Eric and I agree: Tersh Blissett would win the best-dressed in HVAC award if there was one. But beyond his dashing apparel, Tersh is a person of many talents. As a visionary creator of the Service Business Mastery podcast (now with co-host Josh Crouch), he is a font of wisdom and inspiration that has been flowing since 2017 when he became part of Bryan Orr’s Blue Collar Roots Network with me (and this podcast) and others. While the Blue Collar Roots Network is now defunct, the spirit still lives on. Tersh has a great entrepreneurial mind, building multiple profitable home service businesses that thrive in the small-town market of Savannah, GA. He is a constant learner, in both the technical and businesses aspects of his work, but more than that he is a great communicator of what he learns as he keeps a crazy schedule between his business, his podcast, his community work and most importantly his family.   He truly puts people over profits and teaches everyone from his office staff to his technicians to do the same. Tersh excels in bringing the very best technology to everything he does in the HVAC  Tersh’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/servicebusinessmasterypodcast   This episode was recorded in October 2023  

Listen in as Eric and I interview two of the leaders of Malco products and learn how they have become the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of “tools of the trade” for HVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning), exterior remodeling, and more. Joining us is Rich Benninghoff, President & CEO, along with Rebecca Talbot, Malco’s VP of Marketing. They share with us the rich history and promising future of a successful and well-run manufacturer. In fact, Rich helped our team at TruTech better understand the principles and benefits of EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System which he uses at Malco- you learn more about EOS in Episode 137 of this podcast. Post recording note: In the trade show part of our discussion, we mention Metalcon as upcoming, but it has already taken place in Oct 2023. Rich and Rebecca share closing thoughts that illustrate how they keep an eye on the past, remembering how they got here, along with an eye on the future, for growth.  Rich’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-benninghoff Rebecca’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccajtalbot/ Product Idea submission: https://www.malcoproducts.com/ideas/ Distributor resources: https://www.malcoproducts.com/distributors/ Educator programs: https://www.malcoproducts.com/educators-resources/ Catalogs: https://www.malcoproducts.com/catalogs/ Video Gallery: https://www.malcoproducts.com/videos/ Head of the Class program for HVAC and Building Construction: https://www.malcoproducts.com/educators-resources/ For information on the annual Trade Pro of the Year and Counterperson of the Year programs, be sure to sign up for the Malco Newsletter for the latest news. https://www.malcoproducts.com/mailing-list/   Want to connect in person, Malco will be at booth S7744 in Chicago, IL for the AHR trade show. You can always stay in touch with Malco on their socials, be sure to follow them on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok. This episode was recorded in October 2023  

Another post on LinkedIn is what got this conversation/episode started. https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7104814299386171392/ Perhaps it was the architectural rendering of a piece of cake that caught my eye – well done Steven! (FYI as of this writing this post has 564 reactions, 59 comments and 45 reposts- that’s influence!) Meet Steven Biersteker, architect by day and content creator by night. Here is his LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-biersteker/ We explore a lot of topics in this episode including why Steven entered this field and how he got to where he is today. (My favorite part of every episode.) Other notions we discuss: Getting to low operational carbon is simple ... in theory. We are running highly efficient buildings on high carbon fuels. Citizens need to demand better and use energy smarter. Designing highly efficient buildings is critical, but so is low-carbon electricity and smart users. We learned that he’s writing a book (ABCs of Carbon + Architecture) because he sees a big problem: There is a huge gap between the know-it-alls and the know-it-nots. His book will be simple to read, digestible, and most importantly brief (see the book outline below). And also see below for 10 important questions about low carbon design for every architect and builder to ask themselves/their client. It’s on all of us to work together, you can make a difference. Be willing to ask questions. This episode was recorded in October 2023. Here is a sneak peak of the key topics in his book: CARBON LINGO - The Key terms you need to know GLOBAL WARMING 101 - The basics, nothing more SCOPING OUT CARBON - Who's scope are carbon emissions? MEASURING CARBON - How we measure this stuff WHOLE LIFE CARBON - Embodied & Operational Carbon LIFE-CYCLE STAGES - EN15978 - A1 - C EMBODIED CARBON - What's accounted for? MATERIALS - Emissions & carbon sequestering ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATIONS - The intro to Epd's OPERATIONAL CARBON - The basics of emissions ENERGY USE - How does energy impact GHG REFRIGERANTS - What's the issue with refrigerants? CARBON COMPARISON - So what is a ton of carbon anyway? BONUS: 10 simple questions to achieve a low-carbon design.  1. Does this building need to be built?  No - Great, you just saved the planet. Yes - Move on to question 2.    2. Does this building need to be built this big?  No - Build what you need and nothing more.  Yes - Move to question 3.    3. Is there an existing building we could use instead?  No - Let's try and build the best new building we can.  Yes - Renovated buildings reduce embodied carbon by up to 70%    4. Can we use a biogenic material as our structure?  No - Focus on less material and lower impact materials.  Yes - Stick frame and mass timber are great structural options    5. Can the building be designed to come apart?  No - Concrete is the worst material for disassembly.  Yes - Steel and Mass Timber should be bolted for disassembly    6. Can we fully electrify the heating & cooling systems?  No - Maximize energy efficiency through passive system design  Yes - Heat pumps will reduce your energy use by 3x's    7. Can we reduce our mechanical system size?  No - Large mechanical systems are expensive to operate long-term  Yes - Use south-facing glazing and passive ventilation    8. Can we specify biogenic insulation and cladding materials  No - Find the lowest impact insulation materials. Try EPS over XPS  Yes - Cellulose, hemp, denim, and wool are great insulators    9. Do the users know how to best operate the building?  No - Make sure users are aware of the passive systems that reduce energy use  Yes - A great building that isn't operated well destroys the design    10. Can we minimize the impervious site materials?  No - Large parking and sidewalk areas have a large impact  Yes - Grasses and natural areas create carbon sinks    Sustainable building design is complex, but there are some basic questions that will help make the most important decisions.  

Eric and I had a great conversation with Cindy Zeis of Performance Systems Development, https://psdconsulting.com/, a company with the tag line: “Moving Energy Efficiency Forward” and description. We combine building science with technology to help utility companies, program implementers, and building performance professionals achieve energy savings.   This whole conversation was spurred by a post that Cindy made on Linked in about electrification programs and the need to get our priorities straight.   https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/electrification-programs-getting-our-priorities-straight-cindy-zeis   I was especially attracted to this paragraph in Cindy’s post: In light of recent developments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other funding opportunities that promote installation of heat pumps and other energy efficient technologies, it's essential to emphasize the importance of considering a building as a holistic system. It's important to highlight the critical role of the building envelope and energy efficient components, such as lighting, in minimizing energy loads before sizing mechanical equipment. It's also important to incorporate third-party verification for both building and mechanical system performance.”   This episode was recorded in October 2023.    

