HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs – Details, episodes & analysis

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HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

Bryan Orr

Business

Education

Frequency: 1 episode/4d. Total Eps: 931

Real training for HVAC ( Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) Technicians. Including recorded tech training, interviews, diagnostics and general conversations about the trade.

Site

RSS

Apple

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Apple Podcasts

🇨🇦 Canada - careers
20/08/2026
#20
🇺🇸 USA - careers
20/08/2026
#22
🇨🇦 Canada - careers
19/08/2026
#21
🇺🇸 USA - careers
19/08/2026
#17
🇨🇦 Canada - careers
18/08/2026
#89
🇺🇸 USA - careers
18/08/2026
#28
🇨🇦 Canada - careers
17/08/2026
#40
🇺🇸 USA - careers
17/08/2026
#26
🇨🇦 Canada - careers
16/08/2026
#52
🇺🇸 USA - careers
16/08/2026
#29

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/bryan-orr-3/hvac-school
506 shares
https://hvacrschool.com/calculators/
416 shares
https://hvacrschool.com/symposium
414 shares

https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmMtP2_3aVvsMZLKpPLW3GIal8h5oYe6
166 shares
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdLlUhD9LUGm0-NTYDASPFA
166 shares
https://www.youtube.com/@HVACS
86 shares

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Score global : 48%

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Pumping vs. Compression - Short #218

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 • Duration 09:32

In this short episode, Bryan clears up the confusion behind pumping vs. compression.

Pumping is usually associated with liquid. Liquid, like vapor, is a fluid, but it's a lot denser and is essentially incompressible because the molecules are close together. Liquid volume varies based on temperature and density, but we can't squish the molecules together. That's why compressors with very little axial and radial compliance fail when flooded; they can't compress the liquid. A circulator pump in a hydronic system is an example of a pump that pushes liquid along, but the pressure difference across the pump is minimal compared to that of a compressor; the same is true of liquid vs. vapor CO2.

However, vapor molecules are far apart and can be squished together to take up a smaller volume. That's why vapor can go through compressors, which take a fluid of one volume and apply pressure to shrink it to a smaller volume, raising the temperature in the process. Pneumatics, as opposed to hydraulics, utilize compression to move vapor around in a circuit. Recovery machines need to be able to compress vapor refrigerant and pump liquid into the recovery tank.

Compressors and pumps can either be positive displacement or non-positive displacement systems. A positive displacement system creates a trap and forces a fixed amount of fluid through a system, like a scroll compressor or a circulator pump. Refrigerant volumes may vary because vapor density varies with temperature and pressure (the volume flow is the same, but the mass flow varies). A condensing fan motor, on the other hand, is dynamic and varies the volume of air it moves in response to pressure, as the mechanism relies on velocity and kinetic energy to move air.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium.

Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

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Deploying Surge Protection & Voltage Monitoring w/ DITEK

Thursday, November 14, 2024 • Duration 35:32

Bryan discusses surge protection devices (SPDs) with Mike from DITEK, focusing on practical applications for HVAC contractors and how to provide value to clients. Mike emphasizes that surge protection is essential for modern HVAC systems, particularly given that they are typically the most expensive appliance in a home and increasingly rely on sophisticated electronic components like variable-speed compressors and inverter boards.

The conversation delves into installation best practices, with a detailed discussion of proper wiring techniques for SPDs. Mike explains that surge protectors should be installed in parallel with the circuit, typically at the disconnect, and addresses common concerns about double-tapping lugs and ground connections. He emphasizes the importance of keeping wire lengths as short as possible and provides guidance for installations both with dedicated disconnects and panel-direct connections.

A significant portion of the episode focuses on DITEK's Kool Guard (KG2) product, which represents an evolution in HVAC protection by combining surge protection with voltage monitoring. Mike explains how modern HVAC equipment, particularly inverter-driven systems, is increasingly sensitive to both over-voltage and under-voltage conditions. The Kool Guard monitors voltage on each phase independently and provides visual indication of fault conditions through LED indicators, making it easier for homeowners to identify potential issues without opening electrical enclosures.

