Performance Tested Comfort Systems has sunset (posted Nov. 1, 2023)
The PTCS program has sunset. No new entries will be accepted after 9/30/23.
Limited support (edits may take 2-3 business days) for corrections, approvals, and reporting will be provided until 3/31/24. Please email ResHVAC@BPA.gov or call 503-230-3279 (leave a message) if you need PTCS assistance.
For more information, please refer to the FAQ document.
Performance Tested Comfort Systems has sunset (posted Oct. 3, 2023)
The PTCS program has sunset. No new entries will be accepted after 9/30/23.
Limited support for corrections, approvals, and reporting will be provided until 10/31/23. Starting on 11/1/23, please call 503-230-3279 or email ResHVAC@BPA.gov if you need PTCS assistance.
For more information, please refer to the FAQ document.
REMINDER: Performance Tested Comfort Systems sunsetting on 9/30/23 (updated Sept. 12, 2023)
The PTCS program is sunsetting. Projects must be fully completed, and entered into the PTCS Registry by 9/30/23.
Any project entered after 9/30/23 will not meet the program requirements as the program ends at midnight 9/30/23.
For more information, please refer to the FAQ document.
Prescriptive Duct Sealing Certification Closing (posted June 6, 2023)
The Prescriptive Duct Sealing certification through PTCS is closing on June 15, 2023.
The virtual training site to certify technicians for Prescriptive Duct Sealing will be open and can still be accessed through June 15, 2023.
Click here to access the virtual training site.
Training Update (posted May 8, 2023)
PTCS Air Source Heat Pump Commissioning
When: Friday, May 8th – Benton REA, West Richland, WA. 8 am – 3:30 pm
What: Live training with Bruce Manclark will teach HVAC technicians how to commission heat pumps according to PTCS specifications.
How to Register: Email or call the PTCS program ResHVAC@bpa.gov or 1.800.941.3867
Training Update (posted February 21, 2023)
PTCS Air Source Heat Pump Commissioning
When:
Tuesday, March 7th – Clark County, WA. FULL
Friday, March 24th – Benton REA, West Richland, WA. 8 am – 3:30 pm FULL - 2nd class pending, email to get on wait list
What: Live training with Bruce Manclark will teach HVAC technicians how to commission heat pumps according to PTCS specifications.
How to Register: Email or call the PTCS program ResHVAC@bpa.gov or 1.800.941.3867
Performance Tested Comfort Systems sun setting (posted February 2, 2023)
BPA's Performance Tested Comfort Systems, or PTCS, will officially be sun setting Sept. 30, 2023, coinciding with the end of the current rate period. In its 25 year history, the PTCS program has certified hundreds of thousands of Heat Pump installations, trained thousands of contractors and significantly transformed the residential heat pump market in the Pacific Northwest successfully leveraging this energy savings HVAC technology.
The sunsetting of the PTCS programs marks a giant and unique success story in energy efficiency market transformation with many people instrumental to the success of the program over the years. While this is not the end of BPA's heat pump program, it is a turning point needed to address new and evolving market needs and trends. Heat pumps will continue to be an integral part of BPA's strategy in the region to meet aggressive climate and energy policy goals.
A formal IM Change Notice announcement will be posted April 1, 2023. Projects must be fully completed, entered into the PTCS Registry and "BPA-approved" by 9/30/23 to be eligible for PTCS incentives (no exceptions).
Further details will be provided in the April 1 Change Notice. For more information, please refer to the FAQ document and stay tuned for additional announcements.
New DOE National Standards impact heat and cooling efficiency ratings) (posted October 28, 2022)
The Department of Energy is changing the way HVAC systems are tested and updating the national standards for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, or HSPF, and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER. With this change, new rating values and nomenclature will be used to denote the efficiency ratings. The new, improved testing procedures for HSPF2 (heating efficiency) and SEER2 (cooling efficiency) will better represent external conditions seen in the field. These ratings will go live January 1, 2023. Using the new test methodology, manufacturers will determine equipment HSPF2/SEER2 ratings and print them on the AHRI Certificate for units manufactured Jan 1, 2023 or after. For units manufactured before Jan 1, 2023, the AHRI Certificate will continue to show the old HSPF/SEER rating based on the prior test methodology.
