EP211 Data Integrity in HVAC: Why It Matters More Than You Think with Rachel Kaiser (February 2025)

Building HVAC Science

#Buildingperformance #Buildingscience #Energyrating #Energy #Business #Industries #Physics #Science #Natural Sciences #Podcasting Education #Bill Spohn

32:48

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is back for its second season! Kay Adams welcomes the women who assemble the squad, Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell, to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of putting together the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Judy and Kelli open up about what it means to embrace flaws in the pursuit of perfection, how they identify that winning combo of stamina and wow factor, and what it’s like to see Thunderstruck go viral. Plus, the duo shares their hopes for the future of DCC beyond the field. Netflix Sports Club Podcast Correspondent Dani Klupenger also stops by to discuss the NBA Finals, basketball’s biggest moments with Michael Jordan and LeBron, and Kevin Durant’s international dominance. Dani and Kay detail the rise of Coco Gauff’s greatness and the most exciting storylines heading into Wimbledon. We want to hear from you! Leave us a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/NetflixSportsClub Find more from the Netflix Sports Club Podcast @NetflixSports on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X. You can catch Kay Adams @heykayadams and Dani Klupenger @daniklup on IG and X. Be sure to follow Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammel @kellifinglass and @dcc_judy on IG. Hosted by Kay Adams, the Netflix Sports Club Podcast is an all-access deep dive into the Netflix Sports universe! Each episode, Adams will speak with athletes, coaches, and a rotating cycle of familiar sports correspondents to talk about a recently released Netflix Sports series. The podcast will feature hot takes, deep analysis, games, and intimate conversations. Be sure to watch, listen, and subscribe to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Tudum, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes on Fridays every other week.…

about a year ago 41:15

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill and Eric welcome Rachel Kaiser to discuss an often-overlooked yet critical topic: data integrity in HVAC and building performance. Rachel, who has a background in scientific research and data quality, shares insights into how the HVAC industry generates and manages data, why data integrity matters, and the risks of poor data management.

They explore real-world examples—from technicians misreporting measurements to the challenges of maintaining reliable combustion data—and discuss how digital tools can both help and hinder data integrity. Rachel breaks down key principles of data integrity using the ALCOA+ framework, which ensures data is attributable, legible, contemporaneous, original, and accurate, along with being complete, consistent, enduring, and available.

The conversation touches on how connected tools, data logging, and digital advancements are reshaping HVAC, making accurate data more accessible while also increasing the need for awareness and best practices. If you've ever questioned how reliable your measurements are—or how much you can trust the data you work with—this episode is a must-listen!

Rachel on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-kaiser-416020288/

This episode was recorded in February 2025.

226 episodes

Building HVAC Science

EP211 Data Integrity in HVAC: Why It Matters More Than You Think with Rachel Kaiser (February 2025)

Building HVAC Science

64 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Rachel on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-kaiser-416020288/

This episode was recorded in February 2025.

226 episodes

#Buildingperformance #Buildingscience #Energyrating #Energy #Business #Industries #Physics #Science #Natural Sciences #Podcasting Education #Bill Spohn

All episodes

Building HVAC Science

1
EP226 Three Miracles and a Heat Pump: Fixing Retrofit Policy from the Ground Up with Abhi Katamneni & Nate Adams (June 2025) 57:09

