10 Things I've Learned In the Last 10 Years

This podcast episode is of Bryan's session from the HVAC School Symposium, "10 Things I've Learned in the Last 10 Years." Delivered as HVAC School approaches its 10-year milestone and Kalos hits 20 years, Bryan blends technical know-how with personal stories, revealing how his “expertise” is a product of constant learning—often from the very audience he’s addressing. Bryan’s presentation weaves together practical HVAC lessons and relatable anecdotes, offering a glimpse into his growth as a technician, educator, and leader. He tackles wire sizing versus breaker sizing, debunking outdated myths tied to the National Electrical Code and sharing tales of sparring with inspectors over code-compliant innovations. On vent sweating and duct leakage, he provides actionable fixes—like sealing boots and tackling attic moisture—while urging techs to look beyond bandaids. Bryan also dives into coil corrosion, distinguishing formicary from galvanic causes and advocating for field-driven research over manufacturer spin. His interactive style shines as he pauses for audience questions, fostering a dynamic exchange where attendees refine his insights. The talk balances technical depth with human wisdom, spotlighting patience, joy, and consistency as cornerstones of his journey. Bryan recounts Eureka moments—like unraveling why high-latent markets defy evaporator temperature expectations—and credits mentors like Jim Bergmann and peers like Jordan Cummings for sharpening his perspective. He wraps up with a personal touch, addressing work-life balance as a father of 10 and business owner, advocating for mutual sacrifice with family over unilateral trade-offs.  Topics Covered: Wire Sizing vs. Breaker Sizing: Debunks NEC myths and shares strategies for navigating inspector challenges. Vent Sweating Solutions: Offers practical fixes like sealing boots and managing attic moisture sources. Evaporator Temperature in High-Latent Markets: Explains unexpected suction pressure behavior with lower airflow. Control Layers in Ducts and Walls: Clarifies roles of vapor, air, and thermal barriers in system design. Formicary vs. Galvanic Corrosion: Differentiates coil leak causes, highlighting VOCs and flux issues. Low-Level CO Monitoring: Stresses its importance for safety in homes with combustion appliances. Duct Leakage: Links leaks to moisture and pressure woes, with visual diagnostic tips. Filtration Importance: Pushes for larger, sealed filters over inadequate factory setups. Compression Ratio and Dehumidification: Explores why ductless/inverter systems falter at moisture removal. Personal Growth and Joy: Ties patience, consistency, and community to a rewarding career. Work-Life Balance: Shares lessons on balancing family and work through shared sacrifice.   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 answers a listener-submitted question about using R-290 as a drop-in refrigerant for R-22 systems. It is NOT safe to use R-290 as a drop-in, but there are some similar properties between the two and some interesting thought experiments within this topic. R-290 is propane, a hydrocarbon that belongs to the family of natural refrigerants. R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant that has undergone a manufacturing/importation phaseout in the USA. They are both single-component refrigerants, not blends. Both of them have similar operating pressures and oil carry. However, the latent heat of vaporization of R-290 is almost double that of R-22, which makes it extremely effective as a refrigerant. The main issue with using R-290 is that it is highly flammable and explosive (A3), and it has very small charges (500 grams). Around 2010, some people started selling R-290 blends as drop-in alternatives for R-22. In theory, that combination would work very well, but it is not a safe or legal option. R-290 is currently used in sealed, self-contained equipment. However, it could be the future, especially if our industry goes for refrigerants with lower GWPs and uses flame-free fittings and tubing cutters. It's also worth noting that A2L refrigerants do not contain R-290 or any other hydrocarbons, but it is possible that the industry will gradually embrace the more flammable refrigerants like R-290.   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 episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan welcomes Jeff from Copeland to discuss the critical topic of flooding and slugging in compressors. Jeff, calling in from frigid Minnesota (at negative 19°F), explains the differences between these harmful conditions and how they can damage compressor systems. The conversation begins by differentiating between flood back and flooded starts. Flood back occurs during system operation when control of the evaporator is lost, often due to airflow issues. Flooded starts happen after the system has been off, when refrigerant migrates to the compressor oil. Both conditions can lead to slugging - when liquid refrigerant enters the compression chamber, causing immediate damage to valves and internal components. While flood back and flooded starts may cause gradual damage over time, slugging can break compressor components instantly. Jeff emphasizes that proper superheat levels are essential for compressor health, with most Copeland compressors requiring about 20 degrees of superheat at the compressor suction line. The discussion covers various preventative measures, including pump down systems, properly installed crankcase heaters, and the importance of maintaining appropriate refrigerant charge. Jeff notes that many technicians incorrectly assume crankcase heaters are only needed in cold climates, when they're actually crucial for preventing refrigerant migration in any environment. Key Topics Covered: The difference between flood back (during operation) and flooded starts (when the system restarts) How slugging causes immediate damage to compressors while flooding causes progressive damage The importance of maintaining proper superheat (typically 20 degrees at the compressor) Common causes of flood back: dirty filters, improper airflow, duct problems, and incomplete defrosting How refrigerant is attracted to compressor oil even in vapor form Prevention strategies: pump down systems, proper crankcase heater installation and verification The impact of line sizing and total refrigerant charge on system reliability Why compressors are designed for vapor-in/vapor-out operation, not liquid handling The importance of consulting OEM literature and Copeland resources when troubleshooting Why it's critical to identify and fix the underlying cause before replacing a failed compressor   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 answers a listener-submitted question: what is the best brand of equipment for residential new construction? A lot of people have their own personal preferences when it comes to brands, whether that's with equipment, tools, or even cars. However, when it comes to HVAC equipment, there are a lot of factors that come into play, especially as far as local support is concerned. Are the distributors and territory managers accessible? Reliable? Bryan's personal preferences deal a lot with American (or at least North American) manufacturing and the strength of their local support in the Central Florida market. Some manufacturers have excellent base products but weak product lines, and others have weak base products but great specialized equipment. These judgments come from personal experience, and that's especially true of large manufacturers. Bryan recommends taking a measured, slow approach to products you deal with and then choosing the one that works best for your market and customers. You may find yourself gravitating towards equipment with certain components (like Copeland compressors, for example). You may gravitate towards manufacturers that take feedback about their products and have great local support. The "best brand" really depends on your experiences, values, and business needs.   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

