Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

News Magazine

September 2021

Ark ansas’ First and Only HVACRNewsMagazine

Arkansas Energy Office & ACCA Visit North Arkansas College

“Train the Trainer” Comes to Arkansas HVACR Instructors

Open to Instructors Free to Instructors $3,000 + in Free Equip.

Jim Bergmann

Pg. 42

Pg 16

Dr. Rick Massengale, President, North Arkansas College Jeff Smith, HVACR Program Manager, North Arkansas College

Ryan Burris, Outreach and Training Manager, Arkansas Energy Office Barton James, President and CEO, Air Conditioning Contractors of America

Pg 2

To VAX Or Not To VAX

Pg. 12

Newspaper Insulation

pg 15 pg 18 pg 22 pg 27 pg 29 pg 33 pg 53 pg 56 pg 60

Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign

Give Me A Piece of That Ice Cream Cake

Word Up from Better Business Bureau Tax Credits for High Efficiency Systems Cyber Liability, EMC--Nick Hall Kirk ’ s Corner – Winter ’ s Coming What ’ s the Difference? 208V vs 240V Goldilocks & 3 Bears, Air Flow--Tom Turner

Unique Arkansas : Ice Cream Cake

ByArkansans

For Arkansans

Table of Contents

Chapter Meeting Schedule

PG 6

Feature Stories

PG 8

Challenges & Opportunities : Your Next Tech--- A SINGLE MOM

Editorial & Opinion To VAX or Not to VAX

pg 12

Lunch & Learn

PG 21

Flex Duct

State, national, chapter news Newspaper Insulation

PG 15

Arkansas Energy Office & ACCA Visit North Arkansas College Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign

pg 16

PG 18

Word Up from the Better Business Bureau Tax Credits for High Efficiency Systems

PG 22

pg 27

Cyber Liability : Nick Hall

pg 29

PG 33

Kirk’s Corner : Winter’s Coming

Education News Training Programs

PG 34

pg 30 PG 33 pg 36 PG 8 42

ESCO Learning Network

Train the Trainer : Jim Bergmann to Teach Arkansas HVACR Instructors

Rebate Programs & Incentives

PG 44

Tech News

PG 53

What’s the Difference Between 208V and 240V (Emily Gutowski, HVAC School) Goldilocks & The 3 Bears : Air Flow / Evaporator (Tom Turner — Air Evangelist)

PG 56

Unique Arkansas Featuring Arkansas Culture

PG 60

Ice Cream Cake : Give me another piece of that Ice Cream Cake

chapter meetings

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

October 26 November 23 February 22 March 22 April 26

September 7 October 5 November 2 December 7 January 4 February 1 March 1

Fort Smith Chapter 1 st Tuesday

5:30 Meal : 6:00 Program Location : Western Sizzlin 5200 Towson Avenue Fort Smith

April 5 May 3

Hot Springs Chapter 2 nd Tuesday 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

October 12 November 9 February 8

March 8 April 12

September 23 October 28 February 24 March 24 April 28

chapter meetings

North East Chapter 3 rd Tuesday

October 19 November 16 February 15 March 15 April 19

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

North West Chapter 2 nd Thursday

October 12 November 9 February 8

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

March 8 April 12

October 7 November 4 February 3 March 3 April 7

South West / Texarkana 3 rd Thursday

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

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

News Magazine September 2021

FEATURE STORY

So what are did the survey show that these career switchers are looking for?

Challenges & Opportunities WOULD SWITCH JOBS According to Prudential’s latest Pulse of the American Worker, 53% would switch, not just their job, but their career. While the pandemic has made folks re-evaluate their path in life, lots of people for a long time have wanted to change jobs. Why? Monotony — putting the same screw on the same bolt in factory work--Sitting at the same chair, watching the same computer for endless hours--Wanting some fresh air- -Wanting to build, to create, to do something with their hands. Those of us in the HVACR industry have those opportunities. So what are these career changers waiting on? Security, present pay, can’t afford a reduction in pay to start over, and no one is recruiting them. This is an OPPORTUNITY for the HVACR industry. One thing is certain, we offer lots of opportunity to learn, to grow, to be creative, to use ones hands. Now, we have to be honest. While this is a rewarding career, it is not an easy career. It is hot in the summer and can be cold in the winter and far too many companies are not offering many benefits; but, many are. We are working our way from offering jobs to offering caree rs. We’re getting there. 53%

50% higher compensation 34% growth opportunities

• •

• 24% tired of working on the same things Some of you may stop reading because you don’t think you can compete on the higher compensation issue. OK someone with a $100,000 dollar job will not want our entry level positions. On the other hand, there are many more folks in the $12 to $15 level that are equally unhappy. That is your market. They are bored with monotonous jobs, lack of growth opportunities, and not being appreciated. Some, like single moms, need an untraditional schedule. Now, let me say that I don’t know anyone doing my next concept but I know it will work for some companies. If you have lots of maintenance contracts / clean and check agreements, you may find that you really get behind at times. By the way, if you don’t have an aggressive maintenance / clean and check agreement department, you need to make that a top priority. It determines the value of your company. In the past we have depended on these to keep our techs busy in slack seasons. With the shortage of techs and growth of the company, their time is limited to do low tech work. So how do you get around to these super important jobs without sacrificing the higher return work of the service tech.

