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Explore every episode of the podcast Building HVAC Science

Dive into the complete episode list for Building HVAC Science. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
EP181 From Drawings to Durability: Inside the Minds of Building Science Experts with Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn (August 2024)30 Aug 202400:27:00

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser discuss their recent experiences at industry events, particularly the Westford Symposium on Building Science, also known as Building Science Summer Camp. They reflect on the event's unique blend of technical presentations and social interactions, highlighting the presentation by Keith Simon on the longevity of building designs and the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality. The discussion emphasizes how architecture should prioritize craft and function to ensure the longevity and sustainability of buildings.

Eric also shares his insights on another compelling presentation by Steve Baczek, who stressed the importance of clear communication in architectural drawings. Baczek's approach underlines the necessity for architects to convey their intentions precisely to ensure that contractors can execute designs effectively. This conversation leads to a broader discussion on how crucial it is for the HVAC industry to embrace detailed and thoughtful design practices to improve system performance and occupant comfort.

The episode concludes with a look at the social side of these events, where industry professionals from around the world gather to exchange ideas and experiences. The hosts emphasize the value of continuous learning and engagement within the industry, encouraging listeners to seek out educational opportunities and resources to stay informed and improve their professional practice.

Eric's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/

Bill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/

 

Building Science Corporation link to Summer Camp Slides: https://buildingscience.com/past-events

 

This episode was recorded in August 2024.

EP180 Home Monitoring Madness: Tracking Energy, Air, and More with Bill and ELK (July 2024)23 Aug 202400:40:04

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser engage in a lively "duo cast" discussing the various measurements they take in their homes and the reasons behind them. They start the conversation by reflecting on their recent episode with Gary Klein, which inspired Eric to set up a data logging system to monitor hot water temperatures in his home. This leads to a broader discussion about the different tools and devices they use to track energy consumption and efficiency, such as the Emporia Vue energy monitor, which helped Bill identify a faulty installation in his heat pump system.

The hosts delve into their personal experiences with various smart home devices, including air quality monitors from Airthings, radon monitors, and even an innovative weather station called Tempest. They share insights on how these devices have provided valuable data, helping them make informed decisions about their home's energy use and indoor air quality. Bill highlights his use of an ERV system that runs based on CO2 levels. At the same time, Eric discusses his plans to upgrade his home's ventilation and dehumidification systems using the Haven air quality monitor.

Toward the end of the episode, Bill and Eric discuss their use of fitness trackers, discussing the metrics they monitor for personal health. Bill also mentions his latest acquisition, a Bluetooth meat probe, which he plans to use to perfect his grilling techniques. The episode wraps up with the hosts emphasizing the importance of integrating monitoring tools into everyday life to enhance comfort, efficiency, and well-being and inviting listeners to reach out for more information on the products discussed.

Contact us at

bill@trutechtools.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/

ekaiser@trutechtools.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/

Take a look at what ROCIS (https://rocis.org/low-cost-monitoring-project/)  is doing, especially concerning RADON: https://rocis.org/radon-resources/

EPA Radon map: https://www.epa.gov/radon/epa-map-radon-zones

The spray foam attic ping pong effect: https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/high-humidity-in-a-spray-foam-attic-part-2/

Products we mention in this podcast:

HAVEN IAQ monitors: https://trutechtools.com/haven

Airthings Radon CO2 and more: https://trutechtools.com/Airthings

Emporia Circuit Power Monitors and EV Chargers: https://www.emporiaenergy.com/

CERV2: Bill's Conditioning ERV that uses a CO2 sensor to decide when to run: https://buildequinox.com/

Home weather station: https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest

Security cameras:
Eric's:  https://www.eufy.com/eufycam#navimenu_4_copy

Bill's: https://www.wyze.com/products/wyze-cam

EcoQube Radon: https://ecosense.io/products/ecoqube

Aranet COs monitor: https://aranet.com/products/aranet4-home

Meater Bluetooth cooking thermometer: https://store-us.meater.com/products/meater-plus

Kardia portable 6 lead EKG: https://store.kardia.com/products/kardiamobile

Apple watch for fitness: https://www.apple.com/watch/

Home Automation: https://www.home-assistant.io/

 

This episode was recorded in July 2024.

EP171 Bill's updates (June 2024)21 Jun 202400:09:52

In this short episode, Bill Spohn provides updates on new products, presentations, resources, and interesting travel he and Eric Kaiser have been engaged with during the last few months.

LINKS
https://www.youtube.com/@TruTechTools/videos

https://trutechtools.com/yellow-jacket/

https://trutechtools.com/jb-industries.html

https://hvacrschool.com/

www.betterhvac.org

www.building-performane.org

www.getduckling.com

https://www.zerohomes.io/

www.sealed.com

https://getconduit.com/

www.amply.energy

www.kwikmodel.com

www.diyloadcalcs.com

 

 

 

This episode was recorded in June 2024.

EP81 HVAC Chemistry with Rachel & Eric Kaiser (April 2022)24 Jun 202200:39:05

SCIENCE - In pursuit of understanding in the moment.

 

Join us as Rachel and Eric Kaiser, a wife and husband team from Indianapolis, share with us their perspectives on HVAC Chemistry.

 

If you've attended or watched Bryan Orr's HVACR School Symposium over the last 3 years you may have seen them present.

 

We discuss the relative scales of time and size as well as the properties and impact of water on HVAC designs and decisions and so many other topics!

 

We learn more about the scientific/chemical aspects of dirt on surfaces, coatings and filtration

 

Some notable thoughts:

 

Chemistry is like baking, only you shouldn't lick the spoon.

 

Cooking is like jazz music- in its improvisational aspect.

 

Watch Ty Branaman interview Rachel at the latest symposium: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPqN5yUNChw

 

And here are some links to many other podcasts that Eric has done on a wide range of topics from careers to tools to HVAC charging and more.

 

https://ivy.fm/tag/eric-kaiser

 

And we are proud to announce that Eric will be sharing his knowledge and skills and working with TruTech Tools on a regular basis beginning in June 2022.




This episode was recorded in April 2022.

EP80 What is PACE with Scott Ringlein (March 2020)17 Jun 202200:38:07

We're joined on today's podcast by Scott Ringlein, a Clean Energy & Sustainability Specialist & Consultant.

 

Scott was raised as a farmer and educated as an engineer with a first career path in the auto industry.

 

He ventured out on his own creating a second career in sustainability with a focus on energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy measures. 

 

Listen in as Scott shares his journey and achievements which include work for the U.S. Department of Energy and the founding of The Energy Alliance Group of North America in 2012. 

 

Scott helps us to understand PACE: Property Assessed Clean Energy. There are a lot of great resources on his website where EAG has a "four cores" approach to green and renewable solutions: Technology, Financing, Incentives and Services.

 

Learn more about the EAG here: energyalliancegroup.org  

 

And contact Scott via: sringlein@energyalliancegroup.org




Follow Scott on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sringlein/






This episode was recorded in March 2020.

