Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

News Magazine May 2024

Arkansas’ First and Only HVACR NewsMagazine

In This Issue

Richard Clark Honored for Service

• Informative • Thought Provoking

& MO

Attendees 130 EXPO 162 Chapter CE 122 Owners 16 Techs 24 Others

Richard Clark & Alan Dean

If Hiring a Good HVAC Tech is Expensive

4007 yrs total Exp

Try Hiring a Bad One

Attendee Average Experience 25 Years 1104 Total CEU Hrs

Tech News Troubleshooting Water Leaks (Bryan Orr - HVAC School) TXV Demo (AC Service Tech, Craig Migliaccio) Vacuum Moisture vs System (Byan Orr - HVAC School)

Articles of Interest EXPOs & MO 9 Richard Clark Honored for Service 10 Overtime Rules 12 FTC Bans Non-Compete 12 Mortgage Rates on the Rise — AGAIN 14 Understanding Your Work Environement 16 Nick’s Corner

PG 21

PG 24

PG 25

PG 27

Refrigerant Numbering (HVAC Excellence) CO2 as a Refrigerant (HVAC Excellence)

PG 28

PG 29

Adequate Air at a Glance (Tom Turner-Air Evangelist)

By Arkansans

For Arkansans

News Magazine May2024

Table of Contents

14

Editorial

pg 3

Pimps & Prostitutes

Continuing Education Events EXPOs and MO State, national, chapter news Richard Clark Honored for Service US Department of Labor Announces Overtime Rules

pg 9

PG 10

pg 12

pg 12

FTC Bans Non-Compete

pg 14

Mortgage Rates On Rise AGAIN

pg 16

Understanding Heat & Your Working Environment : Nick ’ s Corner

Education News Education Scholarships

PG 18

PG 19

Training Programs

Tech News

PG 21 pg 30 PG 33 pg 36 PG 24 PG 25 PG 27

Troubleshooting Water Leaks (Bryan Orr - HVAC School)

TXV Demo (AC Service Tech, Craig Migliaccio)

Vacuum Moisture vs System (Byan Orr - HVAC School)

Refrigerant Numbering (HVAC Excellence) CO2 as a Refrigerant (HVAC Excellence)

PG 28

PG 29

Adequate Air at a Glance (Tom Turner – The Air Evangelist)

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Is the system legal to install in the homeowner’s state. Who Cares! Here is what one line provider says. (Brand omitted)

Pimps & Prostitutes Well, I hope I got your attention. Not just HVAC dealers but also manufacturers and distributors as well as regulators.

“Due to new efficiency

requirements, this cannot be installed

This article is about equipment that is being sold on line to whomever has a credit card with a limit that can support the purchase. There are plenty of caveats and disclaimers but

in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas , California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.” Will the equipment be warrantied? Who Cares! The same supplier says this, “ The (name omitted) condenser comes with (name omitted) standard 10 year parts warranty with online registration through the manufacturer. A n installation that follows your state and local codes is required for the warranty to be upheld.” I added the bold less it gets missed. ” OK! That was a condenser. What about the story a homeowner gets when purchasing a furnace? What size should the homeowner buy? Who Cares! According to one online company, (name omitted) here’s all they need to know to properly size. “ BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure how much heat a furnace can produce. It is important that you choose the correct furnace size so your whole house can be efficiently and comfortably

Who Cares!

The credit card cleared and the unit has been shipped. Who will install it? — Who Cares! Will it be installed by a licensed contractor?--Who cares!

A Boa for the boys

Who will apply for the warranty? – Who Cares! Does the installer have a 608? — Who Cares! Not necessary. “ It is filled with enough refrigerant to fill a 15 foot line set. ” Does the installer know now to connect the refrigerant lines? Who Cares! “ (Brand & Model deleted) condenser comes standard with service valves that have sweat connections and easy access gauge ports, both providing a lower installation difficulty and time to lower installation costs. ”

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

them. You know that a low price on the side street of the internet is hard to resist, especially by a homeowner who only knows price. They are not the professional and should not take the responsibility for sizing, gas piping, venting, humidity control, etc., etc. We know that installing an air conditioner and furnace is a matter of health and safety. That is why we have licensing. So if it is a matter of health and safety, how can these online suppliers legally entice homeowners to buy direct and install on a hope that everything will go well. Easy! L egislators don’t know the health and safety issues and the participating manufacturers are only motivated by sales. They have pencil pushers that are the Prostitutes of our industry. Get the product out there and don’t care about the results. Sales, Sales, Sales. The online providers are the Pimps. They have no conscience and maybe don’t even understand the potential dangers to the homeowner. Of course a homeowner, we’ll call a John, deserves what they get for wandering outside the bonds of loyal consumer service. Must be true because, I have heard legislators say, “It should be buyer beware.” One thing is sure, this is a new day in the HVACR business. Loyalty is leaving or gone. Money is the primary goal. The days of dealer networks are coming to an end. Dealers say, “I sell whatever is cheapest that will get me the job.”

