Episodes

  • How Airflow vs Static Pressure Mistakes & Bad Filters Are Killing HVAC Systems - Eric Ruggles Part 1

    How Airflow vs Static Pressure Mistakes & Bad Filters Are Killing HVAC Systems - Eric Ruggles Part 1
    Apr 24 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Eric Ruggles, Director of Engineering at Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET), to discuss the key differences between airflow and static pressure and how to measure both correctly. Eric explains how airflow is calculated using air velocity and duct size, while static pressure is measured across system components to understand system performance. The conversation covers tools like hot wire anemometers and manometers, along with proper testing methods such as duct traversing and pressure tip placement. Gary and Eric also explore common issues like high static pressure caused by poor duct design, dirty filters, or oversized equipment, and how these problems can impact overall system efficiency. In this conversation, Eric explains the differences between airflow and static pressure in HVAC systems and how each one is measured. He describes how airflow is based on air speed and duct size, while static pressure shows how much resistance the system has. Eric and Gary discuss tools like hot wire anemometers and manometers, along with proper testing methods such as duct traversing and pressure tip placement. They also cover how issues like dirty filters, poor duct design, and system restrictions can raise static pressure and reduce overall system performance and airflow. Expect to Learn: How airflow and static pressure differ and why both matter in HVAC systems. How to use tools like hot wire anemometers and manometers for proper testing. How duct traversing helps get accurate airflow measurements. How static pressure testing can identify restrictions in filters and ductwork. How issues like dirty filters, poor duct design, and closed vents affect system performance. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters [00:42] - Intro to Eric Ruggles in Part 1 [02:34] - Static pressure and airflow are different, and need different tools [04:18] - Eric: Air speed units (ft/min, m/s) & calculating volume [07:15] - Hot wire anemometer: traverse duct, app calculates CFM [10:56] - Static pressure: positive on supply, negative on return [16:48] - Total external static: check return & supply sides separately [19:42] - Remove filter to test restriction; 1" high-MERV vs. 5" filter [23:61] - Plugging vents raises static, harms the system This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Eric Ruggles on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ruggles-28a84424/ Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET): https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritchie-engineering-co-yellow-jacket-/ Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET) - Website: https://yellowjacket.com/ Follow the Host on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ Follow the Podcast on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455
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    25 mins
  • HVAC Business Growth for Married Entrepreneurs to Build Legacy Over Safe Careers with Cody Brasseal & Emily Brasseal

    HVAC Business Growth for Married Entrepreneurs to Build Legacy Over Safe Careers with Cody Brasseal & Emily Brasseal
    Apr 22 2026

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Cody Brasseal, President of Acadiana Comfort Systems and Emily Brasseal from Acadiana Comfort Systems. As a husband-and-wife team, they share their experiences of building a successful HVAC business while navigating the challenges of balancing work and family life. The conversation dives into their journey, offering valuable insights into overcoming obstacles such as office and field friction, understanding the importance of family support, and creating a positive company culture.

    Cody has extensive experience in the field, while Emily joined the business after working as an occupational therapist. Together, they've built a thriving business and share their personal and professional journey of working together as a married couple, raising a family, and managing the challenges of owning a small business.

    Expect to Learn

    - How to balance family life and running a business together.

    - The importance of empathy and clear communication in a family-owned business.

    - Strategies for overcoming friction between office and field teams.

    - Tips for ensuring the success of a family-run HVAC business.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00:00] – Introduction

    [00:01:35] – Early Business Challenges

    [00:03:11] – The Fluid Nature of Business and Family Life

    [00:05:18] – The Importance of Family Support

    [00:07:06] – Leadership and the Decision to Bring Emily into the Business

    [00:10:23] – Transitioning from a Job to Full-Time Business Owner

    [00:13:58] – Overcoming Field vs. Office Tension

    [00:16:24] – Managing Tension Between Office and Field Staff

    This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:
    PartsTown: https://www.partstown.com/hvac-parts

    Follow our Guests Cody Brasseal & Emily Brasseal and their Company:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-brasseal-0355421ba

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cody.j.brasseal/

    • Company Website: https://acadianacomfort.com/

    • Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AcadianaComfort/

    • Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acadiana_comfort/

    Follow Gary McCreadie:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

    • Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    Follow Furman Haynes:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

    • WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/
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    19 mins
  • HVAC Compressor Failures Caused by Airflow, Charging, and Installation Errors - Matthew Waxer Part 3

    HVAC Compressor Failures Caused by Airflow, Charging, and Installation Errors - Matthew Waxer Part 3
    Apr 20 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Matthew Waxer, HVAC/R Mechanic at Kilmer HVACR Services Inc, about the key factors that impact system performance and compressor life. In Part 3, they focus on the importance of proper maintenance, airflow, and system setup from installation through operation. Matthew explains how correct airflow, refrigerant charge, and fluid mixtures like glycol all play a role in system efficiency and reliability. They also discuss common field mistakes such as poor airflow around equipment, incorrect glycol ratios, and refrigerant loss during servicing. The conversation wraps up with practical tips on maintenance practices, using probes instead of gauges, and avoiding contamination to keep systems running properly over time. Gary and Matthew discuss the key steps needed to keep HVAC systems running properly, focusing on maintenance, airflow, and correct setup. They explain how proper airflow across indoor and outdoor units is critical for system performance and how poor installation choices can lead to long-term issues. Matthew highlights the importance of correct refrigerant charge, coil sizing, and fluid flow in systems using glycol, including how improper mixtures can reduce efficiency or cause freezing problems. They also cover common service mistakes like refrigerant loss and contamination when using gauges. They finish by sharing practical tips such as using probes, checking airflow, and following proper maintenance practices to protect system life. Expect to Learn: How proper maintenance helps extend the life of HVAC systems and prevent costly breakdowns. How correct airflow across indoor and outdoor units affects system performance and reliability. Why proper refrigerant charge and coil sizing are important for efficient operation. How glycol mixtures impact heat transfer, flow, and freezing protection in fluid systems. How using probes and careful service methods can reduce refrigerant loss and system contamination. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad [00:42] - Intro to Matthew Waxer in Part 03 [02:13] - Why maintenance matters for compressor life [03:30] - Airflow setup: Indoor coil sizing & outdoor obstructions [05:32] - Glycol systems: Mixture %, freezing point, refractometer use [10:07] - Manifold vs. probes: Refrigerant loss & contamination risks [15:33] - Outro & next episode This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Matthew Waxer: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-waxer-b4a62360/ Kilmer HVACR Service Inc - Website: https://kilmerservice.com/ Follow the Host on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ Follow the Podcast on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455
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    16 mins
  • HVAC Techs Are Destroying Compressors with Moisture and Charging Mistakes - Matthew Waxer Part 2

    HVAC Techs Are Destroying Compressors with Moisture and Charging Mistakes - Matthew Waxer Part 2
    Apr 16 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Matthew Waxer, HVAC/R Mechanic at Kilmer HVACR Services Inc, about proper system setup and the impact of moisture and refrigerant charge on system performance. In Part 2, they discuss evacuation practices, moisture control, and how acid can form inside a system and damage components. Matthew explains the risks of undercharging and overcharging, including overheating, high-pressure issues, and liquid returning to the compressor. They also cover concepts like superheat, subcooling, and compressor envelopes, along with common failure causes such as flood back and flooded starts. The conversation wraps up with practical insights on avoiding costly breakdowns through proper installation and maintenance. Gary and Matthew discuss how moisture and refrigerant charge affect system performance and compressor life. They explain how poor evacuation leaves moisture in the system, which can lead to acid formation and damage over time. Matthew describes the risks of undercharging and overcharging, including overheating, high-pressure issues, and liquid returning to the compressor. They also cover key checks like superheat, subcooling, and staying within the compressor operating range. They finish by explaining common failure causes like flood back and flooded starts, and how proper setup and maintenance can prevent costly system damage. Expect to Learn: How moisture left in a system can lead to acid and damage over time. How proper evacuation helps reduce moisture and protect system components. Why is the correct refrigerant charge important for compressor cooling and performance? How superheat and subcooling are used to check system operation. How issues like floods and flooded starts can cause major compressor failure. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Sponsor: Factory Direct Filters ad [00:42] - Intro to Matthew Waxer in Part 02 [02:04] - Matthew: Moisture removal and decay test explained [04:27] - Gary & Matthew: Acid formation from moisture damages compressors [07:10] - Undercharged systems: Elevated superheat cooks compressors [10:31] - Overcharge and poor airflow cause high pressure and slugging [15:22] - Zero superheat = liquid flood back to compressor [17:40] - Flooded start: Liquid refrigerant in sump destroys compressor [21:18] - Liquid migration from risers and cold ambient starts This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Matthew Waxer on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-waxer-b4a62360/ Kilmer HVACR Service Inc - Website: https://kilmerservice.com/ Follow the Host on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ Follow the Podcast on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455
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    22 mins
  • How HVAC Owners Can Fix Broken Ops and Build Smarter Teams with AI - Andrew Blair

