HVAC Know It All Podcast

Overview

Episodes

Recent Episodes

DEC 1, 2025

The Clear Drain PVC Solves the Root Cause of HVAC Drain Line Clogs with Jeff Ponce

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Jeff Ponce, Senior Product Manager at RectorSeal, about Clear Drain PVC and the science behind better condensate management. Jeff explains how traditional PVC drain lines develop clogs caused by bacteria and biofilm buildup and how Clear Drain PVC solves this with a hydrophobic surface that prevents growth. They discuss why zinc is used in the product, how it creates a slippery surface instead of killing bacteria, and the research and development behind its creation. Jeff also shares how the product was first used in grocery store refrigeration systems in Europe and how it is now helping HVAC contractors prevent costly water damage and maintenance issues.

This episode discusses the challenges HVAC technicians face with condensate drain management and how new technology can prevent common clogs. Jeff Ponce from RectorSeal explains how Clear Drain PVC was created to stop bacteria and slime from sticking inside pipes. He shares how the zinc mixed into the PVC fills tiny pores, creating a smooth, slippery surface that keeps drains clean. Jeff also talks about how the product was first used in grocery store refrigeration systems in Europe and later tested for HVAC use in the United States. His focus is on helping contractors reduce maintenance issues, prevent water damage, and keep systems running efficiently.

Expect to Learn:

How condensate drain problems start and why they cause major HVAC issues.
Why do traditional PVC pipes allow bacteria and biofilm to grow inside?
How Clear Drain PVC from RectorSeal prevents buildup with a smooth, hydrophobic surface.
The role of zinc in creating a safer and more effective drain solution.
How this technology was developed, tested, and proven in real-world HVAC and refrigeration systems.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Jeff Ponce

[02:09] The problem with condensate drain lines

[04:11] Why Perfect Systems Still Get Clogged

[06:09] Copper vs. aluminum coils and drain pan solutions

[10:06] Clear Drain PVC: The "Slip & Slide" Solution

[13:04] The Science of Biofilm and How Clogs Form

[18:36] The Grocery Store Origin Story

[24:35] Water damage from clogged drains

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at SupplyHouse!

Follow the Guest Jeff Ponce on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ponce-jeff-12109/

RectorSeal: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rectorseal/

Follow the Host:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

26 MIN

NOV 26, 2025

What HVAC Techs Must Know to Start the Business Right and Stay Legal with Robin and Ian

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes discuss the foundational steps of starting your own HVAC business with Robin Henry, Owner of Pinnacle Building Performance and Ian Schotanus, The HR Guy and Co-owner of The Big Picture Consulting. From forming an LLC to hiring your first employee and handling subcontractors, the conversation focuses on the gritty, real-world decisions entrepreneurs must make. The episode features firsthand accounts from Robin Henry and Ian Schotanus, delivering both practical and legal perspectives on launching and scaling an HVAC business.

Expect to Learn:

The real-life journey of launching an HVAC business from scratch.
Legal and tax differences between sole proprietorship, LLC, and S Corp.
When and how to hire your first employee or consider using subcontractors.
Practical field decisions like truck outfitting, insurance, and storage options.
How administrative responsibilities grow and how to manage them efficiently.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction & Why Start an HVAC Business

[00:03:37] - Legal & Tax Steps for Starting Out

[00:05:51] - Risk Management & Insurance Must-Haves

[00:08:45] - Field Startup Essentials: Tools, Truck, and Branding

[00:12:08] - Storage Solutions & Work-Life Separation

[00:16:26] - Navigating Local Licences and Utility Rebates

[00:18:55] - Hiring Your First Employee vs. Using Subs

Follow Guest Robin Henry on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-henry-3a460482

Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/pinnaclebuildingperformance/?hl=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__

Company's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinnaclebp

Company's Website: https://www.pinnaclebuildingperformance.com/about-us/

Follow Guest Ian Schotanus on:

Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-big-picture-consulting

Company's Website: https://thebigpictureconsulting.com/about-us

Company's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebigpictureconsulting/

Follow the Hosts:

Follow Furman Haynes on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/WorkHero-61562122449748/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__

Follow Gary McCreadie on:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

24 MIN

NOV 24, 2025

Air Quality Hazards in Construction for Property Buyers to Demand Clean Ducts - Richard Turner Part 2

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Richard Turner, owner of Modern PURAIR. They discuss the realities of duct cleaning in both residential and commercial spaces. Richard explains the challenges of cleaning systems after fires, poor construction practices, and general dust buildup over time. They discuss how better design and proper filtration could reduce the need for cleaning, but shortcuts in the building process keep the industry busy. The episode also touches on consumer awareness, filter options, and avoiding scams in the duct cleaning world.

