The HydroCore Humidifiers for HVAC Contractors to Reduce Water Waste with Chris Howells Part 1

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 businesses, especially those in the cannabis industry that may not have the capital for large upfront investments. John also touches on the future of HVAC service models, comparing them to data centers and explaining how the shift from large capital expenditures to manageable monthly expenses can help businesses grow more efficiently. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone in the HVAC field, particularly those working with or interested in the cannabis industry. Expect to Learn: How Harvest Integrated handles retrofit applications and provides full HVAC solutions. Why packaged DX units with variable speed compressors are best for grow operations. How 24/7 monitoring and streamlined service improve system reliability. The advantages of "HVAC as a service" for growers and businesses. Why shifting from capital expenses to operating expenses can help businesses scale effectively. Episode Highlights: [00:33] - Introduction Part 2 with John Zimmerman [02:48] - Full HVAC Solutions: Design, Ductwork, and Electrical Services [04:12] - Subcontracting Work vs. In-House Installers and Service [05:48] - Best HVAC Equipment for Grow Rooms: Packaged DX Units vs. Four-Pipe Systems [08:50] - Variable Speed Compressors and Scalability for Grow Operations [10:33] - Managing Evaporator Coils and Filters in Humid Environments [13:08] - Pricing and Business Model: HVAC as a Service for Growers [16:05] - Expanding HVAC as a Service Beyond the Cannabis Industry [20:18] - The Future of HVAC Service Models 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 John Zimmerman on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/ Harvest Integrated: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/ 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/

18 Elo 202521min

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 and humidity control. He also highlights the importance of redundancy in these systems to prevent costly downtime and potential crop loss. John shares how Harvest Integrated's business model offers a comprehensive service to growers, from designing and installing systems to maintaining and repairing them over time. The company's unique approach ensures that growers have the support they need without the typical issues of system failures and lack of proper service. Tune in for part one of this insightful conversation, and stay tuned for the second part where John talks about the real-world applications and challenges in the cannabis HVAC space. Expect to Learn: The unique HVAC challenges of cannabis grow rooms and how they differ from other industries. Why humidity control is key in maintaining a healthy environment for plants. How each stage of plant growth requires specific temperature and humidity adjustments. Why redundancy in HVAC systems is critical to prevent costly downtime. How Harvest Integrated's "climate as a service" model supports growers with ongoing system management. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to John Zimmerman and Harvest Integrated [03:35] - HVAC Challenges in Cannabis Grow Rooms [04:09] - Comparing Grow Room HVAC to Data Centers [05:32] - The Importance of Humidity Control in Growing Plants [08:33] - The Role of Redundancy in HVAC Systems [11:37] - Different Stages of Plant Growth and HVAC Needs [16:57] - How Harvest Integrated's "Climate as a Service" Model Works [19:17] - The Process of Designing and Maintaining Grow Room HVAC Systems This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow the Guest John Zimmerman on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-zimmerman-p-e-3161216/ Harvest Integrated: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvestintegrated/ 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/

14 Elo 202520min

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 proper load calculations are key to avoiding problems from oversized or undersized systems. They discuss tools like CRM software and remote support apps that help small businesses and newer techs work smarter. Gary also shares concerns about private equity companies focusing more on sales than service quality. It's a real conversation on doing quality work, using the right tools, and keeping customers comfortable. Gary talks about how some customers know more about HVAC than before, but many still misunderstand system needs. He explains why proper sizing through load calculations is so important to avoid comfort and equipment issues. Gary and Scott discuss useful tools like CRM software and remote support apps that help small companies and younger techs work better. They also look at how private equity ownership can push sales over quality service, and why doing the job right matters. It's a clear, practical talk on using the right tools, making smart choices, and keeping customers happy. Expect to Learn: Why proper load calculations are key to avoiding comfort and equipment problems. How CRM software and remote support apps help small businesses and new techs work smarter. What risks come from oversizing or undersizing HVAC systems? How private equity ownership can shift focus from quality service to sales. Why is doing the job right build trust, comfort, and long-term customer satisfaction? Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Gary McCreadie in Part 02 [00:37] - Are Customers More HVAC-Savvy Today? [03:04] - Why Load Calculations Prevent System Problems [03:50] - Risks of Oversizing and Undersizing Equipment [05:58] - Choosing the Right CRM Tools for Your Business [08:52] - Remote Support Apps Helping Young Technicians [10:03] - Private Equity's Impact on Service vs. Sales [15:17] - Correct Sizing for Better Comfort and Efficiency [16:24] - Balancing Profit with Quality HVAC Work This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow Scott Pierson on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pierson-15121a79/ Encompass Supply Chain Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-supply-chain-solutions-inc-/ Follow Gary McCreadie on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/ HVAC Know It All Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc/ Shelburne Soccer Club: https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.com/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

