Complimentary Issue
jacksonac.com
Community Building at
the ballpark in Jackson
Understanding
Warranties
even your AC needs a check-up Furnace Inspection
get YOUR “peace of mind� today Your Comfort is Our Business
LET’S GET
Heat wave or ice age, we want you to be comfortable in your home. So sit back, relax and breathe easy with heating and air conditioning systems from Amana brand.
COMFY
JACKSON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING HAS BEEN SERVING THE COMMUNITY UNDER THE SAME OWNER FOR OVER 20 YEARS
GIVE US A CALL TODAY! jacksonac.com
CONTENTS 5
jackson guarantees
6
greetings
8
history of jackson
10
why your ac needs a check-up
12
the need for duct cleaning
14
why your whole house needs a dehumidifier
15
don’t throw your money away
16 18 20
8
community building at the ballpark at jackson take precautions after a severe storms furnace inspections
22
jackson & geo thermal a perfect match
24
why get a second opinion
26
cool air isn’t necessarily good air
28
did someone say taco soup?
29
meet jack the eagle
30
understanding warranties
31
maintenance & membership
16
29
© 2015 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 Jackson Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 731-424-5348. 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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Jackson Heating & Air Conditioning
GUARANTEES “Your Comfort is Our Business. We are very good at what we do and we take so much pride in our work that we guarantee your satisfaction.” That is the promise from Barry White, Owner and President of Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning, and their website itemizes that list of guarantees.
exchanger in your furnace fails in the first 10 years, we will install a new furnace.
UTILITY SAVINGS GUARANTEE
After a proper diagnosis of your Heating and Cooling Unit and you agree to our recommendation for a more permanent solution and in the event that another issue occurs in the same season, we will come out and fix for free.
We want you to save money. Therefore, if you do not save a minimum of 30 percent on your heating and cooling costs realized during the first year, we will refund double-the-difference of your savings. If you are not certain of your guaranteed savings, contact us immediately for an evaluation. We will conduct a thorough engineering analysis and comfort survey to ensure that your system’s performance will save you money.
COMFORT GUARANTEE
$500 NO-FRUSTRATION GUARANTEE
Temperature comfort level differs for each individual. We promise the heating or cooling system will perform as we agreed or we will remove the system at no charge.
We want to keep our money, too. But, we will pay $500 to you for any inconvenience that results from a heating or air conditioning system breaking down during the first year. If we fail to repair the same day, you will receive $500 for your inconvenience.
FIXED RIGHT OR IT’S FREE
NO LEMONS GUARANTEE We stand by our equipment, as they are built to last. However, if the compressor in your air conditioner fails once in the first five years, we will install a complete and new outside unit. If the heat
$500 Installation Date Guarantee: If we do not have your new system operating by the date promised, we will pay you $500 for your inconvenience.
PROPERTY PROTECTION GUARANTEE
Our work can cause disruption to your property, but none of that matters with our guarantee. We promise your lawns, shrubbery, carpeting, floors, walls, furniture and door frames will be protected. Damaged property will be replaced or repaired. Our technicians wear protective shoe covers. And, we provide hall runners for all work and traffic areas. 100 PERCENT MONEY BACK GUARANTEE We guarantee that the equipment we have installed will perform as we have stated. If the system does not heat or cool your home to your satisfaction, we will remove it and return 100 percent of your investment. From your initial contact with our friendly office staff, you will discover we care enough to provide the best way to lower your bills, quote the exact price of each job, maintain your system and keep your home comfortable throughout every season. And, that’s our guarantee!
Fixed Right or It’s Free! 731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE
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GREETINGS
by Maxine Reneé
BARRY WHITE
President of Jackson Heating & Air Conditioning
J
ackson Heating and Air Conditioning started servicing the Jackson, Tennessee community more than 20 years ago, and founder, Barry White (BW) has held to his vision of providing quality service to customers.
