Building HVAC Science

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.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Grant Gunnison from Zero Homes. The discussion kicks off with Grant mentioning upcoming conferences in Denver related to home electrification and heat pumps, which he, Eric, and Bill plan to attend. Grant shares insights on the complexities homeowners face when installing electrification technologies, emphasizing the time-consuming nature of getting familiar with new technologies and the challenge of finding reliable contractors.

Grant elaborates on the cumbersome customer journey in home electrification, from initial research to contractor consultations. He highlights how Zero Homes aims to streamline this process by simplifying access to information and reducing the need for multiple contractor visits through digital tools and comprehensive online assessments. The conversation touches on the significant growth in heat pump installations in Massachusetts as a positive market signal, yet acknowledges the broader challenges and long road ahead to achieve more ambitious installation targets.

The podcast concludes with a discussion about Zero Homes' business model and partnerships with contractors to facilitate efficient, cost-effective home upgrades. Grant shares the story behind the company's name and its focus on creating a zero-emission retrofit optimization process. The episode underscores the potential of technology and innovative business strategies to significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of home electrification efforts, reducing both homeowner costs and environmental impact.

Grant’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantgunnison/

His business website: https://www.zerohomes.io/

The conference we mention: www.HeatPumpSummit.org

This episode was recorded in May 2024.

In the latest episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and co-host Bill Spohn welcomed guest Enrico Bonilauri, an architect originally from Italy now based in the U.S. Enrico shared insights from a comprehensive study comparing various building standards across 50 projects to evaluate energy efficiency and performance. He discussed the differences between international and American passive standards and the standard American building code, emphasizing the need for builders to adopt high-performance building techniques.

Throughout the discussion, Enrico highlighted the challenges of aligning different building standards and introduced a scoring system he developed to assess various metrics like energy performance, air quality, and durability. He explained that the study took two and a half years to complete, involving detailed energy modeling to meet different standards. This extensive research aimed to demonstrate how passive building standards compare against others like Energy Star and the energy code, shedding light on the potential for energy savings and improved construction practices.

Towards the end of the episode, Enrico spoke about the practical applications of the study, including training and educating American builders on passive building techniques through his company, Emu. He emphasized the importance of hands-on training and creating a community among builders and designers to share knowledge and improve building practices universally. The episode concluded with discussions on upcoming training sessions and the availability of Emu's detailed study reports for public access, encouraging a broader engagement with sustainable building practices.

Enrico’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enricobonilauri/

His business website: https://emupassive.com/

Link to the study:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/9b6yzoqsppr2jafbaptmq/Emu-PH-Report.pdf

This episode was recorded in April 2024.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast recorded at the ACCA 2024 Conference in Orlando, Florida, Eric catches up with Ed Janowiak from ACCA.

Ed and Eric virtually navigate the listeners through the conference, noting the mix of technical and managerial attendees. Ed emphasizes the necessity of technical knowledge in HVAC, especially evident in a conference setting. Eric and Ed reminisce about their longstanding acquaintance, having met at a previous HVACR symposium.

In this casual yet insightful conversation, Eric and Ed offer glimpses into the dynamics of the ACCA conference, showcasing the blend of technical expertise and business acumen. They underscore the significance of technical tracks in such gatherings and reminisce about their longstanding professional relationship, demonstrating the enduring connections forged within the HVAC community over the years.

Ed’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-janowiak-9bb3b734/

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

This episode was recorded in March 2024.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jesse Smith, a carpenter turned HVAC enthusiast. Jesse, who has written an intriguing article titled "Lies, Damned Lies, and Manometer Readings" for Asterisk Magazine, shares his journey from carpentry to specializing in high-performance building and energy retrofits. His early exposure to energy efficiency through his father's work, combined with his professional evolution amidst the housing bubble, laid the foundation for his deep dive into HVAC systems and home performance standards.

Jesse discusses his experiences and challenges in HVAC, emphasizing the widespread lack of proper setup and calibration in the field, which he identifies as a significant issue affecting both indoor air quality and energy efficiency. His practical encounters, such as dealing with incorrect airflow measurements and learning about the critical settings of HVAC systems, underline his critique of what he sees as endemic incompetence within the industry. This incompetence, Jesse argues, poses severe risks not only to building efficiency but also to public health and environmental sustainability.

