Shows
RESTalkEP141 Ventilation, Codes & Comfort: What Builders Need to Know Now with Patrick Nielsen"As homes get tighter, ventilation isn't optional—it's essential." — Patrick Nielsen In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn sits down with Patrick Nielsen, Global Technical Products Manager at Broan-NuTone, to discuss the evolving world of home ventilation. With over two decades of experience, Patrick walks us through the major drivers shaping residential ventilation practices today—from tighter building envelopes to the growing emphasis on indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Patrick explains the importance of dwelling unit ventilation (DUV), spot vs. whole-house strategies, and the increasing role of energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) a...2025-06-0922 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP221 Consultative Selling Meets Smart Software in Home Performance with Amanda Godward (May 2025)“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 contr...2025-06-0633 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP220 Just Keep Learning: The HVAC Journey of Dirk Nauman (May 2025)“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, pr...2025-05-3037 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP219 Thermentor: Rethinking Load Calcs with Real Energy Data with Max Reichlin (May 2025)“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...2025-05-2331 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP218 Breaking Down Silos: The Path to Better Retrofit Training with Ben Hildebrandt (May 2025)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 silo...2025-05-1649 minRESTalkEP140 The Future of QA at RESNET®: Automation, Oversight, and ENERGY STAR Updates with Scott Doyle"You can’t manage what you can’t measure." — Peter Drucker In this insightful episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes Scott Doyle, RESNET’s Managing Director of Quality Assurance (QA), for a comprehensive update on what’s ahead in the world of RESNET QA®. Scott unpacks the most significant changes hitting the registry, Chapter 9 standards, and the QA app—all designed to modernize, streamline, and strengthen the QA process. The conversation delves into how these updates will affect HERS® raters and providers, with a major focus on the ENERGY STAR QA/QC program. Sco...2025-05-1226 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP217 Where Building Science Meets HVAC: Insights from New Orleans (April 2025)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...2025-05-0821 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP216 Built to Last: How JB Industries Keeps It Made in America (April 2025)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...2025-05-0240 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP215 Mindset, Metrics & Mastery: Anthony Woo’s HVAC Game Plan (March 2025)“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...2025-04-2540 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP214 Why Small HVAC Companies Get Stuck—and How WorkHero Helps Them Grow with Furman Haynes (March 2025)“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 o...2025-04-1834 min
RESTalkEP139 Concrete Innovations: The Story of Arizona’s First 3D-Printed Home with Jason Barlow"Innovation is taking two things that exist and putting them together in a new way." — Tom Freston In this episode of the RESTalk podcast, Bill Spohn sits down with Jason Barlow, former President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, to discuss a groundbreaking achievement in homebuilding—the first 3D-printed concrete home in Arizona. Jason shares how this innovative project, born from a collaboration with ASU graduates and a German scaffolding company, PERI, pushed the boundaries of affordable housing construction. From overcoming extreme heat challenges to designing a home with unique structural and artis...2025-04-1430 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP213 Revolutionizing HVAC: How Pearl Edison Bridges Homeowners and Contractors with Jake Yurek (February 2025)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 prop...2025-04-1130 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP212 Home Comfort Demystified: A Deep Dive with Eric George (February 2025)In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Eric George, founder of Home Comfort Advisor, to discuss his journey from insulation and energy audits to content creation and education. Eric shares how his background in home performance shaped his passion for providing homeowners and tradespeople with reliable, science-based information. He details his soon-to-launch online course, which simplifies building science principles for homeowners and professionals alike, helping them ask the right questions and make informed decisions about home comfort, insulation, and energy efficiency. Eric also dives into the importance of proper...2025-04-0433 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP210 Building Better: Why HVAC and Construction Must Work Together with Sophie Ashley (February 2025)In this episode of Building HVAC Science, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Sophie Ashley of Energy Vanguard, an HVAC designer with a background in carpentry and building science. Sophie shares her journey from hands-on construction work to HVAC design, emphasizing the critical integration of mechanical systems and building structures. She discusses the importance of feedback loops with installers and her experience performing HERS ratings in the field. Sophie also highlights the shift toward high-performance homes, the growing adoption of heat pumps, and the evolving role of ventilation strategies like ERVs. She provides insights on overcoming...2025-03-2133 min
RESTalkEP138 From Learning to Leading: How the ELC Fellows Are Transforming the Industry with Jennifer Goldberg, Dorian Gothard and Alex Haworth"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." – John F. Kennedy In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes the 2025 Emerging Leadership Council (ELC) fellows—Jennifer Goldberg, Dorian Gothard, and Alex Haworth—for an insightful discussion on their career journeys, experiences at the RESNET conference, and their visions for the future of energy efficiency and building science. Each fellow shares how they entered the industry, what drew them to the ELC program, and how they apply their knowledge professionally and personally. The conversation covers key takeaways from the RESNET conference, includin...2025-03-1031 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP208 Tools, Tech & Community: AHR Expo & HVAC Symposium Debrief with the Team from TruTech (February 2025)In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser, along with the TruTech Tools team, recap their experiences at the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium and AHR Expo in Orlando, Florida. They share insights from meeting industry professionals, attending educational sessions, and exploring the latest HVAC tools and technology. The team discusses key highlights, including the impact of Second Chance University, the HVAC Tactical Awards, and the High-Performance Hangout, emphasizing the strong sense of community within the industry. The team also dives into standout products showcased at AHR, such as Testo’s new thermal im...2025-03-0739 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP207 Craig Migliaccio on Bridging Theory and Practice in HVAC Education (January 2025)In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Craig Migliaccio, the creator of AC Service Tech, author, educator, and industry influencer. Craig shares his journey from teaching HVAC in high school to becoming a prolific author and content creator, driven by a passion for making practical, hands-on learning accessible to HVAC professionals and students. With over 60,000 copies sold of his first book and a rapidly growing suite of resources, Craig has made an indelible mark on the industry. Craig discusses the challenges and rewards of writing technical books, the value of bridging...2025-02-2840 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP205 Building Integrity in the Trades: A Canadian Contractor’s Journey with Manly Arnason (January 2025)In this heartfelt episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Manly Arnason, an HVAC business owner from Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. Manly shares his journey of transformation—from a challenging past to becoming a dedicated tradesperson with a mission to bring integrity and quality to the HVAC industry. Drawing from his experiences running a small business, Manly opens up about the challenges of implementing proper practices in the trades, the importance of continuous education, and the role of community in fostering growth and excellence. Manly’s story highlights the power of personal and...2025-02-1432 min
