What HVAC Techs Must Know to Start the Business Right and Stay Legal with Robin and Ian

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Sal Randisi, Vice President of Business Development at Kano Labs - Makers of Kroil and Super Lube. Sal shares his expertise on lubrication, focusing on the importance of using the right grease for HVAC and industrial equipment. He explains how different greases work, the role of additives, and why over-greasing can cause failures. Sal also talks about best practices for maintaining bearings, including how to measure grease output and set proper schedules. The episode highlights how using the correct products and techniques can save time, prevent equipment wear, and improve overall maintenance. Sal Randisi, Vice President of Business Development at Kano Labs, joins Gary to talk about the science and best practices of lubrication. Sal explains what lubricants are, how they work, and why choosing the right one is key to keeping HVAC and industrial equipment running smoothly. He shares common mistakes like using the wrong grease or over-greasing bearings, which can lead to breakdowns. Sal also highlights how grease guns vary in output and why that matters for maintenance schedules. The conversation covers grease chemistry, color myths, and the benefits of using a multipurpose product like Super Lube to simplify work and extend equipment life.   Expect to Learn: What lubricants are and why the right one matters for HVAC and industrial use. How over-greasing or using the wrong grease can lead to equipment failure. Why do different grease guns deliver different amounts, and how to measure output correctly? How to set a proper maintenance schedule to save time and prevent breakdowns. Why the grease color does not equal performance, and how to choose the right product for the job. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Sal Randisi in Part 1 [02:28] - Lubrication Science & Purpose [04:33] - Case: UV Damage to Grease in Southern California [07:09] - Sealed vs. Greaseable Bearings [10:39] - Proper Greasing: Volume & Scheduling [15:16] - Grease Color Myths Debunked [20:08] - Multipurpose Grease Benefits   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Sal Randisi on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sal-randisi-10b58131/ Kano Labs - Makers of Kroil and Super Lube: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kano-laboratories/ Website: Kano Labs - Makers of Kroil and Super Lube: https://www.kroil.com/   Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

5 Tammi 22min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero discuss with guests Kimberly Sevilla, Founder of Shelter Air and Peter Troast, Founder & CEO of Energy Circle LLC, how to craft a compelling brand identity, build a high-impact website, and leverage AI for content creation. Whether you're launching a new HVAC business or revamping your marketing strategy, this episode provides critical insights on standing out in a saturated market. Kimberly shares her expertise in targeting the right customer through a tailored visual identity. Peter brings years of experience in website development, SEO, and digital branding strategies for service businesses.   Expect to Learn - How to create a strong visual identity that reflects your HVAC business values. - Tips on using AI and freelance platforms for affordable branding and logo creation. - Best practices for building a functional, story-driven HVAC website. - The value of storytelling and blogging for local SEO and customer engagement. - Balancing authenticity with automation in customer communication.   Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] – Introduction to the Episode [00:01:27] – Welcome to HVAC Know It All [00:01:52] – Visual Branding Fundamentals [00:04:23] – Standing Out in a Sea of Sameness [00:07:32] – DIY Branding Tools & Advice [00:10:29] – AI vs Human Touch in Branding [00:11:44] – Storytelling as a Marketing Tool [00:15:30] – Making Contact Easy for Emergencies   Follow Kimberly Sevilla on:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlysevilla Company's Website: https://shelter-air.com/ Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shelterair Company's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShelterAir/ Company's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelter.air/?hl=en   Follow Peter Troast on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petertroast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petertroast/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peter.troast/ Company's Website: https://www.energycircle.com/home-page Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/energy-circle-llc   Follow Furman Haynes on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/ WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/   Follow Gary McCreadie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

