REPTalk - The HVAC Podcast

Learn why this product is makes HVAC systems efficient, how it will be available for electrical and HVAC distribution, and why builders are going to go ALL-In on Comfy-Light!  Exciting time! 

Learn why Comfy-Light is a huge win for everyone in the home building industry. It's going to be the future of how builders provide air and light into buildings. 

Learn about the fixture that's replacing traditional registers and grilles in homes. Perfect for new builds or home renovations. Learn more about Comfy-Light with the inventor and 2 builders who are using the product in their homes. 

From its air and light in one discreet unit, to the throwdown design, and extending the life of HVAC systems... one thing is clear. Comfy-Light is here to stay. Learn more about this innovative product from the inventor and two builders. 

Comfy-Light is truly a bright idea. It makes sense to builders immediately after seeing it. You'll wonder why it hadn't been invented before. Learn more about this innovative product changing the way builders build, and how HVAC and electricians work together. 

In this episode of REP Talk, learn more about Comfy-Light, the product builders never knew they needed. Learn what it is, how it was invented, and why it's going to change the way home builders provide air and light into rooms, and how homeowners look at ceilings. 

In this episode of REP Talk, we'll be discussing why measuring your customer's HVAC systems in a down market is great for business. As any HVAC technician knows, a key part of providing excellent service is understanding the specific needs of each customer's system. By taking the time to properly measure and assess a customer's system, you can ensure that you're providing the best possible service. In addition, measuring systems in a down market can help you to build a base of loyal customers who are more likely to recommend your services to others. So if you're looking to provide outstanding HVAC service, be sure to tune in to this episode of REP Talk.

HVAC technicians are in a unique position to help improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) for their clients. By learning about the different ways to improve IAQ, HVAC businesses can give their customers a valuable service that can help improve their health and well-being. At the same time, businesses that focus on IAQ solutions can enjoy a number of benefits, including increased customer loyalty and referrals, as well as a competitive edge in the marketplace. When it comes to IAQ, there's no reason not to ramp up your team's training. The benefits are too great to ignore.

As a business owner, it's important to have a solid understanding of your finances. After all, your business' success depends on it! That's why we're excited to have our guests on the newest episode of REP Talk. Ruth King is an expert on the subject and she's going to share her insights on how to manage your HVAC business' finances. We'll talk about everything from bookkeeping to budgeting, and everything in between.

HVAC contractors can create value for their customers by providing them with quality services and products that meet their needs. In addition, HVAC contractors can grow their revenue by offering their customers discounts on products and services, as well as loyalty programs that give customers rewards for returning business. By creating value for their customers and growing their revenue, HVAC contractors can expand their business and make it more successful.

HVAC contractors can help their customers make their own buying decisions by providing them with accurate and up-to-date information. Customers need to know the options that are available to them, as well as the pros and cons of each option. In addition, they need to know how much it will cost to purchase and install the system, and how much it will cost to operate it over time. HVAC contractors can provide this information in a clear and concise manner, allowing customers to make an informed decision about their purchase. By helping customers make their own buying decisions, HVAC contractors can ensure that they are happy with their purchase and that they will continue to use their services in the future.

In today's economy, many consumers are looking for financing options when it comes to making big purchases. If your HVAC business doesn't offer financing, you're likely to lose out on a lot of potential customers. There are a few different financing options you can offer your customers. You can partner with a bank or credit union to offer loans, or you can use in-house financing. There are also a few different leasing options available. By providing financing options for your customers, you'll be able to stay competitive in today's market and keep your business thriving.

As an HVAC contracting business, you know the value of HVAC and IAQ products and how they can improve your customers' lives. But how do you take your knowledge and turn it into sales? In this episode of REP Talk, Chris Craft breaks it down for you. He explains that it all starts with approaching customers with the problem you find, creating bundles, and selling more. By following his tips, you'll be able to increase your sales and make a real difference in people's lives. Thanks for watching!

