HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, Bryan interviews Zachary Ortwine, a duct cleaning professional who provides insights into ethical duct cleaning practices. The conversation delves deep into the complexities of cleaning different types of ductwork, the importance of proper assessment, and the potential challenges in maintaining indoor air quality. Zach emphasizes the critical role of thorough inspection and honest communication with clients. He explains that not all duct systems are equally cleanable, and professionals must carefully assess factors like duct material, contaminant type, and cleaning feasibility. Metal ducts can be cleaned more aggressively, while fiberglass ducts require a more delicate approach. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the underlying issues that contribute to indoor air quality problems, such as system design, maintenance, and home living conditions. The podcast explores the evolution of duct cleaning technologies and safety considerations. Zach shares insights into modern fiberglass materials, which have improved safety compared to older versions, and discusses the importance of proper cleaning and coating techniques. The conversation also touches on broader indoor air quality challenges, including the impact of tighter building envelopes, ventilation issues, and the potential health risks of prolonged exposure to indoor contaminants. Key Topics Covered: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Ethical considerations in duct cleaning Assessment techniques for determining cleanability Different duct materials (metal, flex, fiberglass) and cleaning approaches Indoor air quality challenges in modern homes NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) standards Importance of technician certification and experience Ventilation and its impact on indoor air quality Proper testing and verification of cleaning results Coating techniques for fiberglass ducts Misconceptions about antimicrobial treatments   Learn more about NADCA and certified professionals at https://nadca.com/.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

In this short podcast episode, Zach joins Bryan to answer a common duct maintenance question: Should I fog or sanitize my ducts? The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) outlines the uses of chemical products. Adding chemicals is usually a last resort in flex or sheet metal (externally wrapped) duct systems; they should NOT be used on ducts with internal liners or are made of duct board or any other material with porous surfaces.  Fog is typically applied while a vacuum is running at the opposite end of the duct. It liquefies on surfaces, and a lot of contractors don't go in and dry off the duct surfaces. It's difficult to coat the entire interior of a duct system with the chemical to make it as effective as possible, and the residue creates a moist, sticky film that actually encourages microbial growth in the ductwork. On top of that, some people may be sensitive to the chemicals.  In many cases, replacing ductwork that has been confirmed to have microbial growth is more reliable. Chemical duct sanitation often has more of a perceived benefit than long-term results. The use of chemical cleaners in ductwork is similar to that of using some line set flushes without forcing a solid pig through the line set to pick up the residue afterward. Ultimately, the customer has to make an informed decision based on the problem and knowledge of the benefits and drawbacks of chemical solutions.   NADCA's white papers, including "Chemical Product Applications in HVAC Systems," are available at https://nadca.com/industry-professionals/nadca-white-papers.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Bryan and Craig Migliaccio (AC Service Tech)dive deep into the complexities of managing condensate drainage in high-efficiency (90%+) gas furnaces. The conversation begins with a clear explanation of why these furnaces produce condensate in the first place - they have two heat exchangers that extract so much heat from the combustion gases that water vapor condenses out. This condensate is acidic (pH 3-5) and requires special consideration for drainage and disposal. The discussion explores various challenges contractors face when installing these systems, particularly in cold climates where freezing is a concern. Craig shares practical solutions from his experience in New Jersey, including using larger diameter pipes for exterior drainage and creating air gaps to prevent complete freezing. They address the ongoing debate about whether to combine AC condensate lines with furnace condensate lines, noting that while it's technically possible, there are potential risks and code considerations to keep in mind. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on code compliance and best practices for condensate disposal. The International Mechanical Code (IMC) provides several acceptable options for drainage, including floor drains, utility sinks, and standpipes. However, as Craig points out, local interpretations and requirements can vary significantly, making it crucial for contractors to maintain good relationships with their local inspectors and understand their specific jurisdiction's requirements. Key Topics Covered: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> How 90% efficient furnaces produce condensate through their dual heat exchanger system The acidic nature of furnace condensate and its corrosion potential Solutions for preventing condensate line freezing in cold climates Pros and cons of combining AC and furnace condensate lines Code-compliant drainage options (IMC 307.2) Use of condensate pumps as a solution for difficult drainage situations Importance of proper trapping and venting in condensate systems Requirements for auxiliary drain pans under furnaces Role of condensate switches and safety controls Challenges with different installation locations (crawl spaces, basements, etc.) Considerations for neutralizer usage when draining into septic systems Best practices for maintaining professional relationships with code officials   Check out some of Craig's great educational books at https://www.acservicetech.com/.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