RESTalkInside RESNET®: Quality Assurance, Collaboration , and Impact with Ryan Moore, Jordi Kimbrough, and Michael Matthews“Excellence is never an accident. It results from high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities." – Aristotle (adapted interpretation) In this insightful episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn interviews three key members of RESNET's team.: Ryan Moore, Jordi Kimbrough in Quality Assurance, and Michael Matthews in Programs. Each brings a unique background and perspective to their roles, strengthening RESNET’s mission to ensure high-quality standards in energy-efficient home ratings. Ryan Moore, the Quality Assurance Investigations Program Manager, shares his journey from a varied backgro...2025-02-1028 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP204 Seitron Americas: Innovating HVAC Tools and Training with Jason Esteves and Dan Kelly (January 2025)In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jason Esteves and Dan Kelly from Seitron Americas. The discussion offers an in-depth look at Seitron’s evolution, its role in the HVAC industry, and the company's dedication to training and customer support. Jason and Dan share their personal journeys, recounting how they started in the industry, their mentorship under the late Ray Biarnes, and their passion for delivering high-quality products and service. The conversation highlights Seitron’s live-fire training academy, the launch of new products like the BeSafe portable gas...2025-02-0737 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP201 Evolving HVAC Strategies: Solving Problems for People, Not Just Homes (December 2024)In this insightful episode of Building HVAC Science, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser reconnect with Silas Hoeppner for a follow-up discussion that dives deeper into optimizing comfort and efficiency in existing homes. Silas shares his journey of transitioning from a house-centric approach to an occupant-centric model in his work, detailing the lessons he’s learned and how these shifts have reshaped his philosophy. You can find more details on Silas’ backstory in Episode 193, found here: https://www.buildinghvacscience.com/ep193-building-performance-with-purpose-silas-hoeppners-journey-november-2024/ Silas explains the importance of understanding homeowners’ unique goals and success metrics rather...2025-01-1745 min
RESTalkEP136 Your Guide to RESNET® 2025: Tracks, Events, and Exciting Updates with Clara HedrickNetworking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with ideas and opportunities -Michele Jennae In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn chats with Clara Hedrick, Lead Events Coordinator for RESNET®, to discuss the upcoming 2025 RESNET® Conference. Clara shares the event details, which is set to take place from January 26-29, 2025, in Tempe, Arizona. Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions, dynamic networking opportunities, and exciting receptions hosted by sponsors like NAIMA and Knauf. Clara highlights the innovative offerings this year, including a live demonstration of the new RE...2025-01-1319 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP200: 200 Episodes Strong: Reflecting on the Building HVAC Science Journey with Bryan Orr (December 2024)In this milestone episode, Bill Spohn and co-host Eric Kaiser welcome Bryan Orr, the instigat-ORR behind the creation of the Building HVAC Science podcast. They dive deep into the podcast's origin story, reflecting on how Bryan's love for audio and creative expression sparked a wave of content that has deeply impacted the HVAC industry. Bryan shares his journey from audio experimentation as a child to podcasting professionally, highlighting the values of curiosity, passion, and the abundance mindset in both personal and professional life. Bill and Bryan discuss how podcasting has shaped their careers and relationships, emphasizing the...2025-01-1042 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP199 Rebuilding Lives: The Mission of Second Chance University with Danny Huffman (December 2024)In this powerful episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser bring on a truly inspiring guest, Danny Huffman, founder of Second Chance University. Danny shares the transformative mission behind his organization, which helps individuals transitioning from incarceration, substance abuse, or homelessness rebuild their lives through HVAC training, life skills development, and career preparation. Danny’s passion shines as he recounts his journey, from growing up on a Texas farm to creating a program that changes lives. Listeners will learn how Second Chance University’s intensive six-week program provides participants not only with...2025-01-0334 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP198 Unlocking Building Potential: Ross Trethewey on Curiosity, Collaboration, and Innovation (December 2024)In this episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Ross Trethewey, a mechanical engineer, consultant, and building science advocate who also appears on This Old House. Ross shares his journey from being a fifth-generation plumber to becoming a professional engineer with a passion for high-performance buildings. He discusses the critical interplay between building systems and science, highlighting his work in residential and commercial design through his firm, TE2 Engineering. He also delves into his unique projects, including a World War I lookout tower retrofit, which underscores the importance of holistic building assessments. 2024-12-2737 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP197 Asbestos, Air Sealing, and ERVs: Navigating Home Renovations with Science (December 2024)In this engaging Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Dr. Allison Bailes, a renowned building science expert, to discuss his ongoing home remodeling journey. Allison shares his firsthand experiences of retrofitting a 1960s ranch home in Georgia, uncovering challenges, lessons, and unexpected discoveries along the way. Allison dives deep into the realities of balancing technical expertise with practical decision-making, from asbestos abatement to air sealing, insulation, and innovative systems like Zehnder ERVs. He highlights the importance of communication with contractors, dynamic environmental factors like radon and air leakage, and the challenges...2024-12-2034 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP196 Bill's review of 2024's podcasts (December 2024)In this episode, Bill Spohn reviews the 52 episodes of the Building HVAC Science Podcast. published in 2024. EP# Published Topic Guest(s) 147 1-5-24 Building science hiaku with Shawna Henderson Shawna Henderson 148 1-12-24 Trade Secrets Revealed- Inside Classset, the Platform Building a Blue-Collar Boom with Cooper Newby Cooper Newby 149 1-19-24 More Than Just Fixing Furnaces: Why NCI is the Heartbeat of the HVAC Industry with Dominick Guarino 2024-12-1315 min
