Cz servair 32 page magazine 2017 v 20 final boats cover 11 16

COMFORTZone servairac.com

Complimentary • Issue No. 2

Even Your

A/C

Needs Regular Checkups Servair Supports

MOLD

Habitat for Humanity

It’s Just a ‘Four Letter’ Word...

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

It’s Too Hot To

Regardless of the season or the temperature

Lennox® air conditioners are the most efficient and quietest you can buy. Our best home air conditioners make the distinction with variable speed technology. Having a comfortable home goes way beyond temperature settings. Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Servair will provide you with the personal touch you expect from your HVAC Professional.

PROVIDING PREMIER RESIDENTIAL AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING SERVICE TO SOUTHEAST VOLUSIA COUNTY.

Lose Your Cool. outside, Servair can make your home feel perfectly comfortable.

386.427.1531 SERVAIRAC.COM

Give us a call today to discover for yourself why our customers have continued to call on the name they’ve trusted since 1978!

CAC1818828

IN THIS ISSUE 08

Our Founder The Story of Servair

By Ellyn Santiago

10

Even Your A/C Needs a Regular Check Up

12

Servair Supports Habitat for Humanity

14

Protect Yourself and Your Equipment During and After a Storm

08

By Ellyn Santiago

12

By Nate Freyburger

16

Soon You’ll be Saying... ‘ilove my iComfort’

17

You Can’t Control Summer Temperatures But You Can Control Your Energy Costs!

18

MOLD It’s just a “Four Letter” Word....

By Ellyn Santiago

20

26

20

You Wouldn’t Drink a Glass of this Dirty Water Why Breath Dirty Air?

28

Meet the Team!

22

Is Your A/C Acting Up? Is it Time to Repair or Replace?

29

Understanding Warranties

24

Duct Free Air Conditioners Offer Multiple Benefits

30

Why Should You Invest in an Extended Labor Agreement

26

Grandma Miller’s Crumb Cake

31

Service Agreements

By Lisa Miller

© 2017 DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Comfort Zone™ is a free publication owned by DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. and distributed locally

by Servair Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 856-279-0999.

Produced in whole or in part by CustomDesignMags.com & DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc., 4305 62nd Street East. Bradenton Florida. 34208 We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and or advertisements, nor are we responsible in any way for the products and services advertised or promoted within these pages. For information on this or other printed publications produced by CustomDesignMags.com & DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. Please call our offices at 941-538-7770 or visit us on the web at customdesignmags.com.

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COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

A MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY From the President of Servair, Chris Butt Community Affiliates

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hank you for choosing Comfort Zone magazine and Servair Heating & Air Conditioning. It has been our pleasure and privilege to serve Southeast Florida for 39 years. Nearly 70 percent of our business comes from referrals made by satisfied customers and to them we are truly grateful. We look forward to providing you the same level of exemplary service that has become synonymous with the name Servair.

In this magazine, you will find information on our history and our civic involvement, along with the products and services we provide, as well as great tips for providing a healthy, energy- efficient home.

In light of extended warranties being offered by manufacturers, maintaining your air conditioning equipment is becoming more important than ever. Manufacturers require maintenance by a certified contractor to keep the warranty valid. Therefore, we highly recommend you consider a service or maintenance agreement. Your Servair Technician will be able to assist you in choosing the right plan for you.

At Servair we value honesty, caring, teamwork and service excellence. A recent customer warmed our hearts by saying, “Good work done by courteous people. We trust you!” Our goal is to earn your trust in the same manner: good work done by courteous people.

We consider our customers to be like family so, “Welcome to the Servair family!”

Sincerely,

Chris Butt President of Servair Heating & Air Conditioning

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com CAC1818828

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE

5

THE ORIGINAL LOW-VOLTAGE UV LIGHT KIT!

Blue-Tube UV is the single most popular germicidal UV light product for HVAC systems in the world. Home owners breathe easy knowing that the air their family breathes is protected by this proven technology. Blue-Tube UV is the simple, safe, and effective way to keep your air system clean and improve indoor air quality.

Award-Winning Design Blue-Tube UV features a number of patented innovations from Fresh-Aire UV. The original low-voltage UV light kit for HVAC has been updated to include a magnetic mounting bracket and now has a 110-277 VAC high-voltage power supply option. Choose one or two year lamps.

LIFE E WA RRTAIM NT Y

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com 6

COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

CAC1818828

Stay Comfortable Year Round

An American Legacy High-Efficiency Air-Conditioning Amana® brand central air conditioning systems are designed to be perfect for any home. Even on the hottest days of the year, they can keep a home cool and comfortable. Don’t choose between performance, durability and optimum cooling comfort.

Install an Amana brand air conditioner and get all three.

Servair Heating and Air Conditioning is the new Amana dealer in this area. If you already have an Amana system, please call and set up an annual inspection to keep your warranty in effect and keep your system working at its best.

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com

CAC1818828

OUR FOUNDER The Story of Servair By: Suzi Harkola

I

t’s a long way from Richmond, Indiana to Edgewater, Florida (1088 miles to be exact), and an equally long career jump from Metropolitian Life insurance salesman to owner of a thriving air conditioning and heating company. Along the way, there have been a few bumps and bruises for the business, but the rewards have been many.

