Hvac Know It All Podcast

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie wraps up his chat with Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR, Business Development Manager, Sales Manager - Americas, Global Trainer, at Sauermann Group, about Combustion Analysis and why proper testing is critical for safe and efficient equipment operation. Tyler explains how to correctly use a Combustion Analyzer, the importance of testing at light off, steady state, and shutdown, and why commissioning should always be done. They discuss stack temperature, efficiency readings, manifold pressure adjustments, and how measured data helps technicians make better decisions and communicate clearly with customers. The episode highlights the value of understanding the why behind the readings and using data to improve performance and accountability in the field. Gary and Tyler discuss combustion analysis and why proper testing is essential for safe and efficient system operation. They talk about using a combustion analyzer the right way, including finding the

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero talk with Jason Julian, Small Business Owner at Julian Heat & Air, President at J.G.Wholesale LLC and VP of Operations at Affordable Air McCallum LLC. Jason Julian shares his personal and professional journey from a difficult period of addiction recovery to becoming a successful HVAC business owner. His story highlights the power of perseverance, hard work, and the ability to turn adversity into opportunity. Jason Julian also offers practical advice for technicians looking to transition into business ownership and shares insights on building a positive work culture, navigating local competition, and the lessons learned from his experiences in the HVAC industry. Whether you're an aspiring business owner or just interested in the HVAC world, Jason's story is a must-listen.   Expect to Learn Jason's journey into HVAC after a period of recovery from addiction How he transitioned from a

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR, Business Development Manager, Sales Manager - Americas, Global Trainer, at Sauermann Group, about his new book, Combustion Analysis: The Essentials, and the Fundamentals of Combustion Testing. Tyler explains how technicians can better understand oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, excess air, and efficiency readings, and how to use those numbers to diagnose and adjust systems properly. The conversation covers light off, steady state, and high fire conditions, fuel selection in combustion analyzers, and how proper adjustments can improve system performance and save money. Gary and Tyler also discuss why combustion testing is a thinking person's skill and how using the right data can help technicians work smarter and deliver better results for their customers. In this conversation, Tyler talks about the core basics of combustion and why understanding the numbers is key to proper diagnostics. He expla

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, Host Gary McCreadie talks with Josh Zolin, CEO of Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc), Founder of Blue Is The New White, and Director Board of Directors in CFESA, about leadership, accountability, and building a strong culture in the trades. They discuss the difference between being nice and being kind, and how leaders can have hard conversations while still showing care and respect, in Part 2. Josh shares his approach to handling poor behavior, setting clear expectations, and knowing when to let someone go. Gary and Josh also explore flexibility, leverage, motivation, and why increasing your value through soft skills can create more opportunities. The episode highlights how strong leadership is built on communication, honesty, and the smart use of soft skills. Gary and Josh discuss leadership in the trades and how to handle tough situations with employees. They talk about the difference between being nice and being kind, and why hard conversations should be clear,

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero talk with Robyn Hass, Founder and Fractional CFO of Mainstreet MEP™ by HVAC Office Solutions and Trade Finance in Ten Podcast, and Fractional MEP CFO/CHRO, FP&A and Change Management Consultant of Robyn Hass Consulting. Robyn shares her insights on managing overhead, scaling efficiently in a service business, and the importance of systems and processes in supporting growth without unnecessary expansion. Whether you're a solo operator or scaling a team, Robyn provides practical advice on reducing operational inefficiencies, improving field-to-office communication, and ensuring good financial practices.   Expect to Learn: -Strategies to control overhead as a business grows - The importance of lean processes and how to cut unnecessary complexity - Best practices for ensuring technicians stay accountable and contribute to accurate data collection - How to use data to gain insights into your

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Josh Zolin, CEO of Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc), Founder of Blue Is The New White, and Director Board of Directors in CFESA, to talk about the power of soft skills in the trades. Josh explains why communication, body language, and first impressions matter more than appearance alone. The conversation explores how business owners can build strong team culture, coach technicians the right way, and create an environment where people feel useful and valued. Gary and Josh also discuss balancing compassion and honesty in leadership, giving clear feedback, and helping technicians stay motivated and connected to their work. In this conversation, Josh talks about why soft skills are the difference between good and great in the HVAC industry. He explains how first words, body language, and attitude often matter more than clothing or appearance. Josh and Gary discuss the importance of challenging personal bias, giving honest but respectf

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Jason Walker, National Trainer at HVAC Masters of the Hustle. They discuss entrepreneurship, content creation, and the mindset behind building a brand in the trades. Jason shares how he earned his nickname through sales success and explains the lessons he learned from outsourcing installs and taking on too many podcast sponsors. Gary and Jason also talk about the freedom of business ownership, the challenges of starting out on your own, and the power of creating consistent content to grow your name and opportunities in the HVAC industry. Gary and Jason talk about building a name in the HVAC industry through hard work, business ownership, and content creation. Jason explains how he earned the nickname J Dub Moneymaker and how it shaped his brand, even when facing criticism. They discuss the freedom and stress that come with running your own company, including lessons Jason learned from outsourcing installs and taking on too many po