EP79 Two Peas in a Podcast? HVAC Know It All & Building HVAC Science Swap Stories with Gary MacCreadie & Bill Spohn (May 2022)10 Jun 202200:49:41
If you're in the HVAC field and you listen to podcasts, it's likely you've heard of Gary MacCreadie. 

 

If not, here's your chance to get an inside perspective on how and why Gary got into the HVAC Field and later started a podcast audaciously named HVAC Know-It-All.

 

Throughout the episode, we flip flop as interviewer and guest.

 

Gary has recently started his own business, as he, like many others including me, do not like taking direction from others.

 

Follow all content of the HVAC Know It All here: https://www.hvacknowitall.com/

 

Gary is one of the growing list of TruFriends, talented people in the trade that we list on this page on our website: https://www.trutechtools.com/friends-of-trutech-tools.html






Follow Gary and Bill on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/






This episode was recorded in May 2022.

EP78 Propane HVAC systems with Bryan Cordill of PERC (June 2020)03 Jun 202200:37:52

On today's podcast we are joined by Bryan Cordill, the Director of Residential and Commercial Business Development at the Propane Education and Research Council.

 

Bryan has decades of experience in the world of propane and in the energy industry in general. 

 

We cover topics ranging from propane as a source of space & water heating, cooking, mobile energy including school buses, to combined heat and power systems. We also touch on propane as a refrigerant (R-290).

 

You might be surprised at the size of some of the systems we discuss.




You can learn more about the mission and work of the Propane Education Research Council by going to: www.propane.com/



Follow Bryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-cordill-438557a/





This episode was recorded in June 2020.

EP77 Energy Demand as Resource with Matt Golden of Recurve (Oct. 2019)27 May 202200:50:58

Matt Golden is Founder and CEO of Recurve a company that connects the dots between efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and DERS (distributed energy resources).

 

Recurve's mission is to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy by integrating behind the meter demand flexibility resources into the emerging carbon-free energy grid.

 

Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) can be described as small-scale electricity generation and storage devices that are generally connect to the grid. These sources can be Solar, Wind, and battery storage, and others. 

 

Matt's focus is on energy and the climate while looking for the customer benefit.

 

He's got an impressive career path, including the founding of Sustainable Spaces (AKA Recurve at the time) in 2004, which over 7 years grew to be the largest home performance contractor on the West coast.

 

You can find Matt and follow his work on his website: www.recurve.com

 

And on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/goldenmatt/

 

Matt's most recent TEDx talk was in Sonoma in March 2022 discussing VPPs Virtual Power Plants: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knDsACZaaQc




This episode was recorded in October 2019, but check the links above for more up to date info as things change quickly in this field.

EP76 How to market invisible performance with Max Rohr (Feb. 2020)20 May 202200:25:53

Max Rohr (formerly with Rehau as the Marketing and Academy Manager for Building Solutions) spends some time explaining for us the process of creating and marketing products to move energy in water, that is radiant heating and cooling systems, as well as plumbing applications with Pex.

 

We learn about both Max's background and the background of the Rehau company which has 20,000 employees in 55 countries and operates in 5 distinct market areas globally.



This episode was recorded in February 2020.

EP75 What it's like working at Kalos with Austin Klokus (Nov. 2019)13 May 202200:25:54

I was impressed with Austin Klokus when I first met him on a trip to Kalos Services (The Orr Family HVAC/Mechanical business in Clermont FL) a few years ago.

 

He was working as a senior videographer at the time where he had soaked up knowledge from Bryan Orr and others and taught himself the skills necessary to do fulfill this role.

 

I loved it when he used the phrase "air is stuff" in one of his videos to convey the message that air has mass.

 

I saw him again in person recently at the 3rd Annual HVAC School Symposium and he continues to mature and grow as a person.

 

I appreciate his "young wisdom" and I hope that you do, too.



This episode was recorded in November 2019.

EP74 Where you can go with passion and persistence with Craig Migliaccio (April 2022)06 May 202200:53:18

I can easily summarize this episode with a single quote from Craig's LinkedIn bio:

 

"Remember that we are all teachers and need to invest in others to succeed."

 

You may have heard of Craig; as his HVAC Training books and YouTube videos continue to grow in popularity. Find him on the AC Service Tech Channel on YouTube.

 

He's always been a problem solver including solving the problem of teaching himself how to write some of the most thoughtfully developed HVAC training materials out there.

 

https://www.youtube.com/c/acservicetechchannel

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-migliaccio-71085a74/

 

info@acservicetech.com

 

You can find his books on Amazon or via his website:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/acservicetech/list/2JFZVBR572471

 

https://www.acservicetech.com/



This episode was recorded in April 2022.

EP73 Creating superb customer service with Steve Coscia (Sep 2021)22 Apr 202200:41:27

I'm so pleased to welcome my friend Steve Coscia to the podcast!

 

You may have heard of him; he focuses on training customer service skills especially in the world of HVAC.

 

As a master communications trainer, he gets his points across via memorable story telling.

 

He holds awesome in-person training sessions (he has been to TruTech Tools twice!) and has books, newsletters, materials, and videos, all of which can be found though this website and YouTube channel: Links below

 

https://www.coscia.com/

 

https://www.youtube.com/user/stevecoscia/videos

 

His 3 key principles of customer problem handling are contain, qualify and correct.

 

A lot of what he teaches may be considered life skills. You need to get a dose of Steve if you can.


You will also find Steve presenting at conferences and in the media/videos via other organizations like ACCA and The New Flat Rate.

 

This episode was recorded in September 2021.

EP72 Energy Efficiency, decarbonization and sustainability with John Sheff from Danfoss (Aug. 2021)15 Apr 202200:30:23

In today's podcast we hear from John Sheff who was the director of Public and Industry Affairs for Danfoss at the time of this recording.

 

We learn how John's passion about energy efficiency, decarbonization and sustainability combines with his professional experience in Public Affairs, Government Relations, Project Management and Business Development to help develop strong solutions that meet our industry's needs.

 

We hear about the barriers to deep energy retrofits, limitations of the push for electrification as well as how people are thinking beyond the individual building to tackle building emissions.

 

We also talk about the need for variable speed technology HVAC systems that can ramp up or down to accommodate commercial space that is operating at varying degrees of capacity. And we touch on need to maintain constant, variable airflow as opposed to on/off air flow in indoors spaces with respect to what we have learned in response to COVID-19.

 

You can learn more about Danfoss products at this link: https://www.danfoss.com/en-us/

 

And read more on Danfoss' position on ESG at this link:

https://www.danfoss.com/en-us/about-danfoss/company/sustainability/esg-ranks-and-ratings/



 

This episode was recorded in August 2021.

EP170 How to Grow and Scale a Business from the Ground Up: Tommy Mello (June 2024)14 Jun 202400:42:51

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Eric Kaiser welcomes Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Doors, creator of Home Service Expert, podcast host, Inc. Magazine Columnist, and author. Tommy shares lessons and speed bumps along his journey from his first job washing dishes, to growing a successful business.