Gary and Frieda Butt, along with partner John Eskew, opened Servair in Edgewater in 1978. Eskew left the business in 1980 and is now retired. Gary, a NASCAR enthusiast and golf whiz — had shot several holes-in-one — quickly became involved in the Edgewater community. Gary and Frieda also raised two children, Chris and Julie, and proudly boast about not only four grandchildren, Caitlin, Colton, Josh and Levi, but also two great grandchildren, Madison and Olivia.

Gary became a charter member of the local Rotary Club in 1982 and had never missed a meeting. Along the way, he had held about every office, from Director to Vice President to chapter President. Obviously, he didn’t just show up. He gave his heart.

Pete Stanton, owner of the alarm company Security Center, a fellow Rotarian, and a friend of Gary’s for over 20 years, was quick to acknowledge Gary’s contribution to the Club and the community. “He helped wherever he could, through his own labor and his company’s financial support.”

“He was really one of the biggest proponents of Rotary in our community. The guy was soft-spoken, he treated you fairly in business and in life, and when he said he was going to do something, he got the job done — and done right.”

Rotary isn’t the only organization that’s benefitted from Gary’s time and energy. His generosity spanned the community from local baseball sponsor, March of Dimes and the Shriners. Gary’s participation was also evident with city government by his serving on the Board of Adjustments, Building Trades Regulatory & Appeals Board and the Firefighters Pension Board. He was on the Board of Directors for 8

COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

the Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce, and a member for 17 years. Chamber Executive Director Samantha Bishop was also generous in her praise.

“Gary had always been very community-minded, always helped with events. Not only was he one of our great local business people, he was someone who, if all he had was the shirt on his back, he’d give it to you.

He knew everyone in town, and they loved him.”

He also had been an independent contractor for the local Habitat for Humanity for eight years, providing all air conditioning and ductwork for Habitat homes at reduced rates. Servair is an Energy Star Certified contractor. Executive Director Rosemary Walker for Habitat lauded his involvement in donating his time, talent and enthusiasm to secure this certification.

Gary’s son Chris now serves as President of the company since his father’s passing. His career with Servair began when he was sixteen years old and now spans three decades!

Lisa Miller serves as Office Manager. A staff of four technicians serves Edgewater, New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill, Port Orange,

South Daytona Beach and Daytona Beach as well as many of the unincorporated areas of Volusia County.

The company has built a reputation for outstanding work performed at fair prices, with courtesy and professionalism.

Progress was steady and Servair survived the recession with minor ill effects.

One area did become clear, though. With the increasing reliance on technology, the company made the decision to move from ledger-based system to a computerized system.

This has helped Servair remain viable in an ever changing economy.

“Servair depends on referrals and word of mouth from our current customers. We feel that this is the highest praise our customers can give us,” Chris says.

Servair is a Premier Lennox dealer, and their relationship with the Lennox supplier in Orlando is a strong one.

Gary, Frieda and Chris Butt have built a successful business and a stellar reputation in the Edgewater area. “Having a family-run business had always been a goal,” said Gary. “There’s tremendous support, of course, from my team. I couldn’t have done it without them. But it’s a different feeling when it’s your family working side-by-side with you.”

With the passing of Gary, Chris continues the family-run tradition leading Servair into a bright future!

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EVEN YOUR A/C NEEDS REGULAR CHECK UPS

W

hether basking in the warm summer sun or enjoying the crisp cool winter air, Florida residents can maximize their cooling and heating system with a simple routine of regular maintenance. With a small amount of foresight, knowledge and time, home and business owners can enjoy clean and efficient air conditioning and heating throughout the year.

One of the easiest and least expensive maintenance tasks is to simply frequently clean or replace air filters between visits from a professional. Not only does this improve the quality of the air within the home, it also extends the efficiency and lifespan of your air conditioning system.

Servair’s President, Chris Butt, explains, “When we do a maintenance inspection, we’ll clean the drain lines, check the Freon levels, and change the filter, but keeping those filters clean between visits can make a big difference in air quality and efficiency.”

Preventing problems before they arise is ideal, and smart home and business owners rely on preventative maintenance plans to keep their systems working at peak efficiency and to ensure that should any problems arise, they are dealt with swiftly.

“If you are part of a yearly maintenance program, not only do you get us out twice annually (once in the spring and once in the fall) to maintain your system during the year, but should we have to come out at any other time during the year for service you get a 20% discount on parts and labor every time we come out and priority service,” Chris, says. “We offer service from 8 am to 8 pm every day. What priority service means for customers signed up with maintenance agreements is that they go to the top of the list.If you call us and 10 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

your unit is down, and you are already on a plan, you are our priority.”

Of course, maintaining your system is in your best interest, but it also might be a requirement of your equipment’s warranty. Most manufacturers require annual maintenance and records to provide warranty coverage, and some require proof of regular preventative maintenance plans and services.

“Not following the maintenance schedule might be enough to void some warranties,“ says Chris. “We recommend maintenance in the spring to get ready for the summer, and again in the fall to prepare for winter. It’s important to maintain the heating system, too. Our annual maintenance contracts offer coverage for both at one low price.”

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 11

SERVAIR SUPPORTS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

By Ellyn Santiago

S

outheast Volusia Habitat for Humanity is active in building, rehabilitating and repairing homes with families in need. Its mission, to provide adequate housing for low-income families, is accomplished through a partnership of volunteer effort, corporate in-kind support, individual donations and participant “sweat equity.”