24 Joulu 202517min

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Jason Esteves, General Manager Americas at Seitron Americas Inc. They explore advanced concepts in combustion analysis, focusing on detecting cracked heat exchangers using oxygen changes and carbon monoxide levels. Jason explains why even a half percent shift in oxygen can signal serious issues and breaks down how combustion behaves in low-fire conditions. The discussion includes real-world examples, challenges with equipment startups, and tips for using analyzers like the NOVO. They also cover practical steps to update the analyzer's firmware for added features. Gary and Jason dive into the real process of spotting cracked heat exchangers using oxygen levels and CO readings. Jason explains how even a small shift in oxygen can mean a big issue and why looking at both O2 and CO is key. They talk through examples from real service calls and explain how low gas flow affects combustion readings. Jason shares why accurate data matters and how techs can avoid mistakes with proper analyzer checks. They end by showing how to update the NOVO tool so techs can use the newest test features in the field.   Expect to Learn: How to detect a cracked heat exchanger using small changes in oxygen levels. Why carbon monoxide readings alone are not enough to confirm a crack. What happens during low-fire conditions and how it affects combustion data. How to check your analyzer for leaks or setup issues before trusting the numbers. How to update the NOVO analyzer with new features right from your computer.   Episode Highlights:  [00:00] - Intro to Jason Esteves in Part 02 [02:25] - Finding & Testing Heat Exchanger Corrosion [04:34] - Oxygen Change: The Key Indicator of a Crack [07:12] - Story: Startup Issues with Makeup Air Units [09:30] - Combustion Analysis with Low Gas Input [11:25] - Importance of Proper Startup and Commissioning [15:47] - Update the NOVO Analyzer for Cracked Heat Exchanger Mode This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Jason Esteves on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-esteves-9690255/  Seitron Americas Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seitron-americas-inc/  Website: Seitron Americas Inc: http://www.seitronamericas.com/  Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

11 Joulu 202517min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes along with guests Robin Henry, Owner of Pinnacle Building Performance and Ian Schotanus, The HR Guy and Co-owner of The Big Picture Consulting, cover essential topics for those thinking of starting or growing their own HVAC business, including subcontracting vs. employees, payroll setup, hiring, marketing, and more. If you're a technician dreaming of business ownership, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the early stages of building your own HVAC business. Expect to Learn: The risks and considerations of subcontracting vs. hiring employees How to set up payroll, unemployment, and worker's comp The challenges and strategies in managing business growth How to handle administrative work and stay organized The importance of marketing and creative approaches to attracting customers Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction  [00:01:25] - Lawsuit Risk and Subcontracting [00:11:18] - Robin's Experience with Hiring [00:13:06] - Payroll, Unemployment, and Worker's Comp [00:15:36] - Advice for Aspiring Business Owners [00:17:24] - Mistakes Made by First-Time Business Owners [00:18:06] - The Wall of Hats [00:19:04] - Admin Work: The Hidden Burden of Business Ownership [00:21:20] - Administrative Inflation [00:22:01] - Closing Remarks Follow Guest Robin Henry on:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-henry-3a460482 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinnaclebuildingperformance/?hl=en Company's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinnaclebp Company's Website: https://www.pinnaclebuildingperformance.com/about-us/   Follow Guest Ian Schotanus on:  Company's LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-big-picture-consulting Company's Website: https://thebigpictureconsulting.com/about-us Company's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebigpictureconsulting/   Follow the Hosts: Follow Furman Haynes on:  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/WorkHero-61562122449748/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__    Follow Gary McCreadie on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

10 Joulu 202522min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie speaks with Jason Esteves, General Manager Americas at Seitron Americas Inc. Jason discusses the critical importance of personal carbon monoxide (CO) detection, sharing stories about real-world situations where CO monitors helped prevent dangerous exposures. He explains how personal CO detectors, designed to stay on continuously, provide safety in environments like boiler rooms, vehicles, and even hotels. The conversation also covers the health risks of long-term CO exposure and the significance of using proper monitoring equipment, especially in HVAC work, to ensure safety on the job. Jason shares insights on the features of CO monitors, including those in the Novo combustion analyzer, and how they help technicians detect problems like cracked heat exchangers. In this episode, Jason Esteves, General Manager Americas at Seitron Americas Inc., talks about the importance of personal carbon monoxide (CO) detection and why it's vital for safety. He explains to Gary how CO detectors can help prevent dangerous exposure in places like vehicles, hotels, and job sites. Jason shares why continuous monitoring is essential and how these devices can protect workers in high-risk environments. They also discuss the risks of long-term CO exposure, the role of combustion analyzers, and how tools like the Novo analyzer can help detect issues like cracked heat exchangers. Jason emphasizes how proper CO monitoring supports safer, healthier working conditions. Expect to Learn: Why personal carbon monoxide (CO) detection is critical for safety in HVAC work. How continuous CO monitoring can protect workers in high-risk environments like vehicles and boiler rooms. Why using the right CO detector is essential to avoid dangerous exposure. How tools like the Novo combustion analyzer help detect issues like cracked heat exchangers. The long-term health risks of CO exposure and why proper detection can prevent serious harm. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Jason Esteves in Part 1 [02:22] - Personal CO Detector Story [05:15] - Why Safety Monitors Stay On [08:41] - Real-Life CO Detection Stories [10:55] - CO in Warehouses & Health Risks [14:21] - Citron Detector Alarm Levels [15:35] - Intro to Cracked Heat Exchangers [19:57] - Using O2 to Detect Cracks [24:30] - Novo's Cracked Heat Exchanger Mode   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Jason Esteves on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-esteves-9690255/ Seitron Americas Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seitron-americas-inc/  Website: Seitron Americas Inc: http://www.seitronamericas.com/    Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

