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

April 24, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

Gary McCreadie and Eric Ruggles discuss the differences between airflow and static pressure in HVAC systems and their impact on system efficiency.

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…

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Host: Gary McCreadie

Guest: Eric Ruggles

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Organizations: Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc., YELLOW JACKET

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