6 days ago57:09

57:09

In this insightful episode, Bill and Eric are joined by Abhi Katamneni from Efficiency Canada and Nate Adams, also known as the House Whisperer, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of home performance, policy, and how HVAC contractors can play a central role in the electrification and decarbonization of housing. Abhi shares lessons from his ride-alongs with contractors across North America, emphasizing how real-world experience shapes policy that actually works. Nate dives into his shift toward consumer education and the systemic problems he’s observed in program design and incentives. Together, they unpack how well-meaning policies can backfire when they disrupt the natural rhythm of contracting businesses—highlighting the urgent need for smarter, more contractor-centric approaches. They discuss “boundary spanners,” the unintended consequences of top-down mandates, and why the HVAC service truck is ground zero for climate solutions. Both guests call for immersion, experimentation, and communities of practice to move from boutique success stories to scalable change. Some quotes from the Episode: “The brain can’t absorb what your butt can’t endure.” – Abhi “If you’re not building something shovel-ready for contractors, what are you even doing?” – Abhi “A heat pump isn’t just green—it’s better. More comfort, less noise, fewer regrets.” – Nate Nate’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natethehousewhisperer/ Abhi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akantamn/ Boundary Spanners podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1OunercMNOjZ3poROcI5Z4 Nate’s website where you get free downloads or the book: https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/ ACEEE: https://www.aceee.org/ Efficiency Canada: https://www.efficiencycanada.org/ This episode was recorded in June 2025.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP225 Beyond the Image: Lessons in Humility and Heat Transfer with Matt Schwoegler (June 2025) 35:21

13 days ago35:21

35:21

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP224 Beyond Vapor Compression: Smarter DOAS with Liquid Desiccants with Phil Farese (June 2025) 40:36

20 days ago40:36

40:36

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP223 AI Without the Hype: Real-World Automation with Tersh Blissett (June 2025) 40:21

27 days ago40:21

40:21

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP222 Airflow, Action, and Ideas: Brent Davidson’s Mission to Elevate Heat Pump Pros (June 2025) 33:19

5 weeks ago33:19

33:19

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP221 Consultative Selling Meets Smart Software in Home Performance with Amanda Godward (May 2025) 33:51

6 weeks ago33:51

33:51

“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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP220 Just Keep Learning: The HVAC Journey of Dirk Nauman (May 2025) 37:44

7 weeks ago37:44

37:44

“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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP219 Thermentor: Rethinking Load Calcs with Real Energy Data with Max Reichlin (May 2025) 31:41

8 weeks ago31:41

31:41

“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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP218 Breaking Down Silos: The Path to Better Retrofit Training with Ben Hildebrandt (May 2025) 49:01

9 weeks ago49:01

49:01

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP217 Where Building Science Meets HVAC: Insights from New Orleans (April 2025) 21:40

10 weeks ago21:40

21:40

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP216 Built to Last: How JB Industries Keeps It Made in America (April 2025) 40:12

11 weeks ago40:12

40:12

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.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP215 Mindset, Metrics & Mastery: Anthony Woo’s HVAC Game Plan (March 2025) 40:47

12 weeks ago40:47

40:47

“How much pain they have cost us, the evils which never happened.” —Thomas Jefferson In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Anthony Woo, an HVAC contractor from Quebec, Canada. Anthony shares his journey from dropping out of college to becoming a successful business owner specializing in heat pump installations in one of North America's coldest climates. He discusses his personal and professional evolution, from gaining confidence through a Tony Robbins seminar to implementing systems like EOS in his rapidly growing business. Anthony also highlights the power of data-driven decisions, the importance of networking through NCI, and his passion for educating homeowners about indoor air quality and comfort. Throughout the conversation, Anthony gives us a peek into his strategic approach to business growth, emphasizing sustainable scaling, reinvesting in his team, and leveraging modern tools like the TrueFlow Grid for diagnostics. He also talks about creating a strong personal brand and reputation that fueled his success primarily through word-of-mouth marketing. This episode offers actionable insights for HVAC professionals looking to elevate their craft, implement smart business practices, and lead with purpose. Some thought nuggets from Anthony: “Podcasts are like a university on wheels for learning.” “As I learn new things, I’m conscious of making sure my colleagues have the framework to understand what I am talking about.” “I apply filtration to ideas to decide what to implement.” Finally, Anthony offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: set your goals, make a plan, and go after what you want—without fear. After we finished recording, ELK helped summarize: “You’ve said you don't know how to run a business. What you are really saying is you are not running a business the way others do or advise you to do, you are running your business on your own terms.” Anthony’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-woo-88a77466/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ClimatisationACG Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/anthonywoohvac/reels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/climatisationacg/ This episode was recorded in March 2025.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP214 Why Small HVAC Companies Get Stuck—and How WorkHero Helps Them Grow with Furman Haynes (March 2025) 34:21

