Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast

ESCO Institute
Did You Know?-The ESCO HVAC Podcast

The ESCO Institute "Did you Know?" podcast provides HVACR professionals access to reliable, up-to-date, and relevant information, directly from trusted sources. The world of HVACR has been changing at an exponential rate over the last few years; new SEER ratings, flammable refrigerants, and an array of technological advances. Keeping up with all the changes in regulation, manufacturing, refrigerants and how to properly prepare students and technicians has became daunting. Many of our guests are speakers and exhibitors at the HVAC EXCELLENCE National HVACR Education Conference and represent every sector of the HVACR industry. Thanks for joining in!

  1. How EPA’s New Refrigerant Rules Are Transforming HVAC Compliance with Keeley Whitman

    1 DAY AGO

    How EPA’s New Refrigerant Rules Are Transforming HVAC Compliance with Keeley Whitman

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, host Clifton beck speaks with Keilly Witman, the nation's leading expert in refrigerant management and founder of Refrigerant Management Solutions. Together, they break down the complexities of U.S. refrigerant regulations, including the upcoming Technology Transitions Rule and the Chronically Leaking Appliance Rule. This essential conversation is packed with insights for both residential and commercial refrigeration professionals, focusing on compliance strategies, emerging challenges, and actionable advice to navigate the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Key Takeaways: Understanding New Regulations: The Technology Transitions Rule introduces global warming potential (GWP) limits for refrigerants based on equipment type and dates, adding layers of complexity for manufacturers and technicians alike. The Chronically Leaking Appliance Rule now applies to HFC appliances with 15+ pounds of refrigerant, mandating strict compliance by January 2026. Clarity on Compliance: Different regulations and compliance dates apply to pre-charged packaged units versus field-installed systems. Miscommunication and misinformation are prevalent, particularly in residential settings, where homeowners may be misled about mandatory changes. The Importance of Education: Refrigeration professionals must prioritize self-education to avoid costly mistakes. Resources like Refrigerant Management Solutions' training programs and fact sheets help simplify complex regulatory requirements. Actionable Insights for Technicians: Understand the difference between manufacturing and installation compliance deadlines. Recognize the importance of accurate record-keeping to ensure regulatory compliance. FOLLOW OUR GUEST, KEILLY WITMAN: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keillywitman/ Website: https://dcerms.com/about-us/keilly-bio/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/FOLLOW DID YOU KNOW - THE ESCO HVAC PODCAST ON: ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/

    30 min
  2. Carbon Monoxide Safety Training for HVAC Pros with UEi Tools with Michael Kane & Louise Kellar

    DEC 13

    Carbon Monoxide Safety Training for HVAC Pros with UEi Tools with Michael Kane & Louise Kellar

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck speaks with Michael Kane, President of UAE and Chairman of Kane Group, and Louise Kellar from UEi Test Instruments about carbon monoxide (CO) safety and industry advancements. The conversation highlights the critical importance of proper combustion analysis, the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, and how contractors can play a vital role in ensuring consumer safety. They also discuss the UK's regulatory framework for CO safety and the strides being made in the U.S. toward awareness and training. Key Takeaways: Carbon Monoxide Awareness: CO exposure can cause long-term health issues or fatalities, even at low levels. The National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association is working to increase education and regulatory frameworks. Awareness campaigns are helping to shift perspectives, emphasizing CO’s cumulative and invisible dangers.International Perspectives: The UK mandates certifications for technicians and standards for combustion analyzers to prevent CO poisoning, unlike the U.S., which lacks such comprehensive regulation. Proper certifications and regular analyzer tuning are crucial for effective CO monitoring.Industry Trends and Opportunities: Economic shifts are leading contractors to focus more on service and less on equipment replacement. Incorporating CO monitoring into standard procedures presents an opportunity to build trust and relationships with customers. Proper training and consistent service practices are key to protecting consumers.Tools and Best Practices: Portable CO detectors and combustion analyzers are essential for contractors. Regular calibration ensures they meet manufacturer specifications. Contractors can adopt low-cost solutions to avoid CO-related risks entirely FOLLOW Louise Kellar ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-kellar-bbb659101/ FOLLOW Michael Kane ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kane-84673a119/ \ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727a FOLLOW THE ESCO PODCAST ON: ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/

    24 min
  3. Cold-Climate Heat Pumps for HVAC Professionals to Transform Energy Efficiency with David Rames

    DEC 11

    Cold-Climate Heat Pumps for HVAC Professionals to Transform Energy Efficiency with David Rames