Read on and tell me I’m crazy -----

News Magazine September 2021

FEATURE STORY

One huge problem of being a single mom is getting the kids to day care and school and then picking them up in the afternoon. Let’s say they drop the kids off and could be at your shop by 9:00 and let’s say they need leave your shop at 3:00 p.m. to go pick up the kids. • How long does it take to run a call? 30 minutes perhaps an hour? With a 30 minute drive, that means they could complete from 4 to 6 calls a day. That ’s 20 to 30 calls a week. • What skills does it take and how long to achieve those skills. Maybe a couple of weeks working with a tech. Would they would be prepared to do the clean and check on their own with a limited number of calls to the office? You know better than I do. • What would you have to pay? It would be at the lower end of your scale but enough to attract them. • What would be the future? As they learned, you could send them to a night class. Grow them into a tech. By that time their kids may be old enough to not need as much time freeing mom to do more advanced jobs. In other words, grow your techs. Look, I have a tender heart for single moms. Many of us grew up with a single mom who took very menial low paying jobs to keep food on the table. You could give them a hand up and meet your labor needs. You only have to think outside the box. Traditional work schedules don’t work for everyone and this may be a way to help moms be with their kids and earn a living and work toward a career. Call me crazy, but I think it will work.

Your Next Maintenance Tech Could Be

A Single Mom

• Attention to Detail • Customer Skills

• Dependable • Appreciative • Loyal

To find applicants--

• Ask friends • Churches • Workforce Services • National Association of Women in Construction

http://www.edssupply.com/arkansas

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

To VAX Or Not To VAX

As you read this editorial, please do not draw an immediate conclusion. I have to build a case before stating my conclusion. That means you may misinterpret some of the information as being my opinion. I also will not seek to coax, cajole, or scold you take or not take the COVID19 vaccine. But I would like for you to think and then make a decision. This is not a medical article though it may have some medical facts. So, don ’ t think that I think I am a medical expert. Enough pleading for you to read objectively. We are living in a time of increasing polarization. Those who want you to take the vaccine are becoming bold in their “ enforcement ” tactics. Threats have metastasized into actual timelines to take the vaccine or loose ones job or, in some cases, pay more for health insurance. One liberal cable program uses words like “ dumb ” and “ stupid ” to express their frustration and label the folks not wanting to take the vaccine. They use studies that conclude that the majority of those not wanting the vaccine as being white, conservative, republican, or Evangelical Christian. The commentator then concludes that these folks are among the “ dumbest ” of the “ dumb ” and are akin to incestuous, southern rednecks. When they are kind, they refer to them as having given up on logic.

While some may think that these folks are only Costal Elites disconnected from the heartland, we have our share of baseless claims and reasons to reject the vaccine. Here ’ s a few of anit-vaxer suspicions / reasons: • The COVID-19 vaccine is unsafe because it was developed so quickly. • The COVID-19 vaccine will alter my DNA. • The COVID-19 vaccine includes a tracking device. • The COVID-19 vaccine has severe side effects • The COVID-19 vaccine causes infertility in women. • It is promoted by Communist inspired means • I can ’ t get it because it isn ’ t available • It ’ s another Tuskegee Syphilis study • The Chinese are using it to control us and to bankrupt America • The liberal Democrats can ’ t be trusted and Biden is a Democrat • Fauci has told too many lies • The liberal media can ’ t be trusted

Though there may be others, we need not go on.

