Cracked Heat Exchanger Testing: Why an Analyzer Alone Is Not Enough with Tyler Nelson - Part 2

In this episode of HVAC Know It All, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR, HVAC Sales Manager & Trainer - Americas at Seitron Americas Inc., about heat exchanger inspections, combustion diagnostics, and personal carbon monoxide monitoring. They explain how visual checks complement analyzer readings, why building changes can disrupt draft, and how technicians can approach CO protection throughout the year.

Tyler conducts training for contractors, distributors, and conference audiences. His work includes helping contractors improve installation, commissioning, and diagnostic practices. He brings that field-training perspective to inspection access, interpreting combustion measurements, and using technology without abandoning hands-on diagnostic skills.

 

Key Takeaways

• How ambient CO monitoring, installation checks, visual inspection, and combustion analysis work together as layers of a diagnostic process.

• How borescopes, phone cameras, and planned access panels can help technicians inspect hard-to-reach heat exchangers.

• Why a blue flame alone cannot establish safe combustion performance.

• How building alterations and exhaust systems can change pressure conditions and interfere with appliance draft.

• Why personal CO monitoring remains relevant during summer service calls when other fuel-fired appliances are operating indoors.

 

Key Timestamps

00:00 - Factory Direct Filters Ad

00:42 - Guest and Episode Introduction

02:09 – Layering ambient CO checks, installation review, and visual inspection

07:43 – Planning inspection access during installation

12:21 – Personal CO monitoring and year-round exposure risks

13:55 – CO safety for customers, technicians, and staff

 

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ 

Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ 

SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm 

Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

 

Follow the Guest and His Company on:

Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/

Seitron Americas Inc. - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seitron-americas-/inc

Seitron Americas Inc. - Company Website: https://www.seitronamericas.com/ 

 

Follow the Host on:

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/