HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

In this informative podcast episode, Bryan from HVAC School is joined by Louise Keller, the National Training Manager for UEI Test Instruments, to discuss the critical importance of carbon monoxide safety and proper combustion analysis. The conversation begins with lighthearted banter about the previous night's Tactical Awards ceremony before diving into the serious topic of CO dangers and detection. Louise shares valuable insights about the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure, particularly at lower levels that might not trigger standard home CO alarms. She explains that CO poisoning can mimic many other conditions, including early-onset Alzheimer's, traumatic brain injury, and mobility issues. Bryan adds historical context by recounting how many Victorian-era "ghost stories" and fainting episodes coincided with the introduction of gas lighting in homes, suggesting these phenomena were likely CO poisoning symptoms. He also shares the little-known story of Walt Disney's parents, who tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a house that Disney built for them. The discussion shifts to practical applications, with Louise explaining the proper use of combustion analyzers and the importance of regular recertification. They emphasize that visual inspection alone is not sufficient for safety, and proper testing is essential for both client safety and equipment efficiency. The conversation concludes with information about UEI's ServicePlus Guaranteed program, which offers extended warranty coverage, same-day recertification turnaround, transparent pricing, and convenient shipping for analyzers. Key Topics Covered: The dangers of carbon monoxide as an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas How low-level CO exposure can cause serious health issues that mimic other conditions The limitations of standard home CO alarms, which typically won't trigger until reaching 70 PPM for 1-4 hours Proper combustion analyzer startup procedures (starting outside in fresh air) The importance of checking all combustion appliances in a home (furnaces, water heaters, ovens, etc.) Best practices for comprehensive testing, including "appliance sweep tests" Historical context of CO poisoning, including connections to Victorian ghost stories UEI's ServicePlus Guaranteed program for analyzer recertification and warranty extension The importance of regular recertification to ensure accurate readings and maintain warranty coverage Tips for helping clients schedule regular maintenance and safety checks   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, Bryan sits down with James and Jeff from Copeland to discuss the evolution and capabilities of Copeland's mobile applications, particularly focusing on the Copeland Mobile app and the new Scout feature. James, who has been with Copeland for 28 years, and Jeff, who works as a trainer, share their extensive knowledge about how these tools can benefit HVAC technicians in the field. The conversation begins with a historical perspective on Copeland's service bulletins, which have been a valuable resource for technicians since the 1980s. The guests explain how these bulletins have evolved from being difficult to access to becoming readily available through the Copeland Mobile app. They discuss how the app has become an essential tool for technicians, allowing them to access critical information about compressors, including operating envelopes, current draw specifications, and troubleshooting guides. The discussion then moves to the exciting new features in the Copeland Mobile app, including the integration of Fault Finder and the introduction of Scout, an AI-powered search tool that draws exclusively from Copeland's database. Scout not only provides answers to technical questions but also points users to relevant resources and documentation. The guests emphasize how these tools can help reduce unnecessary compressor replacements, noting that 30-40% of returned compressors have nothing wrong with them. Key Topics Covered: Evolution of Copeland service bulletins from paper to digital format Features of the Copeland Mobile app, including: Operating envelope visualization Current draw specifications Compressor cross-reference tools Warranty status checking Mechanical specifications and oil charge information Wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides Introduction of Scout AI-powered search feature Integration of Fault Finder into the main app Using the app for training technicians Importance of proper compressor diagnostics Accessing technical documentation and AE (Application Engineering) bulletins New camera feature for scanning compressor data tags Desktop version functionality for service managers White Rogers mobile applications Warranty tracking and parts availability features   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, Bryan is joined by guests Jacob and JD to discuss quality control (QC), punch out procedures, and best practices in HVAC installation and service. The conversation delves deep into the various aspects of maintaining high standards in workmanship, from aesthetic considerations to technical performance metrics that affect system longevity. The discussion begins with an exploration of workmanship quality and how to instill pride in work among team members. The guests share insights about the importance of company culture in maintaining high standards, emphasizing that quality control isn't just about catching mistakes but about fostering an environment where everyone takes ownership of their work. They discuss how photo documentation can be a powerful tool for quality control, allowing team members to review work remotely and catch issues that might be missed in the field. The