In March of 2020 we wrote a white paper about how the HVACR industry should react to the pandemic. At that time we noticed that there were inconsistencies in

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

the information being put out by the CDC. I fully agree that the lack of total honesty and transparency was a result of these folks not trusting America. Even Trump in his interview with Bob Woodard admitted that the pandemic could be much worse than he was saying publicly. I don ’ t blame our leaders parsing words to avoid a panic; but, in hindsight, it would have been better to be totally upfront. We all have been affected by this pandemic. I lost my dearest friend. My daughter, three granddaughters, and grandson have had the virus. None had to go to the hospital and all are doing fine now. My wife and I got both shots and we have done amazingly well and enjoy those signs in businesses that say, “ If you have the COVID19 vaccination, you do not have to wear a mask. ” I know that is against present CDC guidelines but we still don ’ t wear a mask unless it is obvious that being maskless would be offensive to others. Interestingly, Pastor Warren of the Saddleback Church announced to his huge congregation that he and his wife had been vaccinated. His wife received hate mail. Amazing that even Christians cannot seem to love each other during a difference of opinion. My son and daughter-in-law have not been vaccinated because they felt that the vaccine was rushed and they have heard horror stories of side affects caused by the vaccine. Since I do not know the horror stories and cannot verify them, I don ’ t know what to think. I know what has worked for my wife and me. I have no right to force my family or yours to make one decision or the other.

HOWEVER, I would encourage you to think about what is influencing your decision. For example, a dear lady I know has not been vaccinated; and, out of curiosity, I asked why. She proceeded to tell me about the lying media, democrats, and medical folks and the double standard that the politicians have for themselves versus the rest of us; i.e., Pelosi, Newsome, etc., etc. I couldn ’ t agree more. Then I said, “ That has nothing to do with your health. ” We then talked more, not to persuade her to vax or not to vax, but to make a decision based on the science related to her health. BUT, at the end of it all, if the only reason she could find is her disdain of the political landscape, OK. Just admit that you are making a decision based on whatever you are making it on. Get on with your bad self but know what and why you are making your decision. The Delta variant is raging — affecting much younger folks than the original. We are back to mask mandates. Quarantines are back with school kids. I had three guys doing some landscaping. I asked if they had been vaccinated. With an almost angry look they said, “ Heck no!! ” Actually the language was a bit more colorful. A week later all of them had the virus. In conclusion, your decision is yours but know what you are deciding and why you are making that decision. Don ’ t let Google and gossip control your life. Either way, I want to shake your hand and see you in our fall meetings. You ’ re not going to scare me with Heaven.

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

Jefferson’s Monticello was insulated with a form of cellulose in 1772. Many types of cellulosic materials have been used but more often newspaper and cardboard. Modern cellulose insulation, made with recycled newspaper and cardboard using grinding and dust removing machines began in the 1950s and came into general use in the US during the 1970s. Fire retardant was optional with one Arkansas company as recent as 1975. You could order it with or without fire retardant. Thanks to the Federal Consumer Products Safety Commission passing 16 CFR Part 1209, fire retardancy became a requirement. To fire retard cellulose, manufacturers use boric acid, borax, or ammonium sulfate. These are effective flame retardants and help reduce pest issues. Additionally, they aren’t known to be hazardous to people. Cellulose has an R factor of about 3.5+/inch. These days, cellulose is being replaced in popularity by foam. It seems to be the darling of the building industry. For a price, it certainly has the value of cleanliness in appearance once installed. It is available in open cell with a R factor of about 3.25/inch or closed cell with an R factor of about 6/inch. So from Monticello to newspaper in walls to foam today, we have known that insulation makes a home more comfortable and reduces utility bills. Today, we only see newspaper pages in walls when an old house is being gutted. Kind of fun to read the paper. Brings back memories of days gone by. Guess we’ll never see an iPad digital paper be in a wall when today’s homes get gutted. It’s a new day.

Newspaper Insulation

Not too long ago, say 75 years or so, folks lived in houses where the siding boards didn’t come together and wind rushed in like a gale. Thus the expression, “ you could throw a cat through the wall. ” Not that anyone would do such a thing but imagine a cat with legs stretched out flying though a big crack in the wall. Obviously, an exaggeration but it did a good job of stating the frustration of the family wearing coats on a cold winter day while huddling around the Franklin. Old houses provided shelter but not a lot of comfort. In the case of log homes, people understood that chinking was necessary but frame houses, sometimes without interior walls needed something else. Thus, NEWSPAPER! Of course you needed a source of old newspaper but once that was obtained, tack or glue it up on the walls. The newspaper created an air barrier and insulation of sorts. If you had a little more money, you could also add interior walls and man oh man, the house could be warmed much easier. Again, stopping the air was critical. While newspaper as we see in the picture had some value, cellulose as an insulation has been around for centuries.

