Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine January 2019

News Magazine January, 2019

Arkansas’ First and Only HVACRNewsMagazine

1060

Representative Roger Lynch Files Continuing Education Bill HB1060 “A” & “B” Licensees 4 Hours Annually

ByArkansans

For Arkansans

Table of Contents

Chapter Meeting Schedule

PG 3

Feature Article : Mechanical Ventilation—Who Says So?

PG 5

Editorial & Opinion Continuing Education—It Makes Sense for Everyone

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PG 17

Employee Theft (Parish Hurley)

Tech News

PG 23

Heat Exchanger Crack Diagnosis

State, national, chapter news Representative Lynch Introduces Continuing Education Bill – HB1060 New Regulations for the New Year (Refrigerant Handling and Recordkeeping)

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PG 32

PG 34

Why You Owe It To Yourself – EMC Insurance Six Reason Your Competitors Take Credit Cards

PG 36

Rebate Programs & Incentives

PG 39

Education News Training Programs

PG 43

Recipes, eateRies, Huntin’, FisHin’ & Fun

PG 49

Chili : Nana’s Recipe

Continuing Education HB 1060

chapter meetings

Central Chapter 4 th Tuesday 6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location: Whole Hog 2516 Cantrell Road Little Rock, AR 72202

February 26 March 26 April 23 October 22 November 26

January 8 February 5 March 5 April 2 May 7 October 8 November 5 December 3

Fort Smith Chaper 1 st Tuesday

5:30 Meal : 6:00 Program Location : Golden Corral 1801 S. Waldron Road Fort Smith

Hot Springs Chapter 1 st Thursday 6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location: Smokin’ in Style BBQ 2278 Albert Pike Hot Springs North Central Chapter 4 th Thursday 6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location : Western Sizzlin’ 905 Hwy 62 – 65 North Harrison

February 12 March 12 April 9 October 8 November 12

February 28

March 28

April 25

September 26

October 24

chapter meetings

North East Chapter 3 rd Tuesday

February 19 March 19 April 16 October 15 November 19

6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location : Western Sizzlin’ 2405 East Highland Jonesboro 870/ 336 - 4417

North West Chapter 2 nd Thursday

February 13 (Wed due to Valentine’s) March 14 April 11 October 10 November 14

6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location: Golden Corral 2605 Pleasant Crossing Drive Rogers 479/986-9201 South Central/ Camden 1 st Thursday 6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location: Ouachita Partners for Economic Development 625 Adams Avenue Camden 870/ 836 - 9354

February 7 March 7 April 4

October 3 November 7

South West / Texarkana 3 rd Thursday

February 21 March 21 April 18 October 17 November 21 Call for meeting Location

6:00 Meal : 6:30 Program Location: Rotates between restaurants. Call for a meeting location. 501/487-8655

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Arkansas ASHRAE

Legislature.

Mechanical Ventilation Who Says So?!!? We’ve been informed that State HVACR Inspectors will begin checking for mechanical ventilation in new construction. While it seems like a new regulation—it is not. According to Russell Duncan, it was part of the “new” Energy Code which took effect in January 2015; however, the state inspectors have not been checking for it. After three years, it is time to begin inspecting and this has created a lot of discussion across the HVACR and home building industry. Anytime there is a new or seemingly new requirement, it is important to know “who says so” and “where did it come from.” This article may seem a little long but to know the “facts”, it takes more than a cursory look. First, there are four important entities that serve as references for regulations in the HVACR industry. Arkansas Mechanical Code, 2010 Arkansas Energy Code, 2009 ASHRAE Local Code Authorities The Mechanical Code and Energy Code have the effect of law as they are established with approval of the

provides the science behind many of the Standards which frequently become regulations. In the case of mechanical ventilation, we reference ASHRAE 62.2-2016, the most current version. In April 2014, the HVACR

License Board gave the program directions to use ASHRAE 62.2-2013 as the guide for determining appropriate and legal ventilation requirements. ASHRAE 62.2-2016 supersedes and is now the guiding Standard. Additionally, the Arkansas Mechanical Code, AMC-2010, 104.2. permits local authorities to create ordinances and codes that meet or exceed the requirements of the State Code. These also have the effect of law within the jurisdiction of the code authority issuing the ordinance. According to the Arkansas Mechanical Code-2010, AMC-2010, 401.2 Ventilation is required. “Every occupied space shall be ventilated by natural means in accordance with Section 402 or by mechanical means in accordance with Section 403.” The Arkansas Energy Code-2009, Chapter 2, Definitios, defines ventilation as “The natural or mechanical process of supplying conditioned or unconditioned air to, or removing such air from, any space.

