por HVAC Learning Campus
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Bryan Franz, Daikin Brand Dealer Development Manager at Daikin Comfort Technologies, reflects on his career journey and how it has shaped his perspective on leadership and dealer support. He defines dealer development as more than just business growth—it's about building strong relationships, fostering a results-driven culture, and partnering with dealers to create long-term value. Bryan highlights the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and helping dealers unlock their potential through a people-centered approach. Bryan also elaborates on Daikin’s unique philosophy of people-centered management, and how that mindset influences everything from marketing support to incentive programs. He discusses the benefits of having a strong professional network, reveals updates to Daikin’s marketing memberships, and previews major events like “Be the Pro” and exclusive incentive trips that reward top-performing dealers. For those aspiring to become a Daikin Comfort Pro, Bryan offers practical advice grounded in experience, vision, and a genuine dedication to dealer success.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton talks with Chris St. Jean, Co-Founder of Servicely, about how his company is empowering new HVAC contractors to quickly and effectively establish an online presence. Chris explains how Servicely’s platform allows contractors to build a customized website in just minutes, helping them get found locally, connect with customers, and enable essential tools like financing—all without relying on generic, cookie-cutter templates. The platform gives contractors ownership of their data, allows them to add features as they grow, and even qualifies for accrual funds, making it both accessible and scalable. Chris also notes how creative use of social media can drive business and why viewing marketing as an investment is critical for growth. He outlines what contractors and distributors can expect from Servicely in terms of pricing and design upgrades. Whether a contractor is just starting out or looking to take their website to the next level, Chris stresses the importance of simply taking that first step—and how Servicely is built to make that journey easier and more successful.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Shiblee Noman, Senior Product Manager for Furnaces at Daikin Comfort Technologies, begins by explaining how Daikin is helping homeowners qualify for the 25C tax credit by upgrading their two-stage variable models to 97% efficiency, with even more high-efficiency models on the way. He shares how Daikin’s offerings stack up against competitors and explains the additional tax benefits available when combining a 97% furnace with a qualifying heat pump, creating a powerful dual-fuel system. Shiblee also dives into the myriad advantages of dual-fuel setups, including a life expectancy of around 30 years, and emphasizes why contractors who want to thrive should focus on this growing market. Wrapping up the conversation, he offers his vision for where the furnace industry is heading over the next 20 to 30 years and highlights the role of dual-fuel technology in shaping the future of home comfort and energy efficiency.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton sits down with Manish Shelare, Ductless Product Manager at Daikin Comfort Technologies. Manish introduces the audience to the innovative Daikin OTERRA 115-volt system—a game-changer for older homes and retrofit applications. He describes how this compact, high-efficiency system delivers performance equal to traditional 220-volt systems, while offering easier installation and fewer electrical requirements. With the outdoor unit powering the indoor unit, there’s no need for extra wiring, making it ideal for homes with crowded circuit panels. Manish elaborates on the system’s flexible control options, including an optional compact Wi-Fi device, and points out how contractors can complete installations in under 30 minutes thanks to a flareless adaptor—eliminating the need for flaring altogether. He also discusses Daikin’s rigorous testing on fittings, the convenience of a detachable drain pan for easier maintenance, and the peace of mind provided by a 12-year warranty that even covers the flareless adaptor. The episode wraps with a sneak peek at upcoming Daikin innovations and a strong message about the thoughtful engineering and real-world benefits behind this new 115-volt product.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Kelly Hearnsberger, Vice President of Advanced Product Marketing & Innovation at Daikin Comfort Technologies, offers an exciting look into Daikin’s forward-thinking initiatives. He dives into their mission to transform the HVAC marketplace with advanced heat pump and inverter technology, and how Daikin is working to communicate that value to contractors and consumers alike. Kelly breaks down the cold-climate heat pump challenge and how Daikin met it head-on with innovations like their Altherma product line, which pushes water heating beyond fossil fuels, and cutting-edge air handler designs. Kelly also emphasizes Daikin’s push to offer more services—such as Daikin Cloud Services—that enhance customer experience and contractor success. He introduces the concept of “super-electrifiers,” contractors leading the charge in electrification, and explains how they’re navigating the current political climate to drive change. For those looking to get started, Kelly stresses that becoming a super-electrifier begins with education and a hunger to grow your business. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to embrace the future of HVAC.