Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Heat Pump Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #69 More Energy Than My Car: Luke Winston-Almanzar of Reservoir on Rethinking the Heat Pump Water Heater | 07 Oct 2026 | 00:45:43 | |
Water heating is the second-largest energy use in American homes, and most water heaters still run on decades-old technology. Luke Winston-Almanzar, co-founder and CEO of Reservoir, walks Ed and Eric through the heat pump water heater install problems contractors already know, how predictive controls make recirculation work with a heat pump, and why he thinks 80-gallon tanks are over-recommended. The surprise: Luke found he was using more energy to heat his water than to drive his electric car. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] - Episode Preview [02:24] - Introduction to Luke Winston-Almanzar and Reservoir [04:06] - Luke's background and the personal story behind his interest in hot water [07:53] - Why Luke chose water heating as a major climate and energy opportunity [11:14] - Competing with established manufacturers and building the founding team [14:43] - Reservoir's product thesis and the role of predictive intelligence [18:39] - How Party Mode delivers more hot water from a smaller tank [22:53] - Built-in recirculation, remote control faucets, and Legionella protection [25:58] - How Reservoir simplifies installation for contractors [31:37] - Replacing larger tanks and competing with tankless gas systems [35:35] - Reliability, serviceability, testing, and product support [37:38] - Reservoir's growth, funding, team, and early market expansion [40:04] - How Reservoir decides where to focus its innovation [43:37] - Contractor partnerships and the future of Reservoir ------------------------------------------------- Heat pump contractors in Colorado: Ed and Eric are teaching a one-day heat pump training with Power Ahead Colorado on November 5 at the Edgewater Civic Center in Edgewater, CO. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m., and sessions run 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Attendees get a year of Amply and a new 11" iPad Pro. Registration is $4,000, paid up front and reimbursed in full by Power Ahead Colorado after you attend, as long as you're registered with the Colorado Contractor Hub. 50 seats, two per company, no refunds. Registration closes October 14. Register 👉 https://bit.ly/4jGTihR ------------------------------------------------- Follow Luke Winston-Almanzar:
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| #68 Inside a $200 Million Heat Pump Rebate Program with Robert Spotts and Clay McCombe of Power Ahead Colorado | 25 Sep 2026 | 00:43:54 | |
What does it actually take to transform a regional HVAC market — not just by offering heat pump rebates, but by building the workforce, contractor ecosystem, policies, and consumer demand needed to make heat pumps mainstream? In this episode, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with Robert Spotts and Clay McCombe of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) to unpack Power Ahead Colorado, an ambitious $200 million EPA-funded program focused on accelerating heat pump adoption across the Denver region. The conversation explores the realities behind market transformation: Colorado's cheap natural gas, cold winters, contractor skepticism, complicated rebate programs, permitting and licensing barriers, and the need for high-quality installations. Robert and Clay also explain how they're working directly with contractors and local governments to remove friction and build a market that can ultimately thrive without depending on rebates. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] - Episode Teaser [03:02] - Meet Robert Spotts and Clay McCombe [05:42] - How a $200 Million Heat Pump Program Came Together [12:26] - What “Market Transformation” Actually Means [14:12] - Making Heat Pumps Work Economically in Colorado [18:08] - Dual-Fuel vs. All-Electric Systems [21:34] - Why Contractors Get Frustrated With Rebate Programs [24:48] - How Contractor Attitudes Toward Heat Pumps Are Changing [28:25] - Balancing Installation Quality With Contractor Friction [34:56] - Building a Better Contractor Marketplace [39:53] - What Success Looks Like by 2029 ------------------------------------------------- Denver contractors — join us November 5. Power Ahead Colorado is sponsoring a one-day Amply training at the Edgewater Civic Center in Edgewater, CO. 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, taught by Amply co-founders Ed Smith and Eric Fitz. Ed covers how to build a full-stack marketing and sales funnel that makes you stand out as a high-performance heat pump contractor. Eric covers Manual J, Manual S, and designing a system that won't come back to haunt you — then walks the entire Amply workflow with an iPad in your hands. You'll leave with a year of Amply and a new 11" iPad Pro. $4,000 at registration, reimbursed in full by Power Ahead Colorado after you attend, as long as you're registered with the Colorado Contractor Hub. Net cost: $0. 50 seats, maximum 2 per company. Registration closes October 14. Register: https://hubs.ly/Q04yd3Bs0 ------------------------------------------------- Follow the Guests:
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| #67 Only 5% Make It to $5 Million. Furman Haynes on What Stops the Other 95%. | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:43:14 | |
Running a successful HVAC business takes far more than technical expertise. As companies grow, owners often find themselves buried in paperwork, invoicing, rebates, permits, warranties, and back-office operations that consume 20+ hours every week. In this episode, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with Furman Haynes, Co-Founder and CEO of WorkHero, to discuss why administration — not installation — is often the biggest barrier to growth for small HVAC businesses. The conversation explores how AI, automation, and experienced office management can help contractors reclaim their time, improve customer experience, and build systems that allow their businesses to scale without sacrificing quality or family life. Furman Haynes is the Co-Founder and CEO of WorkHero, an AI-powered back-office operations platform built specifically for small HVAC contractors. After spending years visiting contractors, riding along on service calls, and learning firsthand how small businesses operate, Furman and his team built WorkHero to eliminate administrative bottlenecks through a combination of experienced HVAC office managers and AI-driven automation. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction [02:07] – Meet Furman Haynes and the mission behind WorkHero [04:02] – What Furman learned from spending years alongside HVAC contractors [08:22] – The 20-hour admin problem and why most contractors hit a growth ceiling [11:26] – Why systems, price books, and job closeout processes matter [15:37] – Common misconceptions about HVAC business owners and technology adoption [17:43] – Private equity, industry consolidation, and keeping HVAC local [21:53] – Why traditional field service software still leaves major gaps [26:45] – Inside WorkHero: combining AI with experienced HVAC office managers [37:18] – Where AI genuinely delivers value today and where the hype exceeds reality [40:33] – Advice for contractors overwhelmed by paperwork and trying to do everything themselves ------------------------------------------------- Interested in learning more about Furman’s approach to helping HVAC companies grow? Visit https://lab.workhero.pro/hvac-admin to see how their administrative support can help independent HVAC contractors overcome the operational bottlenecks that hold their businesses back. ------------------------------------------------- Follow Farman Haynes:
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| #66 HVAC Is Crowded. Derek Aarstad Made His Own Pond. | 02 Sep 2026 | 00:53:37 | |
In a crowded HVAC market, differentiation doesn’t necessarily come from adding more trucks, spending more on advertising, or racing through more sales calls. For Derek Aarstad, owner of DNA Heating and Cooling in Richmond, Virginia, it has come from doing almost the opposite: staying intentionally small, testing before guessing, and building a customer experience around evidence and education. Five years into the business, Derek is the only technician his customers see. His approach centers on measuring airflow, static pressure, duct leakage, and overall system performance before recommending solutions. After attending his first National Comfort Institute Summit, Derek realized there was a name for the work he had already been doing: high-performance HVAC. That realization helped him sharpen DNA’s positioning and communicate why his company operates differently. In this episode, Derek joins Ed Smith to unpack how that philosophy translates into a real HVAC business — from setting boundaries around free estimates and educating homeowners with simple visual evidence, to building a website that actually reflects his personality and generating business without paid advertising. The results challenge the idea that a testing-first approach has to come at the expense of growth. Derek says DNA has blown past its installation goals this year, while Reddit and word-of-mouth increasingly bring in homeowners who already understand why they want to work with him. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] - Episode Teaser [04:12] - Intentionally Small: The DNA Heating and Cooling Model [07:04] - From the Trades to HVAC Business Ownership [30:49] - Finding the Right Customers and Building a Brand That Feels Like Derek [37:23] - “I Am a High-Performance HVAC Contractor” [41:13] - Making Testing-First HVAC Work Economically [45:55] - Pull a Register: The 30-Second Move That Changes the Conversation [48:01] - Why Reddit Became DNA’s Biggest Lead Source [49:09] - The Real Reward of Building DNA [52:10] - Closing Thoughts: Building a Business That Feels Like You ------------------------------------------------- US Heat Pump Summit Sign up for the US Heat Pump Summit. Join us on September 15–16 in Worcester, Massachusetts, and connect with contractors, manufacturers, and industry leaders shaping the future of HVAC. Register at www.usheatpumpsummit.com and use code AMPLY to save on your ticket. ------------------------------------------------- Sign up for our training Be the Only Fish in Your Pond: High Performance Sales for High Performance HVAC Contractors. It’s October 22nd at 3pm eastern. In this session, you'll discover the proven sales process top HVAC contractors use to win on trust, value, and expertise, instead of price. https://info.amply.energy/be-the-only-fish-in-your-pond ------------------------------------------------- Follow Derek Aarstad:
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| #65 Bill Spohn on EOS, Succession, and Almost Selling His Business | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:59:17 | |
Bill Spohn is the owner and CEO of TruTech Tools, the host of the Building HVAC Science podcast, and one of the most respected entrepreneurs in HVAC. He's also a board member and advisor for Amply — and someone we've admired for a very long time. Taking TruTech Tools to the brink of a sale. Bill went most of the way through the process — an investment banker, a 50-page confidential information memorandum, a teaser sent to 1,500 firms, a list narrowed to four, full due diligence, a closing date on the calendar. Then, weeks from close, the buyer changed the terms. Bill waited 24 hours and called it off. He walks through what he learned: the difference between financial and strategic buyers, why he kept his team in the dark until due diligence forced the issue, and what it actually cost him. EOS — the Entrepreneurial Operating System. Bill is the reason Ed read Traction cover to cover. He traces the whole arc: finding the idea of a two-page business plan in 2015, sitting on it for two years, and eventually bringing in an implementer for a full two-year rollout. He explains GWC — gets it, wants it, has the capacity to do it — and how TruTech uses it to hire, evaluate, and coach. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Teaser [03:41] – Introducing Bill Spohn [08:41] – Bill's engineering background and career journey [11:35] – Discovering building science and the path toward electrification [17:00] – Living inside a net-zero home and lessons learned [23:37] – Heat pump design, commissioning mistakes, and why proper installation matters [27:51] – The inside story of almost selling TruTech Tools [42:18] – How EOS transformed TruTech Tools' leadership, culture, and operations [49:27] – Building strong teams through core values and the GWC hiring framework [55:25] – Better HVAC: creating a community dedicated to continuous learning and better craftsmanship ------------------------------------------------- National Comfort Institute High Performance HVAC Summit We're proud to partner with the National Comfort Institute for the High Performance HVAC Summit, taking place September 1–3 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. If you're serious about improving your technical expertise and growing your business, this is an event you won't want to miss. Register at www.gotosummit.com and save with code AMPLY2026. US Heat Pump Summit Building a successful heat pump business starts with learning from the best. Join us at the US Heat Pump Summit on September 15–16 in Worcester, Massachusetts, and connect with contractors, manufacturers, and industry leaders shaping the future of HVAC. Register at www.usheatpumpsummit.com and use code AMPLY to save on your ticket. ------------------------------------------------- Follow Bill Spohn:
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| #64 "Heat Pumps Transformed My Business" with Brynn Cooksey | 12 Aug 2026 | 00:20:02 | |
National Comfort Institute High Performance HVAC Summit We're proud to partner with the National Comfort Institute for the High Performance HVAC Summit, taking place September 1–3 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. If you're serious about improving your technical expertise and growing your business, this is an event you won't want to miss. Register at www.gotosummit.com and save with code AMPLY2026. ------------------------------------------------- US Heat Pump Summit Building a successful heat pump business starts with learning from the best. Join us at the US Heat Pump Summit on September 15–16 in Worcester, Massachusetts, and connect with contractors, manufacturers, and industry leaders shaping the future of HVAC. Register at www.usheatpumpsummit.com and use code AMPLY to save on your ticket. ------------------------------------------------- As heat pump adoption accelerates across North America, contractors have an unprecedented opportunity to grow their businesses — but success depends on more than simply replacing HVAC equipment. In this episode, Ed Smith sits down with Brynn Cooksey, founder of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling and HVAC U, to discuss why building science is the missing piece of successful heat pump installations. Brynn shares how his company transformed into a heat pump-focused business, expanded into multiple states, and why proper design, ductwork evaluation, and homeowner education are essential to delivering outstanding results. They also preview the upcoming U.S. Heat Pump Summit, where Brynn will deliver the keynote and present his session, Navigating the Heat Pump Jungle. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction [03:09] – Meet Brynn Cooksey [05:34] – Why the U.S. Heat Pump Summit Matters [08:02] – Navigating the Heat Pump Jungle [09:17] – Growing a Multi-State Heat Pump Business [12:23] – Who Should Attend the Summit? [14:30] – Why Brynn Accepted the Keynote Invitation [17:08] – Why Contractors Should Make the Trip [19:08] – Closing Remarks Follow Brynn Cooksey:
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| [WARNING - THIS IS NOT AN EPISODE] Answers to the most frequently asked questions about Amply’s software with Ed Smith | 07 Aug 2026 | 00:13:23 | |
If you're looking for a better way to size and design HVAC systems, Amply can help. Book a demo with me and I'll walk you through it, or watch a demo online at your own pace. Explore our pricing and get started today. The links are below.