Key Topics Covered:

· Why every modern HVAC system needs surge protection

· Installation locations and proper wiring techniques for SPDs

· The difference between line-side and load-side installation

· Ground connection best practices

· How to protect both condensers and air handlers

· The evolution from basic surge protection to voltage monitoring

· The importance of voltage monitoring for modern inverter-driven equipment

· How Kool Guard monitors voltage phase-to-ground vs line-to-line

MCA is 27 and the Breaker is a 50A - Short #219

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 • Duration 06:11

In this short podcast episode, Bryan and Mike from DITEK talk about what to do in tricky electrical scenarios, such as when the MCA is 27 and you have a 50A breaker.

When you size an HVAC system for compatibility with voltage monitors, like the DITEK Kool Guard, you need to pay attention to the MCA (minimum circuit ampacity), which should not be confused with MOCP (maximum overcurrent protection or breaker size). As long as the MCA is 40 amps or lower, you can attach the HVAC condenser to the Kool Guard. The KG2 also accepts wire sizes up to 6 AWG.

The Kool Guard is NOT a source of overcurrent protection; it is a voltage monitor rated for carrying current, which means ratings will be in MCA, not MOCP. MOCP is designed to deal with high starting amps and lets users know the maximum allowable current for a circuit so that it can trip properly when that current is exceeded. According to Section 440 of the National Electrical Code (NEC), motors with internal overload protection allow for a difference between the MCA and MOCP. You may find higher MOCPs on inverter-driven systems.

Learn more about DITEK at https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

How to Predict Air Flow Issues in the Sales Process

Thursday, November 21, 2024 • Duration 46:44

Chris Hughes and Steve Rogers from The Energy Conservatory discuss TEC's TrueFlow technology and its crucial role in predicting airflow issues in the sales process, particularly for heat pump retrofits. They explain how the TrueFlow app helps contractors accurately measure both static pressure and airflow in existing systems, enabling them to predict whether proposed equipment changes will work effectively. This is especially vital when considering the growing trend of replacing gas furnaces with heat pumps, as the airflow requirements can differ significantly.

The conversation delves into a detailed example of replacing an 80% efficient 48,000 BTU furnace with a heat pump. They demonstrate how the airflow requirement would nearly double from 652 CFM to 1,200 CFM, potentially causing the static pressure to quadruple due to Fan Law 2 principles. This dramatic increase could lead to significant performance issues if not properly addressed during the system design phase. The experts emphasize that using TrueFlow during the sales process allows contractors to identify potential problems and necessary modifications before installation rather than discovering issues during callbacks.

The discussion also covers the ideal workflow for system assessment and sales, starting with customer comfort evaluation and proper load calculations. It's important to reduce loads through envelope improvements when possible, particularly in cold climates where heat pump retrofits are becoming more common. Proper system sizing often means going smaller rather than larger, contrary to common industry practices, and the worst HVAC systems are often found in expensive custom homes rather than tract housing.

Key Topics Covered:

TrueFlow technology and its role in system forecasting
Fan Law 2 and its impact on static pressure when changing airflow
Heat pump retrofit challenges and considerations
The importance of accurate load calculations
Dual fuel systems as a solution for cold climates
The relationship between airflow and static pressure
Sales process integration of technical measurements
Common issues with oversized equipment
The importance of envelope assessment
Methods for reducing system loads

What Can Be Done About Healthcare? w/ Ethos

Tuesday, November 26, 2024 • Duration 44:29

In this unique episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan interviews Donovan Ryckis, CEO of Ethos Benefits, diving deep into the complex world of healthcare financing and employee benefits. Ryckis shares his journey from financial advising to becoming a healthcare benefits consultant, driven by a mission to expose and transform the inherently problematic healthcare system.

The conversation reveals the stark inefficiencies in traditional healthcare models, where insurance companies and healthcare providers often prioritize profit over patient care. Ryckis explains how most employers have been led to believe they cannot control healthcare costs, accepting annual increases as inevitable. By applying a fiduciary approach—similar to financial advising—Ethos Benefits helps companies like Kalos dramatically reduce healthcare expenses while maintaining or improving employee care.

A key highlight of the discussion is the innovative strategies Ethos implements, such as negotiating directly with healthcare providers, exposing pharmacy benefit manager markup, and implementing direct primary care. These approaches not only reduce costs but also provide employees with better, more personalized healthcare experiences. The podcast demonstrates that by taking a transparent, data-driven approach, companies can create win-win healthcare solutions that benefit both the organization and its employees.

Key Topics Covered:

Healthcare financing vs. traditional insurance models
Pharmacy benefit manager markup and hidden costs
Negotiating medical claims and reducing excessive billing
Direct primary care and its benefits
Strategies for controlling healthcare expenses
Importance of transparency in healthcare pricing
The documentary "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare"
Challenges in the current healthcare system
Empowering employees through better healthcare options

Learn more about Ethos Benefits at https://ethosbenefits.com/ and the Ethos Effect Podcast at https://www.ethoseffectpodcast.com/.

Condensing Furnace Drain Guidance w/ AC Service Tech

Thursday, November 28, 2024 • Duration 38:57

Bryan and Craig Migliaccio (AC Service Tech)dive deep into the complexities of managing condensate drainage in high-efficiency (90%+) gas furnaces. The conversation begins with a clear explanation of why these furnaces produce condensate in the first place - they have two heat exchangers that extract so much heat from the combustion gases that water vapor condenses out. This condensate is acidic (pH 3-5) and requires special consideration for drainage and disposal.

The discussion explores various challenges contractors face when installing these systems, particularly in cold climates where freezing is a concern. Craig shares practical solutions from his experience in New Jersey, including using larger diameter pipes for exterior drainage and creating air gaps to prevent complete freezing. They address the ongoing debate about whether to combine AC condensate lines with furnace condensate lines, noting that while it's technically possible, there are potential risks and code considerations to keep in mind.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on code compliance and best practices for condensate disposal. The International Mechanical Code (IMC) provides several acceptable options for drainage, including floor drains, utility sinks, and standpipes. However, as Craig points out, local interpretations and requirements can vary significantly, making it crucial for contractors to maintain good relationships with their local inspectors and understand their specific jurisdiction's requirements.

Key Topics Covered:

How 90% efficient furnaces produce condensate through their dual heat exchanger system
The acidic nature of furnace condensate and its corrosion potential
Solutions for preventing condensate line freezing in cold climates
Pros and cons of combining AC and furnace condensate lines
Code-compliant drainage options (IMC 307.2)
Use of condensate pumps as a solution for difficult drainage situations
Importance of proper trapping and venting in condensate systems
Requirements for auxiliary drain pans under furnaces
Role of condensate switches and safety controls
Challenges with different installation locations (crawl spaces, basements, etc.)
Considerations for neutralizer usage when draining into septic systems

Should I Fog or "Sanitize" My Ducts? - Short #220

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 • Duration 09:16

In this short podcast episode, Zach joins Bryan to answer a common duct maintenance question: Should I fog or sanitize my ducts?

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) outlines the uses of chemical products. Adding chemicals is usually a last resort in flex or sheet metal (externally wrapped) duct systems; they should NOT be used on ducts with internal liners or are made of duct board or any other material with porous surfaces.

Fog is typically applied while a vacuum is running at the opposite end of the duct. It liquefies on surfaces, and a lot of contractors don't go in and dry off the duct surfaces. It's difficult to coat the entire interior of a duct system with the chemical to make it as effective as possible, and the residue creates a moist, sticky film that actually encourages microbial growth in the ductwork. On top of that, some people may be sensitive to the chemicals.

In many cases, replacing ductwork that has been confirmed to have microbial growth is more reliable. Chemical duct sanitation often has more of a perceived benefit than long-term results. The use of chemical cleaners in ductwork is similar to that of using some line set flushes without forcing a solid pig through the line set to pick up the residue afterward. Ultimately, the customer has to make an informed decision based on the problem and knowledge of the benefits and drawbacks of chemical solutions.

NADCA's white papers, including "Chemical Product Applications in HVAC Systems," are available at https://nadca.com/industry-professionals/nadca-white-papers.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium.

Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or . Subscribe to our channel. for and .

Can Ducts Be Cleaned Ethically?

Thursday, December 5, 2024 • Duration 41:32

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, Bryan interviews Zachary Ortwine, a duct cleaning professional who provides insights into ethical duct cleaning practices. The conversation delves deep into the complexities of cleaning different types of ductwork, the importance of proper assessment, and the potential challenges in maintaining indoor air quality.

Zach emphasizes the critical role of thorough inspection and honest communication with clients. He explains that not all duct systems are equally cleanable, and professionals must carefully assess factors like duct material, contaminant type, and cleaning feasibility. Metal ducts can be cleaned more aggressively, while fiberglass ducts require a more delicate approach. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the underlying issues that contribute to indoor air quality problems, such as system design, maintenance, and home living conditions.

The podcast explores the evolution of duct cleaning technologies and safety considerations. Zach shares insights into modern fiberglass materials, which have improved safety compared to older versions, and discusses the importance of proper cleaning and coating techniques. The conversation also touches on broader indoor air quality challenges, including the impact of tighter building envelopes, ventilation issues, and the potential health risks of prolonged exposure to indoor contaminants.

Key Topics Covered:

Ethical considerations in duct cleaning
Assessment techniques for determining cleanability
Different duct materials (metal, flex, fiberglass) and cleaning approaches
Indoor air quality challenges in modern homes
NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) standards
Importance of technician certification and experience
Ventilation and its impact on indoor air quality
Proper testing and verification of cleaning results
Coating techniques for fiberglass ducts
Misconceptions about antimicrobial treatments

Learn more about NADCA and certified professionals at https://nadca.com/.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at .

Q&A - Evap Placement - Short #221

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 • Duration 07:15

In this short podcast, Bryan talks about evaporator coil placement based on a question submitted by a listener, John. Evap coil placement differs in furnace applications versus air handlers.

When we use air conditioners with furnaces, we usually put evaporator coils on the positive side to protect the heat exchanger from rusting out during the summer (due to condensation and the chemical reactions that can occur with the metal heat exchanger). However, when it comes to air handlers, they're usually on the negative side. The coil is usually on the negative side of a fan coil or air handler because it keeps the blower motor cooler (though that doesn't make a huge difference in terms of performance).

The HVAC system will lose fewer BTUs to leakage when the coil is on the negative side, which is better for energy efficiency; those BTUs can reach the conditioned space rather than the closet, garage, or wherever it is stored. Pulling air over the evaporator coil on the negative side, however, could potentially lead to greater turbulence.

We run into challenges with evap coil placement on gas furnaces when we have dual fuel systems (a heat pump and furnace working together). You can't run gas heat over a heat pump coil due to the high head pressure, so a parallel setup would avoid the risks of high head pressure (downstream) or rusted-out heat exchangers (upstream).

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

Choosing HVAC Cleaners w/ Becca from Viper

Thursday, December 12, 2024 • Duration 40:43

The podcast delves into the world of HVAC chemical solutions through an in-depth conversation with Becca Stamey, the marketing director at Refrigeration Technologies. The discussion provides insights into the company's unique approach to developing cleaning products, rooted in a commitment to safety, effectiveness, and customer feedback. Founded by John Pastorello, a chemist turned HVAC technician, the company has always prioritized creating products that are non-toxic, non-corrosive, and environmentally friendly.

Becca highlights the range of Viper products, from condenser and evaporator cleaners to pan and drain sprays and all-purpose cleaners. Each product is carefully formulated with specific purposes in mind, such as the enzyme-based evaporator cleaner designed to address odor issues and break down biofilm. The conversation emphasizes the company's innovative packaging, particularly the Venom Packs, which offer concentrated, durable, and space-efficient solutions for technicians. The podcast also underscores the company's commitment to quality control, with U.S. manufacturing and personal oversight from the leadership team.

The episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at Refrigeration Technologies' growth and dedication to the HVAC community. The company has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of top-growing companies for three consecutive years and is expanding its manufacturing capabilities. Becca discusses the company's social media presence and community engagement, including their "Tech of the Month" program, which highlights and celebrates HVAC technicians who embody the company's values.

Key Topics Covered:

Viper's chemical product line and unique formulations
Condenser and evaporator cleaning solutions
Innovative Venom Pack packaging
Importance of non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products
Company's manufacturing process and quality control
Social media engagement and community recognition
Recent company growth and expansion
Upcoming appearances at industry events like AHR Expo

Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies at https://www.refrigtech.com/. You can also follow Refrigeration Technologies on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok (ViperHVAC).

HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs – Details, episodes & analysis

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HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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Other99+

Apple Podcast2

Youtube45

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other99+

Apple Podcast2

Youtube45

Apple Podcasts

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