In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversations with Jim Fultz, National Technical Training Manager at Copeland, and Joshua Souders, Manager Product Management at Copeland, about airflow, static pressure, and modern diagnostic tools. In Part 2, they talk about how AI and smart technology are changing the HVAC industry. They explain how tools like Scout AI give technicians fast access to accurate product data, helping them find parts, check specs, and work more efficiently on site. The discussion also covers how connected equipment and predictive monitoring are starting to detect issues early and support better service decisions. Gary, Jim, and Joshua share their thoughts on whether AI could replace technicians and agree that it will only support their work, not take their place. They also talk about how homeowners may try simple fixes, but most will still rely on skilled professionals for safe and reliable service.

Gary, Jim, and Joshua discuss how AI tools and connected systems are improving efficiency for HVAC technicians. They explain how Scout AI gives quick access to compressor data, parts, and local availability, helping techs save time on the job. The conversation also covers how smart equipment and sensors can detect issues early and send alerts for possible failures. They talk about how AI may support faster diagnostics but still relies on a technician's skill to confirm problems. They finish by explaining that while some homeowners may try simple fixes, most will still depend on trained professionals for safe and reliable service.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI tools like Scout AI help technicians quickly find compressor data and correct parts.

• How using mobile apps can improve speed and efficiency while working on-site.

• How connected equipment can detect issues early and send alerts about system problems.

• Why AI is a support tool that helps guide troubleshooting, not replace technician skills.

• Most homeowners still rely on professionals, even as information and tools become easier to access.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad

[00:42] - Intro to Jim Fultz and Joshua Souders in Part 02

[02:27] - Scout AI: Uses Copeland's internal documents, not the web

[04:57] - Gary's story: Finding a crankcase heater part number via app

[09:07] - Will equipment predict failures and auto-alert technicians?

[12:44] - Will homeowners use AI to DIY and skip technicians?

[15:56] - "AI is a tool, not a solution" - can't replace human senses

[19:10] - Oil change analogy (most hire pros)

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guests Jim Fultz and Joshua Souders on:

LinkedIn - Jim Fultz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdfultz/

LinkedIn - Joshua Souders: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/

LinkedIn - Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

LinkedIn - HVAC Know It All Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow the Podcast on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with TJ O'Connor, President at Farmington Consulting Group to discuss key findings from the latest Contractor of the Future Report. Based on insights from more than 1,000 HVAC contractors across the United States, TJ shares what top-performing companies are doing differently when it comes to sales, marketing, customer experience, and business operations. From proposal strategies that increase close rates to marketing investments that drive growth, this conversation is packed with actionable business advice for contractors at every stage.

TJ O'Connor is a leading industry analyst focused on the HVAC channel. Through Farmington's annual Contractor of the Future Report, TJ works closely with contractors, distributors, and manufacturers to uncover trends, best practices, and strategies that help HVAC businesses grow profitability and stay ahead of industry changes.

- Why the most successful HVAC contractors focus as much on business operations as technical expertise

- How offering four or more proposal options can significantly improve close rates

- The relationship between marketing investment and business profitability

- Why tracking marketing performance is essential for sustainable growth

- How Google Business Profiles and online reviews influence lead generation

- The importance of choosing profitable jobs instead of simply chasing volume

- Why premium customers often create more long-term value than price-focused customers

00:00 - Introduction

01:14 - Contractor of the Future Report

02:35 - How Farmington Collected Data from Over 1,000 HVAC Contractors

04:18 - What the Top 10-15% of Contractors Are Doing Differently

06:33 - Why Offering More Proposal Options Increases Sales

09:40 - Moving Beyond Good-Better-Best Pricing Models

11:34 - Should Contractors Walk Away from Certain Jobs?

14:18 - Building a Consistent Year-Round Marketing Strategy

19:05 - The Most Effective Lead Generation Channels in HVAC

20:15 - Using Social Media and TikTok to Grow an HVAC Brand

22:12 - Why Some Customers Create More Long-Term Value Than Others

23:38 - Maintenance Plans, Referrals, and the Lifetime Value of Premium Clients

Follow our Guest TJ O'Connor:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjoconnorfcg/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/farmington-consulting-group/

Company Website: https://farmingtonconsulting.net/

Follow Gary McCreadie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow Furman Haynes:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Jim Fultz, National Technical Training Manager at Copeland, and Joshua Souders, Manager Product Management at Copeland, to talk about how AI is starting to impact the HVAC industry and how technicians can use it in their daily work. They explain that AI is a helpful tool, not a replacement for skilled workers, and highlight how it can improve efficiency in both the field and the office. The conversation covers how AI gathers information, its limits in troubleshooting, and the importance of understanding where answers come from. Gary, Jim, and Joshua also discuss real examples, tools like Copeland's Scout AI, and how new technicians can use AI to learn faster while still building strong fundamentals.