The podcast conversation also delves into Jesse's broader concerns about the construction and HVAC industries' stagnation in productivity and innovation since the 1970s. He calls for better education and accountability in the industry to overcome these challenges. Jesse's perspective is that of an insider calling for systemic change, advocating for the adoption of better practices and technologies to improve building performance and, ultimately, contribute positively to societal health and environmental goals.

Jesse’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-smith-59a54966/

The original article that drew our attention:

https://asteriskmag.com/issues/05/lies-damned-lies-and-manometer-readings

This episode was recorded in March 2024.

In this episode recorded at the ACCA 2024 conference in Orlando, Eric Kaiser interviews Wes Davis, the Director of Technical Services at ACCA. Wes shares his extensive experience at ACCA, noting his nearly two-decade tenure and involvement in significant initiatives like code hearings and contractor accreditation efforts. He humorously remarks on his career progression within ACCA, crediting his rise to the retirement of predecessors and finding joy in leading a talented team dedicated to advancing HVAC standards and education.

Wes details the core responsibilities and recent projects of his department, which include advocating for sensible codes, delivering educational programs, and promoting contractor accreditation. He emphasizes the importance of ACCA's role in developing and revising standards such as Manuals J, S, D, and T, which are critical for proper HVAC installation and maintenance. Wes also discusses ACCA's transition to offering standards online for free viewing, which is aimed at increasing accessibility and industry engagement.

The podcast touches on the dynamic nature of standard development, highlighting the open and inclusive process that ACCA strives for. Wes encourages industry professionals to participate and provide feedback on standards, stressing that contributions are vital for creating practical and effective industry guidelines. The episode concludes with Wes expressing appreciation for the opportunity to discuss these processes and encourage listener involvement in shaping the future of HVAC standards.

Wes’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesdavisacca/

ACCA website: www.ACCA.org

This episode was recorded in March 2024.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosted by Eric Kaiser, guests Josh Crawley and Casey Prater from TruTech Tools discuss their experiences at the HVAC Excellence National HVACR Education Conference held in March in Las Vegas, Nevada. They share insights on the conference's focus on education and technology advancements in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the passionate learning environment and the evolution of smart tools in HVAC practices.

Josh Crawley, the sales manager for TruTech Tools, recounts his journey with the company and how it has evolved to prioritize customer service and technological advancements in HVAC tools. He reflects on the conference's emphasis on the importance of connected tools and how the perception of such technologies has shifted positively over the years, highlighting the industry's commitment to quality work and efficient problem-solving through technology.

Casey Prater, a newer member of the TruTech team, shares his personal takeaway from the conference, focusing on the enthusiasm and passion within the HVAC community. He appreciates the informative sessions, especially those involving visual demonstrations, which provided deep insights into the industry's future directions, including the transition to A2L refrigerants. Casey's experience underscores the industry's continuous learning culture and the role of innovation in driving HVAC practices forward.

Overall, the episode paints a picture of an industry at the cusp of significant technological transformation, underscored by a collective commitment to education, quality, and innovation. The discussion not only highlights the specific advancements in HVAC tools and practices but also reflects on the broader implications for workforce development and the pursuit of excellence in the field.

Josh’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crawley-20b41550/

NHETC Conference:

2024 schedule: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/eventschedule.aspx

2025 teaser: https://www.escogroup.org/hvac/nhetc/default.aspx

This episode was recorded in April 2024.

In this engaging interview on the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed Jason Julian, owner of Julian Heating and Air in Arkansas, to discuss his remarkable journey and the evolution of his business. Julian's story is one of resilience and transformation, beginning with his entry into the HVAC industry as a recovering drug addict and felon in need of employment. His eagerness to learn and improve not only his skills but also the comfort and satisfaction of his customers propelled him from a temporary helper to a business owner dedicated to quality service and employee empowerment.

Jason Julian's company culture emphasizes continuous learning, quality workmanship, and a proactive approach to solving problems. He invests in high-quality tools and training for his team, aiming to be the supportive and encouraging boss he wished he had when he started. Julian's commitment to his employees and customers alike has fostered a positive, solution-oriented work environment where the focus is on delivering excellent customer service through skilled and knowledgeable HVAC solutions.