BPA/PTCS recognizes this change goes into effect mid-Rate Period and requires changes to the HVAC requirements and specification in the Implementation Manual. For the Oct 2022 IM, BPA included the current efficiency requirements (HSPF/SEER) and provided new qualifying values (HSPF2/SEER2) for equipment brought to market after Jan 1, 2023. Without the addition of the new BPA qualifying values, HVAC equipment manufactured after January 1, 2023 would not qualify for BPA/PTCS payments.
Below are the Residential UES Measures (with or without PTCS) that are affected.
PTCS Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
PTCS Variable Speed Heat Pumps (VSHP) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
ASHP Conversion from Electric Forced-air Furnace (EFAF) (wo PTCS) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
VSASHP Conversion from EFAF (wo PTCS) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
ASHP Upgrade (wo PTCS) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
VSASHP Upgrade (wo PTCS) will need to be 7.6 HSPF2 or above, and 13.4 SEER2 or above, the current standard is 9.0 HSPF or above and 14.0 SEER or above.
PTCS Commissioning, Controls and Sizing for Heat Pumps < 9.0 HSPF will need to be less than 7.6 HSPF2, the current standard is less than 9.0 HSPF.
Due to BPA’s implementation manual change and notice policies, BPA did not implement the new national baseline for October 2022. BPA must give utilities 6 months’ notice before substantial changes to requirements, savings and payments. Incorporating the new national standard baseline for HVAC equipment may result in requirements, savings, and payment changes to BPA’s HVAC offerings. With this in mind, utilities and contractors can expect updates to the HVAC measures for the October 2023 implementation manual.
Attention PTCS Trainers: Conduit NW Training materials migration (ConduitNW is sunsetting) (posted August 4, 2022)
ConduitNW is closing at the end of September, 2022 and PTCS training materials may no longer be available after August 12, 2022. The entire website will be removed as of October 1, 2022. The PTCS program has transferred copies of those training materials to HVAC - Bonneville Power Administration (bpa.gov) (see new section called “Trainer-ConduitNW Migration”). Materials for PTCS Duct Sealing Training and PTCS Heat Pump Training include: PowerPoint Presentations, Trainee Manuals, Exams and Exam Answer Keys, Certificates and Class Roster forms.
The Exam Answer Keys are password protected, and can be obtained by trainers by contacting the BPA Programs Manager at 503-230-3000, or CLEAResult PTCS team at 800-941-3867, or email at ResHVAC@BPA.gov.
PTCS Redesign - New Feature - Offline Entry (posted July 27, 2022)
On Aug. 2, 2022, the PTCS Registry is adding a new feature: Offline Entry.
Offline Entry allows users to enter and save measure data when cell signal or internet access is not available. The
tool is initially accessed by visiting the PTCS homepage through your phone’s web browser and a few Offline
Entry files are downloaded to your device.
Project data for PTCS air source heat pumps, PTCS variable speed heat pumps, PTCS ground-source heat pumps,
PTCS duct sealing, and prescriptive duct is saved to your device that can be uploaded to the online registry
website when back online. When uploading these saved files, projects receive a measure ID and job status that
is helpful to the utility claiming the measure for payment. Users can enter as much or as little data as necessary
while offline as the Registry will give you an opportunity to fill in any missing information when back online.
The PTCS team at CLEAResult will conduct How-To webinars for utility and contractor personnel shortly after the
launch. These are scheduled for Aug. 9 and 10th respectively:
August 9th, 8-8:30 am Utility Webinar; https://meet.goto.com/834518781
August 10th, 8-8:30 am Contractor Webinar https://meet.goto.com/802719013
Please stay tuned for webinar details.
