Hvac Know It All Podcast

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie wraps up his chat with Tyler Nelson from Sauermann Group. In Part 02 of their discussion on refrigerant leaks, sealants, and best practices in HVAC diagnostics. Diving deeper into controversial yet evolving topics, Gary and Tyler examine both the theory and field-tested realities of leak detection and system maintenance, shedding light on how technicians can balance practicality, ethics, and innovation in their everyday work. Tyler and Gary talk about how leak sealants in HVAC systems are seen differently now, with some techs testing them and finding they work well in certain cases. They explain how formicary corrosion causes small leaks that are hard to fix fast, and why sealants can be a good short-term option. They also cover how to properly check for leaks using tools, bubbles, and even just your hands. Tyler shares details about a new leak detector from Sauermann that works on modern refrigerants and is easy for techs to use and afford.

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tyler Nelson from Sauermann Group about the importance of early maintenance for heating systems. Tyler explains how doing checks before the cold weather hits can help prevent issues like cracked heat exchangers, saving time and stress later. They discuss how tackling maintenance during the shoulder season lets you handle repairs in better conditions, avoiding rushed work in the winter. Tyler also emphasizes the need for combustion analysis and safety checks to protect both technicians and customers from carbon monoxide risks. Tyler talks about the benefits of doing heating system maintenance early, before the cold hits. He explains how checking systems in mild weather helps avoid problems like cracked heat exchangers and long wait times for parts. Tyler shares tips on getting maintenance done early, using combustion analyzers for safety, and checking for carbon monoxide risks. He emphasizes how using the right tools and timing can

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Jim Bergmann, President of measureQuick and Director of New Product Development at Redfish Instruments Inc. In Part 2, they discuss topics like the evolution of vacuuming techniques, moving away from triple evacuation, and why modern two-stage pumps are more efficient. Jim explains how to detect leaks using the decay vacuum method, the importance of nitrogen purging, and how refrigerant and oil behavior affects evacuation times. They also discuss the role of Measure Quick in helping technicians diagnose system issues and communicate better with customers, offering a more accurate approach to repairs and replacements. This conversation is full of tips for improving HVAC service and troubleshooting. Jim talks about how evacuation techniques have changed over time, moving away from triple evacuation to a single, deeper pull with modern pumps. He explains how refrigerant and oil mix, causing slow evacuat

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Jim Bergmann, President of measureQuick and Director of New Product Development at Redfish Instruments Inc. They talk about the science behind evacuation, the impact of hose size on evacuation speed, and the common misconceptions around pulling a vacuum. Jim explains how using larger hoses and understanding conductant speed can improve evacuation time and performance. They also discuss the effects of temperature on evacuation, particularly in cold climates, and how to prevent moisture buildup in systems. This conversation provides clear insights for HVAC professionals to optimize their evacuation process and avoid common pitfalls. Jim talks about the science of pulling a vacuum and why the size of hoses matters for faster evacuation. He explains how using larger hoses and understanding conductant speed can reduce evacuation time. Jim also clears up myths about ice forming during evacuation and the impact of cold weather. He stresses

In this solo episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie, Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc, shares real-world lessons from the field, focusing on pulling vacuums and handling customer repairs. He explains why larger hoses improve vacuum speed, clears up common HVAC myths, and stresses the value of testing and thinking critically. Gary also talks about fixing equipment with limited budgets, using a coil-combing tool, and keeping customers running while maintaining safety and trust. It's a helpful, honest episode full of tips for techs working in real-world conditions. Gary shares real-world HVAC stories that show why using bigger hoses speeds up vacuums and how heat helps in cold-weather jobs. He explains how simple tricks, like straightening coil fins, can improve system performance and save customers money. Gary also talks about working with limited budgets and why buil

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with John Zimmerman, Founder & CEO of Harvest Integrated, about HVAC solutions for the cannabis industry. John explains how his company approaches retrofit applications by offering full solutions, including ductwork, electrical services, and equipment installation. He emphasizes the importance of designing scalable, efficient systems without burdening growers with unnecessary upfront costs, providing them with long-term solutions for their HVAC needs. The discussion also focuses on the best types of equipment for grow operations. John shares why packaged DX units with variable speed compressors are the ideal choice, offering flexibility as plants grow and the environment changes. He also discusses how 24/7 monitoring and service calls are handled, and how they’re leveraging technology to streamline maintenance. The conversation wraps up by exploring the growing trend of “HVAC as a service” and its impact on bus

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with John Zimmerman, Founder & CEO of Harvest Integrated, to kick off a two-part conversation about the unique challenges of HVAC systems in the cannabis industry. John, who has a strong background in data center cooling, brings valuable expertise to the table, now applied to creating optimal environments for indoor grow operations. At Harvest Integrated, John and his team provide “climate as a service,” helping cannabis growers with reliable and efficient HVAC systems, tailored to their specific needs. The discussion in part one focuses on the complexities of maintaining the perfect environment for plant growth. John explains how HVAC requirements for grow rooms are similar to those in data centers but with added challenges, like the high humidity produced by the plants. He walks Gary through the different stages of plant growth, including vegetative, flowering, and drying, and how each requires specific adjustments to temperature