“The business started out as a way to do what I know best, what I was trained to do. Our vision for the company has morphed, and our company is not only about service, but about being a vehicle for building a sense of community, for customers, family and staff. We strive for long-term relationships with our customers,” says White. According to White, “The success of a business is only as strong as its team. At Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning, we hire skilled tradesmen with integrity and we continually train them to meet industry standards.” Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning is committed to offering safe and trustworthy service that enhances the lives of those it touches. Security is taken very seriously and Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning wants its customers to know that all technicians and staff person working for the company are background checked as part of their commitment to security. Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning continually trains their staff and technicians to meet or exceed industry standards, and this family-owned business constantly monitors daily activity so any service issues are managed immediately. Sincerely,
Barry White, President
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As technology advances, customers can trust that the team stays ahead of the learning curve. They want customers to know they are receiving the best available information and options to meet their needs. Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning wants customers to be educated so they can make informed decisions. Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the National Contractor Association, Jackson Chamber of Commerce, an A+ rated BBB business, and they have received a Superior Service Award from Angie’s list, which can only be achieved by consumer ratings. According to White, “Mean what you say and say what you mean. Simply put, do it right! Our customers can rest assured that I don’t take it lightly when I say that it will be fixed right or it’s free.”White says, “As the business grew, the ability to give back to my community also became a priority. The vision and mission for the company quickly incorporated a commitment to support the at-large community too. It is rewarding to build a company that will outlast me and help support families and friends within the Jackson community.” Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning has a mascot in Jack the Eagle who is out there at schools and community events. A favorite location for Jack to show up is at a Jackson Generals game. A lifelong fan of baseball and former player, BW and his team at Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning are corporate supporters of the Jackson Generals, a minor league baseball team for the Seattle Mariners. “Anyone that knows how to build a sense of community understands the importance of opportunities to socialize. What better way to connect with your community than through the All-American sport of baseball?” says BW. (see Jackson Generals editorial)
Your car has met its
GOT COLLISION DAMAGE? CONTACT US!
MATCHMASTER
OF JACKSON
WE DON’T WANT EVERYBODY’S BUSINESS, JUST YOURS.
993 Airways Blvd Suite A, Jackson, TN 38301
731-868-1542
JACKSON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
THE JOURNEY
B
uilding a family-owned business is all about building relationships that help businesses and communities thrive, and Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning is proud to be part of the Jackson, Tennessee community. The owner of Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning, Barry White, aka BW, grew up in Skullbone, Tennessee. As a farm boy, he worked on mechanical systems, and cut his teeth in the construction trade. BW attended Union University from 1973 to 1977, but worked in the HVAC industry while in school. With a strong, hands-on background and a vision, immediately following graduation, BW
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by Marge McCarthy
enrolled in vocational school. He wanted to take his knowledge of mechanical systems to the next level. In 1981 BW went to Dallas, where he started his first HVAC company. He built and operated that business successfully for 10 years, but decided he wanted to move back to Jackson, so he sold that business in 1991. After returning to Tennessee, and with the support of his family, BW made a decision to start Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning in 1992. Anyone that has ever started a business can appreciate the effort it takes to start from scratch, but BW was committed.
COMFORT ZONE I JACKSONAC.COM
Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning was built on the old-fashioned idea of servicing the community, not only through serving the needs of his customers, but also through building strong community connections. Those values continue to drive the business today. The service area for Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning includes Madison County and the counties that touch it. Response time is typically the same day, or immediate, if necessary. Today Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning employs between 6-10 staff that include service techs, installation crews and office staff. Although business operations consume much of BW’s time, he still
“We are thankful to live in this community and we enjoy giving back whenever we can,” says BW. “We are your neighbors and strive to be the top residential service and replacement company in this market.” steps in when needed, and is proud to tell stories about the times his company goes over and above board for customers. “We can’t do it for everyone, but one customer was out of town, and a family member was staying at the home. They locked themselves out of the house and we had the only other key. The customer called to ask if we could possibly go over and let their family member in. We did because they were a good customer,” says BW.
Customer trust and high-level, and a commitment to get-it-done-right service is the number one reason Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning has built a strong reputation. Service staff consists of highly-trained and well-groomed professionals. They are uniformed, drive marked trucks and Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning operates a drug and tobacco-free work environment. All staff are drug tested and background checked, both locally and nationally, and no felons will ever be hired, no matter the circumstances.
“The stringent guidelines we’ve established have narrowed the window for quality hires, but we cannot make an exception because we will not compromise the trust of our customers. We’ve had to turn away potential quality hires, people we know and trust in our personal life, but if they’ve made bad choices, they cannot work for Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. We stand by our principles. No exceptions,” says BW. Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning offers HVAC home inspections for people considering a home purchase, and anyone wishing to have their existing mechanical operations inspected. According to BW, “We want to educate our customers and are always willing to provide a second opinion. The HVAC is the largest appliance in the home and the system consumes 40-60% of the total utility bill. We believe customers should know about the health of their mechanical systems, the estimated lifespan and how to keep their equipment operating at optimal efficiency. We can offer a one-time inspection or set up club memberships, which offer customers added benefits.” BW likes to stay current on the very latest diagnostic tools, training and operation equipment. The techs use iPads that not only tie to customer’s remote records, but give the techs an option to capture a digital image that can not only be stored for reference, but can also be shared with customer, so they can see what the tech sees. Boasts BW, “I’m proud to state that our company is progressive and we are always looking for world-class service options for our customers.” Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning is also involved with the community and
their mascot, Jack the Eagle is part of the community fabric. “Jack the Eagle is a way to reach out and build a sense of community. We take Jack to area schools. jack also hosts coloring contests, participates in the Christmas and children’s Mardi Gras parades. Jack the Eagle is a local celebrity and attends every Jackson Generals home game during baseball season,” says BW. “We are thankful to live in this community and we enjoy giving back whenever we can,” says BW. “We are your neighbors and strive to be the top residential service and replacement company in this market. If Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning has serviced your equipment, and you don’t have to think about us, we have done our job!”
