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In this episode of The Flow Lab, hosts Ben Walker and Sam Myers sit down with Colin Genge, founder of RetroTec and a pioneer in building science and HVAC innovation. They take a look at the origins of blower doors, the evolution of air tightness testing, and the future of energy conservation.

Collin shares fascinating observations of the early days of RetroTech, the challenges of breaking into the market, and how the industry has changed over the years. He also investigates renewable energy, AI, and the future of building performance.

This episode is packed with wisdom for HVAC professionals, building scientists, and anyone interested in energy efficiency and technological advancements.

Collin Genge is a pioneer in building science, best known for founding RetroTech, a leader in air tightness and HVAC testing equipment. With decades of experience, Collin has played a crucial role in shaping energy efficiency standards worldwide. Now retired and living in New Zealand, he continues to analyze renewable energy and disruptive technology.

Expect to Learn

• The garage startup story of RetroTech and the origins of blower doors.
• How energy conservation and air tightness testing have evolved since the 1980s.
• The impact of government programs and regulations on building performance.
• Why renewable energy and AI are shaping the future of the industry.
• Lessons from decades in business, including the challenges of entrepreneurship.

In Today’s Episode

[00:42] – Introduction [02:04] – How the industry began [02:36] – Collin’s experience with media and industry recognition

[03:22] – Collin’s Life After Retirement

[05:16] – The origins of blower door testing in the 1980s

[07:16] – How a garage project turned into a pioneering company

[09:10] – The Meaning Behind 'RetroTech'

[10:02] – Government Programs & Energy Policy

[17:32] – The Birth of Enclosure Integrity Testing

[22:58] – The Rise of Duct Testing

[29:13] – Product Development Challenges

[31:41] – The Future of Energy & AI

[46:15] – Advice for the Industry

[51:42] – Closing Thoughts

Connect with Colin Genge:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-genge-44338014/

Follow the Hosts:

Ben Walker (Co-CEO, Retrotec) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walker-4a05901/

Sam Myers (Building Science Specialist & Trainer) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-myers-ms-a9a4a546/

Website: https://retrotec.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/retrotec/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retrotec/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RetrotecEnergy/

#BuildingScience #BlowerDoor #EnergyEfficiency #PassiveHouse #AirTightness #HVAC #SustainableBuilding #Retrotec #HomePerformance