Join Bryan Orr and Furman Haynes from WorkHero for a great discussion about how to keep HVAC local and help more small owners succeed. Live from AHR Expo 2025, we get to hear from one of the founders of an exciting new company that is offering expert office management that small HVAC business owners can afford. Bryan also talks with Furman about a survey that HVAC School and WorkHero recently conducted that received over 1,300 responses and yielded fascinating data about the day-to-day challenges of running HVAC businesses. Key topics covered: The challenges small HVAC business owners face with administrative work How the average small business owner spends 15.4 hours per week on non-revenue generating tasks The impact of private equity consolidation on local HVAC businesses How AI and human expertise can work together to support small contractors The importance of preserving craftsmanship and technical excellence in local HVAC businesses Ways to help small business owners focus on growth while reducing administrative burden Whether you're a small business owner looking to optimize your operations or simply interested in the future of local HVAC, this conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining the soul of our industry while embracing new technologies and solutions. Learn about Helping Small Owners Succeed with WorkHero!   View results of Industry Pulse Survey at https://hvacrschool.com/industrypulse/  Work Hero website: www.workhero.pro  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 livestream MeasureQuick Talks with Bert. This is an impromptu Talk with industry leaders, including Shelby Breger from Conduit and Joe Medosch from MeasureQuick, about how mobile technology is revolutionizing HVAC diagnostics and training. Featuring special guests discussing how modern tools like MeasureQuick and other diagnostic apps are making it easier for technicians of all experience levels to perform advanced diagnostics and build customer trust. Key Topics: How technicians can leverage mobile technology for better diagnostics Using tablets and phones for real-time HVAC measurements Making technical data accessible and meaningful for customers Bridging the gap between experienced techs and new talent The future of HVAC diagnostics and training How technology can help attract new talent to the trades Recorded live at AHR Expo 2025 with special guests from MeasureQuick and other industry leaders. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the trade, learn how modern diagnostic tools can help take your HVAC business to the next level.   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

