In this episode of the HVAC On Air podcast, host Tony Mormino is joined by Jason Eitel of Gil-Bar and Associates to discuss his journey from mechanical engineering into HVAC sales and the lessons he has learned throughout his career. They explore the importance of problem-solving, customer relationships, and jobsite experience in the commercial HVAC industry. The conversation also covers residential high-rise HVAC systems in New York City, the shift toward heat pumps and building electrification, geothermal applications, heat recovery strategies, and the challenges of balancing efficiency, serviceability, and occupant comfort in modern buildings. In this conversation, Jason Eitel and Tony Mormino discuss Jason’s path from mechanical engineering into HVAC sales and the lessons he has learned working in the commercial HVAC industry. They talk about the importance of problem-solving, customer relationships, and visiting jobsites to better understand challenges and find solutions. Jason and Tony also share insights on residential high-rise HVAC systems in New York City, the move toward heat pumps and electrification, geothermal applications, heat recovery, and the balance between efficiency, serviceability, and occupant comfort. Key Topics:The journey from mechanical engineering into HVAC sales and the skills needed for success.The importance of customer relationships, problem-solving, and jobsite experience in the HVAC industry.How New York City building trends are driving the adoption of heat pumps, electrification, and building conversions.The benefits and challenges of geothermal systems, heat recovery, equipment serviceability, and occupant comfort. Episode Highlights and Timestamps:[00:00] - Teaser[01:34] - Jason introduces himself as a mechanical engineer from RPI[03:12] - Supervisor asked: "Have you ever thought about being a salesperson?"[04:07] - Moved to NYC in 2000, focused on high-rise residential buildings[05:56] - Early perception of sales was negative, like a car salesman[07:19] - Clients may hate you one day and love you the next[08:49] - "What color is milk?", You need to see the problem onsite[13:35] - Market shifted from new construction to office conversions[15:53] - No new natural gas service is driving package terminal heat pumps[21:01] - Water source heat pumps lose appeal without gas boilers[25:25] - PTAC systems are less efficient but cheaper and simpler[28:01] - Serviceability matters: PTACs swap out easily[35:06] - Geothermal is rare in Manhattan, growing in Brooklyn and Queens[40:00] - Acoustics are critical, luxury apartments demand near silence[44:05] - Low-frequency compressor hum is the hardest problem to fix 📢Disclaimer: The information in this video is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be relied upon as, professional HVAC training or instruction. All HVAC work should be performed by qualified technicians in accordance with local codes, manufacturer specifications, and applicable safety standards. Ambient LLC, its affiliates, and their respective employees are not responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses that may result from the use or misuse of the information or techniques demonstrated in this video. 🔗 Follow the Guest: 👉 Jason Eitel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeitelgbi/ 🔗 Follow their Companies: 👉 Gil-Bar: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gil-bar/ 🔗 Follow our Host: 👉 LinkedIn Profile - Tony Mormino: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-mormino/ 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_mormino 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php 👉 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tonymormino 🔗Follow The Podcast: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-on-air/ 👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACOnAir 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0wcUGyeMOKA7hnkGOy3gbz?si=e0878d4ca08a4693 👉 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-on-air/id1866894292 🎙️ Hosted by Tony Mormino, tune in to HVAC On Air for the technical insights, engineering breakdowns, and professional development tools that drive our industry forward.