In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Brent Lammert, who leads the Thermal Imaging Business Unit at Testo Instruments - North America. In part two of this insightful discussion, Brent dives deeper into the transformative applications of thermal imaging for HVAC professionals, showcasing its practical uses in diagnosing and resolving real-world challenges with speed and precision.

Gary and Brent explore specific scenarios where thermal cameras excel, such as identifying refrigerant restrictions, pinpointing hydronic system issues, and inspecting steam humidification systems. Brent also explains the role of thermal imaging during blower door tests to detect building envelope leaks and highlights the cost-saving potential for HVAC businesses using this technology.

From troubleshooting complex systems to improving customer satisfaction through faster, more accurate diagnostics, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring insights for HVAC technicians. If you’re looking to expand your toolkit and provide next-level service, thermal imaging might just be the “best-kept secret” you need to unlock.

Expect to Learn:

Thermal Imaging in Action: How HVAC professionals can use thermal cameras to identify refrigerant restrictions, ductwork inefficiencies, and equipment faults quickly and accurately.

Diagnosing Building Envelope Issues: Using thermal imaging during blower door tests to pinpoint air leaks and improve energy efficiency in homes and buildings.

Hydronic and Steam Systems: Practical applications of thermal cameras for troubleshooting issues in hydronic heating systems and steam humidification setups.

Refrigerant Leak Insights: Understanding how thermal cameras can identify refrigerant leaks by detecting temperature anomalies in unexpected areas.

Business Benefits of Thermal Tools: How thermal imaging can enhance service quality, save time, and open up new revenue opportunities for HVAC contractors.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] – Podcast Introduction & Recap of Part 1

[02:24] – Thermal Imaging for HVAC Technicians: Identifying Building vs. System Issues

[05:27] – Using Thermal Cameras to Troubleshoot Refrigeration Systems and Filter Dryers

[06:56] – Hydronic Systems: Pinpointing Zone Control Issues with Thermal Imaging

[10:07] – Can Thermal Cameras Detect Refrigerant Leaks? Brent Explains the Process

[18:29] – Thermal Imaging and Blower Door Tests: A Powerful Combination

[20:26] – Testo’s Vision: Affordable Thermal Imaging Tools for Field Technicians

[22:25] – Future Educational Campaign: Tips and Tricks for Using Thermal Cameras

[24:40] – Conclusion: Key Takeaways on the Value of Thermal Imaging and Its Impact on HVAC Workflows

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Brent Lammert on: 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brentlammert/

Testo Instruments - North America: www.linkedin.com/company/testo-usa/ 

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/