DEFINITION of Culture Learned patterns of perception, values, and behaviors, SHARED by a group of people that are dynamic and heterogeneous. (diverse in character or content.)   I like having guests on the podcast share their journeys and important lessons learned along the way.  We explore these topics and more with Tim Destasio as he explains how he learned what he knows today.   From his start in industrial, ending up in residential and now combining building science, Tim shares with us his lessons learned and his perspectives on #betterHVAC   Tim is very active on LinkedIn, so follow him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-de-stasio-0618824a/   We spoke of “Corbett’s list”, well here it is: https://homediagnosis.tv/hvac-installers Look for his HVAC course on Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/user/tim-r-de-stasio/ His YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn6U4wQe3DPYFFp4kiy_z0w     This episode was recorded in August 2023.    

We had a great time interviewing the man behind the brand “Love2HVAC”. Ty Branaman’s passion for all things HVAC education certainly comes through in every conversation and interaction we’ve had. Ty has a lot of patience (and a small pointer finger thing) that help explain and highlight whatever topic is teaching at the moment. He stresses the use of tools, measurements and your brain to help teach the invisible. He encourages new instructors to “go for it” and be willing to make mistakes, but observant to learn from them. He firmly believes teaching helps you be a better person, a better manager. You will learn more when you teach. (I whole heartedly agree, there!) You will often find Ty on other podcasts, live streams, in conferences and at the HVACR School Symposium. This year he gave a great session on Educating and Training Gen Z https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHs9AD6wRz8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@love2hvac His website: https://www.love2hvac.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ty.branaman/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/love2hvac Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love2hvac/?hl=en Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ty-branaman-cmhe-07604a33/     This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

I’m not exactly sure when I got introduced to the concepts of EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System. It was likely during my 12 week “crash course” in business with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program or 10kSB (https://www.goldmansachs.com/citizenship/10000-small-businesses/US/ ) – probably one of the 145 people in my National Cohort #6 mentioned it. I read the book Traction by Geno Wickman in 2017 and slowly started integrating the ideas into the way we run TruTech Tools. In the spring of 2022, I re-read it and presented to our leadership team. We decided to go full bore and started the process of adopting EOS company wide in the summer of 2022. On today’s podcast I chat with our EOS implementer, Derek Pittak. Derek shares the key components of EOS with us including dissecting issues, following processes and traction, the execution piece. EOS has a lot of quick tidbits you can pick up. However, if this interest you, I suggest you get the book Traction and read it cover to cover or reach out to someone like Derek. Derek’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-pittak-4b2ba86a/   Derek’s microsite: https://www.eosworldwide.com/derek-pittak EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/     This episode was recorded in September 2023.

Eric and I had the pleasure of interviewing Josh Teekell, founder of SmartAC.com Josh has envisioned, developed, and built a straightforward, EASY-to-install tech product that enables Smart Maintenance plans. Josh describes the net result for HVAC and plumbing companies is for them to maximize their revenue by dramatically increasing their membership conversion rates, lowering customer attrition, and eliminating zero-fee truck rolls. SmartAC.com is an air conditioning and heating (HVAC) health-monitoring platform that digitizes the experience of AC ownership, extends equipment life, and saves homeowners money by proactive notice of the need for HVAC maintenance, alerting users & service providers of a potential breakdown before it occurs.  The sensors monitor cooling and heating performance, airflow, air filter life, and drain lines to ensure the health of critical HVAC components.  SmartAC.com membership begins at just $10 per month. It includes a lifetime warranty on the hardware, daily system health checks, discounted air filters, active water leak monitoring, real-time chat with certified HVAC experts, and monthly system health reports. 10-minute set up, no tools, no wiring. Josh’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jateekell/   https://www.smartac.com/technology   Learn more here where Ken Goodrich, Jim Bergmann and others tell you about the impact of this unique tech: https://hvac.smartac.com/   This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

Meet Robby Schwartz, founder of the BuildTank and the BuildTank Podcast who aims  Robby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robby-schwarz-b17b956/ I have been engaged in Applied Building Science, Resiliency and Sustainability, energy efficiency, Codes etc. since the early 1990’s. My experience is varied, including several years working as a commercial fisherman in Alaska, traveling the world, working in the construction trades, and then as a consultant with production and custom builders, code jurisdictions, private clients, and the Colorado Energy Office, amongst others. I started BUILDTank, inc. to be a practical building think tank whose mission is to use what we learn by applying building science in the field to affect meaningful change in the construction industry. To chase issues that hold the industry back and generate ideas and innovations that move sustainable building into mainstream building.   Podcast details: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/buildtank-buildcast/id1554383191 At BuildTank, a pragmatic building think tank, our mission is to use what we learn applying building science to affect meaningful change in the construction industry. The BUILDCast is the next step. Through conversations, we will learn something new from our guests’ story that could be the catalyst to take sustainable buildings to mainstream building. We will concentrate on the “story”. No two second intro, instead a deep dive into life experiences that create interesting lives and ultimately move our industry forward. Join me and learn something new from each conversation.     This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

My guest today, Alex DeGagne’, is one of those very interesting people I have met in my travels in the last few years. Alex is CEO & owner of MINOTAIR, a manufacturing company currently based in Gatineau in southwestern, Quebec, Canada.  His main product is the Pentacare-V12, a compact, ultra efficient air exchanger that incorporates a HEPA filter, and uses a self-contained heat pump to control ventilation, temperature and humidity in a home. In his words: “Our PentaCare Series is a product using cutting-edge technology to care of 5 things: Heating + Ventilation + Air filtration + Cooling + Dehumidification. HVAC-D It’s like 4-machines-in-1: 1- an Active Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilator with the highest SRE efficiency certified by the HVI for best comfort; 2-a Ducted Air Source Heat Pump; 3- a Dehumidifier; 4- a HEPA MERV 15 Medical-Grade Air Filtration device which can help greatly during wildfire smokes episodes.” Alex speaks to us about science, especially building science, home construction and indoor air quality as well as the practical aspects of manufacturing and distributing such an innovative product.   Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-de-gagne-minotair/ His email: [email protected]   Links mentioned in the podcast: Minotair home page: https://www.minotair.com/home_us/ Ventilation info: https://www.minotair.com/ventilation-2/ Show info: https://www.minotair.com/visitus_us/ Where to buy: https://www.minotair.com/resellers-us/ Pentacare-V12: https://www.minotair.com/minotair-pentacare-v12_us/ Brochure: https://www.minotair.com/wp-content/uploads/MINOTAIR_PENTACARE_V12_BROCHURE_032019_EN_WEBs.pdf Guide and Manual: https://www.minotair.com/wp-content/uploads/MINOTAIR%20-%20PENTACARE-V12%20-%20Manual%20-%20EN%20-%20Rev%20018B.pdf An overview of the ASHRAE 62.2 specification: https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/articles/ashrae-standard-622-ventilation-and-acceptable-indoor-air-quality-low-rise     Alex’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-de-gagne-minotair/   This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