warmed. BTUs scale upward with house size, but please note that other factors may affect what size furnace you need. • 40,000 BTUs - Ideal for small houses • 60,000 BTUs - Ideal for small to medium size houses • 80,000 BTUs - Ideal for medium houses • 100,000 BTUs - Ideal for medium to large size houses • 120,000 BTUs - Ideal for large houses ” Contractor's Choice 1.5 Ton 14 SEER2 Central Split System Your equipment will be one of the top four major manufacturers in the HVAC industry (4 Names Omitted) By the way “Contractor’s Choice is simply for marketing purposes. It does not mean that a homeowner cannot make the same purchase. “We recommend and strongly encourage you to have the system installed by a knowledgeable professional. Regardless of who installs your equipment it must be charged and started by a licensed company or individual. It is your responsibility to be sure your equipment and supplies purchased from (name omitted) conform to local, state, federal, or Canadian codes. All installations must follow EPA regulations governing handling of refrigerant. (Name omitted) assumes no liability associated with the installation of your equipment.” I omitted names because you know the pimps and prostitutes without me naming Here’s another supplier’s Installation caution. Here’s an online spot for a supplier.

So hard to resist

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Distributors say, “I have to sell to whomever walks in the door. I just check for the 608 if I don’t know them.” Hey, maybe that is the future and maybe there is no way around it. WHOLESALE ON LINE. Gee Mr. Dealer!! Where you gonna’ get your training. Oh, that is right. Before continuing education was required, some dealers never attended a class and blamed the equipment when it was poorly installed. Gee Mr. Distributor!! Wouldn’t it cost you less in warranty hassles if the dealer was trained and had loyalty? If you provided or encouraged business training would that reduce your bad debt and right offs? Gee Mr. Manufacturer!! Bad warranty claims are eating your lunch. Wouldn’t it be more profitable to build a network of qualified dealers who actually know your equipment and install it to your instructions. How many unhappy customers will give you a bad name because you don’t honor a warranty when the system is not installed according to local laws? It is already headed that way with licensed dealers. How much worse will it be when you open the flood gate of online sales. Our industry is on the verge of ruining the reputation of the whole HVACR industry due to online sales to homeowners. Hey! I am telling the truth and everyone one of you know it. What do we do? Try spending time mapping a marketing strategy that builds dealer loyalty and training. A marketing strategy that emphasizes quality rather

than price. We frequently hear and say, that a race to the lowest price is a race to the bottom and bankruptcy. Whether we are a light of professionalism providing safe and efficient comfort and refrigeration or we play in the night of pimps and prostitutes, is up to us. Homeowners need to trust us because they have no way of knowing what is involved in sizing, installing, and servicing a HVACR system. They need us and, if we deliver what we promise, they will reward us with gratitude, loyalty, and profit.

Who will do the most harm?

Pimps

Prostitutes

On Line HVAC Sales

Let me affirm my commitment to our industry; dealers, distributors, and manufacturers — most especially to our homeowners and businesses that depend on our professionalism to deliver healthy, safe, efficient comfort and refrigeration. If this article bothers you, maybe we all know it is true. Maybe we aren’t sure how to handle the future. One thing is certain, if we don’t plan our future, it will plan ours.

http://www.edssupply.com/arkansas

5% Energy Resource Conservation Loans

A Touchstone Energy® Partner

• No down payment • Low 5% interest • Up to 84 months to pay • Write one check for your payment and electric bill

• No early payment penalty • Low hassle loan application Call Southwest Arkansas Electric Member Service Department 800-782-2743

SUMMARY OF ERC LOAN PROGRAM Southwest Arkansas Electric Cooperative Energy Resource Conservation (ERC) Loan Program provides low cost financing for high efficiency heat pumps and other energy conservation improvements needed to make your home energy efficient. With approved credit and completion of the home survey, SWAECC will loan up to $5,000 per member per residential structure at 5% interest for up to 84 months. These loans are to finance energy conservation measures including heat pumps (including water source), caulking, weather stripping, insulation, storm or thermal doors and windows, etc. Loans for more than $5,000 will need Board of Director approval. Loans which do not include a heat pump will be limited to $3,000. To qualify, all conservation measures must save enough energy within 10 years to pay for the improvements. Payback estimates are determined by the Cooperative's Home Survey. Because loan funds are limited, loans will be made on a first come, first served basis. QUALIFICATIONS To qualify for the loan the member must have a good credit history with Southwest Arkansas Electric Cooperative and a good national credit rating. A three-member loan committee will check the member's credit before approving the loan. Loans will only be made for existing homes or buildings. The program is not for homes under construction. Also, property must be owned by the member. The cooling capacity of the heat pump should not exceed 125% of the calculated design load. The heat pump must also meet minimum efficiency ratings to qualify. The SEER rating must be 14.0 or above and the HSPF must be 8.0 or higher. All duct work, including all supply and return air duct work, must be installed with a minimum of 2" duct insulation or rigid fiberglass board and must be sized properly for noise reduction and air flow. HOME SURVEY Before a loan can be made, a home energy survey must be completed. This is a questionnaire concerning the existing and proposed energy efficiency of the property . CONTACT YOUR DEALER We advise but do not require you to contact more than one qualified dealer or contractor for cost estimates to install a heat pump and making other improvements such as storm windows or insulation if they are advised. To qualify for the ERC Loan, the unit must be installed by a member of the Arkansas HVACR Association. SUBMIT APPLICATION FOR ERC LOAN Complete and return the credit application, and the credit check authorization form in this brochure. Your application will be submitted to our loan committee for consideration, and we will notify you in writing of their decision. Once your credit is approved, we will need a copy of the deed to your property for proof of ownership and a legal description. The cooperative will file a lien on the proper-ty to secure the loan. A one-time fee of $30 will be charged to cover the cost of placing and releasing the property lien PROCESSING LOAN DOCUMENTS Upon completion of the work, a serviceman will inspect it. When the invoice is received and the inspection is complete, we will make an appointment for you to come to our Texarkana office to sign the loan papers and have them notarized. All checks will be two-party checks made out to both you and the contractor or contractors. NOTE : Cost of equipment and installation are to be negotiated between you and your contractor. You will be responsible for getting the invoices to us for processing and making payment to your contractor. A two-party check will be written to both you and the dealer . Sign the check only after work is completed.