For a sneak peek: Watch the tutorial video here for more details on how to use the Offline Entry feature: PTCS Offline Entry (https://youtu.be/9zZhq9521gs)
Questions: Contact the PTCS Call Center at resHVAC@bpa.gov | 1.800.941.3867
Registry Homepage Reconfigured / New VSHP Reference List Published (posted May 17, 2022)
The PTCS Online Site Registry homepage was reconfigured to better show “Announcements.” The Announcements section was raised up into the main homepage on the left third of page for better viewing. A special button was added to collapse/expand the text. Users can easily scroll down through the list to view prior announcements.
A new updated VSHP Reference list was posted to Online Site Registry under the “Need Technical Support Materials?” button and under the link: “Ducted Heat Pump Variable Speed Reference List.” The list assists the Registry in correctly calling out VSHPs for the Registry Installation Report. Over 200 additional rows of qualifying product were added and posted May 9, 2022.
Please direct any questions or comments to us by email at resHVAC@bpa.gov, or calling the Contact Center at 1-800-941-3867.
Linking PTCS Redesign documents completed in Registry (posted April 28, 2022)
We have completed linking all the revised documents in the Registry that support the redesigned PTCS program and launch that occurred April 1, 2022. This includes:
- Forms
- Specs
- Technical Support Materials
- Marketing Materials
- Training Materials
Please use the Registry at ptcs.bpa.gov to obtain these documents.
Please access on-demand trainings for sales and admin personnel at the Virtual PTCS School at CLEAResult.Moodle.School. Additionally, see Announcements on the homepage for details about upcoming virtual trainings for PTCS Certification.
We are beginning work to update/redesign the Registry homepage to better feature "Announcements" and "Training" for the purposes of improving program communication. More to come soon.
Please direct any questions or comments to us by emails resHVAC@bpa.gov, or calling the Contact Center at 1-800-941-3867
Thanks, your PTCS Team.
PTCS Annual Refresher webinars and Train-the-Trainer session (posted April 14, 2022)
PTCS annual refresher webinars: Heat Pump and duct sealing
Take advantage of our free annual refresher webinars this month on Heat Pump and Duct Sealing! Both classes will include information on commonly failed items, as well as recent program updates. These live, online classes are strongly encouraged as a resource for PTCS Certified Techs to keep up-to-date, but are not required to participate in the program. Continuing Education credits are available.
Please click the links below to register for the classes.
• Heat Pump on Thursday, April 21, 2022, from 8 – 9 a.m. PDT - (Register Here)
• Duct sealing on Thursday, April 28, 2022, from 8 – 9 a.m. PDT (Register Here)
PTCS Train-the-Trainer session We are also offering our annual Train-the-Trainer right after the Duct Sealing training on April 28. The live webinar is a resource for keeping PTCS-certified trainers up-to-date on the program. Webinar participation is not required but is strongly encouraged.
Please click on the link below to register.
• Train-the-Trainer, April 28, 2022: April 28 from 9 – 11 a.m. PDT (Register Here)
If you have any questions, contact the PTCS Call Center at 1.800.941.3867 or resHVAC@bpa.gov.
PTCS Redesign Launching April 1, 2022 (posted March 31, 2022)
We are launching the PTCS Redesign on April 1, 2022. This announcement contains important PTCS website and document links.
We have worked to redesign and simplify PTCS to make it easier for certified PTCS technicians and utilities. We have made changes to:
- PTCS specifications
- Installation forms
- PTCS Registry inputs
- Participation requirements/training
- Quality assurance and
- Informational / marketing material
A PTCS Contractor-focused webinar was held on March 24, 2022 to inform you about these changes. The webinar recording is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm64Ptob6JQ.
All the updated specifications, installation forms, and program information is immediately available on the new bpa.gov HVAC Homepage at this link BPA HVAC Essentials – once on the webpage, just scroll down to bottom of page to see the following menu for “PTCS Essentials.” Click the “+” links to reveal PTCS documents.
This same information will be available in the coming weeks on the PTCS Online Site Registry at ptcs.bpa.gov.
