joins us to answer both of these questions as well as provide a rich background to his company and his career.
We hear how a customer ride-along stimulated a multifaceted investigation into the critical parameters involved in making great residential airflow measurements which could lead to a breakthrough product in the future
Steve explains how milkshakes help him focus on customers’ needs in the product development cycle.
Visit www.EnergyConservatory.com to learn more about their products and training resources which are available through several distributors including TruTechTools, www.trutechtools.com/EnergyConservatory
If you read this before January 24, 2019, you can sign up to watch the webinar Steve will present with TruTech Tools on this topic: sign up link is www.bit.ly/TEC-FLOW
If you read this after that date, a recording of that video will be present on the TruTech YouTube channel: www.bit.ly/TruTechTubes
Smartphones are great communications tools for contractors and techs.
But how do you organize and effectively share the right photos at the right time?
Listen in as Luke Hansen, former roofing contractor and inventor of the CompanyCam App, explains his journey from concept to successful business.
His low-cost service allows techs to share rich photo information without clogging up their photo library.
Rich info accompanies each photo: date, time, GPS location, user info and mark-ups & notes can be shared in your company, with the customer or with anyone you give the link to. Photos can later be sorted or filtered with data mentioned above.
If you’ve tried managing photos in DropBox, you know that takes a lot of discipline to keep things organized.
This app will save you hours of time cataloging photos or searching for ones you knew you took.
Video functionality is coming soon.
Go to www.CompanyCam.com/BHS for a special offer to listeners of this podcast.
How can an IOT (internet of things) based device help home dwellers and home performance contractors?
Listen as our guest Jacques Touillon, inventor of the foobot describes what got him started on the journey from a concept to a successful product sold around the world.
Jacques’ describes his vision of a future homes that has “invisible” sensors control systems to maintain superb indoor air quality.
We discuss the importance of data and data processing, as well as recent environmental events (the wild fires in the Western United States) which shape the continuing development of this product
He tells of Home Performance and HVAC contractors using the foobot and similar products to diagnose and solve home owner problems related to indoor air quality and comfort.
Curious about what it takes to be an entrepreneur?
Well, so are these three guys.
Listen in as business owners Tersh Blissett (Icebound HVAC & Refrigeration), Bryan Orr (Kalos Services) and Bill Spohn (TruTechTools, LTD) discuss what it means to them to run their own businesses.
This wide-ranging discussion produced many good nuggets of info as we discuss visionaries, idealism vs. realism, and breaking from the status quo amidst tons of other topics.
You can reach these members of the BlueCollar Roots network at
Tersh@BlueCollarRoots.com Service Business Mastery Podcast
Bryan@HVACRSchool.com HVAC School Podcast
Bill@BlueCollarRoots.com Building HVAC Science Podcast
We veer a little off the technical path in this episode as we discuss with Bryan Orr his educational missionary work in Haiti.
For the past 2 years, Bryan has led a small team of volunteers to first scope out and recently (November 2018) begin delivering basic trade education to native Haitians as young as 8 years old.
We hear about the leap of faith he has taken and how it has proven out in the overwhelmingly warm feedback from the people he has touched.
Learn how he addresses the logistical, practical and communications challenges he encounters with a systematic approach in a way similar to the way he breaks down the technical and business challenges in his everyday life as an HVAC Contractor/Owner.
We also gain insight into what is coming next for his work in Haiti.
If you want to learn more or get involved, reach out to Bryan@HVACRSchool.com
You’ll note no last names in this episode title, as I know Grace & Corbett so well.
And I think you need to know them better, too.
Grace McPhillips Lunsford and Corbett Lunsford have embarked on a road to change the culture of how home performance is perceived by homeowners and galvanize them into action.
A major section of this road opens in January 2019, where their TV Show, Home Diagnostics launches on PBS.
You can help spread the word on this topic by asking your local PBS station programmer to carry it. Learn more about this and see show clips (“the sizzle reel”) at www.HomeDiagnosis.tv
We explore how the topic of home performance is so personal and how the human characteristics of curiosity and playing games (metrics) can transform the market where all can benefit.