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

Arkansas Energy Office & ACCA Visit North Arkansas College It is becoming widely known that the HVACR program at North Arkansas College is a premier program in Arkansas. Even with limited space, instructor Jeff Smith has packed in one of the largest arrays of systems and training equipment. Well arranged and neatly kept, the program is a shining example of where we need to go with HVACR education. On August 19 th , Energy Office Ryan Burris, Outreach and Training Manager, and ACCA CEO & President, Barton James, visited the program in Harrison. Very Impressed, the two were given a tour of the program. Special time was given to reviewing the measureQuick software working with digital test instruments by Testo. Bluetooth connected, Jeff demonstrated the ability to determine the system ’ s operating capacity and efficiency on both an iPad as well as a large screen TV. A great tool for teaching as well as for technicians and installers in the field. Ryan was treated to an introduction of 3D Simulations and Virtual Education using InterPlay Learning platform. They have over 200 hours of training online and Jeff uses it with his students as well as hands on lab time. So how does one achieve the credit that North Arkansas College is enjoying? Jeff says it is the result of 12 years of work, vision, and looking for new ways to teach his students how to be successful technicians. One thing is also clear, President Massengale and Nell Bonds, Dean of Technical Programs are fully

Dr. Rick Massengale, President, North Arkansas College Jeff Smith, HVACR Program Manager, North Arkansas College

Ryan Burris, Outreach and Training Manager, Arkansas Energy Office Barton James, President and CEO, Air Conditioning Contractors of America

supportive of the program and Jeff’s focused and hard work. Both Dr. Massengale and Ms. Bonds asked the visitors how the program could improve and listened intently to suggestions by Burris and James. Jeff is expanding his program into light commercial and hopes that his program will be first in line for space being vacated by another program which is moving into a new building on the main campus. That will add significant space for expansion. This could be as soon as three years but Jeff is optimistic and is already including two screw compressors donated by Middleton in central Arkansas and Brewer Refrigeration in Winslow. As one can see, the word is getting out about the quality of the North ARK program. Jeff is usually busy with his students but welcomes inquiries via email at jsmith@northark.edu or phone at 870- 391-3382.

Don’t use hand-held phones while driving a CMV.

It’s the law. A CMV can be as small as a 3/4 T Truck and a Tandum Axle Trailer

©Copyright Employers Mutual Casualty Company 2017. All rights reserved. Image ©2012 iStockphoto.com. RI6359

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign

with key stakeholders, including HVAC contractors and installers, energy- efficiency programs, equipment developers, trainers, and others. Space heating and cooling systems account for 44 percent of energy consumption in U.S. residences 1 . Improper installation and maintenance of HVAC systems leads to increased energy use, unnecessary repairs, and occupant comfort issues. Researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimate that central air conditioners (CACs) and air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) in the U.S. waste 20.7 terawatt hours of energy per year due to equipment faults 2 . That’s 9 percent of national CAC/ASHP energy consumption, costing equipment owners $2.5 billion annually. To provide the high quality comfort that occupants expect, these units will need to be installed correctly from the start. The Campaign is sponsored by DOE and implemented by PNNL. The Campaign aims to accelerate the adoption of HVAC smart diagnostic tools by providing a platform for technical assistance and access to key resources, such as guidance on implementation best practices for contractors and installers, independent testing of available smart diagnostic tools, utility incentive Working in partnership to help ensure high-performance heat pumps operate efficiently and maintain optimal performance over time, reducing contractor callbacks and delivering comfort, energy savings, and low carbon heating to homeowners. What & Who

(Photo courtesy of Walt Hunt | Pacific Northwest National Laboratory)

Overview

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is launching a new campaign that promotes the use of smart diagnostic tools that allow HVAC contractors to quickly and easily commission new HVAC systems and identify faults in existing systems. Although automatic fault detection and diagnostics equipment is available today, it is offered only in a limited number of high-end products that aren’t yet cost -effective for most residential homeowners. Smart Diagnostic Tools address the system performance issue at a much lower cost. The Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign (Campaign) will serve as a national platform for sharing information and recognizing successes

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

programs, case studies, and lessons learned. The Campaign will also recognize contractors and installers who have achieved success with adopting HVAC smart diagnostic tools in their business, and Campaign supporters who have demonstrated impactful support to the Campaign by promoting and sharing key resources. Smart diagnostic tools determine faults in ASHPs and CACs by pairing a suite of digital gauges with a smart phone. Many brands of tools for residential HVAC diagnostics emerged in the last decade as a response to the need for more accurate and efficient ways to measure critical aspects of equipment performance, such as superheat and subcooling, while allowing for remote data collection for fault detection. Existing “smart” diagnostic tools on the market today use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth- enabled devices to monitor temperature, pressure, refrigerant charge, airflow, and other equipment performance metrics and transmit the data from equipment in the field to a central data logger or a mobile application, such as MeasureQuick (either Apple or Android-based). Instructor ’ s Quality Install / Smart Diagnostic Tools Class October 7 & 8 6715 Young Road, Little Rock What are Smart Diagnostic Tools?