Eric Kaiser and I had the pleasure of interviewing the man, the myth, the legend (and our friend) Jim Bergmann in this episode. As Jim’s business has grown, there are a lot of new updates, activities and events happening and coming up soon. Go to the mQ site for more details, especially the resources page: https://measurequick.com/resources/ Some significant quotes and thoughts from the interview: Changing the culture in a company is hard to do; it must start from the top They don’t make products like they used to, or is it you that hasn’t kept up Manufacturers have refined their designs; installation instructions have serious details that they assume all techs will follow. NEWSFLASH: The measureQuick 2.5 Public Beta is available now with guided workflows! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqSN23giepQ   Links mentioned in the interview: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bergmann-2968178/ www.MeasureQuick.com https://measurequick.com/electrification-an-open-letter/ https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/technicalnotes/nist.tn.1848.pdf Podcast with Kevin Hart of Haven: EP111 https://buildinghvacscience.libsyn.com/ep111-putting-the-v-back-in-hvac-and-why-you-should-care-with-kevin-hart-march-2023 UPCOMING podcast (EP136) with Josh Teekell of www.SmartAC.com https://www.heatpumpsummit.org/   This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

I’ve been meeting a lot of interesting people from the tech world in in the last year or so.  My new colleague at Duckling, John Hoehn, Shelby Breger at Conduit and most recently, Brent Davidson. Brent has created the first US Heat Pump Summit coming up this November in Berkeley, CA- links below for details. He defines success for the event as the attendees leaving with many new, meaningful connections. It is structured to have a contractor focus so attendees leave with tactical knowledge to begin using immediately. In his words: “Everyone admitted to this conference is on the same team. Whether you got into this work for decarbonizing buildings or a good way to make a living, we all are here with the same goal - sell and successfully install more heat pumps.” The event is hosted in association with the Eneref Institute, and will feature expert-led training from a building science based approach, broad knowledge across topics including how heat pumps fit into a customer’s home electrification journey, the future of the grid, and more. You should attend if you work primarily in heat pumps or building electrification.   This summit's focus includes a few main areas: building science, smart tools, companies making heat pumps and building electrification hardware, software for sales and remote heat load estimation, companies connecting electrification customers with contractors, demand response tech, and HVAC pro’s in the field.    There’s a great list of featured speakers including my pals, Joe Medosch and Eric Kaiser. I’ll also be there broadening my network of connections.   Head to the website, scroll to the bottom and join the Summit Community for: Discounted tickets Articles on new tech for contractors Invites to Heat Pump Happy Hours Summit updates Link to the Heat Pump Summit: https://www.heatpumpsummit.org/ Brent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdavidson/ Email: [email protected] Research Institute we mention: www.Eneref.org   This episode was recorded in August 2023.    

This episode started in 2018. I have had the notion for quite a while (since 2018) of the need for a responsible contractor network or RCN. This came up when my widowed sister that lives many states away was having trouble with her HVAC system in her home. She asked who I might recommend. I had no immediate answer. I created a few basic principles of conduct, process, and integrity for RCN. I even bought a domain and mentioned the idea a few times (at the HVAC School Symposium) and received some decent response. Then I fell into other rabbit holes. Fast forward to 2023 and I came across a list put forth by Corbett Lunsford: https://homediagnosis.tv/hvac-installers “The List is a voluntary, un-vetted directory of HVAC Installers across North America who will trust and follow, or even perform in-house, design calculations (Manual J, S, and D). These companies have self-selected, by affirming the following questions: I understand that the first step in proper HVAC design is a Manual J (or equivalent) load calculation, targeting the 99% hottest and coldest design temperatures the home will be exposed to I understand that in more airtight, insulated, and ventilated homes the load may prove to be between 1000-2500 sq ft per ton of cooling If I follow the software-based design correctly, I understand that it is not my problem if the home is not as airtight as the builder or client told me it would be, and a simple blower door test can prove that any performance issues are the enclosure's fault rather than my HVAC installations”   Dang, he did it! Then I scrolled through the list (now 51 strong) and saw someone in Pittsburgh where I live! And that’s how this episode all started. Oh, and Mat has a very interesting backstory that I think you will enjoy. Mat Stone [email protected]   This episode was recorded in August 2023.   PS we referred to Episode 21 with Ed Kisiel Super tight houses using standard construction.  

“Art and sweat built the tool bag.” This statement summarizes my interview with Roger Brouard, the founder of VETO Pro Pac. Roger shares with us the full story of his work life which lead him from a Fine Arts degree in Sculpture to becoming a carpenter and building wooden lobster boats – which is not an easy task, “it’s like making a zucchini out of wood.” Roger describes frustrations in using various tool boxes and tool bags that became the impetus for him creating the VETO ProPac product line Roger opines on how to become a successful inventor: solve a real problem, have solid conversations, believe in your product, have conviction. "I wanted a name that would convey the quality and durability of our products. Veto is a strong word that means to forbid or to stop something. I wanted our customers to know that our tool bags were built to last and would never let them down. After working as a carpenter for over 25 years, I became fed-up with the various tool-carrying devices available on the market. In my view, they all fell short: from metal or plastic boxes to soft-sided mason bags that hold tools in a horizontal pile up. In these configurations, unnecessary tool hunts result in “D & D” (dig or dump) and challenge your patience as you search for the tool you need. Attempts at improving tool carrying and storing have been made over the years, such as pocketed fabric inserts that fit in and around a 5-gallon bucket. However, the “deep” pockets aren’t deep enough, tools stored in the exterior pockets are exposed making transportation and storage awkward, and a pile up of interlocking tools on the inside hint at the handicaps of the other bags. Storing the loaded bucket in your truck requires a clear and secure area, and if not wedged or bungeed, “LFT” (Loose Flying Tools) occurs with sudden stops. It can be a real mess especially if the bucket bottom has become a catch all for left over nails and drywall screws. It is because of this long list of frustrations that I created VETO PRO PAC.” Learn more about the company here: https://vetopropac.com/ Veto tool bags are available at a wide variety of wholesalers including: https://trutechtools.com/vetopropac This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

