UV Dye For Refrigerant Leak Detection w/Matthew Cowley

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tom Lorenz the Director of Product Management at Copeland and Emerson, Randy Ruiz, the chief engineer at Emersion, and Ben Reed who is the principal of Teal Maker and Technical Marketing Specialist at HVAC Know it All and measureQuick, about a new wireless HVAC tool called the Equipment Interface Module (EIM). Tom explains how it helps fix wiring problems without needing to pull new wires, making upgrades easier. Randy shares how the team built and tested the EIM to make sure it is strong and reliable. Ben adds that wireless tech is getting better and saves time and money. They also discuss how the EIM works with the Sensi Touch 2 thermostat for full system control. Tom Lorenz, Randy Ruiz, and Ben Reed talk about a new wireless tool that helps HVAC systems work without extra wiring. Tom explains how the Equipment Interface Module (EIM) makes upgrades easier, even when wires are missing or broken. Randy shares how they built and tested the product to be tough and reliable. Ben talks about why wireless tech saves time and money and is now ready for real-world use. They also explain how the EIM works with the Sensi Touch 2 thermostat to fully control heating, cooling, and air quality. Here, Tom Lorenz, Randy Ruiz, and Ben Reed talk about a new wireless HVAC tool called the Equipment Interface Module (EIM). They explain how it helps fix wiring problems without pulling new wires, making system upgrades faster and easier. They also share how the EIM makes setups simple by connecting wirelessly to the Sensi Touch 2 thermostat. The guests clear up any confusion about wireless tech, showing how tough, easy, and reliable it has become for real-world HVAC jobs. Expect to Learn: How wireless tools like the EIM make HVAC upgrades faster and easier. The Sensi Touch 2 thermostat is key to full system control with wireless tech. How building reliable wireless connections saves time, money, and effort. When and why using a wireless module is better than pulling new wires. The role of strong design and testing in making wireless HVAC tools work well. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Intro to the guests Tom, Randy, and Ben in Part 01 [00:11] – Defining the Equipment Interface Module and its HVAC use cases [01:22] – The Engineering process behind developing the EIM [02:38] – Wireless tech evolution in HVAC: Ben’s IoT experience and insights [04:44] – Solving legacy HVAC challenges with wireless control solutions [05:58] – Powering the EIM and replacing 8-wire installs in retrofit scenarios [08:33] – Outdoor EIM power setup and dual-module wireless configuration [09:50] – Cost benefits of EIM vs. traditional wiring in retrofit scenarios [12:54] – Step-by-step EIM pairing with Sensi Touch 2 thermostat interface [14:26] – Key benefits of wireless vs. wired HVAC communication [17:16] – EIM support for multi-stage HVAC, humidity, and ventilation control 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/ Follow the Guests, Tom Lorenz, Randy Ruiz, and Ben Reed, on: Tom Lorenz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-lorenz-4632338/ Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ Emerson: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emerson/ Randy Ruiz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-ruiz-3b3a3ba7/ Emerson: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emerson/ Ben Reed: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-reed-/ Teal Maker: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tealmaker/ HVAC Know it All: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc/ measureQuick: https://www.linkedin.com/company/measurequick-application/ 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 Mai 20min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Marlee Spiegelberg and Montana McElwain from Condair USA/CA about mold, humidity, and air quality. They explain what the water activity factor is and how it connects to mold growth. They also talk about keeping homes and buildings safe by controlling humidity. Their goal is to clear up common fears about mold and show better ways to manage air quality. Marlee and Montana explain why people are often scared of mold when it’s not always a big danger. They talk about how keeping the right humidity can stop mold from growing. They also share how new technology helps control air quality better. Good control systems can protect homes, businesses, and even hospitals by keeping the air safe and healthy. Throughout this episode, Marlee and Montana talk about why managing humidity the right way is so important. They explain that using the right systems and keeping moisture levels steady helps prevent mold and keeps buildings healthy over time. Expect to Learn: How mold growth is linked to high humidity and water activity levels. Why keeping indoor humidity between 40-60% helps protect health and buildings. How new humidification technology controls moisture safely and saves energy. Why good air quality management is key for homes, businesses, and healthcare facilities. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Introduction with Marlee Spiegelberg and Montana McElwain [01:36] – Why Mold Happens: Clearing Up Fears and How Humidity Plays a Role [06:18] – How cold weather and windows cause condensation [08:26] – Simple ways to prevent mold and water problems [10:18] – Clearing up myths about misting systems and mold [13:06] – How factories control humidity for safety and products [15:59] – New smart humidifiers for homes and energy savings, Cold water and Steam [17:17] – How Smart Mesh Nebulizers Control Humidity and Save Energy at Home [20:23] – Humidification challenges in healthcare Buildings [22:52] – Adiabatic Systems in Ducts: Bypass Humidifiers, Misting, and Challenges [26:05] – Wetted Evaporative Media in HVAC Systems and Cooling Towers [29:11] – Adiabatic Humidification in Healthcare: DL Systems and Smart Controls [32:55] – Final Thoughts: Adiabatic Humidification, Water Activity, & Air Quality 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/  Follow the Guests Marlee Spiegelberg and Montana McElwain on: Montana McElwain: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcelwain/ Marlee Spiegelberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlee-spiegelberg-p-eng-75386a91/ Condair USA/CA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/condair-usa-ca/  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 Mai 32min