There are two broad examples of ventilation:

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Natural & Mechanical ASHRAE 62.2-2016 2. Definitions, defines Natural Ventilation as “… ventilation occurring as a result of only natural forces, such as wind pressure or differences in air density, through intentional openings such as open windows and doors.” Natural Ventilation can be unintended as is the case with infiltration. While infiltration can supply the occupants with breathable air, it is unintentional without determined volume, unfiltered, and un- tempered. It is the intent of the Energy Code and modern building science to reduce this type of ventilation as it wastes energy and increases the utility bill. Another form of natural ventilation is the use of windows or doors. AMC 2010 B] 402.1 states, “…Natural ventilation of an occupied space shall be through windows, doors, louvers or other openings to the outdoors. The operating mechanism for such openings shall be provided with ready access so that the openings are readily controllable by the building occupants. [B] 402.2 Ventilation area required. The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated. 402.2 requires a minimum of readily controllable openings. An example: a 10 x 10 bedroom would require 4 square feet. Since the openable portion of a window is only about 50% of their gross area, the 10 x 10 bedroom window would need to be at least 8 square feet, an unusually large window for such a small room. Another section of the code,

AMC 2010 - 4.2.3 allows for combining rooms but the openings between rooms must be unobstructed and openings shall have an area not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior room or space, but not less than 25 square feet. Additionally, use of windows and doors for ventilation is only permissible if , ASHRAE 4.1.1 “…the authority having jurisdiction determines that window operation is a locally permissible method of providing ventilation and provided that at least one of the following conditions is met: 1. the building has no mechanical cooling and is in zone 1 or 2 of the climate zone map (Arkansas is in zones 3 & 4.) 2. the building is thermally conditioned for human occupancy for less than 876 h per year. (All area of Arkansas exceeds this amount by more than a factor of 3.)” Since, no area of Arkansas allows the use of windows or doors as the primary method of ventilation, mechanical ventilation is required. AMC-2010, 401.2, states,” Every occupied space shall be ventilated by natural means in accordance with Section 402 or by mechanical means in accordance with Section 403. Since, no area of Arkansas allows the use of windows or doors as the primary method of ventilation, mechanical ventilation is required.

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ASHRAE defines mechanical ventilation as “…the active process of supplying air to or removing air from an indoor space by powered equipment such as motor- driven fans and blowers but not by devices such as wind driven turbine ventilators and mechanically operated windows.” Mechanical ventilation can be ambient air or tempered as with a Energy Recovery Ventilator, ERV. Either option must be filtered. Also, Arkansas Energy Code, AEC-2009, 403.5 requires that all mechanical ventilation must be automatic or gravity dampered. It is also important to note that ASHRAE 62.2-2016 2.1 “…considers chemical, physical, and biological contaminants that can affect air quality. Thermal comfort requirements are not included in this standard.” Acceptable indoor air quality is defined as “…air toward which a substantial majority of occupants express no dissatisfaction with respect to odor and sensory irritation and in which there are not likely to be contaminants at concentrations that are known to pose a health risk.” AHRAE 62.2-2016, Definitions Mechanical Ventilation may seem counter-productive to efforts to increase energy efficiency of the dwelling. It takes us to the question of why we make houses so tight that they need ventilation. The concept of energy efficiency is to save as much energy as possible. The concept of ventilation is to provide adequate oxygen for the occupants and to remove odors, humidity, and undesirable particulate. 62.2-2016

So, while there is an obvious dialectic, understanding the intent of both energy efficiency building and ventilation can provide the homeowner with the greatest comfort, lowest utility bill, and best health and safety environment through proper design of the interrelated structural, heating and cooling, and ventilation systems. It is far better to have an intentional balance of the needs. The next questions is, “ How much ventilation air is required .” There are two determinations: 1. Measured air infiltration, “…not less than 0.35 ACH” ASRAE 62.2, Table 405.5.2, Specifications For The Standard Reference And Proposed Designs, Air Exchange Rate, states, “For residences without mechanical ventilation that are tested in accordance with ASHRAE 119, Section 5.1, the measured air exchange rate but not less than 0.35 ACH.” The AMC 2010, Table 403.3, Private Dwellings also requires 0.35 but not less than 15 CFM per person. This standard provides that the tested Natural Air Changes per Hour should be no less that 0.35. NACH is the amount of air within the home that is exchanged with the outside air each hour. The most common way of determining this rate is conducting a blower door test. The problem with using this determination is a. the test can only be performed and NACH determined after a house is built and