We also learn what a “tent pole” is and how it has not yet been erected in the field of home performance.
Find out how these brave souls continue to walk the talk after their 32-city tour in a tiny lab and into the construction of their new high-performance home in the Atlanta area.
Listen as we gain insight into how their technical minds work in a musical fashion: how melody, harmony and timing are analogous to the relationships between materials and systems in the home and the sequencing and consequences of the decisions made in choosing, using and install these systems.
This is a really rich episode, so please listen closely! And I will have them back on the podcast.
The hub for all their activities is found at www.buildingperformanceworkshop.com/
In this episode, Bill chats with James Childre, founder of RedPointMontana.com, a home performance specialist.
James shares with us his enthusiasm for the field and describes his persuasive persistence in preaching home performance in his role as a rater and a home inspector.
James discusses his approach with contractors and consumers as well as where he looks for improving at his trade.
We explore the topic of making change happen and not losing faith in spite of the apparent slow movement in the industry of home performance.
A review from his website well characterizes James: thorough, professional and considerate.
“I knew that James would be thorough in his inspection, Professional in the way he handled himself and be considerate in answering my sellers’ questions.”
You can reach James by email at James@RedPointMontana.com or visit his website at www.RedPointMontana.com
After 31 years in business, 3 major career changes and 10 products (and counting) later, John Pastorello shares with us how, and more importantly why he built his business, Refrigeration Technologies.
John shares with us how growing up in the Atomic Age spurred his curiosity about the atom and yearning to be a nuclear physicist.
Fast forward 30 years later and John has managed to create a successful family owned and operated specialty chemical business focusing on all aspects of the air conditioning and refrigeration trades.
Learn from John how he approaches his work and gain some insight on how he transitioned from bench chemist to HVAC Contractor, then contracting business owner to the founder of Refrigeration Technologies.
Oh, and we also find out how Nylog got its name and how this product was developed by accident.
You can reach John at JP@RefrigTech.com or visit their website at www.RefrigTech.com
Blake Reid shares with us the challenges and rewards of doing home performance work in Hawaii which has the most expensive energy, 12 climate zones, no energy code, an active volcano, and an aggressive state climate goal.
As a knowledgeable, ethical and honest “wiz kid” contractor, Blake made a huge decision and moved his family from Ithaca, NY to Hawaii to “set up shop” as a home performance contractor.
Listen to Blake describe some of his motivations to move as well as why he choose the name www.TerraWattHome.com for his company.
Blake shares many of his business techniques which meld with his personal philosophies and encourages all contactors not to “get stuck”.
Listeners are encouraged to go to his website and read his blog posts, and if interested, fill out a contact request to get in touch with Blake.
What is LEED?
Who is involved in LEED?
Why should I care about LEED?
In today’s episode, Bill Spohn welcomes one of the leaders in the green building industry, Charlie Cichetti, Owner of Green Building Education Services (www.GEBS.com) and the Sustainable Investment Group (www.SIGEarth.com).
Charlie covers the history of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) as well as recent changes and where things are headed in the future. We hear about the shift in focus from buildings to the people that work, live and play in buildings.
Charlie shares with us details from his career and passion for the industry and the work he does. He also hosts a podcast where he recently interviewed Bill Spohn. You’ll find it here: Green Building Matters Podcast, Episode 26:
Several times we note the Well Building Standard (www.wellcertified.com) as well as other standards and a new health oriented commercial building certification sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control (US CDC) called FitWel (www.fitwel.org)
What will housing look like in the future?
Who are some of the leaders?
What are some the topics driving this industry?
Bill Spohn welcomes back Chris Dorsi, contractor, educator, author and founder of HabitatX.com to give an overview of all the great discussions held at the 2018 HabitatX conference.
We discuss the human aspect of housing which ties in intimately with the nature of this conference; it’s about the people. We take a walk through the 3 days of the conference* discussing how the structure of the agenda has evolved, who the participants are, including the 3 HabitatX Fellows that were sponsored this year. (Learn more about the fellowship application process by contacting CDorsi@HabitatX.com.)