RESTalkEP135 RESTalk Rewind 2024: Milestones, Innovations, and the Road Ahead with Bill Spohn"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." – Eleanor Roosevelt Welcome to a special episode of RESTalk: "Best of RESTalk 2024"! This year has been transformative for RESNET® and the residential energy efficiency industry. From setting bold goals to launching innovative tools and forming impactful collaborations, 2024 has redefined what's possible in energy efficiency and sustainability. In this episode, we revisit the year's most insightful and impactful moments, featuring highlights from the conversations that shaped the industry. Join us as we dive into the ambitious goal of achieving 1 milli...2024-12-0938 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP195 Farming Ideas vs. Farming The Land: Reflections from Another Continent with Bill Spohn (November 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric dives into Bill's recent two-week trip to Africa, covering his time in Kenya and Tanzania. The discussion is rich with cultural insights, unique experiences, and lessons in building science. Bill shares his observations of local architecture, sustainability practices, and the warmth of the people he met, all against the backdrop of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. The full video presentation will be available shortly on the Trutech Tools YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruTechTools/featured Key highlights include: The...2024-12-0638 minBuilding HVAC ScienceEP193 Building Performance with Purpose: Silas Hoeppner’s Journey (November 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser sit down with Silas Hoeppner, a passionate advocate for building performance and HVAC design, to explore his unconventional career journey in the industry. Silas shares his story of starting in his family's insulation business, transitioning through various roles in energy ratings, HVAC consulting, and contracting, and ultimately finding his niche at Modern Heating and Air Conditioning in Iowa. He details the challenges he faced, such as battling imposter syndrome and the steep learning curve of technical design, while also emphasizing the importance o...2024-11-2252 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP192 Building a Legacy: Energy Efficiency and Innovation with Mark Kaiser (October 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Eric's father, Mark Kaiser, for a special father-son discussion. Mark shares his experiences with building and improving a unique energy-efficient home in Carlinville, Illinois. His journey began in the late 1970s, when he retrofitted a modest house to reduce energy consumption using insulation, solar energy, and a variety of unconventional methods. Mark talks about his motivation for energy efficiency, stemming from his role overseeing utilities at Blackburn College, where he gained valuable insights into energy management and building systems. ...2024-11-1534 min
RESTalkEP134 Boosting Efficiency: How RESNET®’s QA App Is Transforming the Industry with Kiro Bondarev, Kelvin Abong and Billy GiblinWithout continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning. – Benjamin Franklin In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn speaks with three guests to discuss the RESNET® QA app, an innovative tool designed to streamline the quality assurance process for home energy ratings. Bill is joined by Billy Giblin, RESNET®’s quality assurance field specialist, Kelvin Abong and Kiro Bondarev from The Fourth Dimension (4D), RESNET®'s technology partner. Together, they explore the app’s journey from ideation to execution, its role in harmonizing quality assurance efforts, and the benefits...2024-11-1130 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP191 From Building Automation to Smart Homes: The Lumen Cache Revolution with Derek Cowburn (October 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Derek Cowburn, founder of Lumen Cache, to discuss his journey from building automation in pharmaceutical facilities to pioneering smart DC power systems for homes and offices. Derek shares how his background in building controls and automation influenced his development of Lumen Cache; a company focused on creating a smart infrastructure that integrates DC power to drive lighting, sensors, and automation. He explains the advantages of DC power, especially as modern buildings transition to solar panels, batteries, and increasingly DC-centric electronics. Derek explores...2024-11-0848 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP188 Young HVAC Prodigy: Elena Day’s Journey to EPA Certification at 12 (September 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Elana Day and her father Jordan Day, creators of the YouTube channel Little Miss Fix It. At just 12 years old, Elana has achieved remarkable feats, including passing the EPA-608 certification, possibly making her one of the youngest certified HVAC technicians. The conversation highlights Elana’s growing interest in HVAC, her passion for science, and how her curiosity and hands-on learning led her to explore technical trades. Elana shares her experience preparing for the EPA certification through a month-long study program, aided by...2024-10-1826 min
RESTalkEP133 Bridging the Gap: The Future of Energy Code Compliance with RESNET® HERS® Raters with Mark Johnson and Steve BadenKnowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice. Anton Chekhov In this episode of the RESTalk podcast, host Bill Spohn talks with Mark Johnson from the International Code Council (ICC) and Steve Baden from RESNET® about a new collaboration to enhance energy code compliance. They discuss the growing complexities of energy codes, particularly the challenge of ensuring compliance amid increasing technical and regulatory demands. To address this, ICC and RESNET® are introducing a program to involve HERS raters as third-party verifiers, providing quality assurance and supporting local code officials, esp...2024-10-0732 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP186 Unlocking Trades: The Power of Skillcat's Mobile Training with Ruchir Shah (September 2024)In the latest episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Bill Spohn speaks with Ruchir Shah, founder of Skillcat, a mobile training platform for skilled trades. Skillcat offers around 1,500 hours of training in areas such as HVAC, plumbing, appliance and electrical work, and has successfully trained over 300,000 individuals in just three years. Ruchir explains that the platform began as a free resource to make training accessible, eventually transitioning to a subscription model costing $10 per person per month. The app includes comprehensive certification courses and features a unique asynchronous proctoring system for exams, allowing users to take assessments flexibly.2024-10-0427 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP185 Building Better Homes: Bridging the Gap Between Energy Ratings and HVAC with Steve Byers (September 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn and co-host Eric Kaiser welcome Steve Byers from Energy Logic in Colorado. Steve shares his background and discusses his company's focus on energy ratings, sustainability work, and program compliance, such as Energy Star and DOE Zero Energy Ready programs. He explains how Energy Logic operates across Colorado and Hawaii, working primarily in new home construction while also addressing commercial and multifamily projects. Steve highlights the core role his company plays in ensuring that homes are built for optimal energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, which many builders may not...2024-09-2733 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP184 Cracking the Code: Mastering HVAC Design with Manual S with Russ King (August 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, host Bill Spohn is joined by co-host Eric Kaiser and guest Russ King to discuss various aspects of HVAC design, focusing on the complexities and updates to Manual S, a critical document for HVAC equipment selection. Russ King shares his extensive background in building energy modeling and HVAC design, including his journey from traditional HVAC methods to co-founding Coded Energy, a company that developed Kwik Model 3D, a 3D modeling software for load calculations, which has greatly simplified and improved the accuracy of HVAC designs. The conversation delves...2024-09-2042 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP183 Reinventing Wind Power: Inside the World of Harmony Turbines (August 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Chris and Cheryl Moore, the founders of Harmony Turbines, to discuss their innovative approach to wind energy. Chris and Cheryl share the origin story of Harmony Turbines, which started as a personal project in Chris’s basement, driven by his desire to create a quieter, more efficient wind turbine that could operate in lower wind conditions compared to traditional propeller turbines. They explain the challenges they faced, particularly in moving from a small-scale DIY project to a legitimate business venture, which in...2024-09-1355 min