In recent years, there has been a shift in the HVAC industry towards indoor air quality (IAQ). This shift is being driven by a combination of factors, including increased awareness of the importance of IAQ and advances in technology that have made it easier to improve IAQ. The most successful HVAC contractors are those who have been able to adapt to this shift and make IAQ a focus of their business. 

Times are tough. A recession or inflation, coupled with a slow season, can hit businesses hard, and many contractors are looking for ways to save money and stay afloat. While slashing prices seems like the obvious solution, it can be difficult to maintain profitability when you're constantly competing with others on price. So how can you maintain profitability and grow your business? One way is through HVAC service agreements. Here's how they can benefit your business during a down market.

In this tough economy, it is more important than ever to keep your customers happy and healthy. There are plenty of small things that can be done without breaking the bank--like providing them with quality HVAC service whenever they need it most or recommending an affordable upgrade if you know what will work great for their home's needs! Watch and learn these helpful tips now.

While there are many ways to generate revenue, one of the most reliable methods is to focus on recurring revenue streams. This type of income provides a steadier flow of cash, making it easier to manage expenses and plan for growth. For HVAC businesses, service agreements are an ideal source of recurring revenue. By charging customers a monthly or annual fee for maintenance and repairs, HVAC companies can keep their cash flow steady and predictable.

In this episode of REP Talk, we explore how to recession-proof your HVAC business by diversifying it and saving money. The key to weathering any economic downturn is to have a diversified portfolio of products and services so that you're not too reliant on any one sector. When it comes to saving money, we recommend looking for clear cut easy saving methods. For example, you might consider outsourcing non-essential services, or streamlining your operations to run more efficiently. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your HVAC business remains strong even during tough economic times.

In any business, it's important to be prepared for lean times. This is especially true in the HVAC industry, where seasonal fluctuations can have a big impact on revenue. However, there are a number of strategies that HVAC businesses can use to weather a down market. For example, many companies choose to offer discounts and specials during slow periods. Others focus on providing exceptional customer service, which can help to build loyalty and reputation. You can also choose not to participate in a recession. By being proactive and using the right strategies, HVAC businesses can weather even the toughest down markets.

HVAC maintenance calls provide a great opportunity for technicians to showcase their skills and knowledge. By taking the time to thoroughly inspect the system, clean all of the components, and make any necessary repairs, technicians can ensure that the system is running smoothly and efficiently. In addition, by providing the customer with a detailed report of their findings, technicians can demonstrate their dedication to customer satisfaction. By following these guidelines, technicians can turn an HVAC maintenance call into a chance to wow the customer and build lasting relationships.

Chris Craft, an HVAC manufacturer sales rep, tells us that the secret to success is all about providing value and engaging the field. He says that it's important to be knowledgeable about the products you're selling and to be able to answer any questions that may come up. It's also important to build relationships with customers and always be available to help them out. By providing value and engaging the field, Chris Craft says that you'll be successful as an HVAC manufacturer sales rep. Watch and learn more now!

HVAC careers offer a lot of opportunities for growth. Just ask Chris Craft. He's been in the business for over 10 years and he's crushing it. HVAC is a career that offers a lot of opportunities for those who are willing to put in the work. There's always room to grow, whether you're moving up within your current company or starting your own business. HVAC careers offer a lot of stability and security, which is something that he appreciates. If you're thinking about a career in HVAC, get involved. Learn more about his incredible journey.

In this episode of REP Talk, David Holt shares the story of how an HVAC technician saved an entire family from carbon monoxide poisoning. The technician was called to the home to measure for a mini-split system but was able to save a family from carbon monoxide poisoning. This story highlights the importance of HVAC technicians being familiar with the dangers of carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. It also underscores the importance of proper installation and maintenance of HVAC systems.

