NYC Metro Area’s HVACR Blog

Commercial HVAC, COVID and Indoor Air Quality, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Summer Humidity Is Scarier Than You Think

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on September 24, 2020

woman feeling effects of summer humidity

HVAC humidity control is critical in summer

This time of year, it feels like summer humidity is the enemy:

  • The minute you go outside, all your clothes are stuck to your body.
  • Summer humidity and hair just don’t get along.
  • In this weather, anything that gets wet stays that way.
  • Right after you get out of the shower, you feel like you need another one.
  • Crowded elevators and subways… well, you get the idea.

Plus, there are much scarier facts you should know about summer humidity and how it can affect your health. Luckily there are easy solutions for HVAC humidity control.

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Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

How to Fix That Noisy Air Conditioner That’s Driving You Crazy

Employee frustrated by hvac noise from air conditioner

Do you remember the episode of Mad Men where Ginsberg is literally driven insane by the constant, brain-numbing racket of the computer? If you’re working in an office with a noisy air conditioner, you may be concerned that you, or someone sitting near you, is headed for a similar fate.

If you’ve been stuck working at home due to the pandemic, dealing with an HVAC noise problem can be even more frustrating. You probably don’t have an office maintenance guy to complain to, or anywhere to go to escape from the distracting racket coming from your air conditioner.

Before that noisy air conditioner leads to a meltdown, it’s time to take control of the situation and find out how to quiet your noisy air conditioner for good.

First things first: you need to get to the bottom of the source of the noisy air conditioner.

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Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Mold in Air Ducts? How It Got There & How To Get Rid of It

mold in air ducts

Noticing signs of mold in your air ducts?

ODORS. An unusual or musty odor is often the first sign of mold in air ducts or in air vents. In many cases, you’ll smell it before you can see it. If you notice a musty or moldy smell that goes away when you are not using your air conditioning or heating (if they share ducts), that can narrow the cause down to mold in your HVAC system.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Air Conditioning Replacement: 6 Things to Consider

air conditioning replacement installation

Thinking about an air conditioning replacement this summer? Don’t make the mistake of automatically getting a newer version of the air conditioning system you have now. Especially for a commercial air conditioning system, it’s important to consider how your conditions and needs have changed. And other factors that can save you money and ensure long-term satisfaction with your new system.

Read more 
Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Improve Air Conditioning: Avoid These 5 Ductwork Design Mistakes

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Last Updated on March 4, 2020

HVAC technician implementing ductwork design plans

Renovating your commercial space and looking to improve your air conditioning in the process? When the work is done, do you want comfortable, consistent temperatures in your space? How about good air quality? Energy efficiency? If you do, then it pays to plan updates to your HVAC system and its ductwork design early in the renovation process to avoid mistakes.

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Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Do Ceiling Fans Save Energy?

man installing ceiling fan to save energy

Ceiling fans use much less energy to run than air conditioners, so it would seem like a simple conclusion that ceiling fans save energy. But in most parts of the country, fans don’t provide enough cooling to replace air conditioners. So the question is really: do ceiling fans save energy when used with air conditioning? And that’s more complicated.

Read on to find out if you can use ceiling fans to help improve your energy efficiency and keep you cooler.

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Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

HVAC Safety Tips: Don’t Let Carbon Monoxide Sneak Up On You

HVAC and carbon monoxide safety tips

A carbon monoxide leak can mean disaster for your business

You already know that carbon monoxide is deadly—you’ve certainly heard the horror stories that result from people unknowingly breathing in the colorless, odorless gas. So as a responsible business owner or manager, you don’t take those kind of risks lightly. That’s why you have carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your space, right?

Read more 
Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Commercial HVAC Repair: How to Spend Less & Get More

system being maintained by a commercial HVAC repair tech

Commercial HVAC repair expenses can take a big bite out of your profits. You might think there’s little you can do to prevent those costly breakdowns from happening.

The fact is, there is something you can do to reduce what you spend on HVAC repairs: regular maintenance. The cost of maintenance is a small investment that reduces your HVAC repair expenses.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Residential HVAC, Residential Installations

How Long Should an Air Conditioner Last?

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Last Updated on January 17, 2020

how long should an air conditioner last

With the hottest temperatures of the year staring us down, the last thing we need is a meltdown over an air conditioner breakdown. Home and business owners and facility and property managers across the NYC metropolitan area are keeping their fingers crossed that mature air conditioning systems make it through the summer. This tenuous situation can’t help beg the question, “How long should an air conditioner last?”

HVAC experts say an air conditioner should last about 15 to 20 years under normal conditions. However, many factors can reduce that life, including poor installation, operating conditions, system sizing, and neglected maintenance.

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Commercial HVAC, Commercial Refrigeration

New HVAC refrigerants: Could CO2 Replace R-22?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on January 17, 2020

Technician adding HVAC refrigerants to air conditioning unit

If you’ve been following our HVAC blog articles, you probably notice that they’re usually very practical. We offer guidance about issues that are on your mind and provide information that’s immediately helpful. Once in a while, though, we like to talk about something just because we think it’s interesting and enlightening. This blog about new HVAC refrigerants is one of those posts. We hope you’ll find it interesting and enlightening, too!

The true story behind HVAC refrigerants

Refrigeration was originally invented because we wanted to make our food last longer and prevent waste from spoilage. We learned that keeping it cool accomplished that goal. Isn’t it ironic that the chemical HVAC refrigerants we developed to chill our food (as well as cool our living and working spaces) are some of the worst contributors to the greenhouse effect and global warming? That’s right: as we chill our food to preserve it, we’re heating up our planet and destroying it.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations

R22 Phased Out: The Timeline & Facts You Need to Know

r22 phased out

If you are a facilities manager who has responsibility for older air conditioning systems, chances are you are alarmed by the news that R22 has been phased out. Does this mean you’ll need to replace a lot of expensive equipment? You’re probably also wondering about the R22 phase out schedule and how quickly you need to act.

In this article we’ll discuss the timeline for the R22 phase out to help you understand the urgency of the situation. Then we’ll discuss the options for facilities with R22 air conditioning equipment and some tips for making the best decision for your company.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Residential HVAC, Residential Installations

When Does R22 Become Unavailable? Help For AC Equipment Owners

when does r22 become illegalHave you been limping along with your older R22 air conditioner? Hoping to avoid replacing it during the high season? Especially if you know your unit has a refrigerant leak, you may be trying to decide how long you can get by before you’ll have to invest in a new system. An important factor in making that decision is answering the question: when is R22 no longer available?