PNNL Endorses HVACR Association ’ s “ Train the Trainer ” The Arkansas HVACR Association ’ s, “ Train the Trainer ” class and follow up program for the 16 HVACR training programs has been recognized by PNNL as a “ promising solution for unifying Arkansas’ HVACR educators on standards for residential HVAC system performance and installation, and ensures the educators are using state-of- the art equipment in the classroom. From information we’ve reviewed, the event aligns with the Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign and PNNL is hopeful that the event can used as a model to be implemented in other states. In closing, PNNL would like to offer a strong endorsement for ARHVACR’s Train the Trainer event. ” The letter of support and endorsement follows on the next page. We at the Association are heartened by the PNNL support and endorsement. We also are grateful to the Arkansas Office of Skills Development and the Arkansas Energy office for making this class possible. Without them it would only have been a pipe dream. With them it will change the future of HVACR education which will benefit the student, the college, the industry, and the homeowner. We offer our thanks to everyone involved. The Class is Free Over $3,000 in equipment is FREE

8:30 – 5:00 each day Contact tomhunt@arhvcr.org

To Whom it May Concern: On behalf of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), we are pleased to hear about the Arkansas HVACR Association’s (ARHVACR) “Train the Trainer” event for developing a higher quality residential HVACR contractor workforce in Arkansas through coordinated training on smart residential HVAC diagnostic tools. Improper installation or maintenance of residential HVAC systems is prevalent nationwide. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) understands this problem and has identified smart diagnostic tools as a potential solution for improving the in-field efficiency of residential HVAC systems. Smart diagnostic tools collect real-time measurements to detect faults, determine equipment performance, and suggest corrective actions a technician or installer can take to eliminate faults and improve equipment efficiency – leading to better quality installations and equipment maintenance. PNNL is leading DOE’s Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign, which aims to increase the adoption of smart diagnostic tools and to improve the in-field efficiency of residential HVAC systems nationwide. ARHVACR’s “Train the Trainer” event is a promising solution for unifying Arkansas’ HVACR educators on standards for residential HVAC system performance and installation, and ensures the educators are using state-of-the art equipment in the classroom. From information we’ve reviewed, the event aligns with the Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign and PNNL is hopeful that the event can used as a model to be implemented in other states. In closing, PNNL would like to offer a strong endorsement for ARHVACR’s Train the Trainer event. Feel free to contact me at cheryn.metzger@pnnl.gov with any general questions or christian.valoria@pnnl.gov for inquiries about the Residential HVAC Smart Diagnostic Tools Campaign.

Cheryn Metzger, PE PMP LEED AP (she/her/hers) Residential Program Manager Energy Efficiency Applications Team Lead

Energy Policy and Economics Group Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Cell: 707-623-7091 www.pnnl.gov www.pnnl.gov/projects/residential-hvac-smart-diagnostic-tools-campaign

Lunch & learn

You can also receive a free copy of the “Green Book” , a 28 page Flexible Duct Performance and Installation Standards. Use the following link for the download. https://airductcouncil.org/ADC_Free/ ADC_Green_Book_5th.pdf You can also receive a free online course by the Air Duct Council designed to school one in the proper use of flex duct. The link is https://airductcouncil.org/. Lunch & Learn Zoom Webinars are designed to inform the HVAC industry of code and manufacturer’s instruct ions so our industry can design and install systems right the first time. If you are not getting the Lunch & Learn Zoom notices, please text your email to 501- 487-8655. You can also send an email to tomhunt@arhvacr.org

September 13th Topic----- Flex Duct It is amazing how regions of a small state can become fixed in their methods. For example, central Arkansas and other areas don ’ t use flex and some municipalities even outlaw its use. In the northeast part of the state, flex is the product of choice for many contractors. We ’ re not sure how each region moved toward their present attitudes regarding flex but one thing is sure, there are many examples of its improper use. On Monday, September 13th at noon, Chief Inspector, Tony Woodard, and Tom Hunt will discuss Code related to design and installation of flex duct with special emphasis on Flexible Duct Performance & Installation Standards (5th edition)

HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

excellence that consumers have relied on for more than 100 years. Businesses looking to gain a competitive edge may consider joining BBB to assure current and future customers of their quality, service, and commitment to building trust. You know you do the business the right way, but even reputable HVAC businesses must distance themselves from bad actors who continually threaten the industry with shoddy work, deceptive practices, and overcharging. What customers complain about the most: • Slowness and Unresponsiveness • Pricing Dishonesty • Rudeness • Mistakes and Shoddiness Consumers turned to BBB.org nearly 1.8 million times in 2020 to research HVAC companies. (That’s more than 11 - thousand inquiries a day!) The BBB seal helps to immediately differentiate businesses in a competitive space. Nielsen research shows that 8/10 consumers will choose a company that advertises with the BBB seal over one that does not. In addition, BBB offers HVAC professionals industry insights and annual state of the industry reports to help HVAC businesses stand out from the rest and stay abreast of industry trends. While added trust and credibility is the main benefit of partnering with BBB, there are also additional apps, tools, and advertising services that make the partnership even more profitable. Contact us today with questions, concerns, or to learn more about BBB accreditation for your HVAC business!