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

State National Chapter News

certification, the ruling settled on construction materials and methods. • Foam • Concrete Insulated Panels • Structural Insulated Panels • Encapsulated Structures This at least gives a definition that we can physically see. Now that it is settled, we can move on with confidence that we are abiding by code as interpreted by the Department of Labor and Licensing HVACR Program. April 3 & 4 were EXPOs in Central and Northwest Arkansas, UAPTC and NWACC respectively. The programs were in three parts. • Pressure Interactions between the Envelope and HVAC System: Bobby Parks • Code with Tony Cooper, Chief Inspector Joe use a live dual fuel system to demonstrate how to confirm the operations of the system. Bobby used an amazing demo house to illustrate pressure interactions. Tony went into dept on a variety of topics that everyone needed to hear. In the EXPOs there were 780 CEU hours. All comments were positive and you know how rare that is. We appreciate Joe Medosch, Bobby Parks, and Tony Woodard for taking their time to teach our industry. This is an excellent example of our industry working together to learn or refresh new technologies and regulations that we can be better HVAC professionals for Arkansas homeowners and businesses. • Commissioning: Joe Medosch

EXPOs and Mo Chapter Meetings and EXPOs in Central

and Northwest Arkansas

This spring the Arkansas HVACR Association and the 8 local chapters sponsored Continuing Education to meet the requirements of license renewal. The Chapters hosted IMC, Chapter 4, Ventilation during the month of March. Chapters include:

Central

• • • • • • • •

Fort Smith Hot Springs North Central

Northeast Northwest

South Central

Southwest

Meetings were well attended with a total of 162 in attendance. The most interesting part was the breakdown. There were 4007 years of experience represented. Amazing! 75% were owners. This proves that our industry is full of experience. The average time in the business was 25 years with one topping 50. Though there was lots of experience represented, everyone learned at least a little. One of the most important issues was “ required or not required ” fresh air. As you know, we have spent several years thrashing this issue. Now the code is clear. Unless the house is “ unusually tight ” , there is no requirement for fresh air — at least as far as the HVACR industry is concerned. What is “ unusually tight ” ? While a blower door test would be the best

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

State National Chapter News

With Love and Respect Richard Clark is Recognized

Our industry has many folks that we could refer to as Legacy. That means they served for the benefit of the HVACR industry for years; generally without recognition for the sacrifices and contributions they made. Richard Clark is definitely one of those. He was recently presented a plaque of recognition for his many years of service. Most in Arkansas know Richard for his ownership and work at Environmental Equipment in North Little Rock. It was there that he planted and nurtured the seeds of technical expertise and professionalism. Presenting the plaque were Tony Woodard Chief Inspector of the State, Alan Dean of Dean’s Air Conditioning in Camden and Chair of the HVACR Licensing Board, and John and Rhonda Zajac of All City Mechanical. Each had a story that credited Richard for their growth and success. It was touching in that grown men had a tear in their eyes as they recounted what “they owed” Richard. None of us can take full credit for our success and these men heartedly gave Richard credit for theirs; not just in business but as a friend and mentor. Wanting to meet the man he had heard so much about, Lindsay Moore, Director of Code Enforcement, also attended and expressed his gratitude for the quality of man Tony Woodard became a t Richard’s mentorship. Richard worked tirelessly to pass the HVACR Licensing Law. That effort has provided benefit to the HVACR industry and protection for Arkansans. There were

Richard Clark & Alan Dean

many involved but Richard offered significant support and coordination of the effort. He also worked with AP&L and the Cooperatives to start the Arkansas Heat Pump Association, the forerunner of the Arkansas HVACR Association. He also provided Manual J and duct design training for Association meetings. So, when you add up the industry and personal impact, few can compare to Richard Clark and none can surpass.