RESTalkEp 132 From 360K to 1 Million: RESNET®’s Vision for the Future with Scott Doyle and Ryan MeresQuality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort. John Ruskin In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn is joined by Scott Doyle and Ryan Meres from RESNET® to discuss their ambitious goal of achieving one million ratings annually by 2028. The conversation begins with an overview of RESNET®'s significant progress, which recorded 360,000 ratings in 2023—a 136% increase since 2013. The discussion highlights the importance of quality assurance in maintaining the credibility of the HERS rating system, particularly as RESNET® scales its operations and engages more stakeholders. ...2024-09-0926 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP182 Transforming Homes and Training Minds: The Brynn Cooksey Approach (July 2024)In the recent episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Brynn Cooksey, the owner of Air Doctors Heating and Cooling. Brynn, who is deeply involved in the HVAC industry and building performance, shares his journey from growing up in a family-run HVAC business to becoming an influential figure in the industry. He recounts how his early exposure to the field through his parents' business and subsequent work with a utility company helped shape his career. Brynn emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the significant impact organizations like the Refrigeration Service Engineers...2024-09-0634 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP181 From Drawings to Durability: Inside the Minds of Building Science Experts with Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn (August 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser discuss their recent experiences at industry events, particularly the Westford Symposium on Building Science, also known as Building Science Summer Camp. They reflect on the event's unique blend of technical presentations and social interactions, highlighting the presentation by Keith Simon on the longevity of building designs and the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality. The discussion emphasizes how architecture should prioritize craft and function to ensure the longevity and sustainability of buildings. Eric also shares his insights on another compelling presentation by Steve...2024-08-3027 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP180 Home Monitoring Madness: Tracking Energy, Air, and More with Bill and ELK (July 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser engage in a lively "duo cast" discussing the various measurements they take in their homes and the reasons behind them. They start the conversation by reflecting on their recent episode with Gary Klein, which inspired Eric to set up a data logging system to monitor hot water temperatures in his home. This leads to a broader discussion about the different tools and devices they use to track energy consumption and efficiency, such as the Emporia Vue energy monitor, which helped Bill identify a faulty...2024-08-2340 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP179 The Science of Hot Water: Insights and Innovations with Gary Klein (July 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser are joined by Gary Klein, a veteran in the field of energy conservation, particularly in hot water system design. The discussion begins with Klein explaining his innovative teaching method, using tape on the floor to illustrate the distances between water heaters and home fixtures. This method helps participants understand the time it takes for hot water to reach different parts of a house. Klein emphasizes the importance of efficient hot water system design, criticizing common practices that prioritize aesthetics over functionality. The...2024-08-1644 min
RESTalkEP131 HERS Ratings Unveiled: Insights into America's Energy-Efficient Homes with Ryan MeresThe greatest value of a picture is when it forces us to notice what we never expected to see. John Tukey In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes his most frequent guest, RESNET staff member, Ryan Meres, to discuss the latest trends in the 2024 edition of the HERS-rated homes. This report, created as an initiative of the RESNET Suppliers Advisory Board, highlights data trends and analysis in the residential construction market. The report shows a consistent year-over-year increase in HERS ratings, with the total number last year reaching 362,000, and projections for th...2024-08-1224 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP178 From Gopher to Guru: Steven Rardon's HVAC Journey (July 2024)In the latest Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, co-hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome special guest Steven Rardon, a YouTube celebrity and owner of Smart Home Comfort. Rardon discusses his journey in the HVAC industry, which began at age 17, working for his girlfriend's father's small HVAC business. Over the years, Rardon transitioned through various roles from installer to service technician, eventually moving to North Carolina in 2005 to pursue better job opportunities. He faced numerous challenges but remained committed to improving his skills and knowledge, which led him to start his own company, Smart Home Comfort. Rardon...2024-08-0940 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP177 Smart Tools, Smarter Tech: Jim Bergmann's MeasureQuick Evolution (July 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jim Bergmann as their special guest. The conversation kicks off with a discussion about Jim's well-known product, MeasureQuick, and its origins. Jim elaborates on the journey from his early work with performance and diagnostics using the iManifold to the development of MeasureQuick. The goal was to leverage smart tools and smartphones to perform complex calculations and diagnostics, making advanced performance measurements accessible to everyone in the HVAC industry. Jim explains the evolution of MeasureQuick over the past 12-15 years, emphasizing its role...2024-08-0237 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP176 Empowering Engineers: The HeatGeek Approach to High-Efficiency Heating with Adam Chapman (July 2024)In this Building HVAC Science Podcast episode, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Adam Chapman from HeatGeek to discuss his insights and experiences in the HVAC industry. Adam, based in the UK, shares his journey of establishing HeatGeek, which started as a blog and YouTube channel aimed at improving heating systems' efficiency and evolved into a comprehensive training and support network for heating engineers. He emphasizes the importance of proper installation and the high efficiency of heat pumps, even in older, less insulated homes, highlighting the significant impact well-trained engineers can have on system performance. Adam...2024-07-2644 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP175 From Engineering to Sales Karine LeBlanc on Building Connections in HVAC (July 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Karine LeBlanc, a distinguished engineer and international speaker. Karine shares her journey into the HVAC industry, which started under the influence of her father, an HVAC teacher and contractor. Despite her exposure to HVAC from a young age, she made an independent decision to pursue a career in the field after discovering the job security it offered. Her diverse career includes roles in engineering and sales, which allowed her to leverage both her technical skills and her extroverted personality. Karine emphasizes...2024-07-1932 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP174 Smart Homes, Smarter Trades Dan Goodman Discusses Building 36’s Innovations (July 2024)In this Building HVAC Science podcast episode, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn interview Dan Goodman from Building 36, a company specializing in connected home services. Dan explains the origin of the company's name, which is a nod to the MIT building where he studied electrical engineering and computer science. He shares his journey from working on semiconductors to co-founding a thermostat company and eventually creating Building 36. The company provides smart home solutions tailored for professional trades, aiming to enhance customer retention through advanced monitoring and maintenance plans. Dan elaborates on the capabilities of Building 36’s connected thermostat an...2024-07-1234 min
