Building HVAC Science

In this heartfelt episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Manly Arnason, an HVAC business owner from Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. Manly shares his journey of transformation—from a challenging past to becoming a dedicated tradesperson with a mission to bring integrity and quality to the HVAC industry. Drawing from his experiences running a small business, Manly opens up about the challenges of implementing proper practices in the trades, the importance of continuous education, and the role of community in fostering growth and excellence. Manly's story highlights the power of personal and professional change, emphasizing his commitment to commissioning systems properly, adhering to codes, and treating customers with the respect they deserve. The conversation touches on the unique challenges of working in the Canadian climate, the significance of national apprenticeship programs, and the value of building a like-minded community to support others striving to improve their craft. This inspiring episode is a reminder that growth, both personal and professional, begins with a decision to do better. His business website: https://www.firstcallbrandon.ca/ His business on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstcallbrandon Manly's email: firstcall2255@gmail.com This episode was recorded in January 2025.

In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jason Esteves and Dan Kelly from Seitron Americas. The discussion offers an in-depth look at Seitron's evolution, its role in the HVAC industry, and the company's dedication to training and customer support. Jason and Dan share their personal journeys, recounting how they started in the industry, their mentorship under the late Ray Biarnes, and their passion for delivering high-quality products and service. The conversation highlights Seitron's live-fire training academy, the launch of new products like the BeSafe portable gas monitors and combustion analyzers, and their upcoming refrigeration tools debuting at AHR Expo. The guests emphasize the company's focus on customer feedback, innovation, and a family-oriented culture. Personal anecdotes, such as Jason's son competing in the Little League World Series and their mutual connection to their soccer coach turned mentor, add a relatable and heartfelt dimension to the episode. This episode is a must-listen for HVAC professionals eager to learn more about Seitron's commitment to supporting technicians, innovating in the field, and fostering a sense of community in the industry. Find Seitron at Booth 5391 at the AHR expo Seitron's homepage: https://seitron.com/en_us/ Seitron Products at TruTech Tools: https://trutechtools.com/seitron-americas.html Jason's contact info: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-esteves-9690255/ jesteves@seitronamericas.com Dan's contact info: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-kelly-b387b873/ dkelly@seitronamericas.com This episode was recorded in January 2025.

In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Eric Kaiser is joined by Robert Bean, an ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer and a renowned expert on indoor environmental quality (IEQ). Together, they explore the intricate relationship between architecture, thermal comfort, and HVAC systems. Robert shares insights from his extensive travels, observations of traditional architecture, and key lessons from his work in designing high-performance buildings. The discussion highlights the critical distinction between energy efficiency and human comfort, emphasizing that discomfort often drives energy use. Robert explains foundational concepts like mean radiant temperature (MRT) and operative temperature and how they profoundly affect perceived comfort. He challenges common industry assumptions, such as relying solely on air temperature for thermal comfort, and advocates for a comprehensive approach that includes radiant, convective, and architectural solutions. Listeners will gain practical advice on incorporating IEQ principles into design, leveraging tools like the ASHRAE Standard 55 and Robert's free eBook, Thermal Comfort Principles and Practical Applications for Residential Buildings. The conversation concludes with a call to prioritize human comfort in every aspect of building design and operation. Get the free eBook mentioned here: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13843486/ Here is Robert's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbeanret/ Center for Built Environments Thermal Comfort Tool: https://comfort.cbe.berkeley.edu/ Robert joined us in 2017 for episode #4: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep4-it-takes-more-than-a-good-hvac-system-to-deliver-comfort/ This episode was recorded in January 2025.

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser welcomes David Richardson from the National Comfort Institute. David shares his journey from starting as a "gopher" for his father's HVAC business to becoming a leading advocate and instructor for high-performance HVAC systems. The discussion delves into the evolution of HVAC standards, focusing on the importance of measurements, diagnostics, and craftsmanship in delivering comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. David introduces the concept of high-performance HVAC, emphasizing the importance of field measurements to diagnose and solve system inefficiencies. The conversation highlights tools like the TrueFlow® Grid, which have revolutionized testing accuracy and streamlined processes. They also touch on customer engagement, the challenges of breaking industry habits, and the importance of a growth mindset when adopting new practices. The episode concludes with David encouraging HVAC professionals to embrace small, consistent improvements, measure system performance on their own projects, and engage with the growing community of like-minded industry peers who are eager to share knowledge. Here is David's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-richardson-41502112/ NCI's HOMEPAGE: https://www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com/ NCI Store on TruTech website: https://trutechtools.com/nci-store.html Find the Digital TrueFlow® Grid at TruTechTools®: https://trutechtools.com/trueflow This episode was recorded in January 2025.