Jennifer Manzo is a powerhouse. I do not know where she finds the time to do all she does. From running a HVAC business and raising a family in Maine with her partner Valentino Valeriani, to creating the HVAChicks Coalition to running a free tech support line (see below) and much much more, I really do not know how she does it! In this podcast she mentions it is one of her goals to help save the trades by allowing people who cannot afford training to get into the industry. Listen in to Jennifer’s inspirational story and I encourage you to connect and support her efforts. Email Jennifer at [email protected] HVAChicks Tech Support: 856-390-4055 24/7/365  -- also on Facebook messenger  Misti: Sunday and Tuesday Jennifer: Monday and Wednesday Dirk: Thursday (Residential) Valentino: Thursday and Saturday (Commercial) Jimmy: Friday   Links mentioned in the podcast: Now co-hosting the Misfits of HVAC podcast with Ryan Hughes, Misfits of HVAC on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misfitsofhvac Misfits of HVAC podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/misfits-of-hvac/id1678018673   SkillCat for free EPA-608 certification and free training. https://www.skillcatapp.com/   HVAChicks on social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@hvachicksjennifer https://www.instagram.com/hvachicks/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/groups/812323020341191   HVAC In Recovery:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094781724166   This episode was recorded in August 2023.  

(He blinded us with science) (Science) (Science) (Science) Actually he spends a lot of time illuminating us with details about building science.   Join us as Allison Bailes, “a well known troublemaker and a general pain in the asterisk” shares with us the career path that lead him to form the Energy Vanguard. You see, a vanguard is the group of people who are at the forefront of a new movement or idea. They are the innovators and pioneers who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. And yes, Alison’s business, The Energy Vanguard, moves the art and practice of well-applied building science forward by providing excellent HVAC design services, training, an awesome blog and newsletter and more recently a book! “A House Needs to Breathe or Does it?, now available to TruTechTools, from the author and on Amazon, is a well written book describing the basic science of residential buildings. While describing what is right, cautioning what is wrong, a few myths do get busted along the way. Be sure you catch the discussion of the COVID Risk Reduction measures put in place at the Building Science Summer Camp Symposium in 2022. Allison’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonabailes/ Links mentioned in the podcast: The Energy Vanguard Website: https://www.energyvanguard.com/ Allison’s book: at TruTech: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html From The Energy Vanguard: https://energyvanguardstore.com/ On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/House-Needs-Breathe-Does-Introduction/dp/1958711128 The Blog: https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/ SIgn up for the Newsletter: on any page on the website: https://www.energyvanguard.com/ The Building Science Boogie Band: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkwlJZKQY0aFU6nmE5BL6Xw Joe Lstiburek’s Building Science business with links to MANY Articles: https://buildingscience.com/ Bill Bahnfleth, Penn State University Prof: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wbahnfleth/ How to build a Corsi-Rosenthal filter box: https://cleanaircrew.org/box-fan-filters/ Also a modification called a Comparetto Cube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7eL2OAnqc8   This episode was recorded in July 2023.  

Wes Davis joins us to provide some definitions, insights, and perspectives on HVAC Codes and Standards from his role as Director of Technical Services at ACCA - The AirConditioning Contractors of America. We dig into details of the ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310, The Standard for Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems, published in June 2020.  The 310 standard was written mainly to help builders earn RESNET HERS credit for installing AND commissioning residential HVAC systems.  RESNET HERS scores are given to new construction homes for a host of benefits described here:  https://www.hersindex.com/know-your-homes-hers-index-score/hers-index-understanding-the-hers-score/ Yet, the 310 standard, like the other ACCA standards, manuals, and publications (see links below), allows any technician or contractor to quickly assimilate industry and institutional knowledge from all the stakeholders that built, reviewed, and commented on the publications. This is a terrific way to build a better business. We also touch on the vast array of other member benefits avail at ACCA, like MIX groups, advocacy, forums, and technical support. A great way to immerse yourself and your business in this world of knowledge and connection is to attend the next ACCA Conference in October in Indianapolis: https://www.acca.org/accanextlevel/home   Wes’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesdavisacca/ Links mentioned in the podcast: The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0312430000? Link to Download ANSI/RESNET/ACCA Standard 310: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/ANSIRESNETACCA_310-2020_v7.1.pdf ACCA History: https://www.acca.org/about-acca ACCA Full list of member benefits: https://www.acca.org/join Contractor accreditation: https://www.acca.org/qa ACCA Manual S, link to download and public review: https://www.acca.org/viewdocument/public-review-of-additional-modific ACCA OnLine Store: https://www.acca.org/store#/storefront Advocacy for the HVAC trade: https://www.acca.org/advocacy/government-relations Educational info: https://www.acca.org/certification Resources: https://www.acca.org/resources   This episode was recorded in July 2023.  

Let me take you back to a time, long, long ago, when Jim Bergmann did not understand everything in HVAC. Listen in as we delve into the story of Jim Bergmann and how the communities of HVAC, and more recently building science, helped to encourage and challenge Jim to become the HVAC guru that we know today. From his self-described times of annoying the crap out of Bill Spohn, to his overlapping experiences as a contractor, educator, product specialist, TruTech Tools founder, iManifold designer, and mQ master…Jim has had, no he has created, a unique career ladder to find his reason for being. We get into a couple of mQ topics including the new guided workflows (coming shortly) to the topic of data quality and data integrity that drove the need for paid tests. Here is a cool quote from this Episode: “Don’t service the mistakes you sell.” We finish up with some forward-looking advice Jim gives to contractors and equipment and tool manufacturers.   Links mentioned in the podcast: mQ website https://www.MeasureQuick.com Jim’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bergmann-2968178/ The Building Science Boogie Band: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkwlJZKQY0aFU6nmE5BL6Xw Waffles Twitter account: https://twitter.com/mqwaffles     This episode was recorded in July 2023.  

