Building HVAC Science

“Incidents drive policy. Policy drives law.” – Marc A. Adams “You don't want to do the Scooby-Doo dance if you smell gas—evacuate and call 911.” – Marc A. Adams “An electronic nose is a better solution than relying on your own.” – Bill Spohn In this compelling episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser speak with Marc A. Adams, Vice President of New Cosmos USA, about natural gas safety and the innovative gas detection technologies behind the DeNova Detect brand. The conversation begins with Marc's fascinating career journey from telecom to public safety, highlighting how his expertise in machine-to-machine and IoT communications now supports life-saving initiatives in the utility space. Marc shares sobering statistics on gas-related incidents and explains the critical need for early-warning natural gas alarms in homes, businesses, and public spaces. The discussion covers the evolution of gas detection—from basic beeping detectors to smart, battery-powered devices that communicate over wireless networks to utilities and mobile apps. The trio also explores real-world tragedies, regulatory landscapes, and how education and advocacy can bridge the awareness gap around gas safety. The episode wraps with a call to action: gas is an essential and generally safe energy source, but detection matters. Marc encourages listeners to understand the risks, install alarms, and engage with resources like DeNovaDetect.com and PreventNaturalGasDisasters.com to stay informed and protected. DeNova Detect: https://denovadetect.com/ Mark’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcaadams/ What to look for in a natural gas alarm: https://denovadetect.com/blogs/posts/ul-1484-standard-gas-alarm?srsltid=AfmBOorlCy9ethVYqhgle7MMGNjkxeZF77GG-pz-WFepEwBE8iJ1FoRY www.preventnaturalgasdisasters.com UL 1484 Standard (Natural Gas Alarm): https://explorestandards.ul.org/gas-detectors.html NFPA715 (Installation of a Fuel Gas Alarm): https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-715-standard-development/715 UL234 standard (CO Alarm): https://www.shopulstandards.com/ProductDetail.aspx?UniqueKey=46614 NFPA 72: https://edufire.ir/storage/Library/elam/NFPA%2072-2019.pdf     This episode was recorded in July 2025.  

“IAQ is no longer just a maintenance issue—it’s a strategic lever for improving patient outcomes and financial performance in healthcare.” “Saving a single dollar in energy for a hospital is like generating twenty dollars in patient revenue.” “The big message: it’s not as big a lift as it used to be. Smart IAQ solutions are now turnkey and data-driven.” In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Bill Spohn is joined by Renée Jacobs, a seasoned expert in healthcare construction and building automation. Renée shares her career journey from hands-on construction to leading the healthcare vertical at Distech Controls. Her passion for improving patient outcomes through smarter building systems shines as she explains how indoor air quality (IAQ) has become a pivotal factor in modern healthcare environments. Renée draws a compelling analogy between early skepticism of handwashing and today’s evolving recognition of IAQ’s role in patient health. She highlights how advanced sensors and smart building automation are transforming reactive facility management into a proactive, data-driven practice. One standout example she discusses is a hospital system that drastically improved both IAQ and energy management through Distech’s Atrius platform, earning them a Better Buildings Award from the Department of Energy. The conversation also dives into key industry standards like ASHRAE 170, the hidden costs of inaction, and the importance of leveraging AI and IoT in HVAC systems to enhance both care and cost-efficiency. Renée wraps up by emphasizing that implementing smart IAQ solutions is no longer a daunting task—it’s a strategic investment that is more accessible and turnkey than ever before. Renee’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-r-jacobs/ Distech website: https://www.distech-controls.com/ ASHRAE Standard 170: https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/standards-and-guidelines/standards-addenda/ansi-ashrae-ashe-standard-170-2017-ventilation-of-health-care-facilities Episode 48: With Stephanie Taylor https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep48-buildings-health-an-interview-with-dr-stephanie-taylor/ This episode was recorded in July 2025.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with two passionate leaders from the GRIT Foundation—Executive Director Leilani Orr and Head of Training Ty Branaman. Together, they unpack the origin story, purpose, and transformative impact of GRIT Camps, which introduce youth to the skilled trades in immersive, hands-on ways. The conversation explores how GRIT—which stands for Growth and Resilience in the Trades—isn't just a clever acronym but a mindset. Through personal stories, Leilani and Ty reflect on the deeper "why" behind the camps: fostering curiosity, building confidence, and instilling pride in practical skills that often go unrecognized. They discuss how using tools like the Socratic method not only helps students learn but transforms mentors as well—often reigniting their passion for the trades. You’ll hear about real-life transformations: timid students who become torch-wielding creators, mentors discovering new ways to engage, and parents witnessing their children light up with newfound purpose. As a pending nonprofit, the GRIT Foundation is fueled by heart, vision, and a small but mighty network of supporters—with hopes of expanding nationwide through thoughtful partnerships. “If I can do this, anybody can do this. I don’t want to be the guy—I want to be the guy helping other people become the guy.” – Ty Branaman “We’re not recruiting kids into the trades—we’re fostering curiosity and confidence in whoever they want to become.” – Leilani Orr “What you’re doing is important because it touches your heart—or brings a tear to your eye.” – Bill Spohn The Grit Foundation: https://www.thegritfoundation.com/ Leilani’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leilani-orr-5a0948343/ Ty’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ty-branaman-cmhe-07604a33/ Bryan Orr’s book, Unconfomed: An Unbound and Unbridled Path to Unstuck Growth: https://a.co/d/9zMmSmQ     This episode was recorded in July 2025.  