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b. most homes being built by the 2009 Arkansas Energy code have less, some far less, NACH than the minimum of 0.35. In a test of 50 homes, one RESNET rater found new construction homes in the less than 0.1 range. Some even lower—a factor of less than 1/3 the minimum. Even though the standard provides for a mechanical ventilation rate that combines the NACH and mechanical ventilation, ASHRAE 62.2, 4.1.2, it is impractical to design the mechanical ventilation considering the NACH since the amount cannot be determined until the structure is completed. Therefore, design of the ventilation system should provide for the total needed volume. The actual amount allowed can be dampered to combine the NACH and the mechanical if a blower door test is performed after the structure is completed. 2. Mechanical Ventilation and or Combination of NACH and mechanical The Arkansas Energy Code, Table 405.5.2, Specifications for the Standard Reference and Proposed Designs, Air Exchange Rate “…not be less than 0.01 × CFA + 7.5 × (Nbr+1) where: CFA = conditioned floor area Nbr = number of bedrooms.” For example: using a house with 2,000 square feet of conditioned space and three bedrooms. Qtot = 0.01 x CFA + 7.5 x (N br +1) Qtot = 0.01 x 2000 + 7.5 x (3 + 1) Qtot = 0.01 x 2000 + 7.5 x 4 Qtot = 0.01 x 2000 + 30

Qtot = 20 + 30 Qtot = 50 cfm

In this example the proper amount of planned mechanical ventilation is 50cfm: however, there are other standards as well. ASHRAE 4.1.1 uses the formula : Qtotal = 0.03 x A floor + 7.5 (N br +1) Where Afloor is the area of the dwelling unit floor area and Nbr is number of bedrooms but not less than one. Using the same example: Qtot = 0.03 x A floor + 7.5 x (N br +1) Qtot = 0.03 x 2000 + 7.5 x (3 + 1) Qtot = 0.03 x 2000 + 7.5 x 4 Qtot = 0.03 x 2000 + 30 Which formula should a designer use? Let’s make a comparison with these two formulas and the .35 NACH calculation. Let’s assume the house has 8 foot ceilings since this formula requires air exchange of the total volume. Qtotal = 0.35 x A floor x ceiling height Qtotal = 0.35 x 2000 x 8 Qtotal = 0.35 x 16,000 Qtotal = 5,600 CFH Since we are looking for CFM, we divide by 60. Since AMC 2010, Table 403.3, Private Dwellings states “0.35 ACH but not less than 15 per person”, the ASHRAE 4.1.1 formula comes closest to agreement. Additionally, ASHRAE 4.1 states, “A mechanical exhaust system, supply system, or combination thereof shall be Qtot = 60 + 30 Qtot = 90 cfm Qtotal = CFH / 60 Qtotal = 5,600 / 60 Qtotal = 93.3 cfm

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installed to operate for each dwelling unit to provide continuous whole- building dwelling-unit ventilation with outdoor air at a rate not less than specified in Section 4.1.1. Without doing the calculation one can also reference ASHRAE 62.2-2016, Table 4.1a

may be incorrect in some matters. It is recommended that you read the code books and references and consult with your local code official. The inspector will be more than willing to help. In summary: 1. Mechanical Ventilation is required in all Arkansas new construction homes with minor exceptions which would never be met in a primary dwelling. 2. Actual methods and products to meet the requirement can best be learned at your local distributor who carries equipment designed specifically for mechanical ventilation. 3. A contractor’s best friend and partner in serving the Arkansas consumer is the local inspector.

Well,

Since codes and standards change with each cycle, knowing what to do can be confusing. For this reason, the reader is encouraged to purchase the following: Arkansas Mechanical Code 2010 https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/doc ument/626 Arkansas Energy Code 2009 https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/doc ument/747 ASHRAE 62.2 2016 https://www.ashrae.org/technical- resources/standards-and-guidelines/read-only- versions-of-ashrae-standards This article depended on the information provided within these codes and guides; however, our interpretation

if I have

to!

I Guess I can.

It’s not that hard

“deferment” continuing education is not required. By doing so, they maintain their license and save $160 as a class “A” license and $110 as a class “B” license. (The deferment license is only $40.) Some also thought that the four hour continuing education requirement was in addition to other education they were already getting. The only possible “additional” class would two hours on code if they were not already taking code training. The two hours of code training is the most critical aspect of education and I think most companies would be glad to incorporate it into their existing training regimen. Those who misunderstood this aspect of the law are already taking lots of training and this requirement does not have to upset their commitment to their present training. Second, a commitment to less licensing and government intervention. Here is where there can be a misunderstanding between some in the legislature and me. Those legislators opposed to our bill in 2017 are committed to less regulation, less licensing, less government. Everyone should understand that I agree with them. We have too much government imposing on its citizens already. HOWEVER, the role of and