In this insightful episode of Building HVAC Science, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser reconnect with Silas Hoeppner for a follow-up discussion that dives deeper into optimizing comfort and efficiency in existing homes. Silas shares his journey of transitioning from a house-centric approach to an occupant-centric model in his work, detailing the lessons he's learned and how these shifts have reshaped his philosophy. You can find more details on Silas' backstory in Episode 193, found here: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep193-building-performance-with-purpose-silas-hoeppners-journey-november-2024/ Silas explains the importance of understanding homeowners' unique goals and success metrics rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the value of asking the right questions, effectively addressing comfort issues, and avoiding assumptions about efficiency or customer priorities. Silas also explores the nuances of balancing technical precision with customer communication, highlighting real-life examples of problem-solving that reflect this paradigm shift. The conversation touches on common misconceptions, such as the oversizing of heat pumps and misplaced priorities in energy audits. Silas concludes by offering actionable advice for listeners: prioritize clear communication, understand the occupants' real needs, and ensure solutions align with both immediate and long-term goals. Here is his LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silasjames/ This episode was recorded in December 2024.

In this milestone episode, Bill Spohn and co-host Eric Kaiser welcome Bryan Orr, the instigat-ORR behind the creation of the Building HVAC Science podcast. They dive deep into the podcast's origin story, reflecting on how Bryan's love for audio and creative expression sparked a wave of content that has deeply impacted the HVAC industry. Bryan shares his journey from audio experimentation as a child to podcasting professionally, highlighting the values of curiosity, passion, and the abundance mindset in both personal and professional life. Bill and Bryan discuss how podcasting has shaped their careers and relationships, emphasizing the joy of connecting with people, sharing knowledge, and leaving a legacy. Bryan lauds Bill's warm, engaging voice and thoughtful approach to podcasting, while Bill credits Bryan for mentoring him into the space. They share insights into the challenges and rewards of consistent content creation and how the show has evolved to explore topics that truly inspire them. Looking forward, Bill envisions a gradual transition, with Eric taking on more of the driving role while Bill continues as a passionate participant. The episode concludes with a plug for the HVACR Training Symposium, an event Bryan leads to connect industry professionals and advance the field. HVACR SCHOOL WEBSITE (Chock full of resources!):https://hvacrschool.com/ HVAC School Podcast: https://hvacrschool.com/podcast/ 6th Annual Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/6th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/ This episode was recorded in December 2024.

In this powerful episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser bring on a truly inspiring guest, Danny Huffman, founder of Second Chance University. Danny shares the transformative mission behind his organization, which helps individuals transitioning from incarceration, substance abuse, or homelessness rebuild their lives through HVAC training, life skills development, and career preparation. Danny's passion shines as he recounts his journey, from growing up on a Texas farm to creating a program that changes lives. Listeners will learn how Second Chance University's intensive six-week program provides participants not only with technical expertise but also the mental tools and confidence needed to succeed in life and work. With partnerships from organizations like TruTech Tools, CareerSource, and others, Danny emphasizes the importance of doing the right thing and fostering community safety and success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in workforce development, second chances, or the transformative power of education and mentorship. Here is Danny's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyhuffman/ And a link to his website: https://2ndchanceuniversity.org/ And his email: dhuffman@2ndChanceUniversity.org This episode was recorded in December 2024.

