Preventive Maintenance Agreements Archives

NYC Metro Area’s HVACR Blog

Michael C. Rosone • April 25, 2017

Before you know it, those living in the residential building you manage will be cranking up their air conditioning systems. It goes without saying that you’ll want to start off the warmer weather months in a comfortable zone, which for you and the residents means as complaint-free as possible. A preemptive air conditioning troubleshooting mission and appropriate residential air conditioning maintenance can aid you in your goal of smoothly operating air conditioning systems and happy residents. Let’s take a look at the most common air conditioning problems.

Could You Have an Air Conditioner Allergy?

Michael C. Rosone • April 18, 2017

The warm air hits. You turn on your air conditioning and you find yourself and those around you sneezing. You start to think, I can’t be allergic to the air conditioner, can I? After considering the air conditioner allergy theory, you move onto chalking it up to something more plausible: seasonal allergies. Though you might not be exactly correct with either one of your diagnoses, you could be on the right track.

Your air conditioning system and seasonal allergies may both be playing a role in what you perceive as an air conditioner allergy. It’s not that you are allergic to your air conditioner unit, it’s that you are allergic to the contaminants that are being circulated through it, which could include seasonal allergens and other nasty stuff. Let’s take a look at what is blowing your way and could be the source of your air conditioner allergy.

How to Choose an HVAC Company: Don’t Overlook Reputation

Michael C. Rosone • March 28, 2017

If you currently use an HVAC company you are unhappy with, unfortunately you probably have firsthand knowledge of unacceptable service or a dissatisfaction with your climate control system.

Rest assured, it does not have to be that way. Not all HVAC companies have been created equal and you can choose a company that will provide topnotch service and install quality equipment to match your needs. Let’s look at how to choose an HVAC company that can provide you with the services you deserve.

Buying a High End Air Conditioner? Get White Glove Installation

Michael C. Rosone • March 21, 2017

Whether you prefer old world charm or a modern twist, it took your painstaking decisions to furnish your home in a way that reflects your distinctive taste. Now you need a company that will make the same effort to protect your investment with a premier climate control system.

As a luxury homeowner or a property manager, why would you trust the installation of a high end air conditioner system or maintenance of that system to any company that does not have impeccable credentials and the capability and personnel to provide you with white glove customer service? Rest assured, there are companies nearby that can offer you with white glove customer service when installing a high end air conditioner system.

How to Choose an HVAC Contractor That Shares Your Company Values

Michael C. Rosone • March 7, 2017

Last Updated on

How to choose an HVAC contractor for your business: why is it so hard?

If you’re in charge of your company’s facilities, you’ve certainly had experience dealing with heating and air conditioning contractors. You’ve likely vetted quite a few over the years. Yet, since you’re reading this article, you are probably finding yourself disappointed yet again. You may be wondering why it is such a challenge to find an HVAC service provider that meets your expectations.

The answer is: not every HVAC company is qualified to handle the challenges of commercial spaces, especially large corporate environments and businesses with multiple locations.

Also, you want a company that’s willing to customize its service according to your needs and priorities. Read on to learn about how to choose an HVAC contractor that’s both willing and able to deliver superior service that goes beyond your expectations.

Cleaning Air Ducts Improves Comfort Conditions in Older Buildings

Michael C. Rosone • February 28, 2017

If you’ve got a business located in an older building in an urban location, such as brownstones in New York City, chances are you have heating and air conditioning systems with ducts. And it’s likely that those ducts have been there for a number of years. Especially given the pollution levels in the city, a lot of nasty stuff can build up in those ducts over time: including dust, allergens, chemicals, microorganisms and mold.

If you are experiencing comfort problems in your building, such as odors, inconsistent temperatures, and even allergies and other health issues, cleaning air ducts can make a big difference.

Owner’s Guide to Restaurant HVAC & Refrigeration Service

Michael C. Rosone • January 26, 2017

Like most business owners, you’re probably not an HVAC expert. Yet your restaurant HVAC is a mission critical system that your business can’t operate without. All year round, you depend on your heating and air conditioning system to keep your dining room comfortable for your customers, so they keep returning to your restaurant again and again. Your restaurant HVAC also keeps your kitchen and food prep areas comfortable for employees, which have specialized comfort and ventilation requirements in order to meet health inspection requirements.

The same holds true for your commercial refrigeration equipment. When your walk in freezers, blast chillers, low boy refrigerators and display cases are not working as they should, it’s a big risk to your business. If your food quality suffers, you could lose customers. In the worst case, you could be serving food that puts customers in danger of getting sick if your ingredients are not stored at the proper temperatures. The next thing you know, negative reviews start popping up on social media. And what happens if the health inspector shows up when your commercial refrigeration equipment is acting up?

That’s why we have put together this collection of essential information for the restaurant owner about restaurant HVAC and commercial refrigeration equipment service: it’s everything you need to know at your fingertips. Get the answers to all your questions and concerns here! Plus we’ve added out best advice for restaurant owners, based on everything we have learned from serving the industry for 6 decades.

How To Save Money On Restaurant Refrigeration Equipment

Michael C. Rosone • January 24, 2017

It’s the middle of your dinner rush, with a packed house, and one of your line cooks reaches into a low boy to grab ingredients, only to find everything warm. What do you do? If your first thought is to chuck it and get to the nearest Restaurant Depot to replace it, then you have the wrong instinct. Treating your restaurant refrigeration equipment like disposable items can cost your restaurant a lot of money.

It’s true that heavy repairs can be pricey. So what’s the alternative? Properly maintained restaurant refrigeration equipment won’t need repairs. Best of all, with proper care your fridges and freezers will last much longer and save you the cost of replacing them entirely.

Restaurant Event Planning: 7 Tips for NYC Restaurant Week

Michael C. Rosone • January 10, 2017

With NYC restaurant week coming up, there will be lots of restaurants gearing up to put their best foot forward. How do you stand out in the crowd? Add entertainment to the menu. Restaurant event planning is a big deal for a reason: it draws people into your restaurant and greatly increases the chances of them having a memorable experience. Check out this list of ways to ensure a successful event.

Make Restaurant Comfort a Priority (It is for diners!)

Michael C. Rosone • January 3, 2017

Here’s one fact you probably already know: the success of your restaurant is about much more than the food. Restaurant comfort is a big issue for diners, and a prime reason they will choose to frequent your establishment, or not.

Yet (as you probably realize since you’re reading this blog!) getting restaurant comfort right it not as easy as it seems.

Just think about your own experience. It’s probably something like this: your patrons are constantly complaining about being too hot or too cold, or being bothered by drafts from your AC blowing directly on their food. And making it too loud to carry on a conversation. At the same time, your kitchen is sweltering to the point that people are ready to pass out from the heat. Even worse, you might have kitchen odors migrating to the dining room. That’s not a pleasant experience for your diners, either.

We’ve heard lots of stories like this from the many New York City restaurants we have serviced over the years. Certainly you’ve experienced your staff fiddling with the thermostat in a desperate attempt to improve your restaurant comfort. It’s even worse when you catch your customers doing that!

Read on to learn more about why restaurant comfort is a tricky issue. Then we’ll reveal how the right combination of specialized equipment, HVAC system design and maintenance can improve environmental temperature control and solve your problems once and for all.

Top 15 Holiday Energy Saving Tips for New York City

Michael C. Rosone • December 13, 2016

December is an expensive month, between all the gifts you have to buy, holiday entertaining, and paying the electric bill for your massive lights display. Why not save some money with these holiday energy saving tips?

Not to mention all the harm we’re doing to the environment by wasting electricity and fossil fuels this time of year. Do your part to save the planet by following these simple holiday tips for saving energy.

Holiday Party Planning: 7 Tips to Make It Stress-Free

Michael C. Rosone • December 6, 2016

Holiday party planning can evoke a mixed bag of emotions. You’re probably looking forward to impressing your guests and enjoying a festive occasion. But whether you’re planning an open house for a hundred or an intimate gathering for a few friends or family, chances are you’re stressing over getting everything perfect.

Successful holiday party planning is all about managing the most important aspects of your gathering: the people, the setting, and of course, the food and drink. Today we’re sharing a collection of tips that can help to remove some of the stress from holiday party planning, by helping you avoid common pitfalls in each of these areas.

Holiday Tips for NYC Retail Businesses to Maximize Profit

Michael C. Rosone • December 1, 2016

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The NYC streets are teeming with shoppers and you’re looking forward to your most profitable holiday season yet. Hopefully Black Friday was successful for you and a sign of healthy sales to come over the coming month. But are you doing everything you can to get shoppers into your stores and entice them to spend? And are you doing everything you can to control costs and maximize profit?

Here at Arista, we have worked closely with NYC’s retail business community for decades. Today we are sharing some holiday tips from some of our most successful retail customers about how to maximize profit this holiday season.

NYC Disaster Recovery: Is Your Business Ready for the Next Big Storm?

Michael C. Rosone • October 6, 2016

Here in NYC, disaster recovery is on our minds this time of year

For business owners in the New York City area who lived through Superstorm Sandy, this can be an anxious time of year. Even though hurricane season is technically on the wane, that doesn’t mean we are safe. After all, Sandy struck at the end of October. Many of us are keeping an eye on the forecast and worrying every time a tropical depression forms.

There’s a good reason for that concern. If you’re not prepared, storm damage can severely impact your business, or even put you out of business for good. Unfortunately, worrying won’t protect your business in the event of a major storm. A NYC disaster recovery plan can.

What Is the Ideal Office Temperature?

Michael C. Rosone • August 16, 2016

In space, the “Goldilocks zone” is the area around a sun where the temperature is habitable to life. In the office, differing temperature preferences can feel as far apart as the sun and moon. Today we’re helping you bridge the gap by finding the ideal office temperature to satisfy all your employees. Don’t be deaf to your employees’ complaints, because a comfortable employee is a productive employee.

Here are some strategies you can use to make your office not too cold, not too hot, but just right.

Get to the Bottom of Air Conditioning Noise

Michael C. Rosone • July 19, 2016

We all want our air conditioners to be as unobtrusive as possible, while getting the job done. That’s why if air conditioners get loud, or start making strange sounds, it gets annoying in a hurry.

But not all air conditioning noise is equal. Some sounds indicate more trouble than others. How do you know if it’s a quick fix, something a service tech needs to take care of, or something you could just drown out by donning headphones and blasting your tunes?

Take a look at the types of air conditioning noise you’re likely to hear, and what it means about your HVAC.

AC Troubleshooting: Refrigerant Leak

Michael C. Rosone • July 28, 2016

If you’ve got an older air conditioning system (and you’re reading this article!) chances are you’re familiar with what happens when you’ve got a refrigerant leak.

You begin to notice that your AC is not cooling very well, even though the fans are blowing and the air flow seems fine. Over time, days or even weeks, the problem gradually gets worse, even though the system is running more than usual. Finally, you put your hand up to the register and you feel warm air blowing out. That’s a classic sign of a refrigerant leak. Not again!

Read on to learn about what causes a refrigerant leak to happen, how to get it fixed right, and options for making sure it doesn’t happen again.

AC Leaking Water? What to Do Next

Michael C. Rosone • July 14, 2016

Isn’t it funny how the presence of water can cause such a variety of reactions in different contexts? On a hot July day, water seems cool and inviting when it’s in your backyard pool. It may even be a welcome relief when it’s falling from the sky. But when you find a puddle of water on the floor of your mechanical room, it’s a scary sight and a source of anxiety. Your AC is leaking water. Now what?

First of all, take a breath and relax. There are a number of possible causes for an AC leaking water, and many of them are not difficult or expensive to fix.

However, it’s important to act quickly, because leaking water can cause expensive damage to your walls, ceilings, floors and furnishings. And there is one possible cause of AC leaking water that can cause your air conditioner’s compressor to fail. When that happens, you might find yourself having to replace your unit.

Top 5 Causes of Frozen AC Coils

Michael C. Rosone • July 12, 2016

With longer days and July heat, summer is finally kicking into high gear. It can make even the most hard-working of us want to sit directly under the AC and wait for Disney to make a sequel to Frozen already. While imagining you’re in Arendelle might help you cool off, if your AC suddenly seems to have Elsa’s frosty powers, it could spell trouble for your HVAC system.

Unlike other HVAC malfunctions, frozen AC coils can be caused by failures in almost any part of the system. If you see frost or a layer of ice on your indoor unit, it’s obvious that this is the problem. But indoor units are not always accessible. To prevent this from happening to your AC, you need to know what else to look for.

8 Ways To Avoid Air Conditioning Compressor Failure

Michael C. Rosone • July 7, 2016

These days, you can’t turn around (or walk past a newsstand) without getting bombarded with tips for staying healthy. It makes sense: getting sick is unpleasant so many people go to great lengths to avoid everything from the common cold to heart disease.

Unfortunately, people don’t tend to maintain their AC the same way they maintain their health. If it’s still keeping you cool, it’s fine, right? That’s not always the case. Even with normal usage, an air conditioner can develop problems as well as accumulate wear and tear that can lead to problems down the road.

Just like taking care of your body keeps you healthy, taking proper care of your AC means it’s much less likely to break down. That’s why it’s so important to take the steps outlined here to prevent AC compressor failure.

5 Facts You Need to Know About Air Filters for Allergies

Michael C. Rosone • June 16, 2016

Flowers are blooming, the grass is green and lush, and trees are bursting with new leaves… Don’t you just love this time of year?

Not so much if you have allergies.

When the pollen count is out of control, all you want to do is hide in an air conditioned room until fall. Unfortunately, that probably won’t help.

You might think your air conditioning system will filter out all those nasty allergens from the air, but without the right air filters for allergies, you’ll still be sniffling and sneezing your way through the season.

And it’s not just pollen you need to worry about! The summer heat and humidity make the conditions ripe for the growth of mold and mildew, which can also bring on allergy symptoms.

Learn the facts about choosing the right air filters for allergies, as well as other HVAC maintenance tips that can reduce your suffering this season.

Cleaning Your AC Coil Impacts Comfort Air Quality & More

Michael C. Rosone • June 2, 2016

Reliable air conditioning is something we tend to take for granted… until all of a sudden it’s not reliable anymore.

It’s tempting to hope that you can start up your AC for the summer and everything works perfectly. But if you want that to happen, you need to take steps to make sure your air conditioner is ready for the hot summer days ahead. That includes cleaning the AC coil.

Read on to learn more about this important component of your air conditioner, why it’s so vulnerable, and how cleaning it can have a huge impact on your summer comfort, your energy bills, and even the quality of the air you breathe.

5 Reasons Your Home May Need Indoor Air Quality Testing

Michael C. Rosone • June 7, 2016

Which do you find more scary: something right before your eyes, or something you can’t actually see but looms large in your imagination?

The spider on the ceiling? Or the monster under the bed?

For most of us, it’s what we can’t see that’s truly frightening.

When it comes to the quality of the air in your home, those fears about what’s lurking unseen can be justified. There are quite a number of invisible dangers that you risk with every breath you take.

Things that Go Bump in the Night: Is Your Furnace Making Noises?

Michael C. Rosone • October 30, 2014

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It’s that time of year again when you see skeletons and witches inhabiting every lawn and peering out of every window. So when you have a furnace making noises with all sorts of unsettling sounds, you can’t help but wonder if a poltergeist got in there.

Before you call in the ghost busters, here are some of the common problems that may be making your heating system go bump in the night (and all day long). Luckily, most of them are not that scary.Read more

Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

How to Cover an Air Conditioner for Winter to Prevent Damage

Michael Rosone • November 10, 2015

Last Updated on

As the winter approaches, you may be wondering if your outdoor air conditioning unit needs protection from the elements. The answer is, yes it does! Falling leaves as well as snow and ice can get into the condensing unit and cause damage. So how should you cover an air conditioner for winter? First we’ll tell you why it needs protection, and then we’ll get to how to cover an air conditioner for winter safely so that you don’t make matters worse.

Love Your Radiant Floor Heating? Don’t Neglect Maintenance

Michael C. Rosone • December 2, 2014

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Did you know that radiant floor heat is one of the oldest forms of climate control? Ancient Eskimos filled stone trenches under their dwellings with hot smoke to warm the space. The Greeks and Romans used hypocausts, basically furnaces pumping hot air into floor and wall space, to warm their public buildings and bath houses. Different forms of radiant floor heating have been used for millennia.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Facilities Managers: 10 Air Conditioner Basics You Must Know

Michael C. Rosone • May 19, 2016

With all the problems on your plate on a given day, it can be tough to find the time to give much attention to your air conditioning system. Yet when your AC breaks down, it can impact every aspect of your operation.

That’s why facilities and operations staff need to understand a few air conditioner basics that help keep everything running smoothly.

Even though a Facilities Manager needs to be a jack-of-all-trades, HVAC may not be your area of expertise. So here’s a guide to the most important air conditioner basics you need to know: the top causes of AC problems, and what you can do to prevent them.

Poor Air Flow From Your AC? Check for Duct Problems

Michael C. Rosone • May 26, 2016

It’s so easy to take air for granted. You can’t see it, and mostly you don’t think about the fact that you’re breathing it all day. But people notice in a hurry when there’s not enough of it. That’s why stuffy air in an office is so difficult to put up with.

When air conditioning problems lead to insufficient air flow in your workplace, you’ll notice people taking every opportunity to get out of there. Going outside for air, taking long lunches… maybe you’ve done it yourself. If so, it’s time to get to the root of the problem before lagging productivity begins to impact your bottom line.

8 Preventable Causes of AC Compressor Failure

Michael C. Rosone • April 21, 2015

Last Updated on

There are any number of issues that can cause your air conditioner to stop working. Luckily, they’re not all expensive fixes. The problem could be just a loose wire that’s caused a power failure in your air conditioner. Or you could have a clogged air filter that’s impeding the air flow to the system.

On the other hand, when AC compressor failure causes your system to breakdown, you have a major AC emergency service problem and a big expense on your hands. The compressor is a vital and expensive component, and when it goes you may find yourself dropping a lot of cash on a new AC unit.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

7 Commercial HVAC Maintenance Tips for Multi-Location Businesses

Michael Rosone • March 22, 2016

Does Your Commercial HVAC Maintenance Vendor Provide Value for Your Business?

Procuring commercial HVAC maintenance services for a multiple-location business is different than sourcing those same services for a single location. Especially when you’re managing upwards of 20 or 30 locations, your needs go above and beyond just a vendor who’s technically competent and shows up on time for appointments. To get the most value from your commercial HVAC maintenance vendor, you need a company that acts as your business partner: saving you time and money and helping you to make better decisions.

AC Maintenance: The Cure For Springtime Allergies?

Michael Rosone • March 15, 2016

Is Poor Indoor Air Quality Causing Your Allergy Symptoms?

Most of us tend to think of allergies as caused primarily by pollen and pet dander. So why are people still suffering who live and work in the city, where pollen-producing plants and furry critters are in much shorter supply than in the suburbs?

The answer for many is poor indoor air quality.

HVAC Duct Cleaning: Do You Need It or Not?

Michael Rosone • January 14, 2016

Is HVAC duct cleaning right for your home? Many homeowners question whether it needs to be done, how often to do it, and how to find the right company to perform the job. Some HVAC service providers also try to convince homeowners that it’s important to seal ducts and apply chemical biocides and treatments to kill bacteria and mold. True or false?

Homeowners are overwhelmed and perplexed about which HVAC services are necessary and which aren’t. Many customers have asked us if there are any guidelines or recommendations to follow, and fortunately, there are. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued guidelines and information that we’re going to share in order to help you make an educated decision about whether HVAC duct cleaning and other services are right for your home. We’ll also provide advice about how to choose a service provider should you decide you want these services performed.

It’s a Wonderful Life: Your HVAC Service Tech is a Guardian Angel

Michael Rosone • December 31, 2015

Attention facility managers and business owners:
Let’s see a show of hands: are you responsible for maintenance and operations of a business facility? Have you watched “It’s a Wonderful Life” this holiday season? Then this post is for you: here are some lessons about the importance of HVAC maintenance and your HVAC service tech that you can learn from this classic holiday film.

SPOILER ALERT: This article gives away details about the plot of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” but we’re betting you’ve seen it half a dozen times anyway!

3 Tricks to Getting Fast Restaurant Emergency Refrigerator Repair

Michael Rosone • December 17, 2015

When you are in the food service business, your refrigeration equipment is your lifeline. You depend on those blast chillers and display cases and low-boy refrigerators and walk-in freezers to keep your ingredients and your product both fresh and safe to consume. The problem is, when any one of those units breaks down, you have a serious problem on your hands.

If you’ve been in the restaurant business for a while, you’ve probably experienced the panic that sets in when you unexpectedly need emergency refrigerator repair. And it always seems to happen during your busiest time! You may find yourself throwing away thousands of dollars in wasted product and losing significant business in a very short period of time. Not to mention the repair bill, which can often cost you double if it happens at night or a weekend.

So when that happens (and it eventually will), you need to know that you can get fast emergency refrigerator repair when you need it. You may already know from experience that you’re unlikely to get fast service if you cold-call just any emergency refrigerator repair company you come across on the Internet.

So how can you find a company you can count on to fix your emergency refrigerator repair problems before your profits melt away like the ice cream in your broken freezer? Read on for three little-known strategies.

5 Reasons You Need Humidification In Your Luxury Residence

Michael Rosone • November 19, 2015

Last Updated on

The Benefits of Humidification For Your Home and Family

Chances are, you pay pretty close attention to the air temperature in your home. After all, when the temperature varies even by a few degrees, you’ll notice the change quickly since you’ve become accustomed to living with a set air temperature. Like when your spouse or kids decide to change your thermostat setting.

Humidification, on the other hand, is an important yet often-overlooked aspect of your home’s comfort. You’ll certainly notice when the humidity reaches the 80 percent mark on those steamy summer days, yet you may not be aware of the detrimental effects of insufficient humidification (translation: dry air) during the winter season when the furnace is running. If your home does not have a humidification system, you’ve probably noticed some of the symptoms, even if you didn’t realize the cause.

Property Managers: HVAC Preventive Maintenance Plans Prevent Headaches

Michael Rosone • November 5, 2015

You may be wondering what we mean when we say that HVAC preventive maintenance plans prevent headaches. Is that metaphorical headaches in the form of HVAC problems, or literal pounding pain in your head? In this case, the answer is BOTH.

When you are a property manager, stress is a way of life. You have so many problems and complaints to deal with on a daily basis, that it’s no surprise when the metaphorical headaches lead to the real kind. So if you’re reading this blog because you want to solve HVAC problems OR because you want to stop taking ibuprophen every day, learning about HVAC preventive maintenance plans can help.

7 Ways to Get Fast AC Repair After a Storm Takes You Down

Michael C. Rosone • September 22, 2015

Last Updated on

Make sure you’ll get fast AC repair after a storm

Have you been through it before? After a major storm blows through and takes out everything in its path, including your air conditioning system, you just want fast AC repair to get back to normal as quickly as possible.

But then you face major delays as you wait for someone to come assess the damage to your system, order the parts and/or equipment needed to get you back up and running, and finally make the repairs. If lots of other homes and businesses have experienced storm damage, you could easily be waiting weeks or even longer to get your cooling system back.

So what can you do to make sure you’ll get fast AC repair the next time around? First, and most importantly, don’t wait for next time to think about it.

Repair or Replace Your Ailing AC Unit: 6 Critical Factors to Consider

Michael C. Rosone • June 6, 2014

Last Updated on

It’s an age old question: how can you tell when a piece of equipment has outlived its useful life? Can you get your older unit to last another couple of years by fixing it, or will you have to continue putting money into it? Newer units are more energy efficient and can lower your electric bill, but what about the upfront cost?

One reason this is such a commonly asked question is that there is no cut and dried answer. There are many factors to consider when making this decision. You’re probably aware that some service providers will try to sell you a new system when your old one just needs a simple repair. Other providers that make their money on repeat service calls may encourage you to keep fixing a unit that’s become a money pit. So how can you decide? Consider the following:Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC, Residential Installations

5 Common HVAC Installation Mistakes and How They Cost You

Michael C. Rosone • December 4, 2014

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If you’re in the market for new HVAC equipment, you’re probably doing a lot of research into the type of equipment that’s best for your needs, as well as the brands that are highly rated. Did you know that it’s just as important to do your due diligence in choosing the right installer? Use this HVAC troubleshooting guide to help you understand possible issues.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

AC Leaking Water: Air Conditioner Problems & Troubleshooting Tips

Michael C. Rosone • August 28, 2014

Last Updated on

Air Conditioner Problems Raining on Your Parade?

Leaking Just when you were having a good month with no major disasters, and you were actually optimistic about getting ahead of expenses, your maintenance guy comes in to tell you that there’s a puddle of water around your indoor air conditioning unit. Now you’ve got that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach in anticipation of an expensive repair bill.

Don’t panic! It may look bad, but in many cases, your air conditioner problems–even water leaks are not an expensive fix, if you’ve caught it quickly.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Avoid Air Conditioning Repair: NYC Techs Talk Compressor Failure

Michael C. Rosone • August 26, 2014

Last Updated on

Compressor Failure Could Mean Serious Air Conditioning Repair in NYC

When a service tech inspects your broken air conditioner, the very LAST thing you want to hear him or her say is, “Sorry, the compressor has failed.” It’s often a death sentence for an air conditioning unit since it’s such a costly part to replace. If your warranty has expired and the cost to replace a compressor exceeds a third of the cost of a new unit, you may be facing the purchase of a new air conditioner. Either way, it’s going to cost you a bundle.

The surprising fact is that as many as 80 percent of compressor failures could be prevented if the problems leading to the failure were corrected in a timely manner. These problems can be detected and eliminated during regular preventative maintenance and help you avoid costly air conditioning repair in NYC.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

4 Steps for Storm Readiness: NYC HVAC Prep for Hurricane Season

Michael C. Rosone • September 9, 2014

Last Updated on

Whether they call it a superstorm, a tropical storm, or a hurricane, these devastating weather events can cause catastrophic damage, as those of us who lived through Superstorm Sandy know all too well. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted 8-13 named storms, 3-6 hurricanes and 1-2 major hurricanes for the 2014 season, so now is the time to get prepared.

We all know the drill to protect our homes and families when an impending storm threatens: stock up on water and non-perishable food, get out the flashlights and weather radio, buy lots of batteries, bring in your lawn chairs and board up the windows. But did you know that you should also be taking precautions to protect your NYC HVAC system?

Making the time now to take a few precautionary actions, and knowing what to do when a storm strikes, can make the difference between sailing through the storm with no damage and having to shell out thousands for new HVAC equipment.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Summer in the City and Air Conditioning Problems

Michael C. Rosone • July 8, 2014

Last Updated on

Is Your Retail Business a Comfort Zone?

Ah, summer in New York City! Temperatures are soaring, humidity is rising and people on the NYC streets are seeking relief from the oppressive heat. Will they find it in your retail store or restaurant? Comfort is an important factor in where people choose to shop or dine. If your establishment is too hot or too cold, you may be driving away customers in droves.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Fall Furnace Maintenance Tips: Are Carbon Monoxide Detectors Enough?

Michael C. Rosone • October 14, 2014

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It’s no secret that carbon monoxide is deadly. We’ve all heard the horror stories that result from people unknowingly breathing in the colorless, odorless gas. As a responsible business owner or manager, you have carbon monoxide detectors installed in your building, and you probably think that protects you from the danger.

Not entirely.

It’s true that carbon monoxide detectors will most likely protect you from the deadliest outcome: people in your building becoming sick or even dying from exposure to the poisonous gas. But have you considered the consequences of having a scare in your building when those detectors go off? The following fall furnace maintenance tips will help you stay safe in the event of your detectors go off, and take preventative action to ensure they never do.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Fall Furnace Maintenance: 3 Reasons to Clean Your Furnace

Michael C. Rosone • November 4, 2014

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Chances are you’ve seen articles and advertisements telling you to get your HVAC system cleaned and maintained at least once or twice a year (it should be apart of any fall furnace maintenance routine). You may be wondering why it’s so important. After all, your equipment seems to keep working, right?

That may be the case for now, but you’re setting yourself up for a host of trouble later on (not to mention much bigger expenses) by skipping this easy and affordable task.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

HVAC Repair: 3 Scenarios Where You Might Pay Twice.

Michael C. Rosone • September 5, 2014

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When should you pay twice for HVAC Repair in NYC?

You know the drill: something breaks and you call in someone to fix it. The HVAC repair guy tells you what’s wrong, and charges you a lot of money. At first, everything seems to be working again. You breathe a sigh of relief and forget about it. Then lo and behold, it breaks down again a short time later.

We’ve all been through it, which doesn’t make it any less frustrating, not to mention expensive. Unfortunately, it happens all too often with air conditioning systems. The question is, should you have to pay each time the tech comes out and works on your system, even when he doesn’t fix the problem?

It’s a tough question, and the answer depends on the circumstances. Here are a few scenarios related to refrigerant leaks, one of the most common causes of a/c malfunctions, to guide you if you find yourself in this sticky situation.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Broken Air Conditioning? 3 Steps to Avoid Being Taken to the Cleaners

Michael C. Rosone • September 26, 2014

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Take Control of Your Broken Air Conditioning Unit.

As a business owner or manager, you wear a lot of hats. But it’s going a bit too far when you’re expected to understand the technical mumbo-jumbo about what’s wrong with your broken air conditioning unit and make a decision to replace it on the spot. Do you trust this service provider and their diagnosis? Is this problem really a death sentence for your equipment? Can you buy a little time to figure out your options?

Just say no, or at least say “not so fast.” Any service provider that insists you need to purchase new equipment without offering an adequate explanation – or one that’s understandable to someone who’s not an HVAC expert – should raise a red flag. You should never rush into making an expensive equipment purchase, because it’s easy to make the wrong choice and spend more money than you need to.

Here’s how to proceed when you find yourself in this situation:Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

4 Consequences of Fall Furnace Maintenance Neglect

Michael C. Rosone • October 9, 2014

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At this time of year, you’ve probably seen and heard the recommendations about having your furnace cleaned and maintained before the start of the cold weather. What’s all this fuss about fall furnace maintenance, anyway? Your building’s furnace is tucked away in a boiler room out of sight. No one has to look at it, so why should you care if it’s dirty as long as it’s doing the job?

Here’s what you may not realize. All that buildup of dirt and grime, as well as the fact that your furnace is not being regularly inspected for impending problems, is endangering the health of your building’s occupants, not to mention your wallet.

Here are four serious risks you face when you neglect fall furnace maintenance:Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

3 Reasons Changing Your Furnace Air Filter Could Change Your Life

Michael C. Rosone • October 22, 2014

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This time of year, you’ve got so much on your mind: navigating the daily traffic gridlocks with so many bigwigs in town, picking out your Halloween costume for the office party, and of course, keeping up with the baseball playoff standings.

Who has the time to think about air filters? And what’s the big deal anyway? How could a little thing like a furnace air filter really make a difference in how your furnace works this winter?

It makes a huge difference, actually, and it takes less time than choosing your picks for the football pool.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Heating Maintenance: Checklist for Gas and Oil Furnaces

Michael C. Rosone • October 28, 2014

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If you haven’t already done so, you’re probably thinking it’s time to turn on the heat in your building. Not so fast! Have you done your fall furnace maintenance? If you want to keep your building occupants healthy and safe, as well as warm, it’s in your best interest to take care of this task before starting up your furnace for the first time. November is almost upon us! The leaves are dropping off the trees, the holiday ads have already begun, and you’re toying with the idea of breaking out the winter coat. It’s going to get chilly, especially after we change the clocks and lose another hour of daylight.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

Furnace Not Working? 6 Things to Check.

Michael C. Rosone • November 6, 2014

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Have you been putting off turning on the heat in your building, hoping to avoid the high utility bills for as long as possible? When you’re finally forced to turn it on because it’s so cold there’s frost on the windows and you can see your breath inside, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise.

It’s dead. No heat. Now what?Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Furnace Troubleshooting: 8 Signs Your Furnace Needs Maintenance

Michael C. Rosone • December 16, 2014

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As a business owner, this time of year you’re probably running around like Santa Claus on Christmas Eve trying to get everything done. The last thing you want to worry about is the condition of your heating system. But in those rare moments when you sit still for a moment, you may be experiencing nagging doubts that your old furnace is going to make it through the winter without an expensive and inconvenient breakdown.

Take a glance through the list below. Have you noticed any of these symptoms? If you have, you’re probably worried that your furnace or boiler is about to go down for the count. Taking the “wait and see” approach makes it likely that you won’t like what you see (especially on your invoice) when that breakdown happens.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

3 Steps for Buying a New Air Conditioner (The Right Way).

Michael C. Rosone • February 24, 2015

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Did your air conditioner give you trouble all last summer? You were probably relieved when the hot weather was over, so you could stop worrying about your unreliable unit breaking down again at the worst possible time, and shelling out your hard-earned cash time and time again to fix it. Even though it’s hard to imagine with a foot of snow on the ground, it won’t be all that long before those hot days are back.

You probably don’t want to think about buying a new air conditioner just now. If you’re smart, though, this is exactly the right time to make a decision about your air conditioner. If you think it may be time to throw in the towel and buy a new air conditioner, now is the time to research your options and get the best price on a new unit that’s right for your needs.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

4 Things You Better Be Getting With Your HVAC Maintenance Contract.

Michael C. Rosone • January 27, 2015

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Every smart business person is trying to cut costs. When it’s time to think about renewing your annual HVAC preventive maintenance contract, you may be tempted to go with the lowest priced option. It can seem expensive, and you may not fully understand what you’re getting for your money. Why should you pay more?

But consider yourself warned: going with the lowest bidder frequently costs much more in the long run! That’s especially true if you don’t think through what’s included in the HVAC maintenance contract and your relationship with the service provider. So how can you evaluate the value you’re getting for the HVAC maintenance cost? Consider the following:Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

AC Troubleshooting: FROZEN HVAC System? Don’t “Let it Go!”

Michael C. Rosone • August 21, 2014

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AC Troubleshooting: Why Your Air Conditioner Freezes Up and What to Do About it.

If you have children, or you’re alive on the planet, you’ve seen/heard of/know all the words to all the songs to Disney’s Frozen. In the movie “Anna, a fearless optimist, sets off on an epic journey – teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven – to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter” (so says IMDB). Yea, it’s a real nail-biter.

While you may not have a loyal reindeer, you may indeed be facing an epic journey of your own when the icy powers of your air conditioner cause an eternal winter of your evaporator coils. (Eh, come on…go with it. It was only a matter of time before a witty HVAC company took advantage of the comparison).Read more

Commercial HVAC, Commercial Installations, Preventive Maintenance Agreements, Residential HVAC

A Guide to the Top 3 Power Related Air Conditioner Problems

Michael C. Rosone • August 14, 2014

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Troubleshooting Your Air Conditioner: Problems with Power

It’s incredibly frustrating when your air conditioner experiences power-related issues because you often don’t know who to call, the electrician or the air conditioning service guy. Since you’re probably not an expert in wiring and electricity, the danger of high voltage is enough (as it should be!) to keep you from trying to figure it out on your own. Here’s a quick guide to the top 3 power issues you could be experiencing, and what to do if it happens to you.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Troubleshooting HVAC: Contractors in NYC Can Help You Catch Stray Energy

Michael C. Rosone • August 12, 2014

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Have you heard the term “stray energy”? It refers to all the energy that’s wasted in your building due to incorrect settings and equipment not operating under optimum conditions. Some examples include:

Someone adjusts a thermostat for a specific event and then forgets to reset it afterwards.
Broken sensors that cause fans or pumps to run when not needed.
Undetected problems with automated building management software that cause systems to run incorrectly, such as at night.

Air Conditioning Problems: Repair or Redesign a Noisy AC Unit?

Michael C. Rosone • July 31, 2014

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Is Your Noisy Air Conditioning Unit Broken or Poorly Designed? Know the Signs.

Do you feel like that rattling or humming sound coming from your air conditioner is beginning to rattle your brain? It’s not just you. Everyone in the building has noticed: your employees, your customers, and your boss. If you’re in charge of the air conditioning system, they’ll have your head before too long if you don’t do something about it.

It’s no secret: everyone hates annoying background noise. The problem is, the noise is more than just annoying. The acoustical environment affects more than our nerves. Loud background noise drives away customers in a restaurant, decreases productivity in an office and even impacts the learning environment in a school.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

HVAC Troubleshooting Tips for Healthcare Facility Managers

Michael C. Rosone • July 22, 2014

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When you are managing a healthcare facility, people’s lives are in your hands. As a result, you face a great deal of risk on a daily basis. With so much to worry about, your HVAC system may be one thing that’s out of sight and out of mind. But the consequences of a poorly-performing air conditioning system (or worse, a system failure) are much more serious than just discomfort.

The health of your HVAC system has a major impact not only on the temperature, but on the overall air quality in your facility. For hospitals, nursing homes, ambulatory care centers and other healthcare facilities, temperature fluctuations and air quality issues can make the difference between life and death for at-risk or elderly patients.Read more

Commercial HVAC, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

A Guide to Getting an HVAC Maintenance Agreement for the Newbie

Michael C. Rosone • July 10, 2014

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Who Me? Find an HVAC Service Provider?

If you work for a smaller operation, chances are you wear a lot of different hats. Even if you were hired to do a specific job, periodically you’re probably asked to take on a responsibility that is outside your comfort zone. When you know nothing about the task in question or even where to start, it can be overwhelming to say the least.

If you’ve been asked to get a quote for an HVAC service contract, and you wouldn’t know a condenser coil from a HEPA filter, read on for some information about how to get started and what to expect from the best service providers.Read more

Commercial Kitchen, Commercial Refrigeration, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Display Case Breakdown: Avoid Costly Commercial Refrigeration Repair

Michael C. Rosone • June 19, 2014

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Cold Case: Display Case Gone Bad

For owners of New York City convenience stores, delicatessens, coffee shops and bakeries your refrigerated display cases are the lifeblood of your business. You’ve probably gone to a great deal of time and expense to choose the best commercial refrigeration equipment for your needs, and design a space that showcases your products in the most attractive and convenient way. And of course, you count on that equipment to work reliably 24 hours a day to keep items fresh for your customers.

If a display case breaks down, and you need commercial refrigeration repair, it’s a major headache and a major expense. You may be forced to throw out a lot of expensive product, not to mention the lost business while the unit is down. Then you have to fix or replace the unit in a hurry. Of course it will happen at the most convenient time, on a Sunday or a holiday when the service rates are at a premium. You may even have a health and safety issue if customers consumed food that was not kept at the proper temperature.Read more

Commercial Kitchen, Commercial Refrigeration, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

Blast Chillers 101: How to Avoid Commercial Refrigeration Repair

Michael C. Rosone • June 17, 2014

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‘Just Me and My Blast Chiller’

If you run just about any type of food service operation, your blast chiller is your best buddy…or at least one of your most critical pieces of commercial refrigeration equipment. It increases the productivity of your kitchen by allowing you to make larger batches and produce more product during slow periods. It reduces waste since you no longer need to throw out leftovers every day. Most importantly, it preserves the flavor, aroma, color, texture, and nutrients in your food, improving the quality of what you serve. Use of blast chillers can even reduce your legal liability by ensuring that your food is handled in compliance with food safety regulations.

The best part is, your blast chiller asks for very little in return. These units are very reliable and can easily last 15 to 20 years. All you need to do is some simple cleaning and maintenance. What more could you ask from one piece of equipment?Read more

Commercial Kitchen, Commercial Refrigeration, Preventive Maintenance Agreements

The Restaurant Owner’s Guide to Commercial Refrigeration Maintenance

Michael C. Rosone • June 10, 2014

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New York City’s Restaurant Week is fast approaching. Each year New Yorkers and tourists flood the city’s restaurants for a chance to taste what might normally be beyond their budget or their pallette. If you’re a restaurant owner that could mean a huge boon for business. But if your refrigeration equipment fails, all those bang-for-your-buck meals won’t mean much. So, in advance of restaurant week, we’ll be posting great tips and resources on how to keep your equipment (and your head) cool!

As a restaurant owner, your refrigeration equipment is both your best friend and your worst nightmare. Without your coolers, chillers and freezers, you’d be serving lukewarm drinks, wilted salads and melted ice cream. Let’s face it, without them you wouldn’t be in business at all. And that’s exactly the problem: when they break down, your business quickly comes to a screeching halt.Read more