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

The Secret to Getting Your Commercial HVAC Upgrades Approved

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Last Updated on January 15, 2020

hvac upgrades

As a facilities manager, you know proper facility management is sometimes a thankless job. That fact is never more apparent than when you’re trying to get HVAC upgrades approved.

A case in point: you devote significant attention to ensuring the building you manage is cool and comfortable in the summer and pleasantly warm in the winter. The trouble is, accolades seldom go out when the indoor climate is pleasant. Yet you’d hear about it quickly if your building was inundated with excessive heat and humidity because your HVAC system went on the blink.Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC Questions to Ask a Service Provider (and Answers You Should Hear)

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on January 15, 2020

hvac questions

Do you trust your contractor to honestly answer your HVAC questions?

When you’re considering hiring a new HVAC service provider to install a new unit, do preventative maintenance, or fix broken equipment, we know you have questions. Over the years, we have figured out the HVAC questions people are thinking but feel uncomfortable asking. That may be because you don’t think you’ll get an truthful answer from a provider who just wants to sell you services.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Why is my AC making a loud noise?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on January 15, 2020

noisy air conditioner

Is your noisy air conditioner about to break down?

The cool air provided by your air conditioning system gives you welcome relief from the heat, but the noise coming from your air conditioner is quite another story. A noisy air conditioner that’s always been loud might not necessarily have a problem. However, if you’re hearing an unusual air conditioner noise like banging, buzzing, whistling, screeching or rattling, it can be a symptom of a system that’s struggling and headed for a breakdown.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

How Will the R22 Refrigerant Phase Out Impact Your Commercial AC?

r-22 refrigerant phase out | freon phase out

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have mandated phasing out refrigerants that have been commonly used for air conditioning and commercial refrigeration equipment for many years. As of January 2020, R22 (also known as Freon), the standard HVAC refrigerant for decades, is illegal to manufacture or import to the US. As a result, supply is dwindling & prices have risen dramatically. How will the R22 refrigerant phase out impact your air conditioning or refrigeration equipment and the cost to maintain it?

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

HVAC Equipment & Safety Risk: Counterfeit Refrigerant

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Last Updated on January 15, 2020

counterfeit refrigerant

If your business has older HVAC equipment that’s been repaired recently, hopefully you used a trusted HVAC supplier. Many types of air conditioning repairs require adding refrigerant to the system. If your repair company bought refrigerant from the wrong source, you might have counterfeit refrigerant in your system that can be dangerous for occupants of your space.

There have been reports of fires and explosions caused by counterfeit refrigerant. Find out how to keep your business safe and your air conditioning system damage-free.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs of an AC Refrigerant Leak

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on January 15, 2020

ac refrigerant leak

Even though we may enjoy warm late summer days, most of us don’t want that heat creeping into our air conditioned living or work space. Are you are concerned because your place is not cooling off like it should? Perhaps you’ve noticed warm air or lower than normal airflow coming out of your system’s registers or you’ve heard a hissing sound. Maybe you’ve observed water on the floor by your HVAC unit or seen ice forming on your evaporator coils. These are all telltale signs of an AC refrigerant leak.

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Commercial HVAC, Commercial Refrigeration

It’s Not Easy Going Green: PlaNYC and Doing Your Part to Save Energy

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Last Updated on December 27, 2019

All New Yorkers face impacts from climate change

According to the New York City Panel on Climate Change (NPCC), New York City faces significant risks from climate change by the 2050’s. Mean average temperatures will rise by as much as 6.5 degrees, annual precipitation will increase up to 15 percent, and sea levels will rise by as much as 31 inches. Noticeable increases will occur within the coming decade. These are some of the impacts New Yorkers will see as a result of climate change:Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

The High Cost of Poor Workplace Temperature Control

woman affected by cold workplace temperature

According to IFMA research, an uncomfortable workplace temperature is the number one complaint of office workers about their workplace environment. Actually, it’s both number one and number two (people complain most about being too hot AND about being too cold).

This complaint is really not surprising when you consider that 40% of office buildings–especially here in New York City–have HVAC systems that are somewhere between 16 and 30 years old. During that time, building tenants have changed, usage of the space has changed, more employees are packed into the same amount of space, and there’s a lot more heat-generating technology in place. So many of these systems were never designed for the current conditions.

It’s important to realize that workplace temperature impacts more than your employees’ comfort. Here’s what you’re risking when you have HVAC equipment that’s failing to properly control the temperature in your workplace.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Poor Commercial HVAC Service? Tips for Making a Switch

Questionable commercial HVAC service from technician working on ceiling vent for an HVAC system

There’s no reason to settle for bad commercial HVAC service

Business owners and facilities managers sometimes struggle with concerns about their commercial HVAC service contracts — and the people behind the contract. But because of other pressing concerns or simple inertia, they live with what they’ve got rather than exploring other alternatives.

Settling for the devil you know might seem easier, but in fact it’s costlier and riskier for your business and your career. If you are a business owner, uncomfortable conditions can drive away customers and make your employees less productive, both of which eat into your profits. If you are a facilities manager, climate control is ultimately your responsibility. If your HVAC vendor is failing to do the job, and that failure hurts the business, you could find your job on the line.

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Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Residential HVAC, Residential Installations

Repair or Replace An Air Conditioner? The Right Way to Decide

HVAC tech inspecting HVAC unit to help decide if property owner should repair or replace their air conditioner

Why repair or replace an air conditioner this fall?

If you’ve got an aging air conditioner, you may be breathing a sigh of relief when Labor Day rolls around. You made it through another summer with the old unit! But don’t talk too soon. You could still experience a breakdown during a brutal week of Indian summer. Then you’ll need to decide whether to repair or replace the air conditioner.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations

What Is an HVAC Package Unit? AC & Heat in One System

HVAC package unit located on the roof of a commercial building

As air conditioning season winds down here in the New York City area, thoughts turn to upcoming heating requirements and the inevitable question: Is my heating system ready to do its job?

If preventive maintenance is part of your HVAC provider relationship — and it should be — your system has probably already been inspected and serviced in anticipation of the colder weather to come.

If you’re thinking about upgrading or replacing your system, you might want to consider an HVAC package unit — offering a combination heating and cooling system that is flexible, space saving, and energy efficient.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

12 Reasons Your AC Is Not Cooling Your NYC Business

AC is not cooling

It’s frustrating when your AC is not cooling your business effectively. Especially when it’s an issue that happens intermittently or has developed slowly over time. Complaints from your employees are increasing, and you may be worried about losing business.