In this wide-ranging episode, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome longtime HVAC pro and educator Adam Mufich to the podcast. Adam shares his unique path through the industry—from growing up in a third-generation HVAC family and starting his own company, to becoming a trainer at the National Comfort Institute (NCI). The trio dives into how social media unexpectedly played a pivotal role in Adam’s professional growth, helping him connect with future collaborators through YouTube live streams and online forums. They explore Adam’s evolution into technical writing and training, his thoughts on public speaking, and what it’s like to work alongside industry veterans like David Richardson and Jim Davis. A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to NCI’s new initiatives, including the upcoming High-Performance Heat Pump Retrofit class and the ComfortMax workflow integration with MeasureQuick, which aims to automate performance diagnostics for greater accuracy and efficiency. They also discuss: Why real-world hands-on training matters The importance of airflow and static pressure measurement The philosophy behind “If you’re not measuring, you’re just guessing” How modern tools like MeasureQuick elevate technician performance Upcoming NCI Summit (Sept. 9–12 in Texas) and member benefits Whether you’re a seasoned tech, a contractor, or someone just entering the trade, this episode underscores the importance of staying curious, embracing new technology, and building community within the HVAC industry. “If you’re not measuring, you’re just guessing.” – NCI Philosophy “Better precision tools won’t replace you—they’ll help you up your game.” – Adam Mufich “I’ll never know everything about HVAC. That’s why I keep learning every day.” – Adam Mufich   Adam’sLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mufich-5225055a/ NCI website: www.NCIhvac.com or https://www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com/pro/ The NCI Store on TruTechTools: https://trutechtools.com/nci-store.html Find an NCI contractor: https://www.myhomecomfort.org/find-a-contractor/ NCI Consumer site: https://www.myhomecomfort.org/ NCI Summit Link: https://www.gotosummit.com/ NCI Membership details: https://www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com/membership/ Adams’s first episode with us, EP112: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep112-being-humble-persistent-and-curious-in-the-trades-with-adam-mufich-march-2023/     This episode was recorded in June 2025.  

In this insightful episode, Bill and Eric are joined by Abhi Katamneni from Efficiency Canada and Nate Adams, also known as the House Whisperer, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of home performance, policy, and how HVAC contractors can play a central role in the electrification and decarbonization of housing. Abhi shares lessons from his ride-alongs with contractors across North America, emphasizing how real-world experience shapes policy that actually works. Nate dives into his shift toward consumer education and the systemic problems he’s observed in program design and incentives. Together, they unpack how well-meaning policies can backfire when they disrupt the natural rhythm of contracting businesses—highlighting the urgent need for smarter, more contractor-centric approaches. They discuss “boundary spanners,” the unintended consequences of top-down mandates, and why the HVAC service truck is ground zero for climate solutions. Both guests call for immersion, experimentation, and communities of practice to move from boutique success stories to scalable change. Some quotes from the Episode: “The brain can’t absorb what your butt can’t endure.” – Abhi “If you’re not building something shovel-ready for contractors, what are you even doing?” – Abhi “A heat pump isn’t just green—it’s better. More comfort, less noise, fewer regrets.” – Nate Nate’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natethehousewhisperer/ Abhi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akantamn/ Boundary Spanners podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1OunercMNOjZ3poROcI5Z4 Nate’s website where  you get free downloads or the book: https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/ ACEEE: https://www.aceee.org/ Efficiency Canada: https://www.efficiencycanada.org/   This episode was recorded in June 2025.  

In this engaging and insightful episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Matt Schwoegler, founder of Blaze Infrared and longtime thermography educator. Matt shares his unexpected journey into the world of infrared—from a marketing career in the ski industry to teaching thousands about heat transfer and thermal imaging. With deep humility and clarity, he walks us through critical lessons from his 20+ year career, including some humorous—and humbling—stories from the field. Matt discusses how interpreting thermal images isn't as straightforward as it seems. From false positives caused by built-in heaters to paint that doesn’t behave as expected, we hear real-world examples that underscore the importance of formal training and mentorship in thermography. He emphasizes that while technology has become more affordable, the need for skill and knowledge has only grown. The conversation closes with a compelling call to approach thermography with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning. Matt pays tribute to the mentors who shaped his path and encourages listeners to seek guidance, invest in training, and pay it forward. Matt’s quotes from the episode: “The price of the camera has nothing to do with your ability to use it well.”  “Humility is one of the most important qualities of a great trainer.”  “Infrared is like a hammer—easy to pick up, but only a skilled builder knows what to do with it.”   Here are a few standards Matt references: ASTM C1060- Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings (https://www.astm.org/c1060-11ar15.html) states your need a 10 C / 18 F delta T to check for missing or poorly performing insulation solar loading is referenced, that's where the 3 hr wait for wood frame buildings and up to 8 hrs for masonry structures comes from - That's how long the surface needs to be devoid of direct sunshine before inspecting with IR.   ASTM E1186 - Standard Practices for Air Leakage Site Detection in Building Envelopes and Air Barrier Systems (https://www.astm.org/e1186-22.html) NOTE IR Mentioned in 1186 as one of the pressure test methods.  states 5 C / 9 F delta T to see air leakage sites with IR   ASTM E779 Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization (https://www.astm.org/e0779-19.html)   Blaze Infrared: https://blazeinfrared.com/ Infrared Training Center (ITC): https://www.infraredtraining.com/ Matt’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-schwoegler/   1 hour Video on Thermography basics from The TruTech Tools Library: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qgCZCY6JCs     This episode was recorded in June 2025.  