Tommy emphasizes the critical role of profitability in sustaining a business. He talks about the need for business owners to charge prices that reflect the quality of their services and allow them to invest in their teams and tools. Tommy challenges the common mindset of underpricing services and explains how maintaining higher standards and prices not only benefits the business but also ensures that employees are well-compensated and motivated. His perspective on pricing and profitability provides a refreshing take on what it means to run a successful and ethical business.

In a candid conversation, Tommy sheds light on the importance of a solid support system and continuous improvement in all aspects of the business. He speaks about his reliance on mentors and advisors to avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Tommy's story offers valuable lessons and inspiration to help you achieve your goals.

 

Tommy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/

A1 Garage Door Service: https://a1garage.com

Home Service Expert: https://homeserviceexpert.com

Home Service Expert podcast: https://homeserviceexpert.com/podcast

Shop Tour of A1 AGrage: https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/a1-shop-tour

PinParrot: https://pinparrot.com/

Freedom Event: https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/freedom-event-2024

 

 

This episode was recorded in June 2024.

EP71 Helping contractors, technically and through marketing services- a conversation with Tom Jackson (Sept. 2019)08 Apr 202200:50:12

Tom Jackson has a passion for the HVAC Trades and it shows through in what he does as leader of Jackson Systems and Supply.

 

Tom is a true entrepreneur following where his customers lead him.

 

His company focuses on product development and support and solves some real head scratcher problems with products and services that you won't find elsewhere.

 

Services like Filter Fetch – making it easy on contractors for their customers to do the right thing.

 

You'll hear about his vision and perspectives and the awesome online training system they have developed.

 

You can learn more about his company here: https://jacksonsystems.com/

 

We are proud to carry his iO Controls line of products at TruTech Tools:

https://www.trutechtools.com/iO-HVAC-Controls



 

This episode was recorded in Sept  2019.

Tom Jackson

Tom Jackson is the chief executive officer of Jackson Systems, LLC. A Purdue University graduate, Tom is a degreed engineer and spent several years as a territory manager with a large heating and cooling wholesaler in Indiana. During that time, Tom learned a great deal about controls, equipment and incredible client service. In 1997, Tom partnered with his parents to start Jackson Systems. While he is involved with most aspects of the business, he focuses on long-term strategies, product development and making Jackson Systems an incredible place to work. Tom, Ron and Bette have grown Jackson Systems from a start-up to a $20M + company with 81 employees.  Jackson Systems has won "Best Places to Work" seven times for the State of Indiana.

Tom was a founding Board Member of the Zoning Marketing Alliance (ZMA), which merged with the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), the premiere governing body of the HVAC industry. Additionally, Tom is on the Board of Directors for the Indiana HVAC Association and serves on two national committees for the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).  Tom also received the National Distinguished Service Award from ACCA.

Tom lives in Indianapolis with his wife Jane and their two children. He is active in the Boy Scouts of America.  He earned the rank of Eagle Scout and has the distinct honor of being awarded the Silver Beaver, Scouting's top honor.  But his great Scouting accomplishment was seeing his son earn is Eagle Scout award. Tom is also involved with Kiwanis, the Catholic Church, the Wishing Well Fund and Alpha Phi Omega service organization. Tom is committed to improving the lives of others and dedicated to his employees and community.

EP70 Getting an early start in the trades with Elana and Jordan Day (March 2022)01 Apr 202200:20:13

The title for this episode could mean a couple things:

  • "Getting an early start" as in developing an early morning routine
  • "Getting an early start" as in beginning to learn the trades in high school

 

Well, Elana Day takes the second meaning to an extreme.

 

Join us as Elana and her dad, Jordan, describe how she has become a LinkedIn phenom with a video of hers gathering thousands of views in a very short time.

 

Elana started at age 5 and now, at age 9 has quite a repertoire of projects completed.

 

You'll enjoy hearing from Jordan, a licensed Master Plumber and Certified HVAC technician who employs the elements of Greek Pedagogy in raising his family.

 

Elana follows excellent safety practices and works hard to learn improve her skills. Yet, she is a "regular kid" who is just drawn to do this.

 

Jordan is an Autodidact – a term you may have heard Bryan Orr use before.

Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autodidacticism



You can find Elana doing her thing on YouTube at this link
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1PLmZrxcVu09_rWjy1YkmA

 

Or by searching for Lil'MissFixIt on YouTube 

 

You'll also find her dad, Jordan Day on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-day-93590220b/

 

…where he recently posted about Elana:

"This International Women's Day, I would like to give a shoutout to my amazing daughter. She is 9 years old and wants to become an engineer, but she also has strong interests in the skilled trades. When it comes to her future career, her hobbies, her interests and yes, even her worldview, I do my best to let her carve her own path. I feel that she has already taught me more than I could ever teach her."

 

This episode was recorded in March 2022.

EP69 From particle accelerators to radon measurement, the Airthings story with Erlend Bolle (Jan 2022)18 Mar 202200:30:22

This is my first interview with a founder of a publicly traded company and my second interview with a European guest!

 

Meet Erlend Bolle, whose life journey took him from working at CERN to a building a global, publicly traded company that innovates consumer and professional grade radon and indoor Air quality Monitors.

 

His team's initial goal was to create a product relevant for all in volume production that improves people's health.

 

Learn how the team at Airthings works to understand consumer needs as society, homes and the world changes over time.

 

CERN details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CERN

27 kM (16.77 mile) diameter particle accelerator



You can find Erlend on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erlendbolle/

 

And learn more about this company, AirThings here: https://www.airthings.com/



And see his products for sale at TruTech Tools, here: https://www.trutechtools.com/Airthings



This episode was recorded in January 2022.

EP68 Sustainability for homes with Brett Little11 Mar 202200:34:31

Brett approaches sustainability with thoughtfulness and enthusiasm.

 

He is the Program Manager at GreenHome Institute, has been involved in residential sustainability since 2008, and holds a bachelor's in Sustainable Business. 

 

Brett has provided consulting and verification services on thousands of residential green-certified living spaces and certified four projects as a LEED Green Rater. Brett oversees education services providing training or moderations for hundreds of events with thousands of attendees. 

 

Brett lives with his family in West Michigan in a GreenStar certified home targeting zero carbon in 2021. His mission is to help you build, BETTER.

 

Additionally, he takes personal steps along these lines and share his experiences.

 

Learn about his radon monitoring experiences here: https://www.airthings.com/resources/brett-radon-story

 

He shares is Carbon Zero Home renovation journey here: https://www.buildwithrise.com/stories/financing-a-carbon-zero-home-renovation



You can find Brett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-little-0b3ab71b/

 

Brett's day job is Program Manager at the Green Home Institute: https://greenhomeinstitute.org/



This episode was recorded in January 2022.

EP67 Residential HVAC design has not changed much in 20+ years with Russ King (Aug 2021)04 Mar 202200:41:00

Russ King is a rare breed.

 

He is equally inventor, author (both technical and fiction), software developer, design practitioner, instructor and installer.

 

Above all that, he is passionate, thoughtful, kind, smart and loves to share what he knows.

 

If you get a chance, go see Russ present some time.

