In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with John Bartlett Founder and CEO of Brentwood Growth, a sell-side M&A advisory and consulting firm specializing in skilled trades businesses such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Part 2 delves deeper into the critical steps involved in preparing a business for sale, exploring various buyer types and transaction structures.

Brentwood Growth provides expert guidance to business owners across residential, industrial, and commercial sectors, working with service providers and contractors in industries including Boilers & Generators, Cleaning & Janitorial, Electrical, Elevator & Escalator, Fencing, Fire & Safety, Flooring, Foundation Repairs, Garage Door, Heat Pump, Home Appliance Service & Repair, Home Inspections, Industrial Equipment Service & Repair, Irrigation, Lawn Care, Mosquito & Pest, Painting, Paving, Plumbing, Pool Services, Property Management, Refrigeration, Restoration & Remediation, Roofing, Security, Solar Installation, Tank Removal, Waste Removal & Recycling, and Windows & Doors.

Brentwood Growth primarily assists two types of clients:

Sell: Business owners planning to sell in the near future, seeking insights into valuation, potential buyers, and transaction timelines.

Scale: Business owners focused on growing their companies with the goal of increasing value for a future sale or smoother self-management.

In this episode, John discusses effective ways to enhance business value by improving financial performance and mitigating risks. He provides valuable insights on strengthening management teams and shifting focus from project-based work to recurring service and maintenance models. Contractors will gain practical strategies to prepare their businesses for a successful transition.

Expect to Learn:

The step-by-step process of getting a business ready for sale.

Insights into different types of buyers and their acquisition strategies.

Effective financial planning and operational improvements to boost value.

How to identify and select the right buyer for your business.

The impact of various transaction structures on business sales.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Introduction to Part 2 with John Bartlett from Brentwood Growth. 

[01:30] - Why business owners often stay involved after a sale

[03:10] - Preparing a business for sale and steps for retiring owners

[12:12] - Three buyer types: private equity, strategic buyers, and owner-operators.

[15:53] - Message to private equity buyers emphasizing the need for skilled, properly trained technicians

[18:40] - Closing discussion on the importance of selling to the right buyer to maintain client trust

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca

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

Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com

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

Lambert Insurance Services: https://www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest John Bartlett on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlbartlett/

John Bartlett’s Bio : https://www.brentwood-growth.com/our-team/john-bartlett/

Brentwood Growth: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brentwood-growth/

Phone: 908-377-7807 Email: [email protected]

Follow the Host:

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

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

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

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

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with John Bartlett Founder and CEO of Brentwood Growth, a sell-side M&A advisor and consulting firm specializing in skilled trades businesses like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. This is Part 1 of their discussion, focusing on how business owners can grow and scale their companies to maximize value.

Brentwood Growth works with business owners in the residential, industrial, and commercial sectors, providing expert guidance for service providers and contractors across various industries, including Boilers & Generators, Cleaning & Janitorial, Electrical, Elevator & Escalator, Fencing, Fire & Safety, Flooring, Foundation Repairs, Garage Door, Heat Pump, Home Appliance Service & Repair, Home Inspections, Industrial Equipment Service & Repair, Irrigation, Lawn Care, Mosquito & Pest, Painting, Paving, Plumbing, Pool Services, Property Management, Refrigeration, Restoration & Remediation, Roofing, Security, Solar Installation, Tank Removal, Waste Removal & Recycling, and Windows & Doors.

Their clients typically fall into two categories:

Sell: Business owners looking to sell soon, seeking insights on valuation, buyer groups, and transaction timelines.

Scale: Business owners aiming to grow their business for a future sale or self-management, focused on increasing value over time.

John shares insights on increasing business worth by improving cash flow and reducing risks, highlighting strategies such as building a strong management team and transitioning from project-based to service and maintenance models. The episode provides actionable advice for contractors looking to future-proof their businesses and prepare for potential sales.

Expect to Learn:

1. How to determine your business's true value through cash flow analysis.

2. The importance of shifting from construction to service and maintenance for Predictable Revenue.

3. Key strategies to remove operational risks and boost marketability.

4. The role of strategic planning in long-term business growth.

5. How Brentwood Growth helps contractors navigate mergers and acquisitions.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] - Introduction to Part 1 with guest John Bartlett from Brentwood Growth 

[02:28] - Selling a Skilled Trades Business 

[05:15] - Growing and Scaling for a Future Sale 

[08:56]- Increasing Business Value 

[12:59] - Construction and the Economy & Importance of Service and Maintenance 

[16:16] - Small Changes to Increase Business Value 

[20:13] - Consistency and Growth: What We Can Learn from McDonald’s and the E-Myth  

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master:http://www.master.ca Cintas: http://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Supply House: http://www.supplyhouse.com

