R.S. Andrews Comfort Zone 2016

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

PREMIERE EDITION

UNDERSTANDING

warranties

REPAIR OR REPLACE

your air conditioner

Southern

bbq chicken

why your AC needs a check-up rsandrews.com

STORY AFTER STORY,

Our best home air conditioners have the distinction of being variable-speed, multi-stage technology. Lennox速 air conditioners are the most efficient and quietest you can buy.

Having a comfortable home goes way beyond temperature settings. Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. R.S. Andrews gives you the personal touch you expect from your indoor comfort professionals.

WE DELIVER SMILES!

PROUDLY SERVING THE ATLANTA METRO AREA SINCE 1968 (770) 454-1800 rsandrews.com

S ANDREW

IN THIS ISSUE 6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 8 ALL ABOUT R.S. ANDREWS

12 DUCT-FREE MINI-SPLIT

AIR CONDITIONERS OFFER MULTIPLE BENEFITS

14 R.S. ANDREWS’ TEAM RALLIES FOR ONE OF ITS OWN

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16 BREATHE EASY & HEALTHY

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18 THE IMPORTANCE OF

REGULAR CHECK-UPS

20 NINE PLUMBING TIPS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

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22 PROTECT YOURSELF AND

YOUR EQUIPMENT DURING AND AFTER A STORM

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24 WHAT TO EXPECT

WHEN YOU CALL R.S. ANDREWS

26 SOUTHERN BBQ

CHICKEN RECIPE

28 ‘LIFE CHANGING’

MISSION AT ATLANTA CHILDREN’S SHELTER

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(770) 454-1800 rsandrews.com

STORY AFTER STORY, WE DELIVER SMILES! © 2016 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 R.S. Andrews. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 770-454-1800.

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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30 FURNACE INSPECTIONS

GET YOUR PEACE OF MIND TODAY

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WHICH WATER HEATER IS BEST FOR YOU?

34 AIR CONDITIONER:

REPAIR OR REPLACE?

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36 ARE YOUR ELECTRICAL PANELS TOO OLD?

38 WHEN PIPES LEAK 40 MEET THE TEAM 42

COOL AIR ISN’T NECESSARILY GOOD AIR

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44 YOU CAN’T CONTROL SUMMER

TEMPERATURES BUT YOU CAN CONTROL YOUR ENERGY COST$

46 UNDERSTANDING WARRANTIES 47 THE SMILEY ADVANTAGE CLUB

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

40 “Rob called back, even though it was after hours, and he was wonderful. Every one was TERRIFIC, cannot thank you enough.”

-L. Olson

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE We are humbled and honored to be recipients of these accolades, which are not gratuitous; they are awarded for superior service and customer satisfaction. I believe firmly that integrity is not a commodity.

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elcome to R. S. Andrews’ premiere edition of Comfort Zone magazine, which I hope you’ll find both engaging and informative. While focusing primarily on the many services R.S. Andrews offers, you’ll also find helpful tips on how best to maintain the critically important heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing systems in your home. And you’ll also learn about the important and often life-saving work of two civic agencies R. S. Andrews’ supports – Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Atlanta Children’s Shelter–which we hope you’ll consider supporting if you’re able. (Read more about them on pages 14-15 and 28-29, respectively). The magazine also includes what we think is a fun story about our mascot Smiley, and a pretty tasty BBQ chicken recipe. And a lot more.

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I also want to take this opportunity to share with you what we at R. S. Andrews believe is our most important job, to offer products and services that improve a homeowner’s quality of life. Let’s face it, a problem with any of your home systems— heating and cooling, or your plumbing or electrical—can be a real headache, so our job is to come in and make it right. And my promise to customers, new and established, is that when you call R. S. Andrews, you’ll receive prompt and courteous attention and we’ll do the best job, done right the first time.

And if there’s ever an issue, we’ll always make it right.

