Episode 17: All About HVAC Systems

In this Build Show Podcast episode, Matt Risinger and Tim Hill, with a combined building experience of over 65 years, dive into the world of HVAC. Recorded at the Rockwool Studios in Austin, Texas, this episode is sponsored by Builder First Source.
Matt and Tim discuss HVAC systems, focusing on the good, better, best approach for personal and client houses. They explore the evolution of HVAC technology and share insights on how to decide which system to use based on the project's needs. They also discuss the importance of reliable systems that deliver both comfort and efficiency.
Tim shares his experience with HVAC systems, including his own house built in 1985. He explains how he has evolved his system over the years, moving from a simple on/off system to a more sophisticated variable speed unit that controls humidity effectively. Tim also discusses his unique approach to condensate management, which involves collecting the condensate water for other uses.
Matt and Tim also touch on the importance of fresh air ventilation and dehumidification in modern homes. They discuss different approaches to fresh air intake, ranging from basic systems to more complex energy recovery ventilators (ERVs).
Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into HVAC systems, highlighting the importance of choosing the right system for optimal comfort and efficiency. Whether you're a homeowner or a builder, this episode offers practical advice on HVAC system selection and maintenance. Tune in to the Build Show Podcast to learn more about HVAC systems and building science from two industry experts.
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Huge thanks to our Show sponsors Builders FirstSource, Polyguard, Huber, Rockwool & Viewrail for helping to make these videos possible! These are all trusted companies that Matt has worked with for years and trusts their products in the homes he builds. We would highly encourage you to check out their websites for more info.
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www.Rockwool.com

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

One thing to remember about dehumidifier ratings is that the "30 pints" is the peak performance in VERY humid conditions. In a normal environment, like a house with air conditioning, then a portable dehumidifier will probably only produce a small amount of condensation. Even with 60%+ RH it might not produce much condensate. You need to move a lot of humid air, like with a whole-house system, to collect a lot of moisture from the indoor environment.

[@brandonv8721]

being in a high desert, a dehumidifier feel really weird. My steam humidifier is running all the time turning 20 dollar bills into humidity

[@John-uo1qf]

More about dehumidifier than HVAC. Not an issue in the desert

[@raymondpeters9186]

Pumicecrete is by far the best building material on the planet Pumicecrete is a mixture of pumice cement and water mixed and poured into a set of reusable forms walls are poured from 12"to 24" thick pumicecrete is fireproof termite proof rust rot and mold proof and has a high R value and good sound attenuation solid poured walls means no critters can live in your walls Pumicecrete can be built for a fraction of the cost and time and pumice is one of the few building materials that can go directly from the mine to the job site ready to use without any additional possessing and zero waste Take care Ray

[@markturner5207]

Why do you need a dehumidifier when the AC does the same thing?

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

What happens if your AC is set to 72, but the temp is only 68 with lots of humidity?

[@markturner5207]

@@DeuceDeuceBravo I’m in the gulf coast area, I have a Lennox multi speed ac unit. The humidity is set to 30% my home is very cool and dry no dehumidifier needed.

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

@@markturner5207 That works for you, but what if someone doesn't want their house to be "very cool"?