In this unique episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan interviews Donovan Ryckis, CEO of Ethos Benefits, diving deep into the complex world of healthcare financing and employee benefits. Ryckis shares his journey from financial advising to becoming a healthcare benefits consultant, driven by a mission to expose and transform the inherently problematic healthcare system. The conversation reveals the stark inefficiencies in traditional healthcare models, where insurance companies and healthcare providers often prioritize profit over patient care. Ryckis explains how most employers have been led to believe they cannot control healthcare costs, accepting annual increases as inevitable. By applying a fiduciary approach—similar to financial advising—Ethos Benefits helps companies like Kalos dramatically reduce healthcare expenses while maintaining or improving employee care. A key highlight of the discussion is the innovative strategies Ethos implements, such as negotiating directly with healthcare providers, exposing pharmacy benefit manager markup, and implementing direct primary care. These approaches not only reduce costs but also provide employees with better, more personalized healthcare experiences. The podcast demonstrates that by taking a transparent, data-driven approach, companies can create win-win healthcare solutions that benefit both the organization and its employees. Key Topics Covered: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Healthcare financing vs. traditional insurance models Pharmacy benefit manager markup and hidden costs Negotiating medical claims and reducing excessive billing Direct primary care and its benefits Strategies for controlling healthcare expenses Importance of transparency in healthcare pricing The documentary "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare" Challenges in the current healthcare system Empowering employees through better healthcare options   Learn more about Ethos Benefits at https://ethosbenefits.com/ and the Ethos Effect Podcast at https://www.ethoseffectpodcast.com/.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Chris Hughes and Steve Rogers from The Energy Conservatory discuss TEC's TrueFlow technology and its crucial role in predicting airflow issues in the sales process, particularly for heat pump retrofits. They explain how the TrueFlow app helps contractors accurately measure both static pressure and airflow in existing systems, enabling them to predict whether proposed equipment changes will work effectively. This is especially vital when considering the growing trend of replacing gas furnaces with heat pumps, as the airflow requirements can differ significantly. The conversation delves into a detailed example of replacing an 80% efficient 48,000 BTU furnace with a heat pump. They demonstrate how the airflow requirement would nearly double from 652 CFM to 1,200 CFM, potentially causing the static pressure to quadruple due to Fan Law 2 principles. This dramatic increase could lead to significant performance issues if not properly addressed during the system design phase. The experts emphasize that using TrueFlow during the sales process allows contractors to identify potential problems and necessary modifications before installation rather than discovering issues during callbacks. The discussion also covers the ideal workflow for system assessment and sales, starting with customer comfort evaluation and proper load calculations. It's important to reduce loads through envelope improvements when possible, particularly in cold climates where heat pump retrofits are becoming more common. Proper system sizing often means going smaller rather than larger, contrary to common industry practices, and the worst HVAC systems are often found in expensive custom homes rather than tract housing. Key Topics Covered: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> TrueFlow technology and its role in system forecasting Fan Law 2 and its impact on static pressure when changing airflow Heat pump retrofit challenges and considerations The importance of accurate load calculations Dual fuel systems as a solution for cold climates The relationship between airflow and static pressure Sales process integration of technical measurements Common issues with oversized equipment The importance of envelope assessment Methods for reducing system loads Proper duct sizing and modification strategies The role of proper filter sizing and selection The benefits of flat-rate pricing for duct modifications Training resources and support available for TrueFlow users   Check out TEC's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@energyconservatory, and you can visit TEC's website at https://energyconservatory.com/.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan and Mike from DITEK talk about what to do in tricky electrical scenarios, such as when the MCA is 27 and you have a 50A breaker. When you size an HVAC system for compatibility with voltage monitors, like the DITEK Kool Guard, you need to pay attention to the MCA (minimum circuit ampacity), which should not be confused with MOCP (maximum overcurrent protection or breaker size). As long as the MCA is 40 amps or lower, you can attach the HVAC condenser to the Kool Guard. The KG2 also accepts wire sizes up to 6 AWG. The Kool Guard is NOT a source of overcurrent protection; it is a voltage monitor rated for carrying current, which means ratings will be in MCA, not MOCP. MOCP is designed to deal with high starting amps and lets users know the maximum allowable current for a circuit so that it can trip properly when that current is exceeded. According to Section 440 of the National Electrical Code (NEC), motors with internal overload protection allow for a difference between the MCA and MOCP. You may find higher MOCPs on inverter-driven systems.   Learn more about DITEK at https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Bryan discusses surge protection devices (SPDs) with Mike from DITEK, focusing on practical applications for HVAC contractors and how to provide value to clients. Mike emphasizes that surge protection is essential for modern HVAC systems, particularly given that they are typically the most expensive appliance in a home and increasingly rely on sophisticated electronic components like variable-speed compressors and inverter boards. The conversation delves into installation best practices, with a detailed discussion of proper wiring techniques for SPDs. Mike explains that surge protectors should be installed in parallel with the circuit, typically at the disconnect, and addresses common concerns about double-tapping lugs and ground connections. He emphasizes the importance of keeping wire lengths as short as possible and provides guidance for installations both with dedicated disconnects and panel-direct connections. A significant portion of the episode focuses on DITEK's Kool Guard (KG2) product, which represents an evolution in HVAC protection by combining surge protection with voltage monitoring. Mike explains how modern HVAC equipment, particularly inverter-driven systems, is increasingly sensitive to both over-voltage and under-voltage conditions. The Kool Guard monitors voltage on each phase independently and provides visual indication of fault conditions through LED indicators, making it easier for homeowners to identify potential