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WHY YOUR AC needs check ups Y our air conditioner is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, and it deserves some love and special attention. At least once a year it’s important to give your air conditioning system a full inspection and tune-up, to assure that it’s running smoothly when you need it most.
by Clair Cameron
If you live in a warm climate, chances are your air conditioner runs constantly for most of the year. During that time, filters will become dirty, coils can become caked with dust, blockages may develop, and system leaks may become worse.
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Any number of issues may develop in your system while it’s actively working overtime to cool your home and, conversely, your system may also develop problems while it’s dormant during the winter months. Servicing your unit allows any potential concerns to be spotted early, before they become worse.
If your air conditioning system has a small problem that you allow to spiral downward, a major repair could be in your future. The cost of an a air conditioning repair – or worse, a full system replacement – is almost certainly going to be more expensive than a maintenance appointment. Look at it this way: If your car needs an oil change and you neglect to take care of it, you could end up blowing the engine. Your air conditioner works much in the same way; you have to maintain it regularly, or you risk causing serious damage that could end up costing you a small fortune. The longevity and health of your system is only part of the reason why regular upkeep is a great idea. Annual maintenance assures that your system is working as efficiently as possible, using only the amount of energy it needs to get the job done. In short, keeping your system clean and tuned-up improves energy efficiency, and will likely save you money on energy bills. For older systems, this annual maintenance is even more important, and not just because it’s at increased risk for breaking down. Older systems are less energyefficient and, combined with the rising cost of power, saving money while using them can be a real hassle. By paying for a relatively inexpensive service call once or twice a year, you’re almost assuredly going to get that money back in terms of what you’ll save on bills. A service call keeps all systems running at an optimal level, and for older systems it may be what prevents a major malfunction. Remember, no machine is designed to work forever. Your air conditioning system needs to be taken care of properly, and doing so could expand its lifespan well beyond the years the manufacturer ever intended.
Regular maintenance has an upfront cost, but neglecting to do it could be far more expensive. In the end, a large repair bill is going to cost you far more, and the savings you’ll reap on energy bills are worth the cost of an appointment.
731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 11
THE NEED FOR
DUCT CLEANING
O
ne issue about owning a home may not concern you because, what you can’t see, doesn’t hurt you. Or does it?
Indoor pollution affects 21 million people each year in the United States, sources say. Scientific evidence indicates that the air within homes can be 70 times more polluted than the outdoor air. People spend approximately 60-90% of their time indoors. While those who spend the longest time indoors, such as the very young, elderly, or chronically ill, may be more exposed to pollutants indoors than outdoors. Indoor air pollution may be invisible, but consider all the sources that may pollute the air you breathe in your home; oil, gas, kerosene,
by Tori Wexler
coal, wood, and tobacco products; building materials, deteriorated, asbestos-containing insulation; wet or damp carpet; cabinetry or furniture made of certain pressed wood products; household cleansers; personal care or hobby items; or humidification devices. Even outside sources such as radon and pesticides can come through the openings. Your air duct system works to remove indoor air, then take in and distribute filtered and conditioned outdoor air to strategic points throughout the house. With continuous airflow, dust, dirt, oils, microbes, mold and other fungi accumulate and, like arteries, line the walls of your air ducts. Inadequate ventilation, created by smaller and smaller openings, prevents outdoor air from diluting
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emissions from indoor sources. The best way to address these pollutants is by ventilating your home with clean outdoor air. By hiring a duct cleaning service to sanitize the air ducts throughout your home, you may prevent illness and chronic health conditions. The Rotobrush Air Duct System Cleaning uses brushes and vacuums at the point of contact, eliminating the use of harsh chemicals, such as sealers. The Roto-Vision Video Inspection System shows you where accumulated pollutants are located, and after duct cleaning, verifies completion of the job. Technicians first start with cleaning register covers to remove cooking oil film, nicotine
Your air duct system works to remove indoor air, then take in and distribute filtered and conditioned outdoor air to strategic points throughout the house. With continuous airflow, dust, dirt, oils, microbes, mold and other fungi accumulate and, like arteries, line the walls of your air ducts. film and other dust-collectors. They deep clean the air supply source, such as the blower, squirrel cage, coils, condensation pan and return air supply. Technicians then use the Rotobrush Air System to brush vacuum air ducts. Air duct construction, such as flex duct, round metal ducts, square metal ducts, and fiberboard, get the full treatment as Rotobrush maneuvers around right angle turns, reducers and multiple bends. Rotobrush technology removes contaminants such as pollen, tobacco, mold, animal dander, etc. that circulate through the air duct system. Finally, technicians disinfect the air ducts and vents with an environmentally safe sanitizer used in hospitals and nursing homes. Just how often should homeowners hire a duct cleaning service? That depends. The EPA recommends cleaning every year. However, the activities in your system may require less or more time when you account for the following factors:
Can you see contaminates in the ductwork? The smallest of microbes hide in insulated-lined ductwork. Have these contaminants been tested for their type and quantity? (Mold, dust mites, insect remains or feces, etc.)