Continuing Education It Makes Sense for Everyone If you read the article about Representative Roger Lynch submitting a bill for continuing education, you know that the Association is promoting the same bill that went down in flames during the 2017 session. Why so? Well, it took two very concentrated efforts of the Association and industry back in 1989 and 1991 to get our licensing law passed. Hopefully, history will repeat itself and HB 1060 will pass during this 2019 session. Everywhere I go, the most common question about continuing education is, “Why would anyone be against it?” There are three commonly held reasons. First, they don’t understand the bill. During 2017 some very good companies took a stand against our bill because they thought that everyone in the industry would be required to take continuing education. Of course, this wasn’t so. The bill only applies to “A” and “B” licensees. Even then, a person working for a company, not doing side work, can put their license in

government is to protect the health and safety of its citizens when it is the most effective way to do so. I listened to one very sincere representative speak passionately and convincingly about his belief in consumer economic freedom. I respect him and his position even if I don’t go quite as far as he does. I hope that those legislators understand that this is not personal between them and me. It is not. Regretfully, sometimes people with opposing passionate beliefs can misconstrue the intent of the other person. Let’s look at the concept of consumer economic freedom as I understand that legislator’s position. It is the idea that a person should be able to buy whatever he or she wants from whomever they wish. I like the surface of the argument. I don’t want anyone telling me what to do with my money. On the other hand, that perspective accepts that there are some occupations that need to be licensed and regulated; i.e., doctors, pharmacists, many medically related occupations. So the discussion isn’t whether there should be no licensing or regulation but WHICH ONES. So why do most agree that doctors need to be licensed? There is an obvious ability to do harm in that profession. An opportunity to do

great benefit but, yes, the opportunity to do great harm. It just makes sense that a person desiring to be a medical doctor should be well trained, licensed, regulated, insured, and participate in continuing education. The Institute for Justice is promoting a bill that would allow some occupations to operate without a license as long as the consumer signed a disclosure statement recognizing that the tradesperson was not licensed. I don’t think they would have this concept extend to medical doctors. Again, due to the obvious potential for harm. For the same reason, I believe that the HVACR industry should be licensed, regulated, insured, and participate in continuing education. The HVACR industry may seem like good ole’ boys that couldn’t make it in college; but, that is far from the case. By the way, I throw that in because I have had more than one high school counselor suggest just that. OK, back on the subject. Why should an “A” or “B” licensee be required to have continuing education? Because our industry is constantly changing. Not just in the boxes we sell, but in the degree of potential harm we can cause. We have transitioned from butane space heaters to 90+ furnaces. Those changes brought about the need to

understand venting; first as single wall, to double wall, to PVC concentric. Each step has brought about benefits to consumers but also the opportunity for the untrained to create carbon monoxide poisoning. If that is so, why don’t we hear more about folks dying from carbon monoxide poisoning? Fortunately, most do not die but many have flue like symptoms and it can have the greatest effect on the young and the old—those segments of the population who are least like to understand their possible problem. Another reason we don’t hear about those with non-fatal carbon monoxide poisoning is two-fold; it is too easy and costs less to diagnose a runny nose and headache as the flue and there is little to no recording of this problem. We have also seen houses become really tight which has created the need for HVACR professionals to understand the house as a system with need for ventilation. Most in our profession never paid attention to the word “ventilation” in our trade label. Now we are required to be experts. It’s not just about installing a fan. It is also about knowing how much air is needed, how to design the system to work even in the transition season when little heat or air conditioning is required. So what is the malady if we

don’t do it right—mold and mildew that can cost tens of thousands to fix. It can lead to health problems. Again, the young and elderly are the most effected. If anyone needs the government to intervene and make sure a person in a trade needs a license and continuing education, it is the young and the elderly. Our profession sees shockingly bad and dangerous installations done by those without the proper training. Just because one was trained to install a butane space heater does not mean they are equipped to design and install today’s systems in today’s houses. HVACR continuing education is about consumer protection in the same way it is for a doctor. Even though my first and foremost justification for continuing education is health and safety, a well trained HVAC professional can also save the consumer tens of thousand of dollars over the life of the equipment. A properly designed and installed system operates for less. The EPA states that just duct leakage can cost a consumer up to 30% of their heating and cooling bill. It can be even higher. Even the DOE and the Arkansas Energy Office recognize the need for properly trained professionals.

A properly trained HVACR professional makes more money because they are not making, what should be, unnecessary call backs to to fix what they should have done right in the first place. A properly trained HVACR professional saves the consumer money because the consumer is not taking off work extra days to allow the technician back into the home. Additionally, the properly adjusted system cost less to operate saving the consumer tens of thousands in utility bills over the life of the equipment. A properly trained HVACR professional saves the distributor and manufacturer money because they have less unjustified warranty claims. MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL A properly trained HVACR professional provides comfort in a healthy and safe environment. This is the only reason that I feel the government should be involved and require continuing education. Yes, the government should stay out of its citizens business unless their involvement protects the consumer in a manner that is not otherwise available. That is the case with licensing and continuing education. The HVACR industry has the opportunity to provide great benefit

but also great harm; therefore, we welcome the government intervening to provide health and safety protection that can only come from a trained, licensed, and currently educated workforce. It benefits everyone.