RESTalkEP130 RESNET 2025 Preview: Celebrating 30 Years and 4 Million Homes With Clara HedrickGreat things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people. Steve Jobs Bill Spohn welcomes RESNET staff member Clara Hedrick to discuss the upcoming RESNET 2025 conference. Clara, the lead events coordinator for RESNET, shares her excitement about the event and details her responsibilities. The conference is scheduled for January 27-30, 2025, in Tempe, Arizona, a location praised for its accessibility, nightlife, and natural beauty. Clara highlights the venue, Tempe Mission Palms, chosen for its amenities and feedback from previous events. With a goal of 500 attendees, Clar...2024-07-0816 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP173 Harnessing AI for Healthier Buildings: Insights with Attune's Co-Founder Julien Stamatakis (June 2024)Bill Spohn welcomes Julien Stamatakis, co-founder of Attune (formerly SenseWare). Julien shares his journey from working on sensor networks for Parkinson's disease detection during his PhD in Belgium to co-founding a company focused on monitoring the built environment. Initially, their sensor technology aimed at the medical field faced funding challenges, which led them to pivot towards the built environment. They began by collecting energy data and expanded to include various sensors to monitor air quality, occupancy, and energy usage in commercial buildings. Julien discusses the evolution of their sensor technology, highlighting how customer needs have shaped their...2024-07-0524 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP172 Tech Trends and HVAC Triumphs: A Denver Summit Recap (June 2024)In this Building HVAC Science podcast episode, hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser discuss their recent trip to Denver, Colorado, where they attended the U.S. Heat Pump Summit. They describe the event as a comprehensive gathering of professionals interested in heat pumps, covering technical presentations, regulatory updates, and industry developments. The summit featured various sponsors and exhibitors, including Daikin, Rheem, and TruTech Tools, highlighting the diverse industry support for the event. Eric and Bill delve into the U.S. Heat Pump Summit details, sharing insights about the different companies and technologies represented there. They mention innovative...2024-06-2825 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP171 Bill’s updates (June 2024)In this short episode, Bill Spohn provides updates on new products, presentations, resources, and interesting travel he and Eric Kaiser have been engaged with during the last few months. LINKS https://www.youtube.com/@TruTechTools/videos https://trutechtools.com/yellow-jacket/ https://trutechtools.com/jb-industries.html https://hvacrschool.com/ www.betterhvac.org www.building-performane.org www.getduckling.com https://www.zerohomes.io/ www.sealed.com https://getconduit.com/ www.amply.energy www.kwikmodel.com 2024-06-2109 min
RESTalkEP129 Empowering Builders: RESNET's Push for Water and Energy Efficiency With Paulette McGhie and Ryan Meres"In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught." — Baba Dioum In the latest episode of RESTalk podcast, Bill Spohn hosts Paulette McGhie and Ryan Meres to discuss RESNET®'s innovative approaches to water, carbon, and building codes. Paulette McGhie, who recently joined RESNET, shares her extensive background in energy compliance and her passion for energy transparency, driven by a personal experience involving her mother's high utility bills. She now focuses on outreach, education, and advocacy, aiming to pr...2024-06-1028 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP169 From Attics to Airwaves: Tony Mormino’s HVAC Journey (May 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Tony Mormino, the Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Insight Partners, an HVAC commercial rep firm operating in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Tony shares his journey in the HVAC industry, which started 25 years ago when he helped his father, a residential HVAC technician. Seeking a different path, Tony pursued an engineering degree and eventually transitioned into HVAC sales. The onset of COVID-19 pushed him into marketing as he sought ways to maintain customer engagement online, leading to his current role. 2024-06-0728 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP167 Tech Meets Trades Wyatt Smith's Mission to Modernize Workforce Productivity (APRIL 2024)In this episode of the "Building HVACScience" podcast, Wyatt Smith, founder and CEO of Upsmith, joined hosts Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser to discuss his company's innovative approach to tackling America's skilled worker shortage. Wyatt detailed how Upsmith develops software aimed at enhancing productivity in the trades industry by using strategic technology to manage and improve workforce performance. He emphasized the importance of aligning employee behavior with company goals to drive profitability, especially given the challenges such as high interest rates and market uncertainty heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the podcast, Wyatt elaborated on the specific...2024-05-2435 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP166 Simplifying Home Electrification: Insights from Zero Homes' Grant Gunnison (May 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn are joined by Grant Gunnison from Zero Homes. The discussion kicks off with Grant mentioning upcoming conferences in Denver related to home electrification and heat pumps, which he, Eric, and Bill plan to attend. Grant shares insights on the complexities homeowners face when installing electrification technologies, emphasizing the time-consuming nature of getting familiar with new technologies and the challenge of finding reliable contractors. Grant elaborates on the cumbersome customer journey in home electrification, from initial research to contractor consultations. He highlights how...2024-05-1729 min
RESTalkEP128 Building the Future: The Rise of Build-to-Rent Housing With Thomas Cochran and Laurel Elam"Build-to-rent isn't just about providing a place to live; it's about crafting communities where flexibility and convenience meet modern living standards." In this episode of the RESTalk podcast, host Bill Spohn welcomed returning guest Laurel Elam and new participant Thomas Cochran. The discussion primarily centered on the burgeoning trend of build-to-rent (BTR) housing. Thomas, who serves as the Senior Vice President of National Business Development and Marketing at ARCXIS, shared insights on his role which involves strategic partnerships and initiatives that span regional to national scales, focusing lately on sustainability and energy efficiency in building...2024-05-1325 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP165 Blueprints for Efficiency: Enrico Bonilauri’s Deep Dive into Building Standards (APRIL 2024)In the latest episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser and co-host Bill Spohn welcomed guest Enrico Bonilauri, an architect originally from Italy now based in the U.S. Enrico shared insights from a comprehensive study comparing various building standards across 50 projects to evaluate energy efficiency and performance. He discussed the differences between international and American passive standards and the standard American building code, emphasizing the need for builders to adopt high-performance building techniques. Throughout the discussion, Enrico highlighted the challenges of aligning different building standards and introduced a scoring system he developed to assess...2024-05-1034 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP163 Lies, Damn Lies and Manometer Readings with Jesse Smith (MARCH 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcome Jesse Smith, a carpenter turned HVAC enthusiast. Jesse, who has written an intriguing article titled "Lies, Damned Lies, and Manometer Readings" for Asterisk Magazine, shares his journey from carpentry to specializing in high-performance building and energy retrofits. His early exposure to energy efficiency through his father's work, combined with his professional evolution amidst the housing bubble, laid the foundation for his deep dive into HVAC