Building HVAC Science

Quotes from the episode: "You don't know what you don't know." "That knowledge outside of energy efficiency is key for anyone working in the built environment." "If you are engaged and want to keep learning, this is a great space to be in." Eight years after her first appearance on the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Amanda Hatherly returns in a new role: CEO of the Building Performance Institute (BPI). Amanda and Bill start by clearing up a common misconception. BPI is not a training organization. It is an ANSI-accredited standards and credentialing organization that brings industry experts together to develop standards and certifications for residential energy efficiency, home performance, weatherization, and healthy housing. Amanda shares what has changed since taking the helm at BPI, including updating standards and certifications, simplifying technical language, expanding Spanish-language materials, refreshing the website, and making the organization and its staff more visible and approachable. A major theme of the conversation is the continued convergence of HVAC, building performance, healthy homes, weatherization, and electrification. Amanda argues that understanding the house as a system shouldn't be limited to people working in traditional energy-efficiency programs. HVAC professionals can become much better problem solvers when they understand how mechanical systems interact with air sealing, insulation, moisture, ventilation, and occupant health. They also explore BPI's Healthy Housing Principles and Building Science Principles programs, workforce development efforts, contractor resources, and the growing opportunity for HVAC and home performance professionals to learn from each other. Amanda closes with a reminder that the building performance industry remains unusually collaborative and knowledge-rich . For people willing to stay curious, there is always something new to learn. And one question finally gets answered from Amanda's original 2018 appearance: Is PowerPoint really dead? Apparently not. But terrible PowerPoint probably should be. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-hatherly/ Website: https://www.bpi.org/ Contractor and Test Center Locator tool: https://www.bpi.org/pages/locator https://www.bpi.org/resources/certificates/healthy-housing-principles/ www.BetterHVAC.org https://www.bpi.org/bpi-news/newsletters/ This episode was recorded in August 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "The only way that change is going to occur is if I make it happen." "What makes a high-performance building? It's just good building sense." "It really is about: how do we get contractors to be confident in the assemblies?" Eight years ago, James Childre joined Building HVAC Science (Episode 29 ) with a somewhat resigned view of change in the construction industry: maybe better building practices would have to wait for a new generation of contractors. Today, his perspective is very different . Instead of waiting for the world to change, James is working to create that change himself. James, founder of RedPoint Montana, spends his days inspecting, testing, and diagnosing buildings. After more than two decades of seeing the same failures recur, he began looking for ways to advance building science knowledge beyond the small group of professionals already committed to high-performance construction. That effort began locally with a BS and Beer group in Bozeman and has now grown into the inaugural Cold Climate Conference, to be held October 12–14 at Montana State University. The event focuses on the real challenges of building in Climate Zones 5 through 8, including air sealing, exterior insulation, moisture control, ice dams, ventilation, HVAC distribution, and cold-climate heat pumps. James offers our listeners a 10% discount when using the code HVACBS But James and Bill dig into something deeper: why do contractors resist practices that building science professionals already know work? James argues that the issue often isn't unwillingness . Changing assemblies, materials, and processes introduces real business and warranty risk. Education therefore needs to do more than explain what works. It needs to give contractors the confidence to actually implement it. They also question whether calling something "high performance" unintentionally makes good construction sound optional, expensive, or specialized. What if airtightness, durability, proper HVAC design, water management, and commissioning simply became the baseline for good craftsmanship? Perhaps the most compelling piece of James' vision is the connection to local high school trades programs. Proceeds from the conference will help expose students to building science tools and principles early, potentially putting the next generation of tradespeople on job sites already asking better questions. The goal isn't another conference. It's lasting change in how buildings are built. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-childre-859a04202/ His business: https://www.redpointmontana.com/ James' first podcast with us: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep29-stop-waiting-on-the-world-to-change-a-conversation-with-james-childre/ Conference Websit e : https://www.coldclimateconference.com/schedule This episode was recorded in August 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "I don't need the house to breathe. I need the people to." "You can't control a system that's open." "I would just go make them comfortable. And let them know the added benefit is that they're going to spend less on energy." What happens when an HVAC contractor fixes the equipment, but the customer still isn't comfortable? In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn talks with Ken Allsion of Insulation Distributors (IDI) about why HVAC contractors are uniquely positioned to recognize—and potentially solve - problems with the building envelope. Ken argues that comfort complaints often blamed on heating and cooling equipment actually begin with uncontrolled air leakage, poorly installed insulation, and mechanical systems operating outside the thermal envelope. Ken lays out a practical path for HVAC companies interested in adding envelope work without trying to turn every technician into a building scientist. It starts simply: train technicians to recognize obvious problems such as daylight, wind-washed insulation, unsealed attic hatches, and other signs of leakage. From there, contractors can progress to blower-door testing and infrared diagnostics, and eventually tackle more sophisticated envelope improvements. A recurring theme is that insulation only performs as intended when air movement is controlled . Ken explains why nominal R-value can be misleading, how small areas of poorly performing insulation can dramatically reduce whole-assembly performance, and why he prioritizes air sealing at the top and bottom of the building before worrying about walls. The conversation also explores an important business opportunity. Ken sees attic insulation removal, air sealing, and blow-back as relatively low-barrier services that complement HVAC work while allowing specialized crews - not highly trained HVAC technicians—to perform the labor. Most importantly, Ken challenges contractors to rethink what they're really selling. Rather than leading with energy savings, start with what homeowners actually care about: comfort, healthier indoor conditions, and a house that works better . Reduced energy use becomes a valuable consequence of fixing the building—not necessarily the reason for doing it. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-allison-74528a14/ Website link: https://www.idi-insulation.com/industries/hvac IDI's podcast: https://www.idi-insulation.com/podcast/ IDI's Training Calendar: https://www.idi-insulation.com/training/ The Matt Risinger video Ken mentioned: https://youtu.be/1BcqeQJqp08?si=jVwKLJQcULbcbYbM Nate Adma's Home Comfort book mentioned: https://trutechtools.com/The-Home-Comfort-Book The Attic Queen ! : https://www.atticqueen.com/ Join their email list using the form at the bottom of every page on their website. This episode was recorded in August 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Net zero wasn't the goal—it was the outcome of making hundreds of good building science decisions." "One tiny installation mistake destroyed an entire refrigerant system. Details matter." "The biggest lesson isn't that net zero works. It's that building science works." Bill Spohn turns the microphone on himself for a candid look at what he learned by designing, building, and living in his own all-electric, net-zero home. Rather than advocating for Passive House, electrification, or solar as ends in themselves, Bill explains how those decisions emerged from a much simpler goal: creating a comfortable, healthy, quiet home that would serve his family well for decades. Drawing on years of experience in HVAC instrumentation and building science, Bill shares the real-world successes, surprises, and setbacks that came with the project. He discusses why modular construction became the right fit, how careful modeling justified a surprisingly small two-ton cold-climate heat pump for a 4,000-square-foot conditioned home, and why airtightness, continuous insulation, and thoughtful solar orientation mattered more than oversized equipment. The episode also explores the challenges that don't appear in glossy case studies. Bill recounts a cracked flare fitting that destroyed an entire heat pump refrigerant circuit, elusive zoning control issues, leaky high-performance windows, unexpected ventilation quirks, radon mitigation, drilling multiple wells over abandoned coal mines, and adapting to unforeseen site conditions. Throughout each story, measurements—not assumptions—led to the solutions. Bill explains how monitoring electrical consumption, indoor air quality, solar production, and system performance has allowed him to verify what is actually happening instead of relying on opinions. He also reflects on what he would absolutely repeat, what he would change if starting over, and why successful high-performance homes depend on hundreds of well-executed details rather than any single technology. Whether you're an HVAC contractor, building performance professional, or homeowner considering a high-performance home, this episode is a practical reminder that building science isn't about chasing trends—it's about making informed decisions that deliver comfort, durability, efficiency, and measurable results. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/ Website: www.SpohnHome.com Videos of Spohn Home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_vqJbscA-U&pp=ygUJc3B https://youtu.be/tIou30sSodM?si=QjMIGlVmIWv1h34s https://www.youtube.com/live/mct8V5esSGY?si=ArA3Iy1Z7JKRgKc1 This episode was recorded in August 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "This is no longer a push-pull industry. This is a thinking person's game now." "The better context you give AI, the better partner it becomes." "Ask AI to teach you how to use AI in your particular situation." Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming one of the most practical tools available to HVAC professionals—but only if it's used as a thinking partner rather than a shortcut. In this episode, Bill Spohn is joined by Tyler Nelson, a nationally recognized HVAC educator and combustion expert, and Billy Spohn, who leads AI initiatives at TruTech Tools, for an honest discussion about where AI is already delivering real value. Tyler explains how his background in combustion analysis naturally led him to AI, with both disciplines relying on measurements, analytics, and informed decision-making. He shares real-world examples of technicians using AI to troubleshoot equipment, communicate more effectively with customers, create personalized learning programs, and even build their own "AI universities" that accelerate technical growth. The result isn't replacing skilled technicians— it's helping them become better diagnosticians and better communicators. Billy offers the business perspective, describing how AI is transforming workflows by connecting systems that have traditionally operated independently. From generating better reports to automating repetitive tasks and acting as an always-available business advisor, he explains why providing AI with proper context is far more important than simply asking questions. The conversation also covers practical topics such as subscription costs, privacy settings, memory features, and the importance of verifying important information rather than accepting every answer at face value. Perhaps the biggest takeaway is that AI isn't eliminating the need for experience, craftsmanship, or human judgment. Instead, it frees professionals to spend more time solving problems, serving customers, and continuously improving their skills. Whether you're an HVAC technician, contractor, educator, or business owner, this episode offers practical ideas you can start applying immediately . And if you're wondering where to begin, the hosts leave listeners with one simple recommendation: ask AI to teach you how to use AI for your own work. LinkedIn: Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/ Billy : https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-spohn-jr-a06201a3/ Link to buy the book: https://tyty5.gumroad.com/l/ai-hvac-technician This episode was recorded in August 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "It's not just about features and benefits anymore. It's about the impact your products have on your customer's business." "Training teaches skills. Mentorship builds confidence." "Someone somewhere saw that we were good at something and helped us channel it." "Words matter." The HVACR industry has talked about the workforce shortage for decades—but are we finally making progress? In this episode, Bill sits down with Jane Sidebottom , President of Women in HVACR and founder of AMK, a strategic consulting firm that has helped more than 60 HVAC manufacturers grow through customer insight and product development. Jane shares how an unexpected phone call launched her career with Trane, why she eventually founded her own consulting business, and what nearly two decades of advising manufacturers has taught her about creating products customers truly value. The conversation explores why leadership development matters as much as technical training, how mentorship accelerates careers, why product design should reduce installation complexity, and what the industry can do to attract—and retain —the next generation of talent. Whether you're a contractor, manufacturer, distributor, educator, or industry leader, this discussion offers practical ideas for building stronger businesses by investing in people. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-sidebottom/ Jane's Business Website: https://www.amk-llc.com/ Women In HVACR: https://www.womeninhvacr.org/ This Year's conference: https://www.womeninhvacr.org/built-for-speed This episode was recorded in July 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "When your HVAC system is performing at 100%, but the home isn't, the problem isn't the equipment anymore." "Our job is to be investigators first and installers second." "Homeowners don't just need to know their HVAC system. They need to know their home." "If you think I'm doing too much testing, I'd argue you're probably not doing enough." Many HVAC contractors say they focus on comfort, but Derek Aarstad has built his entire business around proving where comfort problems actually originate . As the owner of DNA Heating & Cooling in Richmond, Virginia, Derek approaches every home as an investigator, using airflow measurements, static pressure, duct leakage testing, blower door testing, thermal imaging, and building science principles before recommending solutions. In this conversation, Bill and Derek discuss why replacing equipment often fails to solve comfort complaints, how educating homeowners builds trust, and why standardized processes have been essential to growing a successful high-performance HVAC company. Derek also shares lessons learned from hiring technicians, the value of documenting every step of the customer experience, and how organizations like NCI have influenced his approach to technical excellence and continuous learning. Whether you're an HVAC contractor, home performance professional, or simply interested in how buildings really work, this episode offers practical insights into diagnostics, customer communication, and building a business that stands out by solving problems instead of simply replacing equipment. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-aarstad-91a328247/ Website: https://dnarva.com/ NCI: https://www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com/ NCI Summit: https://www.gotosummit.com/ This episode was recorded in July 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "You sell an amazing product that represents the future of home heating and cooling. But selling it, promoting it, and capturing consumers' attention is hard. At 257, we use data to help you do that more efficiently." "The best way to judge the effectiveness of machine learning and AI is by the outcome: Did I sell more at a lower cost?" "It wasn't simply having a heat pump or solar system. Talking about it during the sales process had a positive effect on the home's sale price." How can HVAC contractors identify the homeowners most likely to invest in better systems—and reach them before an emergency replacement? Bill welcomes Scott Rosenberg, co-founder of 257, a home-energy intelligence company using data and machine learning to profile nearly every home in the United States. Scott shares how his earlier work building Roku's advertising business led him from valuable "home screen real estate" to using data to understand actual homes and the people living in them. Scott explains how 257 combines roughly 200 attributes across 130 million households, including building characteristics, estimated HVAC type and age, household demographics, energy assets, and purchase-propensity scores. Its free conversational interface, Pink, lets users ask plain-language questions such as how many owner-occupied homes in a contractor's service area have aging HVAC equipment that appears ready for an upgrade. Rather than relying on a few simple assumptions, the platform uses hundreds of signals to help contractors, manufacturers, utilities, and energy companies improve customer acquisition. The conversation also explores a major study that examines more than 140 million real estate transactions. The research found that homeowners who highlighted solar systems or heat pumps in their real estate listings received a measurable benefit to their home's sale price. Scott discusses the disconnect between consumers, who increasingly value energy efficiency, and real-estate professionals, who may not yet feel prepared to explain these systems. For HVAC contractors, the message is powerful: a high-performance system is not only about lower energy use, comfort, reliability, and safety; properly documented and communicated, it can also contribute to the home's future value and marketability. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottarosenberg/ Website: www.257.co Sign up to see the power of this data: https://257.co/#product The study we mention: https://257.co/blog/highlighting-home-efficiency-boosts-value Canary Media: https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/heat-pumps/heat-pump-home-value This episode was recorded in June 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Comfort isn't just about air temperature—it's also about the temperature of everything around you." "If it's difficult to maintain, eventually it simply won't be maintained." "Stay curious about your built environment. Pay attention, ask questions, and keep learning." Edward Louie of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory joins Bill Spohn for a thoughtful discussion that goes far beyond heat pumps. Known throughout the building science community for his data-driven LinkedIn posts and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom, Edward shares how curiosity has shaped both his career and his approach to research. From growing up in a drafty, inefficient home to conducting cutting-edge research on building energy, he explains why asking better questions often leads to better buildings. The conversation explores what really determines HVAC performance in the field. Edward discusses why airflow and proper system sizing matter more than headline efficiency ratings, how radiant temperature influences comfort just as much as air temperature, and why installation quality remains the industry's biggest opportunity for improvement. He also shares practical perspectives on dual-fuel systems, the refrigerant transition to R-32 and R-454B, duct leakage, and why equipment manufacturers should place a greater emphasis on serviceability and maintenance. Whether you're a contractor, designer, or building performance professional, this episode is a reminder that excellence comes from paying attention to the details. Edward encourages listeners to stay curious, collect data, challenge assumptions, and never stop learning—because the best improvements in our industry often begin with a simple question. Edward's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-louie-5a58a13b/ The Building America Solution Center: https://basc.pnnl.gov/ Edward's LinkedIn discussions: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_heatpump-modernheatpumps-heatpumpperformance-activity-7425636437431115777-TIXA https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_green-energy-series-25-implementing-a-dual-activity-7314650421640208384-TLYS https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_green-energy-series-25-implementing-a-dual-activity-7314650421640208384-TLYS https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_r32-r454b-refrigeranttransition-activity-7331932555643969537-RMws https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_hvac-heatpump-qualityinstall-activity-7231203656295981057-szH9 https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_hvacmaintenance-indoorairquality-activity-7372829495155724288-DWuh https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_hvac-hvacservice-datafromreality-activity-7420168545113747456-M-Tp https://www.linkedin.com/posts/edward-louie-5a58a13b_duct-design-significantly-impacts-duct-performance-activity-7291555164618924032-OhhC This episode was recorded in July 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Technology does its best work when it turns invisible problems into obvious next steps." "Most buildings are already telling us what they need. The trick is