11 Elo 202519min

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 Know It All, starting from a small blog to a big platform. They discuss the changing industry, including the rise of heat pumps and the shift towards sales-focused training. They also dive into the generational gap, where older techs sometimes resist new tools and methods. Gary explains how digital tools are helping the younger generation work more efficiently. It's an honest conversation about adapting to change and improving the industry's future. Gary talks about the pressures of the HVAC trade and how it can be tough for workers, both mentally and physically. He shares how the industry's focus on sales is impacting technical skills. Gary and Scott discuss the generational gap, where older techs often resist new tools and methods. They explore how younger workers are more open to using digital tools, making their work faster and easier. Gary explains how embracing change and new technology can improve the work-life for everyone. It's a straightforward talk for techs who want to adapt and grow in a changing industry. Expect to Learn: How the HVAC trade is changing with new tools and methods. Why younger techs are embracing digital tools and faster work processes. How the generational gap affects training and adoption of new technology. Why is balancing sales skills with technical expertise is important for the future? How adapting to industry changes can improve work life for all technicians. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Gary McCreadie in Part 01 [02:03] - How Gary Started HVAC Know-It-All and His Mission [06:03] - The Generational Gap: Older vs. Younger Technicians [11:26] - The Role of Digital Tools in Modern HVAC Work [13:26] - How Technology is Shaping the Future of HVAC [19:03] - How AI and Info Access Improve Technician Skills This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow Scott Pierson on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pierson-15121a79/ Encompass Supply Chain Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/encompass-supply-chain-solutions-inc-/ Follow Gary McCreadie on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/ HVAC Know It All Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc/ Shelburne Soccer Club: https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.com/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

7 Elo 202522min

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 adds stress, but real support can change that. They both agree that focusing on people and clear processes leads to safer, happier, and more productive workplaces. Benjamin explains that many problems in the trades come from poor communication and a lack of training. He says stress builds when workers feel unheard or unsupported. Gary shares how this shows up in real job sites, like when teams aren't trained to cover for each other. They talk about Benjamin's pyramid model that starts with honest talk and leads to real teamwork. Both agree that simple changes like clear roles and caring leaders can lower stress and boost performance. Good culture helps people feel safe, valued, and ready to do their best work. Expect to Learn: How honest communication can reduce stress and improve teamwork. Why do many problems in the trades start with poor training and unclear roles? What Benjamin's pyramid model teaches about building a strong workplace. How fixing real issues helps both mental health and business success. Why does clear leadership and care for people lead to safer, better workdays? Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Part 02 with Benjamin Dryer [02:04] - When Employers Don't Value You & Setting Boundaries [07:04] - Soccer Analogy: Why Team Training Reduces Stress [11:20] - Fixing Problems Through Better Communication [16:56] - Why Taking Responsibility Relieves Stress [20:29] - The Start of Benjamin's Culture Consulting Journey [23:05] - Resistance from Leadership & Business Case for Culture [23:27] - How to Contact Benjamin & Final Thoughts on His Mission This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow the Guest Benjamin Dryer on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-dryer-72bb78240/ Culture Pyramid Implementation at Align & Elevate Consulting: https://www.alignandelevateconsulting.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/