 

You can find Russ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-king-m-e-70342913/

 

He's got a really cool blog with an awesome tagline:
"Offering good advice, whether you want it or not."

https://russellking.me/

 

Russ and his son Connor have developed an awesome modeling tool: www.KwikModel.com

 

This episode was recorded in August 2021.

EP66 The Art & Science of Healthy Homes with Joe Medosch25 Feb 202200:46:53

Joe is one of the coolest guys I know.

He probably doesn't think of himself that way.

 

He's been so influential in changing the perception and understanding of IAQ and healthy homes in the last few years.

 

And he is SO PASSIONATE about getting people to understand.

He is always testing products and building props and animations to teach others.

 

If you get a chance, go see Joe present some time.

 

You can find Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemedosch



You can learn more about the Hayward Score at: www.HaywardScore.com

 

 

This episode was recorded in Dec 2021.

EP65 Let's talk mold with Jason Earle (January 2022)18 Feb 202200:36:57

Jason Earle of GotMold.com gives a fascinating tour of his personal journey and how he ended up breaking the price barrier for lab testing of mold in the air.

 

Jason has set up a special landing page for our listeners:

https://www.gotmold.com/trutech

 

AND… a 10% discount code just for you! Trutech10



This episode was recorded in January 2022.

EP64 All houses are different, some can be deadly with Paul Raymer (Sept 2021)11 Feb 202200:38:46

Paul's a unique, but complex man: equal parts scientist, inventor, business owner, practitioner, and author.

 

Paul's technical website is https://www.heyokasolutions.com/aboutus.asp and his publishing website is https://www.paulhraymer.com/, Salty Air Publishing

 

The Residential Ventilation Handbook is a must read for those in building science.

 

This episode was recorded in Sept 2021.

EP63 The History and Mission of UEi with Michael Kane (Sept 2021)04 Feb 202200:39:25

I'm so happy to bring the voice, thoughts, and ideas of Michael Kane to the Building HVAC Podcast!

 

You'll hear about the art and process of product development that has evolved through 2 generations of ownership of this family business. 

 

Michael is a man of patience and empathy and greatly respects the dignity, value and skill of the trades, He hopes to create the best products for people in the trades to better do their jobs.

 

You can learn more about UEI products at Michael's website: www.UEitest.com or at www.TruTechtools.com/UEi 

 

This episode was recorded in Sept 2021.

EP62 The Next Evolution in Healthy Air with Dawn Oggier & Brian Kennihan28 Jan 202200:38:24

Since January is Radon awareness month, I've invited 2 people deeply involved in the Radon industry to be my guests today.

 

Dawn Oggier, is Manager of Market Development for RadonAway and 

National Director for AARST – the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (https://aarst.org/)

 

Brian Kennihan is the Business Development Manager for AprilAire.

 

If you are catching this episode before or during your visit to the 2022 AHR Expo you can visit with both guests!


Dawn at booth N8617: Spruce Environmental Technologies

And

Brian at booth C3706: AprilAire a Division of Research Products

 

LinkedIn connections:

Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-oggier-3276481a3/

Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-kennihan-ba3677b3/

 

You can learn more about their organizations:
Spruce Environmental Technologies/ RadonAway: https://www.radonaway.com/

 

AprilAire Radon products at: www.aprilairepartners.com/




This episode was recorded in Jan 2022.

EP169 From Attics to Airwaves: Tony Mormino's HVAC Journey (May 2024)07 Jun 202400:28:56

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Tony Mormino, the Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Insight Partners, an HVAC commercial rep firm operating in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Tony shares his journey in the HVAC industry, which started 25 years ago when he helped his father, a residential HVAC technician. Seeking a different path, Tony pursued an engineering degree and eventually transitioned into HVAC sales. The onset of COVID-19 pushed him into marketing as he sought ways to maintain customer engagement online, leading to his current role.

Tony explains that Insight Partners represents about 60 manufacturers in the Carolinas, providing sales, support, and parts for commercial HVAC equipment. They assist engineers with designing systems, offering various equipment options and supporting the installation and maintenance processes. Tony emphasizes their commitment to educating and empowering the HVAC community through online tools and social media. He highlights the importance of providing valuable content that benefits the audience rather than promoting the company directly, using interactive posts and educational materials to engage followers.

The discussion also touches on Tony's podcast, the Engineers HVAC Podcast, which aims to offer professional development hours (PDHs) to engineers, particularly those in New York and New Jersey. Tony and the hosts discuss the evolving nature of marketing and content creation, the role of AI in enhancing productivity, and the importance of authenticity in content. Tony encourages the HVAC community to give back and support each other, emphasizing the value of constructive feedback and mutual growth in the industry.

 


Tony's Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-mormino/

insightusa.com/ (Company)

anchor.fm/engineers-hvac-podcast (Podcast)

youtube.com/InsightPartnersHVACTV  (YouTube channel)

 

This episode was recorded in March 2024.

EP61 A unique approach to efficient urban housing with Brian Gaudio (July 2019)21 Jan 202200:30:00

Brian is on a mission with this company, Module Housing.

Their tag line says it all:

Designed for people and planet powered by offsite construction.

Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briangaudio/

Or via his website: https://www.modulehousing.com/

 

This episode was recorded in July 2019.

EP60: Inside Inficon with Bob Belvick (July 2020)06 Aug 202100:31:06

"Research is to see what everybody else has seen, 

and to think what nobody else has thought."

 

Albert Szent-Gyorgyi 





I'm certain many of our listeners have had ideas for products of their own. 

 

Trade practitioners are clever and innovative on the job and so, able to see new ways to "connect the dots" and solve a problem.

 

How do you go from idea to successful product on the market?

 

How long does it take to develop award winning products?



Today we are joined by Bob Belvick, Product Manager for the HVACR Service Tools division of Inficon, a publicly traded, diversified industrial giant with HQ in Switzerland.

 

Bob shares his background story and talks about INFICON's other industries and what makes them different from competitors.  

 

Bob focuses in on refrigerant leak detectors, one of the specialties of Inficon dating back to the 1969 founding of the company by scientists and engineers from GE and Syracuse University.

 

He takes us on a walkthrough of the product development process: eg. capturing customer needs, integrating technologies, analyzing the market, alpha and beta testing, working with his development team, to give us an overview of the complexities and time it takes to do it right – that is an Inficon characteristic!

 

Among many other tidbits, Bob also shares with us how they arrived at the name INFICON.

 

For more info on Inficon HVAC products go to: www.inficon.com/en/markets/air-conditioning

 

You'll also find Inifcon HVAC products at www.TruTechtools.com/Inficon

 

This episode was recorded in July 2020.

EP59: How I built Halco with Hal Smith (Dec 2019)30 Jul 202100:30:18

"Repetition makes reputation and reputation makes customers."

 

Elizabeth Arden





Fortune may come knocking, but sometimes the sound is very faint, almost imperceptible.

 

When someone takes you under their wing, how do you know if that's where you want to be?

 

If the bug to start your own business bites, what do you do next? Where can you learn from others' experience and insights?



We're pleased to welcome the very successful HVAC contractor Hal Smith to the podcast.