Despite the challenges of starting a business with limited resources and navigating financial obstacles, Julian has successfully grown his company by maintaining high standards for work and customer care. He attributes much of his success to the support and collaboration within his team, emphasizing the importance of seeing potential in people and empowering them to contribute to solutions. This collective effort and shared vision for excellence have allowed Julian Heating and Air to thrive, demonstrating the power of resilience, leadership, and a customer-first approach in the HVAC industry.

Jason’s Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-julian-03530b160/

Jason’s business: https://julianheatandair.com/contact-us/

This episode was recorded in February 2024.

In this podcast Bill and Eric interview their friend, Russ King, AKA Mr. Load Calcs from California. Russ has extensive background in HVAC, starting from his first job in 1988 doing load calculations and energy modeling for California's Title 24 energy code. He shares his journey from working with his mentor Marshall Hunt, through running a mechanical engineering department for a big energy consulting firm, to eventually starting a company with his son, Connor, and developing software: http://www.KwikModel.com in 2018. King emphasizes the importance of feedback from HERS raters and others on tested houses to improve design quality and advocates for contractors to be home performance contractors, focusing on both equipment capacity and house load.

Russ proceeds to introduce his new initiative, www.DIYLoadCalcs.com, aimed at empowering homeowners to be involved in the HVAC process by providing them with tools to understand and improve their home's energy efficiency as well as HVAC system performance by getting it designed correctly from the get go.. This service leverages modern technology to allow homeowners to scan their houses and submit information for load calculations to professionals trained in using KwikModel. The resultant load calc can be given to contractors along with a KwikModel file to refine the load calc. He highlights the importance of load calculations in identifying the correct size for HVAC equipment and improving home performance.

Throughout the discussion, King underscores the transformation in the HVAC industry brought about by technological advancements, making processes like load calculations more accessible and accurate. He expresses hope that initiatives like DIY Load Calcs will encourage more homeowners and contractors to embrace these tools, leading to better-informed decisions and improvements in home energy efficiency and HVAC system performance and occupant health and comfort.

Here is Russ’ blog: https://russellking.me/

Here are the posts he referred to in our conversation:
https://russellking.me/2014/01/02/how-a-house-is-like-a-tank-of-water/

https://russellking.me/2013/05/25/why-we-need-a-simpler-hvac-design-methodology/

His Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-king-m-e-70342913/

This episode was recorded in February 2024.

Eric and Bill welcome Victor Hyman to the podcast. Victor is the Executive Director of Climate Care Cooperative, an Ontario-based HVAC contractors' cooperative focused on residential services. Victor explains that Climate Care has been operational since 1992, and he has been its Executive Director for three and a half years. He highlights the unique nature of a contractors' cooperative, detailing how it allows companies to share best practices, training, and financial benefits, likening the structure to a franchise system democratically controlled by its members.

Victor discusses the role of Climate Care in Ontario's HVAC sector, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the Canadian federal government's push for decarbonization and the promotion of heat pump technology through financial incentives such as the Greener Homes Initiative. He explains the regional focus of the cooperative's members in Ontario, emphasizing the province's clean energy grid and the impact of climate policies on HVAC practices and the adoption of heat pumps over traditional air conditioners. Victor also sheds light on the practical challenges faced by HVAC contractors, such as educating homeowners about energy efficiency and navigating government rebate programs.

The conversation then shifts to the strategies employed by Climate Care to communicate with customers and train members in understanding and addressing homeowners' needs effectively. Victor emphasizes the importance of preparing homeowners for equipment upgrades and promoting maintenance plans to ensure efficient and timely HVAC solutions. He also touches on the significance of leveraging utility data for accurate heat load calculations and the benefits of third-party endorsements in encouraging homeowners to adopt greener technologies. The podcast concludes with Victor sharing insights on the importance of understanding customer motivations and focusing on delivering comfort and cost savings, reinforcing the role of HVAC contractors as trusted advisors in the transition towards more sustainable home heating solutions.

Victor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorhyman/

https://www.climatecare.com/

This episode was recorded in February 2024.