The tricky part is, there are many issues that can result in your air conditioner not cooling enough. Your equipment might need repair or replacement. Or maybe something in your environment that’s changed and your system is not broken at all.

Read on to learn more about the common problems you should know about, so you can take the appropriate action.

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Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

What New Yorkers Need to Know About Legionnaires Disease in NYC

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Last Updated on September 9, 2019

The outbreak of Legionnaires’ Disease in NYC has raised many questions

While it’s a relief to know that the recent outbreak of Legionnaires’ Disease in NYC is over, many New Yorkers still have lingering questions and concerns about Legionnaire’s Disease in NYC as well as the new legislation recently passed in the city to prevent further outbreaks. Even though the outbreak is officially over, those of us who live and work in NYC will be dealing with the ramifications for quite some time.

Everyone is talking about this issue, and you may be unsure about whether you can trust what you’re reading and hearing about Legionnaires’ Disease in NYC. So we have put together a list of what those of us who live and work in NYC need to know, and where to get reliable and accurate information.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

What are you really getting with your HVAC maintenance program?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on September 4, 2019

HVAC maintenance program

It’s undeniable that unpleasant events can serve as a learning experience. And if you ever had your HVAC system break down in the dog days of summer, you were probably kicking yourself for neglecting to sign up for an HVAC maintenance program. Now that you have survived that uncomfortable situation and have purchased an HVAC maintenance plan, do you really know what services are covered under your HVAC preventative maintenance program?Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

What Causes Condensation on an AC Vent?

condensation on AC vent

If you’ve noticed condensation on an AC vent (air conditioner vents “sweating”) or worse, an AC vent leaking water, you’re right to be concerned and start investigating what might be going on. If you let it go, you could end up with property damage along with a potential air conditioner repair bill.

Let’s go over how moisture can get on your AC vent, and the potential damage it can do. Then we’ll explain the possible causes. It’s important to check them out, because the water on your AC vent might be condensation, but it also might be coming from your ducts or your air conditioner itself.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

HVAC Service Contract Pricing Guide

hvac service contract pricing

If you’re in the market for an HVAC service contract, you have probably encountered a wide range of prices. And since you’re probably not an HVAC expert, it can be a challenge to compare options and figure out what’s included, if the AC maintenance plan is worth the money, and ultimately which one is right for you.

Here’s a heating & air conditioning price guide to help you understand the different types of HVAC service contracts and the variables that factor into HVAC service pricing. Armed with this information, you can figure out which options are important to you and be better equipped to choose the heating & air conditioning maintenance agreement with the right price for the coverage you want.

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Commercial HVAC

Benefits of HVAC Maintenance: Better Profits for Your Business

benefits of hvac maintenance

This discussion about the benefits of HVAC maintenance is an update to one of our most popular and helpful blog posts. Here’s the original: Poor HVAC Maintenance Means Poor Profits. That’s the Bottom Line

Are you monitoring HVAC expenses?

As a business owner, monitoring hard costs is a vital part of maintaining your livelihood. You’re constantly keeping an eye on expenses like payroll, rent or mortgage, and let’s not forget energy costs. Your HVAC system is one of the most expensive and integral parts of your business infrastructure. Do you know what is it costing you? And, more importantly, how can you minimize HVAC expenses? That’s the purpose of regularly servicing your equipment. Let’s take a closer look at the costs of HVAC problems and the benefits of HVAC maintenance.

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Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Commercial HVAC Contractors: 7 Signs You’re Getting Poor Service

commercial HVAC contractors

Evaluating the work of commercial HVAC contractors is not always easy for business owners and facility managers. When you experience frequent and recurring HVAC issues, how do you know if the problem is faulty equipment or an unqualified or careless service provider? If you’re not an HVAC expert, how can you tell?

Since you’re reading this, chances are you suspect you’re not getting great service. If you’re repeatedly experiencing the following signs, it’s likely your equipment is not getting the right care. It may be time to consider a better solution.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC Maintenance in NYC: 10 Questions to Ask Service Providers

hvac maintenance nyc

When you need a qualified and reliable company to handle HVAC maintenance for your NYC business, it can be tricky to pick the right one. The one that can get to you fast in an emergency. The one that will show up when they promise. The one with skilled technicians who will fix things right the first time.

When you’re interviewing potential HVAC maintenance companies in NYC, here are 10 questions to ask. The answers will help you weed out the companies who are likely to disappoint you, and identify the star performers.

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Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Top 7 Causes of Air Conditioner Problems and How to Prevent Them

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on June 20, 2019

 

air conditioner problems

If you’ve ever spent a hot summer in New York City in a home or business plagued with air conditioner problems, it’s certainly an experience you don’t want to repeat. Don’t leave your summer comfort to chance! Learn about the most common causes of air conditioner problems and the easy steps you can take to prevent repair issues.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

10 Ways to Tweak Your HVAC System and Save on Your Energy Bills

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Last Updated on April 30, 2019

Did you know that as much as 50% of your building’s energy consumption is used by your HVAC system? Any day now, the temperatures will start to soar into the 80’s and 90’s, and your electricity bills will rise along with the temperatures. You need to keep your building cool, so how can you save money? The good news is, there are smart ways to help your air conditioning system use less energy.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Top 10 Questions Facility Managers Should Ask NYC HVAC Contractors

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

If you’ve been with your current HVAC vendor for years (even if it was a happy marriage at first) your relationship can unravel to the point where it’s time to move on. When you’re waiting for a repair, are they MIA for hours with no phone call? Do they send untrained technicians who don’t understand your system? Are they negligent about doing preventative maintenance? Do they leave a mess behind?

If you’re experiencing lousy response times and sub-par service from your HVAC vendor, you may be putting off “breaking it off” because it’s such a daunting task to find someone better. How can you tell which of the thousands of HVAC contractors in the New York City area can be counted on to provide great service?Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions about Air Conditioning Systems

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

If you are a facility manager or building owner, chances are you’ve had questions about your air conditioning system. You may hesitate to ask your service technician (whom you’re probably paying by the hour) in the middle of a repair visit. It can be frustrating to try and find straightforward answers when you’re not an expert, so we have put together a handy guide with answers to the most common questions we hear every day.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Does Your HVAC Service Provider Have a Disaster Recovery Plan?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

It seems like every day we wake up to find that another natural disaster or emergency has wreaked havoc on cities, businesses and countless lives. It’s enough to keep a business owner up at night, wondering if your business could survive such a situation. What would you do if it happened to you?