Can these pollutants, odors or byproducts flow through the ducts and enter occupied space? Can these sources be controlled by the homeowner, (such as damp carpentry or household cleansers)? If the next step requires a duct cleaning service, consider a company that uses the Rotobrush Air Duct System Cleaning. You will enjoy the fresh scent and the freedom of knowing the air you breathe is healthy and contaminant free.
731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 13
WHY YOUR WHOLE HOUSE needs a dehumidifier by Maxine Reneé
N
ewer two-stage air conditioning systems can certainly help dehumidify a home. There may be times, however, when a whole-house dehumidifier, manufactured by Aprilaire and installed by Comfort Temp is a good investment. Air conditioning systems are designed to control temperature, not humidity. If it’s cool enough outside that you don’t need to run your AC, but it’s damp enough that your home is uncomfortable, you might consider a whole-house dehumidifier. According to Peter Blaha, Product Marketing Manger for Aprilaire, whole home dehumidifiers pull air from every room in your home through the return ducts. They remove the moisture and then send dry air back throughout your home. They work in conjunction with your air conditioner to efficiently balance the humidity levels in your home, but can also work independently on days when you don’t need the air conditioner. He recommends keeping relative humidity levels below 60 percent in your home to keep mold and mildew from growing and to keep that musty smell at bay. “There’s been a growing awareness in Florida for the need to manage humidity in the home,” Blaha notes. “A whole-house system that’s installed and ducted right into your air conditioning system is the way to go. The dehumidifier is installed ‘return to return’ before the AC system and will dehumidify the air for your entire home.” Blaha cautions against purchasing roomsized solutions from big box retailers. “Portable dehumidifiers treat the air in
just one room,” he says. “To properly control health, comfort and preservation throughout your home, you would need to purchase a portable dehumidifier for every room. In this situation, you would consume more electricity than necessary. A more efficient solution is to have a single, whole-home central dehumidifier installed as part of your home’s central heating and cooling system. Aprilaire whole-home dehumidifiers are located out-of-sight and out of your way with quiet operation, hassle-free maintenance and up to four times more energy efficiency than the leading portable dehumidifier. “Our dehumidifiers help by removing excess moisture and reducing the damage that mildew and mold can have on the sustainability of your home and the health of your family,” he continues. “In addition, a whole home dehumidifier like Aprilaire’s Energy Star rated 1730A can help qualify your home for the Green-Built Certification Program of the National Association of Home Builders.” Aprilaire dehumidifiers and other air quality products are available locally through Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. Contact Jackson at 731-424-5848 or for more information and to see if a whole-house dehumidifier is right for you.
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To maintain proper ventilation, and reduce the system’s cooling load, remove clutter in the attic.
DON’T THROW YOUR
Each month replace the indoor unit’s filter, and clean the blower.
money away
W
arm temperatures are around the corner. So is the potential to throw away money. Homeowners may ignore their air conditioning system after winter, but before the real heat returns, they are wise to have an expert inspect their equipment now, and avoid high energy bills later. “Proper care of cooling equipment can keep your unit running efficiently, which saves money and helps avoid costly repairs,” says Barry White, President of Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. “Now is the time to make sure your cooling system will keep you cool without wasting your money.” Cooling systems operate at peak performance when they are clean, without leaks or breakages and fully functional to maximize home comfort. A dirty unit or
negligent maintenance can cause loss of efficiency and lead to permanent damage. Consumers can get a jump start by changing filters, vacuuming debris, strengthening blades, wiping down inside the unit and even washing off the fins, for starters. “A few minor steps are a small price to pay for the high efficiency, which means lower energy bills and improved total comfort,” White says. But, after the light maintenance, the system will need the help of a qualified air conditioning service technician. A reputable contractor checks the system’s refrigerant charge and operating safety controls. A clean system ensures consumers “will get the efficiency they paid for,” adds White. “If you’re system isn’t operating at peak efficiency, all you’re doing is throwing money down a rat hole.”
Clear away leaves and grass clippings or other debris that has fallen near outdoor units; keep brush and shrubbery trimmed, leaving space for continuous air flow.
731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 15
Community Building at the Ballpark at Jackson
by Marge McCarthy
T
he Jackson Generals opened their first season in Jackson, Tennessee in 1998. It’s a small market, but each year the ballpark hosts around 70 home games, and Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning is at every game. Barry White, an avid baseball fan who has been attending games for years, in 2013, he decided to rent a suite for family, friends and customers to enjoy.