Here is a brief listing of the PTCS Redesign changes.
Simplified Air Source Heat Pump Specifications and Updated Forms and Training
- New alternatives are available to traditional airflow testing, including app-driven Digital Trueflow Plate and the new ESP-CFM Manufacturer Lookup Tables
- Removed compressor lockout requirement
- Testing no longer required for inverter-driven variable speed heat pump systems. Airflow and refrigerant charge will only need to be confirmed to meet manufacture requirements
The new Air Source Heat Pump Optional Data Collection Tool (i.e. the install form) is also available at ptcs.bpa.gov
We are offering new remote QA inspections for PTCS Air Source Heat Pumps – and have found contractors support them – please request them.
A new feature - Offline Entry of PTCS project data will be released and available in April/May 2022 – please stay tuned.
New training resources are also available:
- On-demand training videos for managers, technicians and admin staff at Virtual PTCS School (clearesult.moodle.school) and on YouTube
- A training video for the new Offline data entry feature will be available in April/May – please stay tuned for more information.
Simplified Ground Source Heat Pump Specifications and Documentation
- Specifications were combined into one document and simplified by removing outdated requirements and to align with PTCS Air Source Heat Pump requirements
- Data collection form was simplified, reducing it from over three pages to under two pages.
The new Ground Source Heat Pump Data Collection Tool (i.e. GSHP form) is also available at ptcs.bpa.gov
Reminder: Please check with your utilities for specific testing and paperwork documentation requirements before starting projects, as some utilities may have reduced required paperwork to simplify the PTCS program .
More training coming soon: We will send out PTCS Announcements via email and also via the PTCS Registry Home Page at ptcs.bpa.gov (just scroll down Home Page to see Announcements) concerning upcoming PTCS annual refresher/continuing education webinars to be held in 2022.
Email us at resHVAC@bpa.gov with questions on these updates or requests for further trainings.
Commissioning Variable Speed Air Source Heat Pumps and Entering Information in PTCS Registry (Posted March 4, 2022)
Commissioning inverter-driven variable speed air source heat pumps (VSHPs) has proven to be a challenge for the PTCS program and this is impacting data entry in the PTCS online site Registry. After much study, our PTCS team identified certain reasons why VSHPs cannot be set up to meet PTCS airflow and refrigerant check specifications:
- The PTCS specification was designed for single-speed and single-stage air source heat pumps only, and not VSHPs.
o Requiring VSHPs to meet PTCS single-speed testing requirements does not guarantee an increase in energy efficiency.
- VSHPs can have complex control algorithms and automatic set ups that determine proper compressor speed and airflow, so overriding them to perform a commissioning test may be discouraged by manufacturers.
o The information obtained at these override settings does not tell us about the potential efficiency under “normal” operating conditions.
o If the system does not meet PTCS requirements in test mode, then system settings may need to be adjusted, which may not benefit the long term functioning of the unit.
- Many mini-split heat pumps only have a test port on the vapor side, making the sub-cooling calculation not possible during cooling season.
This issue is being addressed in the PTCS Redesign/Simplification set to launch April 1, 2022. In the interim, when a variable speed unit is installed and the airflow and refrigerant charge are confirmed to meet “manufacturer specifications”, those systems will be deemed to meet the PTCS specifications. When entering these VSHP projects into the Registry, contractors can click on “Save Progress” instead of “Finish” and then contact the PTCS Contact Center for project review and approval at ResHVAC@bpa.gov or 1.800.941.3867.
PTCS Document Links Update (posted March 4, 2022)
The document links in the PTCS Registry go to forms stored at BPA.gov. On March 1, 2022 BPA.gov moved to a new platform. This has resulted in links taking users to the BPA Residential homepage where users have to navigate several screens to find the correct form. This should only be a temporary situation, as we are working to update the links so they take the user directly to the forms. In the interim, if you are having trouble finding the document you need, please reach out to the PTCS Program at ResHVAC@bpa.gov or 1-800-941-3867 and we will send you the information requested.