Gary and Richard talk about the real issues with dust in ductwork and why regular duct cleaning matters. Richard explains how systems fill with dust over time, especially when filters are poor or installations are rushed. They discuss the differences between residential and commercial jobs, and how cleaning methods change based on the setup. Richard also shares how poor construction and cheap choices by builders lead to long-term air quality problems. They wrap up by stressing the need for better education, cleaner installs, and offering homeowners real options to improve indoor air.

Expect to Learn:

How dust builds up in duct systems and why regular cleaning is needed.
Why new construction often leads to dirty ductwork before homeowners move in.
How poor design and cheap filters reduce air quality and increase cleaning needs.
Why do some builders skip cleaning and leave it up to the homeowner?
How to spot scams in duct cleaning and choose a trusted company instead.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Richard Turner in Part 02

[01:40] - How Commercial Duct Cleaning Works

[03:55] - Air Quality Data & Customer Concerns

[06:45] - Why Ducts Get Dirty: Design & Filtration Issues

[10:08] - The Importance of Cleaning After Construction

[14:00] - Dealing with Duct Cleaning Scams

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Richard Turner on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-turner-4817b338/

Modern PURAIR: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-purair/

Website:

Modern PURAIR: https://modernpurair.com/

Follow the Host:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

16 MIN

NOV 21, 2025

HVAC System Myths for Property Managers to Reduce Air Contamination with Richard Turner Part 1

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie speaks with Richard Turner, owner of Modern PURAIR and a professional duct cleaner with experience in commercial HVAC systems and restoration work. Richard explains the importance of proper duct cleaning and how poor methods can actually make indoor air quality worse. He walks through the correct process, tools, and safety steps for effective cleaning, especially when dealing with older or damaged ductwork. The conversation also covers filtration, air purifiers, and the safe use of disinfectants and deodorizers in duct systems. Richard shares insights from real jobs and explains how clean systems support healthier air in homes and buildings.

In this episode, Richard Turner, owner of Modern PURAIR, shares what really goes into proper duct cleaning and why doing it wrong can cause more harm than good. He talks with Gary about the steps professionals should take to protect HVAC systems during cleaning, and how different tools are used for different types of ductwork. Richard explains how things like air purifiers and filters can help keep systems clean and reduce dust in homes. They also talk about cleaning after smoke, mold, or pet damage, and how safe products can help remove odors and bacteria. Richard shows how clean ducts support better air quality and healthier living spaces.

Expect to Learn:

Why duct cleaning done the wrong way can harm indoor air quality.
How professionals safely clean HVAC systems using the right tools and steps.
Why filters and air purifiers matter for keeping air clean in homes.
How cleaning helps reduce dust, odors, and bacteria from pets, mold, or smoke.
What makes professional duct cleaning different from DIY or cheap services?

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Richard Turner in Part 1

[02:43] - A Common Duct Cleaning Mistake

[04:16] - Step-by-Step Professional Process

[07:41] - Agitation Tools: Whips & Brushes

[09:31] - Do Return Air Filters Help?

[13:27] - The Truth About HVAC Filters

[18:54] - Deodorizing & Chemical Treatments

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/

property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Richard Turner on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-turner-4817b338/

Modern Purair: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-purair/

Website:

Modern Purair: https://modernpurair.com/

Follow the Host:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

22 MIN

NOV 17, 2025

Trades Are Losing Talent for HVAC Leaders to Fix Culture by Teaching Respect with Kyle Smith Part 2

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Kyle Smith, an HVAC technician and account manager at MK Mechanical, LLC. They discuss the importance of mentorship in the trades and how creating a supportive learning environment can help new technicians thrive. Kyle shares his experience of teaching the next generation through patience and hands-on guidance, rather than through harsh criticism. They talk about the value of education and the role of self-education in becoming a successful technician. The episode also covers how building a positive culture within companies can lead to better retention and stronger team dynamics.

Gary and Kyle discuss how creating a positive, supportive environment helps new HVAC techs succeed by focusing on teaching instead of yelling. They explain why some older techs struggle to connect with younger ones and how respect and clear expectations can improve teamwork. Kyle shares advice on mentoring, like being patient, using hands-on learning, and taking time to educate rather than criticize. They also talk about using resources like YouTube and phones to help techs learn outside of work hours. They finish by emphasizing the importance of training the next generation and creating a culture of learning in the HVAC industry.

Expect to Learn:

How mentorship and patient teaching help new HVAC techs build skills.
Why does creating a supportive environment lead to better retention in the trade?
How does asking the right questions and using hands-on training improve learning?
Why encouraging self-education outside of work helps techs grow faster.
How to build a company culture focused on respect, teamwork, and education.