The Jackson Generals are the minor league ballclub for the Seattle Mariners and attending a game gives fans a chance to see high profile major league players or rising stars. The intimate setting of the ballpark offers attendees an opportunity to be entertained in a safe environment with many game time activities. The Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning mascot, Jack the Eagle, attends all
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the games, and according to Generals General Manager, Jason Compton, “Jack the Eagle gets photographed as much as our mascot, Sarge,” and with over 135,000 attendees in the 2014 season there are plenty of photo opportunities to go around. “Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning and Barry are great partners of ours. I wish we had more like them. He understands what it means to support the
Generals Generals
“SARGE”
Generals
Generals Generals. We are the smallest market in all of baseball,” Says Compton. Compton started with the Generals as a collage intern in 2000, when he was in college. He was hired on full-time in 2001 in the ticket office and worked in merchandising, group sales, sponsor sales and in 2008 Jason was promoted to Assistant General Manager. In 2012, Compton became the club’s General Manager; he’s the definition of success by working your way up the ladder.
The Generals, like other AA ball clubs rely on attendance and support of the community to survive. Businesses that support the Generals can take advantage of meet and greet opportunities with ballpark attendees and companies like Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. “Barry uses our business model the way it should be used. We want our partners to get as much out of the relationship as we do. Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning
has their logo on souvenir cups and they use the ballpark as an opportunity to thank their employees and customers,” says Compton. The Ballpark at Jackson has seating for 6,000 fans and attending a game is an experience. There is always something going on in every part of the park. They offer opportunities to host events and birthday parties at reasonable costs. Take someone out to the ball game and catch the excitement.
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AFTER A SEVERE STORM take precautions before starting heating & cooling equipment by Jacqueline Cross
A
fter a severe thunderstorm, tornado or hurricane – natural events that frequent Florida’s Gulf coast – homeowners need to take several precautions before attempting to salvage or restart heating and cooling equipment. “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 Barry White, President of Jackson Heating and 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 it’s best to have a qualified service technician inspect your heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm.” Homeowners should not be too eager to get things back to normal after a storm, because improper maintenance and preparation can cause problems years later. To ensure your safety and prevent further damage to equipment, take the following steps after a storm: If the storm caused flooding, don’t start equipment until you are certain there is no water inside any components. If you’re not sure, don’t start it.
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Have a reputable electrician or a technician from the power company or city
inspect your home’s internal and external wiring to make sure they’re dry and safe before you turn on any electrical equipment. the power company gives you approval toIfturn on the electricity in your home, but
you think you may have a problem with your heating or cooling equipment, have the service company disconnect the equipment from the electrical source, and have it properly serviced properly first. If there was flooding, open equipment and get some air circulating inside. This will speed up the drying process.
Double Check:
Are You Prepared for a Strom?
A storm is coming and it could be a big one. What do you do? Before the floods, lightning, and winds start hitting the neighborhood, there are a few basic steps you can take to protect your home and family from danger.
Check the Weather Report – Have things changed? Where is this thing going to hit exactly? Keep your eye on the weather report so that you have all of the facts and know whether or not evacuation is the best course of action. Get Surge Protection – Whole-home surge protection is ideal, but if you don’t have it, at least pick up some surge-protector strips. This will protect much of the home from regular power surges, which are commonplace during big thunder storms.
After a storm, use only reputable service companies to help you get your air conditioner and heater up and running again. “Unscrupulous companies can descend on disaster areas,” Barry says. “Be careful. If necessary, go without service a little longer to make sure you get real value for your money.”
Unplug Your Precious Electronics – You know your extremely expensive video game rig and that 52in plasma TV? You need to unplug them, even if you have surge protection. Large surges may still damage expensive electronics, which could cost you thousands in damages. For those electronics that are close to windows and susceptible to water damage—make doubly sure they’re unplugged. Latch Windows and Doors – This seems obvious, but it needs to be restated. Shudders need to be latched, screen doors need to be shut tight, and windows need to be closed. Water will find a way in wherever it can, and any window or door that can be opened by wind likely will be, if the storm is strong enough. Double check to make sure everything is secure. Stay Away From Glass – If a tree branch comes flying at your window, you don’t want to be there. Sit and stand away from windows, in case the storm gets out of control. If a window breaks, worry about the damage after the storm has stopped raging. For now, the important thing is your safety.