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

State National Chapter News

New Overtime Rules

FTC Bans Noncompete Agreements

On April 23, 2024, the US Department of Labor announced the final rule that expands the overtime compensation requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under current law, all employees covered by the FLSA are entitled to overtime pay at the rate of 1.5 times their regular wage for all hours worked over 40 hours in a work week. Under the “white - collar” exemption, employees who perform certain administrative, executive, computer, and/or professional duties are exempt if they are paid at least $35,568 per year ($684/week) on a salary basis. However, effective July 1, 2024, the salary threshold will increase to the equivalent of an annual salary of $43,888 ($844/week) and increase to $58,656 ($1128/week) on January. 1, 2025. The July 1 increase updates the present annual salary threshold of $35,568 based on the methodology used by the prior administration in the 2019 overtime rule update. Impacted employers should review their employee roster to determine who may be impacted by this change and develop a plan to minimize risk and ensure compliance. Obviously, we can expect numerous lawsuits in the coming days attempting to block enforcement of this new rule. Article authored by H. Wayne Young of Friday Eldredge & Clark, LLP a full-service law firm representing businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, government entities and individual clients with offices in Little Rock 501-376-2011 and Rogers 479-695-2011.

Under the FTC’s new rule, existing non competes for the vast majority of workers will no longer be enforceable after the rule’s effective date. Existing non competes for senior executives - who represent less than 0.75% of workers - can remain in force under the FTC’s final rule, but employers are banned from entering into or attempting to enforce any new non-competes, even if they involve senior executives. Employers will be required to provide notice to workers other than senior executives who are bound by an existing noncompete that they will not be enforcing any non competes against them. In January 2023, the FTC issued a proposed rule which was subject to a 90-day public comment period. The FTC received more than 26,000 comments on the proposed rule, with over 25,000 comments in support of the FTC’s proposed ban on non-competes. The comments informed the FTC’s final rulemaking process, with the FTC carefully reviewing each comment and making changes to the proposed rule in response to the public’s feedback. In the final rule, the Commission has determined that it is an unfair method of competition, and therefore a violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act, for employers to enter into non-competes with workers and to enforce certain non-competes. The Commission found that non competes tend to negatively affect

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

State National Chapter News

competitive conditions in labor markets by inhibiting efficient matching between workers and employers. The Commission also found that non-competes tend to negatively affect competitive conditions in product and service markets, inhibiting new business formation and innovation. There is also evidence that non-competes lead to increased market concentration and higher prices for consumers. Alternatives to Non-competes The Commission found that employers have several alternatives to non-competes that still enable firms to protect their investments without having to enforce a noncompete. Trade secret laws and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) both provide employers with well-established means to protect proprietary and other sensitive information. Researchers estimate that over 95% of workers with a noncompete already have an NDA. The Commission also finds that instead of using non-competes to lock in workers, employers that wish to retain employees can compete on the merits for the worker’s labor services by improving wages and working conditions. Under the final rule, existing non competes for senior executives can remain in force. Employers, however, are prohibited from entering into or enforcing new non-competes with senior executives. The final rule defines senior executives as workers earning more than $151,164 annually and who are in policy making positions. Changes from the NPRM

rule that would have required employers to legally modify existing non-competes by formally rescinding them. That change will help to streamline compliance. Instead, under the final rule, employers will simply have to provide notice to workers bound to an existing noncompete that the noncompete agreement will not be enforced against them in the future. To aid employers’ compliance with this requirement, the Commission has included model language in the final rule that employers can use to communicate to workers. The Commission vote to approve the issuance of the final rule was 3-2 with Commissioners Melissa Holyoak and Andrew N. Ferguson voting no. Commissioners Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, Alvaro Bedoya, Melissa Holyoak and Andrew N. Ferguson each issued separate statements. Chair Lina M. Khan will issue a separate statement. The final rule will become effective 120 days after publication in the Federal Register. Once the rule is effective, market participants can report information about a suspected violation of the rule to the Bureau of Competition by emailing noncompete@ftc.gov. Article taken from the FTC website. For more information click on the following link. https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press releases/2024/04/ftc-announces-rule-banning noncompetes

Additionally, the Commission has eliminated a provision in the proposed

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

State National Chapter News

of the 2,000 or less but that is just a prognostication. Of course this matters a lot if you need to buy a home; but, how does it affect our industry? 36,037 Arkansas homes sold in 2023. 3,802 thus far in 2024. Don’t have an exact number for existing sales versus new construction; however each home is an opportunity for our industry to provide our valuable service of safe, affordable comfort systems. We just need to let folks know that we are available to assure them that their home will be comfortable. After all, that is our business. 6.88 7.1 7.17

Mortgage Rates on the Rise Again

7.5

MORTGAGE RATES

6.9 6.94 6.88

6.87

7

6.79 6.82

6.77

6.74

6.69

6.63 6.64

6.62 6.66 6.6

6.5

6

1/4/24

2/4/24

3/4/24

4/4/24

P ercentages are hard to spend at the grocery store so let’s see what this means to an Arkansas family buying a home. The average home in Arkansas is valued at $203,305. At that number, 50+% of the homes are selling for more, some much more. So how does that affect a monthly mortgage. We ran some numbers. Remember that we assumed good credit, $5,000 down, and a 30 year mortgage. We did not include mortgage insurance which will be required unless you have a 20% downpayment. We also did not include taxes or insurance. In other words, this is the base — a low, low base but it does give some food for thought. At the 7.17% interest rate of today, the base payment is $1,342. Only 5 months ago on January 4, 2024, the payment would have been $1,207 — an increase of $134 at today’s rate. Who knows where this is going or when it will come down. Highter interest rates may reduce the size of home many can afford. We all have wondered where these folks were getting the money to afford opulent dwellings. We may see fewer of the 3,000+ square foot homes and more

