Best Practices for Installation of Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps (ccASHP)
Course Summary: A major goal of this training will be to help contractor participants have a better understanding of the important role that installation of ccASHP is now being expected to play in helping NYS and NYC to achieve their Green House Gas Emission reduction goals and how and why this technology is now being promoted by NYSERDA and the utilities.
The training will include description of the advantages of inverter compressor technology in allowing improved operational efficiency of a heat pump; explanation of how heat pumps work to provide both heating and air conditioning; and how and why properly sizing a ccASHP is so critical for client satisfaction.
The training will describe limitations and challenges of inadequate electrical service at the site and explore options to upgrade existing service/panel to accommodate increased electrical load. It will help contractors understand limitations and requirements for installation of both the indoor and outdoor units. For indoor units, the course discusses the location for proper drainage, for proper air circulation, and minimum and maximum distance from the outdoor unit. For outdoor units, it presents issues such as the location for proper clearances for maintenance, proper air circulation, and snow.
Key Learning Objective(s): By the end of this training, attendees will be able to:
• Identify line set size requirements, options for connections – braze vs flare, which is preferred where?
• Understand the need to explore available options for either floor mount or wall mount, and address vibration issues
• Know the importance of running line sets and electrical wiring in conduit rather than exposing them to elements and why exposing them to elements is not a good option
• Understand proper evacuation and charging techniques
• Know the requirements and guidelines for start-up commissioning
• Prevent refrigerant leaks: License requirements and potential hazards
• Provide client education on proper settings, use and maintenance of unit
Conducting Heat Loss Calculations
Course length: 2 hour module (delivered remotely)
Course Summary: Understanding the principle of heat loss calculation is essential, before an HVAC contractor can properly adopt Manual J modeling software. This course is manufacturer or third-party Manual J modeling tool agnostic. We will work through one problem set using the case provided by the instructor.
Key Learning Objectives(s): By the end of this training, attendees will be able to: • Understand data collection requirements, • Use the basic algebra and geometry that are the basis of the calculations.
Trainer Biographies:
Asit Patel is an adjunct trainer for the Association for Energy Affordability, Inc., delivering technical education in energy efficient building operations and management to over 3,500 contractors, energy professionals, and building management and operations staff. He is President of ANP Energy Consulting Services Corp. He has over 24 years of experience in energy auditing, training, design engineering, and operational aspects of energy use and improvement in multi-family and commercial building sector of our industry. Asit is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA), and Existing Building Commissioning Professional (EBCP). He is past President of Association of Energy Engineers (2016) and recipient of International Energy Professional Development award (2013).
Ramon Casado is an energy auditor, production coordinator and trainer. Ramon began his career in weatherization and energy efficiency in 2001. He currently serves AEA as senior auditor for small homes and the Weatherization Program. During his 19 years of industry experience, Ramon conducted over 100 audits under Assisted Home Performance with Energy Star, National Grid, and the Weatherization Assistance Program. He specializes in energy modeling soft wares such as TIPS and TREAT, testing techniques for air sealing, and drafting specifications for heating system replacements. Ramon provides training for multiple BPI certification courses as well as for new small home auditors in the NYS Downstate Weatherization Agencies.