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

Lambert Insurance Services: https://www.lambert-ins.com/

Follow the Guest John Bartlett on:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johnlbartlett/

John Bartlett’s Bio : https://www.brentwood-growth.com/our-team/john-bartlett/

Brentwood Growth: www.linkedin.com/company/brentwood-growth/

Phone: 908-377-7807

Email: [email protected]

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com

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

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

Static pressure is the ballooning effect of a duct system and it's measured with a dual port manometer. Airflow is the measurement of air velocity (air speed) in the duct. Velocity is then converted to air flow using duct dimensions. Check out Jobber and all they have to offer. getjobber.com/hvacknowitall

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his discussion with David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea America Corp. This is Part 2 of their conversation, focusing on practical applications of heat pump technology and their performance in cold climates.

David shares insights from a unique case study conducted in Alaska, where Midea's heat pumps were tested under extreme winter conditions. The episode also highlights the importance of addressing building envelopes to optimize HVAC efficiency and includes valuable tips for technicians to ensure high-quality installations.

Gary and David further explore how advancements in heat pump technology have made these systems more reliable, efficient, and accessible, closing the gap between affordability and innovation.

Expect to Learn:

How Midea heat pumps excel in sub-zero conditions, as shown in an Alaska case study.

The impact of building envelope improvements on system efficiency.

Key installation tips to minimize callbacks and improve reliability.

Benefits of Midea’s modular air handlers for quick and easy installs.

How Midea combines affordability with advanced HVAC performance.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction to Part 2 with guest David Rames from Midea America Corp

[01:18] Addressing misconceptions about demand response programs

[04:01] How heat pumps operate efficiently in extreme cold climates

[08:23] Alaska case study: Testing Midea heat pumps in harsh conditions

[11:31] Heating Imbalance in Old Buildings with Radiators and Boilers

[14:19] The Evolution of Heat Pump Technology: Mitsubishi vs. Other Manufacturers

[18:00] Installation Tips for Technicians to Minimize Callbacks

[19:33] Pressure from Management on Technicians and the Importance of Proper Installation

[22:06] Midea’s efforts to support the next generation of HVAC professionals

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: www.master.ca

Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest David Rames on:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-rames-06742814/ 

Midea America Corp: www.linkedin.com/company/midea-america-corp/  

Follow the Host: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

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

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea America Corp. This is Part 1 of this discussion, exploring advancements in heat pump technology and HVAC industry challenges. David, a product management expert with years of experience in HVAC innovation, discusses the evolution of heat pumps, addressing misconceptions about their performance in cold climates and their supposed complexity. Gary and David also examine the issues of equipment oversizing, the value of proper installation, and the advantages of communicating systems over traditional setups for enhanced comfort and efficiency. Expect to Learn: Discover how modern heat pumps are designed to perform efficiently in extreme cold climates. Learn why today’s heat pumps are easier to install, troubleshoot, and maintain. Understand the issues caused by oversized systems and how proper sizing improves efficiency and comfort. Explore the advantages of communicating systems over traditional 24V setups for better control and performance. Find out how Midea’s training programs help contractors deliver reliable and optimized installations. Episode Highlights: [00:33] Introduction to the episode and guest David Rames from Midea America Corp [02:27] How heat pumps have evolved to deliver reliable performance in cold climates [03:52] Debunking myths about heat pump complexity and durability [06:59] The importance of proper installation and managing power fluctuations [12:01] The problem with oversized HVAC systems and why sizing matters [19:23] Comparing communicating systems vs. 24V setups and their differences [23:43] Midea trains contractors on the benefits of communicating systems and over-the-air updates This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: www.master.ca Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com Follow the Guest David Rames on:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-rames-06742814/  Midea America Corp: www.linkedin.com/company/midea-america-corp/   Follow the Host: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with Jesse Stewart, National Training Manager at NAVAC HVAC to discuss the industry's transition to A2L refrigerants and the essential tools for safe and efficient handling. Jesse, a technical trainer with experience in HVAC tools and safety practices, shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of A2L refrigerants. He focuses on debunking myths and highlighting safety measures. Gary and Jesse discuss tool compliance, best practices, and the importance of training in preparing HVAC professionals for upcoming changes.

Expect to Learn: What Are A2L Refrigerants?: Understand what A2L refrigerants are, why the industry is moving toward them, and clear up common misunderstandings. Tools That Get the Job Done: Learn about the tools that are compatible with A2L refrigerants, including vacuum pumps and recovery machines, and what makes them compliant. Staying Safe on the Job: Practical advice on reducing risks by using the right tools and following best practices for handling A2L refrigerants. Recovery Cylinder Basics: How to properly identify, label, and maintain recovery cylinders for safe use with A2L refrigerants. The Value of Good Information: Why it’s essential to rely on trustworthy sources and stay up-to-date through proper training.