------------------------------------------------- Thinking about using Amply? Before booking a demo, this episode answers the 13 questions contractors ask most often. Ed Smith, co-founder of Amply, explains who the software is built for, what makes it different from traditional Manual J tools, pricing, onboarding, hardware requirements, Manual S support, duct design workflows, offline functionality, integrations, and more. The goal is to eliminate common questions ahead of time so demo conversations can focus on how contractors can use Amply to improve system design, build homeowner trust, and win more profitable jobs. If you're looking to differentiate your HVAC business through better design, measurement, and homeowner trust — not lower prices — this episode will help you decide whether Amply is the right fit.
Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction [01:31] – Why does Amply exist? [03:47] - Question 1: Who Is Amply For? [04:39] - Question 2: What Makes Amply Different? [05:25] - Question 3: Is Amply Only for Heat Pumps? [05:58] - Question 4: What iPad Do I Need? [06:35] - Question 5: What Does Amply Cost? [07:44] - Question 6: What Does Onboarding Look Like? [08:45] - Question 7: Will My Manual J Be Accepted by Utilities, Cities, and Rebate Programs? [09:13] - Question 8: Does Amply Do Manual S? [09:46] - Question 9: What About Manual D Duct Design? [10:31] - Question 10: Does Amply Integrate with My Field Service Software? [11:11] - Question 11: Does Amply Work Without an Internet Connection? [11:14] - Question 12: Can I Use Amply for Commercial Projects? [11:46] - Question 13: How Do I Sign Up? [12:15] - Closing Follow the Hosts:
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| #63 Why Contractors Will Make or Break the Heat Pump Transition, with Panama Bartholomy | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:53:25 | |
National Comfort Institute High Performance HVAC Summit We're proud to partner with the National Comfort Institute for the High Performance HVAC Summit, taking place September 1–3 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. If you're serious about improving your technical expertise and growing your business, this is an event you won't want to miss. Register at www.gotosummit.com and save with code AMPLY2026. ------------------------------------------------- US Heat Pump Summit Building a successful heat pump business starts with learning from the best. Join us at the US Heat Pump Summit on September 15–16 in Worcester, Massachusetts, and connect with contractors, manufacturers, and industry leaders shaping the future of HVAC. Register at www.usheatpumpsummit.com and use code AMPLY to save on your ticket. ------------------------------------------------- Support the Podcast If this episode brought you value, the best way to support the podcast is simple: subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, and write a review. It helps more HVAC professionals discover the show and keeps these conversations going. ------------------------------------------------- The transition to electrification is accelerating, and heat pumps are at the center of that change. But while technology and policy often dominate the conversation, Panama Bartholomy argues that the real success of building decarbonization depends on one group: HVAC contractors. As Founder and Executive Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC), Panama discusses why contractors are now the critical link between policy, manufacturers, and homeowners. He explains how incentives, consumer education, contractor training, and smarter policy can make heat pump adoption easier, more profitable, and ultimately more affordable for everyone. The conversation also explores the future of natural gas infrastructure, rising energy costs, and why preparing for the electrification transition today is essential for HVAC businesses. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction [03:35] – Introducing Panama Bartholomy and the Building Decarbonization Coalition [04:16] – BDC's mission: accelerating heat pump adoption through collaboration [06:22] – Panama's journey into energy policy and building decarbonization [10:17] – How the Building Decarbonization Coalition was founded [14:49] – The three pillars of BDC: policy, market transformation, and consumer education [24:37] – The biggest challenges contractors face when adopting heat pumps [30:39] – Why sales training is often the missing piece [33:17] – Why contractors are the linchpin of the heat pump transition [38:25] – The future of natural gas infrastructure and what's next for electrification [50:25] – Where contractors can access BDC resources and stay informed [52:01] – Final thoughts and closing remarks Follow Panama Bartholomy:
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| #62 No Money, No Business Background, and a Two-Seat Van — How Jay Stahlberg Built Baystate Energy Services | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:49:47 | |
If you're an HVAC contractor interested in growing your expertise in heat pumps, be sure to check out the High Performance HVAC Summit this September in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. We've been given access to free conference tickets exclusively for our audience. Head to www.usheatpumpsummit.com/exclusive, and complete the short application. If approved, you'll receive a unique code that lets you claim up to two complimentary tickets to the full two-day conference for your company. Availability is limited, so don't wait to apply. Visit the link to apply today. We hope to see you there. ---------------------------------------------------------- Jay Stahlberg started Baystate Energy Services with almost no money, no business degree, and only a few years of HVAC experience — but an obsession with learning and a willingness to outwork everyone around him. In this episode, Jay shares how he built a fast-growing heat pump company from the ground up using social media, networking, building science, and relentless hustle, while navigating startup chaos, scaling challenges, and the realities of modern HVAC entrepreneurship. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction [03:17] – Introducing Jay Stahlberg [04:17] – Jay’s journey into HVAC and heat pumps [09:56] – Marketing, branding, and LinkedIn success stories [15:36] – Why the company is called Baystate Energy Services [17:58] – Building the business from scratch [26:32] – Understanding Mass Save and home performance contractors [28:40] – The vision for the showroom and future growth [31:12] – The hunger for knowledge and professional development [35:10] – The next phase: systems, service, and scaling [39:21] – Advice for new contractors and entrepreneurs [45:11] – What Jay hopes comes next Follow Jason Stahlberg :
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| #61 The Equipment Isn't the System: David Richardson on High-Performance HVAC | 08 Jul 2026 | 00:59:30 | |
Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool. 👉 https://bit.ly/heatpump-manual-s-free-tool If you’re enjoying the Heat Pump Podcast and getting value from conversations like this one, please take a few seconds to leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen. ------------------------------------------------- What separates an average HVAC installation from a truly high-performing system? In this episode, David Richardson joins the Heat Pump Podcast to explore the principles behind high-performance HVAC. The conversation covers everything from airflow and static pressure to building science, duct system performance, heat pump design, and homeowner communication. David Richardson is Vice President of Training at the National Comfort Institute (NCI) and one of the most respected educators in the HVAC industry. With decades of field experience, David has helped thousands of contractors improve system performance through measurement, testing, and verification. Expect to Learn:
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction to the Episode [01:57] – David Richardson's HVAC Journey [07:42] – Leaving the Family Business for NCI [10:39] – What Does "High-Performance HVAC" Really Mean? [16:07] – The 57% Problem [20:05] – The PATH Framework [26:27] – Why Contractors Skip the Fundamentals [28:57] – Data Discernment vs. Data Drowning [33:23] – Applying High-Performance Principles to Heat Pumps [41:12] – Having Difficult Sizing Conversations [46:43] – Solving the Mystery of the Dusty House [52:23] – Ductless Heat Pumps and High-Performance Contracting [58:05] – Where to Learn More Follow David Richardson:
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| #60 Designing Heat Pump Systems That Won't Come Back to Haunt You, with Eric Fitz | 01 Jul 2026 | 01:21:13 | |
Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool - the same systematic approach that helps contractors get sizing right the first time. 👉 https://bit.ly/heatpump-manual-s-free-tool ------------------------------------------------- Heat pumps fail homes for one reason more than any other: someone guessed instead of measured. In this episode, Amply co-founder and co-CEO Eric Fitz shares his complete heat pump sizing playbook in a talk recorded at the Building Performance Association's annual conference in Columbus. Eric is a mechanical engineer and a self-described Manual J nerd, and he takes you through the whole chain of system design: how Manual J defines what the home needs, why duct capacity is its own separate check that can make or break a retrofit, and how Manual S picks the right equipment. Along the way he shares the quick field tricks that remove the guesswork — the ten-second flashlight test for low-E glass, the $3 tool for checking wall insulation, and why a thicker filter actually fixes high static pressure. You'll also hear plenty of audience Q&A from the room. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00:00] - Episode Teaser [00:04:06] - Heat Pump Design Fundamentals and the ACCA Design Process [00:07:27] - Understanding Load Drivers: Temperature, Windows, and Infiltration [00:14:02] - Window Performance, Low-E Glass, and Shading Effects [00:20:11] - Verifying Insulation and Building Envelope Conditions [00:26:26] - Duct Leakage, Static Pressure, and Measuring Airflow [00:44:48] - Heat Pump Performance Data Explained [00:52:57] - Manual S Sizing Rules and Heat Pump Selection [01:11:07] - Balancing Comfort, Efficiency, Auxiliary Heat, and Real-World Constraints [01:17:05] - There Is No Perfect Heat Pump: Making the Best Choice [01:19:37] - Closing Remarks Follow the Hosts:
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| #59 Everybody Recommends “A Guy”: How Paul Bojko Turned Being Different Into a Chicago Heat Pump Business | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:48:06 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, host Ed Smith sits down with Paul Bojko, owner of A-Guy Heating & Air, to explore what it really takes to build and scale a heat pump–focused HVAC business. Paul shares his journey from military service and mechanical work to launching his own company and ultimately specializing in ductless heat pump systems. He breaks down how focusing on a niche, investing in branding, and embracing non-traditional marketing strategies helped transform his business. The conversation dives into the realities of running an HVAC company, from early struggles and burnout to building a team, improving processes, and shifting from technician to business owner. Paul also explains why proper system design and load calculations are critical, and how many contractors still get it wrong. They also explore how content creation, social media, and even radio partnerships are becoming powerful tools for growth in today’s HVAC landscape. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Introduction to the Episode [02:02] – Paul Bojko’s background [07:45] – Transition into HVAC and discovering ductless systems [11:09] – Mentorship, training, and early business insights [14:37] – Key changes that drove business growth [17:38] – Marketing strategies and standing out in HVAC [26:36] – Hiring Through Education [30:10] – Content creation and building a modern brand [34:04] – System design, load calculations, and customer education [45:14] – Advice for Contractors and Future Heat Pump Specialists Follow Paul Bojko:
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| #58 A Truly Differentiated Heat Pump — with Dr. Jane Melia of Harvest Thermal | 10 Jun 2026 | 00:47:13 | |
🎓Join Eric Fitz's latest training: How to Design a Heat Pump System That Will Not Come Back to Haunt You
What he'll cover:
------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with Dr. Jane Melia, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Harvest Thermal, to explore a new approach to home electrification: combining high-efficiency heat pumps with smart thermal storage. As electrification accelerates, heating and hot water, which account for the majority of a home’s energy use, are becoming central to the conversation about grid flexibility, energy costs, and system performance. Jane shares how Harvest’s “smart thermal battery” system shifts energy use to the most efficient and affordable times, helping homeowners lower bills while reducing strain on the electrical grid. The conversation also dives into how this technology emerged from Jane’s own home retrofit, the role contractors play in scaling innovative solutions, and why load shifting may become one of the most important strategies in the future of residential HVAC. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Episode teaser: Rethinking home energy use and load shifting [03:36] – Meet Dr. Jane Melia and the story behind Harvest Thermal [08:17] – The problem with traditional heating systems and energy timing [09:38] – What a “smart thermal battery” actually does [13:04] – How load shifting benefits homeowners and the electrical grid [15:05] – Real-world performance: lowering bills while electrifying homes [22:57] – Why contractors are key to scaling new HVAC technologies [42:05] – The future of grid-aware heating and home energy systems [44:53] – A key resource for contractors growing a heat pump business Follow Jane Melia:
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| #57 An Outsider's Unsparing Look at Heat Pump Pricing — with Kit Wu and Hannan Rhodes | 29 May 2026 | 00:44:30 | |
🎓Join Eric Fitz's latest training: How to Design a Heat Pump System That Will Not Come Back to Haunt You
What he'll cover:
---------------------------------------------------------- Kit Wu and Hannan Rhodes came from outside the HVAC industry, gathered dozens of real heat pump quotes for the same house, and published the results. In this episode, they break down where installation dollars actually go, what PE consolidation means for homeowners shopping for quotes, and why the best contractors are often the worst at communicating their value. Expect to Learn:
Timestamps: [00:00] – Episode Teaser [03:02] – Introduction to Laminar Collective and Manatee Energy [04:44] – The Story Behind Laminar Collective and Manatee Energy [07:46] – Insights from Heat Pump Pricing Research [13:28] – Reddit Reactions, Contractor Pushback & Homeowner Transparency [18:11] – Transparency Matters More Than Low Prices [31:34] – Why They Started Manatee Energy [33:17] – Overcoming the Challenges of Heat Pump Installations [37:04] – The Future of HVAC: Remote Diagnostics & Smarter Systems [40:22] – What’s Next for Laminar Collective & Manatee Energy Follow Kit Wu & Hannan Rhodes:
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| #56 What Heat Pump Commissioning Actually Looks Like — and Where It Gets Hard, with Wes Davis and Brian Feenie | 13 May 2026 | 01:00:16 | |
Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool - the same systematic approach that helps contractors get sizing right the first time. 👉 https://bit.ly/heatpump-manual-s-free-tool ------------------------------------------------- Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz are joined by Wes Davis, Director of Technical Services, and Brian Feenie, President of Shift Logic and Chief Encouragement Officer of ACCA QI, to discuss the critical yet often overlooked process of heat pump commissioning. They dive into the importance of doing it right from the start, the challenges faced by contractors in the field, and how using the right tools can ensure long-term performance and customer satisfaction. The conversation also covers best practices, tools for verification, and how to avoid costly callbacks. Wes Davis is the Director of Technical Services at ACCA and has years of experience working in HVAC and heat pump systems, focusing on proper installation and commissioning. Brian Feenie is the President of Shift Logic, Chief Encouragement Officer of ACCA QI, and a leader in HVAC business development, committed to promoting the use of diagnostic tools and quality commissioning. Expect to Learn:
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| #55 A Shot Across the Bow of the Entire HVAC Supply Chain — Stephen Lake of Jetson | 29 Apr 2026 | 01:01:15 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------------------------- Stephen Lake, CEO of Jetson, is quoting whole-home heat pump installs at 30–50% below competitive prices — and he has closed-loop performance data from over a thousand installs to back up every claim. In this conversation, we unpack how Jetson's vertically integrated model works, why Stephen thinks Manual J overstates heat loads by 30–40%, and what every layer of the HVAC supply chain should take from a company that just raised $60M to scale nationally. A shot across the bow of the entire HVAC industry. Expect to Learn:
Timestamps: [00:00] – Episode Teaser [05:20] – What Jetson Actually Is (Not a Typical HVAC Company) [07:28] – Stephen’s Background: From AR Startup to Climate Tech [12:49] – The Real Problem: Cost and Friction in Buying Heat Pumps [19:15] – The Jetson Experience: 2-Minute Quote to 1-Day Install [23:58] – Closed-Loop Data: The Advantage Nobody Else Has [25:09] – The Oversizing Problem (And Why Duct Issues Are Misdiagnosed) [32:00] – Why Manual J Gets It Wrong [44:40] – Why Jetson Is 30–50% Cheaper [49:43] – The Bigger Mission: Electrification and Urgency [55:54] – Industry Impact & What Comes Next Follow Stephen Lake:
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| #54 Everyone Said It Would Fail - Lessons from Heat Pump Pioneer Sarah Moscatello | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:51:35 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------ In this episode, host Ed Smith sits down with Sarah Moscatello, owner and general manager of The Heat Pump Store, to talk about what it really takes to build and grow a successful heat pump-focused HVAC business.This conversation takes us through Sarah’s path from the corporate world to co-founding one of the first businesses in the U.S. built entirely around heat pumps. As electrification picks up and more contractors enter the field, Sarah talks about what it really takes to stay true to your mission, build a strong, values-driven team, and lead a company with heart and purpose. Sarah Moscatello leads one of the most respected heat pump contractors in the country. With over 20,000 installs, locations in Oregon and Colorado, and 15+ years in the business, her story is a masterclass in how to grow without compromising on quality, trust, or mission. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Episode Teaser [02:25] – Meet Sarah Moscatello & The Heat Pump Store Origin Story [09:02] – Jan Pratt: Sales Legend With a Servant’s Heart [10:47] – Sarah’s Journey from Corporate to Contractor [13:13] – Balancing Marriage, Family & Business Ownership [19:25] – Staying Pure: Why They Focus Only on Heat Pumps [25:30] – Expansion to Colorado: Business Meets Family [29:53] – Training From Scratch: The Apprentice Model That Works [32:40] – Making the Job “Fun” Again: Growth, Teams & Profits [38:05] – Rebates Are Not the Business Model (But They Help) [41:51] – Building a Sales Team Based on Trust, Not Hard Sell [48:00] – Final Thoughts & Advice to New Entrepreneurs Follow Sarah Moscatello:
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| #53 Top 10 Manual J Lessons from Hundreds of Contractor Onboardings, with Eric Fitz | 08 Apr 2026 | 01:03:10 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------ If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ---------------------------------------------------------- This episode of the Heat Pump Podcast looks into Manual J load calculations, a foundational concept in HVAC system design. The discussion explores why proper load calculations matter, how they impact comfort, system sizing, and business outcomes, and why many contractors struggle with adopting them. Hosts Eric and Ed break down common misconceptions, compare traditional shortcuts (like rule-of-thumb sizing), and explain how integrating building science into the sales process can transform both customer trust and company performance. Through hands-on work with contractors and analyzing real-world Manual J applications, the hosts bring practical insights into how contractors can improve system sizing, streamline workflows, and deliver better outcomes for homeowners. Expect to Learn
The Resources Mentioned:
Timestamps [00:00] – Episode Teaser [03:05] – 1. Why does Manual J matter to your business? [04:20] – 2. What isn't Manual J? [06:13] – 3. How does Manual J change your sales process? [10:14] – 4. What's the biggest surprise for contractors switching from a "like-for-like" approach? [21:36] – 5. Why do contractors second-guess their first load calculations? [28:13] – 6. What are the most common Manual J input mistakes? [44:51] – 7. What does a best-in-class sales process look like? [52:03] – 8. What changes should contractors expect when they start doing load calculations? [55:03] – 9. How do you convince a homeowner your load calc is right when a competitor quoted bigger? [58:43] – 10. What are the benefits of making Manual J fundamental to your sales and design process? Follow the Hosts:
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| #52 Behind Enemy Lines: Why Chris Morin Trains Building Inspectors (and What It Means for Your Business) | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:59:08 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist Go a click deeper with Chris Morin’s 15-Point HVAC System Design Audit to uncover gaps in your process and unlock greater efficiency. ------------------------------ If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ---------------------------------------------------------- Chris Morin is the founder of HVAC Pro Blog, an ACCA system design instructor, and one of the few people in the industry who trains both contractors and building inspectors. In this episode, he makes a compelling case for why aggressive load calculations, code compliance, and building inspector relationships aren't just good building science — they're how you grow a more profitable business. We also dig into duct design fundamentals, the oversizing trap, and why "I never get callbacks" is the most dangerous metric in HVAC. Expect to Learn
Timestamps [00:00] – Episode Teaser [02:26] – Meet Chris Morin: Marine Vet to HVAC Pro [07:25] – Lessons from Utility Programs: Good vs. Bad Contractors [16:13] – Why Most Contractors Are Failing at Load Calcs [22:17] – The Danger of “No Callback = Success” [25:04] – Ductless Oversizing: A Growing Problem [28:57] – Manual D and the Realities of Duct Design [38:41] – Behind the Code: Working With Building Inspectors [47:06] – Contractor vs. Inspector: Building a Municipal Monopoly [50:38] – Design = Profit: Turning Standards into Sales [53:34] – Free Resources & Chris’s Masterclass Follow Chris Morin:
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| #51 You Be the Biggest. I'll Be the Best. Scott Libby's Blueprint for a Heat Pump Business Worth Building. | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:58:48 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ---------------------------------------------------------- Scott Libby built Royal River Heat Pumps by doing the opposite of almost everything the industry recommends — one brand, one geography, no emergency calls, no private equity, and a 10-week waiting list. In this episode, Scott walks through his full playbook: how he identified his ideal customer, why he designed his sales process around a two-person site visit, and what he tells contractors who want to copy what he's built. If you've ever wondered whether you can win on quality alone, Scott is the proof. Expect to Learn:
Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction & Warm-up [02:32] – Scott’s Background and Career Journey [03:48] – Quitting His Job & Betting on Heat Pumps [09:36] – Building Royal River from a Pickup Truck [12:29] – Systems Thinking & Standard Operating Procedures [17:02] – Leaving Money on The Table [26:48] – Competing on Quality (Not Price) [31:29] – The Two-Person Sales Process & Amply Load Calculations [43:39] – The Training Process at Royal River [54:21] – Advice for Contractors Wanting to Make the Shift Follow Scott Libby:
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| #50 What Winning Contractors Do Differently – Stop Competing on Price and Build Real Trust | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:55:17 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Download our Trust Checklist and see exactly how top HVAC companies build authority and close higher-quality deals. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-trust-checklist ------------------------------------------------- If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ------------------------------------------------- Competition in HVAC is fiercer than ever — Stan in a Van, private equity roll-ups, and VC-backed startups that can generate a quote in 90 seconds. If you don't have a clear answer for why you're different, price becomes the only signal left. In this episode, Ed Smith (co-founder of Amply Energy) breaks down the Heat Pump Business Model Matrix — four ways to compete as a contractor — and the Trust Checklist: a practical framework for winning on expertise and process instead of price. You'll hear real stories from incredible contractors who've built businesses that don't need to be the cheapest in the room. Key Learnings:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction & Warm-up [03:01] - Ed’s Journey with Amply [07:48] - Competing Beyond Price [09:06] - Expertise and Process [16:20] - The Trust Checklist [17:25] - Case Studies and Best Practices [26:49] - Ideal Customer and Marketing [32:11] - Demo Website with Energy Circle [36:28] - Slowing Down the Sales Process [43:07] - The Importance of Charging for Expertise [52:07] - Closing Remarks Follow Katie Miller and BPA:
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| #49 Hey Ed: 35 Years of HVAC Wisdom with Ed Janowiak | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:52:28 | |
If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ------------------------------------------------- If you've ever had a question about Manual J, Manual S, or heat pump sizing, there's a good chance the answer ends with "and that's the way I see it." Ed Janowiak is ACCA's Manager of HVAC Design Education, host of the legendary "Hey Ed" video series, and one of the most influential voices in HVAC system design. With 35 years in the trade — from installer to contractor to trainer — Ed has probably taught more contractors how to do HVAC design right than anyone in America. In this episode, we flip the script and ask Ed the hard questions: Why do so many contractors skip load calculations? What's the most common Manual J mistake? And why does oversizing heat pumps for heating loads keep him up at night? Ed doesn't hold back. He explains why "ballparking" system design is the same as accepting a ballpark payment, shares his non-negotiable line on latent performance ("you're dead to me"), and delivers a warning about the mold crisis heading for cold climate markets. Whether you're new to heat pumps or a seasoned pro, this conversation will sharpen how you think about system design. Key Topics
Timestamps: [00:00] - Episode Teaser [02:34] - Introduction to guest, Ed Janowiak [05:56] - Ed talks about his journey into HVAC design and education [10:52] - Discussing heat pump sizing and the impact on comfort [14:15] - Ed’s perspective on airflow and its importance in system performance [17:28] - Common mistakes HVAC contractors make [23:19] - Manual J and heat pump sizing considerations [28:27] - Ed explains common misconceptions about Manual J for heating [30:38] - Properly sizing heat pumps and using auxiliary heat [42:01] - Insights on technical committees and the importance of industry standards [46:08] - The importance of Manual T for proper fan pressure and airflow [49:37] - Closing remarks and key takeaways from the discussion Follow Ed Janowiak:
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| #48 A blueprint for your website, with Peter Troast | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:44:53 | |
Want a sharper, more effective website? From clearer messaging to smarter layout decisions — If you’ve ever felt your website could be doing more work for you, this is worth a look. 👉 Visit the demo site here: https://demo.energycircle.com/ ------------------------------------------------- If you’re serious about doing better work and staying ahead in high-performance contracting, the BPA National Home Performance Conference is the place to be. It’s happening April 13 – 16 in Columbus, Ohio, and it’s built around real lessons, practical strategies, and ideas you can actually use back on the job. Use the discount code NHPC-HPP to save on registration. 👉 Register here: http://nhpc26.org/amply ------------------------------------------------- In this episode of Heat Pump Podcast, host Ed Smith sits down with Peter Troast, Founder & CEO of Energy Circle, for a thorough analysis into one of the biggest challenges facing high-performance HVAC and home performance contractors today: how to clearly communicate their value to homeowners — before the first visit. The conversation centers on a demonstration contractor website that Energy Circle and Amply built together as a “best-in-class” example for the industry. Rather than focusing on equipment or jargon, the site is designed to educate homeowners, filter for the right-fit customers, and showcase a diagnostic, process-driven approach that differentiates high-performance contractors from traditional “box-swap” HVAC companies. Key Learnings:
Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction [03:56] – The "homeowners just don't know" problem [08:22] – The homepage headline: We Listen. We Measure. We Fix. We Prove. [12:57] – Is River City a good fit? Filtering customers on purpose [19:48] – The Us vs. Them comparison chart [26:50] – Testimonials that reinforce differentiation [30:48] – Problems We Solve vs. Services navigation [34:22] – The Our Process page [37:05] – The About Us page and founder story [41:28] – How to apply this to your own website Follow Peter Troast:
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| #47 3 Startup CEOs on the Future of the Heat Pump Business Model | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:49:07 | |
Join us for our upcoming training! STOP COMPETING ON PRICE. WIN ON TRUST. Too many contractors are stuck in a race to the bottom. The best ones aren't. The difference? A systematic approach to winning on trust. Join us on Thursday, February 5th at 2pm ET for a live training with the Building Performance Association where we'll share our framework for building a standout business with healthy margins. 👉 Register here: https://info.amply.energy/bpa-win-on-trust-webinar ------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, host Ed Smith, co-founder of Amply Energy , is joined by three innovators in the HVAC and heat pump space at the US Heat Pump Summit. Mark Kasdorf (Forge), Grant Gunnison (Zero Homes), and Evan Anderson (Pearl Edison) share their unique business models and approaches to accelerating the adoption of heat pumps. Guest Introductions:
Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [03:44] – Introduction To The Panelists [06:44] – Discussing Challenges And Their Solutions In The Hvac Industry [14:20] – How Each Company Uses Technology To Improve Processes [23:37] – Sales Process And Customer Engagement [26:55] – Lead Qualification To Closing The Deal [32:29] – Scaling The Businesses, and Conversion Rate Success [39:04] – Discussion On Financing Options And Their Impact On Affordability [47:17] – Closing Thoughts: Reflections On Electrification And The Future Of The Market Connect with the Guests: Mark Kasdorf
Grant Gunnison
Evan Anderson
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| #46 What It Takes to Scale Heat Pumps: A Roundtable with Carrier, Daikin, and LG | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:59:15 | |
Like what you heard in this episode? We're doing a live training on exactly this. STOP COMPETING ON PRICE. WIN ON TRUST. Too many contractors are stuck in a race to the bottom. The best ones aren't. The difference? A systematic approach to winning on trust. Join us on Thursday, February 5th at 2 PM ET for a live training with the Building Performance Association where we'll share our framework for building a standout business with healthy margins. 👉 Register here: https://info.amply.energy/bpa-win-on-trust-webinar ------------------------------------------------- What does it actually take to install millions of heat pumps? We asked the people who would know. Lindsey Dorman (Carrier), Kevin DeMaster (LG), and Jonathan Moscatello (Daikin) work with utilities and rebate programs across the country. Their job: make heat pump adoption actually work for contractors, homeowners, and the grid. We cover quality vs. volume tensions in rebate programs, the future of connected commissioning, why equipment data is still too hard to access, and what each would change with a magic wand. This is the behind-the-scenes view of heat pump programs most contractors never see. Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction to the Episode [04:20] - Meet the Guests [05:13] - What Do You All Do? Guest Roles Explained [11:19] - Where Heat Pumps Are Thriving and Where They're Fragile [19:18] - What Makes a Good Utility Partner? [24:54] - Tackling Heat Pump Incentive Abuse [32:02] - Connected Commissioning: The Next Evolution [37:32] - Data, Diagnostics & Manufacturer Feedback [43:30] - The Case for Better Equipment Data Access [51:12] - Magic Wand Question: One Change to Accelerate Adoption [56:52] - Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up Connect with the Guests: Lindsey Dorman
Jonathan Moscatello
Kevin DeMaster
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| #45 How to Win on Trust: A Step-by-Step Heat Pump Sales Masterclass with Paul McHugh | 08 Jan 2026 | 01:06:30 | |
Like what you heard in this episode? We're doing a live training on exactly this. STOP COMPETING ON PRICE. WIN ON TRUST. Too many contractors are stuck in a race to the bottom. The best ones aren't. The difference? A systematic approach to winning on trust. Join us on Thursday, February 5th at 2pm ET for a live training with the Building Performance Association where we'll share our framework for building a standout business with healthy margins. 👉 Register here: https://info.amply.energy/bpa-win-on-trust-webinar ------------------------------------------------- Paul McHugh has been in HVAC for 35 years and handles 350 installs per year at Ray O. Cook Heating and Air in California. In this episode, he walks us through his complete 8-step sales process—from first contact through commissioning—including the $200 video he sends customers before every appointment. What we cover:
Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction to the Episode [03:11] – Paul's Career and Industry Evolution [08:47] – Defining the Core Problem [10:40] – How the Process Was Developed [19:03] – The Comfort Survey: Understanding the Homeowner [25:00] – Leveraging Technology and Customer Education [30:10] – Initial Appointment: Setting the Stage [36:34] – Load Calculation and Air Leakage Detection [47:55] – Diagnosing Room-Level Comfort Issues [55:52] – Equipment Selection Using Extended Performance Data [01:02:31] – Commissioning and Final Thoughts Follow Paul McHugh:
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| #44 Test, Don't Guess – How Mitch Bailey Built a Profitable HVAC Business Without Chasing Every Lead | 24 Dec 2025 | 01:01:42 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Start with our Trust Checklist to see if your business is doing the things that truly set you apart. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-business-model-matrix Then, head to our latest article to learn how the top contractors protect their margins and stay competitive. 👉 http://info.amply.energy/blog/win-on-trust-the-heat-pump-business-model-matrix ------------------------------------------------- When leads are scarce, most HVAC contractors chase everything. Mitch Bailey does the opposite—and it's working. The second-generation owner of Bailey's Air Heroes downsized from 50 employees to 12, turns down work that doesn't fit, and built a $3M business around one principle: test, don't guess. Mitch just won the 2024 Jim Davis Technical Excellence Award from NCI. He trains contractors across California. And he's all-in on heat pumps—even when the economics are tricky. In this episode, we dig into: → Why he refused to budge $5 for a builder (and got fired for it) → How he shifted from 3-6% margins to 30% by switching to “retail work” → His "$2 high-tech selling tool" that closes engineer customers → The balance point COP spreadsheet that shows when heat pumps pencil out → Why he trains his competition (and why it's strategic) → His advice: start with load calculations and static pressure testing If you're wondering how to build a sustainable HVAC business without burning out, this one's for you. Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [02:44] - Mitch’s Early HVAC Roots [04:21] - Learning Through Experience & California’s Training Programs [07:25] - Taking Over the Business & Embracing Technology [19:49] - Transitioning from New Construction to Retrofit Work [26:37] - Lessons from New Construction: Don’t Compete on Price [33:47] - High-Performance Contracting in Practice [44:13] - Economics of Heat Pumps vs Gas Furnaces [55:45] - Advice for Contractors: Where to Start with Performance Work Follow Mitchell Bailey:
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| #43 Manual J vs. Utility Bills: A Sizing Debate with Nate Adams, Alex Meaney, and Eric Fitz | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:58:09 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Start with our Trust Checklist to see if your business is doing the things that truly set you apart. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-business-model-matrix Then, head to our latest article to learn how the top contractors protect their margins and stay competitive. 👉 http://info.amply.energy/blog/win-on-trust-the-heat-pump-business-model-matrix ------------------------------------------------ Live from the U.S. Heat Pump Summit, the panel explores one of the most debated topics in the heat pump industry — real-world energy data versus modeled load calculations. With growing demand for heat pump adoption and improving installation practices, understanding how best to size systems is more critical than ever. Moderated by Ross Trethewey, the session brings together three leading voices in building science and HVAC system design: Alex Meaney, Nate Adams, and Eric Fitz. Together, they debate the merits and limitations of load calculation methods—from the precision of Manual J to the practicality of energy bills and the gut-check of contractor “rules of thumb.” It's an honest, unscripted, and high-energy conversation aimed at bridging the gap between building science nerds and real-world contractors. Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Episode Teaser [02:17] - Intro by Ross Trethewey & guest intros [03:22] - Nate on sizing via utility bills: "I can do it in 2 minutes" [05:10] - Bridging the Adoption Gap [09:16] - Alex defends Manual J: “It’s not that hard if you know your stuff” [12:14] - How to assess infiltration without a blower door [25:21] - Eric breaks down regression modeling using heating degree days [34:36] - The Role of Human Behavior & Assumptions [40:05] - The danger of outliers & the limits of AI-driven sizing tools [52:51] - Triangulation: why using multiple methods is key [59:06] - Final thoughts: pick a method, stick with it, and build your feedback loop Connect with the Guests: Alex Meaney
Nate Adams
Ross Trethewey
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| #42 Make It Hard to Buy: How Larry Waters Broke the Standard HVAC Business Playbook | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:46:20 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Check out our latest article, and see how leading installers are transforming their business models. 👉 https://bit.ly/the-heatpump-business-model-matrix ------------------------------------------------ In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz explore how to build a mission-driven, customer-focused HVAC company in the electrification space. They speak with Larry Waters and Alex Sloan of Electrify My Home, a California-based company known for their holistic, tech-forward approach to heat pump installations and customer service. With nearly 1,000 installs in just four years, their journey offers insights on scaling a sustainable business while training the next wave of electrification professionals. Larry Waters, President of Electrify My Home, brings over 40 years of HVAC experience and has been a long-time advocate for building science and decarbonization. Alex Sloan, VP of Business Operations and Development, joined the company after being a customer and brings a background in energy efficiency program implementation and systems thinking. Together, they’ve turned Electrify My Home into a regional leader and educator in home electrification. Key Takeaways: Electrify My Home's model works because every counterintuitive decision reinforces the others:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Episode Teaser [02:07] - Meet Larry Waters & Alex Sloan [07:08] - From Customer to VP: Alex's Journey [10:56] - Customer Journey and Process [18:25] - Knowing Your Ideal Customer [22:25] - Virtual Pricing and Real-World Design [27:05] - Growing the Business While Staying True to Their Core Values [32:04] - Offering Comprehensive Electrification Solutions [36:59] - Why Electrify My Home is Training Other Contractors for Success [42:13] - Electrifying 100,000 Homes by 2035: The Big Goal [43:18] - Final Advice for Contractors Follow Larry Waters: Follow Alex Sloan:
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| #41 The "Uber of Heat Pumps" — DR Richardson on Building Elephant Energy | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:49:16 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Check out our latest article, and see how leading installers are transforming their business models. https://info.amply.energy/blog/win-on-trust-the-heat-pump-business-model-matrix Join the best heat pump contractors at the US Heat Pump Summit November 18-19, 2025 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA The annual gathering of top contractors advancing their work with heat pumps. Get world-class business and technical training from industry leaders, plus direct access to regulators, rebate providers, and energy experts shaping the future of our industry. Get 10% off registration with code AMPLY https://bit.ly/us-heatpump-summit ------------------------------------------------ When DR Richardson tried to install a heat pump in his Boulder townhome, the experience was a disaster. Finding rebates, sizing equipment, vetting contractors — every step was harder than it should be. That frustration led him to co-found Elephant Energy, a tech-enabled platform now operating in Colorado, Massachusetts, and Los Angeles that's redefining how homeowners get heat pumps installed. Elephant's model is straightforward: they own the customer relationship, handle all the sales and rebate complexity, then partner with vetted contractors who show up, install, and get paid quickly. For contractors, it means consistent work with better margins but giving up customer ownership. DR calls it "the Uber of heat pumps" — a comparison that raises an important question: Is this solving contractor problems or creating a new kind of competitor? In this episode, DR walks through Elephant's entire process — from the 60-second online quote to contractor partnerships to managing the nightmare of multi-state rebate programs. We dig into the economics, the quality assurance challenges, and what this model means for the future of heat pump installation. Whether you see Elephant as friend or foe, their approach reveals what problems homeowners and contractors are actually facing — and forces the question of who should solve them. Key topics: tech-enabled HVAC platforms, contractor partnerships, rebate management, the future of home electrification, and whether heat pump installation is fundamentally a craft business or a logistics problem. Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Episode Teaser [03:18] - Introducing DR Richardson & Elephant Energy [04:08] - Founding Elephant Energy: The Opportunity & Vision [09:10] - Building a Seamless Customer Journey [14:13] - The Digital Experience & Quote Process [17:46] - Contractor Partnerships & Operational Excellence [27:26] - How Contractors Make Money with Elephant [33:13] - The Role and Challenges of Rebates [44:33] - The Future of Elephant Energy [48:33] - Recommended Resources & Closing Thoughts Follow DR Richardson:
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| #40 Rolls-Royce Work at Rolls-Royce Prices: Tim De Stasio's Blueprint for High-Performance HVAC | 29 Oct 2025 | 01:11:22 | |
Want to win on trust, not price? Check out our latest article. https://info.amply.energy/blog/win-on-trust-the-heat-pump-business-model-matrix Join the best heat pump contractors at the US Heat Pump Summit November 18-19, 2025 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA Get 10% off registration with code AMPLY https://bit.ly/us-heatpump-summit ---------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, Ed Smith and Eric Fitz welcome industry veteran Tim De Stasio to explore the evolution and future of HVAC, with a special focus on heat pumps and whole-home performance evaluations. From the technical nuances of equipment sizing and commissioning to actionable strategies for scaling home performance businesses, this episode offers an expansive view of what HVAC excellence looks like today and where it's headed. Tim De Stasio is a seasoned HVAC professional with over 25 years in the industry. Having worked as a technician, contractor, and now a highly respected consultant and trainer, Tim recently won the 2025 HVAC Tactical Awards “Mentor of the Year.” Key Learnings:
Timestamps: [00:03:12] – Tim’s Journey into HVAC [00:12:57] – Technician to Business Owner to Educator [00:18:47] – Why Heat Pumps Are the Future [00:21:55] – The 60-Point Evaluation Process [00:29:32] – Home as a System: Comfort Consultation Workflow [00:46:05] – Scaling Ethical Home Performance Services [00:51:10] – Common Heat Pump Installation & Design Mistakes [01:05:55] – Final Thoughts and Resources Follow Tim:
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| #39 Low Overhead and Infinite Scalability: Mike Townsend's Blueprint for the Next Generation of Heat Pump Contractors | 15 Oct 2025 | 01:04:26 | |
Join the best heat pump contractors at the US Heat Pump Summit November 18-19, 2025 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA The annual gathering of top contractors advancing their work with heat pumps. Get world-class business and technical training from industry leaders, plus direct access to regulators, rebate providers, and energy experts shaping the future of our industry. Get 10% off registration with code AMPLY https://bit.ly/us-heatpump-summit ----------------------------------------------- Most HVAC companies grow by adding people, overhead, and complexity. But what if you could grow faster, more profitably, and with fewer people? In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, HVAC entrepreneur Mike Townsend breaks down how he's rethinking the entire HVAC business model — ditching traditional back office roles, leaning into AI, and focusing 100% on high-efficiency heat pumps. With just 10 field staff and no dedicated office, his new venture, Veteran Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, hit $600K in sales in its first six weeks. This is a masterclass in lean, scalable business design for modern HVAC contractors. Mike Townsend is a U.S. Army veteran and seasoned HVAC entrepreneur with 30 years of experience. After scaling his previous company to $15 million before selling to private equity, he’s now starting over—with a leaner, AI-driven business model that challenges industry norms. His deep operational insight and hard-earned lessons make him a must-listen for anyone in the trades. Expect to Learn:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Episode Teaser [02:35] - Meet Mike Townsend: Army Veteran to HVAC Entrepreneur [06:08] - Founding His First Company and Learning the Hard Lessons [17:08] - The Corporate Stagnation That Sparked Innovation [26:05] - Building the New Model: AI-driven, Fully Outsourced Operations [41:20] - $600K in 6 Weeks: What’s Working and Why [47:37] - Why Mike Only Sells Heat Pumps and How He Closes the Deal [51:36] - Using AI & Amply for Precise System Design [56:15] - Resource List: Tools, Vendors, and Hiring Secrets [59:34] - Final Thoughts The Resources and Vendors That Make It Work: For contractors interested in Mike’s approach, here’s his go-to vendor stack:
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| #38 Flipping Heat Pump Economics with Zero Homes | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:44:37 | |
Want to build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 Zero Homes is on the rise — and they’re hiring! Explore exciting career opportunities on their hiring board: https://jobs.lever.co/zerohomes Contractors, this is your chance to partner with a fast-growing, innovative company. Learn how you can join the Zero Homes contractor network today: https://www.zerohomes.io/contractors Join the best heat pump contractors at the US Heat Pump Summit November 18-19, 2025 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA The annual gathering of top contractors advancing their work with heat pumps. Get world-class business and technical training from industry leaders, plus direct access to regulators, rebate providers, and energy experts shaping the future of our industry. Get 10% off registration with code AMPLY https://bit.ly/us-heatpump-summit ---------------------------------------------- Guest: Grant Gunnison, CEO of Zero Homes Grant Gunnison learned the brutal economics of contracting the hard way — at age 23, after his father's death, he dropped out of grad school to run the family business with 18 employees, no price book, and a filing system of manila folders. What frustrated him most was that customer acquisition consumed 25% of revenue, with contractors spending hours in trucks driving between appointments. But the real revelation came when he discovered why contractors avoid heat pumps: designing a furnace takes "about five seconds" while heat pump systems require "three hours" with no guarantee of winning the job. This $500 design cost systematically discourages heat pump installations in favor of simple changeouts. Zero Homes eliminates this problem by removing site visits entirely. Homeowners use their smartphone for 20 minutes to create a digital twin of their home, enabling remote heat pump system design and quoting. The Department of Energy validated this approach as "just as accurate as sending a person into the home" with better consistency than manual assessments. The model completely inverts traditional contractor economics: instead of making money on equipment margins while absorbing design time risk, contractors receive install-ready jobs and get paid $180-200/hour for labor. The approach creates unexpected opportunities, particularly in rural markets where contractors typically can't justify long drives to bid jobs. Quality control remains rigorous through 30-40 item commissioning checklists and live video calls for initial installations. Key Takeaways
