Hvac School - For Techs, By Techs

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan sits down with Phil, the executive electrical team leader at Kalos who has transitioned into the world of estimating. Phil shares his extensive background in electrical work dating back to 1994, from his high school electrical elective to running his own business for eight years before joining Kalos and eventually establishing their estimation department. The conversation delves deep into the fundamentals of estimating in the trades, contrasting traditional qualitative approaches with more rigorous quantitative methods. Phil emphasizes that good estimating is about "finding the truth" - understanding the actual costs of materials and labor for a project. They discuss how traditional estimating often relies on heuristics and past experiences with similar jobs, while more detailed estimating involves comprehensive takeoffs and assembly-based counting. The pair explores how estimation isn't just about producing a final number but should provide valuable info

In this short podcast, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question about Nylog, oil, and where you put them when you're making flares. Nylog is a thickened refrigerant oil (which is either POE for Nylog Blue or mineral oil for Nylog Red), and it's miscible with the refrigerant and moves with it through the circuit. You don't want to put excess Nylog on valves, but a small amount won't do harm. There are a lot of concerns about Nylog voiding the warranty, but it doesn't actually do that because it's nearly impossible to prove that Nylog caused the issue. Like oil, Nylog helps connections fit together (even threaded connections) and prevents galling. However, oil and Nylog also reduce friction, which will affect your torque specs when you use a torque wrench to tighten a connection. You don't need to tighten it as much, as you risk overtightening otherwise. When you apply Nylog, put a little bit on the front and back face of a flare (and the cone of the flaring block if you wish). You can put a small bead on th

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan and Jim discuss strategies for growing an HVAC business, focusing on the importance of maintenance contracts, consistent service, and effective branding. Drawing from Jim's 15 years of experience running a successful HVAC company in California, they explore how maintenance contracts not only provide consistent revenue but also create valuable training opportunities for technicians. The conversation emphasizes that maintenance contracts are fundamental to building company value. Jim shares that when he sold his business, the number of maintenance contracts was a key valuation metric. These contracts tie customers to your company, provide consistent work during shoulder seasons, and offer technicians crucial repetitive practice with equipment. Bryan adds that maintenance provides technicians with opportunities to observe normal equipment operation repeatedly, which builds troubleshooting skills through pattern recognition. Both hosts stress the importance of con

In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question about oversized evaporator coils, particularly when they're half a ton or a full ton larger than the condenser. The expanded performance data contains the information that'll tell you whether the coil is right for the system. However, when it comes to the specific issue of oversizing, there is a common misconception that coil size affects the saturated suction temperature. The truth is that they're not related; you could fully insulate different-sized coils and move the same amount of refrigerant, but they will behave similarly. The saturated suction temperature (suction pressure, evap temperature) is driven by the heat entering the system. Coils are designed to handle refrigerant flow rates and airflows, so having a lower airflow over a large coil allows for greater cooling due to the bigger surface area, lower bypass factor, and dwell time. When more heat enters the evaporator coil, the saturated suction temperature increases, but so

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, host Bryan sits down with building science expert Allison Bailes to dive deep into the world of Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs). The conversation explores the critical role of ventilation in modern homes, highlighting how ERVs have become an essential component of maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Bailes breaks down the technical nuances of ERVs, explaining how these systems not only bring fresh air into a home but do so while recovering both temperature and moisture energy. The discussion goes beyond simply explaining what an ERV is, delving into the practical considerations of ventilation strategies. Bailes shares personal experiences, including challenges he faced with over-ventilation in his own home, which led to extremely dry indoor conditions. The podcast explores the complex balance of bringing outdoor air inside while managing humidity, temperature, and air quality. Listeners gain insights into why simply bringing in outdoor air isn't

In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question asking whether you can use another surge protector at the disconnect panel with an ICM 493 already in place. Using multiple surge protectors in the configuration described does NOT count as daisy-chaining. Surge protectors with MOVs (metal oxide varistors) shunt current from high voltage to ground by reducing their resistance. MOVs are sacrificial, so they wear out over time. Surge protectors don't last forever, so installing multiple is a fine idea. You can have whole-home surge protection with additional surge protectors positioned at the appliances/electronics. While it can be done and doesn't hurt anything, it's not the most cost-effective solution.  When you install a surge protector, wire it in parallel with the circuit to ground. It should be wired properly with the shortest possible path to ground. In any case, many surge protectors won't hold up against direct lightning strikes, but they will protect the equipment from power s

In this podcast episode, HVAC professionals Chris Hughes and Adam Mufich discuss the intricate challenges technicians face when commissioning modern inverter-based heating and cooling systems. Unlike traditional single-stage or two-stage HVAC equipment, inverter systems introduce a new level of complexity that can leave even experienced technicians feeling uncertain about proper installation and startup procedures. The presentation highlights a fundamental shift in how HVAC systems operate, moving from straightforward single-stage systems to sophisticated inverter-based technologies that modulate compressor, fan, and refrigerant flow dynamically. This technological evolution creates significant challenges for technicians, who previously could rely on simple, consistent commissioning processes. The speakers emphasize that modern inverter systems require a much more nuanced approach, with specific temperature ranges, wait times, and verification methods that are not always clearly documented in manufacturer man

