In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, Host Gary McCreadie Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc, shares a service call involving a Lennox rooftop unit that kept shutting down on high pressure. Gary explains how he checked the airflow, condenser, pressure switch, refrigerant pressures, contactor, filter drier, and TX valve while trying to find the restriction. He also describes how equalizing the system pressures and tapping the TX valve helped the unit start running again. The episode covers compressor pressure relief, microchannel coil limits, the use of a system lubricant, and the value of testing different solutions before replacing expensive parts.

Gary discusses a difficult service call involving a Lennox rooftop unit that kept shutting down on high pressure. He explains how he checked the airflow, condenser fan, pressure switch, refrigerant pressures, contactor, filter drier, and TX valve while searching for the cause. The episode covers how equalizing the system pressures and tapping the TX valve helped the unit run again, along with compressor pressure relief, microchannel coil limits, system additives, and the importance of trying different tests before replacing costly parts.

Expect to Learn:

• How a stuck TX valve can cause low suction pressure and high head pressure.

• Why checking airflow, fans, coils, and pressure switches should come before using gauges.

• How equalizing system pressures and tapping the TX valve helped restore cooling.

• Why compressor relief valves and contactors are important for system protection.

• How testing different solutions can prevent unnecessary and costly refrigeration repairs.

Episode Highlights:

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

[01:33] - Intro: Service call overview & 30-year career context

[03:22] - High pressure switch explained & rapid cycling issue

[05:46] - Pressure differential theory & refrigerant logging in condenser

[08:19] - Second visit: Zero low-side pressure, high-side off the charts

[11:07] - Fix attempt: Equalizing pressure & smacking TX valve works

[15:07] - Contactor replacement & SmartShot additive experiment

[19:34] - Final lesson: Don't give up, try new approaches, learn from every call

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 Host on:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

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

McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/

Shelburne Soccer Club: https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.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 Cornelio Martinez, Owner at Maize Mechanical, he shares the journey of building a successful HVAC business by focusing on relationships, strategic hiring, and long-term growth instead of chasing rapid expansion. He explains how partnerships, mentorship, and investing in apprentices helped him scale sustainably while navigating the challenges of staffing, sales, and business operations. The conversation also explores his vision for contractor co-ops, workforce development, and how small businesses can compete with large private equity-backed companies.

Cornelio Martinez is an advocate for electrification, workforce development, and sustainable business growth. After starting as a subcontractor, he strategically grew his company through partnerships, mentorship, and investing in apprentices. Today, he's passionate about helping independent contractors build stronger businesses while creating more opportunities for the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Expect To Learn:

• Why strategic partnerships can accelerate business growth.

• How to know when it's time to hire employees instead of subcontractors.

• The pros and cons of using subcontractors versus building an in-house team.

• Why investing in apprentices creates long-term business stability.

• How transparency impacts customer sales conversations.

• The biggest financial lessons every growing contractor should understand.

• How contractor co-ops could help small HVAC businesses compete with larger organizations.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

00:44 – When Is the Right Time to Hire Your Next Employee?

01:53 – Learning from Mentors and Building Strategic Partnerships

03:07 – Growing Through Relationships Instead of Marketing

03:34 – Subcontractors vs. Hiring Your Own Apprentices

04:08 – Why Investing in Employees Pays Off Long-Term

06:49 – Scaling Without Overextending Your Business

07:37 – Avoiding Technical Overload During Sales Conversations

08:59 – Selling with Logic, Emotion, and Trust

11:54 – Competing with Private Equity Through Collective Buying Power

12:38 – Streamlining Operations and Holding Contractors Accountable

13:54 – Final Thoughts

Follow our Guest Cornelio Martinez:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cornelio-martinez-38660b40/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corneliomartinez/

• Company Website: https://maizemechanical.com/

• Company Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/Maize-Mechanical/61556354961579/#

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 Director of Player Development and Head Coach at Shelburne Soccer Club and President of McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services and HVAC Know It All Inc, continues the Mental Health Series with a personal discussion about imposter syndrome, emotional struggles, and the loneliness that can come with leadership and youth coaching. Gary explains how self-doubt can affect even hardworking and successful people, and why kind words can have a lasting impact on someone's day or life. He also shares lessons from coaching youth soccer, including the idea that leaders do not always have to be nice, but they should always be kind. He discusses accountability, support systems, and the importance of listening to people who may be struggling. Gary also encourages listeners to notice small wins, keep moving forward, and find someone to talk to when life feels lonely or difficult.

This episode continues the Mental Health Series with a personal discussion about imposter syndrome, leadership, and the loneliness that can come with coaching and responsibility. Gary shares how self-doubt affects him even when others support his work, and explains how a simple kind message can improve someone's mood and outlook. He also discusses lessons from youth soccer, including the idea that leaders do not always have to be nice, but they should always be kind. Gary explains how accountability and understanding can work together when helping players, employees, or family members through difficult moments. The episode also explores the importance of support systems, noticing small wins, and finding someone to talk to when life feels lonely or overwhelming.

Expect to Learn:

• How imposter syndrome can affect hardworking and successful people.

• Why kind words can improve someone's mood and outlook.

• How leaders can be firm while still showing care and understanding.

• Why coaching and leadership can sometimes feel lonely.

• How support systems and honest conversations can help during difficult times.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Episode Intro: imposter syndrome & transformational coaching

[03:17] - Mental health struggles: obstacles, and stats on male listeners

[04:48] - Pushback against "mental health is fabricated" argument

[06:22] - Imposter syndrome: feeling undeserving despite hard work

[09:43] - Youth coaching & the transformational "player-first" approach

[11:59] - "You don't always have to be nice, but you always have to be kind"

[17:00] - The loneliness of coaching: invisible effort & lack of gratitude

[22:32] - Finding little triumphs; don't get stuck in negativity or praise

[25:13] - Importance of support systems; talking it out is therapeutic

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 Host:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

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

McCreadie HVAC & Refrigeration Services: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mccreadie-hvac-refrigeration-services/

Shelburne Soccer Club: https://shelburnesoccerclub.sportngin.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 Cornelio Martinez, Owner at Maize Mechanical, to discuss what it really takes to build a successful HVAC business from the ground up. Cornelio shares how he left the corporate world to protect his personal reputation, navigated launching a company during the COVID-19 pandemic, and strategically positioned his business around heat pumps and emerging technologies. The conversation explores business growth, networking, rebate programs, industry policy, and why intentional planning not advertising has fueled his company's success.

After years working for large HVAC companies, Cornelio launched his own business with a focus on integrity, customer relationships, and delivering exceptional workmanship. Today, he leads a growing team specializing in heat pumps, home electrification, and high-performance HVAC systems while advocating for better collaboration between contractors, policymakers, and utility programs.

Expect To Learn:

• Why Cornelio left the corporate world to build his own HVAC business

• How launching during COVID shaped his approach to business growth

• Why heat pumps became the foundation of his company's strategy

• The importance of staying ahead of industry trends and rebate programs

• Challenges contractors face with utility incentives and rebate administration

• How networking and relationships outperform traditional advertising

• Practical lessons for scaling an HVAC company through quality work and customer trust

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:57 - Why Protecting Your Reputation Matters More Than a Paycheck 03:40 - Starting an HVAC Business During the COVID-19 Pandemic 06:01 - Managing Cash Flow on Large Residential Projects 08:26 - The Heat Pump Project That Changed Everything 09:37 - Building a Business With Intention Instead of Reacting 13:17 - What Policymakers Need to Understand About Contractors 17:40 - Growing From a One-Person Shop to a Full Team 19:15 - Scaling an HVAC Business Through Quality and Trust

Follow our guest Cornelio Martinez:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cornelio-martinez-38660b40/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corneliomartinez/

• Company Website: https://maizemechanical.com/

• Company Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/people/Maize-Mechanical/61556354961579/#

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 Julian Finbow, RSE, Service Tech Support at Swegon North America, and Principal at Finbow Inc., about the different types of defrost methods used in commercial refrigeration systems. Julian explains how electric defrost, hot gas defrost, and cool gas defrost work, along with their advantages, challenges, and energy use. The conversation also covers defrost termination controls, mechanical and digital defrost time clocks, managing head pressure in large rack systems, and real service experiences showing how adjusting defrost schedules can improve temperature control and reduce frost buildup in refrigeration equipment.

Gary and Julian discuss the different defrost methods used in commercial refrigeration systems and how each one affects performance and efficiency. Julian explains how electric defrost, hot gas defrost, and cool gas defrost work, along with their benefits and challenges. The conversation covers defrost termination controls, mechanical and digital defrost time clocks, the importance of head pressure during hot gas defrost, and real field examples showing how changing defrost schedules can improve temperature control and reduce frost buildup in refrigeration systems.

Expect to Learn:

• How electric, hot gas, and cool gas defrost systems work in commercial refrigeration.

• Why defrost termination controls help improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary heating.

• How mechanical and digital defrost time clocks control refrigeration system operation.

• Why proper head pressure is important for reliable hot gas defrost in large systems.

• How adjusting defrost schedules can improve temperature control and reduce frost buildup.

Episode Highlights:

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

[00:42] - Intro to Julian Finbow, RSE in Part 02

[02:27] - Electric Defrost: Pros, cons & common drain heater failures

[06:38] - Defrost Types: Cool gas defrost & energy efficiency comparison

[08:16] - Defrost Termination: Using sensors to end defrost early & save energy

[11:56] - Head Pressure: Managing pressure during hot gas defrost in large systems

[14:08] - Troubleshooting: Adjusting defrost cycles (4 to 6 shorter ones) to fix temperature spikes

[17:02] - Increasing defrost cycles to fix -40°F freezer issue; closing

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 Julian Finbow, RSE on:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-finbow-rse-1048038b/

LinkedIn - Swegon North America: https://www.linkedin.com/company/swegon-north-america/

LinkedIn - Finbow Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finbow-inc/

Website - Swegon North America: http://www.swegonnorthamerica.com/

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-2/615679643061429/

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 Brynn Cooksey Sr, CEM, CMS. He is the Founder of Air Doctors Heating & Cooling and HVAC U (Building Scientists). He discuss the business side of home performance contracting and explains how contractors can build highly profitable businesses by focusing on diagnostics, customer education, and measurable results. The discussion explores customer qualification, maintenance retention, team training, operational systems, and the financial benefits of delivering complete solutions instead of simple equipment replacements. Brynn also shares practical advice for business owners looking to scale their companies through better processes, stronger customer relationships, and a commitment to quality.

Brynn a leading training organization focused on HVAC, building science, and home performance. With experience in both utilities and contracting, Brynn has become a respected educator and industry leader, helping thousands of contractors improve their technical knowledge, business operations, and customer outcomes through data-driven solutions.

Expect To Learn:

- Why not every homeowner is the right customer for your business

- How home performance testing creates trust and supports premium pricing

- The connection between quality installations, customer retention, and referrals

- How Brynn trains employees to embrace building science principles

- Why bigger-ticket projects can improve profitability and efficiency

- The role of processes, CRMs, and administrative systems in scaling a business

- Key hiring and financial lessons for contractors looking to grow sustainably

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:55 - Finding the Right Customers for Long-Term Success 02:10 - Building Customer Loyalty That Lasts for Generations 05:47 - Turning Expertise Into a Repeatable Business Model 08:08 - Creating a Training Culture That Scales 09:59 - Building Processes That Make Quality Consistent 10:33 - Why Bigger Tickets Create Better Business Outcomes 12:37 - Unlocking Revenue Beyond Equipment Replacement 13:19 - The Hidden Cost of Oversized Equipment 17:56 - Financial Lessons Every Contractor Needs to Learn 18:47 - Closing Thoughts

Follow our Guest Brynn Cooksey Sr, CEM, CMS:

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theairdoctor313/

Company LinkedIn:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdoctorshvacservice/

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-ubuildingscientists/

Company Website:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.airdoctorshvacservice.com/

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.hvactrain.com/

Company Instagram:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.instagram.com/airdoctorshvac

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.instagram.com/hvac_university

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 Julian Finbow, RSE, Service Tech Support at Swegon North America, and Principal at Finbow Inc., to discuss refrigeration defrost methods and why they are essential for system performance. Julian explains how frost forms on evaporator coils, the difference between normal frost and ice buildup, and why proper defrost timing is important. The conversation covers common defrost methods such as hot gas, electric, off cycle, and off time defrost, along with how humidity, door openings, and evaporator placement affect frost buildup. Gary and Julian also explore hot gas defrost, its benefits, its challenges, and why proper system design and operation are critical for reliable refrigeration performance.

In this conversation, Julian explains why defrost is needed in refrigeration systems and how frost forms on evaporator coils when they operate below freezing temperatures. He discusses the difference between normal frost, hoar frost, and ice buildup, and why proper defrost timing is important for good system performance. Julian and Gary explore topics such as off cycle, off time, electric, cool gas, and hot gas defrost, along with how humidity, door openings, and evaporator placement affect frost buildup. They also discuss how hot gas defrost works, its benefits and challenges, and why proper system design and defrost settings help keep refrigeration systems running efficiently.

Expect to Learn:

• Why defrost is needed in refrigeration systems and how frost forms on evaporator coils.

• The difference between hoar frost, normal frost, and ice buildup, and why it matters.

• How off cycle, off time, electric, cool gas, and hot gas defrost methods work.

• How humidity, door openings, and evaporator placement affect frost buildup and defrost needs.

• The benefits and challenges of hot gas defrost, and why proper defrost timing improves system performance.

Episode Highlights:

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

[00:42] - Intro to Julian Finbow, RSE in Part 1

[02:37] - Recap of Ammonia Plant Tour & Social Media Success

[04:12] - Julian's Background & Expertise

[05:48] - Defining Defrost in Refrigeration vs. Heat Pumps

[08:02] - Normal Frost vs. Problematic Ice on Coils

[10:55] - Standard Defrost Cycles: 4 Times a Day

[16:10] - Defrost on Walk-in Coolers & Mitigation Strategies

[18:26] - 5 Main Types of Defrost Explained

[21:33] - How Hot Gas Defrost Works (Pros & Cons)

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 Julian Finbow, RSE on:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-finbow-rse-1048038b/

LinkedIn - Swegon North America: https://www.linkedin.com/company/swegon-north-america/

LinkedIn - Finbow Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finbow-inc/

Website - Swegon North America: http://www.swegonnorthamerica.com/ 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 talks with Jamie Kitchen, an HVAC expert, Training and Account Manager at Danfoss about how metering devices control refrigerant flow in cooling and refrigeration systems. Jamie explains how simple restrictions like cap tubes and orifices work, then breaks down how an automatic expansion valve (AXV) holds a steady evaporator temperature and pressure for ice shavers and frozen drink machines. The conversation explores how thermostatic expansion valves (TXV) adapt to changing loads, how the sensing bulb and superheat spring balance each other, and internal versus external equalized valves. Gary and Jamie also discuss why a refrigerant distributor needs an external equalized valve, a service call on a stuck TXV at a restaurant rooftop unit, and how mentorship helps new technicians learn what textbooks miss.

Gary and Jamie discuss how different metering devices control refrigerant flow in cooling and refrigeration systems. Jamie explains how simple restrictions like cap tubes and orifices create a pressure drop, and how an automatic expansion valve holds a steady evaporator temperature and pressure for ice shavers and frozen drink machines. The conversation covers thermostatic expansion valves, how the sensing bulb and superheat spring work together, how superheat is adjusted, and the difference between internal and external equalized valves. They also talk about why a refrigerant distributor needs an external equalized valve, a real service call on a stuck TXV, and how sharing field knowledge and mentorship helps newer technicians.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI can help HVAC and home service businesses automate repetitive daily tasks.

• Why maintenance agreement scheduling can become a major challenge as a business grows.

• How AI tools can improve customer communication across phone, text, email, and social media.

• Why it is important to evaluate AI solutions based on ROI, integration, and long-term value.

• How business owners can use AI to save time, improve customer experience, and focus on growth.

Episode Highlights:

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

[00:42] - Intro to Jamie Kitchen in Part 02

[02:18] - What is an AXV & where it's used

[05:58] - How a TXV works & adjusting superheat

[07:52] - Internal vs. external equalised TXVs

[11:55] - Real service call: stuck contactor & overheated scroll compressor

[15:27] - Diagnosing a stuck TXV & getting it running

[19:07] - Filter-drier location & recommendation to replace

[21:52] - Mentorship, non-textbook fixes & closing

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 Jamie Kitchen on:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kitchen/

LinkedIn - Danfoss: https://www.linkedin.com/company/danfoss/

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-2/615679643061429/

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 Jamie Kitchen, an HVAC expert, Training and Account Manager at Danfoss, to discuss refrigeration metering devices and how they control refrigerant flow. Jamie explains what a simple restriction is, how an orifice or piston works, and how flow is set by the size of the hole and the pressure difference across it. The conversation covers capillary tubes and why they self regulate through friction and flash gas, why cap tubes clog when a system runs hot, and why suction lines are sized larger than liquid lines. Gary and Jamie also explore how outdoor weather and humidity change the load, why pistons struggle with latent cooling, and how overcharging on a hot day can flood the compressor and destroy a scroll.

In this conversation, Jamie explains what a simple restriction is and how fixed metering devices control refrigerant flow in cooling and refrigeration systems. He discusses how an orifice or piston works, how the size of the hole and the pressure difference set the flow, and how capillary tubes self regulate through friction and flash gas. Jamie and Gary explore topics such as why cap tubes clog when a system runs hot, why suction lines are larger than liquid lines, and how oil must keep moving back to the compressor. They also discuss how outdoor weather and humidity change the load, why pistons cannot adapt to latent cooling needs, and how overcharging on a hot day can flood the compressor and wreck a scroll.

Expect to Learn:

• What a simple restriction is and how an orifice or piston controls refrigerant flow.

• How the size of the hole and the pressure difference across it set the amount of flow.

• How capillary tubes self regulate through friction and flash gas, and why they can clog when a system runs hot.

• Why suction lines are sized larger than liquid lines and how oil keeps moving back to the compressor.

• How outdoor weather and humidity change the load, and how overcharging on a hot day can flood the compressor and wreck a scroll.

Episode Highlights:

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

[00:42] - Intro to Jamie Kitchen in Part 1

[02:04] - Simple Restriction (Orifice & Pressure Differential)

[02:52] - Cap Tube vs. Orifice & How Cap Tubes Self-Regulate

[06:35] - Clogged Cap Tubes: Causes (Heat & Oil Breakdown)

[09:11] - Are Cap Tubes Still Viable? (Stable Loads Like Coolers)

[12:20] - How Orifice Systems Work & Charging Challenges

[17:58] - Scroll Compressor Bearing Failure & Failure Sound

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 Jamie Kitchen on:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kitchen/

LinkedIn - Danfoss: https://www.linkedin.com/company/danfoss/

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 Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Brynn Cooksey Sr, CEM, CMS, the Founder of Air Doctors Heating & Cooling and HVAC U (Building Scientists). They explore how building science can transform an HVAC business. Drawing from his background in the utility industry, Brynn explains why many contractors focus too much on equipment and not enough on understanding the home as a complete system. The conversation covers energy audits, customer trust, home performance testing, pricing strategies, and the business advantages of moving beyond simple equipment replacements. Brynn also shares practical advice for contractors looking to differentiate themselves through diagnostics, education, and problem-solving.

Brynn is a nationally recognized educator in the HVAC industry. Before entering the HVAC business, Brynn worked in the power and utilities sector, where he gained a deep understanding of energy generation, distribution, and efficiency. Today, he is known for helping contractors adopt building science principles, home performance testing, and customer-focused solutions that improve comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.

Expect To Learn:

- The business case for offering energy audits and home performance services

- How building science can increase revenue while reducing marketing costs

- The step-by-step process behind a professional home energy audit

- Why testing and diagnostics lead to better customer outcomes than equipment-focused sales

- How contractors can gradually adopt building science without overwhelming their business

- The difference between competing on speed versus competing on quality and expertise

Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:56 - The Thermostat Scheduling Debate 03:22 - Lessons from the Utility Industry 04:43 - Solving Energy, Comfort, and Indoor Air Quality Problems 05:47 - The Business Case for Building Science 08:28 - Where Contractors Should Start with Home Performance 11:14 - Why Homeowners Need More Than Equipment Quotes 13:01 - Inside a Professional Energy Audit 14:03 - Identifying Hidden Problems Before Testing Begins 18:18 - Building a Business Around Quality Instead of Speed

Follow our Guest Brynn Cooksey Sr, CEM, CMS:

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theairdoctor313/

Company LinkedIn:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdoctorshvacservice/

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.linkedin.com/company/hvac-ubuildingscientists/

Company Website:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.airdoctorshvacservice.com/

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.hvactrain.com/

Company Instagram:

Air Doctors Heating & Cooling: https://www.instagram.com/airdoctorshvac

HVAC U (Building Scientists): https://www.instagram.com/hvac_university

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__/