Timestamps: [02:14] - Overview of Zero Homes [04:54] - Why Heat Pumps? [11:41] - Building a Marketplace for Home Electrification [15:10] - The Homeowner Journey [17:58] - Contractor Economics: Making it Work for Everyone [29:35] - Quality Control & Design Process [35:56] - The Risks & Rewards of Partnering with Zero Homes [43:05] - Advice for HVAC Entrepreneurs Follow Grant Gunnison:
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| #37 What 10 Years of Monitoring Heat Pumps Taught Nate Adams About Proper HVAC Sizing | 17 Sep 2025 | 01:04:04 | |
Want to build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 ---------------------------------------------------------- Join the best heat pump contractors at the US Heat Pump Summit November 18-19, 2025 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA The annual gathering of top contractors advancing their work with heat pumps. Get world-class business and technical training from industry leaders, plus direct access to regulators, rebate providers, and energy experts shaping the future of our industry. Get 10% off registration with code AMPLY https://bit.ly/us-heatpump-summit ---------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz are joined by Nate Adams, a renowned expert in building science and home performance. Known as the "House Whisperer," Nate brings years of experience in optimizing HVAC systems to improve comfort and energy efficiency. He shares his perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the field of electrification for residential homes. The conversation centers around practical approaches to sizing HVAC systems, the importance of feedback loops for understanding system performance, and the role of electrification in creating more sustainable and comfortable homes. Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction to Nate Adams [03:34] - The House Whisperer's Approach [06:14] - Nate's HVAC Career Path [12:46] - Electrification and Heat Pumps [17:57] - The Debate on Heat Pumps and Furnaces [21:34] - The Misconception of Manual J [24:53] - Understanding Manual J Calculations [32:23] - Feedback Loops for Better Comfort [36:34] - Aggressive Sizing for Comfort [45:28] - The Challenge of Scaling HVAC Solutions [57:00] - Closing Thoughts Follow Nate Adams:
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| #36 Design, Diligence, and Differentiation: Lessons from Shawn LeMons | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:46:58 | |
Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool—the same systematic approach that helps contractors get sizing right the first time: https://bit.ly/heatpump-manual-s-free-tool ---------------------------------------------------------- Shawn LeMons has worn nearly every hat in the world of building performance and HVAC. From growing up in off-grid homes to earning top building science certifications and co-owning a heat pump contracting business, his journey is full of lessons for contractors. In this episode, Shawn joins hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz to talk about:
Whether you’re scaling a contracting business or sharpening your design process, this conversation offers both practical strategies and grounded wisdom. Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [02:23] - Early life lessons in unique homes [15:12] - Why focus on heat pumps [19:21] - Incentives, early adopters, and Colorado’s growing demand [28:23] - A homeowner-first sales and design process [36:38] - Looking ahead: shop ownership, recycling, and team wellbeing [39:12] - Mental health in the trades and valuing hands-on genius [43:53] - Final advice: stay curious, stay informed, stay human Follow Shawn LeMons:
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| #35 The Heat Pump Concierge Model: Turning Utility Programs into Install-Ready Jobs | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:42:09 | |
Want to build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 -------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with Jake Yurek and Evan Anderson, Co-Founders of Pearl Edison — a startup rethinking how heat pumps and residential electrification projects get done. Pearl Edison doesn’t sell hardware or traditional SaaS; instead, they act as a concierge service, bridging the gap between utilities, homeowners, and contractors. Their white-labeled platform (like DTE’s Heat Pump Concierge) simplifies the process for homeowners while handing contractors fully designed, install-ready jobs — cutting acquisition costs and boosting quality outcomes. Jake and Evan discuss the origins of their mission, their unusual business model, and how they’re applying software-driven workflows and diagnostics to deliver better, faster installs at scale. From reducing the burden on expert designers to learning from the failures of Heat Pump 1.0, they explain how Pearl Edison is helping avoid the coming "heat pump revolt" and building trust between all parties involved. This episode is packed with lessons for anyone building in energy efficiency, HVAC, or climate tech. Key Learnings:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [02:30] - Meet Jake & Evan and how Pearl Edison started [04:07] - Jake & Evan’s career journeys and how they reconnected [08:35] - Pearl Edison’s white-labeled B2B model explained [15:52] - On pricing, bidding, and contractor flexibility [18:22] - Traction: Where Pearl Edison is operating now [27:25] - How smarter diagnostics empower homeowner decision-making [37:34] - What’s keeping them up at night — and what excites them [40:01] - Advice for startups and contractors in the space Follow Jake Yurek:
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| #34 How Stephen Hong Is Building a Heat Pump Business by Saying No to Fast Growth and Bad Installs | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:40:57 | |
Want to help build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 --------------------------------------------------------------- If you're a heat pump contractor feeling burnt out, wondering if this whole electrification thing is worth the hassle, or questioning whether you can build something meaningful in HVAC — this episode is your shot of inspiration. Stephen Hong is just over 30 years old. He's got a materials science degree from Virginia Tech. He's been running Electrify Colorado Mechanical for only a year and a half. And listening to him talk about heat pumps, you'd think he just discovered fire. "Heat pumps are the pearl of HVAC," Stephen says, and he means it. Not because they're easy money or simple installs, but because they're challenging. Because they matter. Because when you get one right, you're not just fixing someone's comfort — you're making a real dent in climate change while working on what Stephen calls "the most immense responsibility" — people's homes. This isn't your typical contractor success story. Stephen's path wound through disaster relief work, dead-end construction jobs, and answering a Craigslist ad from a guy who asked: "Do you want to help people stop burning dinosaur bones?" Key Learnings
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [02:45] - Meet Stephen Hong and Electrify Colorado Mechanical [04:26] - Stephen’s path from engineering to disaster relief to HVAC [17:24] - The 5,000 details that make or break an install [22:48] - Building trust through radical transparency [30:40] - His vision for growing the business — slowly and sustainably [37:02] - Stephen’s advice: Be human, ask for help, respect the responsibility Follow Stephen Hong:
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| #33 What Separates Successful Heat Pump Contractors from the Rest, with Jonathan Pires | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:41:55 | |
Want to build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 ------------------------------------------------ In this episode, Ed Smith welcomes Jonathan Pires, Area Sales Manager at Mitsubishi Electric, to explore what separates thriving HVAC contractors from the rest. Jonathan shares hard-earned insights from the field, explains how Mitsubishi’s Diamond Contractor Program works, and offers concrete tools that contractors often overlook — but shouldn’t. From the importance of software and sales training to key installation missteps, this conversation is packed with real-world advice for anyone working in heat pumps. Key Takeaways:
Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [04:11] - Background of Jonathan Pires [08:26] - What an Area Sales Manager actually does day-to-day [11:36] - Marketing support and overlooked Mitsubishi dealer resources [17:16] - Overview of the Diamond Contractor Program and scorecard [25:07] - Case study: reclaiming weekends through automation [34:02] - Avoiding callbacks: setting proper expectations with homeowners [39:00] - Ducted vs. ductless: when and how to use both [41:39] - Best resources for contractors looking to upskill Follow Jonathan Pires:
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| The Heat Pump Business Blueprint: Mike Cappuccio's Guide to Building a Company Worth Buying | 23 Jul 2025 | 00:57:39 | |
Want to help build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 ---------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, Ed Smith welcomes back Mike Cappuccio, who built his HVAC company to over $15 million in revenue with 72 employees before selling to private equity in 2021. Now coaching contractors nationwide through Dominate Ductless, Mike shares the specific metrics, systems, and strategies that separate successful heat pump businesses from those that struggle. Why Private Equity Was the Right Exit While getting into the HVAC business is easy, getting out profitably is much harder. Many acquisition companies offer only 30% upfront with aggressive three-year earnouts contractors rarely achieve. Private equity offered Mike 95% upfront with minimal risk, though with the trade-off of giving up control: "The house was white, they painted it orange. But it's their house, not mine anymore." The 6 Key Metrics Private Equity Firms Evaluate
The Four Essential Business Systems Mike identifies four core systems separating thriving businesses from struggling ones: System 1: Marketing, specifically problem-solution video marketing that documents real problems and solutions. Mike's YouTube videos continue helping customers years later. System 2: Two-minute speed-to-lead response time makes customers 50 times more likely to choose you. Requires live weekend coverage and immediate online responses. System 3: Defined sales process with 30-45 minute Home Comfort Surveys focusing on consultative selling rather than simple “box swaps”. System 4: Price books and margin management that adjust for true overhead as companies grow. Competing Against Low-Price Contractors Mike's philosophy: "Knowledge is power." Educated contractors maintain advantages through financing capabilities, comprehensive discovery, and advanced technology demonstrations using tools like LiDAR and augmented reality. Key Takeaways For building better businesses:
For potential exits:
Timestamps: [04:15] - Mike’s journey: scaling and selling his HVAC business [11:49] - Key KPIs Private Equity investors care about. [20:24] - Importance of maintenance agreements [28:00] - Four core systems every contractor must build [32:47] - Why fast response time (speed-to-lead) matters [38:54] - How to compete against low-price contractors [42:53] - Educated selling: show, don’t tell [49:22] - Final thoughts: don’t give away value Follow Mike Cappuccio Follow Dominate Ductless
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| The Future of Heat Pumps (Hint: It's Air-to-Water) - A Conversation with Ross Trethewey | 09 Jul 2025 | 01:01:28 | |
