HVAC Design Mistakes for HVAC Pros to Stop Oversizing and Switch to Heat Pumps with Drew Tozer Part 1

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Drew Tozer, an energy advisor and Partner at Foundry Heat Pumps, and Expert Advisor at Building Decarbonization Alliance and Jouleia, about heat pump systems and how to make homes more comfortable. They discuss common problems like hot and cold rooms, the myths around heat pumps, and why right-sizing equipment matters. Drew explains how heat pumps have improved and how to pick the best one based on home size, ductwork, and local climate. They also cover hybrid setups, electric backups, and simple tips to avoid overworking systems and keep indoor air comfy and efficient.

Drew Tozer explains how many homes have rooms that are too hot or too cold because of wrong HVAC sizing. He shares why heat pumps are a smart fix when sized right and how older myths make people avoid them. Drew says most homes don’t need gas backup and that hybrid systems help when ductwork or power panels are limited. Gary shares job stories showing how right sizing and good planning improve comfort. They both agree that knowing a home’s needs and choosing the right system can lower costs, save energy, and keep homes more comfortable year-round.

Here, Drew explains how many HVAC systems are too big for the home, which causes hot and cold spots and short run times. Like using the right shoe size, right-sizing heat pumps helps keep comfort steady. He says heat pumps now work well even in cold places, and hybrid setups help when ductwork or power is limited. Gary shares how proper installs and load checks made big comfort changes. They remind techs that smaller, well-planned systems run better, save energy, and avoid problems like noise, bad airflow, and early breakdowns.

Expect to Learn:

• Why do many homes have hot and cold rooms year-round?

• How oversized HVAC systems cause poor comfort and airflow.

• Why modern heat pumps often don’t need a gas backup.

• How hybrid systems help when ducts or power are limited.

• Why right-sizing saves energy and makes homes feel better.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Drew Tozer in Part 01

[02:07] - Modern Heat Pumps Don’t Need Gas Backup

[04:49] - Why load calculations are key for heat pumps

[05:45] - Hybrid setups for duct and power limitations

[09:25] - Oversized cooling and moisture issues explained

[11:37] - Real loads vs. guessed loads in HVAC installs

[13:32] - Choosing the best size heat pump for ductwork

[16:58] - Panel upgrades vs. staying with gas backup

[19:39] - Fixing hot/cold rooms with the right equipment sizing

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