The Truth About HVAC Sealants for Techs to Stop Leaks and Save Compressors – Matthew Cowley Part 1

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie chats with Matthew Cowley, a North America Sales Manager: Spectroline Leak Detection (Industrial & HVAC/R) at Spectronics Corporation, about the truth behind internal sealants used in HVAC systems. They explain how older polymer-based sealants caused problems due to chemical reactions, while new oil-based ones work safely with mechanical action. Matthew and Gary talk about how oil-based sealants coat leak areas from the inside without clogging or damaging parts. They also share stories from real HVAC jobs, testing tips, and why more people are starting to trust this modern sealant method.

Matthew Cowley explains how modern oil-based sealants are safer for HVAC systems than old polymer ones. He shares how these sealants coat tiny leaks from inside without hardening or clogging parts. Matthew talks about how they need pressure, heat, and small leak spots to work well. He also explains why these sealants don’t hide damage but help prevent bigger leaks. Gary adds real job stories showing how these sealants fixed small leaks without harming systems. They both agree that with testing and care, this method can save time, money, and prevent future service calls.

Here, Matthew explains how oil-based sealants work safely by coating leaks from the inside without reacting to air. Like using oil between gears, it seals without blocking flow. He talks about how these sealants need heat, pressure, and tiny leak spots to work well. Matthew warns that they won't fix big leaks, but are great for small, hard-to-find ones. Gary adds that testing over time shows no damage to systems. They remind techs that using sealant with care can help avoid repeat leaks and keep systems running quietly and smoothly.

Expect to Learn:

• Why old polymer sealants cause damage in HVAC systems.

• How oil-based sealants work without hardening or clogging.

• Why are these sealants best for tiny, hard-to-find leaks?

• How real job testing shows they don’t harm compressors.

• Why careful use can help stop leaks and avoid callbacks.

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00] - Intro to Matthew Cowley in Part 1

[02:10] - Story of polymer sealants and compressor failure

[04:28] - Polymer vs. oil-based sealants explained simply

[06:00] - Real job testing and honest sealant results

[07:25] - How tiny leaks are found and sealed internally

[09:21] - How oil-based sealants coat and seal from inside

[13:12] - Parts per million tests show shrinking leak rates

[14:51] - Automotive use and why OEMs trust this tech

[17:00] - Why some HVAC pros now add sealant on install

[20:30] - OEM trust proves sealants work

 

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca/

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/

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