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opportunity for the service provider to rummage through our drawers and find our spare car key. According to the experts, most people that commit fraud see themselves as victims of circumstance. No doubt, the person who stole our car rationalized their decision (the third factor) in order to justify their actions. If an employee thinks they are underpaid, they may consider the theft their “just deserves.” Perhaps, our thief’s rationale was that selling our car would enable him or her to do something worthier, even nobler, with the money, so “the ends justify the means.” How Can Theft be Prevented? My wife and I run a bookkeeping company. Now, many bookkeepers have access to their clients’ bank accounts, and the world is rife with horror stories of fraud and theft in the financial industry – bookkeepers and brokers, and the like, stealing from their companies and from their clients. We’ve heard the stories, too, and the integrity of our company, as well as the safety and trust of our clients, is of paramount importance to us. To eliminate the opportunity for theft, our policy is that we never have access to our clients’ bank accounts. If they want us to pay bills, we use a third-party service that allows us to initiate payment, but requires the client go online to give final approval. We also try to address feelings of financial burden by maintaining

Thoughts About Employee Theft Parish Hurley, Ed’s Supply A few days ago, my car was stolen

– right out of the driveway. My wife and I suspect it was stolen by the employee of one of

our service providers who was working at our home at the time of the theft. This led me to think about our own business, and your business, and how we as business owners can go about managing the risk of employee theft. Why Do Employees Steal? Ultimately, I think this comes down to three key factors. The first is an obvious one: financial pressure , be it due to gambling and other addictions, or something more altruistic such as the need to care for an ill family member. If an employee feels they cannot confide their hardship, or that that confession will fall on deaf ears, they may be driven to theft. If financial pressure is the motivation, then the next factor is the enabler: opportunity . This boils down to trust, and whether someone has unsupervised access to valuable goods or information. For example, when our car was stolen, I was at work and my wife was at home but upstairs. There was ample

constant communication with our associates. We regularly ask probing questions, such as how they feel about compensation and their quality of life. By showing care and interest, we build trust. It keeps us aware of what’s going on in the lives of our associates, and hopefully makes them less likely to keep their hardships a secret, or to see themselves as a victim. What You Can Do Today As clients, we were extremely disheartened that an associate of a known and trusted service provider chose to steal from us. As business owners, we’d be mortified if one of our employees similarly violated a clients’ trust. But, we also understand the challenge that our service provider and other business owners, such as yourself, face in tackling this issue. Ask yourself, are you managing the risk of your employees stealing from you or from your clients? Have you even thought about it? If you haven’t, here are three actions you can take to start this process: 1. Have a deep conversation with each of your employees. Start with one employee today, and another tomorrow. Keep going until you’ve spoken to everyone, and then repeat. Demonstrate your attention and care not only for what they do, but also for who and how they are. Ask if they are enjoying their employment, if they feel like there are being

treated and compensated fairly, and if they’re facing any pressures at work or in life that are overwhelming. 2. Think through your entire workflow. If you were an employee working for you, what opportunities would you have to steal? Go step by step, identify areas of risk, and put processes in place to manage or eliminate those risks. 3. This one is tough, but if you can be honest about it, it will be invaluable. After you’ve identified opportunities to steal, ask yourself what rationalizations or justifications you might make for that theft if you were an employee? Figure out what disgruntlement underlies that rationalization and address it. There are plenty of other things to consider. How do you heal the relationship with your client if a theft does occur? How do you guard against theft without making employees feel distrusted? These are relevant and valuable questions, but I firmly believe that addressing the motivation, opportunity, and justification of employee theft will help you find solutions suited to your business.

It’s just a customer, a contactor, some refrigerant. It’s not theft

http://www.edssupply.com/arkansas

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2018 Code REgulation Legislation

Free Public Access to Arkansas Codes from International Code Council These are non-printable PDF files. Assess these codes through the following web site: https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/collections/AR You can purchase these code books at http://shop.iccsafe.org/state-and-local-codes/arkansas.html

Remember that the Arkansas Mechanical and Energy codes have limited amendments to information that you may find in these books. Also, local city code authorities may have more stringent regulations than those adopted by the state. It is always the best policy to consult your local authority/inspector for clarification on issues or topics of concern.

