Efficiency First California

AC/HP Refrigeration Module 2026
2026-05-18 18:00 - 2026-05-19 20:15 (America/Los_Angeles)
This eight-part seminar is designed for HVAC professionals, ranging from beginners to those with intermediate experience. The program begins with the foundational principles and theories of air conditioning and heat pump systems. From there, it systematically covers the processes involved in Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) specifically for residential and light commercial systems in the California market.
Held in the evenings, this series equips participants with the comprehensive skills needed to expertly install, commission, maintain, service, diagnose, and verify air conditioning and heat pump systems. Attendees will learn to ensure these systems are safe, reliable, and operate at peak capacity and energy efficiency.
Part 1 provides an overview of air conditioning and heat pump systems, emphasizing the importance of understanding equipment and investing in education. It introduces the “Three Mass Fluid Flows” (indoor fan airflow, refrigerant flow, and outdoor fan airflow) crucial for system performance and discusses the significance of proper ducting, airflow, and refrigerant charging.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify all major components and describe the operations of AC & HP refrigeration systems.
• Explain the “Three Mass Fluid Flows” concept and its significance in optimizing HVAC system performance.
• Assess the impact of ducting, airflow, and refrigerant charging on system efficiency and reliability and implement best practices to ensure optimal performance.
Part 2 of this series covers thermodynamic principles and the refrigeration cycle, explaining heat absorption and rejection, and the importance of correct refrigerant charge. It details the roles of key components like the compressor, condensing coil, and metering device in the refrigeration cycle.
Learning Objectives:
• Explain the basic laws of thermodynamics and apply them to refrigeration systems.
• Describe the refrigeration cycle and articulate the processes of heat absorption and rejection.
• Identify and explain the functions of the compressor, condensing coil, and metering device within the refrigeration cycle.
Part 3 of this series covers the various types of metering devices used in residential and light commercial HVAC systems, such as fixed rate orifice devices like capillary tubes and piston flow raters, and adjustable orifice devices like thermal expansion valves. The discussion highlights the functionality, advantages, and disadvantages of each device. Additionally, it explains the role of evaporator coils in the HVAC system, detailing the processes involved in converting refrigerant from a liquid to a vapor state and then superheating it.
Learning Objectives:
• Differentiate between various metering devices used in HVAC systems and explain their operational principles.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of fixed rate and adjustable orifice metering devices.
• Describe the function of evaporator coils and detail the process of refrigerant conversion and superheating.
Part 4 examines the components like filter/driers, reversing valves, suction line accumulators, and refrigerant line sets. It explains the role of filters/driers in removing contaminants from the refrigerant, the function of reversing valves in heat pump systems, and the purpose of suction line accumulators in preventing liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor. The presentation also covers best practices for the installation and maintenance of these components to ensure system reliability and efficiency.
Learning Objectives:
• Distinguish the types and functions of filters/driers and explain their roles in HVAC systems.
• Review the operation of reversing valves and their critical role in heat pump systems.
• Implement best practices for installing and maintaining suction line accumulators and refrigerant line sets to ensure system efficiency and reliability.
Part 5 covers the essential steps for commissioning a newly installed HVAC system. It emphasizes the importance of thorough testing to ensure the system operates within the designed parameters and manufacturers’ specifications. The segment discusses the potential issues that could arise from design flaws, incorrect installation, or faulty equipment, and outlines a 10-step process for verifying proper operation.
Learning Objectives:
• Explain the importance of testing newly installed HVAC systems to verify performance and reliability.
• Identify common flaws and errors in HVAC systems and explain their impact on performance.
• Conduct the 10-step commissioning process to ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications and original design.
Part 6 explores into the necessity and benefits of implementing a Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) program for HVAC systems. It discusses how the natural degradation of system components impacts performance and reliability over time. The segment highlights the steps to create and execute a PPM program, emphasizing the proactive approach to maintenance to extend the system’s lifespan and efficiency.
Learning Objectives:
• Explain the factors contributing to HVAC system degradation and their impact on performance.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) program tailored to specific HVAC systems.
• Assess the effectiveness of PPM programs in reducing breakdowns, extending equipment lifespan, and enhancing system efficiency and reliability.
Part 7 covers the essentials of refrigeration system service, emphasizing preventative maintenance, identifying common refrigeration circuit problems, and adhering to the “Golden Rule” of diagnosis: Minimizing system breaches to prevent contamination and charge compromise of the refrigeration circuit.
Learning Objectives:
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance programs for refrigeration systems.
• Identify common symptoms of refrigeration circuit problems and execute appropriate initial diagnostic steps.
• Apply best practices to minimize system breaches and avoid contamination, ensuring the integrity of the refrigerant charge.
Part 8 focuses on advanced diagnosis and verification techniques for refrigerant charges and stresses the need to follow manufacturers’ guidelines. It explains both the superheat and subcooling methods, common diagnostic challenges and the proper use of manifold gauge sets to ensure optimal system performance.
Learning Objectives:
• Measure and verify refrigerant charge using superheat and sub cooling methods.
• Diagnose and correct common errors related to refrigerant charge and system performance.
• Adhere to manufacturers’ guidelines and industry standards to ensure optimal system performance and longevity.
Instructor: Michael D. Griffin, IHACI instructor
Mike owns and operates M&M General Repair and Airflow Specialties in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California. Mike is an IHACI Instructor, a member of the IHACI Education Committee, a H.E.R.S. Rater, a Certified Technical Educator, and one of only 21 non-union, non-res Certified Mechanical Acceptance Testing Employers/Technicians in California. M&M General Repair has been in business since 1982, specializing in home service of air conditioning, heating, and most major appliances, and is still active today, servicing the San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas. Airflow Specialties has been in business since 2004, specializing in Title 24 Verifying, Energy Efficiency, Delivered Efficiency measurements and retrofits covering most of Southern California, performing Duct Pressure Testing, Fan Flow Measurement, Refrigerant Charge Verification, Fan Efficacy, and Energy Efficiency. Mike is certified by both CalCERTS and CHEERS as a H.E.R.S. Rater, as well as NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certified in Service and Installation, Gas Furnace, and has Certifications in Light Commercial & Residential Air Balance, Commercial & Residential System Performance from NCI (National Comfort Institute).
Moderator: Andrew Smith, IHACI instructor
Andrew has over 21 years of experience in the HVAC industry. He began his career as a helper, working his way up to technician with a company specializing in residential and light commercial projects. Along the way, he earned NATE certifications in air conditioning and heat pump service before advancing the role of service manager. For the past 10 years, Andrew has shared his expertise as an instructor with IHACI. He currently works with Lennox NAS and has achieved his RSES CM certification.