In this episode of REP Talk, David Holt talks about the importance of taking care of your customers. He points out that most HVAC problems can be solved by simply measuring system performance, rather than guessing. This allows you to identify and correct issues quickly and efficiently. Holt also stresses the importance of customer service, both in terms of providing quality products and services and in keeping customers happy. He notes that happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others. By taking care of your customers, you can ensure that your business will thrive for years to come.

In this episode, we talk to John Ellis about how he uses his knowledge of building performance, system performance, and IAQ to help immunocompromised people. He shares stories of how he worked with many patients, from children who need an iron lung to a retired couple who are compromised by air pollutants. Listen in as Ellis talks about why IAQ is all about getting back the basic foundation of HVAC. It's all about listening to the customer and matching it to the technical data you measure in the home, to come up with a scope of work to help them breathe cleaner, fresher air. Learn this and so much more in the episode now.

The HVAC industry is one of the most vital sectors of our modern economy, helping to regulate the temperature and air quality in our homes, offices, and other buildings. However, there is also a dark side to this industry as many companies resort to low bidding in order to get ahold of new clients. This practice often leads to shoddy work and substandard products, doing a great disservice not just to customers but also to companies that play by the rules. In this episode with David Holt, we talk about why this problem persists despite evidence that it's bad for business, and what can be done to shift the industry away from low bidding practices. Whether you own an HVAC company or simply care about issues of fairness in this sector, this episode is definitely worth a listen. So turn up the volume and join in the discussion!

In this episode, we talk to John Ellis about how he uses his knowledge of building performance, system performance, and IAQ to help immunocompromised people. He shares stories of how he worked with many patients, from children who need an iron lung to a retired couple who are compromised by air pollutants. Listen in as Ellis talks about why IAQ is all about getting back the basic foundation of HVAC. It's all about listening to the customer and matching it to the technical data you measure in the home, to come up with a scope of work to help them breathe cleaner, fresher air. Learn this and so much more in the episode now.

We sat down with David Holt to learn more about how he went from taking over his dad's HVAC business to becoming a successful National Comfort Industry professional. Turns out, it's all about joining the right organizations, training, and reading the right books to stand out from the crowd.

If you're interested in knowing what books Holt recommends reading before you decide to open your own HVAC business, here's the list:

In this episode, we sit down with John Ellis to talk about learning what you can't in HVAC trade schools. We discuss the value of HVAC performance training and how it helps create cleaner, healthier buildings. Contractors and technicians that learn HVAC system performance, building science, and mechanical principles, will provide better suggestions and scopes of work, because they are backed by data. Learn how to be the HVAC and IAQ specialist your customers can count on to get it right the first time! Watch or listen now!

The typical ducted HVAC system only delivers 57% of the equipment's rated capacity. This can be fixed with the right training. Unfortunately, this isn't really covered in trade schools. But it is covered in the National Comfort Institute HVAC system performance training. 

We sit down with David Holt from NCI to talk about the importance of system performance training, and how it helps you advance from a technician to a craftsman. 

The National Comfort Institute (NCI) is the leading provider of HVAC system performance training. NCI's courses are designed to help you improve your knowledge and skills and to provide you with the latest tools and techniques for troubleshooting and repairing HVAC systems. NCI's training is comprehensive and covers all aspects of HVAC system performance, from basic principles to advanced troubleshooting. In addition, NCI offers online courses that allow you to learn at your own pace and in your own time. With NCI's training, you will be able to improve your skills and knowledge, as well as troubleshoot and repair HVAC systems more effectively. 

Good indoor air quality is essential for a variety of reasons. Poor air quality can lead to health problems, it can make it difficult to concentrate, and it can make a space feel stuffy and unpleasant. Fortunately, there are steps that contractors can take to improve the air quality of their customer's buildings. 

One key figure in this effort is John Ellis, who has identified six pillars of indoor air quality. These pillars include:

1. thermal comfort
2. filtration
3. humidity control
4. ventilation
5. building pressures
6. pollutant identification and source control

By focusing on these areas, businesses can create a healthier and more comfortable environment for their employees. In turn, this can lead to increased productivity and improved overall morale.