In this conversation, Jim and Joshua explain how AI is being used in the HVAC industry and how technicians can apply it in their daily work. They describe how AI gathers information from different sources and can help with troubleshooting, while still depending on the quality of the input it receives. Jim, Joshua, and Gary discuss tools like ChatGPT and Copeland Scout AI, along with real examples of using AI to solve field problems. They also cover how AI can improve efficiency in the office and field, and how technicians should use it as a support tool while continuing to build strong knowledge and skills.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is being used in the HVAC industry and why it is becoming more common.

• How tools like ChatGPT and Copeland Scout AI can help with troubleshooting.

• How AI gathers information from sources like forums, videos, and online discussions.

• How technicians can use AI to improve efficiency in both field and office tasks.

• How to use AI as a support tool while still building strong technical knowledge.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters

[00:42] - Intro to Jim Fultz and Joshua Souders in Part 1

[02:26] - AI in HVAC - controversial but inevitable

[02:59] - AI is only as good as its input data

[05:32] - AI is a tool - learn it or fall behind

[07:46] - Used ChatGPT to solve a real burst pipe investigation

[11:28] - AI scours forums & Reddit for answers instantly

[15:53] - How can new techs use AI instead of calling the boss

[20:38] - Copeland's Scout AI - voice-powered lookups in the field

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guests Jim Fultz and Joshua Souders on:

LinkedIn - Jim Fultz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimdfultz/

LinkedIn - Joshua Souders: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/

LinkedIn - Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow the Podcast on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455

In Part 2 of this Mental Health series episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Gerry Wagner, President of Education, Services & Products Company LLC (ESPCO LLC). Gerry shares his experiences with depression, suicidal thoughts, long-term sobriety, and the challenges of maintaining mental wellness. He discusses the importance of support systems, therapy, spirituality, and setting boundaries with people who do not support personal growth and recovery. The episode highlights resilience, self-awareness, and the value of finding healthy tools to navigate life's struggles while helping others through openness and shared experiences.

Gary and Gerry discuss mental health, addiction, recovery, and personal growth in the trades. Gerry speaks openly about his experiences with alcoholism, depression, suicidal thoughts, and the long journey of maintaining sobriety. They talk about the importance of support systems, therapy, spirituality, and setting boundaries with people who are not supportive of recovery. Gerry also shares how helping others, staying self-aware, and finding healthy coping tools have helped him manage life's challenges. The conversation highlights resilience, honesty, and the value of seeking help while continuing to grow as a person.

Expect to Learn:

• Why suicidal thoughts are often connected to deep emotional pain and hopelessness.

• How sobriety, support groups, and professional help can play a role in recovery.

• Why finding the right coping tools is important for managing mental health challenges.

• How spirituality and personal beliefs can provide support during difficult times.

• Why setting boundaries and surrounding yourself with supportive people can aid personal growth.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Gerry Wagner in Part 02

[02:27] - Is suicide a selfish act?

[06:02] - Openly discussing sobriety as self-therapy

[08:02] - First AA meeting: boss's shocking testimony

[11:19] - Higher power without religion

[13:45] - Imposter syndrome in men & the trades

[18:13] - Called a drunk: owning it forever

[20:09] - Cutting toxic family out for good

[25:53] - Hope this helps one person look in the mirror

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Gerry Wagner on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-wagner-1b154228/

Education, Services & Products Company LLC (ESPCO LLC): https://www.linkedin.com/company/education-services-products-company-llc-espco-llc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gerrythehvactrainer/

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Roland Ligtenberg, Co-Founder and SVP Growth & Innovation at Housecall Pro to discuss why cash flow is one of the most important factors for HVAC and home service businesses, especially in today's repair-focused economy. The conversation explores how CRMs and field service management software help contractors invoice faster, collect payments quicker, improve customer retention, and streamline operations. They also discuss the shift from replacement-heavy business models toward repair and service work, emphasizing the importance of technical training, customer experience, maintenance memberships, and operational efficiency.