In this short podcast episode, Roman Baugh takes over the HVAC School podcast to answer a listener-submitted question about VRF (or VRV) system evacuation. Evacuation is a critical step of making repairs on VRF systems, which are very diverse and versatile but require a high level of understanding. VRF systems have multiple indoor units per outdoor unit, and they achieve that with the help of several components and accessories down the refrigerant line that can pose issues in evacuation and pressure testing. In heat recovery units, some manufacturers use solenoid valves (or even electronic expansion valves) in branch selector boxes or branch collector boxes. These valves act as little traffic guards, and the system needs to be put in its refrigerant recovery or vacuuming mode. If not, then you won't be able to evacuate all of the refrigerant and non-condensables from the system. Even if the system passes a decay test, contamination is a major concern when the system starts up and the valves open (due to nitro

This podcast episode is of Bryan's session from the HVAC School Symposium, "10 Things I've Learned in the Last 10 Years." Delivered as HVAC School approaches its 10-year milestone and Kalos hits 20 years, Bryan blends technical know-how with personal stories, revealing how his “expertise” is a product of constant learning—often from the very audience he’s addressing. Bryan’s presentation weaves together practical HVAC lessons and relatable anecdotes, offering a glimpse into his growth as a technician, educator, and leader. He tackles wire sizing versus breaker sizing, debunking outdated myths tied to the National Electrical Code and sharing tales of sparring with inspectors over code-compliant innovations. On vent sweating and duct leakage, he provides actionable fixes—like sealing boots and tackling attic moisture—while urging techs to look beyond bandaids. Bryan also dives into coil corrosion, distinguishing formicary from galvanic causes and advocating for field-driven research over manufacturer spin. His

In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question about using R-290 as a drop-in refrigerant for R-22 systems. It is NOT safe to use R-290 as a drop-in, but there are some similar properties between the two and some interesting thought experiments within this topic. R-290 is propane, a hydrocarbon that belongs to the family of natural refrigerants. R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant that has undergone a manufacturing/importation phaseout in the USA. They are both single-component refrigerants, not blends. Both of them have similar operating pressures and oil carry. However, the latent heat of vaporization of R-290 is almost double that of R-22, which makes it extremely effective as a refrigerant. The main issue with using R-290 is that it is highly flammable and explosive (A3), and it has very small charges (500 grams). Around 2010, some people started selling R-290 blends as drop-in alternatives for R-22. In theory, that combination would work very well, but it is not a safe or legal option

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan welcomes Jeff from Copeland to discuss the critical topic of flooding and slugging in compressors. Jeff, calling in from frigid Minnesota (at negative 19°F), explains the differences between these harmful conditions and how they can damage compressor systems. The conversation begins by differentiating between flood back and flooded starts. Flood back occurs during system operation when control of the evaporator is lost, often due to airflow issues. Flooded starts happen after the system has been off, when refrigerant migrates to the compressor oil. Both conditions can lead to slugging - when liquid refrigerant enters the compression chamber, causing immediate damage to valves and internal components. While flood back and flooded starts may cause gradual damage over time, slugging can break compressor components instantly. Jeff emphasizes that proper superheat levels are essential for compressor health, with most Copeland compressors requiring about 20 deg

In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question: what is the best brand of equipment for residential new construction? A lot of people have their own personal preferences when it comes to brands, whether that's with equipment, tools, or even cars. However, when it comes to HVAC equipment, there are a lot of factors that come into play, especially as far as local support is concerned. Are the distributors and territory managers accessible? Reliable? Bryan's personal preferences deal a lot with American (or at least North American) manufacturing and the strength of their local support in the Central Florida market. Some manufacturers have excellent base products but weak product lines, and others have weak base products but great specialized equipment. These judgments come from personal experience, and that's especially true of large manufacturers. Bryan recommends taking a measured, slow approach to products you deal with and then choosing the one that works best for your market and

Join Bryan Orr and Furman Haynes from WorkHero for a great discussion about how to keep HVAC local and help more small owners succeed. Live from AHR Expo 2025, we get to hear from one of the founders of an exciting new company that is offering expert office management that small HVAC business owners can afford. Bryan also talks with Furman about a survey that HVAC School and WorkHero recently conducted that received over 1,300 responses and yielded fascinating data about the day-to-day challenges of running HVAC businesses. Key topics covered: The challenges small HVAC business owners face with administrative work How the average small business owner spends 15.4 hours per week on non-revenue generating tasks The impact of private equity consolidation on local HVAC businesses How AI and human expertise can work together to support small contractors The importance of preserving craftsmanship and technical excellence in local HVAC businesses Ways to help small business owners focus on growth while reducing admi

In this livestream MeasureQuick Talks with Bert. This is an impromptu Talk with industry leaders, including Shelby Breger from Conduit and Joe Medosch from MeasureQuick, about how mobile technology is revolutionizing HVAC diagnostics and training. Featuring special guests discussing how modern tools like MeasureQuick and other diagnostic apps are making it easier for technicians of all experience levels to perform advanced diagnostics and build customer trust. Key Topics: How technicians can leverage mobile technology for better diagnostics Using tablets and phones for real-time HVAC measurements Making technical data accessible and meaningful for customers Bridging the gap between experienced techs and new talent The future of HVAC diagnostics and training How technology can help attract new talent to the trades Recorded live at AHR Expo 2025 with special guests from MeasureQuick and other industry leaders. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the trade, learn how modern diagnostic tools can help take y