Servair, a local HVAC company, has been involved with Habitat for eight years as an independent contractor. President Chris Butt notes that, with the help of Lennox, Servair has been able to provide all ductwork and air conditioning to Habitat homes at reduced rates.

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“We’re an Energy Star Certified contractor,” he says, “which gives the new homeowner peace of mind along with greatly reduced energy bills.”

There are many misconceptions regarding Habitat for Humanity.

According to Rosemary Walker, the Executive Director of the Southeast Volusia Habitat for Humanity office, the biggest misconception is that the homes Habitat builds are free to the client.

“The families selected to receive a Habitat home are working families,” she explained, “and they pay a mortgage. Although they probably would not qualify for conventional home financing, they’ll provide a small down payment and perform 350 to 500 hours of sweat equity working at our ReStore and on-site, building the home alongside our volunteers. They make monthly mortgage payments just the same as families with conventional mortgages. This is not a hand-out; it’s a hand-up.”

The great majority of Habitat families have one or more wage earners. Many hold jobs that involve hard work and unpleasant conditions, but do not pay well in our economy.

The homes are built by volunteers, yes, but under the supervision of experienced professional builders. Due to code requirements, plumbing, electrical and heating/air conditioning work is performed by local licensed contractors, and that’s where Servair fills the bill by providing the HVAC work for Habitat homes in Volusia County.

“When enough people believe a problem can and must be solved, it will be solved,” Ms. Walker stated emphatically.

“Habitat believes that by continuing to build with family partners, by working with other committed groups and communities, and by keeping the issue of substandard housing in people’s hearts and minds, the problem can be solved.”

Chris Butt underscored that statement. “Servair is proud to be part of the solution, and we plan to participate for years to come.”

“Chris is an investor. He invests his time, financial support and energy. Servair is going the extra mile. There’s not another AC contractor within 75 miles willing to invest the dollars, training and effort that Energy Star certification requires,” noted Ms Walker.

For more information about SE Volusia Habitat for Humanity and how you can help through donations of time, money or corporate support, please visit HabitatSEV.org.

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 13

f l e s r u o Y t Protec t n e m p i u q and Your E During and After a Storm By: Nate Freyburger

D

uring and after a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or hurricane—any storm that brings with it water and lightning— homeowners need to be cautious about using their heating, air conditioning, and plumbing appliances. If you don’t take proper precautions, you risk hurting yourself or causing permanent damage to your equipment that could end up costing you big.

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“It’s important to remember not to immediately restart heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm because it can be dangerous and could cause further damage,” said Chris Butt, President of Servair Heating & Air Conditioning. “The equipment may be severely damaged, its wiring may be damaged or it may have debris lodged in it. These are some of the many reasons why

damaging your expensive equipment by assuring it is dry, clean, and otherwise safe to use: • If the storm caused flooding, check all equipment thoroughly before you start it. If you aren’t absolutely sure the inner components are dry, don’t turn anything on.

• If there was any flooding, open your equipment and appliances.

Let air circulate; this will help with drying.

• It may be a good idea to have an electrician inspect your home’s wiring to make sure everything is dry and safe to use before you plug anything in or turn anything on.

• Additionally, it may be wise to have your heating and cooling equipment inspected by a service company.

Just make sure you work with someone reputable, since some businesses will seek out storm area victims just to make a quick buck.

The above rules should also apply to any appliance related to your home’s plumbing. However, the major risk for damaging plumbing equipment (not to mention harming yourself) comes primarily during a storm. Plumbing equipment uses water, which is the ideal conductor for lightning. It is possible to be struck by lightning while inside your home if you’re not careful.

Using the shower, sink, or other plumbing appliances during a storm could cause an electric shock. If lightning strikes your home or anywhere near your home, you could end up getting electrocuted through the metal pipes and the water you’re using.

One way to reduce the risk of unwanted damage caused by lightning is to use PVC pipes in your home. Unlike metal pipes, PVC pipes will not conduct electricity, making it safer to use plumbing during a storm. Still, it’s probably best not to use your plumbing at all until after it passes. it’s best to have a qualified service technician inspect your heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm.”

After a storm, it’s natural to want to get things back up and running as soon as possible. But before you turn your air conditioner or heater back on, take the proper steps to reduce the risk of

Overall, during storms it’s advised that you use as few electronic devices, plumbing equipment, and appliances as possible until the storm has passed and you’ve dealt with all the after effects. Your safety and the safety of your expensive equipment is worth a few extra minutes of inconvenience.

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 15

SOON YOU’LL BE SAYING...

‘ilove my iComfort’

L

ennox ‘smart’ thermostats and thermostat zoning systems can improve your quality of life. The iComfort S30 Smart and the iComfort Wi-Fi® thermostats are designed to help you get the best performance from your heating and cooling equipment. Each thermostat is compatible with a dedicated app that allows you to control settings with your mobile device. But the iComfort Wi-Fi model with the iHarmony Zoning System, takes home comfort to a whole other level.

When you leave home, the thermostat iComfort Wi-Fi will reduce system output and energy use with just a touch and when you return home, it will restore normal heating and cooling schedules. The iComfort Wi-Fi thermostat can make your home feel warm in more ways than one. It gives you the option of uploading a personal photo to use as a screensaver. Choose a family snapshot or a photo to complement your décor. And thanks to your new iCom16 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

fort Wi-Fi thermostat’s always-on connection to your home’s wireless network, the iComfort Wi-Fi displays a 5-day weather forecast and live weather alerts.