    How HVAC Owners Can Fix Broken Ops and Build Smarter Teams with AI - Andrew Blair
    Apr 15 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Andrew Blair, Director of Product and Market Development at Helix Earth and Advisor / Angel Investor at various startups, the conversation dives into the journey of scaling an HVAC and commercial refrigeration business from early scrappy operations to a multi-million dollar company. Andrew Blair is an experienced HVAC and commercial refrigeration professional who transitioned from hands-on fieldwork into business leadership. He played a key role in growing Kensington into a ~$6M operation, optimizing systems, and building team culture. Andrew is now the Director of Product and Market Development at Helix Earth Technologies, where he focuses on innovative HVAC solutions, bringing both field and business expertise into product development. Expect to Learn How to transition from technician to business leader (and the mistakes to expect) The real challenges of implementing service software like Jobber and ServiceTitan Why company culture and individualized management matter at scale Practical ways AI is already improving HVAC operations and technician performance What the future of AI and innovation looks like in the trades industry Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:01:36] - Early Business Challenges [00:03:11] - Scaling Operations & Growing Pains [00:05:18] - Leadership & Managing People [00:09:35] - Getting the Most Out of Software Tools [00:14:52] - The Future of AI in the Trades [00:16:00] - New Chapter: Helix Earth Technologies [00:18:04] - Closing Thoughts & Takeaways This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: PartsTown: https://www.partstown.com/hvac-parts Follow our Guest Andrew Blair: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-blair-/ Company Website: https://www.helixearth.com/ Company LinkedIn: - Helix Earth: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helixearth/ Follow Gary McCreadie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ Follow Furman Haynes: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/ WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/
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    19 mins
  • What Causes HVAC Compressor Failure? Installation Oil Problems and Sizing Errors - Matthew Waxer Part 1

    What Causes HVAC Compressor Failure? Installation Oil Problems and Sizing Errors - Matthew Waxer Part 1
    Apr 14 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Matthew Waxer, HVAC/R Mechanic at Kilmer HVACR Services Inc, to discuss how to prevent compressor failure through proper installation, service, and maintenance practices. Matthew explains how many compressor failures are caused by system issues like poor brazing, incorrect sizing, and a lack of proper oil return. The conversation covers key factors such as nitrogen purging, moisture control, and the impact of short cycling or overheating on compressor life. Gary and Matthew also explore what can be learned from compressor tear-downs and how small mistakes over time can lead to major failures. In this conversation, Matthew explains how proper installation and maintenance practices help prevent compressor failure in HVAC systems. He describes how issues like poor nitrogen purging, moisture contamination, and incorrect system sizing can damage compressors over time. Matthew and Gary discuss how oil return, airflow, and system load affect compressor performance and lifespan. They also cover what technicians can learn from compressor tear-downs, including signs of overheating and lack of lubrication, and explain how careful setup and servicing can improve reliability and system efficiency. Expect to Learn: How proper installation practices help prevent compressor failure in HVAC systems. Why nitrogen purging and moisture control are critical to system reliability. How incorrect sizing can lead to short cycling or overheating issues. What causes poor oil return, and how does it affect compressor lubrication and lifespan? How teardowns reveal common failure points and help improve service practices. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters [00:42] - Intro to Matthew Waxer in Part 1 [02:04] - Main topic: Avoiding compressor failure [04:06] - "Compressors don't fail, they're murdered." [05:36] - Start with proper installation [07:06] - Proper system sizing: avoid short cycling [09:18] - Read manuals & check oil return requirements [10:38] - Oil return issues from clogged components [16:41] - POE oil moisture risks & proper vacuuming [21:55] - POE oil additives & system open time myth This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Matthew Waxer on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-waxer-b4a62360/ Kilmer HVACR Service Inc - Website: https://kilmerservice.com/ Follow the Host on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ Follow the Podcast on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455
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    25 mins
  • HVAC Mental Health: From Attention Seeking Trauma to Discipline with Adam Gordon Part 2