Join us as we sit down with Nick from Inficon at AHR Expo 2025 to discuss the latest innovations in Leak Detection Tech. We explore the evolution from halide torches to modern infrared sensors, and get an exclusive look at their newest product - the D-TEK Pro. Key topics covered: The transition from heated diode to infrared sensor technology Deep dive into the Stratus leak detector's cloud hunting and pinpoint modes First look at the new D-TEK Pro with 10x airflow and enhanced sensitivity Discussion of forming gas applications in leak detection Tips for proper leak detector usage and maintenance New accessories for wind protection and insulation penetration Whether you're a seasoned tech or new to the trade, this conversation covers essential knowledge about modern leak detection tools and techniques. Learn how these advances are making leak detection more reliable and efficient for HVAC/R professionals.   Find out more at www.inficon.com.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit y

Join Bryan Orr as he goes Live from the AHR Expo 2025 at the Orange County Convention Center with Kalos Services team members Dre and Elliot! They share their first impressions of the massive HVAC industry expo, discuss interesting booth displays, and chat about the latest tools and technology they've spotted on the show floor. Get their perspective on what it's like to attend one of the largest HVAC/R trade shows in the world, featuring over 60,000 industry professionals from around the globe. The team discusses everything from impressive industrial equipment displays to innovative tools like Fieldpiece's new all-in-one leak detector. Special guest appearances and impromptu conversations with other industry professionals make this casual livestream a fun peek into the energy and excitement of AHR Expo 2025!   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 Symposiu

In this engaging episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan sits down with Jesse from NAVAC to dive deep into the evolving landscape of refrigeration technology, focusing primarily on the transition to A2L refrigerants. The conversation offers a refreshingly pragmatic approach to addressing industry concerns about these new, mildly flammable refrigerants, dispelling myths and providing practical insights for HVAC technicians. The discussion begins by addressing the most pressing question for many technicians: Do you need to buy all new tools to work with A2L refrigerants? Jesse from NAVAC provides a nuanced response, emphasizing that while there are currently no regulations mandating new equipment, the company has proactively developed tools that are safety-certified and compatible with the new refrigerant types. They explore the intricacies of safety certifications like UL and CSA, explaining the differences between UL Listed and UL Verified, and highlighting the importance of intrinsically safe equipmen

Roman Baugh and Donald Falese from VRF Tech Talk podcast takeover the HVAC School booth at AHR EXPO 2025. Join them as they talk about the new VRF products being unveiled, water cooled VRF up's and down's and why VRF is such a difficult trade work in. You will not want to miss this one! Highlights include: Daikin's innovative modular air handler for residential applications Hisense's groundbreaking single-phase VRF system with integrated hot water heating New NFC technology for easier system diagnostics and commissioning Updates on vapor injection technology and inverter developments The emergence of air source heat pump chillers Latest innovations from manufacturers like Gree, TCL, Cooper Hunter and more Whether you're a seasoned VRF technician or just getting started with inverter technology, this discussion covers everything from basic principles to cutting-edge developments in the industry. Roman and Donald break down complex technologies into understandable concepts while sharing their firsthand experi

Join us for a candid conversation with Bill Spohn from TruTech Tools at AHR Expo 2025! Bill shares exciting news about his planned retirement and transition plan for TruTech Tools, plus gives his insights on this year's 6th Annual HVAC/R Training Symposium where TruTech Tools was the title sponsor. We discuss the unique community atmosphere of both the Symposium and AHR Expo, exploring what makes these events special for the HVAC industry. In this livestream, we dive into: Bill's announcement about transitioning TruTech Tools leadership to his son over the next 3 years A detailed recap of HVAC School Symposium and what made it successful Thoughts on building authentic industry communities and fostering connections Leadership insights and maintaining vision while giving team members agency Perspectives on AHR Expo 2025 and why it matters for HVAC professionals    Don't forget to use offer code GETSCHOOLED for a great discount at trutechtools.com! Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Sub

In this informative podcast episode, Bryan from HVAC School is joined by Louise Keller, the National Training Manager for UEI Test Instruments, to discuss the critical importance of carbon monoxide safety and proper combustion analysis. The conversation begins with lighthearted banter about the previous night's Tactical Awards ceremony before diving into the serious topic of CO dangers and detection. Louise shares valuable insights about the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure, particularly at lower levels that might not trigger standard home CO alarms. She explains that CO poisoning can mimic many other conditions, including early-onset Alzheimer's, traumatic brain injury, and mobility issues. Bryan adds historical context by recounting how many Victorian-era "ghost stories" and fainting episodes coincided with the introduction of gas lighting in homes, suggesting these phenomena were likely CO poisoning symptoms. He also shares the little-known story of Walt Disney's parents, who tragically died from carbon