systems and home performance standards. Jesse discusses his experiences and challenges in HVAC, emphasizing the widespread...2024-04-2634 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP160 From Recovery to Revolution: The Jason Julian HVAC Journey With Jason Julian (February 2024)In this engaging interview on the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed Jason Julian, owner of Julian Heating and Air in Arkansas, to discuss his remarkable journey and the evolution of his business. Julian's story is one of resilience and transformation, beginning with his entry into the HVAC industry as a recovering drug addict and felon in need of employment. His eagerness to learn and improve not only his skills but also the comfort and satisfaction of his customers propelled him from a temporary helper to a business owner dedicated to quality service and...2024-04-0543 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP157 Heat Pumps, Homes, and High Tech Amply Energy's HVAC Evolution With Ed Smith and Eric Fitz (February 2024)In this episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, co-hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed special guests Ed Smith and Eric Fitz from Amply Energy. The group began by sharing their experiences at the recent HVACR school symposium in Florida, highlighting the significance of personal connections and shared knowledge in the industry. Ed Smith discussed his transition from operating businesses to co-founding Amply, driven by a desire to make significant impacts, particularly in sustainable agriculture and decarbonizing chemical manufacturing. The conversation touched on the growing interest in climate change solutions and the role of technology in advancing building...2024-03-1539 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP154 Closing the Gap: AeroSeal's Quest for Net-Zero Buildings With Amit Gupta (January 2024)In this episode of the podcast hosts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn welcomed Amit Gupta from AeroSeal, a company specializing in duct sealing technology. Amit shared the backstory of AeroSeal, which was originally founded based on technology invented by Dr. Mark Modera at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The technology struggled to gain traction under its initial ownership by Carrier, leading Amit, who was working at Carrier post-MBA, to see the potential for significant energy efficiency improvements in homes through duct sealing. Amit's passion for the technology led to the acquisition and reboot of AeroSeal as an independent company in 2010...2024-02-2333 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP153 HVACR Horizons: From 12-Year-Old Prodigies to Industry Pioneers With Eric & Bill (February 2024)In this episode Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn review their experiences and insights from the 5th Annual HVACR School training symposium. They start by discussing the symposium's popularity, noting it had a cap of 300 attendees, indicating a high level of interest and engagement within the community. A highlight mentioned is a 12-year-old attendee, Atley D., who exemplified passion and intelligence for the HVAC trade, showcasing the diverse range of participants and the potential for young talent in the industry. They also cover various aspects of the symposium, such as the focus on practical learning sessions, tool and...2024-02-1646 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP151 From Ice to Inspiration: Highlights at the AHR Expo (January 2024)Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn share their experiences and observations from the 2024 AHR Expo, a major event for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry held this past week (Jan 22-24, 2024). Main points: There were thousands of vendors showcasing new products and technologies. We mention the educational sessions, standards committee meetings, and networking opportunities available at the event. New products and trends: We share some of the new products they saw at the expo, such as vacuum pumps from JB Tools, core tools from Fieldpiece, and a digital manifold from Yellow Jacket. ...2024-02-0224 min
RESTalkEP123 The Best of RESTalk 2023 with Bill SpohnThat’s the funny thing about time. It is only in looking back that it’s easy to connect the dots. To see exactly why everything needed to happen the way that it did. - Rebecca Serle 11 episodes, 11 topics, 17 different guests and over 5 hours of RES-Talking in 2023! We covered a lot of ground in the RESTalk podcast in 2023, now going into our 6th year of episodes. We hope we stimulated your thinking and moved you into action in this ever-evolving world of home energy ratings and peripheral topics...2023-12-1145 min
Business Builders ShowBuilding a business out of frustration with the status quo – Bill SpohnShow Notes:In this episode of Business Builder Show, host Bill Prater interviews Bill Spohn, the CEO and founder of True Tech Tools. Spohn shares the journey of his company from a small operation running out of a spare bedroom to a multi-million dollar business offering curated tools and essential support to technicians and the energy industry worldwide. They serve businesses as well as individual technicians, advising them on best practices and selling tools direct.Additionally, Spohn talks about the company’s core values, their hiring process, and how their utilization of data is crucial for growth. He also emphasizes the...2023-12-0720 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP126 Forced to learn the fundamentals in order to make the math and science work with Jim Bergmann (July 2023)Let me take you back to a time, long, long ago, when Jim Bergmann did not understand everything in HVAC. Listen in as we delve into the story of Jim Bergmann and how the communities of HVAC, and more recently building science, helped to encourage and challenge Jim to become the HVAC guru that we know today. From his self-described times of annoying the crap out of Bill Spohn, to his overlapping experiences as a contractor, educator, product specialist, TruTech Tools founder, iManifold designer, and mQ master…Jim has had, no he has created, a un...2023-07-2847 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP124 Business Philosophy, why did we hire an ELK? With Eric Kaiser (July 2023)A simple episode where Eric Kaiser (ELK) and Bill Spohn (OverKill Bill) riff on TruTech’s business philosophies: Core Values, Purpose and Niche and what kind of actions we take to put these words into action in the world. Also what we feel it means to be a good steward to the industry. OH and cheer on #HVACLIFE team in the Maine 70.3 Ironman on July 30, 2023 featuring Chris Hughes (TEC-13.2 miles running), Chad Simpson (Simpson Salute – 56 miles bicycling) and our own Eric Kaiser – 1.2 miles swimming). https://www.ironman.com/im703-maine Links mentioned in the po...2023-07-1425 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP121 An unapologetic solocast with Bill Spohn (June 2023)Listen in as Bill chats with… himself! Again! He shares some recent, personal and business encounters and discussions that left an impression on him. We hope you find them interesting. This episode was recorded in June 2023. 2023-06-2317 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP109 A new product concept for contractors interested in residential electrification with John Hoehn of Duckling (February 2023)What’s it like to build a tech product from the ground up? How do you validate that a market exists? What tools can you use to gain confidence that you are on the right track? In this week’s podcast, Bill Spohn is joined by John Hoehn, CEO of Duckling. Duckling’s mission is to help contractors help their customers on their journey to electrifying their homes. John and his co-founder, Sudeep Yegnashankaran have deep backgrounds in software...2023-03-0333 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP108 Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn share a recap of the 2023 AHR Expo (February 2023)What do we do with our time? What did I do with my time in the last week? The Bangles said it best: … Time, time, time See what's become of me While I looked around for my possibilities In this episode, Bill is joined by Eric Kaiser where they share observations on products and events and the interesting people they engaged with during their 4 day excursion to the AHR Expo 2023. The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/ SUPCO TradeFox site a...2023-02-1739 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP 107 Bill Spohn explains what is keeping him busy lately (Feb 2023)In this episode, Bill explains some of the activities that have kept him busy in the first few weeks of 2023. The HVACR Symposium: https://hvacrschool.com/events/4th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/ The AHR Expo: https://www.ahrexpo.com/ Installing a new operating system at TruTech Tools: EOS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpXL2SGfkBc https://www.eosworldwide.com/ This episode was recorded in February 2023.2023-02-1015 min