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FURNACE INSPECTIONS
get YOUR “peace of mind” today by Jacqueline Cross
I
n the old days, furnaces were inspected with the human eye and a series of primitive tools that were valuable for diagnosing problems only after they happened. Now, in the new age of cool technology, furnace inspection can be done by expert technicians using advanced cameras and other high-tech gadgets. One such device is a camera called The Inspector™, which allows a company inspecting a heating system to spot potential problems before they happen. “The Inspector camera is similar to technology used by the U.S. military to inspect nuclear warheads and submarine operations,” says Barry White, President of Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. “We use the high-tech equipment to inspect furnaces, heaters and water heaters. It has helped our business grow in a big way.” ‘The Inspector’ is an infrared, highresolution camera mounted on a 37-inch wand that’s
attached to its own display monitor. The camera itself has a high-quality macro lens connected to the base, giving the technician an extreme close-up view of the inner workings of a furnace. “Our technicians are certified and trained to use the camera so they can spot potential failures and safety issues, which is especially important for gas unit operations because of the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning,” says Barry. “Before the camera, the only way to look at a system in such depth required the tearing open of sheet metal plenums. Using the old-fashioned diagnostics, only about 20 percent of the surface of a heat exchanger, for example, was visible by using a flashlight and mirror. With this new technology, we can view deep into a system and make repairs before they become problems.” Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning technicians are Certified Professional Safety Techs who have been trained in best practices for using ‘The Inspector’ to maintain and diagnose system operations. “Our techs look for holes, cracks, rust or corrosion inside a system, and we offer this service at no additional cost to customers. It not only gives the custom-
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ers peace of mind, but we can show customers what we see,” says Barry. “Should our technician find something wrong, you can verify it for yourself. There is no need to take our word for it. We can even record these inspections so customers can review them again, if necessary. With this innovative technology, we have taken away the guesswork, and as a service to all of our customers, we include these inspections with every tune-up and service call.” The camera cannot replace the critical skills and education required to inspect a heating system properly, but the tool helps technicians make recommendations for maintenance and repairs. During a furnace inspection, technicians can often spot potential problems and correct them before having one of those dreaded breakdowns. Regular inspections can save homeowners from expensive emergency repair service calls by finding small problems before they become major ones.
MEETING YOUR RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL NEEDS
DOUG HALE ELECTRIC
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
731-431-5720 douglas.hale@hotmail.com
LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED
731.935.2901
americhoice@eplus.net www.americhoicepromos.com
731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 21
JACKSON & GEOTHERMAL the perfect match by Maxine Reneé
W
hat do the Capitol Building in Boise, Idaho, the Foundation House in New York City and the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehab in Warm Springs, Georgia have in common? They all use geothermal heat pumps, considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to be one of the most efficient heating and cooling systems available. You’ve seen the photos of frosted-headed Japanese macaques chilling and grooming and just hanging out at hot springs in Nagano, Japan. You’ve visited Yellowstone National Park and saw the hot mud bubbling, and Old Faithful spewing. Perhaps you’ve vacationed in Arkansas and luxuriated in a Hot Springs spa. You have experienced geothermal energy, a power generated from natural steam, hot water, hot rocks, or lava in the Earth’s crust. About 20 percent of this energy originates from the original formation of the planet, and 80 percent from radioactive decay of minerals.
How do geothermal systems work in nature? Temperatures at the core–mantle boundary may reach over 7,200 °F, and it flows continuously outward. This flow is estimated to be equivalent to 42 million megawatts. Think: volcanoes, lava . . . Hawaii. However, the heat usually remains below the Earth’s crust, heating nearby rock and water — sometimes to levels as hot as 700°F. When the earth heats the water, hot water or steam can be trapped in permeable and porous rocks under a layer of waterproof rock, and a geothermal reservoir can form. (Here’s where you join the Japanese “snow monkeys.”) However, most hot water stays deep underground, trapped in cracks and porous rock. When did humans begin delving into the beneficial properties of geothermal energy? People from Paleolithic times had used hot springs for bathing, warmth and cleansing. No strangers to water systems, the ancient Romans used hot springs water to feed public bath houses. In 14th century France, in the spa town of ChaudesAigues, people used geother-
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mal water to not only to heat their spas but also to heat their houses. We began to harness geothermal energy for industrial and commercial use by developing power plants. The earliest industrial exploitation began in 1827 with the use of geyser steam to extract boric acid from volcanic mud in a dry steam field in Larderello, Italy. Prince Piero Ginori Conti tested the first geothermal power generator in July 1904, at Larderello, where he built the first geothermal power plant in 1910. The geothermal heat pump came into implementation around the late 1940s, making it feasible to heat the Commonwealth Building in Portland, Oregon in 1946, and the first residential open loop version in Ohio, in 1948. Ten years later, New Zealand produced a geothermal energy plant, the first and only since the Larderello in 1910. Still later, as the oil crisis of 1973 hit worldwide, Sweden implemented geothermal technology as a popular source for energy. Why do we need it? Geothermal energy, originating from the Greek roots γη (ge or geo) meaning earth, and θερμος (therme), meaning hot, has been explored as a resource to provide energy in the U.S. and around the world in various applications.
7 Series
The WaterFurnace 7 Series™ provides homeowners the ultimate in comfort and performance and represents our finest products. This line is for those who accept only the best and is built using the latest technologies and highest standards.