Join us as we sit down with Nick from Inficon at AHR Expo 2025 to discuss the latest innovations in Leak Detection Tech. We explore the evolution from halide torches to modern infrared sensors, and get an exclusive look at their newest product - the D-TEK Pro. Key topics covered: The transition from heated diode to infrared sensor technology Deep dive into the Stratus leak detector's cloud hunting and pinpoint modes First look at the new D-TEK Pro with 10x airflow and enhanced sensitivity Discussion of forming gas applications in leak detection Tips for proper leak detector usage and maintenance New accessories for wind protection and insulation penetration Whether you're a seasoned tech or new to the trade, this conversation covers essential knowledge about modern leak detection tools and techniques. Learn how these advances are making leak detection more reliable and efficient for HVAC/R professionals.   Find out more at www.inficon.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

Join Bryan Orr as he goes Live from the AHR Expo 2025 at the Orange County Convention Center with Kalos Services team members Dre and Elliot! They share their first impressions of the massive HVAC industry expo, discuss interesting booth displays, and chat about the latest tools and technology they've spotted on the show floor. Get their perspective on what it's like to attend one of the largest HVAC/R trade shows in the world, featuring over 60,000 industry professionals from around the globe. The team discusses everything from impressive industrial equipment displays to innovative tools like Fieldpiece's new all-in-one leak detector. Special guest appearances and impromptu conversations with other industry professionals make this casual livestream a fun peek into the energy and excitement of AHR Expo 2025!   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 engaging episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan sits down with Jesse from NAVAC to dive deep into the evolving landscape of refrigeration technology, focusing primarily on the transition to A2L refrigerants. The conversation offers a refreshingly pragmatic approach to addressing industry concerns about these new, mildly flammable refrigerants, dispelling myths and providing practical insights for HVAC technicians. The discussion begins by addressing the most pressing question for many technicians: Do you need to buy all new tools to work with A2L refrigerants? Jesse from NAVAC provides a nuanced response, emphasizing that while there are currently no regulations mandating new equipment, the company has proactively developed tools that are safety-certified and compatible with the new refrigerant types. They explore the intricacies of safety certifications like UL and CSA, explaining the differences between UL Listed and UL Verified, and highlighting the importance of intrinsically safe equipment, especially for tools like vacuum pumps and recovery machines. NAVAC's approach goes beyond mere product promotion, with Jesse positioning himself as an educator first. The podcast delves into the technical details of A2L refrigerants, challenging common misconceptions and providing context about their flammability. Bryan and Jesse draw parallels with previous refrigerant transitions, noting how technicians were initially skeptical about R-410A but eventually adapted. They emphasize the importance of best practices, proper training, and understanding the actual risks associated with these new refrigerants, rather than succumbing to fear-based narratives. The episode also showcases NAVAC's latest technological innovations, including smart probes, a Bluetooth scale, a smart valve for charging and recovery, and an advanced vacuum pump with a one-touch oil testing feature. These tools represent the company's commitment to improving technician efficiency and safety, with features that address real-world challenges faced by HVAC professionals. Key Topics Covered: A2L Refrigerants Myths and misconceptions about flammability Comparison with previous refrigerant transitions Safety considerations and best practices Safety Certifications Differences between UL Listed and UL Verified Importance of intrinsically safe equipment CSA and ETL certifications NAVAC's New Tools Smart probes with Bluetooth connectivity Advanced vacuum pump with automatic oil testing Flex manifold with digital accuracy and analog feel Battery-operated pumps with improved run times Industry Trends Preparation for A2L and future refrigerant transitions Regulatory changes and efficiency standards Importance of technician education and adaptation Additional Insights: No current regulations require new tools for A2L refrigerants Proper training and best practices are crucial Technicians should focus on understanding new technologies Safety is about awareness and proper procedures, not fear   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

Roman Baugh and Donald Falese from VRF Tech Talk podcast takeover the HVAC School booth at AHR EXPO 2025. Join them as they talk about the new VRF products being unveiled, water cooled VRF up's and down's and why VRF is such a difficult trade work in. You will not want to miss this one! Highlights include: Daikin's innovative modular air handler for residential applications Hisense's groundbreaking single-phase VRF system with integrated hot water heating New NFC technology for easier system diagnostics and commissioning Updates on vapor injection technology and inverter developments The emergence of air source heat pump chillers Latest innovations from manufacturers like Gree, TCL, Cooper Hunter and more Whether you're a seasoned VRF technician or just getting started with inverter technology, this discussion covers everything from basic principles to cutting-edge developments in the industry. Roman and Donald break down complex technologies into understandable concepts while sharing their firsthand experience with the latest products at the expo. Don't miss this opportunity to stay up-to-date with the future of HVAC technology!   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