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie, Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club, and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc, switches roles again to be interviewed by Scott Pierson, Vice President of HVAC & Market Strategy at Encompass Supply Chain Solutions. They talk about how much today’s customers really know about HVAC, why correct load calculations matter, and the risks of oversizing or undersizing systems. Gary shares tips for new business owners on choosing the right CRM tools, and they discuss helpful tech like remote support apps for younger technicians. The conversation also looks at how private equity ownership can push sales over service quality, and why doing the job right builds both trust and comfort for customers. Gary McCreadie joins Scott Pierson to talk about how customer knowledge, technology, and business practices are shaping the HVAC industry today. Gary explains why pr

In this special episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, the usual host, Gary McCreadie, Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club, and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc. takes the guest seat as he’s interviewed by Scott Pierson, Vice President of HVAC & Market Strategy at Encompass Supply Chain Solutions, to discuss the current state of the HVAC industry. They discuss the industry's shifts, like the push for heat pumps, and the importance of balancing technical skills with sales training. Gary talks about the generational gap in the trade and the need for a cultural change to better support new technicians. They also explore how digital tools and online resources are transforming how HVAC professionals work and learn. It’s a part of a candid conversation about adapting to new challenges in the industry. Gary McCreadie joins Scott Pierson to talk about the current challenges in the HVAC industry. Gary shares his journey with HVAC

In Part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Benjamin Dryer, a Culture Consultant, Culture Pyramid Implementation, Public Speaker at Align & Elevate Consulting. Benjamin shares how real conversations and better training can reduce stress and boost team performance. He introduces a pyramid model for honest communication, direction, fulfillment, and accountability. Benjamin also explains how small changes in workplace culture can lead to big improvements in mental health and job satisfaction for workers. His tips help create safer, more supportive, and efficient work environments. Benjamin Dryer talks about how better communication and training help reduce stress in the trades. He shares a simple pyramid method that starts with honest talk and builds up to accountability. He and Gary explain how solving real problems like understaffing or unclear priorities can improve both mental health and business results. Benjamin says that workers often feel unheard, which

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie speaks with Benjamin Dryer, a Culture Consultant, Culture Pyramid Implementation, Public Speaker at Align & Elevate Consulting, about the emotional toll of working in the trades. Benjamin shares his personal story, including the loss of his father to suicide, and how it led him to focus on mental health in the industry. They discuss the “tough guy” culture, how poor communication and stress affect workers, and why learning to talk openly can make a big difference. It’s a powerful and honest talk that shows why change is needed on job sites. Benjamin Dryer joins Gary to talk about mental health in the HVAC trade. Benjamin shares his journey, including the loss of his father, and how it led him to help others in the industry. They discuss the tough culture many techs face, where showing emotion is seen as weak. He explains how poor communication and pressure from work can build stress. They talk about why it’s important to speak up, suppor

In Part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Jamie Kitchen, an HVAC expert, Training and Account Manager at Danfoss. They discuss the world of TT valves for heat pumps, particularly the Danfoss TR6. Jamie explains how balance port valves work, the importance of proper leak detection, and why correct charging practices are crucial for efficiency. He also talks about the challenges with condensing pressures and why new technology is improving system reliability. Jamie’s insights help technicians avoid common mistakes and enhance system performance. Jamie Kitchen talks about how balanced port valves help HVAC systems maintain steady pressure, especially during temperature changes. He explains why proper leak detection and charging techniques are key to avoiding equipment damage. Gary and Jamie discuss the importance of keeping condensing pressures stable to ensure the system runs efficiently. Jamie also shares how modern technology, like a variable-speed fan, helps

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Jamie Kitchen, an HVAC expert, Training and Account Manager at Danfoss, to talk all about TX valves for heat pumps. Jamie breaks down how these valves work in both heating and cooling modes and why they need to handle refrigerant flow in two directions. They discuss the parts of a TX valve, how pressure and temperature control the flow, and why Danfoss uses stainless steel in their design. Jamie also explains how proper installation helps prevent common issues and why external equalizers are important in many setups. It’s a must-listen for anyone working with heat pumps. Jamie Kitchen from Danfoss joins Gary to talk about TX valves used in heat pumps. Jamie explains how these valves control refrigerant flow when switching between heating and cooling. He breaks down how the valve parts work together, using pressure and temperature to open and close. They also talk about why heat pumps need special valves, and how check valves hel

In this solo episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie, Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc, shares a real-world story about residential HVAC service and why changing capacitors and contactors on a schedule can help avoid system breakdowns. He explains how a small overlooked issue led to a callback and how techs can prevent this by replacing aging parts before they fail. Gary talks about the impact of weather, usage, and location on these components and offers honest advice based on his own experience. It’s a clear, simple guide for techs looking to avoid headaches and keep customers happy. Gary shares a real-world HVAC story that shows why replacing old capacitors and contactors can stop bigger problems later. He explains how a small part failure caused a callback and how that could’ve been avoided with a simple replacement. He talks about how heat, moisture, and age can