RESTalkEP111 The Best of RESTalk 2022 with Bill SpohnWithout reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful. - Margaret J. Wheatley 23 episodes, 23 topics and 34 different guests. We covered a lot of ground in the RESTalk podcast in 2022, now going into our 5th year of episodes. (Over 12 hours of conversations about the world of RESNET!) We hope we stimulated your thinking and moved you into action in this often-complex world of home energy ratings. If you’d like to dig a little deeper into the...2022-12-1953 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP86 The essentials required to build a comfortable, healthy, efficient home with Casey Grey, The Conscious Builder (May 2022)In March 2022, I was invited to be a guest on the Conscious Builder Show with Casey Grey. I guess all the conversations I have been having about my modular NetZero house had reached north of the border to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, where Casey is based. Casey’s podcast with me is available here: EP181: https://theconsciousbuilder.libsyn.com/181-indoor-air-quality-and-net-zero-custom-build-with-bill-spohn_the-conscious-builder-show_05-05-2022 With a 10-minute video excerpt of the podcast interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jXyN3adkY0 We...2022-07-2929 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP79 Two Peas in a Podcast? HVAC Know It All & Building HVAC Science Swap Stories with Gary MacCreadie & Bill Spohn (May 2022)If you’re in the HVAC field and you listen to podcasts, it’s likely you’ve heard of Gary MacCreadie. If not, here’s your chance to get an inside perspective on how and why Gary got into the HVAC Field and later started a podcast audaciously named HVAC Know-It-All. Throughout the episode, we flip flop as interviewer and guest. Gary has recently started his own business, as he, like many others including me, do not like taking direction from others. Follow all content of the HVAC K...2022-06-1049 min
RESTalkEP87 RESTalk 2021 Highlight Reel with Bill Spohn“Whether it’s the best of times or the worst of times, It’s the only time we’ve got.” - Art Buchwald 23 episodes, 23 topics and 22 different guests. We covered a lot of ground in the RESTalk podcast in 2021. We hope we stimulated your thinking and moved you into action in this sometimes complex world of home energy ratings. If you’d like to dig a little deeper into the topics covered in these episodes, see the list mentioned in each section below. PART A...2021-12-2741 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP54: SpohnHome Interview of Bill Spohn hosted by Nate Adams of HVAC 2.0 (May 2020)“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” William Morris His head has been wrapped up in building and HVAC performance since the late 1980s. How does he sort through bringing his personal vision for his own home to reality? What’s it like actually living inside your theories? In this podcast, recorded in May 2020, our friend Nate Adams (from HVAC 2.0) becomes host and intervi...2021-06-2550 min
RESTalkEP73: Bill Spohn’s High Performance Home Journey hosted by Laurel Elam “The first step is clearly defining what it is you’re after, because without knowing that, you’ll never get it.” - Halle Berry How does a person deeply engaged in the world of home performance handle matters when it comes to building their own home? When it is “your own” you must strive to see the forest through the trees. What’s it like actually living inside your theories? In this podcast we spin the micropho...2021-06-0724 min
RESTalkEPB-1 Water standards, efficiency and conservation- A Joint Episode with the ICCAccess to clean, abundant water is critical to the maintenance and growth of society. And this is not just a regional or US theme, it is a global issue. In this joint podcast with ICC Pulse, RESTalk host Bill Spohn interviews RESNET Program Director Ryan Meres and Code Council Executive Director of Sustainability Programs Dave Walls about the new water ratings standard, water efficiency and conservation. We learn about the upcoming joint RESNET ICC standard 1101: Water Rating index and How HERS H2O fits in the picture. We cover a lot of ground on the topic: ranging from piping to...2019-05-1316 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP38 Personalized Home Performance - Bill Spohn's new home construction Part 1Today we turn the tables and your host becomes the guest! As you may or may not know Marilyn and I are building a new high-performance home this year (2019). Even though I have been involved in home performance for 30 years, it was in the narrow field of test and measurement, not in construction detail and aspects. And because it is our home and our money, everything about it is personal and I have a real hunger for the details which tends to complicate decisions! ...2019-02-0446 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP32 Tersh, Bryan and Bill chat about entrepreneurismCurious about what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Well, so are these three guys. Listen in as business owners Tersh Blissett (Icebound HVAC & Refrigeration), Bryan Orr (Kalos Services) and Bill Spohn (TruTechTools, LTD) discuss what it means to them to run their own businesses. This wide-ranging discussion produced many good nuggets of info as we discuss visionaries, idealism vs. realism, and breaking from the status quo amidst tons of other topics. You can reach these members of the BlueCollar Roots network at 2018-12-1444 min
RESTalkEP7- Recruiting the Next Generation of HERS Raters with Matt Gingrich and Val BriggsSimilar to what is happening with shifting demographics across the trades and construction industries, RESNET, too, is looking towards who will be their future leaders. Matt Gingrich, VP of the RESNET Board of Directors and Valerie Briggs, Communications Director for RESNET join host Bill Spohn to discuss the measures that RESNET is taking to address this trend. Learn about the newly formed ELC, or Emerging Leadership Council (of which Gingrich is the chairperson), which is poised to address this issue from many facets. From ex officio board and committee positions, to toolkits for schools, to...2018-08-2025 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP26 Where does LEED lead you? A Chat with Charlie Cichetti of GBES.comWhat is LEED? Who is involved in LEED? Why should I care about LEED? In today’s episode, Bill Spohn welcomes one of the leaders in the green building industry, Charlie Cichetti, Owner of Green Building Education Services (www.GEBS.com) and the Sustainable Investment Group (www.SIGEarth.com). Charlie covers the history of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) as well as recent changes and where things are headed in the future. We hear about the shift in focus from buildings to the people that work...2018-08-1735 min
RESTalkEP5- Investment in Growing the Demand for HERS Ratings with Val BriggsIn today’s episode, host Bill Spohn welcomes Valerie Briggs, Communications Director for RESNET. Val shares the many different communication channels RESNET is now using to engage with stakeholders to help achieve the goal that RESNET has for the year 2020: that 50% of all new homes be energy rated. This boost in communications activities is funded in part by the increase in rating fees, hence RESNET has really committed to reinvesting in growing the market for ratings. You’ll hear about the emails, newsletters, videos, as well as learning the anatomy of an infographic! 2018-07-3027 min