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck chats with David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea America/Group, about the transformative advancements in heat pump technology. They explore the performance of cold-climate heat pumps, including groundbreaking vapor injection technology, innovative compressor designs, and adaptive features like auto-voltage detection. David shares insights from projects like the Alaskan Willow Ranch retrofit, where Midea’s systems replaced outdated fossil-fuel heating with next-gen heat pumps capable of thriving in extreme climates. Key Takeaways: Cold-Climate Performance: Midea’s heat pumps achieve remarkable efficiency even at sub-zero temperatures, with advanced compressors providing up to 118% heating capacity at -15°F.Vapor Injection: This innovative process enables heat extraction from frigid outdoor air to maintain indoor comfort, revolutionizing heat pump performance.Envelope Optimization: Proper heat load calculations, equipment sizing, and building shell improvements are essential for maximizing efficiency and comfort.Auto-Voltage Detection: Midea’s new air handlers adapt seamlessly to 115V or 208V inputs, simplifying retrofits and eliminating the need for costly electrical upgrades.Training and Support: Midea prioritizes education and collaboration, offering hands-on training for contractors and industry professionals to ensure smooth technology adoption.Alaska Project: The retrofit at Willow Ranch, Alaska, demonstrated Midea’s ability to eliminate fossil fuel dependency and deliver consistent comfort in extreme conditionsFOLLOW THE GUEST ON: David Rames LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-rames-06742814/FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/Follow Did You Know - The ESCO HVAC Podcast on: ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/escogroup/

    24 min
  4. Cold-Climate Heat Pumps for HVAC Professionals to Transform Energy Efficiency with David Raines

    DEC 6

    Cold-Climate Heat Pumps for HVAC Professionals to Transform Energy Efficiency with David Raines

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck chats with David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea America/Group, about the transformative advancements in heat pump technology. They explore the performance of cold-climate heat pumps, including groundbreaking vapor injection technology, innovative compressor designs, and adaptive features like auto-voltage detection. David shares insights from projects like the Alaskan Willow Ranch retrofit, where Midea’s systems replaced outdated fossil-fuel heating with next-gen heat pumps capable of thriving in extreme climates. Key Takeaways: Cold-Climate Performance: Midea’s heat pumps achieve remarkable efficiency even at sub-zero temperatures, with advanced compressors providing up to 118% heating capacity at -15°F.Vapor Injection: This innovative process enables heat extraction from frigid outdoor air to maintain indoor comfort, revolutionizing heat pump performance.Envelope Optimization: Proper heat load calculations, equipment sizing, and building shell improvements are essential for maximizing efficiency and comfort.Auto-Voltage Detection: Midea’s new air handlers adapt seamlessly to 115V or 208V inputs, simplifying retrofits and eliminating the need for costly electrical upgrades.Training and Support: Midea prioritizes education and collaboration, offering hands-on training for contractors and industry professionals to ensure smooth technology adoption.Alaska Project: The retrofit at Willow Ranch, Alaska, demonstrated Midea’s ability to eliminate fossil fuel dependency and deliver consistent comfort in extreme conditions.FOLLOW THE GUEST ON: David Rames LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-rames-06742814/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/Follow Did You Know - The ESCO HVAC Podcast on: ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/escogroup/

    24 min
  5. How to Diagnose and Optimize Inverter HVAC Systems with Bryn Rabtor & Paul Chaves

    NOV 29

    How to Diagnose and Optimize Inverter HVAC Systems with Bryn Rabtor & Paul Chaves

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck sits down with Bryn Raptor and Paul Chavez from Mitsubishi Electric Trane to delve into the intricacies of inverter diagnostics. They discuss the fundamental principles of inverter technology, including the conversion of AC to DC voltage, the role of IGBTs in simulating AC waveforms, and the importance of balanced voltage. The trio also explores practical tips for diagnosing inverter systems, such as checking DC voltage, verifying AC voltage on the compressor, and understanding the behavior of ECM motors. Key Takeaways: Inverter Basics: Inverter technology involves converting AC to DC voltage, cleaning it up, and then simulating AC waveforms to control the compressor's speed and efficiency.Component Checks: Verifying DC voltage, checking AC voltage on the compressor, and using an inverter checker or multimeter to assess IGBT functionality are crucial steps in diagnosing inverter systems.Compressor Diagnostics: While inverter compressors operate on simulated AC voltage, traditional methods like checking for shorts and grounds can still be applied.ECM Motors: These motors require constant voltage and a variable voltage signal for speed control.Low-Voltage Communication: The outdoor unit supplies 24V DC to the indoor unit for communication. The indoor unit responds with a 12V DC signal, creating a fluctuating voltage between 12V and 24V. FOLLOW THE GUEST ON: Paul’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-chaves-41738a33/Bryn’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryn-rabtor-a33a4b275/Mitsubishi Electric Trane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metushvac/Mitsubishi Electric Trane Website: https://metahvac.com/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/