PTCS Simplification Webinar coming March 24, 2022 (posted February 22, 2022)
PTCS Announcement and Contractor Webinar
Starting April 1, the redesigned Performance Tested Comfort Systems (PTCS) program will make it simpler and easier for contractors to become certified and provide customers with high quality HVAC installations.
- Your local utility program may include additional requirements. Please check first before starting work.
NEW PROGRAM FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
• Offline data entry lets you record PTCS Registry data onsite from your phone or computer, even without cell or internet service.
• Fewer required forms.
• Simplified Air Source Heat Pump specs, including:
– New alternatives to traditional airflow testing, including use of the app-driven Digital TrueFlow plate, or use of equipment manufacturer ESP-CFM lookup tables (no TrueFlow plate required!).
– No more compressor lockout requirement.
– Some testing will no longer be required for VSHP systems, airflow and refrigerant charge will only need to be confirmed to meet manufacturer requirements.
• Remote QA inspections allow for real-time QC, avoidance of return visits and easier data entry.
• Convenient on-demand training videos for trainers, managers, techs and admin staff at Virtual PTCS School.
If you are a new PTCS heat pump technician, simply notify the program before you test your first 3 system installs and a QA specialist will assist you. Visit PTCS.bpa.gov to start your certification today.
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LEARN MORE AT THE UPCOMING PTCS CONTRACTOR WEBINAR - How Your PTCS Practices Will Change on April 1, 2022
Webinar date: March 24, 2022, 11 a.m. – Noon
1 NATE CEH (Continuing Education Hour) credit is available for attending the webinar on March 24. Send your request for NATE credit to resHVAC@bpa.gov c/o Mark Jerome.
Registration is not required. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/883071269
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073
United States: +1 (646) 749-3129
Access Code: 883-071-269
GoingDuctless.com and NW Ductless Heat Pump Project Oriented Installer List (which includes some PTCS certified contractors) moves to ComfortReadyHome.com (posted December 17, 2021)
After more than a decade of working with regional ductless heat pump and PTCS installers, the NW Ductless Heat Pump Project (NWDHPP) is retiring. As part of a planned Project phase-out, GoingDuctless.com, the Project’s Oriented and Master Installer program and Project resources will be discontinued as of April 1.
Transforming the Market Together
The NW Ductless Heat Pump Project—with the commitment of Oriented Installers and Master Installer partners—has helped spur the adoption of ductless heat pumps throughout the Northwest market.
Northwest installers’ commitment to the NWDHPP has been essential to the success of bringing ductless heat pumps to Northwest residents and businesses.
Next Steps
• BPA’s PTCS program for PTCS Air Source Heat Pumps, PTCS Variable Speed Heat Pumps, PTCS Ground Source Heat Pumps, PTCS Commission/Controls/Sizing, and PTCS Duct Sealing and Prescriptive Duct Sealing, is not ending and will not be impacted by any of these changes. You can continue contacting the PTCS program team at resHVAC@bpa.gov or 1.800.941.3867.
This transition is because the NWDHPP is sun-setting and BPA wants installers to have an opportunity to participate in a regional contractor list after the NWDHPP sunsets after April 1, 2022.
To assist in the transition between trade ally programs, Comfort Ready Home will host the list of NW Ductless Heat Pump Project Oriented Installers (which includes some PTCS certified installers) for utilities and consumers to reference beginning April 1, 2022 through April 1, 2023. Your contact information will be transferred to this list and no action is required on your part.
NEEA will continue to engage with residential HVAC market partners on heat pump solutions for all Northwest homes. Installers are encouraged to join their local utility trade ally network, if not already engaged.
• Opt-In to the Comfort Ready Home Contractor Network
Comfort Ready Home, a partnership funded by Northwest utilities and Bonneville Power Administration, supports utility energy efficiency upgrades through the Residential Contractor Network. As a PTCS certified contractor you may currently be listed as a contractor on the NWDHPP installer list and this gives you the opportunity to participate in the Contractor Network. This does not impact your participation in the PTCS program.
o Installers have two options to maintain their visibility with residential customers through ComfortReadyHome.com and their local utility:
1. Enroll in the Comfort Ready Home Contractor Network without having to submit a contractor application. Click here to opt-in by providing your basic contact information. Registration and participation are free and easy.