 

Hal shares with us the story of how he started and grew Halco Energy. We learn the ups and downs of growing an HVAC, Plumbing, (and more) contracting business in a mostly rural area of NY State with just 1-2 competitors.

 

Hal uses straightforward thinking and simple insights to create a business where the goal is to earn customers for life.

 

We also hear where Hal gains new perspectives and insights including the way he "snacks on learning." 

 

Hal is a hands-on business operator who knows and communicates with his customers.



Hal Smith is founder and owner of HALCO Energy in Phelps, NY servicing Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse, The Finger Lakes and surrounding areas of upstate NY.

 

For more info go to: www.HalcoEnergy.com



This episode was recorded in December 2019.

EP58: Genry Garcia: An inspiring contractor's story (June 2021)23 Jul 202100:29:41

"I can't change the direction of the wind,

but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination."

 

Jimmy Dean



Many of the people I meet in the industry have interesting stories.

There are struggles and challenges in all their lives, our lives.

 

What if a real police state was limiting your options in life?

 

How would you direct your will? Your desire? Your drive to achieve?



I met our guest today, Genry Garcia during the AHR Expo in Orlando in January 2020.

                                                                                                                                             As I learned more about him, I found his story truly inspirational.

 

Genry is thoughtful, honest, and avid self-learner. He's also a successful business owner and devoted family man.

 

While it now makes total sense, based on his approach to customers, I did not learn until lately that Genry has done degree work in psychology.



Genry owns Comfort Dynamics, Inc. in Miami, FL.

 

This episode was recorded in June 2021.

 

 

EP57: IAQ Devices & Technology Perspectives from the Isle of Man with Big Clive16 Jul 202100:45:29

"Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

 

Arthur C. Clarke



The topic of how to manage and improve indoor air quality comes up a lot lately.

 

With all this interest come the offer of many "solutions" and devices.

 

Wish you could learn the back story of and technology inside some of these devices?

 

Ever wonder about the international perspectives on the topic of IAQ?



The Building HVAC Science podcast is pleased to welcome our very first guest from another continent!

 

Listen in as Clive Mitchell, better know as Big Clive, gives us his perspectives on a spectrum of IAQ improvement products from beneficial to downright dangerous.

 

If you have not seen his YouTube Channel, you need to stop and look up BigCliveDotCom on YouTube. He's published thousands of dissection-like, teardown videos on a wide range of electrical and electronic products over the last 13 years.

 

Clive largely focuses on "cheap junk" teardowns and publishes a video every 2 days. Yet he also finds time to ponder such challenging societal questions like:

"Does pineapple belong on pizza?"

"What happens when you re-distill Jägermeister?"

 

He calls it the trashiest electronics channel on YouTube. Based on feedback, the bulk of his over 800,0000 subscribers seem to agree.

 

Big Clive lives on the Isle of Mann, a 221 sq. mile island with population of 83,000 located in the Irish Sea.



This episode was recorded in May 2021.

EP 56 School IAQ and Astrophotography with Steve Pascuzzo from Testo (Jan 2021)09 Jul 202100:40:06

"Astronomy's much more fun when you're not an astronomer."

 

Brian May



COVID-19 has impacted the way people interact for many months.

Especially the way people interact with each other in spaces outside their homes.

 

What do the air quality scientists have to say about the management of indoor air?

 

What kind of measurements are significant and important?

 

Will this pandemic impact the way we do things in HVAC after it subsides?



Steve Pascuzzo, manager of testo's commercial division, joins us to discuss indoor air quality metrics, with a keen focus on managing the return to schools after COVID-19.

 

Steve also shares with us his background, career path and his keen intertest in astrophotography and shares with us the 7 unusual features of Oumuamua - the first known interstellar object detected passing through our Solar System.

 

Here is the link to the ASHRAE guideline for reopening schools and universities as mentioned in the podcast:

 

https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/reopening-of-schools-and-universities

 

To learn more about testo products visit: www.TruTechTools.com/testo

 

This episode was recorded in January 2021.

EP55: SpohnHome: The Energy Vanguard Investigates (Apr. 2021)02 Jul 202100:45:30

"When you are enthusiastic about what you do, you feel this positive energy. 

It's very simple."

 

Paulo Coelho



The construction is finished. Bill and Mairlyn moved in months ago.

 

What's it been like for Bill living inside his theories?

 

Were any late course corrections necessary? Any regrets?



In this podcast, recorded in April 2021, our friend Allison Bailes (The Energy Vanguard) becomes host and interviews/investigates if the SpohnHome as truly a high-performance home. 

 

Bill and Allison exchange thoughts on a variety of topics:

    A house needs to breathe

Air as a bodily fluid

Mean (and nice?) radiant temperatures and naked people

Various proven (and some sketchy) means for improving indoor air quality

Our favorite & reliable sources for information

What's a Comparetto Cube?

And more!

 

Bill shares updates on what it's like living inside his theories.

 

To learn more about the project you can follow Bill's blog at www.SpohnHome.com

 

This episode was recorded in April 2021.

EP54: SpohnHome Interview of Bill Spohn hosted by Nate Adams of HVAC 2.0 (May 2020)25 Jun 202100:50:20

"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, 

or believe to be beautiful."

 

William Morris



His head has been wrapped up in building and HVAC performance since the late 1980s. 

 

How does he sort through bringing his personal vision for his own home to reality?

 

What's it like actually living inside your theories?



In this podcast, recorded in May 2020, our friend Nate Adams (from HVAC 2.0) becomes host and interviews Bill Spohn (normally this podcast's host) on the journey he and Marilyn have taken setting out to build a high performance, likely NetZero, home.

 

Listen in to hear what influences he used in making design and construction decisions. Hear of the goals he and his wife set at the beginning and how close they came to achieving them.

 

Bill openly describes his thoughts on the challenges they encountered and how well the plans are working out at the time of this recording, when the house is in the final stages of finishing, but they have not yet moved in.

 

To learn more about the project you can follow Bill's blog at www.SpohnHome.com

 

 

 

This episode was recorded in May 2020.

EP53: Pearl Certification for HVAC- Throw Shade on Your Competition with Cynthia Adams & Robin LeBaron18 Jun 202100:42:08

 

"Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others."

Jonathan Swift

 

Listeners to this podcast know, it is often very hard to explain what it is we do.

 

When I try to explain this, people's' eyes and ears glaze over as I get into the technical descriptions of the invisible elements that make a home more comfortable, safer, healthier and energy efficient.

 

(Wait, can an ear actually glaze over? I think 've done it.)

 

What if there were an independent, third party means to capture and make visible the values we build into high performance homes and retrofits?

 

 

 

In this episode, co-founders Cynthia Adams and Robin Lebaron join us to explain how Pearl Certification is truly transforming the housing market.

 

They're on a mission to make visible the invisible aspects that contractors know about. The elements that make all the difference in the comfort, health, safety, resilience, and energy efficiency of a home.

 

They are achieving this by qualifying an elite network of contractors and real estate professionals. These professionals work to improve home performance and ensure Pearl Certified homes are properly marketed and valued.

