HVAC Sealant Myths for Techs to Stop Using Outdated Beliefs & Fix Micro Leaks – Matthew Cowley Part 2

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his chat with Matthew Cowley, a North America Sales Manager: Spectroline Leak Detection (Industrial & HVAC/R) at Spectronics Corporation. They discuss the leak sealants, their proper use, and common misconceptions. Matthew explains how Spectronics' oil-based, solvent-free sealant is safe and effective for tiny evaporator leaks. Gary shares tips from his article on diagnosing and fixing leaks, stressing that sealants should only be used when repairs aren't possible. They also talk about the EZ-Ject injection method, which makes applying sealant clean and simple. The episode ends with a push for better research and open-mindedness in the HVAC trade.

Matthew Cowley explains how Spectronics Corporation's sealants work to fix very small refrigerant leaks, especially in hard-to-reach places like evaporator coils. He talks about the importance of finding and confirming a leak before using a sealant. Matthew also shares how their dye and sealant mix is safe, oil-based, and doesn’t harm HVAC systems. Gary adds tips from his own testing and stresses that sealants should be used only when proper repairs aren’t possible. They finish by urging techs to learn, test products, and stay open-minded about modern leak solutions.

Throughout this episode, Matthew talks about the safe use of leak sealants in HVAC systems. He explains that their oil-based formula works well for small leaks and doesn’t harm system parts. He and Gary stress the need to confirm a leak before using sealant and only apply it when a repair isn’t possible. Matthew also explains their clean and EZ-Ject injection tool. Lastly, they talk about learning, testing products, and staying open-minded to new tools and methods in the HVAC field.

Expect to Learn:

• Why it’s important to confirm and locate leaks before using sealants.

• How oil-based sealants work for tiny leaks without harming HVAC systems.

• Why proper injection tools like EZ-Ject make the job cleaner and safer.

• What makes Spectronics’ dyes and sealants different from others?

• The value of testing, learning, and staying open-minded about new products.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro to Part 02 with Matthew Cowley

[01:56] - When and why Spectronics Corporation added sealant to dye

[03:53] - Diagnosing leaks before using any sealant

[05:23] - Why tiny leaks may not show with soap and nitrogen

[06:56] - When an evaporator leaks means replacement, not repair

[08:56] - Online opinions vs real-world HVAC experience

[11:05] - How to test and confirm sealant success in systems

[12:33] - The EZ-Ject injection method and how it works

[14:26] - Using the correct dye amount per ton of equipment

[16:33] - Misconceptions about sealants and system safety

[18:40] - Legal issues with leaks and refrigerant in Canada

[23:13] - Closing Remarks and Acknowledgment of Organizational Legacy

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

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