But here’s where it gets even more amazing. With the Lennox iHarmony zoning system, with a four-zone capability, anyone in the family can customize a room to their temperature preference without affecting the entire house. Yes, through the wireless access you have to the iComfort Wi-Fi, you can ‘zone’ your home comfort using your cellphone, tablet or laptop. One of the best things about this technology, besides convenience and control, is the 35% energy savings when you cut back on heating and cooling in unused areas of your home.

A highly-trained, friendly Servair technician will install and register your new iComfort Wi-Fi thermostat and you’ll be able to soon control your thermostat from anywhere.

Recently Lennox Product Manager Kyle Gordon told IE3 magazine that his company’s wireless thermostat technology isn’t just a win for homeowners, it’s smart for HVAC techs, too. In the unlikely event something goes wrong with your thermostat, your ServAir technician can remotely troubleshoot, make adjustments and fix the problem.

But even if we don’t have to come out to your house, you know we’re here for you and your home air comfort needs 24-7.

Call Servair today to learn more about the whole line of Lennox smart thermostats and zone systems.

You Can’t Control Summer Temperatures But You Can Control Your Energy Costs!

W

ith temperatures rising and energy costs soaring, there are a variety of steps you can take to cut the expenses of cooling your home.

“Cooling and heating equipment use more energy than any other appliance. This inevitably shows up every month on the energy bill, but it’s important to remember that energy costs can be controlled,” said Chris Butt, President of Servair Heating & Air Conditioning.

Annual Maintenance

One step to control energy costs is to schedule annual maintenance checks to make sure your unit is running efficiently. Most cooling systems require very little owner maintenance. However, operating dirty cooling equipment can result in an unnecessary loss of efficiency and can damage the air conditioning system. You play a vital role in making sure your cooling system continues to operate at peak performance.

High Efficiency Cooling Equipment

If you’re in the market for a new cooling unit, consider purchasing a high efficiency model. They can help reduce your energy costs as well as conserve our natural re-

sources. When selecting an air conditioner or heat pump, pay close attention to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio).

This is a measure of cooling efficiency for air conditioners. The higher the SEER, the higher the savings. The minimum SEER rating is 14.

Zoning

Zoning can drastically lower your heating costs. With zoning, you no longer have to pay to heat or cool areas of your home that are rarely used. You won’t have to heat or cool the whole house just to make one room comfortable. Zoning divides your home into separate comfort areas, which are heated or cooled based on your needs.

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable or setback thermostats can make a big difference in energy consumption. These thermostats deliver maximum comfort, efficiency, and energy savings. Programmable thermostats are used to achieve the temperatures you want throughout your home. For example, if you’re going to be away, you can set the whole house at an energy-saving temperature to avoid heating or cooling an empty house.

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 17

MOLD

It’s just a “four letter” Word...

By Maxine Reneé

Y

es, mold ... or the kinder, gentler word for it: mildew.

Whichever word you choose, they both increase stress levels and can make your return home less than ideal.

It doesn’t have to be that way. There are things you can do to prevent that nasty four-letter word from spoiling an otherwise wonderful vacation.

The Florida Department of Health’s website says “There are four kinds of health problems that come from exposure to mold: allergic illness, irritant effects, infection, and toxic effects. For people that are sensitive to molds, symptoms such as nasal and sinus irritation or congestion, dry 18 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

hacking cough, wheezing, skin rashes or burning, watery or reddened eyes may occur. People with severe allergies to molds may have more serious reactions, such as hay-fever-like symptoms or shortness of breath.” Mold is not an easily ignored house guest, and its impacts can have serious health impacts. If during an inspection of your home you find mold, especially in your air conditioning system, the time to act is now.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests the following: “Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold - it could spread mold through-

out the building. Unfortunately, it is thought that most, if not all, heating and air conditioning systems in Florida will support mold growth at some point. Stopping the use of an air conditioning system due to suspected mold growth would make most Florida buildings very uncomfortable during hot and humid weather.”

Mold is resilient and easily adaptable, it is part of our environment and it is here to stay. Preventing a buildup of mold in your home is part of the maintenance requirements of any healthy household, and if regularly addressed is not too bothersome or time-consuming. Some of

because the temperature rises, you get mold when the relative humidity rises. It could be 90°F in your home but unless the relative humidity is over 55 or 60 percent, the chances of mold forming are minimal.

If you have a de-humidistat, set it and the thermostat properly. The de-humidistat turns the air conditioner on by humidity increase rather than temperature increase.

The suggested and safest setting is 50% humidity and 80°F temperature – wired in series. This means the temperature must get over 80°F and the humidity over 50% before the air conditioner turns on. Your thermostat control should be set to automatic and cool. NEVER set the fan in the “on” position.

A continuous fan operation will increase the relative humidity in your home.

Ask a neighbor to check your home once a week or after a storm.

One other pitfall to avoid is this: Most of us think we only need to prepare against mold if we’re going away for the entire summer. Few realize or are aware that, under the right circumstances, mold can form in just 48 hours! And once it starts, it reproduces every six minutes. So do the math. If you’re leaving for more than a week, there’s an outside chance you could return to that funny smell that means there’s something wrong. Now we’re not saying that you’ll get mold every time you leave the house for more than two days.

