ERVs - What you need to know w/ Dr. Bailes
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
Release Date: 04/17/2025
Keys to VRF Maintenance w/ Roman
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan Orr sits down with Roman Baugh, a leading VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) specialist and co-host of the VRF Tech Talk podcast, for an in-depth exploration of VRF system maintenance. The conversation begins with some lighthearted back-and-forth before shifting to the technical realities of maintaining VRF equipment. Roman immediately addresses a common misconception: the idea that VRF systems are “maintenance free.” He explains that, contrary to some marketing claims, these systems require regular, specialized attention to ensure longevity...
info_outline
Maintenance Mindset - Short #249
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this short podcast episode, Bryan explores the maintenance mindset. Maintenance procedures require a different skill set from troubleshooting, especially the customer service mindset and dedication to execution. Good maintenance is important, and it may be "boring" to some techs, but it provides value and is worth doing well. Clients purchase maintenance plans for better reliability and efficiency. Several also enjoy the health benefits of cleaner HVAC systems. The key to maintenance is having a "do no harm" mindset and a commitment to delivering value. A sales-oriented mindset should take...
info_outline
IAQ, Ethical Selling & Building Better Techs w/ Brynn Cooksey
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan welcomes back Brynn Cooksey from Air Doctors and HVAC U to discuss critical topics facing the HVAC industry today. Brynn brings his unique perspective as both a successful contractor in southeast Michigan and an industry educator who has made the transition to focusing primarily on workforce development and training. The conversation begins with a deep dive into indoor air quality (IAQ), where Brynn challenges the common industry approach of throwing products at problems without proper testing. He emphasizes that effective IAQ solutions start...
info_outline
Crankcase Heaters - Short #248
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about crankcase heaters, including their different types, what they do, and when we need to use them. Crankcase heaters usually come in belly band varieties, but some can be inserted into the sump of the compressor. As their name suggests, crankcase heaters heat the crankcase when the compressor is off. They prevent flooded starts since the heat keeps refrigerant from condensing to a liquid in the compressor when the system isn't running. Long off times, long line sets, and cold temperatures all increase a system's risk of flooded starts. Hard shutoff...
info_outline
The Contactor Reimagined w/ Copeland
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan welcomes back Jim to discuss the groundbreaking SureSwitch contactor technology from Copeland. This isn't just another incremental improvement - it's a complete reimagining of how contactors should work in modern HVAC systems. Jim brings his expertise and even demonstrates the technology with a special cutaway camera setup, giving listeners and viewers an inside look at this innovative solution. The conversation begins with the evolution of contactors in the HVAC industry, explaining how manufacturers moved backward from heavy-duty two-pole...
info_outline
Capacitor Testing and Replacement - Short #247
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this short podcast episode, Bryan goes through the process of testing and replacing a run capacitor. Run capacitors provide continuous phase-shifted current to the start winding, allowing the motor to run in the right direction and with the appropriate amount of torque. These capacitors are needed in most of the single-phase PSC motors we work with. Run capacitors are in the circuit all the time and are connected in series with the start winding (compared to start capacitors, which need to be taken out of the circuit after startup). They don't actually "boost" voltage. The bigger...
info_outline
Cold Coil vs. Desiccant Dehumidification
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this comprehensive episode of the HVAC podcast, Bryan hosts an in-depth discussion about dehumidification technologies with two industry experts: David Schurk, National Sales Manager for Innovative Air Technologies, and Nikki Krueger from Santa Fe Products. The conversation explores the fundamental differences between compression refrigeration dehumidification and solid desiccant systems, providing valuable insights for HVAC professionals dealing with moisture control challenges. David Schurk brings 44 years of industry experience and serves as an ASHRAE Life Member and Distinguished...
info_outline
Learning Better - Short #246
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about learning styles and gives some tips for "learning better" and getting more out of continuing education opportunities. The first step to getting more out of educational opportunities is to know your learning style. There are three main styles: visual, kinesthetic (hands-on), and auditory. Most tradespeople will probably fall into the kinesthetic category, but not everybody is; you need to figure out if you're most comfortable working with your hands, listening to podcasts, watching videos, or reading. It's also a good idea to try the practical...
info_outline
Intro to The Sigma Capacitor
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
Sharon Goepferich from Cool Air Products joins the podcast to discuss cutting-edge capacitor technology and innovative HVAC solutions in an introduction to the Sigma capacitor. Sharon brings a decade of industry experience, having worked extensively with capacitors and HVAC components while traveling across the country to educate technicians and contractors. The conversation begins with a comprehensive breakdown of capacitor failures, addressing common misconceptions in the field. While manufacturing quality certainly plays a role in capacitor longevity, environmental factors like high...
info_outline
What's up with Refrigerant & System Regulations w/ Copeland
HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs
In this insightful episode of the HVAC School podcast, host Bryan sits down with Jennifer Butsch, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Copeland, to discuss the rapidly evolving regulatory environment affecting the HVAC industry. With eight years of experience at Copeland and a background spanning codes, standards, and regulatory affairs, Jennifer provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing contractors, technicians, and manufacturers in today's market. The conversation begins with an in-depth look at the EPA's Technology Transition Rule and the recent shift from...
info_outlineIn 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 always the best solution, especially in climates with extreme humidity or air quality challenges.
Throughout the episode, Bailes and Bryan emphasize the importance of thoughtful ventilation design. They discuss the evolution of home construction, noting how increasingly airtight buildings have made proper ventilation more crucial than ever. The conversation touches on key considerations for selecting and implementing ERVs, including motor efficiency, boost capabilities, filtration, and the impact of outdoor air conditions. The experts provide practical advice for contractors, technicians, and homeowners looking to improve their understanding of indoor air management.
Key Topics Covered:
- The difference between Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)
- Moisture transfer and vapor permeability in ventilation systems
- Balanced ventilation strategies and their importance
- Challenges of over-ventilation and indoor air quality
- Filtration considerations for ERV systems
- Impacts of outdoor air quality on home ventilation
- Strategies for different climate zones
- The role of ERVs in managing indoor humidity and temperature
Resources Mentioned:
- Allison Bailes' book: "A House Needs to Breathe... Or Does It?"
- Upcoming online ventilation course from Energy Vanguard (expected May 2025)
- Energy Vanguard website: energyvanguard.com
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