Air Distribution Module 2026 - Part 1 & 2
2026-06-08 18:00 - 20:15
Eight parts over four evenings for beginner-intermediate HVAC professionals.
Build a strong foundation in ducted air distribution and learn how Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) apply to California residential and light commercial systems. Gain practical skills to design, install, commission, maintain, service, diagnose, and verify ducted airflow systems with a focus on safety, reliability, and energy-efficient performance.
CEUs: This series qualifies for 8 CEHs through North American Technician Excellence (NATE) with the completion of all 8 parts.
6/8/2026 6:00-8:15 PM Part 1: Why air distribution matters. Covers proper duct design; airflow rates, velocities, and static pressure; diffuser/grille selection; airflow measurement instruments; and common field misunderstandings about the fundamental characteristics of air. Part 2: Quantifies the fundamental characteristics of air using the psychrometric chart-explained from the perspective of installers and service technicians.

Air Distribution Module 2026 - Part 3 & 4
2026-06-09 18:00 - 20:15
Eight parts over four evenings for beginner-intermediate HVAC professionals. Build a strong foundation in ducted air distribution and learn how Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) apply to California residential and light commercial systems.
Gain practical skills to design, install, commission, maintain, service, diagnose, and verify ducted airflow systems with a focus on safety, reliability, and energy-efficient performance.
CEUs: This series qualifies for 8 CEHs through North American Technician Excellence (NATE) with the completion of all 8 parts.
6/9/2026 6:00-8:15 PM Part 3: Duct design methods, with a focus on the Equal Friction Method key rules and sizing/airflow examples. Part 4: Equal Friction in practice: loads, layout, friction-rate/loss adjustments, and hands-on examples leading into commercial build/commissioning.