    HVAC Mental Health: From Attention Seeking Trauma to Discipline with Adam Gordon Part 2
    Apr 9 2026
    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with Adam Gordon, Director of Service and Maintenance, Mechanical Division at Orella Group Inc, in the Mental Health series. Adam speaks openly about how past trauma shaped his need for attention and validation, and how that showed up in his life and on social media. He talks about learning to manage those habits by focusing on fitness, discipline, family time, and building positive routines. Adam also shares the value of surrounding yourself with good people, finding mentors, and using social media in a healthier way. The episode highlights the importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and reaching out for help or guidance when dealing with mental health challenges. Gary and Adam discuss mental health in the trades and the personal challenges that can shape a person's life and behaviour. Adam speaks openly about growing up between two households and how a lack of attention led to a strong need for validation as an adult. They talk about how that showed up through social media, relationships, and conflict online. Adam also explains how he now focuses on healthier habits like fitness, structured routines, family time, and surrounding himself with positive people. The conversation highlights the value of self-awareness, mentorship, and reaching out to others when dealing with personal struggles or mental health challenges. Expect to Learn: How past experiences can shape behaviour and the need for validation. Why calm responses can help reduce conflict on social media and in daily life. How routines like fitness, early mornings, and structured days support mental health. Why does surrounding yourself with positive people and mentors matter? How reaching out and having honest conversations can help during tough times. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Adam Gordon in Part 02 [02:01] - Late-night self-reflection [04:19] - The dark side of social media [05:45] - Escaping through attention seeking [07:54] - Fitness, routine & healthy validation [11:08] - Why your circle matters [14:36] - Loyalty vs. drama [17:16] - Current mindset & advice for others [19:31] - Advice for those struggling: reach out This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Adam Gordon on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-gordon-494a54bb/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gordonbotplumbing/ Orella Group Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/orella-group-inc/ Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/
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    22 mins
  • HVAC Business Owners Fail Without Field Experience to Build Real Growth with Andrew Blair

    HVAC Business Owners Fail Without Field Experience to Build Real Growth with Andrew Blair
    Apr 8 2026

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero sit down with Andrew Blair, Director of Product and Market Development at Helix Earth and Advisor / Angel Investor at various startups, to explore the journey from growing up in a family-owned HVAC business to becoming a key operator in a commercial refrigeration company. The conversation dives into the realities of the skilled trades, the growing talent shortage, and the operational challenges of running a service-based business, especially in mission-critical environments like refrigeration.

    The episode also highlights the evolving nature of trade education, licensing complexities, and what it truly takes to build and scale a successful HVAC business. Andrew Blair is an experienced HVAC and commercial refrigeration professional who grew up in the industry through his family's business, Kensington Mechanical.

    Expect to Learn

    • Why HVAC is one of the most underrated but complex skilled trades

    • How trade schools and partnerships can solve the labor shortage

    • The importance of field experience when running a service business

    • Differences between residential HVAC and commercial refrigeration work

    • How to handle high-pressure, mission-critical service environments

    Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

    [00:00:00] – Introduction

    [00:01:57] – Growing Up in a Family HVAC Business

    [00:03:45] – Why HVAC Stands Out Among the Trades

    [00:04:27] – Skilled Labor Shortage & Trade School Partnerships

    [00:06:33] – Licensing Challenges & Industry Evolution

    [00:09:19] – From Apprentice to COO: Scaling a Family Business

    [00:14:26] – Understanding Commercial Refrigeration & Critical Environments

    [00:18:38] – Advice for Entering Commercial Refrigeration

    This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:
    PartsTown: https://www.partstown.com/hvac-parts

    Follow our Guest Andrew Blair:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-blair-/

    • Company Website: https://www.helixearth.com/

    • Company LinkedIn - Helix Earth: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helixearth/

    Follow Gary McCreadie:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

    • Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    Follow Furman Haynes:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/

    • WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workhero__/
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    22 mins