#velocity

Tech Tips:

A few weeks ago, I was hired to consult on a multi-family new construction project. The building was already framed, and the ducts were roughed in. The owner of the building was concerned with the quality of the ductwork. He noticed that the HVAC company was not following the mechanical engineer's plans. This was my […]

The Ten Duct Commandments (Plus a Few More)

This article was written by my good friend, Neil Comparetto. He is one of the all-around best dudes in the industry and a guy who practices what he preaches on duct design. Thanks, Neil! These are some fundamentals for designing and installing duct systems that I’ve learned over the years. Included are links to […]

Reading CFM and Duct Velocity with a Testo 510i, the Smart Probe app and a Pitot Tube

Reading CFM and Duct Velocity In this video, we cover the basics of using the Testo 510i with a pitot tube to do a duct traverse and easily calculate Velocity in FPM and volume in CFM on a small 8″ duct. Using this method is handy because you can use the reliable, accurate and inexpensive […]

Measuring Airflow Podcasts w/ Jim Bergmann

In this two-part podcast series, Jim Bergmann covers measuring airflow in HVAC systems. He covers a wide range of airflow measurement instrumentation and readings. In the HVAC industry, many techs confuse static pressure for airflow. Although you need static pressure to have airflow, it is NOT airflow and can fluctuate rather wildly depending on the […]

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Our latest Podcast

HVAC School – For Techs, By Techs

Real training for HVAC ( Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) Technicians. Including recorded tech training, interviews, diagnostics and general conversations about the trade.

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, Bryan interviews Zach from Southeast Clean Air Solutions about the intricacies of professional duct cleaning. Zach specializes in addressing duct cleaning challenges specific to the Southeastern climate, with a particular focus on fiberglass-lined ducts. The conversation delves into the complexities of cleaning different types of duct systems, highlighting the significant variations in time, technique, and approach depending on the duct materials and home configuration.

The discussion reveals that duct cleaning is far more nuanced than many homeowners realize. A typical residential duct cleaning can take between six to eight hours, with metal ductwork being significantly faster to clean than flexible ducts or fiberglass-lined systems. Zach emphasizes the importance of careful cleaning techniques, especially with delicate flex ducts that can easily be punctured or damaged during the cleaning process. He recommends a two-person approach, with one team member working inside the home and another in the attic or crawl space to ensure thorough and safe cleaning.

Beyond the cleaning process, the podcast explores critical maintenance strategies for maintaining clean and efficient HVAC systems. Zach and Bryan discuss the importance of proper filtration, home maintenance, and understanding when duct cleaning is truly necessary. They challenge the common misconception of a fixed cleaning schedule, instead advocating for system assessment based on specific conditions like household dust, humidity, and the health needs of home occupants.

Key Topics Covered:

Duct cleaning techniques for different duct materials (metal, flexible, fiberglass-lined)
Time requirements for professional duct cleaning
Challenges of cleaning ducts in various home configurations
Importance of proper filtration and maintenance
Factors determining duct cleaning frequency
Risks associated with poorly maintained duct systems
Two-person approach to thorough and safe duct cleaning
Specialized considerations for homes in humid climates
Post-cleaning sealant application for fiberglass-lined ducts

Learn more about NADCA and find certified duct cleaning contractors at https://nadca.com/.

Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool.

Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 6th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.