8 Joulu 202529min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Jeff Ponce, Senior Product Manager at RectorSeal, about Clear Drain PVC and the science behind better condensate management. Jeff explains how traditional PVC drain lines develop clogs caused by bacteria and biofilm buildup and how Clear Drain PVC solves this with a hydrophobic surface that prevents growth. They discuss why zinc is used in the product, how it creates a slippery surface instead of killing bacteria, and the research and development behind its creation. Jeff also shares how the product was first used in grocery store refrigeration systems in Europe and how it is now helping HVAC contractors prevent costly water damage and maintenance issues. This episode discusses the challenges HVAC technicians face with condensate drain management and how new technology can prevent common clogs. Jeff Ponce from RectorSeal explains how Clear Drain PVC was created to stop bacteria and slime from sticking inside pipes. He shares how the zinc mixed into the PVC fills tiny pores, creating a smooth, slippery surface that keeps drains clean. Jeff also talks about how the product was first used in grocery store refrigeration systems in Europe and later tested for HVAC use in the United States. His focus is on helping contractors reduce maintenance issues, prevent water damage, and keep systems running efficiently. Expect to Learn: How condensate drain problems start and why they cause major HVAC issues. Why do traditional PVC pipes allow bacteria and biofilm to grow inside? How Clear Drain PVC from RectorSeal prevents buildup with a smooth, hydrophobic surface. The role of zinc in creating a safer and more effective drain solution. How this technology was developed, tested, and proven in real-world HVAC and refrigeration systems. Episode Highlights:  [00:00] - Intro to Jeff Ponce [02:09] The problem with condensate drain lines [04:11] Why Perfect Systems Still Get Clogged [06:09] Copper vs. aluminum coils and drain pan solutions [10:06] Clear Drain PVC: The "Slip & Slide" Solution [13:04] The Science of Biofilm and How Clogs Form [18:36] The Grocery Store Origin Story [24:35] Water damage from clogged drains This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at SupplyHouse! Follow the Guest Jeff Ponce on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ponce-jeff-12109/ RectorSeal: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rectorseal/  Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

1 Joulu 202526min

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Richard Turner, owner of Modern PURAIR. They discuss the realities of duct cleaning in both residential and commercial spaces. Richard explains the challenges of cleaning systems after fires, poor construction practices, and general dust buildup over time. They discuss how better design and proper filtration could reduce the need for cleaning, but shortcuts in the building process keep the industry busy. The episode also touches on consumer awareness, filter options, and avoiding scams in the duct cleaning world. Gary and Richard talk about the real issues with dust in ductwork and why regular duct cleaning matters. Richard explains how systems fill with dust over time, especially when filters are poor or installations are rushed. They discuss the differences between residential and commercial jobs, and how cleaning methods change based on the setup. Richard also shares how poor construction and cheap choices by builders lead to long-term air quality problems. They wrap up by stressing the need for better education, cleaner installs, and offering homeowners real options to improve indoor air.   Expect to Learn: How dust builds up in duct systems and why regular cleaning is needed. Why new construction often leads to dirty ductwork before homeowners move in. How poor design and cheap filters reduce air quality and increase cleaning needs. Why do some builders skip cleaning and leave it up to the homeowner? How to spot scams in duct cleaning and choose a trusted company instead.   Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Richard Turner in Part 02 [01:40] - How Commercial Duct Cleaning Works [03:55] - Air Quality Data & Customer Concerns [06:45] - Why Ducts Get Dirty: Design & Filtration Issues [10:08] - The Importance of Cleaning After Construction [14:00] - Dealing with Duct Cleaning Scams This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Richard Turner on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-turner-4817b338/ Modern PURAIR: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-purair/    Website: Modern PURAIR: https://modernpurair.com/    Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

24 Marras 202516min