Deppmann Academy — Detroit
About this Event
Join RL Deppmann for the 2026 Deppmann Academy — a full-day seminar covering key topics, including hydronic system design and pumping strategies, glycol in hydronic HVAC systems, and more. Led by industry experts, this event offers practical insights, hands-on demos, and networking opportunities. Attendees will earn PDH credits while learning strategies to improve system performance and stay current with industry trends.
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM - 08:30 AM
Breakfast
🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:30 AM
The Great Debate: Primary-Secondary vs. Variable Primary
Host: Mark Fine
Info: Effective hydronic system design involves more than connecting pumps, boilers, and piping. This session explores how piping arrangements, pumping strategies, pressure control, expansion, and air management work together to influence system efficiency, reliability, and performance. Attendees will learn about common design challenges and the decisions that help ensure successful system operation.
🕑: 09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Break
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Glycol 101: What Changes When You Add Glycol?
Host: Alex Overweg
Info: Adding glycol to a hydronic system does more than provide freeze protection, it changes how the entire system performs. In this fast-paced, practical session, we’ll break down what engineers and contractors need to know when designing, selecting, and working with glycol-based HVAC systems.
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Break
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Small Boilers, Big Decisions: Designing for Performance
Host: Jason Winslow
Info: This session explores the design and installation of small commercial boiler systems, focusing on how equipment selection and system design influence overall performance. Topics include piping and pumping strategies, boiler sizing and turndown, and differences in control capabilities across manufacturers. The session also examines venting requirements, including layout, allowable vent lengths, and practical approaches to common design and installation challenges.
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Lunch with a Twist: B&G Pump Teardown and Maintenance
Host: Brad Notter
Info: Join Brad Notter and a technician for a hands-on lunch demonstration as they disassemble a Bell & Gossett pump, sharing practical maintenance tips and demonstrating how to replace key components.
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Better Water Solutions
Host: Chip Bidigare
Info: Explore EasyWater by Watts water treatment options for domestic water, cooling tower, and closed-loop systems. This session examines how these technologies can reduce or, in suitable applications, eliminate chemical use while improving energy efficiency, reducing equipment maintenance, and minimizing environmental impact.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:15 PM
Break
🕑: 02:15 PM - 03:15 PM
Beyond Dual Fuel: Designing Resilient Healthcare Domestic Hot Water Systems
Host: Nick Tabar
Info: Evolving DOE efficiency requirements for commercial water heaters are prompting a fresh look at healthcare domestic hot water design, where natural gas/No. 2 fuel oil dual-fuel water heaters have traditionally supported continuity of operation. This session examines the implications of these requirements, key considerations when transitioning from non-condensing to condensing equipment, and alternative strategies for maintaining reliable hot water service. Topics include indirect heating from dual-fuel boiler plants, propane backup for compatible condensing equipment, hybrid gas/electric systems, and CO2 heat pump water heating. Attendees will gain practical insights into evaluating these options and balancing efficiency, reliability, and operational needs.
🕑: 03:15 PM - 03:30 PM
Break
🕑: 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Tight Spaces, Smart Solutions: Navigating Mechanical Retrofits
Host: Ryan Groves
Info: Retrofitting existing buildings requires practical solutions to complex engineering challenges. This one-hour session explores mechanical-room layout, equipment replacement, system integration, and the importance of verifying existing field conditions. Topics include hydraulic analysis, pump requirements, vent sizing, and applicable code requirements. Attendees will learn strategies for addressing limited space, structural obstructions, and existing system deficiencies, including when packaged equipment solutions can provide a practical alternative to conventional designs.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