Think about it: Geothermal energy: • Is available everywhere, for community district heating, space heating, spas, industrial processes, desalination and agricultural applications • Is a renewable resource because the heat emanating from the interior of the Earth is essentially limitless and continuous • Is a resource that will never freeze In power plants may release greenhouse gases that are harmful, but can be contained with vents that trap the gases. Therefore, it has the potential to help mitigate global warming, and replace use of fossil fuels • For power plants, is cheap, easy to maintain and cause no unnatural pollutants
• The electricity which powers geothermal heat pumps only collects, concentrates, and delivers heat, not produces it. Compared with other heating and cooling systems, GHPs reduce electricity 30-60 percent.
HOW IT WORKS
A geothermal system uses of series of underground pipes called a “loop,” which are buried between 10-300 feet, where the earth’s temperature remains constant. These loops lay in 100-400 feet trenches, if installed horizontally and if space is available, or vertically, if not. The earth loop eliminates the need for fossil fuels. Also, they can be hidden under a landscaped area, a field or parking lot, etc.
These heat pumps pull heat from the Earth and distribute it through a conventional duct system, or a hot water tank. To cool, the system extracts heat from the building and pumps it into the earth loop, reversing the system. While the cost of drilling and exploration may be expensive, in the long run, geothermal energy will factor in technology, energy prices, subsidies and interest rate decisions, from single housing to industry. Through government assisted research, and industry experience, the cost of generating geothermal power has decreased by 25% over the past two decades. Soon, instead of “a chicken in every pot,” consumers may see geothermal heat pumps heating every home.
People used the minerals in the water as a source of healing. The oldest known hot spring pool was built in China during the 3rd century BC. 731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 23
WHY GET A second opinion by Clair Cameron
I
magine taking your car in for a simple tune-up and having a mechanic tell you that only a new engine can solve your problem. You’d probably be immediately skeptical; after all, a brand new engine is going to cost you a lot more than an oil change, and the mechanic stands to make more money. If you’re wise, at that point you’ll turn around and get your car looked at by someone else before you do anything. Maybe the mechanic isn’t lying, but it’s always good to double check. Unfortunately, unscrupulous characters are everywhere, trying to make an extra buck by selling their customers something they don’t need. From salesmen to mechanics and even air conditioning contractors, it’s good to be cautious. Seeking a second opinion is always the right idea whenever you’re facing a large repair bill. “On more than one occasion, I’ve had customers call us seeking a second opinion because some other air conditioning contractor told them they needed a whole new system,” says Barry White, the President of Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. “We’d head out to look at their system for them, and sure enough all they need is a small repair. It happens more often than you think.” When it comes to air conditioning services, high pressure selling often works. When it’s super hot outside, all a person wants is their air conditioner back on. Secondly,
when a uniformed professional says something, a lot of people take it as fact. But regardless of how much you’re made to sweat, it’s recommended that you remove yourself from the situation and take some time before making a major decision. “Your mother probably always told you to be cautious of strangers, and she’s right,” says Barry. “If our customers want to seek a second opinion about the work we do, I’m not offended. Seeking a second opinion about any major repair is a smart idea. Sadly, there are a lot of bad contractors out there who will do anything to make money.” As a consumer, it’s your job to take all the necessary steps to protect yourself. For starters, make sure you’re only doing business with a company that has a license. Second, spend a little time researching different contractors; ask your friends who they’ve used, and search for reviews online. Not getting ripped-off starts by making sure any organization you do business with is a reputable one. When you call a different contractor to get a second opinion, give them the details of the first company’s diagnosis so they know exactly what to look for. When it comes to providing customers a second opinion, many contractors will offer their expertise free of charge. So, there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t get all of the facts before you open your wallet.
You would probably think twice before making an immediate decision about an expensive proposition such as a new car or medical procedure. A second opinion is the best way to determine if you’re making the right decision. 24 COMFORT ZONE I JACKSONAC.COM
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COOL AIR by Jacqueline Cross
Your home is essentially a Petri dish for dust, dander, mold and micro-organisms. All of these interior invaders use your living space to multiply and spread, and can build up by the minute.
Isn’t Necessarily Good Air
Y
ou can almost say that air quality defines life quality. When indoor air is clean, we sleep and breathe better, and we’re all-around living healthier. Well-maintained and efficient air cleaners can significantly lower the amount of pollutants in the air. Their usefulness varies considerably, depending on the type of cleaner, and on the strength of the indoor pollution source. The acronym MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The MERV rating was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, and is the standard method for comparing the efficiency of an air filter. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at removing particles from the air.
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Why the MERV Rating is Important When you’re purchasing an air conditioner or furnace filter for your home, you want to be sure that you are buying one that’s appropriate for your home and your family’s specific needs. When you or someone in your home suffers from allergies, or respiratory problems, you’ll want to look for a higher MERV rating.
