Building HVAC Science

In this engaging and insightful episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Matt Schwoegler, founder of Blaze Infrared and longtime thermography educator. Matt shares his unexpected journey into the world of infrared—from a marketing career in the ski industry to teaching thousands about heat transfer and thermal imaging. With deep humility and clarity, he walks us through critical lessons from his 20+ year career, including some humorous—and humbling—stories from the field. Matt discusses how interpreting thermal images isn't as straightforward as it seems. From false positives caused by built-in heaters to paint that doesn't behave as expected, we hear real-world examples that underscore the importance of formal training and mentorship in thermography. He emphasizes that while technology has become more affordable, the need for skill and knowledge has only grown. The conversation closes with a compelling call to approach thermography with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning. Matt pays tribute to the mentors who shaped his path and encourages listeners to seek guidance, invest in training, and pay it forward. Matt's quotes from the episode: "The price of the camera has nothing to do with your ability to use it well." "Humility is one of the most important qualities of a great trainer." "Infrared is like a hammer—easy to pick up, but only a skilled builder knows what to do with it." Here are a few standards Matt references: ASTM C1060- Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings (https://www.astm.org/c1060-11ar15.html) states your need a 10 C / 18 F delta T to check for missing or poorly performing insulation solar loading is referenced, that's where the 3 hr wait for wood frame buildings and up to 8 hrs for masonry structures comes from - That's how long the surface needs to be devoid of direct sunshine before inspecting with IR. ASTM E1186 - Standard Practices for Air Leakage Site Detection in Building Envelopes and Air Barrier Systems (https://www.astm.org/e1186-22.html) NOTE IR Mentioned in 1186 as one of the pressure test methods. states 5 C / 9 F delta T to see air leakage sites with IR ASTM E779 Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization (https://www.astm.org/e0779-19.html) Blaze Infrared: https://blazeinfrared.com/ Infrared Training Center (ITC): https://www.infraredtraining.com/ Matt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-schwoegler/ 1 hour Video on Thermography basics from The TruTech Tools Library: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qgCZCY6JCs This episode was recorded in June 2025.

In this in-depth episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Phil Farese, CEO of Mojave HVAC, to explore the cutting edge of desiccant dehumidification technology. Phil, whose career began in physics at Cornell and research at Princeton before moving into consulting at McKinsey and leadership roles at NREL, Enphase, and now Mojave, brings a rare mix of scientific rigor and market savvy to the HVAC space. The conversation traces the evolution of liquid desiccant systems and Mojave's unique approach that combines vapor compression and liquid desiccant in a single DOAS (Dedicated Outdoor Air System) unit. The result? Enhanced dehumidification, reduced energy use, and precision control of sensible and latent loads—at market-competitive prices. Phil outlines how Mojave's patented media bed and regeneration systems avoid many of the pitfalls that plagued earlier desiccant systems, while also maintaining ease of installation, low maintenance, and strong reliability. Listeners also hear about Mojave's service philosophy, tech training programs, and broad rep network, plus a discussion of ideal use cases, efficiency standards like ISMRE (Integrated Seasonal Moisture Removal Efficiency), and how the system outperforms traditional DOAS units. Whether you're an engineer, contractor, or building owner looking to optimize HVAC performance while cutting energy bills, this episode delivers clear, science-backed insight into where dehumidification is headed. Quotes from the episode: "We're not undoing cooling with reheat—we're using that energy to do something useful: regenerate the desiccant." "Liquid desiccants are like the honey of HVAC—safe, natural, and surprisingly powerful." "It looks like an air conditioner. That's what contractors tell us—and that's the point." Phil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-farese-49a81b1/ Mojave Energy Systems: https://mojavehvac.com/ Tony Mormino, our friend at HVAC-TV did a recent interview with Mojave: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hvac-tv/episodes/Liquid-Desiccant-Dehumidification-Explained-e33elio/a-abvfahu Eutectic system defined: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eutectic_system AHRI Standard 920,Performance Rating of Direct Expansion-dedicated Outdoor Air System Units: https://www.ahrinet.org/search-standards/ahri-920-i-p-and-921-si-performance-rating-direct-expansion-dedicated-outdoor-air-system-units Papers and reports by Phil: Tool to Prioritize Energy Efficiency Investments (NREL 2012): https://docs.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/54799.pdf How to build a low-energy future (2012): https://www.nature.com/articles/488275a ASHRAE paper on Liquid Desiccants: https://mojavehvac.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Liquid-Desiccant-Field-Campaign-Final-2.pdf McKinsey paper:Unlocking Energy Efficiency in the US Economy (2009): https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/dotcom/client_service/Sustainability/PDFs/US_energy_efficiency_full_report.pdf This episode was recorded in June 2025.