    27 min
  6. Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    NOV 22

    Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck hosts a conversation with Chris Army from Johnson Controls. Chris Army is a seasoned professional at Johnson Controls, bringing years of expertise in HVAC and refrigeration systems. They explore the evolving landscape of HVAC and refrigeration training, focusing on how technology, hands-on learning, and innovative programs like the Ducted Systems Academy are shaping the future. Chris shares insights on adapting to generational learning styles, integrating cutting-edge technologies like VR and AI, and bridging the gap between traditional mechanical skills and modern technical expertise. Key Takeaways Adapting to Generational Learning Styles: The importance of understanding the tech-savviness of Generation Z and Generation Alpha and leveraging their skills to advance in the HVAC industry.Hands-On Training Programs: Johnson Controls’ Ducted Systems Academy offers comprehensive programs like Tech Foundry to upskill technicians through hands-on and online learning.Embracing Technology: How VR, AI, and other emerging technologies are transforming training methodologies and helping technicians adapt to modern HVAC systems.Partnership with Educators and Contractors: Collaboration with vocational schools, state programs, and contractors to integrate advanced training resources into classrooms.Energy Efficiency Focus: How the HVAC industry is adopting innovative solutions to improve efficiency, drawing parallels to advancements in the automotive sector. FOLLOW CHRIS ARMY ON : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-army/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/SWChrisArmy/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727a Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/ Follow the Did You Know? - The ESCO HVAC Podcast on: ESCO HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/escogroup/

    22 min
  7. Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    NOV 22

    Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck hosts a conversation with Chris Army from Johnson Controls. They explore the evolving landscape of HVAC and refrigeration training, focusing on how technology, hands-on learning, and innovative programs like the Ducted Systems Academy are shaping the future. Chris shares insights on adapting to generational learning styles, integrating cutting-edge technologies like VR and AI, and bridging the gap between traditional mechanical skills and modern technical expertise. Key Takeaways Adapting to Generational Learning Styles: The importance of understanding the tech-savviness of Generation Z and Generation Alpha and leveraging their skills to advance in the HVAC industry.Hands-On Training Programs: Johnson Controls’ Ducted Systems Academy offers comprehensive programs like Tech Foundry to upskill technicians through hands-on and online learning.Embracing Technology: How VR, AI, and other emerging technologies are transforming training methodologies and helping technicians adapt to modern HVAC systems.Partnership with Educators and Contractors: Collaboration with vocational schools, state programs, and contractors to integrate advanced training resources into classrooms.Guest Background Chris Army is a seasoned professional at Johnson Controls, bringing years of expertise in HVAC and refrigeration systems. At the Ducted Systems Academy, he focuses on developing training programs that combine technical and mechanical skills with advanced technologies. FOLLOW CHRIS ARMY ON : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-army/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/SWChrisArmy/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/?_rdrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/Follow the ESCO Podcast on: Esco HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/escogroup/

    22 min
  8. Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    NOV 22

    Why Hands-On Learning is the Key to HVAC Success with Chris Army

    👉 Get access to the FREE High-Performance Heat Pump Trial course here: https://bit.ly/highperformanceheatpumptrial In this episode of the Did You Know Podcast, Clifton Beck hosts a conversation with Chris Army from Johnson Controls. They explore the evolving landscape of HVAC and refrigeration training, focusing on how technology, hands-on learning, and innovative programs like the Ducted Systems Academy are shaping the future. Chris shares insights on adapting to generational learning styles, integrating cutting-edge technologies like VR and AI, and bridging the gap between traditional mechanical skills and modern technical expertise. Key Takeaways Adapting to Generational Learning Styles: The importance of understanding the tech-savviness of Generation Z and Generation Alpha and leveraging their skills to advance in the HVAC industry.Hands-On Training Programs: Johnson Controls’ Ducted Systems Academy offers comprehensive programs like Tech Foundry to upskill technicians through hands-on and online learning.Embracing Technology: How VR, AI, and other emerging technologies are transforming training methodologies and helping technicians adapt to modern HVAC systems.Partnership with Educators and Contractors: Collaboration with vocational schools, state programs, and contractors to integrate advanced training resources into classrooms.Energy Efficiency Focus: How the HVAC industry is adopting innovative solutions to improve efficiency, drawing parallels to advancements in the automotive sector. FOLLOW CHRIS ARMY ON : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-army/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/SWChrisArmy/ FOLLOW OUR HOST CLIFTON BECK ON:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/🎙️clifton-beck-📽️-csme-45aa727aFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/clifton.beck.5/?_rdrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonraybeck/Follow the ESCO Podcast on: Esco HVAC Website: https://www.escogroup.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escogroup/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escoinstitute/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/escogroup/

    22 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The ESCO Institute "Did you Know?" podcast provides HVACR professionals access to reliable, up-to-date, and relevant information, directly from trusted sources. The world of HVACR has been changing at an exponential rate over the last few years; new SEER ratings, flammable refrigerants, and an array of technological advances. Keeping up with all the changes in regulation, manufacturing, refrigerants and how to properly prepare students and technicians has became daunting. Many of our guests are speakers and exhibitors at the HVAC EXCELLENCE National HVACR Education Conference and represent every sector of the HVACR industry. Thanks for joining in!

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada