Make Trades Great Again

In this episode, Andy and Eric discuss the importance of service and maintenance in HVAC, plumbing, and equipment installation. They explore how proactive servicing can generate additional revenue, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure system longevity.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and episode overview
02:31 The revenue potential of servicing installed equipment
04:01 Common maintenance intervals for boilers and systems
07:01 Understanding system components like expansion tanks and gauges
10:02 The importance of regular filter and coil maintenance
12:58 Using remote diagnostics and connected systems
17:01 Building trust and recurring business through service
19:51 The value of proactive maintenance for customer satisfaction
22:56 Cost implications of neglecting system maintenance
25:55 Strategies for group servicing and scheduling
28:00 Final thoughts on service as a business growth tool

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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Andy shares his experience with boiler maintenance, subcontracting, and the importance of professional startup for complex HVAC systems. We explore the value of expert involvement, detailed design, and the lessons learned from real-world projects.

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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This episode explores the diverse paths young people take after high school, including college, trades, and entrepreneurship. We discuss the importance of financial literacy, the value of hard work, and how social media is changing perceptions of trades and career opportunities.

Joined by our pod-partners John Mesenbrink & Tim Ward, hosts of the Appetite For Construction Podcast

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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In this episode, Andy and Eric explore the fascinating history and ongoing renovation of a 110-year-old bank building in Missoula. They discuss the building's unique architecture, outdated plumbing systems, and innovative solutions for modern upgrades.

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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Milwaukee is expanding the lighting category again in 2026. A couple notable new lights shown this year at PIPELINE are the usb-c rechargeable clip light and flat flashlight. Hayley Stamerra, product manager at Milwaukee Tool talks all things lighting in this week's episode. 

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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Our annual trip to Milwaukee PIPELINE is always great fun. This year we talked all things Packout with product manager Nick Trawicki. 

Packout was first released in June of 2017. Since its launch, Packout has expanded to literally hundreds of products that are mostly intended to save us time on and off the job site. 

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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There are pockets of the US that are struggling, other areas that are as busy as ever. What gives? 

We want your feedback! Text, email, comment, DM! 

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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Calling all apprentices (and those training them)! 

One of our most listened to episodes went live back in April 2024 and still tallies downloads today so we decided it was time for a followup! 

We changed it up a little from our first list of 5 Things Apprentices Should Do Every Day 

Thanks for listening, have a great day! 

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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This episode aired in August '24 and had been one of our most downloaded ever, give it a listen, we hope you enjoy it. We will be back with new episodes soon! 

Ever think "If only I knew then what I know now" ?

We are so pumped to bring you this and the next episode with special Guests Heather Aune & Sheryl Mickelson, the obvious better halves of the MTGA team. 

Sheryl runs the office and a good part of the business for Mickelson Plumbing & Heating. 

Heather has done the books for both MH & Aune Plumbing & Heating for over a decade on top of her (former) day job. 

It was so cool to hear their perspectives as we consider looking back to the early days of starting our business. 

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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The guys revisit a topic they’ve been getting a lot of feedback from. It started with a recent MTGA episode titled “Eric Hates Combi Boilers”.

In this episode, Eric and Andy discuss the pros and cons of combi boilers, common issues, applications, and backup strategies for heating systems. They share insights on system reliability, application scenarios, and practical tips for homeowners and professionals.

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Eric Aune @mechanicalhub
Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb

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