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HEAT EXCHANGER CRACK DIAGNOSIS Article Furnished by Bryan Orr, There are two camps I’ve run into regarding cracked heat exchanger diagnosis. Those who look for it everywhere and those who dismiss it and never look. I will start by saying that everything I write here is my own opinion and experience. Because this is such a hot button topic don’t take my word for any of this, follow manufacturer, industry standards and codes and obviously stop reading unless you are a trained and licensed professional. Heat exchanger cracks are worth finding but they aren’t the most dangerous issue for your customers in most cases The reason I make this blasphemous statement is twofold. 1. Many heat exchangers are at a negative pressure in reference to the air moving over the exchanger. This means that the air from the return will move into the exchanger rather than combustion gasses moving into the airstream. 2. So long as the combustion process is complete there won’t be significant CO ( Carbon Monoxide) in the flue; but, let’s be clear… If there are any cracks in an exchanger it needs to be replaced,

there should NOT be cracks in a heat exchanger. The trouble comes in when we think that looking for cracks in the only or even primary method of finding CO issues with a furnace. When we rely on our eyes to find every issue we can easily miss problems (including cracks) that our eyes can’t see. So here are my suggestions on how to find cracked heat exchangers and other furnace safety issues. Ambient Carbon Monoxide One of the first things you should do is measure ambient CO in the conditioned space while the heat is running with either a combustion analysis tool or a personal CO detection device. Anything other than ZERO ambient carbon monoxide is worth investigating. Sure, smoking indoors or cooking can increase

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ambient CO above zero but when you see it take the time to INVESTIGATE. Flame Displacement One of the oldest ways to check for heat exchanger cracks is to simply observe the flame when the blower starts. Most furnaces will have a blower delay to get the furnace up to temperature before moving air over the exchanger. This procedure is as simple as watching the flame and observing if it the flame moves or changes when the blower starts. Because the burner and heat exchanger is isolated from the airstream there should be no change in the flame when the blower starts. If there is you need to begin looking for connection or leakage between the burner/heat exchanger and the air. won’t necessarily tell you if you have an exchanger leak but it will tell you if you have a high CO which can help you prevent a dangerous situation for your customers if there is an exchanger crack. Exchanger Isolation Pressure Test When you suspect the system may have an exchanger leak you can place a manometer probe in the exchanger and seal off the inlet/outlet of the exchanger as best you can (with the gas shut off obviously). Next, turn on the blower and see if there is a change in the Combustion Analysis Testing combustion

exchanger. Any change is an indication of a heat exchanger leak. Visual inspection In some cases, an old- fashioned visual inspection makes the most sense, either by removing the blower or the high limit (or both) and using a mirror or borescope to inspect. When you do find a cracked exchanger it should be quoted for repair and the furnace turned off. While finding cracked exchangers is worthwhile I would place it below or on par with other things like – • Testing for spillage due to depressurization in the combustion air zone • Insufficient Combustion Air • Blocked intake and/or exhaust • Recirculation of combustion products into intake vents or soffits • Gas pressure testing / clocking the meter for overfiring or underfiring • Testing heating airflow • Testing for CO in the occupied space • Visual inspection of vents, flues, and chimneys for proper installation as well as gaps and cracks • Visual inspection for return gaps pulling in air around the furnace When you do find exchanger cracks on newer units you need to also look for causes like low airflow, incorrect orifice size or over firing that could have caused the issue.

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Keep your eyes open and don’t get fixated on a single issue to keep your customers safe. While you are at it read this great combustion guide from Accutools and Jim Bergmann. — Bryan Article was originally printed in HVAC School For Techs by Techs. Bryan Orr offers a daily article on a plethora of issues that are important to our industry. You can find him at https://hvacrschool.com/

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The link for this article is https://hvacrschool.com/heat-exchanger-crack-

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Representative Roger Lynch Files Continuing Education Bill HB1060 “A” & “B” Licensees 4 Hours Annually Repr sentative Roger Lynch Files Co ti uing Education Bill HB1 60 “A” & “B” Licensees 4 Hours Annually