2. Contact your local utility to learn about any changes to their trade ally network program.
Learn more about Comfort Ready Home’s Residential Contractor Network here or contact info@ComfortReadyHome.com or 888-423-0211. For more information about the NW Ductless Heat Pump Project, contact info@GoingDuctless.com or 503-467-2159.
ALERT – RESOLVED (posted August 6, 2021)
We have resolved the “AHRI not recognized” error that users have experienced the past two weeks when entering data into the Online Registry. We corrected and updated our AHRI lists and re-uploaded to Production. We should be back to normal! Please continue to alert us about any units that don’t link up in the Registry. Contact us at PTCS contact center at 1-800-941-3867 or ResHVAC@bpa.gov. Thank you.
ALERT (posted August 5, 2021)
We received higher than usual number of calls/emails last week about AHRI numbers not recognized by the Online Registry tool. Users entering data encountered this error message: “AHRI not recognized.” We are investigating and finding both “active” and “discontinued” units were inadvertently removed during last month’s AHRI updating to the Registry. We are working to resolve this immediate issue and will keep you posted. To avoid this issue in the future, we are modifying our systems so AHRI numbers are no longer removed. Please continue to alert us about any units that don’t link up in the Registry. Contact us at PTCS contact center at 1-800-941-3867 or ResHVAC@bpa.gov. Thank you.
Registry passwords and Inactive user accounts. Urgent: Password Format Changing - Must reset your password (posted April 16, 2021)
Two upcoming Performance Tested Comfort Systems, or PTCS, Registry updates will improve system access and security. The first update will implement a new password standard and will initially be effective April 23, 2021 when users attempt to create new accounts or modify old passwords. As of May 1, all users will be required to update their password if it does not meet the new standard.
The new password standard requirements:
• A minimum of eight characters
• Include upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
The second update on May 1, will deactivate all User ID’s that have not been active since Dec. 31, 2016, with the exception of any utility-user accounts and accounts with multiple User ID’s. Users who want to reactivate their account(s) should contact the PTCS contact center at 1-800-941-3867
or ResHVAC@bpa.gov.
Upcoming Registry Update (posted April 16, 2021)
A system update of the Performance Tested Comfort Systems, or PTCS, Registry is scheduled for Friday, April 9. The update will improve the Registry’s function and precision for projects with variable speed air source heat pumps, or VSHPs.
Because the Registry was designed to support single-speed and two-stage air source heat pumps, data entry occasionally resulted in “Rejected” projects when the VSHP’s airflow-per-ton did not meet the allowed range in the PTCS specification (325-500 CFM/ton). To address this issue — and the greater adoption of VSHP technology — a new alert will warn the user if the Registry will reject a project due to inadequate airflow. The user can manually edit the tonnage value of the VSHP to align with the manufacturer’s nominal tonnage; however, the project status will flag as “Pending” for a review and follow-up by PTCS staff. The update will also improve the Registry’s identification and rounding of VSHP tonnage values, specifically for 4- and 5-ton VSHPs.
Questions? Contact the PTCS contact center at 1-800-941-3867
or ResHVAC@bpa.gov with questions about VSHPs or the Registry update.
PTCS Newsletter
March 2022 Edition (find this newsletter here)
Read all about how PTCS will change for you on April 1, 2022. Learn about the PTCS Redesign and Contractor Webinars.
Older Editions (find archived editions here under "Newsletters")
Please contact ResHVAC@bpa.gov to request older editions of the newsletter.
Trainings
Don’t see a training listed below that will work for you? Please email the customer service team at ResHVAC@bpa.gov with your name, company, location, type of training, and desired training date(s). They will add you to the training list and contact you when there is an available training near you. If you are seeking training in the near future, please contact a PTCS trainer in your area.