Roland explains how successful contractors are adapting to a repair-driven market by improving customer experience, speeding up payment collection, implementing maintenance memberships, and leveraging technology without losing the personal touch that homeowners value.

Expect to Learn:

- Why fast invoicing directly impacts business cash flow

- How CRMs help HVAC contractors collect COD payments faster

- Why the industry is shifting from replacements to repairs

- The importance of technical diagnostics over aggressive sales tactics

- How maintenance memberships improve long-term customer retention

- Why "happy calls" can generate more 5-star reviews and repeat business

- How financing options increase estimate acceptance rates

- The real impact of AI and private equity on the HVAC industry

- Why local service businesses still hold a competitive advantage

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:52 - Importance of cash flow and invoicing quickly

01:46 - How Housecall Pro helps contractors collect COD payments onsite

04:39 - Cash flow vs profit margins in small business

05:47 - Shift toward repairs over replacements

11:04 - The value of technical training and diagnostics

12:01 - Marketing, maintenance plans, and customer touchpoints

12:27 - Why membership plans matter for long-term growth

13:02 - Refrigerant regulations and repair practices in Canada

14:36 - AI, private equity, and the future of HVAC businesses

19:19 - Rolan shares contact information and closing remarks

Want to learn how top HVAC contractors are improving cash flow, streamlining operations, and using AI without losing the personal touch? Connect with Roland Ligtenberg and discover how modern field service businesses are scaling smarter with tools like Housecall Pro.

📞 Call Roland directly: (858) 215-1512

Follow our Guest Roland Ligtenberg:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandal/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rolandal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rolandaligtenberg/

Company Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@HousecallPro

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/housecallpro/

Company Website: https://www.housecallpro.com/

Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/housecallpro/

Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/housecallpro/

Follow Gary McCreadie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow Furman Haynes:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues the Mental Health Series with Guest Gerry Wagner, President of Education, Services & Products Company LLC (ESPCO LLC). Gerry shares his personal journey through addiction, depression, and recovery, explaining how childhood trauma, low self-esteem, and learning challenges affected his mental health from an early age. He opens up about his struggles with alcohol and drugs, reaching a breaking point at age 30, and maintaining over 35 years of sobriety. Together, they discuss the impact of mental health in the trades, the importance of seeking help, and the ongoing challenge of managing depression while building a successful career and life.

This episode continues the mental health series with a conversation about addiction, depression, and recovery in the trades. Gerry joins Gary to share how childhood trauma, low self-esteem, and learning challenges shaped his early life and led him toward alcohol and drug use at a young age. He explains how addiction affected his relationships and brought him to a breaking point at age 30, which ultimately led him to seek a different path. Gerry also speaks openly about living with depression, coping with suicidal thoughts, and maintaining more than 35 years of sobriety. The conversation highlights the importance of seeking help, building healthy coping skills, and having honest discussions about mental health in the trades.

Expect to Learn:

• How addiction and depression can affect people in the trades.

• How childhood trauma and low self-esteem can shape mental health.

• Why sobriety and recovery require ongoing effort and support.

• How lack of sleep can make mental health struggles harder.

• Why seeking help and talking openly about mental health is important.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Gerry Wagner in Part 1

[03:39] - Pushback: "Soft technicians" argument addressed

[06:13] - Gerry's sobriety: March 21, 1991 & last bender

[11:18] - Rock bottom: Patricia leaves

[12:37] - Root causes: Dysfunctional family, learning disability

[18:43] - Why Gerry avoids antidepressants (fear of losing training personality)

[23:26] - Suicidal thoughts as first reaction & daily exhaustion

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at SupplyHouse!

Follow the Guest Gerry Wagner on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-wagner-1b154228/

Education, Services & Products Company LLC (ESPCO LLC): https://www.linkedin.com/company/education-services-products-

company-llc-espco-llc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gerrythehvactrainer/

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Roland Ligtenberg, Co-Founder and SVP Growth & Innovation at Housecall Pro to discuss how home service businesses scale from "one-man truck" operations into professional, systemized companies. Roland shares the origin story behind Housecall Pro, the operational bottlenecks that keep HVAC businesses stuck between $1M-$2M in revenue, and how AI-powered tools are transforming customer communication, call handling, and back-office operations for contractors. Roland also explains how AI-powered tools are changing the game for small contractors by improving customer communication, handling inbound calls, and helping business owners reclaim their time.