In this high-energy episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Tersh Blissett—entrepreneur, podcaster, and automation enthusiast—for a deep dive into how AI and automation are transforming service businesses. Tersh, known for running multiple HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies, shares his journey from podcasting beginnings to becoming a Zapier expert and automation evangelist. He explains how AI voice tools, custom GPTs, and platforms like Notebook LM and PhoneTap are helping streamline operations, improve call conversions, and create more consistent customer experiences. The conversation explores both the promise and the pitfalls of AI, from building SOPs and staff training bots to setting up Slack-integrated employee handbooks. Tersh doesn't shy away from the challenges—like automating broken processes or managing security risks—but encourages listeners not to ignore these powerful tools. He wraps up by offering guidance and community resources for those looking to start their AI journey, reinforcing the message: don't automate for automation's sake—do it to solve real problems. Quotes from today's episode: "If you do something more than three times a week, optimize it, automate it, or delegate it." "Don't automate just to automate—solve a problem first." "Authentic human tone is going to win, even if AI is writing it." Tersh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Trade Automation Pros: https://tradeautomationpros.com/ Tersh's email: tersh@tradeautomationpros.com/ Tersh's Podcast: https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/ Other links mentioned in today's episode: https://scribehow.com/ Capture computer based learning/processes Skool.com (look for the Automation Foundation) www.plaud.ai/products/plaud-notepin (always recording pendant) https://notebooklm.google/ Understand anything https://chat.chatbotapp.ai/claude Claude by Anthropic This episode was recorded in June 2025.

In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome back Brent Davidson, founder of the U.S. Heat Pump Summit, for an energizing discussion that soars from glider flights to the frontlines of heat pump education and adoption. Brent shares the story behind launching the Summit—from a hunch inspired by his solar-industry background to a growing movement that now brings together top contractors, technical experts, manufacturers, and rebate program leaders. The goal? To improve both the business and field deployment of air and water-based heat pump solutions. Brent outlines what sets the Summit apart: a laser focus on real-world, immediately actionable knowledge, a casual and collaborative vibe, and a mission to unify high-performance trades around the electrification of homes. This year's event, happening November 18–19 at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA, will feature expanded tracks, a full trade show floor, and a speaker lineup packed with industry leaders. The conversation closes with a nerdy deep dive into the "coffin corner" of aviation physics—showcasing Brent's curious mind and setting the tone for the Summit itself: smart, focused, and driven to elevate the industry. The first podcast Brent came on: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep132-the-heat-pump-summit-with-brent-davidson-august-2023/ US Heat Pump Summit: https://www.usheatpumpsummit.com/ Brent's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdavidson/ Brent's email: Brent@usheatpumpsummit.com This episode was recorded in June 2025.