In this in-depth episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Phil Farese, CEO of Mojave HVAC, to explore the cutting edge of desiccant dehumidification technology. Phil, whose career began in physics at Cornell and research at Princeton before moving into consulting at McKinsey and leadership roles at NREL, Enphase, and now Mojave, brings a rare mix of scientific rigor and market savvy to the HVAC space.   The conversation traces the evolution of liquid desiccant systems and Mojave’s unique approach that combines vapor compression and liquid desiccant in a single DOAS (Dedicated Outdoor Air System) unit. The result? Enhanced dehumidification, reduced energy use, and precision control of sensible and latent loads—at market-competitive prices. Phil outlines how Mojave’s patented media bed and regeneration systems avoid many of the pitfalls that plagued earlier desiccant systems, while also maintaining ease of installation, low maintenance, and strong reliability.   Listeners also hear about Mojave’s service philosophy, tech training programs, and broad rep network, plus a discussion of ideal use cases, efficiency standards like ISMRE (Integrated Seasonal Moisture Removal Efficiency), and how the system outperforms traditional DOAS units. Whether you’re an engineer, contractor, or building owner looking to optimize HVAC performance while cutting energy bills, this episode delivers clear, science-backed insight into where dehumidification is headed.   Quotes from the episode: “We’re not undoing cooling with reheat—we’re using that energy to do something useful: regenerate the desiccant.”   “Liquid desiccants are like the honey of HVAC—safe, natural, and surprisingly powerful.”   “It looks like an air conditioner. That’s what contractors tell us—and that’s the point.”     Phil’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-farese-49a81b1/   Mojave Energy Systems: https://mojavehvac.com/   Tony Mormino, our friend at HVAC-TV did a recent interview with Mojave: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hvac-tv/episodes/Liquid-Desiccant-Dehumidification-Explained-e33elio/a-abvfahu   Eutectic system defined: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eutectic_system   AHRI Standard 920,Performance Rating of Direct Expansion-dedicated Outdoor Air System Units:  https://www.ahrinet.org/search-standards/ahri-920-i-p-and-921-si-performance-rating-direct-expansion-dedicated-outdoor-air-system-units   Papers and reports by Phil: Tool to Prioritize Energy Efficiency Investments (NREL 2012):  https://docs.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/54799.pdf   How to build a low-energy future (2012): https://www.nature.com/articles/488275a ASHRAE paper on Liquid Desiccants: https://mojavehvac.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Liquid-Desiccant-Field-Campaign-Final-2.pdf   McKinsey paper:Unlocking Energy Efficiency in the US Economy (2009):  https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/dotcom/client_service/Sustainability/PDFs/US_energy_efficiency_full_report.pdf     This episode was recorded in June 2025.  

In this high-energy episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Tersh Blissett—entrepreneur, podcaster, and automation enthusiast—for a deep dive into how AI and automation are transforming service businesses. Tersh, known for running multiple HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies, shares his journey from podcasting beginnings to becoming a Zapier expert and automation evangelist. He explains how AI voice tools, custom GPTs, and platforms like Notebook LM and PhoneTap are helping streamline operations, improve call conversions, and create more consistent customer experiences. The conversation explores both the promise and the pitfalls of AI, from building SOPs and staff training bots to setting up Slack-integrated employee handbooks. Tersh doesn’t shy away from the challenges—like automating broken processes or managing security risks—but encourages listeners not to ignore these powerful tools. He wraps up by offering guidance and community resources for those looking to start their AI journey, reinforcing the message: don't automate for automation’s sake—do it to solve real problems. Quotes from today’s episode: “If you do something more than three times a week, optimize it, automate it, or delegate it.” “Don’t automate just to automate—solve a problem first.” “Authentic human tone is going to win, even if AI is writing it.”   Tersh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Trade Automation Pros: https://tradeautomationpros.com/ Tersh’s email: tersh@tradeautomationpros.com/ Tersh’s Podcast: https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/ Other links mentioned in today’s episode: https://scribehow.com/ Capture computer based learning/processes Skool.com (look for the Automation Foundation) www.plaud.ai/products/plaud-notepin  (always recording pendant) https://notebooklm.google/ Understand anything https://chat.chatbotapp.ai/claude Claude by Anthropic This episode was recorded in June 2025.  

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.