Episode Highlights: [00:00] Welcoming Jesse Stewart and introduction to A2L refrigerants [01:42] Jesse’s background and expertise in HVAC tools and safety [01:59] Understanding A2L refrigerants and addressing misconceptions [05:37] Key features of A2L-compliant tools [12:37] Guidelines for marking and maintaining recovery cylinders [14:24] Adapters and hoses for A2L compatibility [17:25] Industry changes and the importance of training

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: www.master.ca Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest Jesse Stewart on:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-stewart%F0%9F%94%B8-180054205/  NAVAC HVAC: www.linkedin.com/company/navac-hvac/ 

Follow the Host: Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/⁠ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Joshua Souders from Copeland for the second part of their conversation about advanced compressor technology. Josh brings his deep knowledge of HVAC systems to the table, focusing on variable-speed compressors, vapor injection, and how these innovations are changing the game for heat pumps.

They dive into topics like how variable-speed compressors work, the challenges of oil delivery, and why vapor injection is key to making heat pumps effective in extremely cold climates. They also tackle common misconceptions about heat pump performance in freezing temperatures and discuss the DOE Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge. If you’re in the HVAC industry, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Expect to Learn:

How Variable-Speed Compressors Operate: A clear breakdown of how these compressors adjust to meet heating and cooling demands while boosting efficiency.

The Benefits of Vapor Injection: An explanation of how this technology improves heating capacity and efficiency, especially in colder climates.

Advancements in Heat Pumps: Insights into how today’s heat pumps are designed to perform well, even in extreme cold weather.

Debunking Heat Pump Myths: Addressing the outdated belief that heat pumps can’t function effectively in freezing temperatures.

Practical HVAC Knowledge: Useful advice on understanding, maintaining, and selecting compressors for optimal performance.

Episode Highlights:

[00:32] Welcoming Joshua Souders and Recap of Part One

[02:22] What Variable-Speed Compressors are and How they Work

[04:24] Addressing Oil Delivery Challenges in Variable-Speed Compressors

[08:58] What is Vapor Injection and How It Improves Heat Pump Performance

[13:52] Using Vapor Injection to Keep Heat Pumps Running in Extreme Cold

[17:19] Clearing Up Misconceptions About Heat Pumps in Freezing Weather

[23:35] Heat Pump Costs, Incentives, and Breaking Down Barriers to Adoption

[27:31] Closing Thoughts: What’s Next for Heat Pumps and Compressor Technology

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Joshua Souders on: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/ 

Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ 

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

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

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Joshua Souders from Copeland for part one of an enlightening two-part series on compressors and their critical role in modern HVAC systems. Josh, a seasoned expert in compressor technology, shares his wealth of knowledge, diving deep into the mechanics and benefits of single-speed, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors.

Gary and Josh discuss how each type of compressor operates, the unique advantages they offer, and their application in heat pumps, particularly in cold climates. They also touch on the challenges and misconceptions surrounding heat pump performance in sub-freezing temperatures. Packed with technical details, and expert advice, this episode is a must-listen for HVAC professionals looking to stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Expect to Learn:

Understanding Compressors: Explore the key differences and benefits of single-speed, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors.

Improving Heat Pumps: Learn how advanced compressors keep heat pumps running smoothly, even in extreme cold.

Clearing Up Misconceptions: Address common myths about heat pump performance in freezing temperatures.

Innovative Solutions: Discover how vapor injection technology enhances heating efficiency in cold climates.

Expert Advice: Get practical tips on choosing and maintaining compressors for better performance and reliability.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] – Podcast Introduction

[02:05] – Welcoming Joshua Souders and Setting the Stage for Compressor Talk

[03:34] – The Basics: How Single-Speed Compressors Work and Their Limitations

[07:54] – Exploring Two-Stage Compressors: Benefits, Functionality, and Comfort Improvements

[11:21] – Dehumidification and Energy Efficiency with Two-Stage Compressors

[18:56] – Digital Scroll Compressors: Applications and Differences Compared to Two-Stage Models

[21:49] – Variable-Speed Compressors: The Future of HVAC Systems and Global Adoption Trends

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Joshua Souders on: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/ 

Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ 

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Rachel Samala, CEO of California Mechanical, Heating & Air Conditioning. She is an HVAC technician, content creator known as ‘Miss Mini Split’ on Instagram. Based in San Diego, Rachel has over a decade of experience in the HVAC trade and has built a reputation for her innovative approaches to mini split installations.

Gary and Rachel dive into the essentials of mini split installation, offering practical tips, unique mounting techniques, and insights into the growing popularity of mini splits in California’s housing market. Rachel shares how her dedication to precision, affordability, and customer satisfaction has made her a trusted expert in the field.