 

This isn't a one and done effort. As your customers improve their homes, they continue to get credit for these improvements over time. The value of their high-performing home becomes visible at the time of appraisal for refinance or sale.

 

This is a nationwide for homeowners and the businesses that serve them with 45,695 homes Pearl Certified, so far.

 

I encourage you to learn more about become Pearl Certification contractor:

http://pearlcertification.com/contractors/

 

And here is information for Homeowners:

http://pearlcertification.com/homeowners/

 

We have had guests from Pearl join us on this podcast before:

Episode 14: CarFax for Homes with Bethany Profaizer and Amy Beley (1-17-18)

Episode 18: HabitatX Reflections with Robin LeBaron (7-5-18)

 

This episode was recorded in April 2021.

EP52: Technology in HVAC, Driving Contractor Wins with Joe Samel (SensiPredict - Emerson) & Sam Troyer (Comfort Zone, Inc)11 Jun 202100:27:08

"Data, data everywhere, and not a place to sync!"

Eric Preston



Sensor data and oftentimes, the corresponding analytics are popping up everywhere you look.

 

What is happening in the HVAC world? 

 

In newer systems there are some options; most on the high end. 

 

But are there any reliable solutions that address more basic systems and the aftermarket?


Here comes SensiPredict by Emerson.

 

 

 

Emerson has designed a full eco system that helps to deliver new benefits for contractors; benefits that homeowner value and are driving contractors wins. Providing peace of mind for both!

 

These smart diagnostic tools have matured and now ensure verified installations and as well as remote fault detection. 

 

Joe Samel (Emerson) and successful Florida contractor Sam Troyer (Comfort Zone, Inc) describe for us real world experience with this impressive new technology that helps to differentiate Sam's pitch and his services.  

 

Contractors, like Sam, are using technology to successful separate their companies against their competition.

 

Learn more about the product here:

https://climate.emerson.com/en-us/brands/sensi/sensi-predict-for-contractors

 

SensiPredict is available at leading distributors across the US and at https://www.trutechtools.com/sensi 



This episode was recorded in March 2021.

EP168 Unveiling HVAC Mastery: A Journey of Skill and Passion with Matt Akins (MARCH 2024)31 May 202400:15:17

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Eric introduces Matt Akins, the Manager of HVAC Education at the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), as they delve into Matt's journey within the HVAC industry. Matt's career trajectory, starting as a dispatcher for an HVAC company at 19, took him through various roles, from technician to operations manager. His pivotal moment came when he compared his paycheck to a technician's, realizing the value of education and skill development in the field. 

Through hands-on experience and formal education at a technical college, Matt gained comprehensive knowledge of HVAC systems and operations, from dispatching to troubleshooting. Despite the challenges and physical demands of the job, Matt's passion for teaching emerged, driven by a desire to share his expertise and improve industry practices.

Transitioning into teaching was a natural progression for Matt, fueled by his deep-rooted commitment to elevating the standards within the HVAC community. His multifaceted background equipped him with a unique perspective, allowing him to bridge the gap between technical intricacies and practical application. Through his role at ACCA, Matt now spearheads the development of training materials and conducts workshops covering a broad spectrum of topics, from system design to sales techniques. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of education within the HVAC industry, inspiring fellow practitioners to continually strive for excellence and innovation.

 


Matt's Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-akins-66651a188/

ACCA Website: https://acca.org/home

 

This episode was recorded in March 2024.

EP51: NH Saves NetZero Home Challenge (Jan 2021) with Joe Rando and Adam Nyborg04 Jun 202100:36:36

"Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships."

Michael Jordan

 

Years ago if someone said to me:

 "I'm building a Net Zero home."

 

I would have thought, 

"What are they giving up doing so?"

 

Fast Forward to 2021:

In addition to me living in a prospective Net Zero Home (check out other episodes of this podcast), there are now several national Net Zero competitions with utilities, raters, builders and homeowners working together to raise public awareness of this accelerating trend showcasing the benefits of building beyond code requirements.

Join us to hear Adam Nyborg (Tilia Restoration- the builder) and Joe Rando, a senior engineering assistant and HERS rater with GDS Associates, describe the Drive to Net Zero Competition in New Hampshire.

We learn about the guests' background as well as get up to speed on details of the 2019 winning design, the process, and the competition.

Mike Loughlin from Eversource (the utility sponsor for the 2019 winner) offers his contact info for anyone considering developing such a program in their area: Michael.Loughlin@Eversource.com

For more info:

https://nhsaves.com/blog/winning-drive-to-net-zero-competition-homes-combine-comfort-and-savings-2/

This episode was recorded in January 2021

EP50: Why you should attend the National Home Performances Conference with Steve Byers (EnergyLogic) & Peter Troast (EnergyCircle)25 Mar 202100:18:12

"Tell me and I forget. 

Teach me and I remember.

Involve me and I learn

Ben Franklin



Bill is joined by Peter Troast of the Energy Circle and Steve Byers of Energy Logic to share their many reasons for attending the National Home Performance Conference year after year.

 

Sign up for the 2021 National Home Performance Conference (all virtual) now at:

https://events.building-performance.org/national/

 

Learn more about our guests and their businesses at these links:

 

Energy Logic: https://theenergylogic.com/

 

Energy Circle: https://www.energycircle.com/

 

TruTechTools: www.TruTechTools.com

 

EP49: A unique air quality monitor for the home with Ben Reed (TZOA) & Kaleb Saleeby (HVAC School)05 Feb 202100:53:22

 

"I've been struck again and again 

by how important measurement is to improving the human condition."

Bill Gates



Lend us your ears as Kaleb and Bill have a very fun interview with Ben Reed, VP of Products at TZOA, a relative new comer to the world of measurement products.

 

TZOA's approach with the Haven product is totally unique: a retrofittable residential air quality monitor that lives inside the central air handler and can control 1 or 2 systems that can impact air quality.

 

Not just measurements/sensors, but control/solutions.

 

This product is exclusively available to qualified contractors and is NOT a DIY device.

 

In addition to a great streamlined product, the dashboard is AMAZING, largely due to the tight ties between the contractor-beta testers and clever product developers.

 

Learn more at these links:

 

Tzoa: https://tzoa.com/

 

HVACRSchool: www.HVACRSchool.com

 

The Haven product: https://www.trutechtools.com/haven-central-air-monitor.html




This episode was recorded in December 2020.

EP48 Buildings & Health. An interview with Dr. Stephanie Taylor27 Nov 202000:34:43

"He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything."

Thomas Carlyle



Bill was honored to welcome Dr. Stephanie Taylor to the podcast where she shares the fascinating story of her career path from medicine to architecture to crusading for better building health by bridging these professional silos.

 

He had a great time interviewing Stephanie, plumbing the depths of her knowledge and experience. We discuss many aspects of IAQ and focus in on the impact of humidity on human health.

 

A key takeaway is our discussion of the invisible impact of a building on one's health.

 

You can learn more about her work at www.40to60RH.com or follow her on LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-h-taylor-md-march-frsph-uk-cabe-ashrae-d-l-b6456b8



This episode was recorded in November 2020.