Building the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer to help contractors measure homes faster and design systems more accurately. Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 Ready to design heat pump systems that actually work? Grab our free manual cold-climate heat pump selection tool — the same systematic approach that helps contractors like Robert get sizing right the first time: https://info.amply.energy/heat-pump-manual-s-free-tool ------------------------------------------------- When Ross Trethewey calls heat pumps "magic boxes," he's not being hyperbolic. As the founder of TE2 Engineering and building engineer for PBS's This Old House, Ross has spent 15 years designing some of the most sophisticated HVAC systems in North America — from 7,000-square-foot custom homes to 45,000-square-foot compounds. The Foundation: Design Before Installation, Every Time Ross's approach starts with proper Manual J, S, and D calculations — something he believes every HVAC contractor should master, not just mechanical engineers. "For any HVAC contractor, they should be well equipped to be able to provide that level of information and run those calculations." The Future is Air-to-Water Of all heat pump technologies, Ross is betting big on air-to-water systems. "If I had to pick a horse in the race, 15 years from now, 20 years from now, I think it will be air-to-water." His reasoning is compelling: Future-proofing against refrigerant changes. As the industry moves from R-410A to R-32, 454B, and eventually to A3l refrigerants, air-to-water systems keep the refrigerant contained in the outdoor unit. What Separates the Top 5% The best HVAC contractors are family-owned businesses with multi-generational thinking, not private equity-owned companies focused on short-term returns. These top-tier contractors: -Invest heavily in training. Ross regularly gets out-of-office messages saying entire crews are at air-to-water heat pump training. -Provide proper tools and support for their technicians. Episode Timestamps: [03:56] - Ross’s origin story: 5th-gen plumber to mechanical engineer to TV educator [13:22] - Benefits of heat pumps vs. conventional systems [18:48] - Challenges of going 100% heat pump in older homes (no fossil fuel backup) [32:06] - What’s coming with air-to-water heat pumps to get higher temperature output [42:46] - Heat recovery and system optimization [54:11] - What separates top 5% HVAC contractors from the rest [59:49] - Ross’s top recommended resources and final advice to HVAC pros Follow Ross Trethewey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosstrethewey/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosstretheweytoh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosstrethewey/?hl=en Twitter: https://x.com/rosstret Follow This Old House: Company’s Website: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ Company’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisOldHouse Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-old-house-ventures/ Company’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisoldhouse/ Company’s Twitter: https://x.com/ThisOldHouse Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thisoldhouse Follow TE2 Engineering: Company’s Website: https://te2engineering.com/ Company’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TE2engineering/?ref=br_rs Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/te2-engineering-llc./ Company’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/te2engineering/ Company’s Twitter: https://x.com/te2engineering Company’s youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist Follow the Hosts: Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716 Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/ Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/ Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/ | |||
| The Contrarian: How Robert Hamerly Built a Thriving Business by Embracing Complexity | 25 Jun 2025 | 00:52:15 | |
Want to build the future of heat pump software? We're hiring a software engineer! Check out our open role. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool—the same systematic approach that helps contractors like Robert get sizing right the first time: https://info.amply.energy/heat-pump-manual-s-free-tool --------------------------------------------- Most successful heat pump contractors simplify ruthlessly. They pick one thing — e.g., ductless installs, etc — and execute flawlessly. It's a proven path to profitability that we've seen work again and again. Robert Hamerly took the opposite approach. And amazingly, it's working brilliantly. The CEO of GreenSavers has built a 70-person operation across Oregon that tackles everything from heat pumps and insulation to seismic retrofits and EV chargers. His mission? Turn homes from financial liabilities into energy-positive assets that produce enough power to cover transportation needs. It sounds chaotic. It probably should be chaotic. But Robert's contrarian bet on complexity reveals something fascinating about building a business around truly solving customer problems. The Problem with Simple Solutions "If we could change our mission, we could adopt a simpler framework," Robert admits. "But if we are pursuing this mission of buildings that are beyond net zero, it's hard for us to figure out a different way to come at it." Here's the thing: Robert discovered that you can't install an effective heat pump system in a house with uninsulated walls and leaky ducts. You can tell customers to call someone else for that work, but then you're handing off leads you worked hard to generate. So GreenSavers learned to handle the entire sequence. Envelope first, then mechanical systems, then electrical upgrades, then solar. Each service emerged organically from customer needs, not from a business plan. The result? Homes that actually hit net-zero or better. Transportation included. When Macro Forces Attack Robert's biggest concerns: tariffs that could spike heat pump costs 145%, utility rate increases that change project economics overnight, and infrastructure costs getting passed to residential customers to subsidize AI data centers. "How do you plan when you put all this time and energy into a certain kind of product, and then that one product gets a 145% tariff applied to it?" he asks. "All the planning you've done goes out the window." Timestamps [00:00] - Homes as assets: the GreenSavers vision [03:53] - Evolving from energy audits to whole-home electrification [06:33] - Robert’s origin story: hay bale homes and cold Vermont winters [19:25] - Sales strategy shifts based on political geography [26:08] - How did Robert manage the complexity of the business? [35:37] - Internal training and onboarding at GreenSavers [40:10] - What keeps Robert up at night? Uncontrollable macro trends Follow the Guest & the Company: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hamerly-2ab87aa/ Company’s Website: https://greensavers.com/ Company’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreenSaversUSA# Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greensavers-usa/ Company’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greensavers/# Company’s Twitter: https://x.com/GreenSaversUSA Follow the Hosts: Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716 Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/ Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/ Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/ | |||
| Where Heat Pump Design Gets Fun – Manual S and Beyond with Eric Fitz | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:56:03 | |
Amply is hiring! We’re looking for an awesome Senior iOS Engineer to join our small but mighty team. If you are anyone you know is interested, check out our job posting to learn more and apply. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 ---------------------------------------- Most contractors know about Manual S. Few really use it. In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, Amply co-founder Eric Fitz walks through Manual S in plain English—breaking down what matters, what doesn’t, and how to design heat pump systems that actually deliver comfort all year long. Using his own home in Portland, Maine as a case study, Eric explains how to interpret extended performance tables, avoid oversizing, and balance real-world tradeoffs like auxiliary heat and low load cycling. The episode also introduces Amply’s free Manual S spreadsheet tool—designed to take the math and guesswork out of equipment selection. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to size systems with confidence, especially in cold climates where comfort and efficiency are harder to get right. Key Learnings:
Timestamps [00:00] - Intro & Free Manual S spreadsheet [01:35] - Meet Eric Fitz & today’s goal: demystify Manual S [03:48] - What makes heat pump design so hard (and fun!) [07:00] - Why your Manual J must be aggressive [10:15] - Comfort first, efficiency second [20:00] - The 4 Manual S ratios (and how to use them) [28:15] - Getting the right performance data [36:00] - Real-world trade-offs: auxiliary heat, cycling, efficiency [44:30] - Kilowatt hours vs. energy costs: What matters to homeowners [52:00] - Wrap-up: tools, tradeoffs, and where to go from here Resources for Smarter Heat Pump Design:
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| The Financial Risks of Manual Rebate Workflows (and How to Fix Them) – A Conversation with Samir Pendse | 28 May 2025 | 00:38:27 | |
Amply is hiring! We’re looking for an awesome Senior iOS Engineer to join our small but mighty team. If you are anyone you know is interested, check out our job posting to learn more and apply. https://info.amply.energy/sr-mobile-engineer-may-2025 ------------------------------------------------ In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, Amply co-founders Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with Samir Pendse, CEO and co-founder of Coral, an innovative startup simplifying the notoriously complex world of heat pump rebates. With an extensive background in fintech and small-business lending, Samir explains how Coral transforms cumbersome rebate processes into instant savings at the kitchen table, boosting contractor sales and customer satisfaction. Why This Matters Rebates are a critical part of the heat pump sales process in many states. Yet, contractors regularly face significant financial risks, paperwork headaches, and unpredictable cash flow when manually managing rebates. Coral tackles these problems head-on, ensuring contractors and homeowners alike benefit immediately without the usual stress or uncertainty. Key Learnings: -Turbo Tax for Heat Pump Rebates: Coral uses software to provide a simple, 60-second app experience to quickly and accurately calculate and guarantee rebate amounts right in the home. -Instant rebates boost sales: Contractors using Coral see up to 15% higher conversion rates. -Stable state rebates: Utility and state-driven rebates remain robust despite federal IRA program delays. -Financing is critical: Low-cost loans dramatically increase heat pump affordability for the average homeowner. -Quality and simplicity: Smart policy design and streamlined technology ensure both accessibility and high-quality installations. -Streamline with software: Software tools like Coral (and Amply) simplify and accelerate rebate processes and heat pump sizing. Timestamps [00:00] - Introduction [01:21] - Meet Samir Pendse & Coral’s mission [04:01] - Business model & Value to contractors [05:16] - Origin story & pivot from software to financing [09:39] - Real-life rebate pain points Coral is solving [15:14] - Financing the rebates & making contractors whole [18:48] - Incentives & the Inflation Reduction Act [27:19] - Quality assurance & software-enabled simplicity [36:25] - Final thoughts & Resources for heat pump entrepreneurs Connect with Samir Pendse: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samirpendse/ Website https://www.startcoral.com/ Email: hello@startcoral.com Company’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startcoral/ Follow the Hosts: Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716 Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/ Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/ Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/ | |||
| The Conference for Contractors Who Want to Get Heat Pumps Right – with Brent Davidson | 21 May 2025 | 00:30:27 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book on in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips --------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, Amply co-founder Ed Smith talks with Brent Davidson, founder of the US Heat Pump Summit. Brent’s journey from building climate-tech software to starting one of the most compelling HVAC events in the country is a case study in how community, business strategy, and technical know-how can come together to drive real change. And the Summit? It’s not just another trade show. It’s two days of contractor-focused training, business insights, and peer-to-peer learning—all built around the future of HVAC. What you’ll learn
What Makes the US Heat Pump Summit Different? Brent’s focus is simple: put the right people in the room and spark the right conversation. That means:
It’s the only event where the people in the room actually want to talk about Manual J, coefficients of performance, electric strip backups vs. supplemental dehumidification, and customer acquisition in the same breath. Why This Matters Heat pumps are gaining ground—but success doesn’t come from equipment alone. It comes from design, training, and business models that reward quality. That’s what the Summit is about. And Brent? He’s not trying to run yet another conference. He’s trying to help build an industry. Timestamps [00:00] - Introduction [03:13] - Brent’s background and his career. [05:11] - Importance of community and storytelling in climate work [08:01] - Lessons from past events and expectations for the Worcester event. [14:51] - What does a good heat pump installation look like? [21:06] - Why were heat pumps chosen as the starting point for the US Electric Home Summit? [23:26] - Heat pumps prioritized for energy savings, design complexity, and contractor demand. [27:48] - Recommended resources for learning about building science, electrification, heat pumps, and HVAC Connect with Brent Davidson:
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| Avoid the HVAC Race to the Bottom – With Building Science, Heat Pumps, and Brynn Cooksey | 14 May 2025 | 00:38:32 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book on in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips --------------------------------------- In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, we sit down with Brynn Cooksey—founder of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling, HVAC U, and a longtime leader in whole-home performance. Brynn’s journey takes us from his early days as a tech working alongside his father to running one of the most forward-thinking HVAC businesses in the Midwest. His secret? Don’t play the price game. Play the diagnostics game. The Power of Building Science Brynn explains how embracing building science helped his company escape the “race to the bottom”—the box-swapping, lowest-bid dynamic that plagues much of the industry. Instead, his team leads with comfort, efficiency, and trust—delivering measurable, science-backed improvements that customers can see and feel. At the heart of his process is in-home diagnostics. Think thermal imaging, pressure tests, and duct sizing analysis—not just glossy proposals. Brynn’s philosophy is simple: let the customer “buy” instead of getting sold. Show them what’s wrong, explain why it matters, and guide them to the best solution. Lessons from the Field Brynn also shares insights from a heat pump pilot program in Michigan, built in collaboration with Pearl Edison. From dual fuel designs to system sizing and load calculations, he offers a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to electrify the right way. Key takeaways include:
Why It Matters Brynn isn’t just running a profitable business—he’s helping chart a path for HVAC’s future. As incentives expand and heat pump adoption accelerates, we need more contractors who know how to design and install systems that actually deliver. Timestamps: [02:26] - Brynn’s background: Air Doctors, HVAC U, and Pearl Edison [05:26] - Using building science to escape the race to the bottom [09:45] - What Pearl Edison does and how it benefits contractors [13:43] - Why electrification isn’t always the first step [16:51] - Dual fuel systems as a practical solution in cold climates [19:14] - The danger of “Heat Pump Cowboys” and bad installs [23:56] - Making heat pumps profitable for quality contractors [35:57] - Final thoughts on solving the trust gap and winning customers Connect with Brynn Cooksey:
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| Creating the First New Heat Pump OEM in 60 Years with Paul Lambert | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:42:46 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book on in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips ------------------------------------------- In this episode, Ed Smith and Eric Fitz, Co-Founders of Amply Energy, speak with Paul Lambert, founder and CEO of Quilt. Paul shares how Quilt saw a massive opportunity to innovate in HVAC by reimagining heat pumps from top to bottom and building with an integrated “full stack” approach. Paul discusses the inspiration behind Quilt, how his background in Silicon Valley shaped the company’s approach, and why vertical integration is key to optimizing comfort and efficiency for homeowners. He also explains why the shift from a direct-to-consumer model to working with contractors is the next crucial step in scaling Quilt’s impact. Whether you're an HVAC professional, a heat pump enthusiast, an entrepreneur or someone interested in the energy transition, this episode is packed with insights on product innovation, business strategy, and the future of HVAC hardware, software, and the overall heat pump experience. Expect to Learn:
In Today’s Episode: [00:00] - Introduction [01:12] - The Origins of Quilt & Paul Lambert’s Background [03:21] - Why Quilt Chose to Develop a Ductless Heat Pump [06:02] - Why Paul founded Quilt [14:18] - The Role of Aesthetics in Consumer Adoption [21:04] - Scaling Quilt’s Distribution and Training New Partners [29:33] - Shift from direct consumer to Business-to-Business. [35:12] - Expanding Quilt geographically with the help of partners [40:31] - Closing Thoughts & Final Advice Connect with Paul Lambert:
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| Corbett Lunsford on Arming Homeowners with the Knowledge they need to get the HVAC systems they deserve | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:53:33 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book on in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips ----------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz welcome Corbett Lunsford, a building science expert and host of the PBS show Home Diagnosis, to discuss the importance of scientific approaches in HVAC, the power of testing, and how to navigate the industry with confidence. Corbett shares insights on tools like blower doors, RED Calc and his own psychrometric wheel. With years of experience in building science, he brings a fresh perspective on how proper testing and measurement can significantly improve HVAC performance and efficiency. This episode is packed with valuable information for HVAC professionals, contractors, and anyone passionate about building science. Tune in to gain expert knowledge that can help you refine your approach, deliver more comfort to homeowners, and better explain your solution to your customers. Expect to Learn:
Episode Breakdown: [00:00] - Introduction of the episode. [01:17] - Corbett’s Background [04:34] - The Importance of Testing in HVAC [06:52] - Essential Tools for Building Performance Analysis [13:44] - Common Industry Misconceptions [17:07] - The building envelope comes first; HVAC must work with it, not around it. [22:57] - Blower door and pressure tests reveal issues you can’t see. [32:13] - Great installations begin with smart HVAC design. [46:37] - The Role of Consumer Education [50:03] - Closing Remarks and Where to Connect with Corbett [50:59] - Free Resources and Tools for HVAC Professionals Connect with Corbett Lunsford:
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| The bumps, bruises, and lessons learned of scaling a home performance business to $150M with Chris Nichols | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:40:28 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book on in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips ------------------------------------------ In this episode, Ed Smith and Eric Fitz, co-founders of Amply Energy, speak with Christopher Nichols, COO of HomeWorks Energy, about the challenges and strategies behind scaling a home performance business. Chris shares how HomeWorks Energy grew from 10 people to a 750 person company generating $150 million in revenue all while maintaining a strong focus on energy efficiency, heat pumps, and customer service. Chris explains how to build a talent machine in the HVAC industry, the importance of training, and the role of technology in scaling operations while maintaining quality. He also shares key lessons from his own career journey, including the mistakes and successes that shaped HomeWorks into the thriving company it is today. Whether you're in heat pumps, weatherization, home energy efficiency, or just looking to scale a service-based business, this episode is full of valuable tips on growth, leadership, and operational efficiency. Expect to Learn
In Today’s Episode: [01:13] - Introduction [03:22] - Understanding HomeWorks & Its Mission [05:48] - Chris Nichols’ Career Path & Early Influences [09:13] - Scaling HomeWorks & Building a Talent Machine [14:07] - Adding HVAC Services & Overcoming Initial Challenges [10:54] - The Framework for Scaling Multiple Service Lines [22:11] - Cracking the Code on Marketing & Lead Generation [26:33] - Leveraging Technology to Scale Skilled Labor [31:42] - Streamlining Sales & Comfort Advisor Roles [32:42] - Key Advice for HVAC Entrepreneurs [36:49] - The Future of HomeWorks & Industry Expansion [40:53] - Closing Thoughts & Final Advice Connect with Christopher Nichols:
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| The Practice and Philosophy of Building Science – A Discussion with Alex Meaney and Nate Adams | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:54:29 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book and transform your approach to in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips --------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz sit down with HVAC experts Alex Meaney and Nate Adams to discuss the building science, heat pump sizing, HVAC design, dehumidification, rebates, manufacturer data, the challenges of industry regulations, and a whole lot more. Alex and Nate are two of the most experienced and brilliant folks in building performance, home retrofits, and HVAC system design. Alex and Nate come at things from different perspectives, and what unfolds is a fascinating discussion at the bleeding edge of building science., Alex and Nate share valuable knowledge on load calculations, heat pump rebates, efficiency metrics, and the real world challenges of transitioning to all electric homes. They also discuss common mistakes in heat pump installations, the role of data in HVAC advancements, and the limitations of current efficiency standards. Whether you're an HVAC contractor, energy consultant, or homeowner interested in heat pumps, this episode provides thought provoking discussions and actionable insights for navigating the evolving world of heating and cooling. Key Takeaways:
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [02:34] - Introduction and Guest Overview [03:09] - Guest Introductions and Backgrounds [04:20] - Areas of Agreement in HVAC Design [06:55] - Communicating Equipment and Dehumidification [10:19] - Problems with Efficiency Ratings (SEER, EER, and Latent Performance) [18:18] - Temperature vs. Humidity for Comfort [22:59] - The Debate: Sizing for Heating vs. Cooling [30:18] - The Impact of Building Infiltration on HVAC Performance [42:22] - The Future of HVAC System Design [51:33] - Closing Thoughts and Advice for HVAC Contractors Connect with the Guests:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-meaney-62a6a248/ Website: https://www.meanhvac.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alex.meaney.35
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natethehousewhisperer/ Website: https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natethehousewhisperer/?igsh=bXNyeTAwNGkybWk4# Follow the Hosts Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716 Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/ Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/ Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/ | |||
| The Beauty of Dual Fuel Solutions with Mike Gundersen | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:43:22 | |
Looking to stand out in the competitive Heat Pump market? Learn from the best with our FREE e-book and transform your approach to in-home heat pump sales. Get it today: https://bit.ly/Top_10Heat_pumpSalestips --------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of the Heat Pump Podcast, hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz, co-founders of Amply Energy, sit down with Mike Gundersen, owner of Compass Heating and Air Conditioning and HVAC dual fuel expert from the Chicago area. Mike shares his journey from the military to leading a successful HVAC business, focusing on doing things the right way. With extensive experience in the field, including a significant focus on heat pump technology and dual fuel systems, Mike shares his expertise on why heat pumps win on comfort. He discusses the technical aspects of heat pump installations, the benefits of dual-fuel systems, and how he has built his business gradually, focusing on doing the basics right consistently. Mike’s expertise is not only in the installation but also in the practical application of heat pump systems in various environments, emphasizing how proper system design can lead to significant improvements in comfort and customer satisfaction – in addition to efficiency savings. Expect to Learn
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:32] - Introduction to Mike Gundersen and the Heat Pump Podcast [01:12] - Mike Gundersen's journey from military service to HVAC expertise [05:16] - The business model and driving principles of Mike's HVAC company [15:45] - Exploring dual fuel system advantages [26:01] - Technological advancements in heat pump systems [39:30] - Mike discusses resources for continuous learning and improvement in the HVAC field [42:47] -Closing thoughts Connect with our guest Mike Gundersen: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gundersen-27a10411b/ 👉 Compass Heating and Air Conditioning Website: https://compassheatingandair.com/ Follow the Hosts 👉 Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716 👉 Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/ 👉 Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/ 👉 Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy 👉 Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy 👉 Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/ | |||