13 weeks ago34:21

34:21

“You can be high quality and effective, but also efficient at the same time.” — Furman Haynes, Founder of WorkHero In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn sit down with Furman Haynes, co-founder of WorkHero, to explore a critical challenge facing small HVAC business owners: the administrative burden that stifles growth. Furman shares his journey into the HVAC industry, inspired by a passion for building organizations that support small business success. He recounts his eye-opening experiences at industry events and his realization that paperwork and administrative tasks often overwhelm small operators. Furman explains how WorkHero was designed to provide expert office management for companies with under ten employees—helping them streamline operations without adding complex software. Through a combination of dedicated virtual office managers and AI-powered tools, WorkHero tackles the paperwork bottlenecks that can prevent growth. Furman also discusses insights from their recent industry survey, revealing that small businesses spend over 15 hours a week on admin work and often get stuck at the $1-2 million revenue mark without making strategic investments in people or systems. The conversation wraps up with Furman’s take on the importance of mindset shifts for owner-operators, the role of data in improving pricing strategies, and the need for a supportive community like www.BetterHVAC.org to ensure quality-focused businesses can remain profitable and thrive. Furman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/ His email: furman@workhero.pro Work Hero Website: https://www.workhero.pro/ Link to the Survey Results: https://www.workhero.pro/blog/report There are many reports out there, but none of them look specifically at the day-to-day realities of running your own small business. ‍ That's why WorkHero partnered with HVAC School to survey over 1,300 industry professionals. This Industry Pulse report examines: The state of the industry - from company sizes to revenue patterns How contractors balance technical work with business operations Why owners often hit a growth ceiling around $1-2M in revenue Which tools and technologies companies are adopting What successful companies are doing differently Drawing from real data across the country, we provide insights about managing growth, freeing up owner time, and dealing with the technician shortage. The findings reveal both challenges and opportunities for contractors of all sizes. This episode was recorded in March 2025.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP213 Revolutionizing HVAC: How Pearl Edison Bridges Homeowners and Contractors with Jake Yurek (February 2025) 30:23

14 weeks ago30:23

30:23

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser interview Jake Yurek, the co-founder of Pearl Edison, a platform designed to simplify the installation of energy-efficient systems for homeowners and contractors. Jake shares the origins of the company’s name, inspired by Thomas Edison’s first power station on Pearl Street, and explains how Pearl Edison partners with trusted entities like utilities and city governments to facilitate HVAC installations. Their approach aims to reduce customer acquisition costs for contractors while improving the decision-making process for homeowners. Jake delves into the unique value proposition of Pearl Edison: acting as an intermediary that guides homeowners to the right system design before involving contractors. This approach saves contractors time and increases profitability by ensuring they engage with highly qualified leads. Pearl Edison focuses on maintaining high-quality standards by utilizing BPI-certified experts for home assessments, conducting blower door tests, and leveraging robust data analytics to provide personalized system recommendations. The conversation also explores Pearl Edison’s business model of partnering with utilities and local governments, its strategic expansion plans, and the commitment to building trust and comfort with homeowners. Jake highlights the company’s continuous messaging and technology evolution to serve contractors and enterprise partners better. He invites interested contractors to connect with Pearl Edison, emphasizing the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships as the company grows into new markets. Learn more at: https://www.pearledison.com/ Jake’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakeyurek/ This episode was recorded in February 2025.…

Building HVAC Science

1
EP212 Home Comfort Demystified: A Deep Dive with Eric George (February 2025) 33:47

15 weeks ago33:47