RESTalkEP4- Enhancing Consistency of HERS Rating Software with Steve BadenIn today’s episode, your host Bill Spohn welcomes Steve Baden, Executive Director for RESNET to discuss how RESNET is working to enhance the Consistency of HERS rating software results. RESNET acknowledges that rating scores have varied depending on the software used and this impacts the quality and impact that a rating can have for all parties. Additionally, RESNET understands this core topic can generate frustration amongst raters. He details out the many continuous improvement activities that have taken place and those that are planned including the recruitment of an energy modeling director to “referee” the co...2018-07-1624 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP 25 The Future of Housing: Reflections on the 2018 HabitatX ConferenceWhat will housing look like in the future? Who are some of the leaders? What are some the topics driving this industry? Bill Spohn welcomes back Chris Dorsi, contractor, educator, author and founder of HabitatX.com to give an overview of all the great discussions held at the 2018 HabitatX conference. We discuss the human aspect of housing which ties in intimately with the nature of this conference; it’s about the people. We take a walk through the 3 days of the conference* discussing how the structure of the...2018-07-0549 min
RESTalkEP3- RESNET's New Water Efficiency Rating with Ryan MeresIn today’s episode, host Bill Spohn welcomes Ryan Meres, Program Director for RESNET who discusses the new HERS H2O rating; a Water Rating index. Ryan takes us on a journey describing many facets of HERS H2O including the driving forces behind this project, how this standard is being developed, as well as the efforts being put in to provide the highest quality data in a water rating. Ryan walks us through the process of a HERS H2O rating demonstrating how it easily “tacks on” to a Home Energy Rating. You wi...2018-07-0235 min
RESTalkEP2- Enhancing the Quality of HERS ratings a conversation with Laurel Elam and Scott DoyleIn this episode, your host Bill Spohn welcomes Laurel Elam and Scott Doyle, two team members at RESNET dedicated to Quality Assurance. They discuss the importance of high quality information as a key component to help achieve the goal that RESNET has for the year 2020: that 50% of all new homes be energy rated. We also hear about the mountains of data that are collected and the new systems being put in place to use that data to the benefit of all stakeholders. You’ll hear about the proactive systems that are in place in...2018-06-2540 min
RESTalkEP1- RESNET 2020- Goals and Action Plan with Steve BadenWelcome to the new RESTalk podcast! In this inaugural episode, your host Bill Spohn welcomes Steve Baden to talk about RESNET’s goals for 2020. Steve is the executive director of RESNET, the Residential Energy Service Network, the top national organization for Home Energy Ratings. Steve will paint the big picture of the bold internal challenges set by the RESNET’s Board of Directors in 2016. He will discuss the changes in the way quality assurance will be done, the changes in the approach to rating software, and the development of new marketing campaigns that are being planned. So, let’s give a...2018-06-0225 min
Building HVAC ScienceEp 24 Building a thoughtful home, career and life with Chris Dorsi of HabitatXBill Spohn welcomes Chris Dorsi, contractor, educator, author and founder of HabitatX.com. Chris describes the current arc of his career which he describes as serial interventions starting with cutting timber for housing. Chris shares with us his very thoughtful, respectful and practical perspectives on the housing industry, with a focus on building better habitats for people. We discuss passive houses, factory-built homes and the lost cost of space that no one wants to live in. You’ll also be amongst the first to hear about his new initiative: House and Home: The New Pattern La...2018-05-2048 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP 23 AirQuest- Bill Spohn's take on airflow measurements, Part 4Show notes AirQuest 4 In this episode, Bill Spohn continues where he left off in Episode 3 of his AirQuest series, discussing airflow measuring methods and techniques. Bill covers vane anemometers as well as the garbage bag method (bag inflation device or BID) For a free copy of the ANSI standard mentioned in this episode go to www.bit.ly/RESNET-380 If you’d like to see a BID in action, the EPA Energy Star program created this explanatory video which can be viewed at this link: www.bit.ly/380-BID For a 4 part video lesson by Bill, start with lesson on...2018-04-1819 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP 22 AirQuest- Bill Spohn's take on airflow measurements, Part 3Show notes AirQuest 3 In this episode, Bill Spohn continues where he left off in Episode 2 of his AirQuest series, discussing airflow measuring methods and techniques. Bill Covers the TrueFlow measuring grid, air flow capture hoods and thermal (hot wire) anemometers. For a 4 part video lesson by Bill, start with lesson one on YouTube, at this link: http://bit.ly/AirFlowVideos If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Bill at Bill_Spohn@BlueCollarRoots.com2018-04-0921 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP15 Bryan and Bill’s big adventure: AHR Expo round up thru the eyes of a couple of nerdsBryan Orr and Bill Spohn spent 3 busy days learning, listening and absorbing the vibe at the world’s largest HVACR trade show, the AHR Expo which took place in Chicago at the end of January 2018. Come walk the auditory aisles with these two friendly nerds and see where the market is headed as a whole and with specific products.2018-01-3158 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP14 - CarFax for homes - Pearl Certification is looking for good contractorsOn this episode, Bill Spohn welcomes Bethany Profaizer and Amy Beley from Pearl Certification (www.PearlCertification.com). Pearl has created a unique and very cost effective, third party certification for the major “invisible” elements of a home: building shell (or envelope), HVAC/mechanical systems, energy baseload, home management and photovoltaic (PV) solar. Contractors actively working in any of these are disciplines are eligible to apply. Now active in 6 states and the District of Columbia, Pearl is partnering with new contractors and real estate professionals from across the country every day. Unlike other programs, there is no pre-qualification necessary for the...2018-01-1754 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP7 - Energy Rated Homes with Steve Baden Founder of RESNETToday we interviewed Steve Baden the founder and present day executive director of RESNET: The Residential Energy Services Network. There are now 2 million US homes that are energy rated from Alaska to Puerto Rico. Listen to Steve discuss his background and motivations for starting RESNET, a home energy rating system that benefits consumers and builders. There is also good potential for enterprising HVAC Contractors who might add home energy rating on to their business. Links to topics discussed in the episode: RESNET’s consumer facing website: www.RESNET.us RESNET’s website for Professionals: www.resnet.us/professional Info on R...2017-11-2943 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP6 - AirQuest- Bill Spohn's take on airflow measurements, Part 2In AirQuest part 2 Bill shares his depth of knowledge on airflow and measuring airflow including mass flow rate, CFM and much more..2017-11-1524 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP5 - AirQuest- Bill Spohn's take on airflow measurements, Part 1In AirQuest part 1 Bill shares his depth of knowledge on airflow and measuring airflow including mass flow rate, CFM and much more..2017-11-0915 min
Building HVAC ScienceEP4- It takes more than a good HVAC system to deliver comfortIt takes more than a good HVAC system to deliver comfort. In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn speaks with Robert Bean about the science of true human comfort. Some of his concepts are brutally logical and may cause you to rethink your approach to selling or delivering comfort. Find out what he calls “the pet rock” of construction. Robert is a seasoned technologist, researcher and construction professional whose mantra is “Design for People; Good Buildings Will Follow.” Listen to his perspectives on code grade construction versus constructi...2017-11-021h 01