HVAC School - For Techs, By Techs

By: Bryan Orr
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  • Summary

  • HVAC School is the ever growing online source for real training topics for technicians in the Air-conditioning, Heating and Ventilation Fields. In the podcast, we will share recorded training, tech ride alongs, share challenging diagnostic scenarios. All to help make the industry, your company, and your truck a better place to be.
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Career Success Economics Personal Development Personal Success
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Episodes
  • ERVs - What you need to know w/ Dr. Bailes

    ERVs - What you need to know w/ Dr. Bailes
    Apr 17 2025
    In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, host Bryan sits down with building science expert Allison Bailes to dive deep into the world of Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs). The conversation explores the critical role of ventilation in modern homes, highlighting how ERVs have become an essential component of maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Bailes breaks down the technical nuances of ERVs, explaining how these systems not only bring fresh air into a home but do so while recovering both temperature and moisture energy. The discussion goes beyond simply explaining what an ERV is, delving into the practical considerations of ventilation strategies. Bailes shares personal experiences, including challenges he faced with over-ventilation in his own home, which led to extremely dry indoor conditions. The podcast explores the complex balance of bringing outdoor air inside while managing humidity, temperature, and air quality. Listeners gain insights into why simply bringing in outdoor air isn't always the best solution, especially in climates with extreme humidity or air quality challenges. Throughout the episode, Bailes and Bryan emphasize the importance of thoughtful ventilation design. They discuss the evolution of home construction, noting how increasingly airtight buildings have made proper ventilation more crucial than ever. The conversation touches on key considerations for selecting and implementing ERVs, including motor efficiency, boost capabilities, filtration, and the impact of outdoor air conditions. The experts provide practical advice for contractors, technicians, and homeowners looking to improve their understanding of indoor air management. Key Topics Covered: The difference between Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs)Moisture transfer and vapor permeability in ventilation systemsBalanced ventilation strategies and their importanceChallenges of over-ventilation and indoor air qualityFiltration considerations for ERV systemsImpacts of outdoor air quality on home ventilationStrategies for different climate zonesThe role of ERVs in managing indoor humidity and temperature Resources Mentioned: Allison Bailes' book: "A House Needs to Breathe... Or Does It?"Upcoming online ventilation course from Energy Vanguard (expected May 2025)Energy Vanguard website: energyvanguard.com Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android
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    41 mins
  • Multiple Surge Protectors - Short #236

    Multiple Surge Protectors - Short #236
    Apr 15 2025

    In this short podcast episode, Bryan answers a listener-submitted question asking whether you can use another surge protector at the disconnect panel with an ICM 493 already in place.

    Using multiple surge protectors in the configuration described does NOT count as daisy-chaining. Surge protectors with MOVs (metal oxide varistors) shunt current from high voltage to ground by reducing their resistance. MOVs are sacrificial, so they wear out over time. Surge protectors don't last forever, so installing multiple is a fine idea.

    You can have whole-home surge protection with additional surge protectors positioned at the appliances/electronics. While it can be done and doesn't hurt anything, it's not the most cost-effective solution.

    When you install a surge protector, wire it in parallel with the circuit to ground. It should be wired properly with the shortest possible path to ground. In any case, many surge protectors won't hold up against direct lightning strikes, but they will protect the equipment from power surges after power comes back on or constant overvoltage.

    Our company, Kalos Services, now uses DITEK's Kool Guard 2 as our surge protector and voltage monitor of choice. They also provide warranties for their products, which have come in handy for customers.

    Learn more about the DITEK Kool Guard 2 at https://www.diteksurgeprotection.com/product-series/intelligent-voltage-monitoring/.

    Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

    Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium.

    Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android.

    Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

    Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android
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    5 mins
  • The Cornerstones of Inverter Equipment Commissioning

    The Cornerstones of Inverter Equipment Commissioning
    Apr 10 2025
    In this podcast episode, HVAC professionals Chris Hughes and Adam Mufich discuss the intricate challenges technicians face when commissioning modern inverter-based heating and cooling systems. Unlike traditional single-stage or two-stage HVAC equipment, inverter systems introduce a new level of complexity that can leave even experienced technicians feeling uncertain about proper installation and startup procedures. The presentation highlights a fundamental shift in how HVAC systems operate, moving from straightforward single-stage systems to sophisticated inverter-based technologies that modulate compressor, fan, and refrigerant flow dynamically. This technological evolution creates significant challenges for technicians, who previously could rely on simple, consistent commissioning processes. The speakers emphasize that modern inverter systems require a much more nuanced approach, with specific temperature ranges, wait times, and verification methods that are not always clearly documented in manufacturer manuals. Recognizing the industry-wide need for clarity, Chris and Adam have developed a comprehensive spreadsheet resource that consolidates commissioning information across multiple HVAC brands. Their goal is to empower technicians by providing accessible, standardized guidance for working with these complex systems. By sharing their research and encouraging collaboration, they aim to address what they see as a critical gap in manufacturer support and technical documentation. The podcast serves as both an educational resource and a call to action for HVAC professionals and manufacturers alike. Chris and Adam argue that the industry needs more transparency, better documentation, and a collective effort to standardize inverter system commissioning practices. Their work represents a significant step towards demystifying these advanced HVAC technologies and ensuring that technicians can confidently and effectively install and service modern heating and cooling equipment. Key Topics Covered: Differences between single-stage, two-stage, and inverter HVAC systemsCommissioning challenges with modern inverter technologiesCritical factors in proper system startup, including: Outdoor and indoor temperature requirementsWait times for system stabilizationRefrigerant charging methodsAirflow measurement and verification The importance of precise refrigerant charging (superheat and subcooling)Challenges with manufacturer documentation and technical supportThe need for standardized commissioning procedures across HVAC brandsStrategies for verifying system performance during commissioningThe speakers' collaborative effort to create a comprehensive inverter system commissioning guide Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android
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    47 mins
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Profile Image for Andy

Relevant Topics

valuable information for techs by techs right on. Perfect title for Podcast. Looking forward to applying for the scholarship. I'm interested in the apprenticeship and learning the trade.

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Really good!

I've listened to a few other hvac podcasts lately and they are painful. This one is actually really really good.

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Informative & Enjoyable

The podcasters are easy to listen to, not hard on the ears. The HVAC & related material are always informative & applicable. I appreciate these audios.

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Profile Image for Dylan L Villano

amazing HVACR podcast

Bryan Orr is a great instructor. He is very knowledgeable. He has experts from various parts of the industry as guests. He goes above and beyond to give back to the HVACR industry. he has helped me to become a better technician. so grateful for the content he provides.

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Thank you.

I’m new to the trade and love the way you explain it.
Thank you so much.

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Profile Image for Lukasz Koplejewski

Great educational speakers and great industry information.

Great educational speakers and great industry information. Would highly recommend to anyone in HVAC industry. Also has great plugs for great industry tech.

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