On this short episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, Gary talks to us about A3 refrigerant parts and why they need to be intrinically safe and can't be any part off the truck.     Check out Jobber for a 2 week free trial.  getjobber.com/hvacknowitall

29 Apr 5min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with Patrick Butler, a seasoned HVAC technician and educator, and Field Service Supervisor at SAV-MOR MECHANICAL, INC. Patrick, who has over 20 years in the industry, shares his journey from apprentice to expert. In Part 2, they discuss the shift in technician training, from old-school methods to modern approaches using social media and AI tools. Patrick also talks about the importance of allowing apprentices to fail and learn, while embracing new tech like Microsoft Copilot to streamline work and improve skills. Patrick Butler talks about the shift in HVAC training, explaining how apprentices now have access to online resources and AI tools like Microsoft Copilot. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and how embracing new technology helps technicians stay competitive in the ever-evolving HVAC field. Throughout this episode, Patrick shares how HVAC training has evolved, with online resources and AI tools playing a big role. He stresses that allowing apprentices to learn from failure and staying updated with new tech is essential for technicians to improve and succeed in the field. Expect to Learn: How HVAC training has changed over the years. Why apprentices need the chance to fail and learn. How AI tools like Microsoft Copilot help technicians work smarter. Why adapting to new tech is important for HVAC pros. How modern training methods are shaping the future of the trade. Episode Highlights: [00:33] – Introduction to Patrick Butler in the Second Part [02:10] – Old-School Training vs. Modern Methods [04:56] – Why Apprentices Need to Be Allowed to Fail [07:02] – The Importance of Humility in HVAC Training [09:35] – AI's Impact on the Trade: Patrick’s Approach to Teaching Apprentices [13:01] – The Role and Advantages of AI Tools like Microsoft Copilot for Techs [19:46] – How New Tech is Shaping the Future of HVAC Training 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/ Follow the Guest Patrick Butler on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-butler-227489308/ Savmor.net: https://www.savmor.net/  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 Apr 22min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Patrick Butler, an expert in commercial HVAC and building automation and Field Service Supervisor at SAV-MOR MECHANICAL, INC. Patrick, with years of hands-on experience, explains how building automation is changing how we run HVAC systems. He talks about how it saves energy, makes things work better, and helps find problems fast, especially in big buildings. He also shares how smart tech like controllers and inverters are now being used in both homes and commercial setups. Patrick Butler talks about how building automation is changing the way we manage HVAC systems. He explains how automation helps save energy, keep buildings running smoothly, and make quick repairs. Patrick shares his experience with both mechanical HVAC work and building controls, discussing how smart systems like chillers, pumps, and sensors are integrated. He also touches on the importance of understanding both the mechanical and control sides to be successful in the industry. Here, Patrick talks about how building automation is changing the way we control HVAC systems. He explains how new technologies, like smart controllers and sensors, are improving energy efficiency and making it easier to monitor and manage buildings. He also clears up misconceptions about how complex these systems can be, showing how simple and effective they really are. Expect to Learn: How building automation is improving energy efficiency in HVAC systems. Why smart controllers and sensors are key to better building management. How understanding both HVAC and control systems makes a technician more successful. How automation helps troubleshoot and maintain HVAC equipment more easily. The growing role of technology, like chillers, pumps, and inverters, in modern HVAC systems. Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Introduction to Patrick Butler and Building Automation [01:23] – Patrick’s background in HVAC and controls [01:56] – The role of building automation in modern HVAC systems [03:46] – How smart controllers and sensors improve energy efficiency [06:56] – Understanding DDC and application-specific controllers [08:28] – Troubleshooting HVAC systems using building automation [10:39] – The integration of chillers, pumps, and inverters in HVAC systems [12:25] – The importance of both mechanical and control knowledge for technicians [19:10] – How automation helps prevent HVAC system issues [20:12] – Simplifying complex HVAC systems through smart technologies 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/  Follow the Guest Patrick Butler on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-butler-227489308/ Savmor.net: https://www.savmor.net/ 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 Apr 23min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes back Tyler Nelson from Sauermann Group for Part 2 of their talk on combustion analysis. Tyler shares more about how tuning equipment with a combustion analyzer can help HVAC techs improve safety, performance, and system life. He also explains how to read O2, CO, and CO2 levels correctly. Tyler Nelson breaks down why combustion numbers matter and how techs can use this info on installs, maintenance, and safety checks. He also talks about the best places to insert the probe for accurate readings and why showing your work builds customer trust. Throughout this episode, Tyler shares real tips for HVAC techs who want to do better work. He says analyzing every job helps avoid issues and keeps systems safe, while also proving the work you’ve done. Expect to Learn: How using a combustion analyzer helps make HVAC systems safer.   Why O2 and CO levels are key numbers to watch during testing.   How to choose the right spot to place your probe for best results.   Why saving test reports can help show the customer your good work.   How even small changes in pressure can affect system performance.   Episode Highlights: [00:00] – Introduction to Part 2 with Tyler Nelson [02:16] –Tuning manifold pressure and waiting for steady readings [04:47] – Why people love doing combustion analysis [05:29] – Saving readings and showing clear before and after reports [07:34] – Key analyzer readings and how O2 impacts other gases [11:20] – What Co Air Free means and why it matters [12:40] – Best probe placement for proper test readings [18:00] – Why testing matters even in tricky situations    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/ Follow the Guest Tyler Nelson on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/ Sauermann Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sauermann-group/ 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/