"Proposals don't save energy… action does." — Bill Spohn "I didn't know how cool this thing was until we started sharing it with the world." — Amanda Godward "Change is hard—but that's what makes it great." — Amanda quoting Ross Trethewey from This Old House In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Amanda Godward, founder of Ecotelligent Homes and Ecotelligent Software. Amanda shares her journey from mechanical engineer in the auto industry to a passionate home performance contractor and software developer. Her Excel-based audit tool, born from a need to streamline customer reports and drive action, eventually evolved into a full-blown mobile and desktop app that's now saving contractors hours per appointment. Ecotelligence Software is designed by a contractor for contractors. It supports fast, accurate energy audits and work orders, including customizable good-better-best proposals, automated workflows, and rich documentation via mobile-friendly tools. Amanda highlights how her engineering background helped her embed best practices, consistency, and compliance into the platform, resulting in better customer outcomes and more efficient field operations. From audit to install, Amanda's thoughtful approach and personal joy in helping others shines through. The conversation underscores the value of consultative selling, real-time proposals, and how the right tool can empower contractors to fix more homes faster—all while delighting customers and installation crews alike. Amanda is offering discount code: BSHVAC to get half off your first month of service with Ecotelligent, this code expires June 30, 2025. Ecotelligent software: https://ecotelligentsoftware.com/ Amanda's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-godward-28898b9/ Amanda's email: amanda@ecotelligentsoftware.com Amanda's home performance business: https://www.ecotelligenthomes.com/ This episode was recorded in May 2025.

"The process doesn't fail. The technician fails to follow the process." – Dirk Nauman In this inspiring episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Dirk Nauman—HVAC trainer, simulator inventor, and founder of Visual 3D Academy. Dirk shares his personal transformation from a nervous first-time trainer to an industry innovator dedicated to improving HVAC education through simulation and visualization. He discusses how necessity drove him to create his first HVAC simulator from scrap components, eventually evolving it into a line of compact training tools now used in schools, prisons, and technical programs across North America. Dirk also introduces the Visual 3D Academy platform, a 3D-based learning system designed to immerse students in HVAC theory like never before. From diagnosing faults to exploring animated equipment cutaways, learners can access both physical simulators and virtual models. He emphasizes the importance of foundational understanding and how his mission includes supporting returning citizens and changing lives through education. This episode is packed with insights on building training tools from scratch, applying theory in meaningful ways, and using technology to close the skills gap in HVAC. Whether you're a contractor, educator, or technician, Dirk's story will energize your approach to learning—and teaching—the trade. Dirk''s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-nauman/ Visual 3D Academy website: https://www.visual3dacademy.com/ HVAC Simulator Website: https://hvacsimulator.com/ Dirk's Technician vs. Mechanic video: https://vimeo.com/1057050226 Dirk's email address: dirk@hvacsimulator.com The book he mentions (By Daniel W. Bixby): Product Training for the Technical Expert: https://a.co/d/0lmP00o This episode was recorded in May 2025.

