A 0.5 Percent Oxygen Change Reveals Cracked Heat Exchangers in HVAC with Jason Esteves Part 2

In part 2 of this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Jason Esteves, General Manager Americas at Seitron Americas Inc. They explore advanced concepts in combustion analysis, focusing on detecting cracked heat exchangers using oxygen changes and carbon monoxide levels. Jason explains why even a half percent shift in oxygen can signal serious issues and breaks down how combustion behaves in low-fire conditions. The discussion includes real-world examples, challenges with equipment startups, and tips for using analyzers like the NOVO. They also cover practical steps to update the analyzer's firmware for added features.

Gary and Jason dive into the real process of spotting cracked heat exchangers using oxygen levels and CO readings. Jason explains how even a small shift in oxygen can mean a big issue and why looking at both O2 and CO is key. They talk through examples from real service calls and explain how low gas flow affects combustion readings. Jason shares why accurate data matters and how techs can avoid mistakes with proper analyzer checks. They end by showing how to update the NOVO tool so techs can use the newest test features in the field.

 

Expect to Learn:

1. How to detect a cracked heat exchanger using small changes in oxygen levels.

2. Why carbon monoxide readings alone are not enough to confirm a crack.

3. What happens during low-fire conditions and how it affects combustion data.

4. How to check your analyzer for leaks or setup issues before trusting the numbers.

5. How to update the NOVO analyzer with new features right from your computer.

 

Episode Highlights: 
[00:00] - Intro to Jason Esteves in Part 02
[02:25] - Finding & Testing Heat Exchanger Corrosion
[04:34] - Oxygen Change: The Key Indicator of a Crack
[07:12] - Story: Startup Issues with Makeup Air Units
[09:30] - Combustion Analysis with Low Gas Input
[11:25] - Importance of Proper Startup and Commissioning
[15:47] - Update the NOVO Analyzer for Cracked Heat Exchanger Mode

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:
Master: https://www.master.ca/
Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/
Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/
property.com: https://mccreadie.property.com
SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm
Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!

Follow the Guest Jason Esteves on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-esteves-9690255/ 
Seitron Americas Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seitron-americas-inc/ 

Website:
Seitron Americas Inc: http://www.seitronamericas.com/ 

Follow the Host:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 
Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/