Water Issues – Spidey Sense

This episode of the HVAC School podcast dives deep into the often-overlooked but critical topic of water issues in HVAC systems. Bryan and Bert discuss the various causes of water leaks and condensation problems, and they explain how to prevent them. They emphasize that water damage is not an inevitable part of HVAC systems and that with proper attention to detail and understanding of the underlying causes, most issues can be prevented.

“Spidey Sense” refers to a heightened situational awareness that allows technicians to anticipate and prevent water-related problems. Common water-related problems include drain backups, improper trap depth, and freezing issues, and Bryan and Bert provide practical advice on how to identify and address these problems. The conversation also covers the importance of proper installation techniques, including the correct placement of float switches, insulation of copper lines, and the pitching of secondary drain pans.

Bryan and Bert highlight the need for technicians to think critically about the root causes of water issues rather than relying on quick fixes or common misconceptions. They debunk myths such as thermostats being set too low and causing freezing, and they emphasize the importance of addressing underlying airflow problems. They also discuss the challenges of condensation in humid climates and the importance of setting proper customer expectations.

Key topics covered in the podcast include:

• Common causes of water leaks in HVAC systems
• The importance of proper drain installation and maintenance
• Freezing issues and their real causes
• Secondary drain pan installation and common mistakes
• The role of static pressure in drainage problems
• Condensation issues on outdoor units and in humid climates
• The importance of proper insulation for copper lines and drains
• Best practices for installing and connecting float switches
• Debunking myths about thermostat settings causing freezing
• The need for critical thinking and thorough investigation of water issues

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