Monthly Payment

$1,342

$1,189 $1,207

$1,065

$947

$1,100

$836

$600

3.00% 4.00% 5.00% 6.00% 6.12% 7.17%

ARHVACR NewsMagazine May2024

S tate, National, Chapter News State national Chapter News

Understanding Heat and Your Working Environment

Nick Hall Cross Pointe Insurance Advisors

High

body

As summer approaches and the days get longer, the dangers of working outside during hot weather also increases. Knowing how to work safely in hot weather can help prevent heat stress injuries and heat stroke. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), heat stroke is the most serious heat-related disorder and occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. The body temperature can rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes and heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Other heat-related disorders include heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash.

•

temperature

Strong, rapid pulse

•

Chills

•

Confusion

•

Slurred speech

•

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to the loss of water and salt, typically through sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

Excessive sweating

•

Weakness or fatigue

•

Dizziness and/or confusion

•

Clammy skin

•

Muscle cramps

•

Flushed complexion

•

Heat cramps are painful cramps in the body’s muscles due to low salt levels and are typically caused by excessive sweating. Symptoms of heat cramps include: • Muscle pain is usually in the abdomen, arm, or legs. • Muscle spasms usually in the abdomen, arm, or legs.

Heat Illness: Symptoms and Prevention

Heat-Related Disorders

• Heat stroke occurs when the body no longer sweats and body temperature reaches dangerous levels. Symptoms of heat stroke include: • Dry, hot reddish skin and lack of sweating

ARHVACR NewsMagazine May2024

S tate, National, Chapter News State national Chapter News

Heat Rash is an irritation of the skin caused by excessive sweating. Symptoms of heat rash include: • Red cluster of pimples or small blisters • Usually on neck and upper chest, groin area, under the breasts, and in elbow creases. • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids; drink about 16 ounces before starting and 5 to 7 ounces every 15 or 20 minutes. • Avoid dehydrating liquids. Alcohol, coffee, tea, and caffeinated soft drinks can hurt more than help. • Wear protective clothing. Lightweight, light-colored, and loose fitting clothing helps protect against heat. Change clothing if it gets completely saturated. • Pace yourself. Slow down and work at an even pace. Know your own limits and ability to work safely in heat. • Schedule frequent breaks. Take time for rest periods and water breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area. • Use a damp rag. Wipe your face or put it around your neck. • Avoid getting sunburn. Use sunscreen and wear a hat if working outside. • Be alert to signs of heat-related illness. Know what to look for and Ten Hot Weather Safety Tips:

check on other workers that might be at high risk. • Avoid direct sun. Find shade or block out the sun if possible. • Eat smaller meals. Eat fruits high in fiber and natural juice. Avoid high protein foods. Remember to respect and understand the signs your body is giving you, and take the necessary steps to ensure your health and safety! Cross Pointe Insurance Advisors, LLC 12410 Cantrell Road, Ste 200A Little Rock, AR 72223 nickh@cp-ins.com 501-680-1186 Need to Save Money and Get Great Service? Now may be the best time to review your commercial insurance: General Liability, Workers Compensation, Vehicle, Building, etc.

Travis Hill……………....(479) 424 -4918 Nick Hall…………………(501) 680 -1186 Kyle Schnebelen……..(501)831 -5221

Cash McMillin…….….(501) 581 -1176

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

education News

The EGIA Foundation is Accepting Applications for Its 2024 HVAC HERO Scholarship

HVAC Excellence is pleased to inform you of a scholarship program that can help your students!

Since 2018, the EGIA Foundation has awarded up to 20 students per year — now up to 30 students per year! — $2,500 apiece in order to remove financial barriers for deserving young people, helping them pursue their HVAC education and promising careers in the industry. We are pleased to announce that the HVAC HERO Scholarship program is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year and we invite you to help us share this opportunity with your community. Click the buttons below to visit EGIAFoundation.org to learn more about the scholarship and access helpful communications tools; download the scholarship flyer to share with interested students; or visit AlwaysInDemand.com to view the application and apply.

Learn More & Access Tools

View Application & Apply

Scholarship Flyer

News Magazine

S tate, National, Chapter News Education News

Northwest Technical Institute 709 Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, Arkansas 2764 Galin Cronin : info@nwti.edu 479-751-8824 SAU Tech 6415 Spellman Rd, East Camden, AR 71701 Roland Walters : cwalters@sautech.edu 870-574-4500 Southeast Arkansas College 1900 Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71603 Danny Gumm : dgumm@seark.edu 870-543-5976 UACC Hope / Texarkana 2500 South Main, Hope 71802 Leo Rateliff : leo.rateliff@uacch.edu 870-722-8507 UACC Morrilton 1537 University Blvd., Morrilton, AR 72110 Carroll Chism : chismc@uaccm.edu (501) 977-2053 UA Pulaski Tech College 3000 West Scenic Drive, NLR 72206 Matthew Lemaster : mlemaster@uaptc.edu 501-812-2795 UA Monticello / Crossett