Connect and support: a kind and noble mission that can span all elements of humanity. Connect in one way to understand.  Connect in a second way to bring information streams together. Conduit Tech is developing a means of rapidly connecting technical information to help HVAC contractors excel - what a cool basis for the name of a new company!   In this episode, I am joined by Shelby Breger cofounder of Conduit Tech who explains the motivations and synergies that brought she and Marisa Reddy together to form a company that is creating a technology solution to save time on load calculations. The software uses LIDR enabled iPhone and iPads to collect spatial details that are rapidly turned into a load calculation (think 15 minutes to a load calc for 2400 sq ft). The speed and accuracy should impress customers with targeted comfort and sizing insights, 3D models, and detailed project planning. They are in the early stages of product launch (a paid beta) with 50 users.   Links mentioned in the podcast: Conduit Tech’s website https://getconduit.com/ Shelby’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-ann-breger/ Mariss’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisareddy/ Shelby’s email: [email protected]   This episode was recorded in July 2023.  

A simple episode where Eric Kaiser (ELK) and Bill Spohn (OverKill Bill) riff on TruTech’s business philosophies: Core Values, Purpose and Niche and what kind of actions we take to put these words into action in the world. Also what we feel it means to be a good steward to the industry. OH and cheer on #HVACLIFE team in the Maine 70.3 Ironman on July 30, 2023 featuring Chris Hughes (TEC-13.2 miles running), Chad Simpson (Simpson Salute – 56 miles bicycling) and our own Eric Kaiser – 1.2 miles swimming). https://www.ironman.com/im703-maine Links mentioned in the podcast: Alabama Power training center: https://www.alabamapower.com/business/business-customers-and-services/hvac/hvac-training.html RESNET 2023 Proposals: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/RESNET_Session-Topics_TOC_06-27.pdf RESNET 2023 Session Voting: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YQ0ezGAXFrmdwdaRht8K1Ga9YdGZQ7OhP9yWQDoxMGU/viewform?edit_requested=true&pli=1 RESNET Conference: https://www.resnet.us/conference-2023/ Magazine article on Building Science Summer Camp: https://www.jlconline.com/how-to/insulation/highlights-from-building-science-summer-camp_o Article on the 2022 United Association Event: https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104405-ua-builds-toward-the-future-with-68th-annual-instructor-training-program TEC Train the Trainer Event: https://energyconservatory.com/september-2023-hvac-system-performance-train-the-trainer/ HPC New England: https://building-performance.org/events/regional/new-england/ This episode was recorded in July 2023.  

This episode should be helpful to business owners.  However, anyone working IN a business should find it interesting to know more about one of the topics on the mind of many business owners: business succession planning. After walking the walk of leading a $100M family-owned business through their transition, Laurie is now a guide to business owners providing a structured process to plan successful transitions of their companies. Laurie hosts a podcast, Succession Stories (link below), has written a book: The Business Transition Handbook (link below) and is an adjunct professor of Entrepreneurship at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University. I have both been a guest on her podcast and read her book. Laurie has a tremendous depth of knowledge and experience and easily understood way of speaking and teaching on a topic so near and dear to her heart.   Laurie’s links: Website: https://smalldotbig.com/ Podcast: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/succession-stories-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZrCRoEBQhh-SP1BDwnhMZA/videos The Business Transition Handbook: https://a.co/d/6HEY3Ap Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebarkman/     This episode was recorded in June 2023.  

Brian Uhler calls himself a naturally observant builder. This personal characteristic has served him well as understands the residential construction market with some keen observations. Join as Brian explains how he came to learn about building science, later building it into all projects. Also, hear about how he found this podcast by mistake! Here’s cool description from of his brother’s YouTube that shows these traits run in the family: The purpose of this channel is promote knowledge and education in construction. Here in the US, many of us don’t have any formal training or education in construction, but we learn through experience. My goal with this page is to promote learning and to that end I will show what I’ve learned over the years. I want to be very clear, what I show here is just a starting point. I am not claiming the tricks and methods I use are the best way to do any one thing, but rather are the end result of 20+ years of refinement with many more years to go. What I hope is that you as the reader/viewer will have an open mind and be willing to share your suggestions. Let’s all view ourselves as learners first, teachers second. Then all of us will progress together.   Brian’s links: Website: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/ Contact: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/contact/ Brian’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/pioneerbuildersinc His brother’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiDg_Mo6aJAOEnlGI4iilQw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-uhler-48537577/     This episode was recorded in June 2023.

Listen in as Bill chats with… himself! Again! He shares some recent, personal and business encounters and discussions that left an impression on him. We hope you find them interesting.   This episode was recorded in June 2023.  

Trevor Matthews shares with us his fascinating life story: from the moment he shifted his life interests from travel and surfing into the trades and as it led to forming the Refrigeration Mentor a training, education and mentorship program for the refrigeration trade. Some notable thoughts from this episode: “You can get a handle on anything with your mindset.” “Be prepared to pay the price in time and effort to get what you want.” “Important small experiences you have become your own.” “You need to put in the reps: reading and studying to reach your goal.” “Stay Focused. Don’t drift.”   Trevor’s links: Website: www.refrigerationmentor.com Contact: https://refrigerationmentor.com/contact-us/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RefrigerationMentor Trevor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejmatthews/   This episode was recorded in June 2023.  

The 349 common connections Eric Kaiser and I share in LinkedIn speak a lot to the common perspectives we share. Yet, it’s in the differences, in the weeds, where the conversation gets interesting. Please welcome Eric Kaiser as TruTech Tool’s new Industry Engagement manager. And new co-host of this podcast. We call Eric the ELK, his initials, to differentiate him from my Co-Owner, Eric Preston. Let’s get to know him a little better in this episode.   Eric’s links: Email: [email protected] Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/grapevinetv/ YouTube video on Entering the trades: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqsSiT5dnRk The National Comfort Institute www.NCIhvac.com HVAC School Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/ The Energy Vanguard blog: Allison Bailes: www.energyvanguard.com Building Science Corp seminars: https://buildingscience.com/upcoming-events-and-training This episode was recorded in June 2023.  

Jeremy’s been studying the details for many years.   Details like: Building and energy codes are becoming more and more stringent.  Green building programs are driving more and more high-end construction.  Products and construction techniques are rapidly evolving. He’s also paid attention to what is sorely needed and missing. That's why he’s helped to define the full HVAC use-case: requirements, performance, technology, architectural integrity, installation, and maintenance. Listen in as Jeremy give clues and hints on how we can all do better in HVAC design. Jeremy’s business: https://www.hvacdesignpartners.com/ Jeremy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdbegley/ Links to the “order of Operations for Heat Pumps” blog posts https://information.insulationinstitute.org/blog/order-of-operations-matters-with-heat-pumps https://information.insulationinstitute.org/blog/its-the-order-of-operations-with-heat-pumps-part-2 A couple of Jeremy’s favorite resources: The National Comfort Institute www.NCIhvac.com The Energy Vanguard blog: Allison Bailes: www.energyvanguard.com Bryan Orr’s HVAC School: www.HVACRSchool.com The Comfort Institute: www.comfortinstitute.org/ ACCA: https://www.acca.org/certification   This episode was recorded in May 2023.  