- follow the agenda at www.habitatx.com/2018-summer-national-conference/agenda/
We touch upon the timely topics of passive house construction, healthy homes, building material content disclosures and generating consumer demand for high performing homes. Check out the resources at www.loveschackarchitecture.com, www.PearlCertification.com and www.HaywardScore.com and www.transparencycatalog.com to learn more.
New this year is the publication of the HabitatX journal at Medium.com. See there the write ups that mirror this year’s agenda: www.medium.com/habitat-x-journal. Check it out.
You don’t want to miss this conference next year… the 2019 agenda will start to take shape by Fall 2018, so check back frequently at www.HabitatX.com
Bill Spohn welcomes Chris Dorsi, contractor, educator, author and founder of HabitatX.com. Chris describes the current arc of his career which he describes as serial interventions starting with cutting timber for housing.
Chris shares with us his very thoughtful, respectful and practical perspectives on the housing industry, with a focus on building better habitats for people. We discuss passive houses, factory-built homes and the lost cost of space that no one wants to live in.
You’ll also be amongst the first to hear about his new initiative: House and Home: The New Pattern Language where Chris seeks to place in the context of today’s world the concepts set forth in the 1977 publication: A Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander, et al.
In this episode, amongst many other topics, you’ll learn why he founded HabitatX and the meaning for the name for this un-conference/movement.
Show notes AirQuest 4 In this episode, Bill Spohn continues where he left off in Episode 3 of his AirQuest series, discussing airflow measuring methods and techniques. Bill covers vane anemometers as well as the garbage bag method (bag inflation device or BID) For a free copy of the ANSI standard mentioned in this episode go to www.bit.ly/RESNET-380 If you’d like to see a BID in action, the EPA Energy Star program created this explanatory video which can be viewed at this link: www.bit.ly/380-BID For a 4 part video lesson by Bill, start with lesson one on YouTube, at this link: http://bit.ly/AirFlowVideos If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Bill at Bill_Spohn@BlueCollarRoots.com
Show notes AirQuest 3 In this episode, Bill Spohn continues where he left off in Episode 2 of his AirQuest series, discussing airflow measuring methods and techniques. Bill Covers the TrueFlow measuring grid, air flow capture hoods and thermal (hot wire) anemometers. For a 4 part video lesson by Bill, start with lesson one on YouTube, at this link: http://bit.ly/AirFlowVideos If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Bill at Bill_Spohn@BlueCollarRoots.com
Today Ed Kisiel of EKABuild Corp. joins us to discuss the way he goes about constructing super tight homes using standard construction techniques. Ed describes his process and his respect for the House as a System concept: that is the envelope, mechanicals and architectural design all need to work together in harmony. He’s an open minded civil engineer turned builder who has a thirst for learning more about building science, building materials and modes of construction. Some of Ed’s favorite resources include Matt Risinger (www.youtube.com/user/MattRisinger), Allison Bailles (www.energyvanguard.com), Green Building Advisor (www.greenbuildingadvisor.com) and Joe Lstiburek (www.buildingscience.com). If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Ed via his website www.EKABuild.com
Bryan Barnes of Aeroseal, LLC joins us today to discuss two revolutionary technologies that greatly impact Building Performance: AeroSeal for sealing ducts from the inside out and AeroBarrier for sealing a building enclosure in the same manner. We hear about the science behind Aeroseal and the dramatic performance increases in comfort, energy and the health of the environment. Their smart-liquid sealant turns into an aerosol in their machine and actual finds and seals holes and gaps up to ⅝” in stated performance, yet larger holes have been sealed. If you’re an HVAC contractor, consider AeroSeal to make you customers more comfortable with far less time & labor in duct sealing in retrofit work allowing you to reach buried ducts. It’s also a time saver in new construction duct sealing, too. If you’re a builder, consider what AeroBarrier can do minimize the air changes of the envelope you are building to meet and exceed any existing or anticipated energy codes. If you are interested in learning more, or becoming a dealer of these highly differentiating products, go to www.AeroSeal.com or www.AeroBarrier.com or email our guest Bryan at Bryan.Barnes@AeroSeal.com
In this episode Bill chats with Ted Kidd and Nate Adams, two people who share an extreme passion for making better home performance the norm and not the exception. Our conversation gets tough on state energy programs, utility-based programs as well as BPI where we develop out the pros and cons. You can learn more about their aspirations and get some great tools and free resources by visiting www.NateTheHouseWhisperer.com You can reach Ted through Nate by emailing at Nate@EnergySmartOhio.com or calling Nate at +1-330-524-6495. They have written a easy reading, attractively produced, comprehensive book which you can find by searching for “The Home Comfort Book”.