Word Up From the Better Business Bureau In a world filled with misinformation, now more than ever, consumers are looking for businesses that they can trust. A recent Better Business Bureau (BBB) report shows that the $104 billion HVAC industry has been more resistant to economic strains (such as COVID-19) than other types of home improvement industries. In fact, the number of customer inquiries into HVAC businesses has spiked 16% from January to May 2021, versus the same period in 2020. Inquiries rose 14% in the same period in 2020 compared to 2019. With trust on the mind of many consumers, HVAC businesses have an opportunity to leverage customer service and care in order to better serve their customers. Home improvement projects can get expensive as consumers spend an average of $500 for HVAC services. BBB and IBIS World research shows that customers value certain traits from their providers. What customers value most: • Friendliness of Employees • Communication with Customers • Skill and Knowledge of the Project • Speed of Work With more people turning to BBB to find businesses they can trust, BBB Accredited HVAC companies differentiate themselves through a set of eight standards including, building trust, advertising honestly, being transparent, and more. BBB Standards for Trust are the cornerstone of business ethics and

Five Reasons Why TRUST Matters When Hiring an HVAC Business

Better Business Briefings

Key Insights When Considering an HVAC Business

100% complaint resolution rate for BBB Accredited HVAC businesses

+11,700 customer inquiries per day

HVAC ranks 2nd highest in the number of BBB Accredited Businesses

+1.7M consumers researched HVAC businesses at BBB.org in 2020

14% increase in the number of inquiries year-over-year

What Traits Customers Like Most

Customers spend more than $500 on average for each HVAC service

Hiring Checklist Find and research businesses first at BBB.org Check licensing and obtain several quotes for major projects

Friendliness of employees

Communication with customers Skill and knowledge of the project

Check references and read BBB Customer Reviews

Get everything in writing including brand names and warranties

How quickly the project is completed

"The BBB helps your business stand out. By standing by the BBB standards it shows that you care about your customers." - BBB Accredited HVAC business, CO

Source: IABBB Research, Jan - May 2020

Find Trusted HVAC Businesses at BBB.org

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HVACR NewsMagazine September 2021

State National Chapter News

also be noted that these credits are due to expire December 31, 2021 Tax Credit: 10% of cost up to $500 or a specific amount from $50-$300. Expires: December 31, 2021 Details: Must be an existing home & your principal residence. New construction and rentals do not apply.

Tax Credits for High Efficiency Systems

OK! Let’s start with the same thing stated by Energy Star at https://www.energystar.gov/about/fede ral_tax_credits * Disclaimer: The tax credit information contained within this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for expert advice from a professional tax/financial planner or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) I figure if Energy Star with all their money and political connections can’t unequivocally state a tax credit, neither can the NewsMagazine; however, it certainly gives one the information needed to pursue it with their tax professional. Here’s the deal according to Energy Star and IRS publications. Many of your high efficiency installations can quality for a homeowner federal tax credit. We’ll list them with the website you can use to verify. https://www.energystar.gov/about/fede ral_tax_credits/non_business_energy_pr operty_tax_credits It should also be noted that we are only including information for primary residences. The tax credit appears to be 10% of the cost up to a maximum of $500. However, there also appears to be a maximum based on the system installed. That amount is stated in the following listings. Also, it appears that you are limited to a maximum based on whatever you declared since 2005. So if you claimed $500 in the past, you would not be eligible to claim anything for this year. It should

Air Source Heat Pumps Tax Credit Amount: $300

Requirements Split Systems:

HSPF >= 8.5 EER >= 12.5 SEER >= 15 Package systems:

HSPF >= 8 EER >= 12 SEER >= 14

Air Conditioners Tax Credit Amount: $300

Requirements Split Systems:

SEER>= 16 EER >= 13 Package systems: SEER >= 14 EER >= 12 Gas Furnaces Tax Credit Amount: $150 Requirements AFUE >= 95

There is a caveat with gas furnaces. Energy Star states, “ Gas furnaces that are ENERGY STAR certified (except those for U.S. South only) …” This includes Arkansas. It appears that even though the counties in North / Northwest Arkansas that are in climate zone 4, they are still excluded. One could research that to see if there is an exception to their definition. We have not been able to make that determination.