conversation then shifts to the more technical aspects of quality control, particularly focusing on procedures that affect system longevity but might not be immediately visible to clients. This includes proper brazing techniques, pulling adequate vacuums, and proper system charging. The guests emphasize the importance of having a culture where team members hold each other accountable for following proper procedures, even when cutting corners might be tempting. The episode concludes with a detailed discussion about working with inspectors and handling code compliance, offering practical advice for maintaining good relationships with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) while ensuring work meets all necessary standards. Key Topics Covered: Importance of workmanship appearance and aesthetic quality Role of company culture in maintaining high standards Using photo documentation for quality control Technical procedures that affect system longevity Methods for ensuring proper installation procedures are followed Dealing with inspectors and code compliance Characteristics of good punch-out personnel Balance between production speed and quality Importance of praise and constructive criticism in quality control Strategies for reducing punch list items Building relationships with inspectors Handling code interpretation disagreements Value of being a trades generalist for punch work Impact of workmanship on inspector relationships   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 covers some common mistakes when measuring static pressure. Static pressure is balloon pressure, not CFM or velocity pressure, but it can be an airflow indicator. The best way to start learning about static pressure is to start measuring total external static pressure. Gas furnaces and heat pumps are different; static pressure is rated at the furnace in the former (not the cased coil, which is additional), and the static pressure includes the coil in a heat pump. The highest static pressure will always be at the blower, but restrictions on either side of the blower will raise static pressure on both sides of the blower.  Dirty components can drop the total external static pressure, which is a common point of confusion that can lead to misdiagnosis. You'll want to determine static pressure at the blower and across components. If you want to determine if a cased evaporator coil is clogged, you can measure the static pressure drop across the coil (by measuring below and above the coil) and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications. Dirty blower wheels can also cause problems, as they don't move much air in the first place. Lower static pressure at the blower is the best for amp draw and airflow, and our system designs and accessories can support low static pressure. Dialing in airflow, putting your probes in the right positions when you measure static pressure, proper register and grille selection, and minimally restrictive filters all go a long way.   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 insightful discussion at AHR 2025 in Orlando, Bryan connects with Nikki Krueger from Santa Fe dehumidifiers, exploring the evolution and importance of whole-house dehumidification in modern HVAC systems. Nikki, who has spent 20 years in the indoor air quality industry, shares her journey from a public relations background to becoming deeply involved in the technical and engineering aspects of dehumidification technology. She highlights the groundbreaking work of Ken Gehring, who invented whole-house ventilating dehumidifiers in the mid-1990s and continues to be actively involved in the industry at 84 years old. The conversation delves into the changing landscape of home construction and its impact on dehumidification needs. As houses become tighter due to building codes and energy efficiency requirements, the relationship between air conditioning and dehumidification has become more complex. They discuss how modern, high-efficiency AC systems often struggle with effective dehumidification due to their focus on temperature control and energy efficiency. This challenge is particularly evident in cases where AC units have higher sensible heat ratios, meaning they're better at changing temperature than removing moisture. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the technical aspects of sizing and installing dehumidifiers correctly. Nikki emphasizes the importance of understanding true dehumidifier capacity under different conditions, noting that a unit's performance varies significantly based on temperature and humidity levels. The conversation also covers the evolution of ventilation requirements in modern homes and Santa Fe's response with new products featuring larger fans and eight-inch ventilation ducts to better match dehumidification capacity with ventilation needs. Key Topics Covered: The history and evolution of whole-house dehumidification The relationship between modern AC systems and dehumidification challenges The importance of proper sizing and installation of dehumidifiers How building codes and tighter construction affect moisture control needs The role of ventilation in modern dehumidification systems The impact of temperature on dehumidifier performance ratings Common installation mistakes and best practices The significance of dew point versus relative humidity The challenges of maintaining specific relative humidity levels in homes New developments in dehumidifier technology, including larger ventilation ducts The importance of proper data and performance metrics in system design Resources for contractors and technicians learning about dehumidification   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 special episode from the 2025 AHR Expo, Bryan brings us two fascinating conversations with industry leaders