"HVAC Bounty: Share and Earn Rewards."

Level 1: "The Trendsetter" (Cases – Individually Evaluated)

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• Description: You're a pioneer in the field, encountering unique challenges and installations others haven’t seen. This level is for truly exceptional cases that push the boundaries of HVAC knowledge. We want to learn from your experience with cutting-edge technology or unusual scenarios.

• Requirements (Minimum):

• • Mandatory use of Manufacturers Data collection tool.

    Unique Installation/Rare Equipment: Documentation of an installation significantly deviating from standard practices, a rare or discontinued equipment model, or a novel application of HVAC technology. Explain why it's unique.

  • Combined Heating & Cooling Data: A minimum of 2 hours of continuous operational data for both heating and cooling modes (or 1 hour each). Mandatory use of Manufacturers Data collection tools which must include:

    • Temperature readings (supply/return air, ambient temperature)

    • Pressure readings (refrigerant pressures – high/low side)

    • Voltage and Amperage draw.

    • Compressor runtime.

  • Detailed Failure Analysis (if applicable): If the unique installation or equipment is experiencing issues, a thorough description of the problem.

  • Visual Documentation: High-quality photos and videos demonstrating the installation/repair process, failure points, and any unusual aspects. Videos should be short (<5 minutes) and clearly narrated.

  • Technician Notes: A comprehensive narrative explaining the situation, your observations, and any lessons learned.

Level 2: "The Forensics Technician" 

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• Description: You're a master diagnostician, able to pinpoint the root cause of even the most elusive HVAC failures. This level requires in-depth analysis and meticulous documentation.

• Requirements (Minimum):

• • Mandatory use of Manufacturers Data collection tool.

    Detailed Failure Report: A comprehensive report detailing the failure of a component or system. This must include:

    • Symptoms observed before failure.

    • Step-by-step diagnostic process used to identify the root cause.

    • Clear explanation of why the component failed (e.g., wear and tear, electrical surge, manufacturing defect).

  • Root Cause Analysis: A technician's professional assessment of the underlying reason for the failure – beyond just identifying the faulty part. (e.g., "The compressor failed due to repeated short-cycling caused by a malfunctioning thermostat.")

  • Replaced Parts List: Detailed list of all parts replaced, including manufacturer and model numbers.

  • Visual Documentation: High-quality photos and videos showing:

    • The failed component(s).

    • Evidence supporting your root cause analysis (e.g., burnt wiring, corrosion).

    • The replacement process.

  • Operational Data (1 hour each mode): 1 hour of continuous data collection during both cooling and heating modes before the failure occurred (if possible) or immediately after repair to verify functionality. Include: Temperature readings, Pressure Readings, Voltage/Amperage.

Level 3: "The Diagnostic Diver"

• Description: You're a data-driven technician who understands the importance of capturing detailed operational information. Your mission is to provide comprehensive system performance data for analysis.

• Requirements (Minimum):

• • Mandatory use of Manufacturers Data collection tool.

    Detailed Operational Data: 1 hour of continuous, logged data during both cooling and heating modes. This must include:

    • Error Codes (if any) – document all error codes displayed by the system.

    • Supply & Return Air Temperature Readings (at multiple points if possible).

    • Refrigerant Pressure Readings (high/low side).

    • Compressor Data (runtime, cycles, amperage draw).

    • Voltage and Amperage readings for key components.

  • Observed Issues: Detailed notes on any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance anomalies observed during data collection.

  • Visual Documentation: Photos of the equipment being monitored, including close-ups of gauges and control panels. Screenshots of data screens are required.

Level 4: Apprentice – "The Rising Star"

• Description: You're building your skills and gaining valuable experience in the field. This level is designed to help you learn and contribute to our data collection efforts.

• Requirements (Minimum):

• • Mandatory use of Manufacturers Data collection tool.

    Basic System Data: Refrigerant Type, Voltage, Amperage Readings (while running), Estimated Age of System + Photos of key components (compressor, condenser, evaporator). Screenshots of data screens are required.

  • Useful Recorded Data: Providing 1 hour of useful recorded data will increase your experience to a Level 3 Diagnostic Diver status. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and earn access to higher-paying bounty levels. Data should include temperature readings (supply/return) and voltage/amperage.