"We're not guessing what's inside the walls—we're measuring how homes really use energy." Max Reichlin In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Max Reichlin from Clean Power Research to explore a groundbreaking HVAC tool: Thermentor. Designed to bridge the gap between estimated and actual residential energy loads, Thermentor leverages real energy usage data to perform virtual energy audits. The goal? More accurate, faster, and accessible load calculations that empower contractors and homeowners alike—particularly when considering heat pumps, dual fuel systems, or just right-sizing equipment. Max shares the origin story of Thermentor, explains how the tool works, and discusses its current deployment across a handful of U.S. states, with more to come. He also outlines future plans, including better integration with real-time thermostat data and improved incentive visibility. Listeners will gain insight into how traditional Manual J calculations may overshoot actual needs, and why tools like Thermentor could reshape how we approach home comfort and efficiency. Whether you're an HVAC pro or a curious homeowner, this episode delivers valuable context on where HVAC technology is headed—and how data-driven tools are making that future a little smarter. Max's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxreichlin/ Thermentor website: https://www.thermentor.com/ Thermentor White Papers: https://www.thermentor.com/how-does-it-work/#white-papers This episode was recorded in May 2025.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Ben Hildebrandt, a passionate advocate for building science and green technology education at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). Ben shares his winding career path—from automotive mechanics to aircraft maintenance to architectural technology—and how that journey has shaped his deep commitment to sustainable building practices. Ben discusses the role of applied research at SAIT, highlighting its focus on real-world implementation of green technologies in residential and commercial buildings. He covers the challenges of deep energy retrofits, labor shortages, and siloed efforts within the industry, and offers insights into training programs aimed at bridging those gaps. The conversation also explores comfort, thermal resilience, and the importance of integrating mechanical systems with building envelopes to avoid costly failures. Whether you're a contractor, designer, educator, or just curious about the future of high-performance buildings, this episode delivers a comprehensive look at what's working—and what still needs work—in the green building movement. Some great quotes from the episode: You can't have a green building if you ignore building science—it's the foundation for comfort, health, and durability." "The real challenge isn't technology—it's training enough people to use it right." "We don't need more silos in this industry. We need bridges." Ben's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brhildebrandt/ Residential Deep Energy Retrofit Guide (Free PDF Download): https://www.enbix.ca/document/a-guide-to-deep-energy-retrofits/ SAIT Applied Research and Innovation Services Hub: https://www.sait.ca/research-and-innovation-services Retrofit Canada (some great completed Canadian Retrofit Case studies here): https://retrofitcanada.com/ This episode was recorded in May 2025.

In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by a special guest who's carrying on the Spohn legacy—Billy Spohn. The trio recaps their experience at the 2025 National Home Performance Conference in New Orleans, the largest in the event's history, with over 2,800 attendees. They reflect on the continued convergence of HVAC and building performance disciplines, and how this cross-pollination is finally taking root at scale. From highlights in the expo hall, including interest in the new RetroTec Air Tracer and the Testo 860i thermal imager, to insightful sessions on whole-home solutions and ventilation maintenance, the conversation underscores the critical value of collaboration and continuing education. Bill shares a touching moment from his "Faces of Energy Efficiency" interview, revealing how this conference shaped his path and even inspired the founding of TruTech Tools. The episode closes with admiration for industry legends like John Tooley and rising influencers like Genry Garcia, who exemplify the power of blending theory, tools, and field application. Whether you're a veteran or a first-time attendee, this recap will inspire you to think holistically about comfort, health, and energy use in buildings—and maybe even join the community at the next show in Columbus, OH, in 2026. The next NHPC in 2026: https://building-performance.org/events/national/ Our lineup of Building Performance and HVAC tools: https://trutechtools.com/all-categories LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kaiser-323a1563/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-spohn-jr-a06201a3/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/ This episode was recorded in April 2025.

In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Jeff Cherif and David Madden from JB Industries, a long-standing, U.S.-based HVAC tool manufacturer with deep roots in Aurora, Illinois. Jeff shares his fascinating journey from Motorola executive in Dubai to co-owner of JB Industries, sparked by a chance rooftop encounter with one of JB's own vacuum pumps in the Middle East. David brings a multi-generational connection to the business and reflects on the evolution of JB's manufacturing ethos and engineering depth. The conversation dives into what sets JB apart: a true commitment to American manufacturing, ultra-durable tool designs, and a strong feedback loop with HVAC contractors. The team shares stories behind new product development, including their latest line of wireless probes and a replaceable-sensor micron gauge. They emphasize quality, repairability, and a willingness to collaborate directly with field pros who have fresh ideas. It's a heartfelt and detailed look at a company staying grounded in principles while pushing innovation forward. Link to JB's website: https://www.jbind.com/ Link to JB's product line: https://trutechtools.com/jb-industries.html Link to the JB Product Ideas form: https://www.jbind.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/JB-Product-Idea-Submission-Form_web.pdf JB ClimateClass Wireless probes:https://trutechtools.com/jb-climate-class.html/ Jeff's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-cherif-15351a1/ Dave's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-madden-926b6890/ This episode was recorded in April 2025.