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Our commitment to customer service is paramount. We are dedicated to providing top quality services and total home comfort for our customers. You will have peace of mind when R. S. Andrews is doing the work because we stand behind everything we do. We have a 100 percent guarantee on our work; our skilled and certified technicians take great pride in what they do to make your home comfortable and safe. And R. S. Andrews’ managers are always accessible for customers whenever a question or concern arises. We are here for our customers.

Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has been the Atlanta area’s premier total home comfort product and service provider offering a full gamut of products and services to meet every one of your heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, indoor air quality and duct cleaning needs. With family-friendly values and a commitment to exemplary service, R.S. Andrews continues the tradition of excellence that has named us a Consumer Choice Award Winners 10 years in a row and the coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award. We are humbled and honored to be recipients of these accolades, which are not gratuitous; they are awarded for superior service and customer satisfaction. I believe firmly that integrity is not a commodity.

Again, I hope you enjoy our Comfort Zone magazine and remember, R. S. Andrews is dedicated to helping improve homeowners’ quality of life with our products, services and by providing exemplary customer service each and every day.

Sincerly,

Dari Payrow, President, R.S. Andrews

INTRODUCING HONEYWELL’S LYRIC™ THERMOSTAT

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PROUDLY SERVING THE ATLANTA METRO AREA SINCE 1968

(770) 454-1800 rsandrews.com

S ANDREW

by Ellyn Santiago

ABOUT ALL R.S.ANDREWS For the past 50 years, R. S. Andrews has built a reputation of excellence. Grounded in family ownership, R.S. Andrews offers the types of customer service that help clients feel like they’re part of the family.

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. S. Andrews’ road didn’t begin with its loveable mascot Smiley, but as company president Dari Payrow says, he is a symbol of what has made the company exceptional.

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“Perhaps no other member of our team embodies the culture, pride and dedication we all strive to exhibit on a daily basis better than our very own Smiley,” Dari says. “Sure, our motto is ‘Story after Story,

COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

We Deliver Smiles.’ And that’s the truth.

Our team does work tirelessly to brighten the day for many of our clients experiencing issues with their HVAC, plumbing or electrical systems. But beyond that, we feel a great sense of pride about what we do, and are grateful for the opportunities we have to assist our friends in the greater Atlanta area.”

For the past 50 years, R. S. Andrews has built a reputation of excellence. Grounded in family ownership, R.S. Andrews offers the types of customer service that help clients feel like they’re part of the family.

And it is, after all, a family company. Dari works alongside co-owner and brotherin-law Ben Kendrick. Both Dari and Ben married former owner Jack Dowling’s daughters. Talk about keeping the business a family-run one.

“R.S. Andrews is absolutely about family because as dedicated as we are to our own families, so too are we committed to the company and our customers,” says Ben, who has been with the company for nearly 14 years. And as a third-generation Master Plumber, Ben knows the industry and the community very well. Ben says the level of

devotion to the company, the community and the industry is what sets R. S. Andrews apart. And Dari agrees.

“Our quality of service and the expertise of our techs is what really sets us apart from other HVAC, plumbing and electrical companies in this area,” Dari says. “We have the longevity, but perhaps more importantly, the loyalty of our team. Our employees and customers have been with us for 20 to 30 years or more.”

Dari continues: “The same strict hiring practices used for our technicians are employed for every plumbing team member as well and we believe our team to be the ‘Cream of the Crop.’ When it comes to technical know-how and a dedication to customer service, our plumbing team members rise to the top in the industry.

They know that the trust you place in

them should never be taken for granted, and they work toward earning that trust during every service call. Each technician is a licensed plumber, and of course goes through R.S. Andrews’ exhaustive preemployment screening including background and drug testing. The plumbing team at R.S. Andrews believes in doing the job right, the first time. And doing so

R.S. Andrews employs more than 80 individuals, including, according to Payrow, some of the best HVAC, plumbing and electrical service technicians in the business.