Air Distribution Module 2026 - Part 5 & 6
2026-06-15 18:00 - 20:15
Eight parts over four evenings for beginner-intermediate HVAC professionals. Build a strong foundation in ducted air distribution and learn how Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) apply to California residential and light commercial systems.
Gain practical skills to design, install, commission, maintain, service, diagnose, and verify ducted airflow systems with a focus on safety, reliability, and energy-efficient performance.
CEUs: This series qualifies for 8 CEHs through North American Technician Excellence (NATE) with the completion of all 8 parts.
6/15/2026 6:00-8:15 PM Part 5: Build, commission, and maintain a commercial duct system-installation steps, testing/balancing, materials, and adjustments for efficient, reliable performance. Part 6: Filter selection and return-side upgrades for commercial duct systems to improve overall performance.

Air Distribution Module 2026 - Part 7 & 8
2026-06-16 18:00 - 20:15
Eight parts over four evenings for beginner-intermediate HVAC professionals. Build a strong foundation in ducted air distribution and learn how Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) apply to California residential and light commercial systems.
Gain practical skills to design, install, commission, maintain, service, diagnose, and verify ducted airflow systems with a focus on safety, reliability, and energy-efficient performance.
CEUs: This series qualifies for 8 CEHs through North American Technician Excellence (NATE) with the completion of all 8 parts.
6/16/2026 6:00-8:15 PM Part 7: Return-side optimization: common issues (eddy currents, pressure drops) and practical fixes through better duct design and component selection. Part 8: Supply-side upgrades for commercial duct systems. Reduce turbulence and static pressure with improved plenums, fittings, and airflow refinements to boost efficiency.

Retrofit Your Tiny! Key Energy Conversions for Going 100% Electric
2026-06-17 11:00 - 12:00
Retrofit Your Tiny! Key Energy Conversions for Going 100% Electric is a 45-minute webinar that shows how small and tiny homes (including ADUs) under 1200sf can be fully electrified and retrofitted for sustainability. Through real-world strategies, witty insights, and practical examples, attendees will learn how to overcome propane dependence, 50-amp limits, and design challenges while saving money and preparing for the green jobs of the future. The session also highlights the hybrid build approach as an efficient way to balance professional systems with homeowner electrification customization.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this webinar, attendees will be able to:
• Identify 11 retrofit strategies for converting tiny homes/ADUs to 100% electric.
• Distinguish which retrofits are best done during construction vs post-build.
• Compare budget vs high-end electrification options, including AMP requirements.
• Recognize the roles of different trade professionals in the retrofit process.
• Explain how the hybrid build approach supports affordability and customization.
• Link retrofit knowledge to professional opportunities in ADUs, electrification consulting, and climate-aligned construction.
Stacey Murphy-O’Galdez, Founder of Mystic Design by Stacey. Forward-thinking educator and consultant with deep expertise in the tiny home movement, dedicated to advancing affordable housing and sustainable living, while being environmentally conscious. Proven ability to engage stakeholders and drive cultural shifts toward climate-smart design, resiliency, and right-sized housing.