In Part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Nick F. (Nick Fergis), co-founder and CEO of Property.com, a site that connects homeowners with top-rated contractors. They go over the free and paid membership tiers for contractors, tools like Max Closer and Max Qualifier, and how Property.com helps build trust and drive quality leads. Nick shares why he started the platform, how it supports real estate agents too, and why only the best contractors are allowed in, no room for poor service or shady lead generation. Nick Fergis talks about why Property.com only lists top-rated, vetted contractors to help homeowners avoid poor service. He explains their free and paid plans, where tools like Max Closer and Max Qualifier help contractors get leads and show their work. Nick also shares how real estate agents will soon use the platform to share trusted pros with new homeowners. Gary talks about how many lead services today feel random and low-quality. They agree that trust, c

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with Nick F.(Nick Fergis), Co-Founder and CEO of Property.com, about how HVAC contractors can grow their business online. They talk about how Property.com connects homeowners with top-rated contractors and how HVAC pros can get free microsites to boost their visibility. Nick explains features like seeing permit history, using smart tools to qualify leads, and even rating customers. They also cover the importance of ethical sales, staying away from bad clients, and how Property.com supports pros across the U.S. with tools to get noticed and win more jobs. Nick Fergis shares how Property.com helps HVAC pros get more leads by showing their work to local homeowners online. He explains that only top-rated contractors are listed, and they get free microsites to boost their business. Nick talks about tools that show past permits, home info, and which jobs are worth the time. He also explains how pros can rate customers to avoid bad ones. Gary

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats again with Drew Tozer,  author of Feel Good Homes and Partner at Foundry Heat Pumps, and Expert Advisor at Building Decarbonization Alliance and Jouleia. They talk about why right-sizing HVAC systems is so important and how old rules of thumb often lead to discomfort. Drew explains how load calculations, better filters, and smart installs can improve comfort, air quality, and energy use. They also touch on heat pump myths, hybrid systems, and why teaching both homeowners and techs can lead to better results and fewer system issues. Drew Tozer talks about why many homes feel uncomfortable, drafty rooms, poor airflow, and wrong system sizes. He explains that heat pumps, when chosen and installed right, fix these issues and help save energy. Drew also highlights how indoor air quality is often ignored and why better filters should be standard, not upgrades. Gary shares stories of past installs that prove doing the math and using load calc

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Drew Tozer, an energy advisor and Partner at Foundry Heat Pumps, and Expert Advisor at Building Decarbonization Alliance and Jouleia, about heat pump systems and how to make homes more comfortable. They discuss common problems like hot and cold rooms, the myths around heat pumps, and why right-sizing equipment matters. Drew explains how heat pumps have improved and how to pick the best one based on home size, ductwork, and local climate. They also cover hybrid setups, electric backups, and simple tips to avoid overworking systems and keep indoor air comfy and efficient. Drew Tozer explains how many homes have rooms that are too hot or too cold because of wrong HVAC sizing. He shares why heat pumps are a smart fix when sized right and how older myths make people avoid them. Drew says most homes don’t need gas backup and that hybrid systems help when ductwork or power panels are limited. Gary shares job stories showing how right siz

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his chat with Matthew Cowley, a North America Sales Manager: Spectroline Leak Detection (Industrial & HVAC/R) at Spectronics Corporation. They discuss the leak sealants, their proper use, and common misconceptions. Matthew explains how Spectronics' oil-based, solvent-free sealant is safe and effective for tiny evaporator leaks. Gary shares tips from his article on diagnosing and fixing leaks, stressing that sealants should only be used when repairs aren't possible. They also talk about the EZ-Ject injection method, which makes applying sealant clean and simple. The episode ends with a push for better research and open-mindedness in the HVAC trade. Matthew Cowley explains how Spectronics Corporation's sealants work to fix very small refrigerant leaks, especially in hard-to-reach places like evaporator coils. He talks about the importance of finding and confirming a leak before using a sealant. Matthew also shares how their dye a

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with Matthew Cowley, a North America Sales Manager: Spectroline Leak Detection (Industrial & HVAC/R) at Spectronics Corporation, about the truth behind internal sealants used in HVAC systems. They explain how older polymer-based sealants caused problems due to chemical reactions, while new oil-based ones work safely with mechanical action. Matthew and Gary talk about how oil-based sealants coat leak areas from the inside without clogging or damaging parts. They also share stories from real HVAC jobs, testing tips, and why more people are starting to trust this modern sealant method. Matthew Cowley explains how modern oil-based sealants are safer for HVAC systems than old polymer ones. He shares how these sealants coat tiny leaks from inside without hardening or clogging parts. Matthew talks about how they need pressure, heat, and small leak spots to work well. He also explains why these sealants don’t hide damage but help prevent b