What we are saying is that it doesn’t take long if the conditions are idyllic.

the steps you can take are obvious, others are not so obvious. Below is a list of tips that will help to minimize the chances of creating an environment conducive to the generation of microbial spores (that’s the technical term for mold): you leave, close your windows ▪▪Before (especially in bathrooms and bedrooms) and seal sliding glass doors.

all south and west facing blinds ▪▪Close and curtains. or replace your air conditioner ▪▪Clean filter on a regular basis.

up spreads and dust ruffles on ▪▪Turn couches and chairs. Stand your couch cushions on end.

cabinet drawers and closets (es▪▪Open pecially in bathrooms and bedrooms).

Keep in mind that you want air to circulate rather than remain stagnant.

the hot and cold water off. This ▪▪Turn should be done even if you are gone for

a short time. (Flush your water for a few minutes when you return.)

You also might have heard, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” When it comes to mold that’s exactly correct. You do not get mold

Generally speaking if you’re only leaving for a week or two, all you need to do is set your thermostat at 80°F or 82°F and you should not have a problem. If you plan to be away for a month or longer, that’s when it would be wise to take more serious precautionary measures.

Should you have a situation arise or desire additional information on products or practices that reduce the chance of mold, the indoor air quality professionals at Servair Heating & Air Conditioning would be happy to assist you.

Here’s to an awesome summer and to a mold free home when you return.

For more information call 386-427-1531, or visit Servair on the web at Servairac.com 386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 19

You Wouldn’t Drink a Glass of this Dirty Water Why Breath Dirty Air?

A

ccording to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. They conducted studies that revealed the levels of pollutants from air indoors may be between 50% and 99% higher than outdoor levels.

Ultraviolet (UV) lights are inexpensive germicidal devices that help to improve the air quality of your home and when properly installed in your

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Stops Mold Spores

Eliminates Pollen

Eradicates Bacteria Kills Viruses

HVAC system, is an effective method for preventing indoor air contamination from spreading throughout your home.

Your air conditioning and heating system is a breeding ground for germs, since it’s warm and moist inside. All air in your home travels through your HVAC system. In the process, your system collects germs such as mold, bacteria and virus, which are then blown back out through the vents and dispersed everywhere—and this is only after they’ve had time to multiply. Allowing these germs to run amok inside your air conditioner can lead to serious health concerns, especially if you don’t clean your system as often as you should.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. They conducted studies that revealed the levels of pollutants from air indoors may be between 50% and 99% higher than outdoor levels.

UV lights can be installed in air conditioning systems to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Long exposure to UV light breaks apart molecular bonds and destroys cells, which ultimately purifies the home’s indoor air. Because microbes and mold must be close to the light source in order to be affected, UV lights are placed near the air conditioning coil and condensation pan.

Without UV lights, the coil and pan could provide the perfect setting for microbes to grow. Installing UV lights can help keep your system’s evaporator coils germ-free.

UV light air cleaners come in a variety of sizes. Some are small, designed to be attached to a one-room air conditioning unit.

Other lights are more powerful; these are placed inside your

central air system, working to kill germs throughout the entire home.

Are these safe to use?

Ultraviolet light is the radiation from sunlight. And while ultraviolet radiation in significant doses can cause serious health problems, the air-cleaning lights used in HVAC systems are not harmful to humans.

Air cleaners emit UV-C radiation, which does not have a wavelength long enough to penetrate the skin. So, while UV air cleaners are powerful enough to irradiate germs into extinction, they will not harm you or your family.

Isn’t an air filter enough?

Filters are successful at trapping large particles, such as pollen, dust and even dust mites. However, most germs are small enough to pass through a filter, even if you use expensive high-efficiency ones. UV lights pick up the slack, helping to kill any additional virus, bacteria and mold that aren’t stopped by your air filter.

Servair offers UV solutions for your HVAC system. Our highly skilled and trained comfort technicians are well versed in the air quality improvements and energy savings attainable with their use. You should make UV lights a part of any new system you consider but they can also be installed in your existing system. Give Servair a call at 386-427-1531 for more information.

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REPAIR?

Replace?

IS YOUR A/C ACTING UP?

T

he air conditioning unit outside of your home works hard day in and day out to keep your family cool. Just like every other bit of technology in your life, your air conditioner accumulates wear and tear every day from casual use.

There is a good chance that installing a new air conditioning system will end up costing you less in the long run. You can decide whether you are going to repair your current unit or replace it.

Here are some tips to help you figure out what the future of your air conditioner is.

Cost Difference Between A/C Repair and A/C Replacement

The first thing that you are going to want to look into is what the difference in cost is between having your current A/C repaired or having a brand new one installed. If the cost of fixing your expensive home appliance is close to your quote for a new installation, the replacement option is a better choice.

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Age is Often the Determinant

On the other hand, with a newer air conditioner that requires just a simple fix that is low in cost, you will find it more beneficial to just keep what you have and complete the small repair. When it comes to an older air conditioner though, the improvement on energy efficiency alone can quickly offset the price paid for a new system. Keep this in mind when trying to choose between an A/C repair or an A/C replacement.

The General Rule of Air Conditioner Efficiency

The rule of thumb for trying to decide, based on the age, is if the system is around two years old, there is a good chance repairs will be beneficial. An air conditioner’s lifespan is around eight to fifteen years. If yours is around that age, replacement is what you are looking for. When it comes to air conditioners that are about four years old, it is possible for the decision to go either way.