Training Programs

Arkansas North Eastern College 4213 Main Street, Blytheville 72315 Rick Sones : rsones@smail.anc.edu 870-763-6222 Arkansas Tech University, Ozark 1700 Helberg Lane, Ozark, AR 72949 Kenneth Beeler : kbeeler@atu.edu 479-508-3333 ASU Mountain Home 4034 Hwy 63 W, Mountain Home 72653 No program at present ASU Newport 33500 US 63, Marked Tree 72365 Mark Constant : mark_constant@asun.edu 870-358-8627 ASU Searcy 1800 East Moore Avenue, Searcy Brad Cooper : bjcooper@asun.edu 501-207-6221 East Arkansas Community College Newcastle Road, Forrest City, AR 72335 Robert Jackson : rjackson@eacc.edu 870-633-5411 National Park College 101 College Drive, Hot Springs, 71913 Ashton Copaus : ashton.copaus@np.edu 501-760-4394 North Arkansas Community College 1515 Pioneer Drive, Harrison, AR 72601 Jeff Smith : jsmith@northark.edu 870-391-3382 Northwest Arkansas Community College One College Drive, Bentonville, AR 71712 A. J. Hart : ahart7@nwacc.edu 479-986-4000

1326 Hwy 52W, Crossett, AR 71635 Brad White : bwhite@uamont.edu 870-415-9795

Add Your Name

If you are a college or technical institute and want to be included in the list of HVACR education providers, contact the NewsMagazine 501-487-8655 news@arhvacr.org We’ll make sure you are in the next issue. Also, if we need to correct your information, please let us know.

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Tech News

drain pan will also help you see if the drain has the proper pitch and is draining properly.

There is not much worse than having a service call where you can’t figure out where the water is coming from or where it came from before you got there. I have spent many hours scratching my sweaty head in attics while I stared into the riser of a drain line, waiting for water to start running down the Written by Matthew Burner and appeared in the April 25, 20224 of HVAC School Troubleshooting Water Leaks

Read the Installation Manual

Are there any specific instructions for the coil in regard to condensation? Is the coil designed to be installed horizontally or in the upflow/downflow position? Many manufacturers require kits for downflow applications. Many

manufacturers are also requiring splash guards for certain models in horizontal applications. Check to make sure the coil is installed correctly according to the manufacturer. Coils that are designed for splash guards and don’t have them can throw or “spit” water off the coil into the supply

drain. The sheetrock under the unit or floor under the unit is wet, but you can’t figure out how it got that way. Here is my troubleshooting process for tricky water leaks.

Make Sure he Unit is Level

W e need to start here, of course. But even this can be tricky. If the system is in a closet, where can you really check the level? Some units hung with straps can be warped or twisted because the sheet metal evaporator coil boxes are not incredibly sturdy. If the pitch of the unit is in question, open up the evaporator coil door and pour some water into the primary drain pan. Pouring water into the

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Tech News

plenum, soaking the insulation and causing water to drip .

Could the contactor be getting stuck closed, causing the system to freeze up on the off cycle? Water that has run down and dried up often leaves mineral stains or trails. Sometimes following these mineral deposits can help you find the source of a leak. Is the system old or brand new? Is the water issue constant or infrequent? What patterns or correlations are there between runtime/weather and the drain issues? Have any changes been made recently? Ultimately, you may have to make some changes to the system, such as leveling or setting the system up as designed, before you can find the root cause. Bizarre water drips and leaks can be frustrating. Communicate with the customer about your findings. I find it best to keep my recommendations for repair conservative unless I have a high level of confidence that I have found the root problem causing the water leak. As always we appreciate Brian Orr and HVAC School For Techs by techs for sharing their excellent articles and encourage our readers to subscribe to their site at https://hvacrschool.com/start/

Test the System Run the system under the conditions it was in when you arrived. Check the refrigerant pressures. Could the system have frozen up? Check the refrigerant charge and airflow. Coils with ice on them “grow” ice in places where the drain pan wasn’t designed to c atch the water. If there is a brand new filter in the unit, ask if it was replaced recently. Are the fins damaged, causing water to pool and drip off rather than run into the pan? Is the drain line cracked or not glued? Run some water down the drain line. It may be clear now, but it could have a partial restriction that drains on the off cycle. If the drain is backing up and there isn’t a float switch on the system, where is the water going to end up? Without a secondary drain, the water will end up filling the air handler or plenums. That could be the source of your problem.

Get Creative

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Feature Story

Understanding the complex is best understood when someone like Craig Migliaccio simplifies it. What about TXVs? Certainly more complex than a piston. It is kinda good to have a mental picture of what the TXV is doing. After all, ya’ gotta use Supercool when you have a TXV. So how’s it work. The best way for you to, not only know, but also remember is to watch a video by AC Service Tech. The link is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cORHW ATpwUc You can also click on the picture above. Who’d a thunk that you could take a TXV and hook it up to water to demonstrate how the TXV regulates refrigerant flow. Ya’ just got to see it to believe it. I know you can explain it but seeing is remembering. Have fun and consider subscribing to his website. You’ll be glad you did. Just a thought for our industry. This information was shared by Matthew Bruner who wrote an article for Bryan Orr & HVAC School. Three guys sharing information for the benefit of our industry. At the onset of COVID, our Association wrote a lengthy White Paper with suggestions on how to proceed. It was really good and among the first in our industry. A national publication picked it up (with permission) but you needed a magnifying glass to see the attribution. Later they refused to allow us to reprint some of their excellent stuff. The publication and training business is very competitive; yet, this TXV Demo Using a Water Stream An amazing demonstration by Craig Migliaccio with AC Service Tech A Moral to the Story