IAQ for him has two meanings: Indoor Air Quality and Investigate, Analyze, and Quote. 

When it comes to indoor air quality, there is a lot to consider. First, you need to understand what the customer is feeling. Are they experiencing headaches, dizziness, or fatigue? Next, you need to analyze the data you've collected. What do the readings say about the level of contaminants in the home? Finally, you need to connect all of this information to create a comprehensive quote. This process can take time, but it's essential to ensure that you are providing the best possible service to your customers. 

A success story worth sharing! Learn how a manufacturer's rep and head of sales worked together to grow interest, demand, and sales for their IAQ monitors and control devices. Mini symposiums at a local hotel with handpicked contractors was all they needed to build something special. 

When we learned about how an HVAC manufacturer rep teamed up with the head of sales to generate interest, demand, and sales, we had to have them on. In this episode, we sit down with Alex van Bellegooie, Head of Sales at Haven IAQ, and Mike Carmosino with KASCO Sales Agency (Manufacturers Representative). We explore their Haven IAQ monitoring success story. Specifically, we learn how they got started, dive into exactly what they did to accomplish this, and so much more.

Our training director sat down with Ben Reed, the VP of Product at Haven IAQ to talk about the HVAC business benefits of whole-home IAQ monitors. The truth is, an IAQ monitor can turn your customer into a client. Learn exactly what we’re talking about now.

To stay competitive in the HVAC industry, you need to differentiate yourself from local competitors. Similarly, your business needs a unique value proposition. Offering services and products competitors don’t is one way to do it. With this in mind, that’s what we’re talking about today. Learn how whole home IAQ monitors can help you create even more IAQ awareness with your homeowner customers.

KGG Consulting’s Training Director and REPTalk Host Rob Ambrosetti sat down with key figures at HARDI to discuss the current status of the HVACR industry and what the future holds for the trade. This episode’s featured guests are: HARDI CEO Talbot Gee and HARDI’s Director of Government Affairs Alex Ayers.  

HARDI–Heating, Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Distribution International–is a key industry organization focused on wholesale distribution. With self-reported data and information from members, HARDI has a unique pulse for the business and ability to assess distributors that provides a useful larger snapshot of industry happenings and trends as a whole. HARDI offers members resources, support, monthly reports and newsletters, content and advocacy efforts. Membership spans several continents, with a focus in North America, and includes manufacturers, manufacturer representative groups and distributors.   

Ambrosetti, Gee and Ayers delve into the industry’s current state of affairs and pressing concerns including federal funding for school building HVAC system and IAQ upgrades, the possibility of widespread fresh air regulations and how the pandemic redefined wholesale distribution and the salesperson’s role in the field. The past year may have redefined the business world, but the HVACR industry has continued to triumph despite ongoing shifts, changes and difficulties. 

Discussions in this REPtalk episode are incredibly relevant for every aspect of the trade and business today. 

Business is all about relationships and value. For HVAC businesses it should make sense that furthering relationships and increasing customer lifetime value are crucial aspects of a successful company. This episode of RepTalk features KGG’s own Training Director Rob Ambrosetti in conversation with Hook Agency’s Founder and CEO Tim Brown discussing pre-calls, enhancements, and follow-ups. Together they offer insightful tips, tricks, and anecdotes on how to build relationships and increase customer value the right way.

It all starts with the first phone call. That first phone call or point of contact a customer makes is when their experience with your company begins. To build the relationship early, it’s essential that every employee is on the same page. And when with customers, in their homes or space, make sure to be the best expert possible and offer thoughtful recommendations while taking the time to educate the homeowner about the specific issues they present. This is the first step to increasing customer lifetime value.

Learn the many other tips for customer value and relationships, such as: the car wash model, adjusting the expected sales tone, training, clear communication, maintenance agreements and following up authentically.

