Make Trades Great Again

Send us Fan MailThis week the guys are joined virtually by the hosts of the Appetite For Construction podcast, John Mesenbrink & Tim Ward. It's that time of year again where we take a look back and even forward into the new year. There was some fun bs'ing as well. Hope you enjoy!Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Send us Fan MailIt's roadtrip time for Andy as he met up with Eric for a super top secret install in Northern MN. You’ll have to watch [or listen] to learn all about the project. If the podcast just isn’t enough you could search the tag “#duluthbuild” on Instagram for more from the project job site. Okay, J/K....Air-to-Water Heat Pumps are having a time right now, this project had the guys working in Eric's in-laws home to connect the Viessmann Vitocal heat pump to a whole home hydronic heating system. Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

The hosts dive into the quirky challenges of barn dominium construction, tackling issues from inexperienced owners to city permits. They share a hilarious recount of their Napa Valley trip, merging wine tasting stories with nostalgic jingles. The discussion uncovers the trials of heating a mountain yurt turned art studio, while they reminisce about the importance of effective teamwork in tackling plumbing projects. Expect laughter and relatable tales about the ups and downs of the trade industry!

Send us Fan MailCanadian apprentice Adam Parent joins the guys to talk about his experiences and thoughts bout joining the plumbing trade in Canada. Adam's experience in both residential and commercial work doing both plumbing and heating new construction, remodel and service have helped him hone his skills and find a place where he's challenged but excited to learn & do more. Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Send us Fan MailIt's never great when service vehicles break down but it's even worse when local mechanics are out weeks for repairs and parts are hard to track down. This week Andy retells the story of a relative simple fix for a recent breakdown. How hard can it be to replace a starter on a 2020 Ford Transit anyway? Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the trades industry! Hear intriguing ways AI tools, like ChatGPT, streamline tasks such as heat load calculations and proposal writing. The hosts discuss the balance between embracing tech and maintaining personal connections. Insights on troubleshooting tricky equipment, like a stubborn van, reveal the importance of clear communication. Plus, strategies for navigating complex client dynamics in HVAC work provide valuable perspectives on trust and transparent service.

Send us Fan MailIndustry trade shows are an awesome way to see the latest new technology, to network with manufacturers and their reps, or even make purchases with some of the best deals of the year. This week the guys ask ChatGPT for a list of important shows throughout the plumbing, hvac and building industries. Why you should attend, where and when they are, are all discussed in this episode. Thanks for listening! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

The hosts tackle a whirlwind of listener questions, turning fan mail challenges into humorous exchanges. They dive into the importance of cleffy balancing valves in hydronic systems and the benefits of innovative plumbing solutions. Insights into boiler setups and recirculation practices reveal essential maintenance tips. Nostalgia meets modern tech as they weigh the latest Apple products against refurbished options. Plus, a cautionary tale about using gas to manage gophers sparks laughter and engagement, showcasing their unique connection with the audience.

Send us Fan MailWhat do you do when your spouse leaves town for the weekend? The only obvious answer for Eric was to tear out their two tankless water heaters and the boiler so he could start over. But wait, there’s more! In order for this to be called a success it had be finished before Heather returned home after just two days away. Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Send us Fan MailThe title may be confusing or even misleading. The guys talk about a recent trailer purchase Eric made for the business. It's not anything special but it should help with the workflow. Here's to hoping he made the right purchase! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email