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero talk with Robyn Hass, Founder and Fractional CFO of Mainstreet MEP™ by HVAC Office Solutions and Trade Finance in Ten Podcast, and Fractional MEP CFO/CHRO, FP&A and Change Management Consultant of Robyn Hass Consulting. Robyn shares her journey of building Core Mechanical, a company that successfully scaled and was eventually sold to private equity. She discusses the importance of focus in business, financial systems, and the strategies behind scaling operations, particularly for those starting small in the HVAC industry. She offers invaluable insights on niche selection, managing overhead, and the systems and tools that were crucial for her company's success. Robyn also talks about how to support solo business owners and the challenges they face in managing their businesses effectively.    Expect to Learn: - Why focus is key when scaling your business and how choosing a niche helped Rob

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Jason Walker, National Trainer at HVAC Masters of the Hustle. Jason shares his approach to sales in the HVAC industry, focusing on building trust, using data to present solutions, and creating strong relationships with customers. The conversation covers the importance of culture within a company, supporting technicians in the field, and delivering white-glove service to stand out in a competitive market. Gary and Jason also discuss the challenges of running a one-man business, knowing when to grow, and how mindset plays a key role in long-term success. In this conversation, Jason talks about building trust in HVAC sales by using clear data and strong relationships instead of being pushy. He explains why technicians should present findings step by step to avoid overwhelming customers and how open-ended questions lead to better results. Jason and Gary discuss the challenges of running a one-man business and knowing when growth mak

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with John Anderson, Senior Regional HVAC Technical Trainer at Sila Services and former Service Manager and Technician at Burns & McBride Home Comfort. They discuss the shift away from using manifold gauge sets in favor of digital probes and low loss fittings. John explains how modern tools can reduce system contamination, improve accuracy, and speed up processes like charging and evacuation. The conversation also explores the benefits of apps like MeasureQuick for diagnostics and training. Gary and John highlight how smart tools and good habits lead to better HVAC service and fewer callbacks. Gary and John talk about working without manifold gauge sets and how using digital probes can make HVAC work faster, safer, and more accurate. John shares how most residential jobs can be done without a manifold and explains why probes, low loss fittings, and proper charging tools are more efficient. They discuss best practices for recovery, e

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero discuss the essential but often overlooked side of running an HVAC business's financials with  April Sackfield, Director of Operations at NumberConstruct and Fiscal Management Group, who brings a wealth of knowledge on business finance and systems tailored for service-based companies. The focus is on empowering technicians and small business owners with the tools and understanding they need to successfully transition from the field into entrepreneurship. April supports HVAC business owners in optimizing their operations for profitability and growth. Her practical advice is drawn from real-world experiences and deep industry insight.   Expect to Learn - How aspiring HVAC business owners can prepare financially before launching their company. - The pros and cons of "rage quitting" versus planned business exits. - The importance of field service management (FSM) software and how it supports a

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by John Anderson, Senior Regional HVAC Technical Trainer at Sila Services, Formerly Service Manager and Technician at Burns & McBride Home Comfort. John shares his insights on using analog and digital manifold gauges, discussing their pros, cons, and practical use in the field. The conversation covers the shift from analog to digital tools, the value of maintaining equipment instead of replacing it, and the importance of proper airflow diagnosis before adding refrigerant. Gary and John also talk about technician habits, training methods, and how using long hoses can lead to refrigerant loss over time. In this conversation, John talks about the use of analog and digital manifold gauges in HVAC work. He explains how analog tools helped early in his career and why digital tools now offer faster and more accurate results. John and Gary discuss why learning airflow checks should come before using gauges and how poor airflow can lead

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero discuss one of the most essential components of running an HVAC business: the financials.April Sackfield, Director of Operations at NumberConstruct and Fiscal Management Group, dig into the fundamentals of accounting, job costing, margins, and profitability. This episode is especially valuable for small business owners, new HVAC entrepreneurs, and technicians considering going independent. With a background in marketing, tax, and audit, April brings a rare blend of strategic insight and real-world financial know-how, especially when it comes to helping mom-and-pop operations become sustainably profitable.   Expect to Learn - Why over 50% of home service businesses aren't profitable, and how to avoid that trap - The difference between gross and net profit, and why both matter - How to properly price a service using margin-based formulas - What job costing really is and how to start tracking i