Zac Reed, Product manager at Aeroseal, joins us today to share the technology, history and applications for Aeroseal products. Aeroseal was developed in Dr. Mark Modera’s California garage in 1993.   For the first time ever, it was possible to seal leaks and holes in air ducts from the inside out. Up until that time, the only way to seal ductwork was messy, labor intensive, and not an option for most homeowners. The simplest explanation for the Aeroseal process is fix-a-flat for homes: both ducts and the home structure. Aeroseal’s mission is to help homeowners retain their “expensive air”: which delivers comfort, healthy air, and substantial energy savings. Contractor’s interested in getting trained and becoming Aeroseal dealers can learn more about this and the products at www.Aeroseal.com Learn more on Aeroseal’s YouTube channel: YouTube Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-reed-060a46225/   This episode was recorded in May 2023.  

Listen in as Bill chats with… himself! He shares some recent, personal and business encounters and discussions that left an impression on him. We hope you find them interesting.   This episode was recorded in May 2023.

Listen in as Bill chats with Ben Walker, the Co-CEO of Retrotec about a wide range of technology related topics from sensors to programming to AI-Artificial Intelligence. Ben shares with us his experiences over his career in tech companies, primarily with Retrotec, one of TruTech’s major vendors of air tightness and air flow testing gear. We learn about the history of the digital manometer at Retrotec, as well as the important topic of enclosure integrity testing and how to manage large building testing. Other topics of note include the move to DC motors, rCloud an app based test data platform (and so much more), the long list of new features on the DM32X digital manometer and more. Retrotec products: https://www.trutechtools.com/retrotec THE ALL NEW Retrotec DM32X digital gauge: https://www.trutechtools.com/retrotec-dm32x-digital-gauge.html Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walker-4a05901/ As Ben suggests, try ChatGPT yourself at www.openai.com   This episode was recorded in April 2023.  

In this episode, Bill interviews Chris Stephens Refrigeration Business owner and Social Media Influencer extraordinaire!   There are so many nuggets to mine out of this episode, I hope you spend the time to listen to all of it. Chris is truly a multidimensional person, not like in the SciFi way though where he can walk through walls. His Big Picture concept, which he uses in all aspects of his life can be summarized as: Slow Down – Pause, allow you mind to catch up with where you are Take a Step Back - Think about what is going on Look at the Big Picture  - Summarize the pros and cons of the various paths and decide if a short cut is worth it in the long run. Additionally, we talk about: The lost art of evacuation The Genesis of the 2 social media projects he started/ is in: HVACR Videos and HVAC OverTime His personal home performance project/journey His perspectives on electrification And much more Chris’ business: https://www.jvsrefrigeration.com/ Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-stephens-a414651a6/ His 2 YouTube Channels:  https://www.youtube.com/c/HVACRVIDEOS https://www.youtube.com/@HVACOvertime This episode was recorded in April 2023.  

In this episode, Bill interviews Michael Rubino founder of HomeCleanse.com We discuss the technical & business aspects of mold removal and where it fits in to addressing and solving mold problems in a home or building. Michael is a forward thinker, having created his own mold remediation school for employees. At the school, they utilize the concept of I Do, We Do, You Do, that is you must be able to execute like the company experts in order to graduate to doing field/customer work. He is also author of The Mold Medic: An Expert's Guide on Mold Removal and a council-certified Mold Remediator by IICRC and ACAC and a contributing member, sponsor, and speaker for the Indoor Air Quality Association. We learn about how his growing up in the construction and remediation industry, influenced his current work. Michael’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Mold-Medic-Experts-Guide-Removal-ebook/dp/B08FPCTWNZ Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelrubino88/ His website: https://www.themichaelrubino.com/ This episode was recorded in March 2023.

In this episode, Bill interviews Adam Mufich, AKA A-Team Adam. You may know Adam from his video podcast, HVAC OverTime, which is a big collaboration he does with his friends Chris Stephens (HVACR Videos on YouTube), Bill Russell (Curious HVAC Guy on YouTube) and OT Joe (HVACR OverTime North on YouTube) In their words: “We never sugar coat anything; we tell it like it is. If you want the real uncensored hot takes on the state of the industry, come hang out live every Friday at 9:00pm EST on both YouTube and Facebook.” https://www.facebook.com/groups/775287052979835 Adam describes his personal journey in the trades, where is has gotten him and where he is headed. Adam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mufich-5225055a/ Adam recently wrote a very interesting blog post we mention in the interview: https://hvacrschool.com/dunning-kruger-in-hvac/ He’s also one of the hosts of the new Cooler Heads Podcast:  https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-cooler-heads-podcast-103621990/ You should also check out the YouTube Channel of the celebrity guest Adam mentions, Big Clive: https://www.youtube.com/@bigclivedotcom 969,000 viewers with 2,100 videos – I’m pretty sure you will find something of interest! Other links we mention: https://www.hvac20.com/#/ https://www.youtube.com/@HVACUncensored https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/ This episode was recorded in March 2023.  

In this episode, Bill chats with Kevin Hart, the founder of HAVEN, a start up that makes a unique IAQ sensor/control system. Hear from Kevin about his background as an electrical contractor and how he came up with the idea for Haven, as well as all the iterations the product has been through. In the episode he describes RDCV: Residential Demand Control Ventilation and why it is important for contractors and homeowners to understand details on this subject. Learn how a simple chemical compound that is found in most homes can convert to formaldehyde, a carcinogen. Haven Website: https://haveniaq.com/ Haven for sale at TruTech Tools: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven Haven 22 is the DISCOUNT CODE for this product: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven-central-air-monitor.html which is for Pros to use to get a product to install for customers or in their own homes. Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrhart/ Kevin’s email: [email protected]   Here’s a link to Grace and Corbett Lunsford’s HOMECHEM videos we mentioned: http://bit.ly/HOMEchem     This episode was recorded in March 2023.  

In this episode, Bill explains some of the activities that are keeping him busy lately. The National HVACR Education Conference https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx   The National Home Performance Conference https://building-performance.org/events/national/   The National Comfort Institute (NCI) HVAC Summit https://www.gotosummit.com/sessions/   Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business FREE educational program https://www.10ksbapply.com/   This episode was recorded in March 2023.  

