Previously accepted industry standards like refrigerant charging to “beer can cold” and sizing HVAC equipment using rule-of-thumb methods will no longer cut it. These old-time approaches will only get you so far.

It is true that quite a few of us are stuck in our old ways. We need to learn to adapt and change. There will be contractors who thrive, while others will be left behind.

We might not be able to individually control the future of residential HVAC, but each of us can make an effort to master our craft and take pride in what we do. Our trade needs to collectively prepare and embrace the education necessary to do so.

Adam Mufich serves the HVAC industry as a curriculum developer and instructor for National Comfort Institute, Inc. (NCI). NCI specializes in training that focuses on improving, measuring, and verifying HVAC and building performance. If you’re an HVAC contractor or technician interested in learning more about air sealing benefits, contact Adam at ncilink.com/ContactMe. NCI’s website, www.nationalcomfortinstitute.com, is full of free information to help you improve your professionalism and strengthen your company.