21 Apr 21min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tyler Nelson from Sauermann Group about the role of combustion analysis in HVAC systems. Tyler, a passionate expert in combustion and commissioning, shares how the industry has evolved from old-school tools to advanced digital analyzers. He explains why checking combustion on every gas appliance is key to safety and how proper commissioning starts long before system startup. Tyler also talks about Sauermann’s move into making their own analyzers, built on industry feedback and packed with unique features like long sensor life and advanced diagnostics. Tyler Nelson talks about why combustion analysis matters when setting up or servicing gas appliances. He shares how tools have changed over time and why using an analyzer is key for safety and accuracy. He explains how checking fresh air and venting is part of commissioning and how even small mistakes can lead to big issues. Tyler also talks about Sauermann’s new analyzers, how they were built with feedback from real techs, and why yearly calibration is important to stay safe and avoid legal trouble. Here, Tyler talks about why every gas appliance should be tested with a combustion analyzer, no matter how it looks or sounds. He explains that just like a doctor checks your blood work, a tech needs to check how the system is really running inside. This helps avoid danger and shows proof of a safe setup. Expect to Learn: Why combustion analysis is important during HVAC installs and service. How checking systems can help avoid safety risks and legal issues. The role of proper air intake and venting in system setup. How new analyzers offer longer sensor life and smart features. Why yearly calibration keeps tools accurate and legally safe.   Episode Highlights:  [00:00] – Introduction to Tyler Nelson in Part 01 [01:14] – How combustion tools evolved and why the industry must stay open to change [06:01] – Why checking combustion is like a health check for every gas system [07:43] – Understanding the Wanton Act and liability risks [08:36] – Differences in safety rules across states and countries [13:08] – How Sauermann built its analyzers and what makes them unique [16:32] – Why yearly calibration is a must for safety and accuracy [18:10] – Why commissioning starts early and how poor venting creates hidden risks [22:09] – Real example: Overfired system and how testing caught it   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/  Follow the Guest Tyler Nelson on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/ Sauermann Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sauermann-group/ 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/

17 Apr 23min

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Michael Richardson, better known as MC from New Zealand. Michael, who is Flexibility Services Manager at Transpower New Zealand, the national grid operator. In Part 2, they discuss smart HVAC tech, demand response, and how commercial innovations are moving into residential systems. Michael shares insights on technician training, energy-saving tools, and why adapting to new tech is key for the trade. Michael Richardson talks about the rise of smart HVAC tech in homes, explaining how tools like demand response and connected devices can boost energy capability. He also shares why technicians need to improve new tech to stay ahead in the changing HVAC landscape. Throughout this episode, Michael talks about how new HVAC technology is changing the trade and helping improve energy use. He says learning and adapting to these changes is key for technicians to grow and build trust with customers. Expect to Learn: How smart HVAC devices are making homes more energy efficient. Why demand response helps reduce power use during peak times. How IoT and apps are giving technicians better tools for diagnostics. Why it's important for techs to keep learning and adapting to new systems. How shifting commercial tech into homes is changing the HVAC trade.   Episode Highlights:  [00:35] – Introduction to the Second Part with Michael Richardson [02:05] – Smart HVAC devices and Wi-Fi setup at home [03:56] – What demand response is and how it works [05:27] – Customer-Friendly Energy Saving with Smart Climate Apps [10:00] – Heat pump innovation by Octopus Energy and others [11:17] – Combining EV charging with heat pumps [13:05] – New inverter heat pump with self-charging mode [16:52] – Using apps and tools for HVAC diagnostics [19:29] – Advice for techs to adapt and grow with new tech [23:07] – How Smart Tools Improve Communication Between Techs and Journeymen   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/ Follow the Guest Michael Richardson on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-richardson-b3058338/ Transpower New Zealand: https://www.linkedin.com/company/transpower/ 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 Apr 25min