PTCS Air Source Heat Pump
When:
Monday, February 14th from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Click Here to Register
Monday, March 28th from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Click Here to Register
Monday, April 25th from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Click Here to Register
What: Live webinar training with Bruce Manclark will teach HVAC technicians how to commission heat pumps according to PTCS specifications.
How to Register: Please contact Nick Eddy at nick.eddy@clearesult.com
Note: To be a fully certified PTCS heat pump contractor, you must complete a remote classroom and field heat pump training. Schedule the field portion of the heat pump training when you register for the webinar or after completing the webinar.
PTCS Duct Sealing
When:
Tuesday, March 29th and Wednesday, March 30th from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Click Here to Register
What: Live webinar training with Bruce Manclark will teach HVAC technicians how to seal ducts according to PTCS specifications. PTCS and Prescriptive Duct Sealing
How to Register: Please contact Nick Eddy at nick.eddy@clearesult.com
Note: To be a fully certified PTCS duct-sealing contractor, you must complete a remote classroom and field heat pump training. Schedule the field portion of the duct sealing training when you register for the webinar or after completing the webinar.
Reference Materials
Admin/Sales, Heat Pump Sizing, and Prescriptive Duct Sealing training videos now available:
Virtual PTCS School
PTCS Duct Sealing Admin and Training Videos Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3
PTCS Air Source Heat Pump Admin and Sales Training Videos Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3
PTCS Heat Pump Sizing Admin and Sales Training Videos Part 1 | Part 2
Prescriptive Duct Sealing Training Videos* Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5
*Note for technicians: To get certified in Prescriptive Duct Sealing, please visit the Virtual PTCS School.
Not sure if your ducted heat pump is a variable speed unit? Reference the "Ducted Variable Speed Heat Pump Reference List" by clicking here and on the "Technical Support Materials" button above. A Reference Guide for Identifying VSHPs is also available by clicking here.
Need help setting thermostat controls? Reference the Thermostat Support Sheets here and by clicking the “Need Technical Support Materials?” button above.
Air source heat pumps designated as Variable Refrigerant Flow/ Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRF/VRV) no longer qualify for residential air source heat pump measures. Reference the Products Designated VRF/VRV Air Source Heat Pumps for products and refer to the “Indoor Type – Column E” for the system configuration.
Registry Updates
Several updates are live on the PTCS Online Registry. These updates streamline the project entry process and address user concerns. For more details about these improvements, please click here.
Three site details were moved to the measure details screen. The heated square footage and the existing and backup heating system types were relocated to the screen where you enter the measure details to decrease the number of errors and corrections.
Company Administrators are now able to enter projects for multiple technicians at their company. Please contact the PTCS Customer Service team at ResHVAC@bpa.gov or 1.800.941.3867
to ensure you have the appropriate permissions.
Process updated for heat pump AHRI numbers that do not validate.
Users will be able to enter all the remaining measure details and the PTCS Customer Service Team will verify the project. This will save users the extra step of having to submit their project to the PTCS Team for entry.
Users are now able to enter a second duct sealing and heat pump for the same site address. This includes two separate heat pumps and two separate duct sealing projects.
The Owner Address information was removed from the entry screens and reports.
The Compressor Low Ambient Lockout (LAL) question and answers clarified to reduce confusion.
For further information or questions, please contact the PTCS Team at ResHVAC@bpa.gov
Marketing Materials
PTCS offers free marketing materials for contractors and utilities, available in English and Spanish without a username and password. Print and web ready. Check them out here!
The PTCS team recently developed two brochures: Heat Pump Sizing Reference Guide and Lockouts, and Balance Points Reference Guide available here. These materials are great quick references to keep on hand any time you need a reminder of PTCS guidelines related to sizing and lockouts.
Utility customers, please visit the Energy Efficiency Marketing portal for customizable marketing materials. For more information or help with these materials, please contact ResHVAC@bpa.gov.