issues without opening electrical enclosures. Key Topics Covered: ·        Why every modern HVAC system needs surge protection ·        Installation locations and proper wiring techniques for SPDs ·        The difference between line-side and load-side installation ·        Ground connection best practices ·        How to protect both condensers and air handlers ·        The evolution from basic surge protection to voltage monitoring ·        The importance of voltage monitoring for modern inverter-driven equipment ·        How Kool Guard monitors voltage phase-to-ground vs line-to-line ·        Common power quality issues beyond lightning strikes ·        How to discuss surge protection with customers ·        The limitations of utility-provided surge protection ·        The impact of aging power infrastructure on power quality ·        The advantages of USA-made surge protection products ·        How voltage monitoring prevents damage from brownouts and over-voltage conditions ·        The pre-programmed voltage protection ranges in Kool Guard ·        Visual indication features for fault conditions   Learn more about DITEK at https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

In this short episode, Bryan clears up the confusion behind pumping vs. compression. Pumping is usually associated with liquid. Liquid, like vapor, is a fluid, but it's a lot denser and is essentially incompressible because the molecules are close together. Liquid volume varies based on temperature and density, but we can't squish the molecules together. That's why compressors with very little axial and radial compliance fail when flooded; they can't compress the liquid. A circulator pump in a hydronic system is an example of a pump that pushes liquid along, but the pressure difference across the pump is minimal compared to that of a compressor; the same is true of liquid vs. vapor CO2.  However, vapor molecules are far apart and can be squished together to take up a smaller volume. That's why vapor can go through compressors, which take a fluid of one volume and apply pressure to shrink it to a smaller volume, raising the temperature in the process. Pneumatics, as opposed to hydraulics, utilize compression to move vapor around in a circuit. Recovery machines need to be able to compress vapor refrigerant and pump liquid into the recovery tank. Compressors and pumps can either be positive displacement or non-positive displacement systems. A positive displacement system creates a trap and forces a fixed amount of fluid through a system, like a scroll compressor or a circulator pump. Refrigerant volumes may vary because vapor density varies with temperature and pressure (the volume flow is the same, but the mass flow varies). A condensing fan motor, on the other hand, is dynamic and varies the volume of air it moves in response to pressure, as the mechanism relies on velocity and kinetic energy to move air.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Trevor Matthews returns to the HVAC School Podcast to discuss building tech confidence and personal growth in the HVAC and refrigeration industry. The conversation explores the transformative power of self-investment, continuous learning, and maintaining a positive mindset. Trevor shares his personal journey from a hesitant technician to a successful business owner, highlighting the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones and embracing continuous improvement. Some fundamental mindset shifts are necessary for professional development. Trevor candidly discusses his early career struggles, including his initial fear of public speaking and technical challenges. He emphasizes that confidence isn't something that happens overnight but is built through consistent effort, studying, and maintaining a willingness to learn. The key to the growth mindset is to focus on personal progress instead of comparing your achievements to those of others, and it's a perspective that can dramatically impact professional and personal growth. Self-investment consists of dedicating time to learning, staying physically and mentally healthy, and maintaining a positive attitude, and it can open up unprecedented opportunities. Many technicians have transformed their careers by adopting a growth mindset, continuously seeking knowledge, and being willing to step outside their comfort zones. Key Topics Covered: Building professional confidence The importance of continuous learning Overcoming fear and self-doubt in technical careers Strategies for personal and professional growth Maintaining a positive mindset Investing in self-improvement Balancing work, health, and personal development The power of small, consistent actions Avoiding comparison with others Techniques for staying motivated Recommended resources for personal development Recommended Resources Mentioned: Book: "Limitless" by Jim Kwik Book: "Good to Great" by Jim Collins Book: "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill Book: "Mastery" by Robert Greene Podcast: Hidden Brain Podcast: AC Service Tech   Check out Refrigeration Mentor at https://refrigerationmentor.com/ or email Trevor at [email protected].  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about the CPS Molecular Transformator and what it does. The Molecular Transformator is a version of a tube-in-shell heat exchanger, which is a method of exchanging heat from one fluid medium to another fluid medium. Tubes containing a fluid pass through a shell containing water or glycol, and there is a heat exchange between that secondary fluid and the fluid being circulated in the tubes. In a Molecular Transformator, the fluid being circulated is recovered refrigerant, and the secondary fluid is water (in a bucket), which absorbs heat from the refrigerant and cools it down to make sure that the refrigerant enters the recovery tank as a liquid. Refrigerant recovery machines have condensers inside of them, but they are quite small and don't hold a lot of refrigerant by design; many recovery machines use microchannel coils. A lot of the time, the refrigerant leaving a recovery machine is a liquid-vapor mix and too high-temperature; a lot of people run a hose over the tank or put it in a bucket of ice. The "Molecular Transformator" tries to settle the vapor molecules down into a liquid; it transforms the vapor molecules using the same mechanism as a tube-in-shell heat exchanger. The main issue is that there will be leftover refrigerant in the Molecular Transformator after recovery. However, you can mitigate this problem with ball valves and proper purging. Do so responsibly to avoid venting refrigerant.   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.  Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.   Subscribe to our YouTube channel.  Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.