Rob 'Doc' Falke has been writing articles for the Hotmail newsletter for quite some time. His technical knowledge and expertise have filled his articles with information that contractors use for reference and continue to come back to ContractingBusiness.com to read, even months or years after they've been published. Below is a collection of ‘best-of’ articles for your reference and enjoyment!
What Can You Do To Improve HVAC System Performance?
One question I often hear from HVAC professionals is "Doc, if there was just one thing I could do for each system to improve performance the most, what would it be?" Let's take a look at the answer to that question as it pertains to your specific role in this industry.
How to Find Hidden Duct Obstructions
So, you discover a supply duct with no airflow coming out of the register. The fan is on, the damper is open and the other registers have airflow. The obvious conclusion is a blocked duct. The challenge is locating the obstruction so you can fix it. Let’s take a look at how to locate hidden duct blockage with a pressure gauge and several 3/16-in. test holes.
Home Performance: Can HVAC Contractors Partner With Energy Raters? Why Yes They Can, and Should
Recently, Rob Falke encountered a group of energy raters who stepped outside of their normal comfort zone and embraced the idea that the average HVAC system operates below 60% of rated capacity. They admitted that without measuring and rating the operating efficiency of HVAC systems, the typical home energy audit falls drastically short of revealing a home’s true energy story.
HVAC Service: Quick Building Pressure Diagnostics
The heat is on. Summer is beating down on us and it’s bound to stick around for a while. Could a five-minute building pressure test provide the answer your customers have been longing for?
The Principals of Single-phase Voltage Measurement in HVAC Systems
Correctly measuring and interpreting voltage is essential to every HVAC professional in the field. Installers, maintenance technicians, and service technicians measure voltage daily to gain insight into the electrical functions essential for proper mechanical system equipment operation. Let’s take a look at the procedures for measuring single-phase voltage.
The Evolution of the Definition of HVAC Efficiency
During a recent industry committee webinar, an extended discussion took place that was very significant for the future of the HVAC industry. The discussion was centered on defining HVAC efficiency. Initially it was argued that efficiency could only be determined by following HVAC industry design standards. But then it was proposed that without proper installation, the intent of the design could never be met. Then the conversation jumped to a whole new level that took the committee by surprise.
Rob “Doc” Falke serves the industry as president of National Comfort Institute an HVAC based training company and membership organization. If you're an HVAC contractor or technician interested in a free retro-commissioning summary procedure, contact Doc at [email protected] or call him at 800-633-7058. Go to NCI’s website at nationalcomfortinstitute.com for free information, articles and downloads.