Glycol

Term from Heating industry explained for recruiters

Glycol is a special type of liquid used in heating and cooling systems, especially in areas where temperatures can drop below freezing. It works like antifreeze in a car but for buildings. When someone mentions glycol in their resume, they're usually talking about working with commercial heating systems, particularly in maintaining or installing systems that need protection from freezing. You might see it referred to as "antifreeze" or "heat transfer fluid." It's an important part of many building heating systems, especially in colder climates.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained commercial heating systems using Glycol and Anti-Freeze solutions

Installed Glycol-based heating systems in cold storage facilities

Performed regular maintenance and testing of Glycol levels in industrial cooling systems

Typical job title: "HVAC Technicians"

Also try searching for:

HVAC Technician Building Maintenance Engineer Facilities Technician Heating System Specialist Commercial HVAC Engineer Building Systems Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you design a glycol system for a large commercial building?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain how they consider factors like building size, local climate, required concentration of glycol, and safety measures. They should mention system sizing, pump selection, and maintenance planning.

Q: What are the key safety considerations when working with glycol systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss proper handling procedures, safety equipment, environmental regulations, and emergency response protocols. Should also mention proper disposal methods and system testing procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you test glycol concentration in a system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain using a refractometer or glycol test kit, what readings mean, and how to adjust concentration levels if needed.

Q: What are the signs that glycol needs to be replaced in a system?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking for rust, testing pH levels, looking for debris in the fluid, and regular maintenance schedules.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between propylene glycol and ethylene glycol?

Expected Answer: Should know that propylene glycol is safer for use where there might be human contact, while ethylene glycol is more toxic but more efficient.

Q: Why do we use glycol in heating systems?

Expected Answer: Should explain that glycol prevents freezing in cold weather and helps transfer heat effectively throughout the system.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic glycol system maintenance
  • Safety procedures and handling
  • Simple concentration testing
  • Basic system checks

Mid (2-5 years)

  • System troubleshooting
  • Glycol replacement procedures
  • Advanced testing methods
  • System optimization

Senior (5+ years)

  • System design and installation
  • Emergency repairs
  • Team supervision
  • Project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of safety procedures when handling glycol
  • Unfamiliarity with basic testing equipment
  • Lack of understanding about freezing points and concentrations
  • No experience with commercial heating systems