In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Ross Trethewey, a mechanical engineer, consultant, and building science advocate who also appears on This Old House. Ross shares his journey from being a fifth-generation plumber to becoming a professional engineer with a passion for high-performance buildings. He discusses the critical interplay between building systems and science, highlighting his work in residential and commercial design through his firm, TE2 Engineering. He also delves into his unique projects, including a World War I lookout tower retrofit, which underscores the importance of holistic building assessments. The conversation transitions into the challenges of translating the wealth of building science knowledge into practical applications. Ross emphasizes the need for a structured approach, like checklists or decision trees, to guide professionals through complex building scenarios. He praises initiatives like Better HVAC, which aim to centralize resources for the industry. Finally, Ross explores the importance of mentorship, shared resources, and ongoing learning, advocating for tools like ACCA Manual J, the Passive House Planning Package to prioritize impactful changes in building performance. Ross' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosstrethewey/ Ross' Engineering business:http://www.te2engineering.com/ This Old House on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thisoldhouse Passive House Planning Package: https://passivehouse.com/04_phpp/04_phpp.htm Our episode with Adam from Heat Geeks: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep176-empowering-engineers-the-heatgeek-approach-to-high-efficiency-heating-with-adam-chapman-july/ Building Science Corporation classes and events: https://buildingscience.com/upcoming-events-and-training Coffee and Caleffi webinars: https://www.caleffi.com/en-us/education/coffee-caleffitm Enrico Bonilauri's Emu hands on classes: https://emupassive.com/training/ Pretty Good House Concepts: https://www.prettygoodhouse.org/ Pretty Good House Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Good-House-Michael-Maines/dp/1641551658 Our episode on Pretty Good House: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep105-whats-a-pretty-good-house-with-dan-kolbert-and-chris-briley-dec-2022/ Allison Bailes' book: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html BetterHVAC website: www.BetterHVAC.org Our episode with Shawna Henderson of BlueHouse Energy: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep147-building-science-haiku-with-shawna-henderson-november-2023/ HVACR School Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/6th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/ Rocky Mountain Institute Green Upgrade Calculator: https://greenup.rmi.org/ The National Institute of Building Sciences: Whole Building Design guide: https://www.wbdg.org/whole-building-design Residential Energy Book by John Kirgger, 7th edition (530 pages):: https://srmi.biz/product/residential-energy/ Residential Energy Book by Krigger & Dorsi, 2004 edition (320 pages):: https://www.amazon.com/Residential-Energy-Savings-Existing-Buildings/dp/1880120127 This episode was recorded in December 2024.

In this engaging Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Dr. Allison Bailes, a renowned building science expert, to discuss his ongoing home remodeling journey. Allison shares his firsthand experiences of retrofitting a 1960s ranch home in Georgia, uncovering challenges, lessons, and unexpected discoveries along the way. Allison dives deep into the realities of balancing technical expertise with practical decision-making, from asbestos abatement to air sealing, insulation, and innovative systems like Zehnder ERVs. He highlights the importance of communication with contractors, dynamic environmental factors like radon and air leakage, and the challenges of maintaining performance in existing homes. Throughout the episode, listeners gain invaluable insights into the intersection of building science, project management, and homeowner expectations. Whether you're an HVAC professional, a homeowner, or simply curious about building science, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge wrapped in relatable anecdotes and humor. Learn more about his business at www.energyVanguard.com and subscribe to his emails. Here is his LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonabailes/ We sell his book at TruTech: https://trutechtools.com/hardcover-a-house-needs-to-breathe-or-does-it.html This episode was recorded in December 2024.