BPI’s Healthy Housing Principles: An overview of a new, free, and innovative course for CA residents Webinar
2026-07-08 12:00 - 13:00
The Eight Principles of Healthy Housing are important for understanding how homes affect occupant health, comfort, safety, and durability. These principles, such as “Keep it Dry” and “Keep it Pest Free”, are essential knowledge for contractors, HVAC technicians, real estate professionals, community health workers, and homeowners wanting to create healthier living environments.
The Healthy Housing Principles course sits at the intersection of housing quality, occupant health, and energy efficiency; a critical focus area in the push for electrification, and driven by the evidence that indoor environments significantly influence respiratory health, injury risk, and chronic disease outcomes.
In this webinar, participants will be introduced to the Eight Principles of Healthy Housing while also learning about a new, free, self-paced online course designed to support preparation for the BPI Healthy Housing Principles (HHP) Certificate Exam. We’ll explore each principle and demonstrate the course’s engaging video-based lessons, interactive activities, and real-world examples. Attendees will also learn about the course structure, available resources, and how to access the training at no cost.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify some of the Eight Principles of Healthy Housing and explain their importance in creating safe, healthy, and durable homes.
2. Describe how healthy housing concepts apply to the work of contractors, HVAC technicians, real estate professionals, community health workers, and homeowners.
3. Navigate the free online Healthy Housing Principles course and locate key learning resources and interactive content.
4. Explain how the course aligns with the BPI Healthy Housing Principles (HHP) Certificate Exam and supports exam preparation.
Presenters:
Katie Consales, Building Performance Institute (BPI)
Katie oversees BPI’s Technical Department, which ensures all certification processes align with BPI/ANSI standards. Katie entered the building performance industry in 2017, and enjoys bringing the highly technical together with the practical to keep homeowners safe and healthy, and to keep industry professionals informed and ready to do the same. She has worked as a home energy auditor, home inspector, QA inspector, technical trainer, weatherization crew supervisor, QA manager, and program manager. She currently holds the Building Analyst Technician and Building Analyst Professional certifications. Katie lives and works from her home state of New Jersey, and enjoys hiking the many trails throughout the garden state.
J. West, hph2tc
J is a seasoned training and development leader with over two decades of experience designing, delivering, and managing innovative workforce education programs. Currently serving as Contractor Training & Development Manager at AirAdvice for Homes, J. specializes in blended learning strategies—combining eLearning, remote instruction, and on the job training—to upskill professionals and strengthen brand value in the HVAC and building performance industries.
A certified instructional designer with multiple industry credentials, J. has led national training initiatives for organizations including the U.S. Department of Energy, Nest Labs, and the CEDA of Cook County. Known for creative curriculum design, technical expertise, and a passion for adult learning, J brings a dynamic, real world approach to helping organizations achieve measurable results.

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 1 & 2)
2026-08-10 18:00 - 20:15
This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California’s demanding HVAC environment.
Part 1: Understanding diagnostic service excellence and differentiating basic troubleshooting from diagnostics.
Part 2: Importance of describing root causes and establishing a step-by-step diagnostic approach.
Michael D. Griffin, IHACI Instructor.
Mike Griffin owns and operates M&M General Repair and Airflow Specialties in the San Fernando Valley, CA. He is a certified HERS Rater, IHACI Instructor, and Education Committee member. Mike is one of only 21 non-union Certified Mechanical Acceptance Testing Employers/Technicians in California. His companies specialize in energy efficiency verification, HVAC diagnostics, and compliance testing across Southern California.
Andrew Smith, IHACI Instructor.
Andrew Smith has over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry. He began his career as a helper, working his way up to technician with a company specializing in residential and light commercial projects. Along the way, he earned NATE certifications in air conditioning and heat pump service before advancing to the role of service manager. For the past 10 years, Andrew has shared his expertise as an instructor with IHACI. He currently works for National Comfort Institute and has achieved his RSES CM certification.

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 3 & 4)
2026-08-11 18:00 - 20:15
This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California’s demanding HVAC environment.
Part 3: Thoroughly defining and recording symptoms; observing, measuring and recording data.
Part 4: Comparison of standard operating data including key diagnostic data points and employing superheat and subcooling measurements.
Michael D. Griffin, IHACI Instructor.
Mike Griffin owns and operates M&M General Repair and Airflow Specialties in the San Fernando Valley, CA. He is a certified HERS Rater, IHACI Instructor, and Education Committee member. Mike is one of only 21 non-union Certified Mechanical Acceptance Testing Employers/Technicians in California. His companies specialize in energy efficiency verification, HVAC diagnostics, and compliance testing across Southern California.
Andrew Smith, IHACI Instructor.
Andrew Smith has over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry. He began his career as a helper, working his way up to technician with a company specializing in residential and light commercial projects. Along the way, he earned NATE certifications in air conditioning and heat pump service before advancing to the role of service manager. For the past 10 years, Andrew has shared his expertise as an instructor with IHACI. He currently works for National Comfort Institute and has achieved his RSES CM certification.