EP47 Insights from ENCON: A Unique, Generational Mechanical Contractor20 Nov 202000:28:10

"The family is one of nature's masterpieces."

George Santayana



Bill is joined Marty and David Indursky, a father and son team that have built Encon, an award winning, NJ-based HVAC/building solutions company.

 

Hear how David has reinvigorated the company by implementing modern technology techniques after he took it over from his father who founded ENCON in 1968.

 

They share best practices and what sets ENCON apart.

We also hear about and what David envisions for the future of the industry. 

You can follow Encon via their website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook or YouTube.

 

https://enconmech.com

https://www.instagram.com/enconmech/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/encon-mech                    

https://www.facebook.com/enconmech

https://www.youtube.com/enconmech

 

This episode was recorded in August 2020.

EP46 A new refrigerant born from science and sweat with Peter Capuciati Founder of Bluon01 May 202000:37:14

"I grew up thinking that a research scientist was a natural thing to be."

Stephen Hawking

There's physical science. And there's a kind of science as to how the mind works and how people achieve their dreams.

Blend one-part plasma fusion physics with one-part commercial real estate and stir this in an open and creative mind and you have Peter Capuciati, the Chairman and Founder of Bluon and the guest of today's podcast.

Starting in 2011, Peter has led the team at Bluon to develop a true solution for R-22 replacement. It's called TdX-20 (R-458a), something unlike anything the HVACR world has ever seen.

It truly is an energy saving product, as they are demonstrating amp draw decreases of 10-20% and increases in capacity of 3-6%.

We love digging into the science of HVAC in this podcast, and Peter is the perfect tour guide for the challenging journey of creating a refrigerant chemistry that has been proven to perform in about 80% of R-22 systems. This is backed up by real-world testing on equipment, not just simulations

After an easy, free registration and testing process, techs can gain full access to the operating manuals of over 22,000 types of R-22 units as well as individual retrofit instructions and compatibility ratings for each unit.

Beyond all this, Bluon provides the training, know-how and demonstrates (sometimes in person) the skills necessary to successful do a successful conversion.

If this sounds like a commercial for Bluon, it sort of is, as we sell Bluon at TruTech Tools.

However, this is exactly the kind of product we love selling; smart, well supported and one that relieves a major pain point for our customers. Plus, it's fun working with the energetic Ninja team at Bluon, or as Peter calls them the Analog Renaissance Cowboys.

You can learn more about Bloun at www.BluonEnergy.com and join the thousand technicians every month that are downloading and using the app.

EP45 Making Homes Perform better – HVAC tips with John Semmelhack06 Mar 202000:33:48

 

"The only think I have learnt over the years is that if you enjoy your work and put in best efforts it will show. If you follow this process, things work out. But if you go chasing a formula, success will elude you."

Mahesh Babu



While building his own house, John Semmelhack's innate curiosity grew as he researched the best was to design and build a home.

 

This lead him to start his own business, Think Little.

 

The name of his business is deceptive as John is truly a big thinker, who acts in quiet ways to create comfortable, energy efficient and durable homes that have excellent indoor air quality.

 

Lend us your ears to learn how following simple, yet important processes lead to amazing results. 

 

We discuss HVAC Air filtration and why and how to get super-inexpensive, extremely effective filtration 

 

He employs test and measurement at every appropriate juncture as well as post work, continuous monitoring for IAQ, energy and comfort. These factors are easier to measure than ever before! 

 

John also reviews aspects of running this type of business including the variety of services he has developed over the years.

 

 

John Semmelhack is the owner of Think Little (www.think-little.com) and co-owner of Comparetto Comfort Solutions, a pair of home performance consulting and contracting firms based in Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia. Think Little specializes in building enclosure and mechanical system design and commissioning for single-family and multi-family Passive House and zero-net-energy homes in the mid-Atlantic. Comparetto Comfort Solutions focuses on high performance HVAC installations for new homes in the Charlottesville and Richmond markets, as well as home performance contracting to help meet clients' comfort, indoor air quality, durability and energy efficiency goals. 

EP44 What's new in Home Performance 2.0 with Nate Adams30 Aug 201900:55:28

"True genius lies not in doing the extraordinary things, but in doing ordinary things extraordinarily well."

General Louis H. Wilson, Jr.



Building science principles are few and fairly straightforward; ordinary, perhaps.

 

HAM: A lot of it amounts to control the flow of Heat, Air and Moisture.

 

But, like so many things in this world, the devil is in the details.



Listen in as I chat with my good friend Nate Adams (a true genius) to get an update on his extraordinarily execution of ordinary measures in his new concept of Home Performance 2.0.

 

This is a follow up to Episode 36, where I interview two of the HP 2.0 practitioners, Neil Comparetto and Michael Housh.

 

Measurements (so near and dear to my heart) are at the core of what he and his HP 2.0 army are all about.

 

For a more complete overview, tune in to a recording of his recent webinar on HP 2.0: www.bit.ly/NATE-HP20

 

Nate's book, The Home Comfort Book, is perfect for consumers or practitioners alike and can be found at TruTech Tools or on Amazon.

 

You can reach Nate at Nate@EnergySmartOhio.com.



EP43 Radon 101 with Dick Kornbluth23 Aug 201900:37:32

May the forces of evil become confused on the way to your house.

George Carlin



Yep, Radon is force of evil.

 

Pure evil.

Colorless.

Odorless.

Deadly.

 

But sneaky. It's deadly over decades.

 

My good friend Dick Kornbluth joins me to unravel the intricacies of all aspects of Radon – a colorless, odorless, poisonous radioactive gas.

 

Dick explains how and where radon is formed, how it gets into the air we breathe and the health impact it has on us.

 

He reveals where the famous 4 picocuries per liter exposure amount comes from, underscoring that there is NO SAFE LEVEL.

 

The US EPA has a treasure trove of information on Radon at www.epa.gov/radon

 

Dick shares with us his extensive and practical experience in how radon gas moves through a structure, how it is measured and how Radon mitigation systems work along with a note about radon resistant construction.

 

Dick is very engaged in the home performance world, and believes an improved understanding of Radon is key part of the home performance goals of healthy, more durable and energy efficient homes and buildings.

 

You can reach Dick at Dick@DickKornbluth.com

 

TruTechTools carries a broad array of radon detectors.

Learn more at this link: https://www.trutechtools.com/radon




EP42 Smart buildings and HVAC Controls- News you can use with Eric Stromquist of ControlTalkNow Podcast16 Aug 201900:36:19

 

I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.

Jimmy Dean



While we picked a specific topic, this is a wide-ranging episode with my friend in the industry, Eric Stromquist of Stromquist.com – 2nd generation controls distributor based out of Atlanta, GA.



We discuss our thoughts and opinions on:

How hard it is to actually get access to people – cold calling is basically dead

Closed vs. open architecture in building automation systems

C suite execs focus on productivity, which ties in to all building systems

How the internet has changed the way information is shared- knowledge hoarding is done

The psychological effects of improper lighting

And much, much more.