In this episode, Bill Spohn reviews the 52 episodes of the Building HVAC Science Podcast. published in 2024. EP# Published Topic Guest(s) 147 1-5-24 Building science hiaku with Shawna Henderson Shawna Henderson 148 1-12-24 Trade Secrets Revealed- Inside Classset, the Platform Building a Blue-Collar Boom with Cooper Newby Cooper Newby 149 1-19-24 More Than Just Fixing Furnaces: Why NCI is the Heartbeat of the HVAC Industry with Dominick Guarino Dom Guarino 150 1-26-24 Filtering the Future - The Journey of John Ellis in Reinventing Air Quality John Ellis 151 2-2-24 From Ice to Inspiration-Highlights at the AHR Expo .docx ELK and Bill 152 2-9-24 Ralph Wolf's HVAC Odyssey Lessons, Laughs, and Legacies Ralph Wolf 153 2-16-24 HVACR Horizons: From 12-Year-Old Prodigies to Industry Pioneers ELK and Bill 154 2-23-24 Closing the Gap AeroSeal's Quest for Net-Zero Buildings Amit Gupta 155 3-1-24 Sustainable Spaces: The Journey from Efficiency to Humanity in Design Lucas Johnson & Austin 156 3-8-24 Inside the Toolbox- Rethinking HVAC with a High-End Twist With Chris Wisniewski Chris Wisniewski 157 3-15-24 Heat Pumps, Homes, and High Tech Amply Energy's HVAC Evolution Ed Fitz, Eric Smith 158 3-22-24 Comfort, Co-ops, and Climate Care Revolutionizing HVAC in Ontario with Victor Hyman Victor Hyman 159 3-29-24 Blueprints to Bytes How Russ King is Redefining HVAC with Technology Russ King 160 4-5-24 From Recovery to Revolution The Jason Julian HVAC Journey with Jason Julian Jason Julian 161 4-12-24 Connecting the Dots HVAC Excellence Conference Highlights and Industry Evolution witj Josh Crawley & Casey Prater.docx ELK, Josh, Casey 162 4-19-24 Inside HVAC: Wes Davis on Codes, Standards, and Shaping the Future at ACCA 2024 Wes Davis 163 4-26-24 Lies, Damn Lies and Manometer Readings Jesse Smith 164 5-3-24 Behind the Scenes at ACCA 2024: A Dialogue with Ed Janowiak Ed Janowiak 165 5-10-24 Blueprints for Efficiency: Enrico Bonilauri's Deep Dive into Building Standards Enrico Bonilauri 166 5-17-24 Simplifying Home Electrification: Insights from Zero Homes' Grant Gunnison Grant Gunnison 167 5-24-24 Tech Meets Trades Wyatt Smith's Mission to Modernize Workforce Productivity Wyatt Smith 168 5-31-24 Unveiling HVAC Mastery A Journey of Skill and Passion Matt Akins 169 6-7-24 From Attics to Airwaves Tony Mormino's HVAC Journey Tony Mormino 170 6-14-24 How to Grow and Scale a Business from the Ground Up Tommy Mello Tommy Mello 171 6-21-24 Random updates from Bill Bill Spohn 172 6-28-24 Tech Trends and HVAC Triumphs: A Denver Summit Recap ELK & Bill 173 7-5-24 Harnessing AI for Healthier Buildings: Insights with Attune's Co-Founder Julien Stamatakis Julien Stamatakis 174 7-12-24 Smart Homes, Smarter Trades: Dan Goodman Discusses Building 36's Innovations Dan Goodman, 175 7-19-24 From Engineering to Sales: Karine LeBlanc on Building Connections in HVAC Karine Leblanc 176 7-26-24 Empowering Engineers: The HeatGeek Approach to High-Efficiency Heating Adam Chapman 177 8-2-24 Smart Tools, Smarter Tech: Jim Bergmann's MeasureQuick Evolution Jim Bergmann 178 8-9-24 From Gopher to Guru: Steven Rardon's HVAC Journey Stephen Rardon 179 8-16-24 The Science of Hot Water: Insights and Innovations with Gary Klein Gary Klein 180 8-23-24 Home Monitoring Madness: Tracking Energy, Air, and More with Bill and ELK ELK & Bill 181 8-30-24 From Drawings to Durability: Inside the Minds of Building Science Experts ELK & Bill 182 9-6-24 Transforming Homes and Training Minds: The Brynn Cooksey Approach Brynn Cooksey 183 9-13-24 Reinventing Wind Power: Inside the World of Harmony Turbines Chris & Cheryl Moore 184 9-20-24 Cracking the Code: Mastering HVAC Design with Manual S Russ King 185 9-27-24 Building Better Homes: Bridging the Gap Between Energy Ratings and HVAC Steve Byers 186 10-4-24 Unlocking Trades: The Power of Skillcat's Mobile Training Ruchir Shah 187 10-11-24 Revolutionizing Home Comfort: Marco Radocaj's Balanced Approach to HVAC Marco Radocaj 188 10-18-24 Young HVAC Prodigy: Elena Day's Journey to EPA Certification at 12 Elana and Jordan Day 189 10-25-24 Breaking the Cycle: Huff's Journey to HVAC Excellence and Industry Change Tom Hoffmaster 190 11-1-24 Breathing Easy: Tackling Outdoor Contaminants in Indoor Spaces Linda Wigington, Rhett Major, Bill Collinge 191 11-8-24 From Building Automation to Smart Homes: The Lumen Cache Revolution Derek Cowburn 192 11-15-24 Building a Legacy: Energy Efficiency and Innovation with Mark Kaiser Mark Kaiser 193 11-22-24 Building Performance with Purpose: Silas Hoeppner's Journey Silas Hoeppner 194 11-29-24 Behind the Scenes at TruTech Tools: Meet Greg Bokan Greg Bokan 195 12-6-24 Farming Ideas vs. Farming The Land: Reflections from Another Continent Bill Spohn 196 12-13-24 EP196 Bill's review of 2024's podcasts BILL Spohn 197 12-20-24 His remodelling work Allison Bailes 198 12-27-24 Using knowledge we have in the real world Ross Trethewey This episode was recorded in December 2024.