…a great example of how Arkansas dealers should be.

story is a great example of how Arkansas dealers should be. We should share and cooperate As I travel the state, there seems to be pockets where local dealers will barely give their competitor the time of day. Some even lie to compete. I heard of one dealer in (city un named) that pretends to be a home owner posting bad reviews on other contractors. I mean--how desperate can you be when you spend time tearing down folks instead of building up your own business. Some don’t want their techs attending a class where other techs may be. Are they so naïve as to think that their guys don’t talk at the supply house. That they don’t talk pay and have good or bad comments about their boss. Geez! We all know it so we should act accordingly. No, not start talking bad about our employees but perfecting our management style and building a business that is successful offering benefits and a future — a career as opposed to a job. I ’m just saying, “the more we work together, the more we all achieve. ” There will always be those that chase low price to the bottom, talk bad about everyone else, and resist industry changes and training. We all have to get on board and work together. Together we can bring our industry into a new brand of professionalism.

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

Tech News

Vacuum: Moisture vs. System Written by Don Gillis with Chemours and appeared in the April 5, 20224 of HVAC School

1. The system is still contaminated with

moisture. (Possibly trapped under the compressor oil.)

If the system indicates moisture, a multiple evacuation with a nitrogen sweep will significantly reduce the amount of moisture in the system.

Evacuation helps remove contaminants, like moisture and non-condensable gases, from HVAC/R systems, especially ones that are put into service for the first time or put back into service after a repair. Even though pulling a deep vacuum has always been a best practice, it will be required for systems that use the new A2L refrigerants. Before a system is ready to be charged with refrigerant, we must pull a deep vacuum on it to do a decay test. The rate at which our vacuum decays lets us know if our system is dry and tight enough to operate normally. Everything leaks a little, but the decay test sets a threshold that we don’t want to exceed. If our vacuum decays beyond that target, that means we have some problems we need to address. If the leak rate has still not decreased, then one of two things may be happening:

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

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If the system has a leak, the vacuum gauge will continue to rise until atmospheric pressure has been reached. However, if the system is vacuum-tight but still contains moisture, the rise will level off when the vapor pressure equalizes in the system, typically between 20,000 and 25,000 microns between 72° and 80°F. At that point, that vacuum reading will become stable. Note: a system that continues to level off at 3500 – 4500 microns may have turned system moisture to ice. Should this occur, the system temperature may have to be raised by an external heat source to get the moisture out of the system.) Conclusion The two main causes of a failed decay test are moisture contamination and system leaks, both with different fixes. They’ll also look a bit different if you’re using an app to keep track of your vacuum. (Wet systems level off above the decay threshold; leaky systems tend to have straight lines going well above that target.) Leaky systems that manage to get past the nitrogen pressure test will need to be addressed just like any other leak you’d find in the pressure test. Again, we don’t use a deep vacuum for leak testing because the vacuum pump draws moisture into the system through the leaks when it creates a pressure differential. But a deep vacuum can show you that you have a leaky system, and it needs to be taken care of just like any other system leak found with bubbles or a nitrogen pressure test. As always we appreciate Brian Orr and HVAC School For Techs by techs for sharing their excellent articles and encourage our readers to subscribe to their site at https://hvacrschool.com/start/

Here is a step-by-step guide to the nitrogen sweep procedure:

1. Reduce the system pressure to between 1000 and 2500 microns. 2. Isolate the vacuum pump with the core tools and disconnect the vacuum hose from the low side of the system. 3. Break the system vacuum with nitrogen introduced at the side port of the core tool. 4. Break the vacuum with nitrogen to get it to the equivalent of atmospheric pressure (760,000 microns). 5. Purge nitrogen through the system at 1 – 3 PSIG from the high to the low side, letting it vent out the open port of the core tool. Do not pressurize the system. Typically, no more than a triple evacuation with a nitrogen sweep will be required. 2. The system has a small leak that was not detected by the initial pressure test. (Some leaks are more apparent under vacuum than pressure.) While the micron gauge is quite capable of picking up leaks, testing for a leak in a vacuum is not acceptable practice over a standing pressure test, as moisture is drawn into the system during the evacuation process. If you find you have a leak under vacuum, break the vacuum with dry nitrogen and try to find it under pressure. DO NOT open the system to atmosphere under a vacuum! Doing so undermines all your time and effort to this point.