Why is clean air so important? Research shows that air quality has a significant impact on our health, our homes and our environment. The possible effects of poor indoor air quality are varied, and can range from damaged furniture and home structures to an increased risk for serious health diseases and concerns. The connection between health and indoor air quality has perhaps never been more important than today due to the ongoing pandemic. This episode provides an overview of indoor air quality solutions.  

There are three main categories of pollutants that worsen indoor air quality. They are: germs, odors and particulates. Bacteria, pet odors, VOCs, dander … all of the invisible harmful pollutants worsening air quality without our knowledge originate from one of these categories.   How can we ensure better and healthier air? The answer is clean air strategies–which are simply the methods used to improve indoor air quality. Considering the air we breathe indoors can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, these strategies are essential. Almost all IAQ products and solutions can be summed up by five categories. They are:  

1. Source Control
2. Ventilation / Fresh Air
3. Air Filtration
4. Air Purification
5. Humidity Control   

Whether you are a seasoned pro and HVAC professional, new to the industry, or simply a concerned party curious about indoor air quality–we can all benefit from learning about IAQ solutions. In this episode of RepTalk, Host Rob Ambrosetti explains the need for clean air strategies, the benefit of whole-home solutions and an overview of each of the five IAQ solution categories.  

Industry experts discuss all aspects of indoor air quality.  It’s a multi-pronged approach for homeowners and HVAC contractors to protect their most important assets - their people.  It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, as every home and building has unique systems, the number of people occupying the space, and challenges with equipment, layout, and size.

Whether it’s inviting family and friends over to your home, or welcoming back employees and customers back into your business, clean air precautions are top of mind right now.

First, we cover the importance of fresh air, MERV 13 air filters, germicidal UV lights, and humidity control as it relates to pathogens.

Second, our experts touch on the importance and benefits of installing a whole-home active air purification solution to clean air and surfaces, and the downsides of a single room air purifier.

Lastly, we touch on just how much the HVAC industry is changing. With the onset of the pandemic and awareness of the airborne transmission of bacteria and viruses, coupled with a dire need to safely reopen, HVAC is on the frontlines of solving this problem.

What’s interesting is, these solutions have existed for years. It took a pandemic to make businesses and homeowners interested in this preventative solution.

If you’re an HVAC contractor right now, and you’re not offering indoor air quality solutions to your clients, you’re missing the boat.

Fortunately, there are many resources you can find online for help.

ASHRAE.com has many downloadable documents on COVID-19 that have interesting data points you can discuss with your clients as you inspect their HVAC system.

Ruth King from Contractor Cents
Discover ideas, tactics, news, and information that matters to your HVAC contracting business and you.

Indoor air quality is a subject that is on the minds of contractors, consumers, and commercial building owners. There's so much information out there. Who can you trust? What can you offer to your customers that you know is reputable and will do the job?

Start with ASHRAE and the EPA as trusted resources for your own research. There's a lot of gray areas and what I would say to anybody, as you're researching strategies, and devices to help you implement those strategies, third party testing is a big deal. So just make sure whatever you're looking at for a device, whether it be an air purifier, air cleaner, whatever. Look to make sure there's it's third-party tested first and foremost, that's just a fair statement.

Indoor air quality solutions are in high demand and that brings the need for much more support. Matt Reiners talks about what that looks like in 2020.  It's so important to build strong long-term relationships and we're always here to help.  

How HVAC Contractors Can Build and Keep Wealth with Ruth King

Best selling author, consultant, and entrepreneur Ruth King joins us today to discuss how hvac contractors can build and keep wealth. We cover some generally good ideas but also what to do in today's market.

Ruth is a serial entrepreneur having owned 8 businesses in the past 37+ years. One of her businesses, Business Ventures Corporation, began operations in 1981. Through Business Ventures, she coaches, trains, and helps contractors and others achieve the business growth and goals they want to achieve.