“This is possible because of our strict hiring practices and commitment to customer care,” he says. “All of our technicians are North American Technician Excellence [NATE] certified and undergo rigorous pre-employment screening and ongoing training.”

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE

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with professionalism, respect, class and accountability is their goal.”

Among the myriad of services offered by R.S. Andrews is duct-cleaning and air quality evaluations. These services, Ben believes, are a “very important element” of his company’s service offerings because, as indicated by the Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside the average home is up to five times more polluted than the air outside.

“If you don’t clean the air inside your home and provide the proper filtration, bad air recirculates viruses, bacteria and other harmful pollutants,” Ben says. “In addition, a crawl space with an older duct system that is cracked or leaks can allow for bacterial and fungal growth to get sucked into the duct system.”

R.S. Andrews is National Air Duct Cleaners Association-certified, a credential that Payrow and his team are very proud of.

clients through personal attention and caring for customers’ safety. It has won the company numerous accolades for outstanding service and technical expertise.

“Duct cleaning is a service we introduced a few years ago,” Dari explains. “Our equipment can pull 4,000 cubic feet per minute through duct systems. A HEPA filtration system then cleans the air at 99.97 percent before recirculation back into the home.”

And, R.S. Andrews is a proud supporter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Atlanta Children’s Shelter. (Please see the stories in this issue on pages 14-15 and 28-29, respectively).

Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has been building a network of longstanding, satisfied

“We are a company that cares deeply about our community, our customers and our em-

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ployees and the reason we come to work every day—to help improve homeowners’ quality of life with our products, services, provide the best-possible customer care and service, treat our employees with respect and care for our community,” Dari says. “And we are honored and privileged to be able to do just that every single day.”

For more information or to schedule a whole-house evaluation, duct cleaning, plumbing or HVAC services, call 770-4541800 or visit RSAndrews.com.

“We are a company that cares deeply about our community, our customers and our employees and the reason we come to work every day—to help improve homeowners’ quality of life with our products, services, provide the best-possible customer care and service, treat our employees with respect and care for our community.”

VENDOR AD

by Maxine Reneé

DUCT-FREE mini-split

AIR CONDITIONERS offer multiple BENEFITS 12 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

“Brad was a pleasure to have. He was very thoughtful of all my needs and concerns and took the time to answer all my questions.” -R. Turner

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uctless mini-split HVAC systems 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 R.S. Andrews are installing them in multifamily housing, renovations of older single-family homes, as well as business server rooms,

“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. ” 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.

cost savings, energy savings and flexibility in locating the system for cosmetic concerns and sound control as well as logistical applications.

“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.”

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 condition-

ers, 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,” Dari 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.”

Dari encourages home and business owners building new, remodeling, or for certain applications due to confined spaces or above garages, 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.”

Duct-free systems, as the name implies, have no duct work and consist of an outdoor condenser and an indoor airhandling 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.

Dari Payrow, president of R.S. Andrews, noted that the main advantages of ductfree systems are ease of installation, (770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 13

R.S. ANDREWS’ TEAM Rallies for One of its Own

by Suzi Harkola

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hen Jackson Kendrick was born, parents Ben and Stacy were overwhelmed with joy. He had all his fingers and toes, was cuddly and warm, soft and oh-so-sweet. As he approached his second birthday, Stacy noticed some changes in his behavior. The diagnosis was Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), often called Juvenile Diabetes because of its prevalence in children, although adults can develop it, too. Now in kindergarten, Jackson has learned to manage his disease.

“Jackson is on a regular insulin schedule, and uses an insulin pump,” says Stacy.