Through anecdotes from her career and hands-on advice, Rachel inspires HVAC professionals to adopt efficient methods, maintain high standards of installation, and embrace the evolving technology of mini splits.

Expect to Learn:

Mini Splits in Affordable Housing: Discover why mini splits are a game-changer for California’s housing crisis, providing cost-effective and efficient HVAC solutions.

Mounting Mini Splits Securely: Learn Rachel’s innovative methods for mounting outdoor units, including wall brackets and threaded rod techniques inspired by Fujitsu’s guidelines.

The Importance of Quality Brands: Insights on choosing the right mini split brands for durability and performance, and why Rachel prefers AC Pro for its balance of quality and cost.

Flare Techniques and Tools: A deep dive into making leak-proof flares using spin bits, the Navac flare tool, and why Nylog is Rachel’s secret weapon for perfect seals.

Work-Life Balance as a Technician: Rachel shares her personal experiences juggling family life and a thriving HVAC career, including the challenges of bringing her kids to job sites.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] - Guest Introduction

[02:14] - Welcoming Rachel Samala, AKA Miss Mini Split, and her HVAC journey

[05:02] - Mini Splits in Affordable Housing: How they address California’s housing crisis

[06:29] - Choosing the Right Brand: Rachel’s insights on balancing cost and quality

[12:01] - Mounting Techniques: Wall brackets, threaded rod methods, and roof solutions

[20:42] - Flaring and Sealing: Tools, techniques, and tips for leak-proof connections

[25:33] - Using Nylog: Application on flares and addressing system concerns

[31:05] - Evacuation Best Practices: Vacuum setups and ensuring system performance

[35:14] - Final Tips: Rachel’s advice for new and experienced HVAC technicians

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Rachel Samala on: 

Instagram - Miss Mini Split: www.instagram.com/missminisplit/

California Mechanical, Heating & Air Conditioning: www.calimech.com/

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

Gary McCreadie takes us through a quick recap of 2024 and what's to come in 2025 for HVAC professionals. Check out our latest article on AI and how if will effect the HVAC industry. https://hvacknowitall.com/blog/navigating-ai-and-automation-a-technicians-guide-for-2025 Follow the Host: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/   Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Brent Lammert, who leads the Thermal Imaging Business Unit at Testo Instruments - North America. In part two of this insightful discussion, Brent dives deeper into the transformative applications of thermal imaging for HVAC professionals, showcasing its practical uses in diagnosing and resolving real-world challenges with speed and precision.

Gary and Brent explore specific scenarios where thermal cameras excel, such as identifying refrigerant restrictions, pinpointing hydronic system issues, and inspecting steam humidification systems. Brent also explains the role of thermal imaging during blower door tests to detect building envelope leaks and highlights the cost-saving potential for HVAC businesses using this technology.

From troubleshooting complex systems to improving customer satisfaction through faster, more accurate diagnostics, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring insights for HVAC technicians. If you’re looking to expand your toolkit and provide next-level service, thermal imaging might just be the “best-kept secret” you need to unlock.

Expect to Learn:

Thermal Imaging in Action: How HVAC professionals can use thermal cameras to identify refrigerant restrictions, ductwork inefficiencies, and equipment faults quickly and accurately.

Diagnosing Building Envelope Issues: Using thermal imaging during blower door tests to pinpoint air leaks and improve energy efficiency in homes and buildings.

Hydronic and Steam Systems: Practical applications of thermal cameras for troubleshooting issues in hydronic heating systems and steam humidification setups.

Refrigerant Leak Insights: Understanding how thermal cameras can identify refrigerant leaks by detecting temperature anomalies in unexpected areas.

Business Benefits of Thermal Tools: How thermal imaging can enhance service quality, save time, and open up new revenue opportunities for HVAC contractors.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] – Podcast Introduction & Recap of Part 1

[02:24] – Thermal Imaging for HVAC Technicians: Identifying Building vs. System Issues

[05:27] – Using Thermal Cameras to Troubleshoot Refrigeration Systems and Filter Dryers

[06:56] – Hydronic Systems: Pinpointing Zone Control Issues with Thermal Imaging

[10:07] – Can Thermal Cameras Detect Refrigerant Leaks? Brent Explains the Process

[18:29] – Thermal Imaging and Blower Door Tests: A Powerful Combination

[20:26] – Testo’s Vision: Affordable Thermal Imaging Tools for Field Technicians

[22:25] – Future Educational Campaign: Tips and Tricks for Using Thermal Cameras

[24:40] – Conclusion: Key Takeaways on the Value of Thermal Imaging and Its Impact on HVAC Workflows

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Brent Lammert on: 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brentlammert/

Testo Instruments - North America: www.linkedin.com/company/testo-usa/ 

Follow the Host:

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

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/