This will Save You More Hassle than You Know Energy Star Efficiency If your air conditioner has done nothing but give you problems since it was installed, it could save you future headaches by just junking your constantly failing air conditioning unit. This will save yourself more hassle than you know. Having a system that is reliable and efficient that also includes a yearly scheduled maintenance visit will prove an amazing choice that will continue functioning for years.

Rely on Newer Technology

The biggest advantage of a new A/C unit is the strong possibility that the new model is energy-efficient. It is not likely that the monthly savings on your utility bills will show the savings in the first month. In the course of a few years, that air conditioning unit can successfully pay for itself and begin to make you money.

When choosing a new air conditioning unit, look for the seal from Energy Star. This model meets or exceeds guidelines that the Environmental Protection Agency sets for energy efficiency. This can all get confusing if you are not sure what it means.

You can expect outstanding customer service that will exceed your expectations when you choose Servair Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. We will send our highly qualified technician to your home to inspect the issues you are having with your air conditioning unit.

Take OUR Repair vs Replace Quiz Is it Time to Repair or Replace Your Faulty HVAC Unit?

1. Age of your unit? a. 1-7 b. 8+ 2. How much have you spent on your unit the past year? a. Under $600 b. Over $600 3. Are your energy bills increasing each month? a. Yes b. No 4. Is your HVAC system maintained regularly? a. Yes b. No 5. Does your home have humidity problems? a. Yes b. No 6. Are some rooms in your home often too cold or to hot? a. Yes b. No 7. Is your HVAC unit unusually noisy? a. Yes b. No 8. Does your home have excessive dust? a. Yes b. No

SCORES!

0-2 Points – REPAIR

Based on information you provided, your HVAC system should be repaired! In order to fix your unit, please reach out to our team of experts. Remember, regular maintenance for your HVAC system is required to keep your unit running properly. Use these tips to prevent future problems: don’t skip routine maintenance, make service calls when there is an unusual problem, keep your coils and filters clean, and keep the outdoor unit free of debris.

3-5 Points – CALL A TECHNICIAN

We recommend having a technician come out to further inspect your unit! In order to give you the most accurate advice, please reach out to our team of experts to schedule an appointment.

6-8 Points – REPLACE YOUR A/C

Based on the information you provided, your HVAC system should be replaced! In order to determine the best new unit for your home, please reach out to our team of experts to request a FREE installation quote. Did you know that if your unit is more than eight years old, it could be using twice the amount of energy that a new one would?

KEY: 1. a-0, b-1 2. a-0,b-1 3. a-1, b-0 4. a-0, b-1 5. a-1, b-0 6. a-1, b-0 7. a-1, b-0 8. a-1, b-0

TIP: New units can have up to a 20 SEER efficiency rating, reducing monthly costs significantly.

TIP: An oversized unit’s constant cycling leads to poor humidity control and premature failure.

TIP: Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics or basements and distribute them throughout your house causing an increase in household dust.

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 23

D DUCT-FREE AIR CONDITIONERS OFFER MULTIPLE BENEFITS

uctless mini-split or duct-free system HVAC units can be a useful alternative to cool and heat homes and businesses. Through a variety of sizes and capabilities of controlling the air temperature in individual zones or rooms in the building, they offer both economic and environmental advantages. HVAC companies like Servair Heating & Air Conditioning are installing them in multi-family housing, renovations of older single-family homes, as well as businesses’ server rooms, waiting rooms and office spaces. They also have a money and energy savings advantage when some areas of an office space are used infrequently or not at all (such as a build-out waiting for occupancy), by only conditioning the space that is occupied.

Duct-free systems, as the name implies, have no duct work and consist of an outdoor condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. These are linked together with tubing that houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, and a drain tube for condensation. In many ways, they operate in a manner quite similar to a standard air conditioning system.

Chris Butt, President of Servair Heating & Air Conditioning,

More than three decades ago, Mitsubishi Electric launched its North American HVAC division bringing ductless systems to the U.S. Within seven years, it had begun its campaign to enlist quality dealers and by 2009, it introduced its Star Lineup, many are EnergyStar rated and qualify for federal tax credits. Just two years later, its split-ductless systems won the Top 10 Product Award from Building Green. For decades now, Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc. Cooling & Heating Division’s advanced climate control systems have provided personalized comfort while conserving energy and promoting environmental sustainability. Mitsubishi Electric is proud to be the third largest manufacturer of cooling and heating systems in the world. But its goal is to be first globally in providing “comfort without compromise.”

24 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

noted that the main advantages of duct-free systems are ease of installation, cost savings, energy savings and flexibility in locating the system for cosmetic concerns and sound control as well as logistical applications. Chris also highlighted the fact that his company is recognized as a Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Contractor.

“The benefits are often overlooked by customers, but we like to point out that duct-free systems can be installed in places where conventional ducted systems simply can’t go. Options for interior design include ceiling and wall mounted units, drop ceiling applications and even a picture gallery unit that allows the owner to customize the look of the space,” he said. “Floor-standing models are also available. Most indoor units have profiles of about eight to eleven inches deep and have a range of aesthetically refined designs suitable for any home or office. All models offer a remote control to easily make adjustments to the system’s air flow pattern or temperature and on and off when it’s positioned high on a wall or suspended from a ceiling.”