Over the past 13 years, Roland has helped thousands of contractors modernize their operations by replacing pen-and-paper systems with software that streamlines scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, customer communication, financing, and AI-powered automation. Roland shares firsthand insights from working with HVAC, plumbing, and electrical businesses at every stage of growth from moonlighting technicians to multi-truck operations scaling beyond seven figures.

Expect to Learn:

- Why the original "Uber for home services" model struggled in HVAC and trades

- How contractors used spreadsheets, calendars, and pen-and-paper before FSM software

- The operational bottlenecks that stop contractors from scaling past $1M-$2M

- Why answering the phone is the first major scaling challenge

- The role AI is playing in customer service and call booking

- How AI-powered office tools can improve professionalism and customer experience

- Why elite office managers remain essential even in an AI-driven future

- The importance of systems, SOPs, and repeatable workflows

- Why online reviews compound over time and become a major growth driver

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:01 – The original "Uber for home services" idea

02:50 – The evolution from pen-and-paper to digital systems

04:40 – Why many contractors still use paper systems in 2026

05:43 – How FSM software helps contractors look more professional

08:30 – Financing, customer experience, and growing a small business

09:50 – Why HVAC businesses get stuck between $1M–$2M revenue

14:26 – The importance of answering the phone quickly

15:20 – AI-powered phone answering and booking systems

20:17 – Why humans still matter in operational workflows

20:30 – Cash flow, invoicing speed, and getting paid faster

21:19 – The rise of the repair economy in HVAC

Want to learn how top HVAC contractors are improving cash flow, streamlining operations, and using AI without losing the personal touch? Connect with Roland Ligtenberg and discover how modern field service businesses are scaling smarter with tools like Housecall Pro.

📞 Call Roland directly: (858) 215-1512

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

- PartsTown: https://www.partstown.com/hvac-parts

- Podium: https://podium.com/knowitall

Follow our Guest Roland Ligtenberg:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandal/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rolandal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rolandaligtenberg/

Company YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@HousecallPro

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/housecallpro/

Company Website: https://www.housecallpro.com/

Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/housecallpro/

Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/housecallpro/

Follow Gary McCreadie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow Furman Haynes:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Daniel Carrillo, Technical Sales and Training Expert at Airzone Control, about ducted zoning systems for VRF and inverter HVAC equipment. They discuss how Airzone controls airflow using thermostats, sensors, and modulating dampers to improve comfort and efficiency in different zones of a home or building. Daniel explains how the system avoids high static pressure by adjusting fan speed and damper positions based on demand. The conversation also covers the advantages of ducted zoning over wall-mounted systems, common problems with older zoning methods, and how proper duct design helps improve HVAC performance and airflow control.

Gary and Daniel Carrillo discuss how Airzone zoning systems work with VRF and inverter HVAC equipment to improve comfort and airflow control in homes and buildings. Daniel explains how thermostats, sensors, and modulating dampers help manage each zone without creating high static pressure in the duct system. The conversation covers how fan speed changes based on demand and why dampers stay open when there is no heating or cooling call. They also talk about the differences between ducted zoning and wall-mounted systems, common problems with older zoning methods, and how proper duct design helps improve HVAC efficiency, airflow balance, and system performance.

Expect to Learn:

• How Airzone zoning systems control airflow in different rooms using thermostats and sensors.

• How modulating dampers and inverter fan motors help prevent high static pressure issues.

• How ducted zoning systems can improve comfort and efficiency compared to wall-mounted units.

• Why older zoning systems used bypass dampers and the problems they created for HVAC equipment.

• How proper duct design and airflow control help improve HVAC performance and system balance.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad

[00:42] - Intro to Daniel Carrillo in Part 02

[02:21] - How zoning works: thermostats vs. sensors explained

[03:58] - Controlling zones via Blue Face thermostat or cloud app

[05:56] - What happens when one zone is set too cold

[07:28] - No demand = dampers open; fan stops unless constant mode on

[10:18] - Ducted zoning vs. wall mounts: regional differences

[13:03] - Old zoning problems (bypass, barometric relief) solved by ECM motors

[16:49] - How to get free system design (blueprint, zone layout, heat load needed)

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Daniel Carrillo on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-carrillo-922262305/

Airzone Control - LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airzonecontrol/

Airzone Control - Website: https://www.airzonecontrol.com/as/en/

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow the Podcast on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Daniel Carrillo, Technical Sales and Training Expert at Airzone Control, to talk about A2L refrigerants, VRF zoning, and how new mitigation standards are changing HVAC system design. They discuss the challenges of using A2L equipment in residential and commercial spaces, how zoning systems can help improve airflow and safety, and why proper training is important for contractors. The conversation also covers common installation issues, communication errors, wiring practices, and how ducted zoning systems can improve comfort, efficiency, and room-by-room temperature control.

In this conversation, Daniel and Gary discuss how A2L refrigerants are changing HVAC system design and why new mitigation standards are important for safety and airflow control. Daniel explains how zoning systems can help manage refrigerant dilution, improve comfort, and support better efficiency in VRF and ducted applications. Daniel and Gary also cover common installation issues, communication errors, wiring practices, and the importance of proper training when working with advanced zoning equipment and A2L systems.

Expect to Learn:

• How A2L refrigerants are changing HVAC equipment and installation standards.

• How mitigation standards help improve safety and refrigerant dilution in occupied spaces.

• How zoning systems can improve comfort, airflow control, and energy efficiency.

• How communication errors and wiring issues can affect VRF and zoning equipment.

• How proper training and support can help contractors work with advanced HVAC systems.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters

[00:42] - Intro to Daniel Carrillo in Part 1

[03:00] - A2L is slightly flammable, brings new regulations and mitigation standards

[06:26] - How A2L affects VRF zoning - ductwork helps comply vs. wall mounts

[09:32] - Top tech support tips: same supplier, training, don't fear calling

[11:24] - Most common field issue: communication errors from loose connections

[15:03] - Advantages of ducted zoning: fine-tuned air, no oversizing, better humidity control

[19:08] - Four-room example - each room has its own climate, unused rooms get no air

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Daniel Carrillo on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-carrillo-922262305/

Airzone Control - LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airzonecontrol/

Airzone Control - Website: https://www.airzonecontrol.com/as/en/

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

LinkedIn - HVAC Know It All Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-know-it-all-inc

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow the Podcast on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with financing expert Jonathan Fodera, President at Integrated Business Financing and Integrated Factors LLC. Jonathan explains the difference between building business credit and taking on debt, how to evaluate financing opportunities using ROI and cash flow, and why borrowing for growth is fundamentally different from borrowing to survive. The conversation explores practical HVAC examples like financing additional service vans, structuring equipment loans properly, and using financing strategically to accelerate growth. Jonathan also shares advanced insights for commercial HVAC contractors, including invoice factoring and project financing, two tools designed to solve cash flow delays caused by slow-paying commercial clients.

Jonathan Fodera is a business financing specialist focused on helping contractors and trades businesses access smarter funding solutions. He specializes in business credit building, equipment financing, invoice factoring, and project financing for service-based companies, particularly in the HVAC and construction industries.

- The difference between building business credit and borrowing money

- How to determine if financing is a smart business move

- Why ROI and cash flow are the two key financing tests

- Common mistakes HVAC companies make with debt

- When financing additional vans and equipment makes sense

- The pros and cons of leasing versus equipment loans

- How to structure financing for better tax advantages

- How financing can improve growth without damaging cash flow

[00:00] – Introduction [01:05] – Financing for HVAC and trades businesses [02:47] – When borrowing money becomes dangerous [05:56] – Equipment loans vs leasing explained [08:29] – How to know when it's time to add another truck [09:09] – The risk of long scheduling delays and lost customers [11:28] – Why HVAC owners should finance under the business, not personally [15:17] – What invoice factoring is and how it works [15:45] – How factoring helps contractors grow faster [16:15] – Understanding project financing for large commercial jobs [17:30] – Solving accounts receivable and cash flow challenges [18:40] – Why invoice factoring works

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

- PartsTown: https://www.partstown.com/hvac-parts

- Podium: https://podium.com/knowitall

Follow our Guest Jonathan Fodera:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fodera-391a98a1/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.fodera.3/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.fodera/

Company Website:

Integrated Business Financing: https://www.integratedbusinessfinancing.com/

Integrated Factors LLC: https://integratedfactors.com/

Company LinkedIn:

Integrated Business Financing: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrated-business-financing/

Company Facebook:

Integrated Business Financing: https://www.facebook.com/IntegratedBusinessFinancing/

Follow Gary McCreadie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

Follow Furman Haynes:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/