finally learning how to listen." "You can't optimize what you can't see, and old buildings have been hiding their stories in boiler rooms for decades." In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill speaks with Heather Zoberman of ENTECH about how older multifamily buildings can move from basic, wasteful boiler control toward smarter, data-driven heating and cooling management. Heather explains that many large buildings are still controlled by simple timers and fixed-temperature resets, often leading to overheated apartments, open windows, tenant discomfort, and wasted energy. Heather describes ENTECH's approach: proprietary boiler-room hardware, wireless apartment sensors, cloud-based analytics, alerts, and a service team that actively monitors and optimizes building performance. Rather than simply reacting to tenant complaints or high utility bills, the system gives owners and operators visibility into what is really happening across the building, including hidden problems such as return-line leaks, short-cycling, and overheating caused by designing around the coldest apartment. The conversation also touches on New York City's Local Law 97, carbon reduction, compliance, and the opportunity for contractors, engineers, and boiler professionals to recommend or partner with technology providers like ENTECH. Heather's core message is that the industry is moving rapidly from reactive controls to predictive building management, helping reduce energy waste, improve comfort, extend equipment life, and lower emissions. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-zoberman-127769144/ Website:https://entechsmart.com/ Email contacts: Laura@entechsmart.com Heather@entechsmart.com Phone: 732-730-1595 This episode was recorded in June 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Heat pumps can't meet their promise if they're not properly maintained." "Vacuuming the filter matters, but it is not the same thing as deep cleaning the system." "If it has a coil and a fan, we can clean it." "Electrification only works as intended when the equipment keeps working as intended." In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill talks with Gabriel Erde-Cohen, founder of We Clean Heat Pumps, about an often-overlooked part of electrification: what happens to heat pumps after installation. Gabriel shares how his Vermont-based business grew from cleaning mini-splits for a family installation company into a specialized maintenance company operating across New England and in markets around the country. His core point is simple: heat pumps cannot deliver on their promise of efficiency, comfort, durability, and healthier indoor air if they are not properly cleaned and maintained. Gabriel explains the difference between basic homeowner filter care and true deep cleaning. His team removes covers, protects the home, uses low-pressure washing, alkaline soap, enzyme treatments, and active condensate-line vacuuming to remove biological buildup, dust, debris, and biofilm from coils, fans, pans, and outdoor units. He is careful to distinguish maintenance from repair, noting that his company refers service issues back to installer partners rather than competing with them. The discussion also covers ducted and ductless systems, PTACs, ERVs, HRVs, outdoor units, heat pump water heaters, and the importance of not simply killing biological material but actually removing it from the building. The conversation broadens into the future of the industry: annual cleaning, monitoring devices, commissioning, efficiency data, installer partnerships, and the potential for maintenance standards or even a trade association. Gabriel argues that annual deep cleaning is usually the right starting point, though real-world conditions can vary widely. He also shares early observations of efficiency improvements after cleaning and emphasizes that better data will be needed to help utilities, manufacturers, and programs recognize heat pump cleaning as part of the larger electrification and indoor air quality picture Email: Gabriel@WeCleanHeatPumps.com Website: www.WeCleanHeatPumps.com Installer Page: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-erde-cohen-591146226/ This episode was recorded in June 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Passed inspection is not the same as built correctly." "The best inspectors keep learning, because no one person masters every trade, every code, and every overlap." "Small defects do not stay small when they are hidden behind walls, ceilings, and warranty paperwork." In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn talks with Cy Porter of CYFY Home Inspections, an Arizona-based home inspector known for his blunt, high-energy social media videos that expose defects in new-construction homes. Cy specializes in one-year and two-year warranty inspections, helping homeowners identify issues missed at closing, including gas leaks, broken trusses, shower pan failures, air-sealing problems, roof defects, and code violations. His work sits at the intersection of construction quality, homeowner advocacy, and the sometimes uncomfortable gap between "passed inspection" and "actually built right." Cy explains how Arizona's implied warranty process gives homeowners a path to challenge legitimate construction defects, and how state investigators can issue written directives or citations when builders fail to correct violations. He also explains why patience, proper tool use, and cross-trade humility matter, especially when diagnosing small gas leaks, blower-door failures, and hidden installation mistakes. His stories reveal how small defects can become larger problems with safety, durability, comfort, and performance when no one catches them early. For HVAC, building performance, HERS©, and home inspection professionals, this conversation is a reminder that quality construction requires more than a signed-off checklist. It takes curiosity, documentation, collaboration, and the willingness to be corrected. Cy's approach may ruffle feathers, but his larger message is hard to ignore: homeowners deserve homes that meet the standards they were promised. Cy's website: https://www.cyfyhi.com/ Cy's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cyfyhomeinspections Affiliate Links: beacons.ai/cyfy Facebook: facebook.com/cyfyhomeinspections TikTok: tiktok.com/@cyfyhomeinspections Instagram: instagram.com/cyfyhomeinspections This episode was recorded in May 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "The tighter your envelope, the more attention you have to pay to ventilation and indoor air quality." "The acoustics of the ordinary rarely gets attention." "There's so much good work being done, so much data being collected, and oftentimes it doesn't leave the hard drive." "Noise annoyance may be one of the things people are most passionate about." In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn welcomes Kieren McCord, a research scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, for a conversation about indoor environmental quality, acoustic comfort, and the often-overlooked benefits of building performance upgrades. Kieren shares her path from music and acoustics to building science, explaining how sound, comfort, air quality, thermal resilience, and human perception intersect in homes. The conversation explores how energy upgrades such as better windows, tighter envelopes, and improved insulation can create benefits beyond lower utility bills. Kieren explains how acoustic performance is measured, why low-frequency sound is difficult to block, how decibel weightings like dBA and dBZ work, and why human response to noise can be highly personal. She also discusses the promise and limitations of smartphone-based sound measurements, including the potential for making acoustic data collection more accessible to HERS© raters and home performance professionals. Kieren also shares details from recent field research on a Chicago window retrofit, in which triple-pane acoustic windows and careful installation resulted in a 35% reduction in whole-home air leakage. While the noise data is still being processed, the study aims to link measurable building improvements to homeowners' perceptions of comfort, quiet, smell, temperature, and overall livability. Her closing message is a call for more shared field data, more collaboration, and a stronger connection between academic research and the practical work being done every day by contractors, raters, and building performance professionals. Kieren's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieren-m/ US DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information; osti.gov Physical Phone Experiments: https://phyphox.org/ This episode was recorded in May 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Stop trying to HVAC your way out of bad buildings, and your results will market themselves." "The quality work and word of mouth are real when you're doing building science-backed work with quality staff." "Come with problems you're actively trying to work on and meet others who can help you work on them." In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill welcomes back Brent Davidson of the U.S. Heat Pump Summit for his third appearance. Brent shares what emerged from the first full-scale national Heat Pump Summit held in Massachusetts in November 2025, including the strong appetite among contractors for practical, business-focused heat pump education. The event is designed not as a policy forum or sales-heavy conference, but as a contractor-facing gathering where HVAC and plumbing professionals can learn how to build stronger, more profitable businesses around heat pumps, building science, and quality installation practices. Brent also discusses the launch of The Heat Pump Edge, a twice-weekly newsletter that extends the Summit's mission year-round by profiling successful contractors and sharing practical takeaways that others can apply in their own businesses. The conversation highlights contractors who are growing through training, word of mouth, building science, and better customer outcomes, not just bigger marketing budgets. Brent emphasizes that the best heat pump businesses are often led by people willing to share openly, train deeply, and professionalize the trades from the inside out. The episode closes with a look ahead to the next U.S. Heat Pump Summit, scheduled for September 15–16, 2026, in Worcester, Massachusetts. Brent describes the event as a place for motivated contractors to bring real business challenges, meet peers, learn from successful operators, and connect with exhibitors focused on the future of residential heat pumps. Bill sums it up with a very Pittsburgh-flavored thought: if your business needs help, look for the helpers at the Heat Pump Summit. Link to the Summit and free Tickets offer for contractors (as available): https://www.usheatpumpsummit.com/ Brent'sLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdavidson/ Brent's email: Brent@USHeeatPumpSummit.com The newsletter: www.The TheHeatPumpEdge.com This episode was recorded in May 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Ducts matter. Nobody cares much about them until something goes wrong." "HVAC systems are designed assuming clean, bare sheet metal." "Even a small layer of dust can become a mountain range to an air molecule." "Think like an air molecule." In this episode, Bill speaks with Dan Stradford of Action Duct Cleaning about what really happens inside HVAC duct systems over time and why cleaning can matter more than many people realize. Dan shares how the duct cleaning industry evolved from its "wild west" early days into a more standardized field through NADCA, with better equipment, training, and certification practices. Dan explains that even a thin layer of dust can disrupt airflow, increase turbulence, raise static pressure, and reduce system efficiency. Drawing from NADCA energy studies, he describes how cleaning returns, supplies, fans, coils, and air handlers each contributed measurable performance improvements, including major reductions in fan and compressor energy use. The conversation also covers how HVAC professionals can evaluate duct-cleaning contractors, when homeowners or building owners should consider cleaning, and why ductwork deserves more attention as a hidden yet critical part of indoor air quality, comfort, and system performance. Dan'sLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-stradford-b7509123/ The research paper we reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378778824012635 Another research paper on: Effects of HVAC Cleaning on Indoor Air Quality: A Multi-Season Demonstration of Exposure Assessment in Occupied Public School https://www.e3s-conferences.org/articles/e3sconf/pdf/2026/34/e3sconf_iaqvec2026_02030.pdf Dan's company: https://actionduct.com/ The video Dan referenced: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkGl7zljqN8 The National Air Duct Cleaners Association: https://nadca.com/ This episode was recorded in May 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "High-performance homes are not about the equipment. They are about the outcomes for the people inside." "The gap is not in technology. It is in execution and understanding." "The contractors who win are the ones who connect building science to real human experience." Recorded live at the 2026 National Home Performance Conference in Columbus, this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast brings together Bill Spohn, Eric Kaiser, and guest Brynn Cooksey for a conversation at the intersection of buildings, HVAC systems, and the people who live in them. This is PART 2, PART 1 was published last week The discussion opens with a reminder that high-performance homes are not just about equipment or design. They are about outcomes for occupants. Comfort, health, and real-world performance depend on how well systems are installed, commissioned, and understood. The group explores how contractors and practitioners can move beyond simply delivering equipment to truly delivering results. From the conference floor, the conversation highlights a broader industry shift toward accountability, better data, and a more holistic approach to home performance. The takeaway is clear: the future belongs to professionals who can connect building science, HVAC expertise, and occupant experience into one cohesive offering. This is a special one with interaction from the participants in the room who asked questions and shared experiences. Brynn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theairdoctor/ HVAC-U website: https://www.hvactrain.com/ Amply Energy: https://www.amply.energy/ Conuit Tech: https://getconduit.com/ Kwik Model: https://kwikmodel.com/ CoolCalc: https://www.coolcalc.com/ Grit Foundation: https://www.thegritfoundation.com/ The Socratic Method: https://tilt.colostate.edu/the-socratic-method/ CEDA Internships: https://www.weareceda.org/en/internships This episode was recorded in April 2026

Quotes from the episode: "High-performance homes are not about the equipment. They are about the outcomes for the people inside." "The gap is not in technology. It is in execution and understanding." "The contractors who win are the ones who connect building science to real human experience." Recorded live at the 2026 National Home Performance Conference in Columbus, this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast brings together Bill Spohn, Eric Kaiser, and guest Brynn Cooksey for a conversation at the intersection of buildings, HVAC systems, and the people who live in them. This is PART 1, PART 2 will drop next week! The discussion opens with a reminder that high-performance homes are not just about equipment or design. They are about outcomes for occupants. Comfort, health, and real-world performance depend on how well systems are installed, commissioned, and understood. The group explores how contractors and practitioners can move beyond simply delivering equipment to truly delivering results. From the conference floor, the conversation highlights a broader industry shift toward accountability, better data, and a more holistic approach to home performance. The takeaway is clear: the future belongs to professionals who can connect building science, HVAC expertise, and occupant experience into one cohesive offering. This is a special one with interaction from the participants in the room who asked questions and shared experiences. Brynn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theairdoctor/ HVAC-U website: https://www.hvactrain.com/ Amply Energy: https://www.amply.energy/ Conuit Tech: https://getconduit.com/ Kwik Model: https://kwikmodel.com/ CoolCalc: https://www.coolcalc.com/ Grit Foundation: https://www.thegritfoundation.com/ The Socratic Method: https://tilt.colostate.edu/the-socratic-method/ CEDA Internships: https://www.weareceda.org/en/internships This episode was recorded in April 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "We're not just selling tools anymore — we're building solutions that make the trade pro's life easier." "EOS gave us the discipline to focus on what really matters when everything is pulling at you." "(In golf,) you can't hit everything with a driver — great businesses know which tool to use and when." In this episode, Bill talks with Rich Benninghoff about Malco's evolution into the broader Malco Group and what it means to shift from a product company to a solutions platform. Rich shares how his 30-year journey across different business models shaped his approach to growth, ultimately leading to the strategic alignment and acquisition by Aspen Pumps. The result is a multi-brand platform designed to serve HVACR professionals more holistically, built around the "back of the van" concept — delivering a full suite of tools and solutions that make technicians' lives easier. A major enabler of this growth has been EOS, which Rich credits with bringing clarity, accountability, and alignment across a complex, multi-brand organization. Rather than reinventing systems, the team has stayed true to EOS fundamentals, embedding them into tools like Microsoft Teams to scale effectively. The conversation highlights how discipline, focus, and simplicity are critical when managing rapid expansion without losing operational integrity. Rich also emphasizes the importance of respecting the legacy of acquired brands while enhancing the customer experience through better access, service, and integration. Drawing inspiration from leaders like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, he reinforces a core principle: do a few things exceptionally well. The episode closes with a reminder that while strategy and systems matter, success ultimately comes down to people — both inside the organization and out in the field. Rich's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-benninghoff/ The Malco Group website: https://malcogrp.com/ What is EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/what-is-eos This episode was recorded in May 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "Great equipment doesn't build a reputation. Great technicians do." "Use AI like a tool, not a crutch. The work still belongs to the person in the attic." "We're missing mentorship across generations, and that gap is costing the trades more than we realize." In this episode, Bill sits down with Rhydon Atzenhoffer, host of the HVAC R&D Podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes well beyond tools and equipment. Rhydon shares how his show evolved from casual, relationship-driven conversations during COVID into a platform focused on learning, perspective, and the advancement of the trades. At the core of it all is a simple idea: HVAC is a people business first. The discussion digs into real points of tension in the industry, from the disconnect between engineers and field technicians to the way regulation is now driving much of the innovation cycle. Rhydon offers a candid take: great equipment is only as good as the people who install and service it, and too often those voices are underrepresented. He also highlights the growing role of AI and structured knowledge systems, not as replacements for technicians, but as tools to sharpen skills and preserve best practices. The episode closes with a strong call to action for contractors and business owners alike. Rhydon emphasizes collaboration over competition, investing in people, and rebuilding mentorship pipelines that once defined the trades. It's a forward-looking conversation grounded in experience, with a clear message: the future of HVAC depends on how well we develop people, not just products. Rhydon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasrhydonatzenhoffer/ His podcast website: https://www.hvacrnd.com/ Grit Foundation: https://www.thegritfoundation.com/ Quinn AI training, with your company's materials: https://meetquinn.ai/ This episode was recorded in April 2026.

Quotes from the episode: "If you're building something new, it has to be better in almost every way or it won't catch on." "The stuff that's bad inside your home doesn't filter out, you have to move it out." "We stopped over-modeling and just started testing in the real world as fast as possible." This episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast features Austin Riesenberger, founder of Swerv Air, a young entrepreneur tackling a surprisingly overlooked problem: how to bring fresh air into homes without sacrificing comfort, energy efficiency, or simplicity. Drawing from his background in HVAC engineering, physics, and personal struggles with asthma and poor indoor air quality, Austin set out to rethink ventilation from first principles. Swerv's solution is a compact, window-mounted fresh air system that filters incoming air while recovering heat and moisture through a regenerative cycling core. Unlike traditional ERVs that are bulky and contractor-installed, this unit is designed for easy, consumer-level installation with strong performance. The conversation dives into the technical trade-offs, including airflow, efficiency, noise, and form factor, as well as the importance of real-world testing over theoretical modeling in product development. Beyond the product itself, the episode highlights Austin's startup journey. From rapid prototyping and supply chain challenges to early beta deployments across multiple climates, the discussion offers insight into how modern hardware companies iterate quickly and build demand. It wraps with a call for beta testers and collaborators, positioning Swerv as a potential bridge between consumer IAQ needs and traditional HVAC solutions. Austin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-riesenberger-73502a1b6/ Swerv website: https://swervair.com/ Beta Tester SignUp: https://swervair.com/#beta This episode was recorded in April 2026.