who are shaping the future of HVAC technology and tools. The episode kicks off with Tony Gonzalez from Fieldpiece celebrating their 35th anniversary. Tony shares his remarkable journey from packaging meters in the warehouse to his current leadership role, providing unique insights into the company's evolution. The discussion explores Fieldpiece's pioneering role in developing HVAC-specific testing equipment, particularly highlighting their groundbreaking HS26 meter that filled a crucial gap in the industry when no other company was creating specialized meters for HVAC technicians. The conversation with Tony delves deep into the technical aspects of modern HVAC work, particularly focusing on combustion analysis and its three fundamental pillars: safety, efficiency, and consistency. Tony explains how Fieldpiece's JobLink system has revolutionized the way technicians document their work and communicate with customers through comprehensive digital reporting. The discussion also covers the evolution of refrigerants and POE oils, emphasizing how practices that weren't considered critical in the past have become essential with modern systems and materials. In the second segment, Bryan sits down with Mike and Ashley from Refrigeration Technologies' Viper division, where they share the compelling origin story of their company. Mike recounts how his father, John Pastorello, a chemist who found himself taking an AC technician job in the 1980s, leveraged his chemistry background to develop superior products, starting with their flagship product, Big Blu. The conversation highlights Refrigeration Technologies' impressive growth, including their recent expansion to a campus-like facility with an additional 30,000 square feet and their achievement of making the Inc. 5000 list for three consecutive years. Ashley, their Director of Education and Brand Management, discusses their innovative approach to industry engagement, including their first-ever "Viper Bowl" competition and their commitment to safety in product development. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Fieldpiece's 35-year journey and the evolution of HVAC-specific testing equipment Modern combustion analysis fundamentals and the importance of proper testing The JobLink system and its impact on documentation and customer communication Evolution of refrigerants, POE oils, and critical installation practices Refrigeration Technologies' origin story and growth from a family business to an industry leader Development and innovation of essential HVAC chemicals and tools under the Viper brand The importance of safety in product formulation and application Global expansion and market reach in the HVAC industry Impact of modern technology on HVAC diagnostics and documentation Training approaches and industry education initiatives Company cultures focused on innovation and problem-solving The role of family businesses in advancing 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

In this episode, Bryan speaks with Manly, an HVAC professional from Manitoba, Canada, about his journey from working in his family's plumbing business to running his own HVAC company. Manly shares his experiences working in extreme cold weather conditions, where temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F), and discusses the unique challenges and emergency response strategies required in such a heating-dominated market. The conversation delves deep into the ethical aspects of running an HVAC business, with both Bryan and Manly sharing their Christian perspectives on business ethics, customer service, and professional integrity. They discuss the importance of honest communication with customers, admitting mistakes, and making decisions based on customers' needs rather than purely financial motivations. Manly emphasizes how his faith influences his business practices and decision-making, particularly when advising customers about repairs versus replacements. The discussion also explores the importance of continuous learning and professional development in the HVAC industry. Manly describes his experience returning to school in his forties to complete his air conditioning mechanic certification, highlighting how the industry requires constant adaptation and learning. Both professionals stress the value of building community within the trade and the importance of sharing knowledge to help others avoid making the same mistakes they've encountered. Key Topics Covered: Working in extreme cold weather conditions (-30°C/-22°F) Emergency heating solutions using construction heaters The transition from plumbing to HVAC Challenges of equipment sizing and customer education Business ethics and Christian principles in HVAC Importance of admitting mistakes and maintaining integrity Continuous learning and professional development Building community in the HVAC industry Balancing profit motives with customer needs Manitoba's two-tier licensing system for HVAC technicians Parts availability challenges and creative solutions Role of humility in professional growth Value of proper education and training in HVAC   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 EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and how to calculate EER in the field. EER and SEER are ratings that we often see on equipment (as are SEER2 and EER2) based on a ratio of an output to an input. Whereas coefficient of performance (COP) is a direct ratio of watts out to watts in, EER and SEER account for BTUs and watts. EER and SEER indicate the cooling capacity (in BTUs) we get from the watts we put in. The ratio changes based on field conditions, and EER2 and SEER2 have more realistic test conditions than EER and SEER (the static pressure for systems rated below 65,000 BTUs per hour was 0.1"wc for EER and SEER, and it is now 0.5"wc