Specializing in Custom Risk Reduction Programs, Cross Pointe is here to help protect your business, your employees and your family.  Commercial Property & Casualty Insurance  Bonds

 Employee Benefits  Personal Insurance

* Cross Pointe is proud to be an Arkansas HVCAR Association Endorsed Agency.

Since 1889

Cross Pointe is your Arkansas Commercial Insurance Specialists, providing affordable coverage and risk reduction services.

Nick Hall, CIC Sr. Risk Management Advisor nickh@cp-ins.com (501) 680-1186

Travis Hill Sr. Risk Management Advisor travish@cp-ins.com (479) 785-2912

Kyle Schnebelen Sr. Risk Management Advisor kyles@cp-ins.com (501) 831-5221

Cross Pointe Insurance Advisors  12410 Cantrell Rd., Ste. 200A  Little Rock, AR 72223 Cross Pointe Insurance Advisors  1120 Garrison Ave.  Fort Smith, AR 72901

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Cyber Liability

By Nick Hall Cross Pointe Insurance Advisors In Partnership with Arkansas HVACR Association I hope you have all had a great (and safe) Summer! I can only assume this heat has you all very busy. You may not be, but I know I am ready for the temperature to start dropping! Our Risk Management topic this Month is Cyber Liability . I am sure you have all heard about breaches at some of the largest companies in the world such as Home Depot, Target, and Equifax; but, what you may not hear about are the even more common breaches that affect companies like yours. CNBC Reported in 2020 that more than half of all small business suffered a breach within the last year. The Covid pandemic has only made things worse. With more workers logging into their computers remotely, hackers now have even more avenues to find their way into a business’s system. Munich Re estimates the total global economic cybercrime costs in 2021 to be $6 Trillion, up from $3 Trillion in 2015. You may find varying estimates according to the source, but one thing is for sure, the total economic impact of cybercrime is significant and growing. So, what is Cyber Liability? Cybersecurity Risk is the potential loss or harm related to technical infrastructure or the use of technology within an organization .

Those potential losses include the damage or destruction of data, monetary loss, theft of intellectual property, productivity loss, reputational harm, and more . While there are several types of incidents that can lead to a Cyber Liability claim, I want to expand on 3 of the most common – Data Breaches, Ransomware, and Social Engineering . • A Data Breach is a release of private information that may cause financial or reputational harm. This information can be your company’s private information such as Intellectual Property or Personal Private Information like your employees’ or customers’ Social Security Number, Credit Card or Bank Information, Medical Records, etc… A Data Breach can be due to a computer breach but can also be triggered by human error such as losing paper records or failure to keep their passwords secure. A Computer system breach does not necessarily have to occur to trigger a Cyber Liability incident! • Ransomware is a computer software that blocks access to your computer system until a sum of money is paid. Typically, in Ransomware incidents, hackers demand payment be made by

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employees how to spot and report potential cyber threats. As hackers continue to find new ways to infiltrate computer systems and monetize their access to those systems, Cyber Liability Insurance is evolving with them. Cyber Liability Insurance is so new that coverage forms vary from one carrier to the next and new coverages are being added onto these policies all the time. That is why you need a professional to talk to you about your needs and make sure that your policy has the appropriate terms and conditions to protect your business. Cyber Liability is a broad topic and this article is just scratching the surface. My hope is that you take away a few key points. • Every business regardless of industry or size has Cybersecurity Risk • The 3 most common Cyber Liability Claims are due to a Data Breach, Ransomware, and Social Engineering. • A combination of Cybersecurity best practices and Cyber Liability Insurance is the best way to protect yourself from Cyber Risks. • The Cyber Liability Insurance Market is evolving, and coverage forms vary significantly from one carrier to the next.

cryptocurrency before they will allow you back into your computer system so you can return to your daily tasks. Though in some cases the hackers threaten to delete all your data unless the ransom is paid. • Social Engineering is the art of manipulating someone to divulge sensitive or confidential information or to willingly send money to the “Social Engineer” without knowing it. Most commonly we see Social Engineering claims in the form of a wire transfer to a fraudulent account. The “Social Engineer” will send an e - mail to someone within the organization that looks exactly like it is coming from the Business Owner or CFO, asking that individual to wire money to Account #XXXX. That individual wires the money just like their manager asks them to. Only to find later that the request did not come from the Business Owner/CFO, the money has been withdrawn from that account, and the account has since been closed. We recommend both implementing Cybersecurity best practices and purchasing a Cyber Liability Insurance Policy to make sure that you are protected from potential threats. Some best practices include using multifactor authentication to log into all systems, especially those that store any private information, requiring strong password protection that must be updated on a regular basis, installing security systems like firewalls, anti-virus software, malware protection, etc… And regularly training

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What if they come in higher and you are 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 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 lose? (479) 424-4918 or (501) 581-1176

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.

