Bob Kretvix's Page

"At least you know now.  So many materials contain asbestos its probably more difficult to say it doesn't than it does.  Good luck."

"All I can say is that if it isn't known and has the appearance of something that could contain asbestos (i.e., not clearly fiberglass or mineral wool, etc), OSHA requires that it be PRESUMED to contain asbestos and treated as such until negated…"

"Never saw this, but looks a little like air-cell pipe insulation. This is considered Presumed Asbestos Containing Material.  You should have it tested by an accredited Asbestos Inspector before doing anything to disturb it. "

"You can also get types where you plug in the dimensions and it gives readings in cfm. "

"You really didn't answer how you use that cfm number.  Are you just comparing relative cfm values for each room, or do you have a specific cfm number that indicates excessive leakage?  If just a relative number, why not just use your…"

"Can you explain how you would use the thermoanemometer and your criteria for air flow to determine excessive leakage?  Besides, doesn't the anemometer measure just velocity (fpm) not volume of air (cfm) unless you know the ft2 area of the…"

"You are right about the significant cost for air sampling.  As an Industrial Hygienist, that is primarily what I do for a living (in addition to home performance audits) - we are the experts in indoor air quality and chemical exposure…"

"Dirty Sock Syndrome is actually caused by a combination of bacterial "slime" (biofilm) and mold, such as yeasts, that typically grow on the coils of the unit.  The biofilm has been described as being like the slippery, slimy surface…"

"Dmitri Gas leak detectors are generalized meters which can detect a wide variety of combustible vapors, not just natural gas and propane. Alcohols, gasoline, paint solvents, nail polish remover, aerosol propellants (e.g., butane) are examples. …"

"I should also mention that the video showed a sand filter.  My experience as a pool owner for the last 50 yrs (since I was 7 yrs old) is that the sand filters have to be run much longer.  And in many cases they don't ever get the…"

"Mike - Good video.  But also be aware of some new technology out this year that can decrease pool pump energy costs dramatically.  Hayward and Pentair just introduced new high efficiency pumps this season. Rather than running full out all…"

"Tom, Why did you have to change the plumbing in the San Diego pool?  I just purchased a Hayward Ecostar that essentially does the same thing as the Pentair for an existing pool without any noticeable problems. But you are right - these new…"

"I have to agree with your last comment the most. What we are doing is what more people in our industry SHOULD be doing. Simply talking."

"We have the Home Performance w/ Energy Star program here through Georgia Power. The program has a specific protocol and the reports give an ABCD priority to the findings of the audit. The only problem with the program is that the homeowner must…"

"Thanks Tom.  I'll take a look.  However, I just purchased a home inspection software, Home Gauge, which also has good reviews from a variety of places. I loaded with all my pre-written energy audit recommendations rather than using…"

"On the flip side of the coin, Bob, one could easily say that there are as many or MORE non-auditor contractors who will scam the customer. So the argument might be that the best judge for the best measures with the best ROI could in fact be the…"