What’s it like to build a tech product from the ground up?   How do you validate that a market exists?   What tools can you use to gain confidence that you are on the right track?     In this week’s podcast, Bill Spohn is joined by John Hoehn, CEO of Duckling.   Duckling’s mission is to help contractors help their customers on their journey to electrifying their homes.   John and his co-founder, Sudeep Yegnashankaran have deep backgrounds in software development. They have been working on Duckling over the last two years and are now recruiting their first customers.   Bill is honored to join their team as an advisor alongside Elliott Trice, who brings decades of experience in tech product development and design.   Keep your eyes open and ears peeled for what Duckling hatches in the coming year!       In full disclosure, Bill has a small financial interest in Duckling.     Duckling website: www.getduckling.com   Results from the contractor survey conducted in late 2022: https://bit.ly/HVAC-electrify   Duckling one-page overview: https://bit.ly/Duckling-1-23   Are you a contractor interested in being a design partner with Duckling? Fill out this quick form: https://bit.ly/Duckling-EAP   Electrification Panel Discussion at the 2023 HVAC School Symposium featuring Kimberly Llewellyn, Jim Bergmann and Bill Spohn* https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/electrification-panel/   * a small fee will gain you access to all recorded sessions from the Symposium for a limited time.   Learn more about Steve Blank, who guidance John mentions in the podcast: https://steveblank.com/books-for-startups/     This episode was recorded in February 2023.  

What do we do with our time? What did I do with my time in the last week? The Bangles said it best: … Time, time, time  See what's become of me  While I looked around for my possibilities   In this episode, Bill is joined by Eric Kaiser where they share observations on products and events and the interesting people they engaged with during their 4 day excursion to the AHR Expo 2023.   The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/ SUPCO TradeFox site and application: https://www.supcotradefox.com/ TruTech TradeFox page: https://www.trutechtools.com/supco-trade-fox.html Diversitech TradeInvent application: https://info.diversitech.com/tradeinvent-by-diversitech ASHRAE Standard 221: https://hvactoday.com/ashrae-221/ REFCO Inverter Checker: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Inverter-Check-Kit-wData-Flow-Monitor_p_4930.html REFCO Gobi Condensate pump: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Gobi REFCO Combi Condensate Pump: https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-COMBI-Condensate-Removal-Pump-Universal-Voltage REFCO Karoo Condensate pump https://www.trutechtools.com/Refco-Karoo JB Climate Class probes: https://www.trutechtools.com/jb-climate-class.html Sauermann Combustion Analyzers: https://www.trutechtools.com/sauermann-combustion-analysis.html This episode was recorded in February 2023.  

In this episode, Bill explains some of the activities that have kept him busy in the first few weeks of 2023. The HVACR Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/   The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/   Installing a new operating system at TruTech Tools: EOS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpXL2SGfkBc https://www.eosworldwide.com/     This episode was recorded in February 2023.

Today, I feel very in tune with this podcast’s stated mission:   Building HVAC Science covers a broad array of topics in building science and HVAC diagnostics, as well as human comfort, health, and safety….; this show will take a deep dive into all things that relate to buildings and people in the built environment.   I was very fortunate to interview Dr. Joe Allen, an esteemed Indoor Air Quality researcher, presenter, and author, as we covered what Joe has observed and educated us on regarding the collision between two disciplines: building science and health science.   Joe shares his observations, strategies, and tactics that are moving us toward an era where buildings go beyond doing no harm to occupants but focus more on maximizing the benefit to the occupants.   Joe joins the growing list of people on this podcast who talk (all or in part) about indoor air quality or healthy buildings: Dr. Stephanie Taylor, Dr. Bill Bahnfelth, Joe Medosch, Larry Zarker, Nate Adams, Jason Earle, Cheryl Cieko, Dawn Oggier, Brian Kennihan, Ereland Bolle, Casey Grey, Ray Wu, Ben Reed, Kaleb Saleeby, Steve Pascuzzo, Big Clive, Ty Newell, Dick Kornbluth, and Jaques Touillion, amongst others.   Joe Allen’s links:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephgardnerallen/   Harvard Faculty page: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/joseph-allen/healthy-buildings/   Kicking off the first White House Summitt on Indoor air quality in Nov 2022: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/healthybuildings/2022/10/13/dr-joseph-allen-presenting-at-white-house-summit-on-indoor-air-quality/   Healthy Buildings book on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Buildings-Indoor-Performance-Productivity/dp/0674237978   9 Foundations website:https://9foundations.com/   Follow Joe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/j_g_allen   Tune up buildings article:https://deohs.washington.edu/hsm-blog/how-giving-our-buildings-tune-can-make-us-healthier   36 Tips for a healthier home: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/36-expert-tips-for-a-healthier-home/ This episode was recorded in January 2023.

For several years, in southern Maine, a small group of building professionals have been getting together monthly to discuss building science.     Many topics are brought up for discussion: high performance windows, venting cathedral ceilings, moisture migration in wall assemblies, slab on grade details, etc. The conversation is informal and roams a bit.   At one of those meetings, one of my guests today, builder, Dan Kolbert, expressed frustration with the status quo, and even more frustration with the various rating systems that had him jumping through many hoops to prove that his work was in fact “green” and energy efficient.     Some find these systems costly in time and money and doing little to advance the project. Rather they are simply certifying them. So Dan simply stated, “I just want to build a pretty good house.”   That’s where this story begins….   https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/insulation/is-a-pretty-good-house-good-enough   https://www.thebsandbeershow.com/   https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/   https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/pgh-20 This episode was recorded in December 2022.

Today’s guest, Anna Desimone has done an awesome job compiling resources for consumers to learn about factors, features and benefits of building an Energy Efficient home.   Anna is author of Live in a Home that Pays You Back--A Complete Guide to Net Zero and Energy Efficient Homes, featuring national building programs in the U.S. and Canada. This is not a technical deep dive, but more of a consumer reference for understanding the blueprints of Building Envelope, Thermal enclosure, HVAC, Lighting and appliances, water management and more.,    Winner of three national book awards, Anna lights the way for understanding the home buying and financing process. She has written more than 40 professional handbooks on the topic of fair and responsible lending, and often serves as industry expert on news media.   Links for more about Anna and her books:   https://annadesimone.net/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/annadesimone/ https://www.amazon.com/Live-Home-that-Pays-Back/dp/1039123481   https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Live_in_a_Home_that_Pays_You_Back_A_Complete_Guide This episode was recorded in December 2022.