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we sit down with Scott Mangum, National Sales Trainer for the Central and Texas Divisions, to talk about how evolving HVAC technology—especially the Daikin FIT system and ductless solutions—is reshaping the industry. Scott unpacks how homeowners are adapting to these advancements and outlines the perks of Side Discharge and Ductless units beyond just efficiency, including easier installation and improved flexibility. He also explores how these products positively impact technicians and Comfort Advisors, making sales conversations more effective and positioning businesses for long-term success. Scott also emphasizes the value of structured training through Daikin’s Side Discharge and Ductless Mastery Programs, available on the HVAC Learning Campus (link below). He explains how these programs provide a holistic approach, ensuring that owners, salespeople, and technicians understand how to promote and sell new products effectively. By establishing these best practices as part of a company’s culture, it becomes easier to integrate new hires and maintain consistency. He also encourages contractors to leverage the HVAC Learning Campus to expand their knowledge, build valuable relationships, and take advantage of training sessions tailored to their specific goals.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we’re joined by Peyton Collier, Regional Sales Manager at JB Industries, to discuss critical updates for contractors as the industry transitions to low-GWP refrigerants. Peyton breaks down the key changes, including the requirement that any motorized component touching the refrigeration cycle must be A2L compliant, and how JB Industries has adapted its tools to meet these new standards. He also shares insights on the differences in unit ports, best practices for recovering A2Ls safely, and JB’s commitment to leak detection and locking caps to ensure system integrity. The conversation also lays out JB Industries’ dedication to innovation, from developing cutting-edge tools for evolving technology to sourcing and manufacturing materials in the USA for superior quality and reliability. Peyton explains JB’s Counter Days and Pump Days, special events designed to help contractors with their products, as well as upcoming promotions that customers won’t want to miss. Whether it’s navigating new refrigerant regulations or investing in top-tier tools, this episode is packed with valuable advice for HVAC professionals looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton engages with Mike Robinson, owner of Smith Plumbing & Heating in Colorado Springs, who shares his strategies for managing rising business costs while maintaining customer trust. Mike breaks down how he markets his pricing strategies in a competitive landscape and ensures his technicians stay consistently productive. He also reinforces the significance of the importance of knowing your numbers, overhead, and market focus to build a resilient and profitable business. Mike explores the role of dynamic pricing in HVAC, explaining how he reconciles its use and where he sees opportunities for growth. He highlights how leveraging equipment monitoring can improve efficiency and customer service. Additionally, Mike stresses the importance of due diligence when working with accountants, lawyers, and other professionals, making sure you invest wisely and understand the businesses you collaborate with. This episode offers practical insights for contractors looking to navigate pricing, cost management, and strategic decision-making in an evolving industry.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we welcome Jim Steffey, Daikin Comfort National Sales Trainer for the South Division, to discuss his passion for training and the strategies he has developed throughout his career. Jim addresses the common barriers that prevent contractors from investing in training and the complexities of balancing business acumen with customer service education. He highlights the need for HVAC professionals to focus on the "important but not urgent" category, emphasizing a proactive approach to skill development. From technical expertise to essential business and bookkeeping training, Jim explains why a well-rounded education is crucial for long-term success. Jim also dives into the importance of component skills beyond equipment, such as duct design and airflow, and how investing in employee development leads to higher retention and stronger teams. He offers practical advice for contractors looking to build a culture of continuous learning and stresses the multi-faceted nature of training. Whether you're aiming to level up your team or refine your own skill set, this episode delivers valuable insights on creating a training-driven business that thrives.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton sits down with Mike Smith, Manager of Commercialization and Channel Marketing at Daikin Comfort, to tackle one of the biggest homeowner dilemmas—repairing or replacing an HVAC system. Mike offers expert insights on how contractors can guide homeowners through this decision, especially as rising repair costs and upcoming refrigerant changes make replacement a smarter long-term investment. He talks about the advantages of transitioning to R32 refrigerant, which offers better efficiency and lower environmental impact, and explains how newer systems can improve indoor air quality. Mike also introduces Daikin’s new Homeowner HVAC Guide, a tool designed to help contractors confidently navigate the repair-versus-replace conversation. The discussion covers the key questions contractors should ask when evaluating a homeowner’s needs, as well as alternative solutions if a full system replacement isn’t feasible. Mike emphasizes the role of financing and rebates in making new systems more affordable, ensuring homeowners can upgrade without financial strain. Whether it’s educating customers on the long-term benefits of a replacement or finding ways to enhance their current system, this episode provides actionable strategies to help contractors build trust and close more sales.