It’s no secret that having a disaster recovery plan can make the difference between getting back up and running after a catastrophe and losing your business permanently. You probably have plans in place for evacuation, communication with employees and customers, power supply and data access. But there is an equally important aspect of emergency planning that many fail to consider: are your service providers prepared for disasters, and will they be able to respond when you need them most?Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Clean HVAC System Condenser Coils = Lower Energy Bills

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

New York City air is rough on air conditioners. Especially on those hot days when your air conditioner needs to work at peak capacity, it’s easy to see the air quality problems in the brown haze that hangs over the city. The high levels of airborne soot and debris cause buildup on the outdoor components of your air conditioning unit, most notably the condenser coil.

Did you know that only 1/100th of an inch of dirt buildup on your air conditioner’s condenser coil reduces its efficiency by 5 percent? Buildup on the coils means your equipment has to work harder to cool your building, and when it works harder, it uses more energy. That means higher energy costs for you. If your air conditioner has not been serviced in a while, the buildup of dirt and debris on the condenser coils could be increasing your electric bill by as much as 20 to 30 percent.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Go Mobile or Go Home: Why Your HVAC Vendor Should Be Using Mobile Technology

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

Does your HVAC service technician show up with a paper work order in hand? Does he continuously have to go out to the truck to call the office for information? When you want to pay with a credit card, does he scribble down the information on a piece of paper?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then you should consider switching to a provider that uses more efficient hand held mobile devices to support the work order process. Devices can include smart phones, tablet computers, and dedicated wireless devices. Use of the latest communication technology is not just easier for the provider, but results in quicker response times, better security and more reliable service for you.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Facility Management, Your Commercial HVAC System and the Most Effective Choice You’ll Make All Week

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

If you could delegate half of your job, which half would it be? If you manage a large enterprise facility, it’s probably the hours you spend on the phone scheduling service calls, ordering parts, and handling stacks of invoices.

Believe it or not, you can delegate this half of your job while also saving your company money and improving the performance and lifespan of your equipment. But how? Hiring someone is out of the question, and unfortunately cloning yourself is not possible quite yet.

This is a job for a facilities management software system.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC System Maintenance: Why Your Mechanical Contractor Can’t Get the Job Done

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

It’s 92 degrees in the shade, and the temperature hovers at a tropical 85 in your building. Your employees are calling in sick and your customers are walking out the door. You’ve put in three calls to your air conditioning service provider, with no response.

This frustrating situation is probably all too familiar if the mechanical contractor that installed your HVAC system is still servicing it. If this is the case, chances are you have experienced these warning signs that your mechanical contractor is providing sub-par service:Read more 

Commercial HVAC

6 Tools Your NYC HVAC Vendor Should Be Using And Why.

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

As a business owner or facilities manager, you’re juggling a wide variety of priorities every day. Even if you are a jack of all trades, you may not be a master of all of them, including your HVAC system. When you need an HVAC service provider, how do you find a vendor you can trust to handle maintenance and emergency repair quickly, efficiently, accurately and with minimal contact?

Going with the company your neighbor uses or the one with the most years in business will not guarantee the results you need. Instead, differentiate the HVAC industry leaders by the tools these companies use to maximize efficiency, ensure accuracy and improve customer service.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Your Hairdresser Has More Licensing Than Your NYC HVAC Vendor

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Last Updated on April 30, 2019

When you walk into a hair salon, it’s reassuring to see the certificate on the wall that guarantees your hairdresser is professionally educated, so you can be confident you won’t be hiding under a hat for the next month.

When it comes to choosing a qualified HVAC service provider for your business, selecting a provider with no professional credentials based solely on price would be like letting your friend’s sister cut your hair–but with more expensive and potentially dangerous consequences.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

10 Myths About Your HVAC System Debunked

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Last Updated on April 30, 2019

Properly running, maintaining and getting the most out of your HVAC system is a top priority of any building manager or owner. And yet, there are a host of misconceptions that can railroad that objective and affect the bottom line.

Just like the tooth-fairy and the alligators in the sewers, the following 10 myths are the source of some serious confusion. Understanding them is the first step to getting the most out of your heating and air conditioning.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Desperately Seeking Service: How To Prepare Your HVAC System for the Next Big Storm

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 30, 2019

In the aftermath of winter storms like Titan and Gemini and Ulysses (insert your own winter storm of mythological name and proportion), commercial business owners and building managers frozen heat pump are feeling the effects in states across the country. In the midst of tending to the obvious frustrations of constant shoveling, keeping roofs clear of weighty snow, more shoveling and ensuring pipes don’t freeze you may have forgotten to check your HVAC system. But that could spell big trouble with temperatures hovering around freezing.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Target Hackers Accessed Info Through HVAC Vendor: How to Vet Your Provider and Stay Safe

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 29, 2019

We recently posted a series of articles on the impact of an HVAC System to your bottom line, including the importance of a comfortable temperature for customer retention. Not long ago, in an attempt to maintain the kind of comfort that encourages folks to stay in stores on frigid winter days, Target authorized its HVAC vendor to monitor temperature, troubleshoot system issues and chances are, if you own a computer, or a television, or a radio, or a newspaper you know the rest of the story.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

4 Reasons Why the Average Office Temperature Could Cost You Your Job.

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 29, 2019

How regularly do you consider your physical work environment? The way it affects your sense of personal satisfaction? Work ethic? Productivity?

Let’s try it. Stop whatever you’re doing (except reading this post, of course). What is the very first thing you notice? Is it the noise level? The brightness of the fluorescents above your work station?

Well, according to the IFMA, it’s probably the temperature.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations

8 Steps to a Successful HVAC System Redesign: An Infographic

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 29, 2019

According to the International Facility Management Association, temperature is the #1 number one complaint expressed by office workers. So how can you make sure your building temperature is comfortable and worker friendly?

Typically, simple updates to your HVAC system can help solve the problem, but sometimes it takes a redesign to make a world of difference.

Nearly 40% of HVAC systems are between 16-30 years old. Knowing this, it’s easy to see how, if not properly maintained or updated, systems can pose their own sets of problems for workers beyond just heating and cooling variations. A redesign may be much needed.We’ve created this simple infographic to help you quickly get on your way to a stress-free redesign.

Checkout our Infographic: 8 Steps to A Successful HVAC System Redesign

Small changes to your HVAC system are often the key to improving temperature variances. So before considering a redesign, check with your service provider for minor adjustments that can pay big dividends, now and into the future.

Want more tips? Download Improving an Imperfect World: Mitigating Office Temperature Extremes. Don’t waste time and money. Find out how easy it can be take control of your building’s climate!

 

Find out how to win the battle for optimal office temperature

Commercial HVAC

Arista & Gramercy Tavern: An HVAC Love Story

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

If you’ve been reading our blog, you’ve probably noticed we try not to talk too much about ourselves. Generally, we prefer to be a resource rather than a bullhorn. But in honor of Valentine’s Day we thought we’d get a little personal, heat things up a bit.

Ok, ok. We know what you’re thinking: this business isn’t particularly sexy, certainly not romantic. You’re right. Hugh Grant has never made a movie about HVAC. E.L. James didn’t write 50 Degrees of Grey. and in fact, we know we’ve done the job right when no one notices us at all.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Feeling the Heat: Keeping Your HVAC System Up to Par for Worker Productivity

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

As a facilities manager or building owner, you’ve probably heard your share of complaints regarding office temperature. Not only does a less-than-ideal temperature aggravate employees, but it’s also directly linked to lower productivity — contributing to a lack of focus that can interrupt workflow.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

HVAC System Maintenance: 10 Steps to Maintaining the Perfect Temperature

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Trying to manage the issue of temperature variance? That’s not surprising — according to the International Facility Management Association, complaints about temperature control and extremes are the #1 grievance expressed by office workers. Thankfully, there may be a simple solution for building managers and facility owners.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Are Temperature Extremes Causing a Hostile Work Environment? Get Your HVAC System Checked!

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

According to recent studies, comfortable indoor temperatures have a direct affect on the health and productivity of a building’s employees, tenants or customers. In fact, the right environment can improve workforce output and enhance customer experience directly resulting in savings for your business, property or tenants. It may surprise you how simple fixes to your HVAC system can help to better meet the comfort needs of the tenants, workers or customers in your building. And chances are, it won’t break your budget.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

The Three ‘E’s of a Commercial HVAC Maintenance Agreement

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Responsible building managers and business owners are constantly trying to find cost effective ways to operate while still providing top notch services to their property’s occupants. Because the price tag of an ongoing service agreement with a heating and air conditioning contract seems high, many believe that bringing this type of equipment maintenance and repair in house is a more suitable arrangement. However, the cost of HVAC service agreements is not so expensive when you look at the benefits of having a professional available when you need one.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC

5 HVAC Maintenance Troubleshooting Tips that Could Save You Money

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

As a building owner or property manager, you know that an HVAC equipment failure can result in significant backlash from the people who rely on you to maintain a comfortable environment. With your reputation and bottom line at stake, it’s wise to monitor these systems closely for maintenance and repair needs. This quick checklist is designed to help you avoid costly repairs and shut-downs by staying on top of your equipment’s most critical components.

  1. The major mechanical components of your heating and refrigeration system need to be examined at regular intervals. Check the boilers, as the combustion air should be operating at a rate of one square inch free area for every 2,000 BTUs. The cooling tower should be free of any slime or algae, so you need to address fluid leaks or debris. If you see any mold growth, make sure your biocide treatment is working properly.
  2. Inspect your air handling unit as well, especially the outdoor air intake. You should check the area around the module to see if there are any sources of contaminants that can flow through to the interior of the building. Have a look at the fan, including the blade and motor condition. If you see areas of deterioration, replace these parts as necessary.
  3. Your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist should include checking your HVAC distribution system. It’s important that air flow throughout the building is unobstructed, from the supply air to the return ventilation. Review any drain pans to ensure there are no leaks or indication of mold growth. You’ll need to replace or clean air filters as well. It might be helpful to keep a maintenance calendar so you’ll know when new filters were installed and when they need to be replaced.
  4. Thermostat controls are also important to your HVAC preventative maintenance checklist. In summer and winter, adjust the set points to make sure you’re getting the best efficiency from your heating and air conditioning system. Make notes to indicate the location of each device, as well as the operations it controls. If you’re ever unavailable or off-site, the teams repairing your system will have easy access to this key information.
  5. Outdoor units are susceptible to debris from grime, dirt, tree branches, and bird feathers. Check the space around this HVAC equipment, as there should be about a two foot clearance around the intake area of both heat pumps and A/C units. You should check these outdoor components more frequently than other parts of your system, even as often as once a week. Also, make sure to do a walk through after heavy storms, as debris falling during heavy winds can get stuck near the air intake.

This checklist should help empower you to ask smart, relevant questions and hold your service provider accountable for what’s in your preventative maintenance agreement. Don’t have a maintenance agreement? Remember that while much of this troubleshooting can be done on your own, ultimately repairs and maintenance should only be done by your HVAC vendor as most manufacturer warranties won’t cover equipment that serviced by anyone other than a licensed HVAC technician.

To find out more about the value of a preventative maintenance agreement, download a free copy of our guide to understanding HVAC service agreements, HVAC Preventative Maintenance Contracts: How to Find the Right One for Your Infrastructure.

 

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Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Lacking Confidence in Your Current HVAC Service Contract? Consider an Independent System & Maintenance Review

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

How confident are you that your HVAC maintenance provider has your best interest in mind when it comes to caring for your HVAC system?

Do you actually trust them? Or, are you tolerating them because it’s so overwhelming to find a new vendor?
It’s true–if you’re unsure that your current HVAC maintenance provider has your back, the thought of finding a new vendor can seem overwhelming. Sometimes it seems easier to stick with “the devil you know” rather than seek out other options.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into a New HVAC Service Contract

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Are you content with the quality of your HVAC service contract? Terminating a contract is not as difficult as you might think — and can mean the difference between a system that runs smoothly and one that runs poorly due to inattention and sub-par maintenance. Even if you’re feeling hesitant about seeking a new provider, there’s no good reason to stay locked into a bad contract.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

GC vs. HVAC Professional: 4 Things You Should Know About Commercial HVAC Maintenance

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

If you’re like many property managers or building owners in the Tri-State area, you’ve probably got a general commercial contractor that you rely on for service at your property. For most maintenance work, this type of arrangement works perfectly. You can call your contractor for everything from plumbing issues to basic construction repairs. However, when it comes to more complex systems like your HVAC, the importance of an HVAC specialist for your building becomes obvious.There are a few key reasons why you need a specialist for these all-important components:Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

4 Ways to Make Sure Your NYC HVAC Vendor isn’t Taking You For A Ride.

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Most building managers and property owners rely on the expertise of professionals when it comes to maintaining commercial HVAC systems. Considering the sophistication of today’s systems and the ever-growing list of responsibilities associated with being a building manager or owner, it’s only logical to delegate system issues to the certified technicians who have the experience and know-how it takes to address them.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

8 Points That Will Make or Break Your HVAC Maintenance Agreement

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Entering into an agreement to have your HVAC systems maintained by professionals is a wise business decision–no matter what your industry may be. Common knowledge would dictate that when you have reliable experts undertaking repairs and handling preventative, you’re less likely to experience problems that can affect your company’s bottom line. However, as with any important contract, there are a few points to consider regarding HVAC maintenance agreements.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

6 Ways to Build a Great HVAC Service Relationship From the Start

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

If you’ve been reading, you probably already know there are consequences for poor HVAC maintenance.

You know that it could mean costly future repairs or long down times. And, if you’ve downloaded our white paper, Calculating the Hidden Costs of Poor HVAC Maintenance, you may even know that a poorly running HVAC system has a significant effect on your customer retention rate and ultimately your bottom line. (For more information on how your HVAC system could help you positively influence buyer behavior, download the white paper, below.)Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Poor HVAC Maintenance Means Poor Profits.That’s the Bottom Line.

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

As a business owner, monitoring hard costs is a vital part of maintaining your livelihood and the consequences of not accounting for them can be dire. You’re constantly keeping an eye on expenses like payroll, rent or mortgage, and let’s not forget energy costs. Your HVAC system is one of the most expensive and integral parts of your infrastructure, and yet it’s not likely that you’ve even thought about it lately.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Sweating the Small Stuff: HVAC Maintenance Can Help You Get Pumped

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

This year, after all the stuffing had been stuffed, and the tryptophan finally wore off, millions of Americans headed back to the gym. But what would have happened if when they arrived the the place was an icebox, or worse, a sauna?

As the building owner or manager of a health club, you know that members expect high levels of service when they join your facility. Those expectations extend to an environment that facilitates their fitness goals rather than hindering them.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

HVAC System Maintenance in Healthcare Facilities: A Matter of Life & Death?

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

As a building owner or property manager, you may associate HVAC expenses with equipment purchases, monthly energy bills or maintenance and repair expenses. But what about the less visible — but no less expensive — costs to your business due to an out-of-spec system or equipment failure?

For hospitals, nursing homes, ambulatory care centers and other healthcare facilities, temperature fluctuations can mean much more than simply an inconvenience. They could make the difference between life and death for at-risk or elderly patients, the loss of your facility’s professional license, the threat of expensive litigation or even criminal charges.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Surprising Connection Between HVAC Systems & Restaurant Profitability

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Considering how much restaurants invest in creating the ideal dining atmosphere, it’s surprising how few treat heating and cooling equipment maintenance as equally important. It’s not just the mood music or the right lighting that can have an impact on customer behavior. The optimal temperature is a key part of a restaurant’s overall experience — and a positive overall experience is what keeps diners returning for another meal.Read more 

Commercial HVAC

Want More Productive Workers? Check Your HVAC Systems

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Last Updated on April 29, 2019

Did you know that the temperature in an office building could have a profound effect on the efficiency of its workers? As the temperature varies, so does their level of productivity — and it’s your business that may ultimately take a hit. If you oversee the heating and cooling of an office building, there is reason for concern, because a properly maintained and temperature-regulated HVAC system is critical to the success of your tenants.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Kitchen, Commercial Refrigeration

What You Need to Know About F-Gases and HVAC Service

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

In today’s world, it would be very difficult to live without air conditioning and refrigeration, let alone run a business. But the refrigerants these systems use to preserve our food and keep us cool are doing just the opposite to our planet. When leaked into the atmosphere, older refrigerants like freon cause depletion of the ozone layer, and newer refrigerants called F-gases contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

As long as these chemicals stay where they belong, inside your cooling equipment, there is no cause for alarm. The problem comes in when the systems develop slow leaks, or are serviced by technicians who don’t use the right equipment and techniques for working with refrigerants.

As a facilities manager, it’s your job to ensure the safe handling of refrigerants in your building. You could face hefty fines if found to be in violation of the EPA’s Clean Air Act. And as global warming increasingly wreaks havoc on the climate, our grandchildren will pay a much higher price.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations

Refrigerant Safety: Don’t Pay Too High a Price for Staying Cool

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

What Facilities Managers Need to Know About Refrigerant Safety for HVACR Systems

With all the safety risks that are lurking around your building, you may not think of your air conditioning system as dangerous. Yet most air conditioning systems, VRF systems that provide heating as well as cooling, and commercial refrigeration systems rely on refrigerant chemicals that can be deadly if an accident happens.

When you are responsible for building systems and the safety of your building’s occupants, you’d better understand refrigerant safety guidelines to make sure a tragic accident doesn’t happen on your watch.

Here’s what you need to know about refrigerant safety and your HVAC equipment.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Refrigeration, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Why Combine a Refrigeration & Commercial HVAC Service Contract?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

commercial hvac service contract | refrigeration service contract

While combining facility services under one contractor is not always the best approach, some combined services are as a natural fit as a burger and fries. It makes perfect sense to put a commercial HVAC service contract and a refrigeration service contract under the same contractor’s roof and can actually provide for a more efficient operation, reduce your costs and your stress level.

Read more 

All, Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC Coil Cleaning: Better Comfort = More Customers In Your Store

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

 

coil cleaning

It may be hard to believe that coils could be responsible for taking down your commercial HVAC system or making it operate at a low efficiency level. Routine coil cleaning can help your system turn out a peak performance, reduce your energy costs and bolster the comfort level in your store, which will make it an attractive place to shop and work.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Tired of AC Ducts Ruining Your Decor? Get AC Without Ductwork

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

 

ac without ductwork | beautiful air conditioner

Maybe you’re looking to renovate your shop and have a particular style design in mind, but the unsightly HVAC ductwork is crimping your vision for your space. Or maybe you already have designed your boutique and have everything aligned with your distinctive taste, except for those ugly ducts. Believe it or not, you may be able to pluck those ducts from your space and have a beautiful air conditioner system. Imagine this – you can have an AC without ductwork.

Read more 

All, Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Computer Room Air Conditioning: Is Your Equipment at Risk?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

computer room air conditioning

It’s one thing when your air conditioner is not working properly at home, but it’s quite another thing when the air conditioning system is not performing at optimal levels at a business where computers are at the core of the operation. As a facility manager, you know a top-performing computer room air conditioning system is essential to commercial success. So let’s take a look at what can happen if the computer room air conditioning is not functioning at a high level.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

9 Tips to Improve Warehouse Temperature Control & Save Money

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

warehouse temperature control | warehouse temperature

As the owner or operator of a warehouse, you are concerned about warehouse temperature issues and whether warehouse temperature control improvements are warranted. By looking at ways to enhance warehouse temperature control measures, you have taken your first step in providing consistent warehouse temperature comfort and maximizing your dollars spent on energy.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Why is my air conditioner tripping the circuit breaker?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

ac circuit breaker | ac circuit breaker keeps tripping

It’s the last thing you need on a hot summer day: your air conditioner keeps shutting off and the AC circuit breaker keeps tripping. You’re probably wondering what’s going on, and if there’s an easy solution. Do you need to call someone to fix the problem and if so, who should you call? The AC service company or an electrician?

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Why is my AC leaking water inside the house?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

air conditioner leaking water inside

Finding water anywhere it doesn’t belong in your house is a major cause for concern. Not only are you worried about where the leak is coming from (and how much it will cost to fix it!) but you’re also concerned about damage to your home. When it’s your air conditioner leaking water inside, you need to act fast to prevent water damage as well as expensive repair bills.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Why is my air conditioner freezing?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

air conditioner freezing up | ac unit freezing up

You may expect your air conditioner to be cold, but if it’s covered in frost or ice, that’s not a good sign. When your air conditioner is freezing up, it can’t properly cool your space. And worse, if you don’t do something about it quickly, you can end up with water damage in your walls and ceilings as well as an expensive AC repair on your hands.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Why is my AC blowing warm air?

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

ac blowing warm air

It’s incredibly frustrating when you just can’t get cool on a hot day, even though your air conditioning sounds like it’s working (it’s blowing). Is it you or is it really hot in here? You check the thermostat, and in fact the temperature is soaring well above the set temp. When you place your hand over one of the AC registers, you find your AC blowing warm air.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Why is my AC not blowing?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 26, 2019

ac not blowing

The seasonal temperatures are here. You know the air conditioning system has been turned on, yet you’re just not feeling the comfort you would expect. The disappointing lack of cool air coming through the air conditioning vents prompts you to ask yourself, “Why is my AC not blowing?”

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Your R22 Air Conditioner: Repair or Replace Guidelines

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Last Updated on April 26, 2019

r22 air conditioner

This is an update to one of our most popular and helpful blog posts. We’ve added advice for those of you who have an older R22 AC unit that uses the Freon refrigerant which is being phased out. Here’s the original: Repair or Replace An Air Conditioner: The Right Way to Decide.

If you’ve got an aging air conditioner, you may be breathing a sigh of relief when Labor Day rolls around. You made it through another summer with the old unit! But don’t talk too soon, fall can still get steamy in NYC and if your unit is not performing as it should be, you could still experience a breakdown during a brutal week of Indian summer weather. Then you’ll need to decide whether to repair or replace it.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Arista Improves Customer Service with Technology

customer service technology

It is a bit of a cliché, but it’s true: Most of us know the feeling of waiting for the cable repair or installation person to show up.

Not knowing when a service technician is going to arrive can be even more stressful when you’re a building owner or facilities manager who has to answer to frustrated tenants or a boss who is asking for updates.

At Arista, we firmly believe in leveraging technology to improve efficiency for our team and also to enhance communication in customer service.

That’s why we’ve now implemented a customer service technology designed to keep everyone informed when it’s time for an HVAC service or repair visit.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations

What is an RTU HVAC System?

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 8, 2019

RTU HVAC

Considering an RTU HVAC for your business?

If you’re adding or replacing heating and air conditioning equipment in a commercial space, your contractor may recommend an RTU HVAC unit.

What exactly is an RTU? It stands for “roof top unit.” So now you can guess that this type of HVAC equipment lives on the roof. It’s a self-contained unit that provides both heat and air conditioning for certain types of spaces.

Keep reading to learn more about the RTU HVAC system, and find out if it may be a good choice for your commercial space.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Business Owners: 20 Holiday Gift Ideas for Employees

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 8, 2019

Business owners, you know your employees are your #1 asset and a huge part of your business’ success. This is the time of year to let them know you recognize what they contribute to the organization and to you personally. When it comes to holiday gift ideas for employees, think beyond the generic gift card or fruit basket to make them feel truly valued.

Of course, everyone likes cash. But you would probably not be reading this if that was an option! Instead, peruse this list of holiday gift ideas for employees for some creative holiday gifts that are sure to please and send the intended message.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC

Office Temperature and Productivity in the Workplace

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Last Updated on April 8, 2019

temperature and productivity in the workplace

In today’s uber-competitive business climate, companies need employees to be as productive as possible to achieve their goals. That’s why temperature and office productivity is an issue that’s getting more attention as the need for improved worker output increases.

Like many, you are probably trying to find the barriers to productivity, and you may have come across the findings from IFMA about the top complaints from office workers about issues that impact their ability to get work done. Being too hot or too cold rank as the top 2 problems. If you work in an office (especially if you are in charge of facilities), this is probably not news to you! However, you may be wondering, what exactly is the relationship between temperature and productivity in the workplace? And what is the ideal temperature for an office?

Read on to get the answers and insights about how you can improve the temperature and productivity in your workplace.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

How Reputable HVAC Contractors Provide Proof of Service

reputable hvac contractors

Managing everything on your to-do list is hard enough without worrying about if your HVAC contractor is doing the work they promised. That’s why it’s a huge help when you can find a service provider that can provide you with a tangible proof of the work they do. It’s absolutely essential to obtain that concrete proof of service if you’re a facilities manager engaged in a balancing act between multiple locations. The fact is, you don’t have time to personally oversee every HVAC maintenance and repair visit. So without that proof, how can you be sure exactly what was done?

Reputable HVAC contractors will supply you with evidence of the work performed. You should not settle for a contractor not willing or able to back up a job with proof of service. Let’s take a look at some service traits that you should look for when you are trying to find a contractor you can trust.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

10 Fall Maintenance Tasks That Prevent HVAC Repair

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

Avoid HVAC Repair With This Simple Checklist.

It’s hard to believe September is here already! You’re probably busy with back-to-school activities, the start of the football season, and picking out your Halloween costume (it’s never too early!). It’s a good thing we’re here to remind you that air conditioning maintenance needs to be on your fall to-do list.

Your air conditioner has worked hard all summer keeping your building cool. Once you shut down your system for the season, it needs to be cleaned, inspected and properly protected for the long winter ahead. If you skip these important tasks, you’re risking a major HVAC repair headache (not to mention a major expense) when you start up your air conditioner in the spring and find it’s not working.Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Air Conditioning Maintenance Doesn’t Cost. It Pays.

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

 

There’s no question about it, running a business in New York City is expensive. We don’t need to tell you that you’re faced with some of the highest rents and operating expenses in the country. Like any successful business owner in NYC, you do what you can to cut costs.

To save money, you may decide to cancel air conditioning maintenance. If you have fairly new equipment, air conditioning maintenance may seem unimportant.

The simple truth is, air conditioning maintenance is not a cost. That’s because it saves money. Depending on your equipment, the usage of your space and the nature of your business, air conditioning maintenance can save you a startling amount of money.

Here are 6 surprising ways that air conditioning maintenance saves money:Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

HVAC Service Contract vs. Homeowners Warranty

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

Have you recently moved into a new NYC residence? Congratulations! You’ve finally found the perfect home for you, and naturally you want it to stay that way.

Like many new homeowners, you may be thinking about purchasing a homeowners warranty to cover unexpected failures to major home systems like heating and cooling equipment. You may also have received a homeowners warranty as part of your purchase contract. If so, you probably feel like you’ve covered all the bases and you can breathe easy.

Not so fast.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

HVAC Service Contracts: Controlling Time, Quality & Cost

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

HVAC service contracts and the project management triangle

hvac service contracts
If you’re having difficulty comparing widely differing options when evaluating HVAC service contracts, it may be helpful to use the project management triangle as a guide.

Are you familiar with the project management triangle? It’s a model that describes the relationship between three opposing constraints that impact work: time, quality and cost. It means that your choices in one area impact what you get in terms of the others. For example, if you decide you need the lowest price for a commercial HVAC service contract, that choice impacts what you get in terms of quality and/or timeframe.

hvac service contracts: choosing time, quality & cost

The rule of thumb you’ll often hear with regard to time, quality and cost is that you can choose any two, but the contractor controls the third one. When it comes to HVAC service contracts, we find that this rule breaks down: getting the best quality for the lowest cost is not a realistic option, no matter how much time you throw into the equation. However, understanding the relationship between these three constraints for HVAC service contracts is a useful exercise for focusing your priorities and clarifying what you’re getting for your money.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC Service Agreement: 7 Ways to Get a Great Service Relationship

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

HVAC service agreement

 

This is an update to one of our most popular and helpful blog posts. Here’s the original: 6 Ways to Build a Great HVAC Service Relationship From the Start

The consequences of a poor HVAC service agreement

Since you’re reading this, chances are you’ve had a bad experience with an HVAC service provider. You may have learned that getting an HVAC service agreement with the wrong service provider can have costly consequences for your business. For starters, when important steps are skipped or executed poorly, you can experience major breakdowns that could have been prevented. And long downtimes before your system is repaired.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Managing HVAC Maintenance Costs: A Guide for Facilities Managers

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on April 2, 2019

hvac maintenance costs

Are HVAC maintenance costs breaking your facilities budget?

For commercial facilities, your operations and maintenance budget must accommodate both planned and unplanned expenses. When it comes to your HVAC systems, does it seem like the unplanned expenses are getting out of control? That can include emergency repairs and having to replace failed equipment that you thought would last longer.

The good news is, there is a simple and effective way to control those unexpected HVAC maintenance costs: with proactive planning and regular preventative maintenance.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Service Contracts for HVAC: Red Flags & Terms to Watch For

service contracts for hvac

 

Do you tend to feel uneasy about signing a contract? That’s natural when you’re making a commitment to spend money. It can be a bigger source of stress when you don’t understand exactly what you’re getting for your money. That’s often the case when homeowners and business owners purchase an HVAC service contract.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Top 10 Causes of HVAC Airflow Problems

HVAC airflow

Airflow issues are among the most common HVAC problems. If you suspect you have HVAC airflow problems, you’re probably experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Hot and cold spots throughout your space. This is often one of the first signs of HVAC airflow issues.
  • Pressure imbalance. Do you have doors slamming by themselves, strange whistling noises and drafty areas? These are symptoms of air pressure problems caused by poor airflow from HVAC systems.
  • No air coming out, weak air or low airflow from vents in your house or commercial space.The problem could be throughout the space, or you could have one AC vent not blowing air in one room. This is when you begin to realize something is wrong.
  • Your AC system blows warm air. Now you KNOW something is wrong!

If you ignore the problem for too long, the strain on your system can lead to compressor failure. The compressor is like the heart of your air conditioner, and when it goes, there’s a good chance you’ll need a new unit.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Top 10 Causes of Furnace Electrical Problems

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on March 12, 2019

electric furnace problems

Furnace fuse keeps blowing? This guide to electric furnace troubleshooting explains the common causes and fixes.

If you have been experiencing electric furnace problems (specifically the furnace fuse blows when the heat turns on) throughout the holiday season, you might have assumed the problem is those cheap holiday string lights. But when it happens again (even after Santa has left the building along with the spike in your electric bill), you’re probably wondering what to do now.

Read more 

Commercial Air Conditioning, Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Troubleshooting HVAC in NYC Buildings: 9 Tips to Save You Money

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on March 12, 2019

troubleshooting hvac

This is an update to one of our most popular and helpful blog posts. Here’s the original: 5 HVAC Maintenance Troubleshooting Tips That Could Save You Money

As a manager of commercial or residential buildings in NYC, you probably are all too familiar with the stress and aggravation that follows a major HVAC system breakdown. Tenants do not usually take in stride equipment failures that result in an uncomfortable living or working environment.

Read more 

Commercial HVAC, Residential HVAC

Furnace Making Noise? It’s Probably Not a Poltergeist

Last Updated on 

Last Updated on March 12, 2019

It’s downright scary when your furnace is making noise

It’s Halloween again, that spooky time of year when you see ghosts, bats and witches hanging out all around your neighborhood (not to mention miniature superheroes and Disney princesses). So when you have a furnace making noise and producing all sorts of ominous sounds, you can’t help but wonder if a poltergeist is haunting it.

Before you call in the ghost busters, get a grip and realize that your furnace is making noise because something is wrong, and more than likely it’s not an evil spirit.

Here are some clues to the common problems that cause your furnace to be making noise. Luckily, most of them are not that scary.

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