Mitsubishi Electric Duct-free systems can also help to keep your home safer because there is only a small hole for the tubing to pass through the wall. Window-mounted and through-the-wall

room air-conditioners, unfortunately, can provide an easy entrance for intruders.

“For many of our customers, the unique advantages of this type of system are important. Our installers are highly trained, they attend hands-on training as well as up-to-date factory training and testing,” Chris continued. “I would caution against using a company whose technicians are not proficient in this type of installation, as each unit must be correctly sized and placed. An error here could result in wasted energy, improper temperature or humidity control, and greater long-term operational expenses.”

Chris, encourages home and business owners replacing existing systems, building new or remodeling to consider duct-free systems. “The cost savings can be significant in terms of installation and energy use without compromising the comfort level of the rooms or occupants. Our professional technicians are continuously trained to help customers determine the best options for cooling and heating your home or business.”

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 25

Grandma Miller’s Ingredients

Crumb Cake

2 Cups all-purpose flour 1 cup plus two tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 and ¼ stick cold unsalted butter (10 Tablespoons) 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9 inch springform pan with butter, Crisco or shortening. Dust it with flour. Tap out any excess flour.

In a large bowl combine flour, sugar and salt. Cut in the cold butter in small pieces until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture in a small bowl.

In the large bowl add the baking powder and baking soda to the crumb mixture. In a large measuring cup (if you don’t have one use another small bowl) mix together the room temperature egg, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add liquid ingredients from the measuring cup to the dry ingredients in the large bowl in three parts. (Adding the liquid by thirds will make the stirring a little easier as this mixture will be hard to stir. You may want to use a mixer but make sure you don’t add all the liquid at once and try to mix on high speed or you will be wearing the batter.) Once all the liquid has 26 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

¾ cup room temperature buttermilk 1 large egg at room temperature 2 teaspoons vanilla 2/3 cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon

been incorporated into the large bowl of dry ingredients, continue stirring until the batter is smooth and fluffy. Spoon the batter into the greased springform pan smoothing the top.

Add the brown sugar and cinnamon to the small bowl of reserved flour crumble making the topping. A fork works best for mixing this. Sprinkle the topping over the batter in the springform pan.

Lightly press it down so that it sticks to the batter.

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 50 – 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and not sticky.

Let the cake cool about 10 minutes and then remove the sides of the springform pan. Cake is easier to cut if it is left to cool completely. Store covered at room temperature for up to a week. If it lasts that long! Enjoy!

Thermostat Control From the Comfort of Anywhere.

Wi-Fi VisionPRO® 8000 Touchscreen Thermostat ENERGY SAVINGS Program your thermostat to help reduce your annual heating and cooling bill.

SIMPLE SETUP Easy-to-follow menus guide you through the scheduling process.

HUMIDITY CONTROL Control your home’s indoor humidity level right on screen.

AUTO ALERTS Get alerts on your smartphone or tablet when the temperature in your home gets too hot or too cold.

REAL TIME CLOCK Automatically update for daylight savings and keeps time in the even of a power failure.

5-YEAR WARRANTY Backed by the most trusted brand in the industry.

Connectivity: simplified With the Wi-Fi VisionPRO® 8000 and Honeywell’s Total Connect Comfort services, you can monitor and manage comfort and energy usage anytime, anywhere.

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com CAC1818828

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 27

MEET THE TEAM Chris Butt President

Chris started with the family business as an installer when he was 16 years old, working after school. Today he is President, managing company operations and the sales division. He and his wife Patty have a son, Levi.

Lisa Miller

Tony Adorante

Office Manager

Comfort Advisor

After a career as a City of Edgewater employee, Lisa operated her own bakery for five years before joining Servair as Office Manager in 2009.

Tony started his AC career in South Florida and continued when he moved to his current home in Edgewater. Tony joined Servair as a Comfort Advisor in 2016 and excels at helping our customers choose the best systems to meeting individual needs. Tony and his wife Kim, have a daughter and a son.

Meet the Team At Servair we value honesty, caring, team work and service excellence. A recent customer warmed our hearts by saying, “Good work done by courteo us people. We trust you!� Our goal is to earn your trust in the same manner: good work done by courteous people.

This is your Team at Servair.

28 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

Sharon Lowe

Kim Rash

Colby McPheron

Office Assistant

HVAC Facilitator

Service Tech/Installer

Sharon is a long-time resident of this area.

She worked for Dunn Lumber for many years before coming to Servair. She joined us as our Office Assistant in 2014. She and her husband Rodger, have one son Morgan.

Kim retired from a career with the City of Edgewater and joined the Servair family as an HVAC Facilitator.

Josh McRae

Ken Grover

Service Tech/Installer

Service Tech/Installer

Josh McRae has worked for Servair for several years.

He is married and daughter a has

Ken recently joined the Servair Family.

He grew up in Volusia County. Ken enjoys fishing, surfing and the outdoors.

Colby is a resident of Port Orange and graduated from the HVAC program at Daytona State College. Colby started as an installer and has recently moved into service.

Bill Vigeant Service Tech/Installer

Bill recently joined the Servair Family after moving down from New York. He enjoys the beach.

UNDERSTANDING WARRANTIES Manufacturers are beginning to enforce, with greater regularity, the terms and conditions within your paperwork. These changes may affect you.