Heat Pump Water Heaters: Why Split Systems Matter
2026-08-12 12:00 - 13:00
Integrated “tower” heat pump water heaters were an important first step in electrification, but real-world installations reveal significant frustration and limitations around space, noise, comfort, condensate management, and performance. Split systems solve these challenges while delivering superior efficiency, homeowner comfort, and installation flexibility.
This webinar explores how heat pump water heaters actually work, the practical problems created by integrated tower designs, and why split systems are rapidly becoming a practical solution for contractors and homeowners across single-family, manufactured, multi-family, and ADU applications. You’ll see performance comparisons, real-world efficiency data, and clear guidance on when and why to consider split systems.
Get ready to move beyond the limitations of tower units and deliver better hot water solutions that prioritize customer comfort and long-term satisfaction.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify where split-system heat pump water heaters can provide advantages for contractors and homeowners
• Compare the Advantages of splits over unitary towers
• Evaluate the potential energy savings and efficiency improvements offered by split-system heat pump water heaters
Instructors:
Rod Williams, Eco-logical on behalf of BPI
Rod was born in Australia and is currently the President of Eco-logical. After completing his commerce studies, he left home to see the world at age twenty-three. His first overseas trip saw him catch the Trans-Siberian railroad across Russia which excited him for more adventure.
He has lived and worked in Australia, France, Switzerland, London and Newburyport, Massachusetts and conducted business in forty countries during his business development career. He has always had a keen interest in history and what makes people tick in each of those societies.
During the last 15 years he has worked in the energy efficiency and electrification industry whilst living in Santa Cruz, California with his wife Sheila and youngest daughter, Sophie. He considers himself bi-coastal, but in his case, meaning West Coast USA and East Coast Australia.

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 5 & 6)
2026-08-17 18:00 - 20:15
This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California’s demanding HVAC environment.
Part 5: Evaluating and analyzing data collected and investigating causal relationships.
Part 6: Testing hypotheses against the HVAC system and documenting and prioritizing probably root causes to prepare for an effective resolution strategy.
Michael D. Griffin, IHACI Instructor.
Mike Griffin owns and operates M&M General Repair and Airflow Specialties in the San Fernando Valley, CA. He is a certified HERS Rater, IHACI Instructor, and Education Committee member. Mike is one of only 21 non-union Certified Mechanical Acceptance Testing Employers/Technicians in California. His companies specialize in energy efficiency verification, HVAC diagnostics, and compliance testing across Southern California.
Andrew Smith, IHACI Instructor.
Andrew Smith has over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry. He began his career as a helper, working his way up to technician with a company specializing in residential and light commercial projects. Along the way, he earned NATE certifications in air conditioning and heat pump service before advancing to the role of service manager. For the past 10 years, Andrew has shared his expertise as an instructor with IHACI. He currently works for National Comfort Institute and has achieved his RSES CM certification.

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 7 & 8)
2026-08-18 18:00 - 20:15
This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California’s demanding HVAC environment.
Part 7: Selecting and implementing corrective actions including developing a step-by-step corrective action plan to address identified root causes.
Part 8: Client communication, decision making, executing repairs or replacements and post-action evaluation and documentation.
Michael D. Griffin, IHACI Instructor.
Mike Griffin owns and operates M&M General Repair and Airflow Specialties in the San Fernando Valley, CA. He is a certified HERS Rater, IHACI Instructor, and Education Committee member. Mike is one of only 21 non-union Certified Mechanical Acceptance Testing Employers/Technicians in California. His companies specialize in energy efficiency verification, HVAC diagnostics, and compliance testing across Southern California.
Andrew Smith, IHACI Instructor.
Andrew Smith has over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry. He began his career as a helper, working his way up to technician with a company specializing in residential and light commercial projects. Along the way, he earned NATE certifications in air conditioning and heat pump service before advancing to the role of service manager. For the past 10 years, Andrew has shared his expertise as an instructor with IHACI. He currently works for National Comfort Institute and has achieved his RSES CM certification.
