Shift to the Future: identifying and correcting airflow issues with technology
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The second episode of Shift to the Future explored how modern technology solves common airflow problems in homes quickly and accurately. Seasoned HVACR industry expert Chris Hughes, of The Energy Conservatory (TEC), shared practical tips on how technicians can use advanced tools, like the TEC TrueFlow Grid, to improve airflow measurements, diagnose issues accurately, and deliver better results for homeowners.
Watch the episode and register to attend future Shift to the Future webcasts.
Highlights from the episode
Learning the basics of airflow measurement – Hughes shared that when he started, he used Total External Static Pressure (TESP) readings to gauge system performance. But as he took on more projects, he learned that even minor placement errors—like where to measure on setups with furnaces and coils—could throw off results. Getting these details right became essential.
Embracing new technologies – With new tools like TrueFlow and measureQuick®, Hughes emphasized that HVACR diagnostics as we know them are rapidly changing. These tools enable technicians to measure airflow and pressure with high accuracy, reducing reliance on estimations and minimizing callbacks. These have become essential resources for identifying and addressing issues precisely, leading to better results for technicians and homeowners alike.
Building confidence with data-backed solutions – Next, Hughes explained how data-driven visuals aids allow customers to picture system problems without navigating overwhelming details. This approach helps techs feel more confident when sharing their findings so that they can charge appropriately for their expertise.
Real-world fixes for common issues – New tools empower sales teams with the technical knowledge required to accurately assess and address load calculations and duct-related issues during installations. Hughes shared how TrueFlow’s newly introduced forecasting feature in the app helped improve installation outcomes for his client’s team, reducing internal conflicts between his sales and installation teams.
Hands-on demonstration with TrueFlow – Towards the end of the episode, Hughes performs a live demonstration of TrueFlow, showing how it uses the HVACR system’s fan to reliably measure airflow and static pressure. With differential pressure sensors on both sides, TrueFlow calibrates to the system’s setup, making it easier to get precise readings for better installation adjustments and improved performance.
Before concluding his demo, Hughes noted a new “forecast” feature in the app which allows for easy predictions of how specific adjustments, like changing the filter, could affect the system’s performance without needing extensive calculations, streamlining the troubleshooting process for HVACR professionals.
Watch the episode recording
Did you miss the latest Shift to the Future episode? Watch the recording here to catch up on everything you missed.
Join us for future episodes
Mark your calendar for the next episode of Shift to the Future. See the webcast’s upcoming episodes to get a sneak peek of new tools and technologies coming down the pipeline in the HVACR industry.
November 19: Kyle Ricciardi on small business challenges with tech.
December 3: Tersh Blissett on how to leverage AI in your business.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be the first to know about new industry trends and learn how to Shift to the Future!
Posted In: Office & Technology, Technical Tips, Technology