 

Eric teams up with Ken Smyers to manage a ton of educational and informative resources centered around building controls and automation that you will find at  www.ControlTrends.org They even have their own Awards ceremony that takes place before the AHR Expo!

 

Eric is an avid podcaster and actually had me on his show in Episode 311!

YouTube link: http://bit.ly/YT-ControlTrendsBS 

Podcast link http://bit.ly/ControlTrendBS  starting 31:39

EP167 Tech Meets Trades Wyatt Smith's Mission to Modernize Workforce Productivity (APRIL 2024)24 May 202400:35:59

In this episode of the "Building HVACScience" podcast, Wyatt Smith, founder and CEO of Upsmith, joined hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser to discuss his company's innovative approach to tackling America's skilled worker shortage. Wyatt detailed how Upsmith develops software aimed at enhancing productivity in the trades industry by using strategic technology to manage and improve workforce performance. He emphasized the importance of aligning employee behavior with company goals to drive profitability, especially given the challenges such as high interest rates and market uncertainty heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the podcast, Wyatt elaborated on the specific functionalities of Upsmith's software, which rewards tradespeople for their performance in real-time. This system not only increases productivity but also boosts morale by acknowledging and incentivizing workers' contributions. He shared insights on the impact of the pandemic, where many postponed home improvement projects were expedited, leading to a temporary surge in demand that pulled forward future opportunities, creating a more competitive environment for trades companies today.

Wyatt also discussed his personal journey from a farm in Alabama to leading a tech company, reflecting on the influence of his upbringing and education. He stressed the transformative power of technology in vocational training and workforce development, highlighting Upsmith's role in fostering meaningful careers in the trades. The conversation also touched on broader industry trends, including the shift towards digital solutions to enhance service quality and employee engagement, underscoring the critical role of supportive technologies in the evolving landscape of skilled trades.

 

Wyatt's Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-h-smith/

UpSmith website: https://upsmith.com

This episode was recorded in April 2024.

EP 41 Great Indoor Air Quality Can Improve Your Health with Ty Newell of Build Equinox09 Aug 201900:45:54

To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.

Buddha



HVAC and building performance contractors are seeing more homes built or retrofit to tighter levels. Blower door test outs like 3, 2, 1 ACH50 or less.

 

What do you do when the "house can't breathe?"

 

Hopefully, you see the humor in that statement.

 

Of course - you build it tight and ventilate it right! 

 

(Credit for that phrase likely goes to Earle Perera and Lynn Parkins as the title for their article in the June 1992 Building Services Journal a UK publication)

 

Listen in as Ty Newell founder of BuildEquinox shares with us how he got to the point of feeling the need to create his own ventilation product, the CERV2: Conditioning Energy Recovery Ventilator.

 

This unique product senses when to run, ventilates or recirculates the "fresh air stores" in the space using a small variable output heat pump. It incorporates slick controls and internet connectivity.

 

Plus, I cannot wait to be using it the new high-performance home we are building for occupancy by the summer of 2020.

 

Learn more about the product and more importantly the philosophies behind the product by surfing over to www.BuildEquinox.com

 

The BuildEquinox site has numerous white papers, tech specs & installation info, recording and upcoming webinars and more. You can also learn about the net zero house (which includes the CERV 1) that Ty built.

EP40 Why You need to Pay Attention to National Standards Affecting HVAC Installations with Jeremy Begley01 Aug 201900:52:17

In this age of high technology and Jedi Knights, we often overlook the need of personal involvement, but we do so at our own risk.

William H. McRaven (American Solider)


Attention all HVAC Techs:

Soon someone will be looking over your shoulder.

 

Not it's not the Homeowner, with severe coffee breath and a million little questions, it's going to be a Home Energy Rater giving a grade to your HVAC installation.

 

What???!!!

 

Yes, like it or not, this will happen.

 

And it is justified.

 

It's because the work done by HVAC Technicians is so important; important to the occupant's comfort, safety and health as well as their utilities bills AND the utility companies in general as they try to balance the supply and demand of energy. 

 

Residential HVAC energy demand is a big topic in the utility world. (We'll do a podcast on this later.)

 

Listen in as Jeremy Begley of HVAC Design Partners of Cincinnati, OH shares with us how paying attention to standards as helped to shape his entrepreneurial career. Specifically, the upcoming ACCA/RESNET standard on Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems.

 

One timely note here: the comment period on the first draft of a new RESNET standard (BSR/RESNET/ACCA 310-201x, Standard for Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems) closes on Aug 6, 2019. If you want to review and/or comment go to this link ASAP www.bit.ly/RESNET-ACCA-310

 

Jeremy's got a lot to share with the both the HVAC and Building Performance industries. He came on the podcast to encourage others to review and engage in this and other important HVAC Standards.

 

The methodology in the standard has five steps – a design review, a total duct leakage test, a Blower Fan CFM test, a Blower Fan watt draw test, and a non-invasive evaluation of refrigerant charge (NIST found in MeasureQuick). These five tasks should be completed in sequence and upon completion the results are evaluated for compliance with thresholds. The result of this process is anywhere from a failing system to a grade 1, 2, or 3; with 1 being the top grade and all grades yielding extra points in the HERS rating.

 

Besides being important to HERS ratings, it is basic physics and the methods described have positive impact outside of the rating world.

 

Learn more about the standard itself by going to http://bit.ly/RESNET-310-INFO, where you will find a link to RESNET conference slides on this topic and a link to the other podcast I host, RESTALK, where I interviewed Wes Davis (ACCA) and Den Gamble (EPA) on this standard.

 

If you want to learn more about the services and training (coming) that Jeremy offers you can reach out via the contact form on his website: www.HVACDesignPartners.com

EP39 Learn about HVACR Chemicals & Sealants with Mike Walton of CoolAir Products11 Feb 201900:23:20

Looking to be a better HVACR Tech?

 

One key aspect is keeping up to date with changing equipment, products and techniques.

And that is no mean feat.

 

In order to do so, you need to help yourself to training and education where ever you can get it.

Like this podcast… especially because it is on a lesser known topic: HVACR Chemicals and sealants.

 

Mike Walton of CoolAir Products in Maryland, joins us on this episode to focus on 2 of the products he has brought to the US market: AC SmartSeal External- a line and coil repair product and AC SmartSeal Quick Shot, the 3 in 1 internal seal, lube and leak check dye. Interestingly, these two products work best together.

 

Mike discusses how and why he formed the company starting in his garage in 2014.

 

He describes his company's focus on the technician, by making products that are safe, effective, and easy to use.  

Part of this ease of use comes because all products are 100 % safe to the touch, non-toxic and non-flammable.  That means no warning labels and for our friends in California, no prop 65 issues. Plus, he backs up the product with 3rd party lab testing by Intertek

 

Mike's got a lot to share with the industry.

 

You can buy Mike's products at wholesalers across the US or online at www.trutechtools.com/Cool-Air-Products



If you want to learn more you can reach out to Mike at www.CoolAirProducts.net or MikeWalton@CoolAirProducts.net

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