It’s 2019 and the legislature gavels into session on Monday, January 14. Representative Roger Lynch, District 14 filed a Continuing Education bill which will require 4 hours of continuing education to renew an “A” or “B” HVACR license. The logic behind the requirement for only “A” or “B” licensees is this: 1. “A” & “B” licensees are the only ones permitted to design and install heating and cooling systems for homeowners. 2. They are the ones responsible for proper design and installation of residential systems. 3. As the person responsible for residential installations, they need to be current on new code and technical information. 4. They can pass along what they learn to their employed registrants who do much of the actual installation work. 5. This “train the trainer” concept saves money for business, licensees, and, by extension, homeowners. Since many HVACR companies have multiple “A” and “B” licensees working

within the company, the questions is, “How many of those licensees would be required to complete the four hours of training? The answer is “all” “A” and “B” licensees with an active license are required to complete the training. If a company has more than one active licensee, all but one can put their license in deferment. This is an excellent savings to the licensee as the deferment license is only $40 compared to $200 for an active “A” and $150 for an active “B”. Unless the licensee does side work, (a policy frowned on by most companies and forbidden by some), there is no need for the extra licensee to carry an active license. The only caveat is to bring their license out of deferment every 5 years and then, after one year, put it back in deferment for the next four years. Over a period of 5 years the “A” licensee can save $640 and the “B” $440. Pulling it out of deferment every 5 years is painless as no test is required. Remember, a company with one or 150 employees is required to have only one active “A” or “B” licensee.

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How does one get the four hours of continuing education? This is the unique part of this bill. It is designed to be effective but easy for the licensee. Let’s look at this:

Third! What training is required? Training is divided into two parts. A. two (2) hours of code training and B. two (2) hours of technical or business training. C. A third option allows a person to take all (4) hours in code training if that is preferable to the licensee. Code training will be determined by the Arkansas HVACR Licensing Board. Common code infractions and new code will be addressed. Education is the least expensive and best method of regulation and consumer protection. This training will save contractors and homeowners the headache of good guys doing bad things because they did not know. Two hours of technical or business education is the maximum the law will require; however, this is such a bare minimum. Distributors and manufacturers offer much more each year. Colleges will gladly offer continuing education classes to help the industry and to attract licensees to their for credit, non-credit, and apprenticeship programs. It is just good industry relations. The Association already offers seminar style classes in eight chapters, five times per year and stands ready to create more chapters and more education. The Association mission is to serve the educational needs of the HVACR industry and not just the members of the Association but of the

First! Who Can Offer the Training?

( A) State, county, or municipal inspectors or other state approved officials; (B) Equipment and supply distributors and manufacturers; (C) Colleges and other institutions of education, including state, for-profit, and nonprofit organizations; and (D) Trade organizations involved in the HVACR industry. manufacturers, colleges, training institutes, and trade organizations are all available to offer classes. Distributors and manufacturers are especially interested in training because it brings down the number of warranty claims. Second! Where can I get this training? There are 17 community and technical colleges, at least 10 distribution centers and 8 Association chapters in the state. Each is willing to offer classes at minimal to no cost to the licensee. There are over 284 local inspectors in 134 cities that can offer code training at facilities donated by the colleges and distributors. Training will be “local”, readily available, and affordable. Distributors,

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entire industry. As the entire industry becomes more informed, consumers benefit. Continuation education classes already blanket the state and a continuing education requirement will create even more opportunities. (3) The board shall promulgate rules to assess a fee of five dollars ($5.00) per hour of continuing education to be used to maintain the continuing education program. The law allows the HVACR program to charge $5 per hour for a total of $20. This pays for the administrative cost of maintaining the continuing education program. The cost of the classes will vary depending on who is offering the class and the scope of the class. There will be plenty of classes for free or the cost of refreshments. Distributors have long made a minimal charge because of perception. Strangely, people frequently do not attend a class that is free because there is no perception of value. With the advent of required continuing education, the value is established without a fee. (3) Beginning July 1, 2020, all applications for renewal shall 2 be accompanied by proof of completion of the continuing education program required under this section. The law is effective July 1, 2019 but licensees have a full year after that date Fourth, what will this training cost? Fifth! When will the requirement begin?

to take their first four hours of continuing education. After July 1, 2020, licensees must submit proof of having taken their continuing education to renew their “A” or “B” license. How will one get proof of having taken continuing education? Details will be worked out by December 31, 2019; however, at a minimum, entities offering classes will provide the licensee with a certificate of completion. Some programs in other trades have the provider send the information to the licensing board. It will not be difficult. Education is the cheapest, most effective means of regulation and consumer protection.

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year until the owner / operator can demonstrate through the leak rate calculations that the leak rate has not exceeded 20% commercial refrigeration or 30% IPR for one year. Commercial Refrigeration and IPR with a charge of over 500 pounds must have a leak inspection conducted once every three months until the owner/operator can demonstrate through leak rate calculations that the leak rate has not exceeded 20% for commercial refrigeration or 30% IPR for four quarters in a row. All records for leak inspections, initial verification, verification tests and records of recovered refrigerant from equipment with 5 to 50 lbs. must be kept for 3 years by the owner or operator of the equipment. A Crass Commercial for the Association Why you need the Association ✓ Discounts on • Insurance • Payroll Service • Background Checks • Drug Testing ✓ 5+ Chapter Meetings per year • Informative • Educational • Networking ✓ Training ✓ Legislative Representation ✓ Regulation Representation Click For More Information