In today’s episode, Terje Gronas tells us about his 2-year struggle to get the healthy, comfortable and energy efficient home he wanted for his family. He discusses the heavy study and personal interventions he had to make to get what he wanted and paid a premium for. “T” talks about the big picture for contractors and techs: the air in a home can greatly affect you're families health and even, perhaps, health care costs overall. As more and more technicians take pride and care in their work, Terje believes you can have a net positive impact on families and in a cumulative sense, society. He has built a Facebook page to share his journey; search for “Energy Star Homes, The Horrors”
On today’s show, Bill welcomes Matt Rivers from Onset Computer, manufacturer of the world famous line of Hobo Data Loggers. Matt describes their three main markets: Indoor, Outdoor (Weather) and Water Quality. We hear of the long list of parameters that can be logged that allow technicians, engineers and researchers to collect meaningful time stamped data to do better work. Also discussed is the positive impact of BlueTooth connections, cloud-based data services as well as cellular and gateways for remote, real time monitoring. With loggers starting at under $50, everyone has a chance at improving their game with data. More info at www.OnSetComp.com or to purchase www.TruTechTools.com/Hobo
Today we learn about how Amanda Hatherly has morphed the traditional approaches of technical training into something much more interactive and interesting. Over the last 8 years she helped to develop the Energy Smart Academy at the Santa Fe (New Mexico) Community College. She described some really cool online tools that help people understand the invisible and confusing aspects of heat and moisture flow in a building. Check them out for free at www.SimBuilding.info You can connect with Amanda by filling out the contact form at www.EnergySmartAcademy.info or emailing her at amanda.hatherly@sfcc.edu Learn more about the accrediting body for her program at IREC at https://irecusa.org/
Bryan Orr and Bill Spohn spent 3 busy days learning, listening and absorbing the vibe at the world’s largest HVACR trade show, the AHR Expo which took place in Chicago at the end of January 2018. Come walk the auditory aisles with these two friendly nerds and see where the market is headed as a whole and with specific products.
On this episode, Bill Spohn welcomes Bethany Profaizer and Amy Beley from Pearl Certification (www.PearlCertification.com). Pearl has created a unique and very cost effective, third party certification for the major “invisible” elements of a home: building shell (or envelope), HVAC/mechanical systems, energy baseload, home management and photovoltaic (PV) solar. Contractors actively working in any of these are disciplines are eligible to apply. Now active in 6 states and the District of Columbia, Pearl is partnering with new contractors and real estate professionals from across the country every day. Unlike other programs, there is no pre-qualification necessary for the home. Pearl has worked hard to create a system that integrates with contractor’s sales and work systems, while providing a tangible record of the value for the home owner and real estate world. If you’re a contractor who wants to get a lasting record (it stays with the property) that recognizes your good work, contact Pearl. Your customers will like the fact that they can get documented credit for your work when they go to sell. A third-party study found Pearl Certified Homes are getting 2-10% better prices to comparable non-certified homes. To learn more about becoming a Pearl Partner, contact Bethany at Bethany@PearlCertification.com