for EER2 and SEER2, which is much closer to average field conditions). To determine EER, you have to figure out BTU production and stack it against your wattage. You'll need to know your delta enthalpy (delta H), multiply it by the CFM, and then multiply the product of those by 4.5 to get your BTU output. A calculator on apps like measureQuick can help you find out your delta H, but you'll need a proper wet-bulb temperature before you can do that. You can determine CFM with a TrueFlow grid or manufacturer's blower charts. Finding watts can be a challenge with ECMs and inverter-driven systems; it's not as simple as volts x amps, and you will need a meter that can measure power factor and take readings from the condenser fan, compressor, and blower motor. That wattage becomes the number you divide into BTUs to get the EER. SEER is averaged over a season, HSPF is for heating instead of cooling, and you can convert the BTUs to watts (by multiplying by 3.41) and determine the ratio of watts out to watts in.   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 informative episode, Josh Souders from Copeland joins Bryan to dive deep into heat pump technology, discussing everything from basic operations to advanced features in cold climate applications. The conversation begins with a fundamental explanation of how heat pumps work, describing them as essentially air conditioners with a reversing valve that allows them to provide both heating and cooling. Josh explains the thermodynamic principles that enable heat pumps to extract heat from cold outdoor air and transfer it indoors, achieving coefficients of performance (COP) ranging from 1.5 to 3, making them significantly more efficient than traditional electric resistance heating. The discussion moves into the broader context of electrification and decarbonization, explaining how heat pumps fit into these environmental initiatives. Josh details how modern cold climate heat pumps have evolved significantly from earlier generations, particularly through the Department of Energy's Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge program. This program pushed manufacturers to develop systems capable of maintaining full heating capacity at very low temperatures, addressing historical concerns about heat pump performance in cold regions. Variable speed technology emerges as a key topic, with Josh explaining how modern inverter-driven compressors can operate across a wide range of speeds - from 900 to 7,000 RPM in their newest A2L products. This capability allows systems to maintain heating capacity in cold weather by increasing compressor speed when needed. The conversation also covers practical considerations for installation and troubleshooting, including the importance of proper defrost cycles, installation location, and the use of riser kits in snowy regions. Key Topics Covered: Basic heat pump operation and refrigeration cycle Electrification and decarbonization initiatives Cold climate heat pump capabilities and DOE challenge program Variable speed compressor technology Different types of heat pumps (air source, ground source, water source) Defrost cycles and their importance Installation considerations for cold climates Vapor injection technology and its benefits Available incentives and rebates for heat pump installation Troubleshooting tips for heat pump systems Low-GWP refrigerant considerations Resource links for contractors and homeowners Modern heat pump efficiency and performance improvements Resources mentioned: DSIRE USA website for state incentives (dsireusa.org) DOE rebate portal (energy.gov/save/rebates) Copeland heat pump information (hvacrschool.com/copeland-heat-pumps) Copeland Mobile app and White Rogers family of apps Copeland Training Hub for education resources   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 podcast episode, Bryan, Jacob, and JD provide an in-depth look at a significant HVAC project that tested their team's ability to adapt, learn, and improve. The discussion centers on a large-scale apartment building project that presented numerous challenges in project management, team dynamics, and installation processes. What began as a chaotic and inefficient workflow ultimately transformed into a more streamlined and collaborative effort through careful analysis and strategic adjustments. The team candidly discusses their initial struggles with project management, particularly around materials handling, piecework compensation, and team coordination. They highlight the importance of moving from an individual-focused approach to an assembly-line mentality, which dramatically improved both productivity and team morale. The podcast reveals the critical nature of communication, ownership, and consistent processes in managing large-scale construction projects. A key theme throughout the discussion is the evolution of team culture and interpersonal dynamics. The participants emphasize that effective teamwork isn't about being friends, but about mutual respect, individual accountability, and collective goal achievement. They stress the importance of merit-based performance and creating a work environment where team members are motivated by productivity and quality rather than personal relationships or financial incentives. Key Topics Covered: Project scope: New ground-up apartment building HVAC installation Challenges with initial project management approaches Transition to assembly-line production methods Materials handling and staging strategies Piecework compensation challenges and improvements Team dynamics and communication Importance of consistent processes Breaking down installation into specialized tasks Balancing speed and quality of work Learning from project experiences for future improvements   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