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Kirk’s Corner

The start of heating season

The heating season is here, and with natural gas, your customers can count on the affordability of natural gas at low prices. "If your customers are considering updating their heating and water heating systems this season, we recommend they consider installing a condensing combination boiler," says Kirk Pierce, Energy Efficiency Consultant. These combi units provide space heating and hot water while supplying efficient heat output, lower heating costs, and a quieter operation. Plus, we offer a rebate of $1,500 for a combi boiler or furnace plus tankless water heater installation. To ensure that your customers are receiving the best possible deal — double-check with your manufacturers to see if they have rebates available in addition to our great high-efficiency rebate. If you have any questions about helping your customers, please reach out to me. I’ll be glad to help. Looking ahead

Timothy.Pierce@centerpointenergy.com or visit CenterPointEnergy.com/RebateScoop. For more information about natural gas, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/NaturalGasBenefits.

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NWTI Business & Industry 709 Old Missouri Rd., Springdale, Arkansas 72764 Michael Dewberry: mdewberry@nwti.edu 479-751-8824 SAU Tech 6415 Spellman Rd, East Camden, AR 71701 Eddie Horton : ehorton@sautech.edu 870-574-4500 Southeast Arkansas College 1900 Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71603 John Pyland : jpyland@seark.edu 870-543-5900 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 3000 West Scenic Drive, NLR 72206 Robert Dixon : rdixon@uaptc.edu 501-812-2200 UA Monticello / Crossett 1326 Hwy 52W, Crossett, AR 71635 William Campbell : campbellw@uamont.edu 870-460-2010 (501) 977-2053 UA Pulaski Tech 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. Add Your Name

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 Eric Smith : esmith@asumh.edu 870-508-6221 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@asub.edu 501-207-6221 East Arkansas Community College Newcastle Road, Forrest City, AR 72335 Robert Jackson : 870-633-5411 National Park College 101 College Drive, Hot Springs, 71913 Kelli Albrecht : 501-760-4349 501-760-4222 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 Michael Dewberry : mdewberry@nwacc.edu 870-391-3382

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• Want to start an in-house training program for your techs? • Want to add substance and training material that your techs can use anytime? • Want training that is affordable? • Want training that is easily accessible? The ESCO Group rolled out the newest addition to their training material intended for schools, companies, and techs that want to improve their knowledge and move up in their career. You may know ESCO as the premier provider of EPA 608 training but they have come a long way and their work in education is now unsurpassed for individual or organized--classroom education. Many college programs have adopted their accreditation program but ESCO also makes a plethora of educational materials available for everyone — at affordable pricing. So what is available? Recorded Webinars — Free Danfoss:  Expansion Device Characteristics, Part 1 & 2  Preparing Tomorrow’ W orkforce for Flammable Refrigerants Honeywell:  Fundamentals of Refrigeraton

Welcome to the ESCO Institute elearning center, the ESCO Learning Network (ELN). Here you can access

digital curriculum, immersive learning, streaming videos,

 Environmental Regulations  Choosing a Refrigerant  Vapor Compression Refrigeration Cycle  Thermodynamic Properties  Refrigerant Resources  Retrofitting HCFCs and HFCs  Environmental Systems Solutions  Mechanical Codes  Compressor Capacity  Refrigeration Design Fundamentals ESCO Courses — Affordable Fee  Brazing and Soldering 38 Lessons, $32.95  Refrigeration Cycle, Refrigerants, and Components Training 136 Lessons, $19.95  Basic Refrigeraton and Charging Procedures 59 Lessons, $29.95 specific aspect of what the average HVACR service technician is likely to encounter in the field. ELN webinars, industry news and the work bench series, a compilation of short, concise videos targeting

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 R-410 Safety Training 39 Lessons, $24.95  Gas Heating: Furnaces, Boilers, Components, and Controls 11 courses, $59.95  EPA 608 Preparatory Course Bundle $28.95  Workbench Training Series 7 courses, $2.95 monthly Technical Training Associates: Jim Johnson — Affordable Fee  Technical Training Asssociates Subscription 32 Courses $29.95 monthly  HVACR Troubleshooting Series: A Heat Pump That Won’t Cool 4 Lessons $16.95  HVACR Electrical Troubleshooting Component Testing Video 4 Lessons $20.95 Technical Training Associates: Jim Johnson Articles — Free  Heat Pump Wiring Diagrams  Air Flow Performance and How it Affects RefrigerationSystem Pressure  EEV Fundamentals If you want to know more about ESCO, click on the following box . You’ll be impressed with their offerings.

The HVACR Association opens your mind to success

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