Joe has worked for for CLEAResult (www.CLEAResult.com ) for over 10 years. His company is a fast growing, highly focused implementer of utility-based energy savings programs. Joe discusses the ins and outs of building an energy savings program for a utility, especially those aspects that involve HVAC and building performance contractors. Joe mentions the Home Performance Coalition’s conferences as a great place to learn and network (www.homeperformance.org/conferences/). He also discusses inspirational training he received from John Tooley (www.linkedin.com/in/john-tooley-37a89210/ ) and the Florida Solar Energy Center (www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/). Joe also notes the related aspects of the RESNET organization and conference (www.RESNET.us). And here’s a link to a photo of the tree house that Joe built around a centuries old tree in his yard : www.bit.ly/Joe-TreeHouse
Here is a link to more photos from his TreeHouse project:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1fbnTeci0zaEN5oL1A0-zOGtwbhywoq6o?usp=sharing
Today we talk with Marko Bruinsma, President of Testo, inc. Marko gives us an overview of how his background from destructive testing in labs, to work with rockets and propellants to repping instrumentation shaped his career and lead to his current leadership role with testo. We also learn about the history of testo, the worldwide scope of the organization and the breadth of product lines – some lines that all listeners may not be aware of. Some handy links from the conversation: Email testo at info@testo.com OR call them at 1-800-227-0729 (US and Canada) Visit their website at www.testo.com Review their US calibration lab at: www.bit.ly/testo-cal AHRI Standard 1260 for combustion analyzers: www.bit.ly/AHRI-1260 Stop by and meet Marko in person at the testo booth, # 7365, at the AHR expo in Chicago in January 2018: www.ahrexpo.com/
Today Bill speaks with JWest, a building performance practitioner and educator. J can be reached at JWest@hph2tc.com (his consulting business) or at JWest@CEDAnet.org (the community action agency in Chicago that he works for as Training Director.) We learn about The House at Cornell Tech Center on Roosevelt Island near NY City, which is the tallest and largest residential Passive House high-rise in the world. J discusses the HabitatX Conference as something listeners should investigate (www.HabitatX.com) He also discussed Passive House Concepts: you can learn more at http://www.phius.org/home-page or http://naphnetwork.org/
Today Bill speaks with Gary Reecher, a dedicated HVAC/R technician from day one. Gary discusses how his background in the US Air Force as an Environmental Systems Technician helped shaped his interest and approach to HVAC/R. Gary is very active in the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (www.RSES.org) and encourages listeners to look at attending a local, regional or national meeting, subscribing to the journal or looking at the excellent training books and webinars that they produce. Gary discussed the industry shortage of technicians and installers, and more importantly instructors. He encourages listeners to get involved if able and interested. Contact your local tech school and consider joining the advisory board, if nothing else. Gary is also involved with Skills USA (www.skillsusa.org ) which is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. Gary’s favorite online group is the www.HVACRSchool.com, their daily tech tips and their associated FaceBook page. Gary also supports the work of the Council of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Educators (www.carehvac.org). Gary continues to help the industry in ways small even though he is well past retirement.