W

hen you purchased your new air conditioning system it came with a manufacturer’s warranty, and you should have received a copy. That paperwork contains the manufacturer’s terms and conditions for your warranty. If you cannot find your paperwork, please do not hesitate to call our customer service department, and we will be happy to assist you.

ation. The effect is that we will no longer be able to use generic truck stock parts. Although these changes are difficult, we make it our priority to bring you comfort as quickly as possible.

▪ Manufacturers only cover work performed during normal business hours.

▪ Very few manufacturers allow you to transfer warranties to

▪ Manufacturers now require yearly maintenance by an autho-

▪ Manufacturers are now requiring the use of OEM (Original

We want to thank you for choosing Servair Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. If you have any questions related to your warranty, please do not hesitate to call us at 386-427-1531.

the new owner upon the sale of your property. Please check with your dealer to see if your system warranty is transferrable.

However, if you purchased a ten year labor contract that may be transferrable. Call your dealer for more specific information on your system.

Equipment Manufacturer) parts. At the moment, there are thousands of possible OEM parts for any of the multiple manufacturers, which makes using and obtaining parts a difficult situ-

rized dealer/servicer in order to keep a warranty in good standing. If you are not currently having maintenance done on your equipment at least once a year, contact an authorized servicer in your area as soon as possible.

386.427.1531 I COMFORT ZONE 29

WHY SHOULD YOU INVEST IN AN...

EXTENDED LABOR AGREEMENT?

P

remium Protection Plan is a convenient and affordable extended service agreement that provides you with “Guaranteed Peace of Mind.”

Failures happen even to the industry’s top equipment. With complex replacement parts and the need for expert technicians, the costs to service your equipment are higher than ever. Our plans provide comprehensive protection against any unexpected mechanical failures your HVAC system might have during the life of the agreement.

Agreements can be purchased up to 2 years from the start up date of your equipment.

With Premium Protection Plan you can rest assured if the unfortunate happens to you, you are covered!

▪▪No Deductable ▪▪Covers ALL Brands ▪▪No Limit On Repairs ▪▪Affordable Protection

Average Repair Costs Without Coverage

Coil Replacement.....................$1,200 Compressor Replacement........$1,500 Condenser/Blower Motor...........$750 Please note that you must have a routine annual inspection every year in order to keep the Extended Labor Agreement in effect.

Coverage

Most manufacturer’s limited warranties do not cover labor, however, with Premium Protection Plan 100% of the labor charges associated with your repairs are covered. Based on the plan you select, our agreements may even extend the manufacturers limited parts warranty, ensuring your equipment is fully covered for both parts and labor.

Call us today for more details!

(386)427-1531

We have many financing plans to suit your needs! Call for more information today!

What if I Need a Repair or my System is not Working?

CALL THE ISSUING DEALER LISTED ON YOUR AGREEMENT. The contact information is listed on the first page of the agreement. They will send a service technician to check on your system.

Do I have to maintain my equipment?

YES, MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED. Like an oil change for your car, your HVAC system needs to be maintained properly to ensure its performance.

What if the Issuing Dealer is no longer in business?

CONTACT THE COMPANY YOUR PURCHASED THE LABOR AGREEMENT WITH AND THEY WILL TRANSFER YOUR AGREEMENT TO ANOTHER CONTRACTOR.

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com 30 COMFORT ZONE I SERVAIRAC.COM

CAC1818828

PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST THE UNEXPECTED WITH A HOME SERVICE AGREEMENT PLAN Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, saving on utility bills. Potential problems can be prevented or corrected early. Also proper servicing extends the life of your heating and air conditioning system. Plus regular maintenance keeps your manufacturer’s warranty in force. Other benefits include fewer repairs and improved capacity from your system. Service agreements are transferable.

SILVER LEVEL BRONZE LEVEL annual System Maintenance ▪▪ One on your AC system discount on new or ▪▪ $100 replacement AC

$89

semi-annual System ▪▪ Two Maintenances on your AC system, spring & fall

▪▪ Replace all 1” Filters Annually ▪▪ No Overtime Rates ▪▪ 20% discount on all parts discount on new or ▪▪ $150 replacement AC

$159

GOLD LEVEL semi-annual System ▪▪ Two Maintenances on your AC system, spring & fall

on service calls within 4 ▪▪ Priority hours

▪▪ Replace all 1” Filters Annually ▪▪ No Overtime Rates ▪▪ 25% discount on all parts discount on new or ▪▪ $200 replacement AC

$229

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com

CAC1818828

Your Home Deserves

STAR

Treatment!

Call About Our SmartComfort ® Deluxe Series Packaged Products Designed for heating and/or cooling comfort in one superior packaged product Impressive SEER cooling ratings as high as 16 SEER Outstanding No Hassle ReplacementTM limited warranty and 10 year parts limited warranty protection*

PARTS LIMITED

TIMELY REGISTRATION REQUIRED. PLEASE SEE WARRANTY CERTIFICATE FOR DETAILS.

LIMITED

WARRANTY

YEAR

WARRANTY

*Timely registration required for 10 year parts limited warranty.

Limited warranty period is 5 years for parts if not registered within 90 days of installation. Jurisdictions where warranty benefits cannot be conditioned on registration will receive the registered limited warranty periods. Please see warranty certificate for further details and restrictions.

Many models are ENERGY STAR® qualified. Ask your contractor for details or visit www.energystar.gov.

It’s Too Hot To Lose Your Cool.

Serving SE Volusia County’s Heating & A/C Needs Since 1978

386.427.1531 • Servairac.com CAC1818828