For example, when installing whole-house generators, the Kennihan team ensures the equipment is set up correctly with poured concrete pads, electrical inspections, and proper gas line sizing.
“Too often, people install generators without considering whether their gas supply can handle the demand,” Bill Kennihan explains. “Then, when the power goes out, they find out their generator doesn’t work. We prevent those problems before they happen.”
This meticulous approach extends to HVAC installations as well. Kennihan technicians perform comprehensive airflow measurements, static pressure testing, and combustion analysis to ensure every system is properly sized and balanced.
“We don’t just install a new furnace and walk away,” says Jose. “We fine-tune the system to ensure it improves comfort in the home.”
Embracing System Performance Testing
Kennihan HVAC has fully embraced system performance testing, a philosophy that National Comfort Institute (NCI) champions. They ensure customers get the best possible comfort and energy savings by measuring real-world system performance instead of relying on theoretical efficiency ratings.
“Most HVAC companies just look at the nameplate efficiency of a furnace or air conditioner and assume that’s what the customer is getting,” Bill explains. “But without proper ductwork, airflow, and installation practices, even the most efficient system can perform poorly.”
To combat this, Kennihan technicians take a data-driven approach, using tools like:
- Static pressure testing to diagnose airflow restrictions
- Carbon monoxide analyzers to ensure safe combustion
- Airflow balancing to correct comfort issues in different rooms
- Air quality monitors to assess pollutants and ventilation needs.
“Customers notice the difference,” says Jose. “When we go into a home and fix their airflow issues, they can feel it immediately. Their bedrooms are more comfortable, their energy bills go down, and their systems last longer.”
Expanding Indoor Air Quality Services
Indoor air quality (IAQ) has become a growing focus for Kennihan, especially in newer homes built with tighter construction standards.
“Homes today don’t ‘breathe’ the way older homes did,” Bill explains. “That’s great for energy efficiency but can lead to poor indoor air quality.”
To address this, Kennihan has expanded its IAQ services to include:
- ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) to introduce fresh air while maintaining efficiency
- Radon mitigation systems to reduce harmful gas levels in homes
- Duct cleaning and filtration upgrades to remove airborne contaminants.
“We recently did a job where the CO2 levels in the house were way too high,” he recalls. “We installed two ERVs, and the improvement was immediate. The homeowners were shocked by how much better they felt.”
The Role of Training and Certification
A key element of the company’s success is its investment in ongoing technical training.
“Training is part of our DNA. When new technicians come on board, they quickly learn that we do things differently here,” says Jose.
Kennihan technicians receive extensive HVAC system performance, combustion analysis, and IAQ diagnostics training. The company also ensures its team stays up to date with NCI certifications.
Bill Kennihan says all his technicians except the newest hires are certified by NCI. “And we’re making sure they (the new techs) get up to speed as well,” he adds.
He explains that he began his relationship with NCI many years ago and that the organization’s impact on his business has been tremendous. He readily admits he doesn’t know what he would have done without NCI.
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