Today Bill speaks with Griffin Hagle, Weatherization Manager of the North Slope Borough in Barrow (Utqiagvik), Alaska. Griffin discusses what lead him to live and work above the arctic circle, as well as some of the challenges and rewards in doing so. In the show Griffin mentions the HabitatX Conference (www.HabitatX.com) and an article on the unhealthy air in rural Alaska homes, featuring the work of Griffin’s friend and collaborator, AJ Salkoski, who works with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium in Anchorage: https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/rural-alaska/2017/08/06/unhealthy-air-in-rural-alaska-homes-targeted-in-tribal-program/
Today’s guest is Larry Zarker, CEO of BPI, the Building Performance Institute. BPI is the nation’s premier organization for certification and standards-setting for home performance professionals. You will find them on the web at www.BPI.org which is also the site for building performance professionals. The BPI standards for home performance work can be found at www.bpi.org/standards. There is a separate site for homeowners at www.bpihomeowner.org with a blog for consumers found here: http://www.bpihomeowner.org/blog Everyone is welcomed to take the home quiz to see what savings building performance is available. Just type in your US street address! www.bpihomeowner.org/take-home-quiz We discussed the consumer trend towards an interest in Healthy Homes and noted the new BPI Healthy Home Evaluator Credentials (www.bpi.org/certified-professionals/healthy-home-evaluator) as well as the new organization support them called The Healthy Home Environment Association (www.myhhea.org ) Larry noted the key conferences to attend are those from the multifaceted Home Performance Coalition: www.homeperformance.org/ including the main conference coming up in April 2108 in Philadelphia, for info on that go here: www.homeperformance.org/conferences/HPC18
Today we interviewed Steve Baden the founder and present day executive director of RESNET: The Residential Energy Services Network. There are now 2 million US homes that are energy rated from Alaska to Puerto Rico. Listen to Steve discuss his background and motivations for starting RESNET, a home energy rating system that benefits consumers and builders. There is also good potential for enterprising HVAC Contractors who might add home energy rating on to their business. Links to topics discussed in the episode: RESNET’s consumer facing website: www.RESNET.us RESNET’s website for Professionals: www.resnet.us/professional Info on RESNET’s annual conference, coming up in Orlando Feb 26-28, 2018: www.conference.resnet.us/ (Bill Spohn will be presenting on 3 topics at this event.) Link to the RESNET Standards mentioned in the podcast: www.resnet.us/professional/standards The ANSI/ Air Conditioning Contractors of American (ACCA), HVAC Quality installation standard, QI-5 You‘ll find several standards at this link: www.acca.org/standards/quality NREL: The National Renewable Energy Lab: www.nrel.gov/
In AirQuest part 2 Bill shares his depth of knowledge on airflow and measuring airflow including mass flow rate, CFM and much more..
In AirQuest part 1 Bill shares his depth of knowledge on airflow and measuring airflow including mass flow rate, CFM and much more..
It takes more than a good HVAC system to deliver comfort.
In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn speaks with Robert Bean about the science of true human comfort. Some of his concepts are brutally logical and may cause you to rethink your approach to selling or delivering comfort. Find out what he calls “the pet rock” of construction.
Robert is a seasoned technologist, researcher and construction professional whose mantra is “Design for People; Good Buildings Will Follow.” Listen to his perspectives on code grade construction versus construction that delivers full environmental comfort. He states that a key element is to learn the language of comfort before exploring too far.
Robert will dialog with you for free via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbeanret/. For LOADS of resources and to inquire about his consultant services, reach him at www.healthyheating.com/
Other resources referred to:
His 5-page article covering key points of his concepts: https://view.imirus.com/1166/document/12309/page/8
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55-2017 and User Manual, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, www.ASHRAE.org
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2016
Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings, http://www.ashrae.org/
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 90.2-2007 -- Energy Efficient Design of Low-Rise Residential Buildings, http://www.ashrae.org/
CBE Comfort Tool, Center for the Built Environment: http://comfort.cbe.berkeley.edu/
Cardinal Glass Tool: http://www.cardinalcorp.com/technology/applications/energy-calculator/
Positive Energy, leaders in the application of human factored building science™, https://positiveenergy.pro/
EnergyDocs, a leading Home Performance Company, http://energydocs.net/
Matt Risinger, Risinger Fine Home Building, https://www.youtube.com/user/MattRisinger, http://mattrisinger.com/
Bill covers applications for infrared thermometers, how they can be effectively used, how they work and some common mistakes to avoid.
Nate Adams from Energy Smart Ohio joins Bill on the podcast and talks Indoor Air Quality and Humidity Control in Homes.
In this episode Bill introduces the podcast and what it is all about by dropping some huge knowledge bombs about building science for HVAC professionals.
HVAC overview book mentioned: HVAC 1.0
Available for purchase at TruTechTools
https://www.trutechtools.com/HVAC1
Get $5 off using coupon code “bookme”
ACCA QI5: Quality HVAC Installation Specification for Residential and Commercial HVAC Applications
Available free at http://bit.ly/ACCA-QI5
AHRI 1260 Standard for Performance Rating of Portable Flue Gas Combustion Analyzers
Available free at http://bit.ly/AHRI-1260