Lecture Descriptions
Mastering Heat Loss & Heat Gain Calculations | March 20
Selecting the right heat pump begins with accurate heat loss and heat gain calculations, which are essential for energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term system performance. This hands-on, in-person training equips professionals with practical skills to properly size equipment for a range of building conditions. By actively entering data and performing calculations using the HVAC ST tool based on Manual J principles, participants will explore best practices, common pitfalls, and real-world scenarios to make confident and data-driven decisions.
What you will learn:
- Understand the significance of accurate heat loss and heat gain calculations in HVAC system selection and performance.
- Review Manual J calculations and the impacts of different building characteristics on the heating and cooling loads.
- Analyze key variables — including R-values, ACH rates, duct multipliers, and solar heat gain — to determine their impact on load calculations.
- Assess cooling load considerations, such as window orientation and solar gain factors, to optimize HVAC system sizing.
- Apply climate-specific strategies to adjust load calculations and improve energy efficiency in diverse building conditions.
Heat Pump System Sizing and Selection | April 3
It requires a nuanced understanding of how to apply those calculations in selecting the right equipment — especially in the context of variable speed heat pumps.
This interactive, in-person training is designed to give HVAC professionals and energy efficiency practitioners a practical grounding in heat pump system selection. Building on principles from prior HVAC sizing training (e.g., Heating & Cooling Load Calculations), this course focuses specifically on applying load calculations to match equipment selection and performance criteria for heat pumps.
What you will learn:
- Core principles and methodology behind proper equipment selection.
- How to apply heating & cooling load calculations outputs to equipment selection for heat pumps.
- Best practices for accounting for oversizing risks, latent and sensible loads, and part-load operation.
- Strategies to avoid mismatch between heat pump specifications and load calculations.
- Equipment selection considerations for central ducted and ductless heat pump systems.
- Equipment selection considerations for single-stage, multi-stage, and variable capacity systems.
Ductless Heat Pump Design & Installation Best Practices | April 17
This course will give you the tools to size, site, and install ductless heat pump systems for maximum efficiency, comfort, and longevity. Ductless heat pumps (DHPs) have proven to be an effective solution for homes with zonal electric heat — but only when designed and installed properly. This
in-person training will help HVAC professionals, contractors, and energy efficiency teams avoid costly installation mistakes while ensuring comfort and long-term performance.
We’ll cover best practices for unit siting, site preparation, and protecting refrigerant lines, as well as effective indoor unit placement that minimizes maintenance needs. You’ll also leave with practical tips for educating homeowners, and PCEF’s installation checklist.
What you will learn:
- Select the right unit size for the home’s layout and heating/cooling load.
- Site and install outdoor units properly to avoid noise complaints, drip line issues, and lineset challenges.
- Prepare the install site to minimize refrigerant line lengths, support system longevity, and meet permitting codes.
- Place indoor units strategically for comfort, minimal maintenance, and real-world usability.
- Educate homeowners on usage and servicing to maximize the life of the system.
Installing Heat Pump Water Heaters: Proven Practices for Reliable Results | May 1
Stay up to date as heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) become increasingly common in residential homes. While HPWHs present great opportunities for energy savings, installing them to minimize complaints, and maximize savings for the customer is a must. This interactive session explores both the technical details and practical realities of HPWH installations—helping you avoid costly mistakes and deliver reliable hot water for your customers.
Ample time will be included to answer questions and discuss specific installation challenges. Attendees will also participate in a "Tank Tinder" activity to match HPWH solutions to real-world scenarios!
What you will learn:
- Identify which home types and installation locations are best suited for heat pump water heaters (HPWHs).
- Differentiate between product categories and select the appropriate model for various applications.
- Apply installation practices that enhance comfort, efficiency, and system resiliency.
- Evaluate electric panels and analyze load requirements to ensure compatibility.
- Develop strategies to avoid or minimize costly electrical panel upgrades.