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

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4. ISO 817 Standard: The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has its own standard (ISO 817) for the identification of refrigerants. This standard includes a letter and number code that provides information about the chemical composition and properties of the refrigerant. 5. UN Number: The United Nations (UN) assigns identification numbers to substances, including refrigerants, for transportation and safety purposes. This UN number can be used to identify a refrigerant when it is being transported. 6. Color Codes: Some refrigerants are associated with specific color codes for easy identification of cylinders or systems containing the refrigerant. However, reliance on color coding alone is not recommended, as it can be misleading due to variations in industry practices. It's important to use multiple sources of information to accurately identify a refrigerant, as different systems may be used in various contexts (e.g., manufacturing, transportation, safety, and industry standards). Always refer to official documentation and standards to ensure accurate identification and handling of refrigerants. READY TO HAVE FUN LEARNING MORE? Click on the following link for ESCO READY TO HAVE FUN LEARNING MORE?? Click on the following link for the ECO Show. https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/u rn:li:activity:7142601752784044032

Refrigerant Numbering

Refrigerants are identified using various systems and nomenclatures that provide information about their chemical composition and properties. Some common methods for identifying refrigerants include: and Formula: Refrigerants are often identified by their chemical names and formulas. For example, chlorodifluoromethane is the chemical name for the refrigerant commonly known as R-22. The chemical formula for R-22 is CHClF2. System: The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) assigns unique numbers to refrigerants as part of its standard ASHRAE 34. The ASHRAE number is commonly used to identify and classify refrigerants. For example, R-134a and R-410A are ASHRAE designated refrigerants. 3. Trade Names and Branding: Many refrigerants are associated with specific trade names or brands. For instance, R-22 is often referred to by the brand name Freon, which is associated with DuPont (now Chemours). R-410A is often marketed under brand names like Puron. 1. Chemical Name 2. ASHRAE Numbering

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operate in the required temperature ranges. CO2 air conditioning systems are designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. 4. Industrial Refrigeration: CO2 is being used in industrial refrigeration processes, such as those required for freezing and cooling in food processing and cold storage. It was also used in applications like ice rinks and thermal storage systems. 5. Transport Refrigeration: CO2 has been employed in transport refrigeration units, including refrigerated trucks and trailers. These units use CO2 as a refrigerant to keep perishable goods at the desired temperatures during transport. 6. Beverage Dispensing: CO2 has long been used in the beverage industry to dispense carbonated drinks like soda and beer. It plays a crucial role in maintaining carbonation and serving beverages at the right temperature. 7. Water Heating: In some innovative water heating systems, CO2 was used as a heat transfer fluid to provide hot water for domestic and commercial purposes. For more information on the emerging use of CO2 as a refrigerant, click on Trevor Matthews Reprinted from HVAC Excellence.

CO2 AS A REFRIGERANT

CO2 is being used in the refrigeration industry in various applications due to its environmentally friendly properties, low global warming potential (GWP), and ozone depletion potential (ODP). Here are some common ways in which CO2 was being utilized in refrigeration: 1. Commercial Refrigeration: CO2 is being used in large commercial refrigeration systems, especially in supermarkets and cold storage facilities. These systems are designed to maintain low-temperature conditions and keep food products fresh. CO2, often in a transcritical cycle, was used as a natural refrigerant to replace traditional synthetic refrigerants with higher GWP. 2. Heat Pumps: CO2 heat pumps were employed for both heating and cooling purposes in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. These heat pumps could efficiently provide space heating and cooling while reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. 3. Air Conditioning: In some applications, CO2 is being used in air conditioning systems, particularly in regions where it can effectively

HVACR NewsMagazine May 2024

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Adequate Air at a Glance and Why Modulating Dampers in Any System is a Poor Choice.

Converting tonnage air flow requirements from inches to poster board size is game changer. The practice makes recognizing the need for an upgrade much easier for the salesman, technician, and homeowner. For basic size requirements, we take the CFM necessary and divide by two. For a one and a half ton (nominal) system we need 300 square inches of return at a minimum. This relates to a 16x20 poster board. The equivalent is seldom found in typical construction. We see these size grills where equipment in the 1.5 to 3 ton systems are installed. And things go down from here. A three ton (nominal) system will require a 20x30 poster board for comparison. We see 30x20 returns grilles employed widely on 5 ton systems. Finally, the largest poster board regularly sold, is a 24x36 board. This size poster board identifies five tons (nominal) of air and is still just under one square foot too small . Your customer will grasp this comparison easily. When the customer doubts your numbers and asks why the first company didn’t get it right, you can justify you position since evaporator coils have become increasingly dense with fins per inch count on the rise. Today’s air handlers and furnaces handle air much more efficiently than did older equipment. Most homes have the equivalent of the 18”x24” no matter the equipment size.

We have discussed insuring adequate system air many times here. Everyone thinks of formulas, static pressure measurement, or other criteria to chase down elusive air requirements. Along those same discussions, we have concluded a filter in the bottom of any furnace or air handler is a thing of the past. We should never use the factory default for filtering to assure proper air flow. Filters are now known as an insurance policy for system performance and evaporator replacement. Without efficient filtration, the entire mechanical system is at risk. I will state flatly that only one cursory measurement is actually required upon a repair or sales call. If everyone gets used to understanding the option, you will only pull out a measuring tape after the sale is made and you will become keenly aware of restricted shortages with only a glance. You can always true up your estimate or repair cost after the sale. Since over 80% of homes are short on return or as identified in heating dominate climates, cold air return, we should become familiar with what adequate air intake looks like from a physical dimension rather than numbers on a page. A square inch description never conveys an accurate picture of area.