4 Elo 202524min

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, support each other, and make job sites safer. It's a real and helpful talk for anyone who wants to work smarter, not harder, and change the old way of thinking. Benjamin talks about how the HVAC trade can wear people down, like carrying heavy stress every day. He shares how losing his father pushed him to speak up about mental health at work. Benjamin and Gary discuss why techs act tough but often feel alone inside. They talk about how better words and open talks can stop problems before they grow. Benjamin explains how learning to say what you feel makes teams stronger and safer. It's a real talk for techs who want to care for their minds, not just their tools, and build a better work life. Expect to Learn: How stress and poor communication impact mental health in the trades. Why the "tough guy" culture stops workers from speaking up. How Benjamin's personal loss led him to support mental health at work. Why learning to express feelings can improve teamwork and safety. How better conversations can break the cycle and create change on job sites. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction to Benjamin Dryer - Part 01 [02:23] - Starting in HVAC and Facing Mental Stress Early [05:35] - Losing His Father and the Impact on Mental Health [06:52] - "Be a Man" Culture and Why It Hurts the Trade [10:17] - Working Through Pain: Is Toughness Worth It? [15:20] - How Job Pressure and Mental Illness Can Cross Paths [17:54] - Generational Divide: Old Ways vs. Smarter Methods [19:24] - Younger Workers Want Purpose, Not Just a Paycheck This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow the Guest Benjamin Dryer on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-dryer-72bb78240/ Culture Pyramid Implementation at Align & Elevate Consulting: https://www.alignandelevateconsulting.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/

31 Heinä 202520min

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 solve old issues with air conditioning systems. They both agree that precision in setup and maintenance is essential for long-term reliability. Jamie explains that TT valves, like the Danfoss TR6, help HVAC systems maintain stable pressure, especially when conditions change. He says proper leak detection and accurate charging are vital for preventing damage to compressors. Gary notes that modern systems have new tech, like variable-speed fans, to keep pressures steady. They both agree that many older methods are inefficient or can cause issues, but balancing port valves and precision in maintenance make a big difference in system performance and longevity. Expect to Learn: How TT valves like the Danfoss TR6 help stabilize HVAC systems. Why accurate leak detection and charging are critical for compressor health. How modern tech, like variable-speed fans, improves system reliability. What issues can arise from unstable condensing pressures? Why are balanced port valves key for steady operation and longer equipment life? Episode Highlights: [00:32] - Introduction to Part 02 with Jamie Kitchen [02:02] - Accurate Leak Detection & Compressor Protection [05:35] - Balance Port Valves & Condensing Pressure Stability [09:32] - How Balance Port Valves Stabilize Pressure in Variable Conditions [12:21] - Importance of Subcooling for Proper Charging [19:20] - Correct Placement and Positioning of the Sensing Bulb [21:02] - Breakdown of the TR6 Valve and Its Multi-Refrigerant Capabilities [23:17] - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Van Video with Gary and Jamie This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow the Guest Jamie Kitchen on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kitchen/ Danfoss: https://www.linkedin.com/company/danfoss/ 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/

28 Heinä 202524min

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 help flow in both directions. Jamie explains why Danfoss uses stainless steel bulbs and tubes to stop leaks and handle rough conditions. It's a helpful talk for techs who want to understand heat pump valves better and install them correctly. Jamie explains how TX valves in heat pumps work like traffic lights for refrigerants, letting it flow the right way in heating or cooling. He shows how the valve uses pressure from a sensing bulb, a spring, and the coil to open or close. Jamie and Gary talk about why using an external equalizer helps the valve work better, and how check valves let refrigerants move both ways. Jamie also shares why Danfoss uses stainless steel parts; they last longer and don't break or leak. It's a smart guide for techs who want to understand these valves and avoid system issues. Expect to Learn: How TX valves work in both heating and cooling modes. Why heat pumps need valves that flow in both directions. How pressure and temperature control valve opening and closing. Why using an external equalizer helps the valve feed right. How stainless steel parts make the valve last longer and stay leak-free. Episode Highlights: [00:44] - Introduction to Jamie Kitchen - Part 01 [02:02] - What Makes Heat Pumps Different: Reversing Valve Basics [04:48] - How TXVs Work: Refrigerant Flow & Check Valve Role [06:25] - TXVs in Southern U.S. vs. Cold Climate Installations [10:36] - Why External Equalizers Help TXVs Feed Properly [16:05] - The Three Forces in a TXV: Bulb, Spring & Evaporator Pressure [19:23] - What's Inside the Bulb? Refrigerant Mix for Better Control [22:07] - Why Danfoss Uses Stainless Steel for Bulbs & Tubes This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: https://www.master.ca/ Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com Follow the Guest Jamie Kitchen on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kitchen/ Danfoss: https://www.linkedin.com/company/danfoss/ 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 Heinä 202524min