My three esteemed guests/amigos shed some light on common misconceptions in the HVACR industry. Catch the video version here: https://youtu.be/ZL5-sEOJj0c   We talk about fun topics like: -Heatpumps are only for the south of the Mason-Dixon line -A1 refrigerants are Non-Flammable -A2L refrigerants are Flammable -R32 is a replacement for R410a -Reclaimed refrigerant does not have any value -SEER2 has taken us by surprise -Equipment brand names determine the quality, performance and longevity of service   Link to the Esco Group website: https://www.escogroup.org/   Link to the National HVACR Education Conference: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx   Their video channel: https://www.youtube.com/@escogroup   Email Addresses for our guests: Clifton Beck: [email protected] Obrzut: [email protected] Eugene Silberstein: [email protected]   The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/   This episode was recorded in December 2022.

Listen in as Phil Zito describes the journey he has taken from being bored, to blogging to building a business that provides top notch online training and workforce development programs.    Formerly known as Building Automation Monthly, a newsletter and podcast in its early years, The Smart Buildings Academy has experienced rapid growth.   As the SBA says on their website: “If you’ve been looking for a way to take yourself or your building automation team to the next level. Then you’re in the right place. One of SBA’s guiding principles is to “Focus on the customer’s profit”. Phil understands from personal experience the importance of focusing on training that not only develops BAS knowledge but also teaches how to “do” building automation in a way that is profitable and efficient.  If you are a BAS professional looking to grow your skills or looking to enter the BAS field, you owe it to yourself to check out the SBA.   Phil’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipzito/   Smart Buildings Academy: website: https://www.smartbuildingsacademy.com/ Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildingautomationmonthly LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/3582469/   Oh, Phil also interviewed ME on his podcast recently:https://podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.com/387 This episode was recorded in December 2022.

I was thrilled to get the opportunity to interview Shawn McLaughlin, after having been impressed with the simplicity and value of using an Emporia Vue Energy Monitor for a year or so before I met him.    Shawn shares with us his back story that led him from commodities trader to company builder: designer and manufacturer of a suite of powerful, yet inexpensive products used for smart home energy management.   Learn some new acronyms that you will be hearing more of in the future, such as disaggregation, FERC and DERM as we hear of his vision for building the world’s largest virtual power plant (VPP) and his progress along that goal.   Shawn is a man of quiet confidence coupled with courage and enthusiasm. I think you will enjoy this conversation.   His LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-mclaughlin-86249215b/   Emporia Energy website: https://www.emporiaenergy.com/   This episode was recorded in November 2022.

I met Griffin at the http://www.HabitatX.com conference several years ago and found him to be thoughtful, insightful and a quiet but powerful champion of the principles he believes in.   In todays’ podcast we discuss electrification in Alaska, the deep retrofit work Griffin is doing on his own home and several other topics.   Read one of Griffin’s posts from the HabitatX Journal: https://medium.com/habitat-x-journal/thats-building-performance-bfdb2646ba53   From his LinkedIn Bio: Affordable housing executive and energy transition observer with extensive experience on the Arctic Slope of Alaska.   His LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/griffin-forster-480a1b1a/   This episode was recorded in October 2022.

Adam is a man full of energy and drive and is always eager to help.   Listen in as Adam describes the arc of his career that started in political activism and currently involves him in software, home decarbonization and net zero retrofits.   Adam shares his insights into the cost vs. benefits of measures as well as a future job classification; Home Project Advisor   Adam’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstenftenagel/   Info on The Geos project: www.DiscoverGEOS.com   Info on SnuggHomePro: www.SnuggPro.com   Info on Radiant Labs: www.RadiantLabs.co This episode was recorded in October 2022.

Katelyn Woodling joins us on today’s podcast to discuss the background and development of Bosch IDS Heat Pumps (Inverter Ducted Split).   Katie is the manager of Product management for Bosch Heating and Cooling, North America and works out of the greater Boston area.   Bosch watched market and regulatory trends, listened to customer input, and spent countless hours in the lab testing and perfecting their heat pumps to offer inverters for all.   Bosch is achieving a simplified product line with terrific tech support and contractor training.   Katie also shares with us some insights into future trends.   Katie’s Linked In profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-woodling/   Info on Bosch IDS products:  https://www.bosch-thermotechnology.us/us/en/ocs/residential/inverter-ducted-split-family-ids--18527266-p/ This episode was recorded in October 2022.

If you are in HVAC, Home Performance, IAQ or follow “electrification” and you HAVEN’T heard of Nate Adams, you will do yourself good to listen to this podcast or follow some of the links below.   Oh, and we did not get into the awesome AirBnBs he and his wife Rachel have created:https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/613585624792425971?source_impression_id=p3_1666127682_6kZMNcYeUIBpWHPr https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/689091116595593514?source_impression_id=p3_1666127730_%2BjEglaesD2Edl9UC   https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/654543526549837867?source_impression_id=p3_1666127781_WAzpzge25vf2Dsjd   https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/44685918?source_impression_id=p3_1666127806_0YbmI9pK0QhZadsQ HVAC 2.0 https://www.hvac20.com/#/   HVAC 2.0 videos https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNXmHUxNpoa_DiC54VxkJjg   The Home Comfort book (4 free chapters): https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/   The Electrify Everything course: https://nate-the-house-whisperer.ck.page/1786fbdf5a   Nate’s YouTube library: Many related topics https://www.youtube.com/c/NatetheHouseWhisperer   Policy paper on Heat Pump Adoption https://www.clasp.ngo/research/all/3h-hybrid-heat-homes-an-incentive-program-to-electrify-space-heating-and-reduce-energy-bills-in-american-homes/ This episode was recorded in October 2022.

“A day in the life of a smart building. Now spaces have memory and identity.”     Now more than ever, facility owners and managers are incorporating smarter and more connected building technologies to improve proactive maintenance, reduce energy use, and create operational efficiencies.    On todays’ podcast, Vineet Sinha, VP of Product management at Johnson Controls joins us to shed light on how connected building systems are operating holistically and working together to create a truly smart environment.   Buildings of the future are here today and can do all this. It sounds complex, but these smart buildings cost a lot less to run and use fewer resources, all while ensuring indoor spaces are clean and safe.     In this discussion, we walk listeners through a day in the life a smart building from the perspective of an everyday occupant and explain how connected technologies enable an experience that makes people feel comfortable, safe and in control.    Vineet shares with us definitions of a building persona and how building are moving to cognition of the occupants. You can connect with Vineet on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinhavineet/   Learn more about JCI’s Open Blue Solutions at: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/openblue This episode was recorded in Oct 2022.