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his discussion with John Davidson, Regional Trainer at Fujitsu General America, Inc. They discuss inverter-driven heat pump systems, emphasizing the benefits of maintaining consistent temperatures and proper system sizing. John shares best practices for installation, including flaring techniques, pressure testing, and vacuum procedures. The conversation also covers the importance of voltage monitoring, surge protection, and using the right tools like torque wrenches and micron gauges. Together, they highlight how attention to detail helps improve system performance and reliability. Gary and John talk about how inverter-driven heat pumps help keep homes comfortable and save energy. John explains why steady heating is better than deep setbacks and how proper sizing avoids overworking the system. They cover key installation tips like using nitrogen when brazing, getting flare connections right, and pressure testing to avoid

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with John Davidson, Regional Trainer at Fujitsu General America, Inc. John explains how heat pumps work in cold climates by using refrigerant technology to move heat from outside to inside. He discusses the role of coil temperature, pressure, and energy transfer in the heating process. The episode also covers inverter technology, the importance of base pan heaters, and how matched air handlers improve system efficiency. John shares tips for choosing between dual-fuel and all-electric setups based on cost, climate, and home design. In this conversation, John explains how heat pumps use refrigerant and pressure changes to move heat in cold weather. He gives clear examples to help listeners understand how coils absorb energy even in freezing temperatures. John also talks about the role of inverter compressors in matching indoor heating needs and how newer models improve low-temperature performance. He highlights the importance of base pan

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero discuss the business side of HVAC with veteran technician and entrepreneur Greg Crumpton, the Vice President of Service Logic. Greg is an expert in mission-critical environments like data centers and hospitals. Greg shares his vast knowledge of the HVAC business, covering everything from financials and profit margins to building a solid team and breaking into specialized markets like liquid cooling.   Expect to Learn: - How to calculate and interpret key financial metrics like EBITDA and Net Profit for HVAC businesses. - The importance of team culture and how to build a solid team in an HVAC business. - Key strategies for moving from working "in" the business to working "on" the business as an owner. - How to break into mission-critical work, including data centers and liquid cooling systems. - Tips for retaining top employees and building a culture of excellence within your company.   Episo

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Chris Howells, Senior Training and Development Manager at AprilAire. They discuss briefly about humidification, comparing steam and evaporative humidifiers, and explaining how to properly size and install them. Chris shares tips on using absorption distance to avoid condensation and highlights the role of dew point in home comfort. The episode also covers the health, comfort, and structural benefits of balanced humidity and encourages HVAC professionals to learn more about building science to better serve their customers. Gary and Chris talk about how the right humidifier setup improves comfort and protects homes. Chris explains how to choose between steam and evaporative systems based on home size, air volume, and building tightness. They go over why absorption distance matters and how to avoid moisture problems in ductwork. Chris shares tips on using dew point to guide humidity levels and highlight

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes discuss the business side of HVAC with veteran technician and entrepreneur Greg Crumpton, the Vice President of Service Logic. Having built and sold his own HVAC business, Greg shares invaluable advice for technicians considering the leap into business ownership. Starting as a technician, he rose through the ranks to service manager, general manager, and eventually founded and sold his own HVAC company. This episode focuses on financial literacy, cash flow management, invoicing, and the crucial mindset shifts needed for success as a contractor-turned-owner.    Expect to Learn:  - Why understanding finances is the cornerstone of starting an HVAC business.  - How to price your services correctly and avoid undercharging.  - The importance of cash flow, invoicing terms, and collection strategies.  - Common mistakes new business owners make - and how to avoid them.  - How automation and process improvements

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Chris Howells, Senior Training and Development Manager at AprilAire. Chris shares insights on new humidification technology from AprilAire, including fan-powered and bypass humidifiers that reduce water waste. He explains how the HydroCore assembly improves efficiency and maintenance while addressing common concerns like microbial growth. The discussion covers the impact of modern HVAC systems on humidification and how to choose between fan-powered and bypass models. Chris also talks about steam humidifiers and how water quality affects their performance. In this conversation, Chris explains how the HydroCore assembly improves efficiency and reduces maintenance in modern humidifiers. He shares insights on adapting to changes in HVAC systems, like heat pumps and lower airflow, and discusses how these factors influence the choice between fan-powered and bypass models. Chris also addresses common concerns about mold, outlines proper

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Sal Randisi, Vice President of Business Development at Kano Labs - Makers of Kroil and Super Lube. They discuss the role of lubricants in HVAC maintenance, from penetrating oils like Kroil to dielectric greases and anti-seize solutions. Sal explains the importance of using the correct viscosity based on ISO standards and shares how proper lubrication can extend equipment life. The episode also highlights the benefits of products like Kroil with graphite and the new low-odor Kroil Clear for sensitive environments. Gary and Sal talk about how the right lubricants help HVAC techs keep systems running smoothly. Sal explains why using the correct oil viscosity matters and how ISO numbers help match specs across equipment. They go over when to use products like Kroil for rusted parts and how patience makes a difference with tough bolts. Sal shares tips on using dielectric grease, anti-seize, and new low-od