New Regulations for the New Year

2019

(Article furnished by Howard Weiss, ESCO Institute 800-726-9696)

The New Regulations for 2019 Include— Section 608 regulations include new leak inspection and verification test requirements for owners/operators. Leak inspections are required for appliances that have exceeded the applicable leak rate, per the information below. All visible and accessible components of an appliance must be inspected, using a method or methods that are appropriate for that appliance. Comfort Cooling with a charge of 50 or more pounds must have a leak inspection once per calendar year until the owner/operator can demonstrate through the leak rate calculations that the leak rate has not exceeded 10% for one year. and Industrial Process Refrigeration (IPR) with a charge of 50 to 500 pounds must have a leak inspection once per calendar Commercial Refrigeration

An important way to distinguish your company from all the other “me too” HVAC dealers is to have the best employees that can be trusted in the homes of your clients / customers. More important than cool air or warm air is the peace of mind in knowing that one’s belongings and family are safe. A tech that has passed a background check and has a company photo ID demonstrates professionalism and trustworthiness to the client / customer. Employee background checks are also important for the dealer. The dealer can manage their liability and their insurance costs by making sure that their employees have passed a background check, a drug screening test, and a driving record search. A member of the Arkansas HVACR Association can have that peace of mind by using the endorsed service, CourtHouse Concepts. Their prices are affordable and their reputation is great. Association members that are already using CoutHouse Concepts have given them a glowing recommendation. Be sure to identify yourself as a member of the Association to get a 10% discount.

Here are some plan option:

Expanded Criminal Plan $25.00

Independent Drug Testing $40

Motor Vehicle Report $19.95

*Social Security Trace – match SS# to applicant and lists addresses *Nationwide Criminal History—500 million criminal records *Nationwide Sex Offender Search *Nationwide Courthouse Check—7 yr. County Criminal History--Court Fees are additional if applicable

Amphetamines Barbiturates Benzodiazepines - Cocaine - Ecstasy - Marijuana - Methadone - Methamphetamine - Opiates – Phencyclidine

~3 years driving record Speeding & violations DWI Accidents

Hair follicle available on request (~90 days, $120)

24 to 48 hours

2 – 3 days

1 day or less

Paul J. Hickman III 3205 Shackleford Pass Little Rock, AR 72205 Main - 501-588-3973 : Direct - 501-588-7115 Toll Free - 877-750-3660

t.hickman@courthouseconcepts.com www.courthouseconcepts.com

Arkansas HVACR Association, P. O. Box 1296, Little Rock, AR 72203, 501-487-8655 : tomhunt@arhvacr.org ; www.arhvacr.org

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already satisfied with your present company? Don’t change. The Association would never ask you to do anything that is against your best interest; however, if their quote is less and you get a 10% discount, “WHY WOULD YOU NOT CHANGE?” Your changing to EMC helps the entire industry because of the financial help EMC gives the Association. How is that true? Let me be very presumptuous and say that the Arkansas HVACR Association offers benefits to its members that are unavailable elsewhere at an affordable price. 1. The Association works tirelessly on legislative and regulation issues. 2. The Association has saved the industry thousands of dollars that most will never know about. It is usually behind the scenes. Just one example. Those that attended the Manual J classes this fall were part of a $22,250 cumulative savings. 3. The Association offers training and informative sessions in each of the eight chapters during their five meetings. Three especially important examples are a. “So Called” Drop In Refrigerants b. Mechanical Ventilation c. DOT licensing surprise requirements Not to say that the others were unimportant but these really stand out. Again, these were made possible in part by EMC Insurance. So, I am not embarrassed to ask you to give EMC a shot at your business. What have you got to loose?

Why you owe it to yourself and the industry

OK! It is obvious that the Arkansas HVACR Association promotes EMC insurance. Truth is, there is something in it for us. EMC pays the Association an advertising/marketing fee that is important to the finances of the Association. BUT THAT ISN’T THE ONLY REASON! First, EMC came recommended by several HVACR companies in the Ft. Smith chapter. Why? Here are three reasons: 1. EMC is very competitive 2. EMC offers Association members a 10% discount in addition to their competitive rates 3. EMC has a record of quick and fair claims service. Second, the fee paid by EMC to the Association allows us to keep our membership dues low, only $200 per year. Most other Associations begin at $400 and go to over a thousand. Third, we sincerely believe that every HVACR contractor in Arkansas owes it to themselves to get a quote prior to their next renewal. Notice, I did not say buy from EMC. They still have to compete for your business with pricing and service. It costs noting to get a quote and the benefits can be substantial. What if they come in higher and you are