Then again, even if you don’t have allergies or other health concerns, you may just want to get the best filter for your family so that the indoor air quality around your home is the best it can be. Your options include a throwaway fiberglass filter, washable filter, one-inch or five-inch pleated filters. Check the MERV rating on each, and get the details about how various filter type works with your system before you make a purchase.
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2lbs Ground Beef 1-2 Onions Chopped 2 Packs Taco Seasoning 2 Cans Diced Tomatoes 2 Cans Kidney Beans 2 Cans Whole Kernel Corn (Drained) 1 Can Hot Rotel 1 Large Pot
DID SOMEONE SAY
TACO SOUP?
Brown Ground Beef and Onions, Drain Excess Fat and Put the Ground Beef in the Pot Pour in Diced Tomatoes, Kidney Beans, Drained Corn, Rotel and add Taco Seasoning. Stir and let Simmer for about 45 minutes. Serve with Tortilla Chips........Add Shredded Cheese and Sour Cream as desired
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MEET Jack The Eagle J ack the Eagle is here to deliver comfort, health and safety, and complete customer happiness. In addition to providing great tips & tricks on how to save you money, maintain and improve indoor comfort and health with your Jackson system, his goal is to make our customers smile!
Be sure to like him on Facebook and follow him on Twitter so you can get the latest promotions, do-it-yourself tips and tricks, stainability and energy-saving ideas, customer stories, and much more! 731-424-5348 I COMFORT ZONE 29
UNDERSTANDING warranties 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. With greater regularity manufacturers are enforcing the terms and conditions within your paperwork. These changes may affect you. manufacturers allow you to transferMost warranties to the new owner upon the sale of your property for a small fee, and within 30 days of closing.
Manufacturers are now requiring the use of OEM (Original Equipment Manu-
facturer) 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 situation. 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. Jackson never charges for overtime or holiday hours.
Manufacturers now require yearly maintenance by an authorized 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.
We want to thank you for choosing Jackson Heating and Air Conditioning. If you have any questions related to your warranty, please do not hesitate to call us at 731-424-5348. 30 COMFORT ZONE I JACKSONAC.COM
MAINTENANCE & membership One of the best things you can do each year for your furnace and air conditioner is get them tuned-up. Tune-ups not only extend the life of your furnace and air conditioner, but they can save you money on your utility bills. Most of the time, the technician can spot potential problems and correct them before having one of those dreaded breakdowns. That can save you a lot of money! Not only will it save you from paying for a service call, but a lot of times these small fixes that can be done at a tune-up will ward off larger more expensive repairs. We know that everyone is incredibly busy these days and that it is hard to remember to get these tune-ups done regularly, so we have made it as easy as possible for you with our Club Membership. A Club Membership is the way to keep your equipment operating at peak efficiency saving you money for years to come. A system that receives our regular maintenance experiences fewer breakdowns and can save you large repair costs annually. Safety is also a key benefit of a well maintained system. A neglected gas furnace could emit carbon monoxide, a colorless odorless gas that kills many each year. Dirty electrical connections, dirty filters, inoperable safety switches can all lead to trouble. If you don’t join the club to save money and extend the longevity of your equipment, do it for your health and well being!
CLUB MEMBER BENEFITS Two Visits – per year, one in Spring for the air conditioning, and one in Fall for the heating. Priority Service – we put you at the front of the line. Value Rate Prices – on any repair. (up to 20% off) Discount Service Call Rate – If you need us anytime throughout the year, you get a lower rate than non members. Free Reminders – We’ll remind you when to schedule. If this is an emergency, please call us right away at 731-424-5348! If this is something that can wait until the next business day you can Schedule An Appointment online and someone will call you or e-mail you on the next business day to confirm your appointment.
Silver Club Membership
Priority Service $11.95 per month
FREE! FOR 3 MONTHS As a Silver Club Member you are guaranteed: • Appointments in 48 hours • FREE precision tune-up
YOUR COMFORT IS OUR BUSINESS • 20% discount on repairs
731-424-5348
• $19.95 diagnostic service
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Celebrate
SUCCESS
I F YO U ’ R E A N A M E R I C A N S TA N D A R D D E A L E R , CONGRATULATIONS. READERS OF A NATIONAL PRODUCT TESTING AND RESEARCH MAGAZINE RATED AMERICAN S TA N D A R D H E AT I N G & A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G ’ S A I R CONDITIONERS AND HEAT PUMPS AS THE MOST RELIABLE BRAND AMONG LEADING MANUFACTURERS. THIS COMES AFTER RANKING HIGHEST IN OVERALL DEALER SATISFACTION SIX TIMES IN THE LAST EIGHT YEARS. SO CLEAR A LITTLE SPACE IN YOUR TROPHY CASE.
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Celebrate
THE INDOORS
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