“His glucose is checked eight times a day, and the pump helps him keep on track, although it does limit his ability to do certain ‘boy’ things like visit a friend’s house for a sleep-over, play rough-and-tumble sports and provide the freedom to just be himself. But it’s a lifesaving therapy, and for that we are very thankful.” She notes, however, that until a cure is found, Jackson and thousands of other children and adults will battle this disease for a lifetime. “Diabetes occurs when the pancreas can no longer produce insulin. It requires constant carbohydrate counting, bloodglucose testing and lifelong dependence on injected insulin,” she explains. “We are watching carefully the research and early development of the artificial pancreas, as we think and hope that might be a solution in the very near future.”

me. When we realized the implications of Jackson’s illness, we were quick to jump in and help. For example, recently we donated $10,000 toward the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Walk for a cure.”

Payrow continues, “The courage this little guy has shown is just amazing. He has taken responsibility, has learned about the disease, has shared the information with his classmates and friends, and has risen above the physical and emotional restrictions that can occur. We are so proud of him.”

With T1D there are no days off, and there is no cure. That’s why JDRF holds

Jackson has become an Ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), helping with fund- and awarenessraising within the Atlanta community. He and his entire family, as well as R.S. Andrews’ staff, participate in the Walks, and R.S. Andrews is a major sponsor.

“We’re a tight-knit company,” says R.S. Andrews’ president Dari Payrow. “When one of our own needs help, we are there.

And we couldn’t get much closer to home than with Jackson. Ben is my partner in the company. Stacy is Jack Dowling’s daughter, and Jackson is a nephew of my wife and 14 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

more than 200 Walks across the country every year to raise money for JDRF—the only global organization with a strategic research plan to end T1D. Each year, JDRF Walks bring together more than 900,000 people who raise more than $68 million for critical T1D research. This success is only possible because of the support, commitment and strength of our community.

For more information about the community outreach efforts of R.S. Andrews, call 770-454-1800 or visit RSAndrews.com.

For more information and how to donate to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, visit JDRF.org.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF TYPE 1 DIABETES The signs and symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes in children usually develop quickly, over a very short period of weeks. Look for: • Increased thirst and frequent urination. As excess sugar builds up in your child’s bloodstream, fluid is pulled from the tissues. This may leave your child thirsty. As a result, your child may drink – and urinate – more than usual.

• Extreme hunger. Without enough insulin to move sugar into your child’s cells, your child’s muscles and organs become energy-depleted. This triggers intense hunger.

• Weight loss. Despite eating more than usual to relieve hunger, your child may lose weight — sometimes rapidly. Without the energy sugar supplies, muscle tissues and fat stores simply shrink.

Unexplained weight loss is often the first sign to be noticed.

• Fatigue. If your child’s cells are deprived of sugar, he or she may become tired and lethargic.

• Irritability or unusual behavior.

Children with undianosed type 1 diabetes may suddenly seem moody or irritable.

• Blurred vision. If your child’s blood sugar is too high, fluid may be pulled from the lenses of your child’s eyes.

This may affect your child’s ability to focus clearly.

The key to T1D control is a careful balance between food, exercise, and insulin. It’s a juggling act to keep blood glucose levels within the target range. Therefore, people with T1D should stick to scheduled blood sugar checks, insulin injections and snack times. Even small departures from a diabetes care plan can cause blood glucose levels to rise or fall.

JDRF is the leading global organization funding T1D research

Call or visit with one of our licensed professionals for a

Before you decide, talk to the Good Hands® people.

Now that you’ve moved into your new home, what’s next? Perhaps a new addition to the family. Or a new car or boat. Perhaps retirement. Talk to us soon about affordable insurance from Allstate to help meet the current and upcoming needs of your life.

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Protection Review (770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 15

BREATHE EASY & HEALTHILY

with Professionally Cleaned Air Ducts

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he quality of the air we breathe indoors has become an increasingly important environmental concern especially since, according to the American Lung Association, we spend the vast majority of our time indoors. And since a number of health illnesses are either exacerbated or caused by indoor air pollutants, which the Environmental Protection Agency says, can be five times greater indoors than out, it’s a major worry for many.

In two out of three cases of indoor air contaminants, the culprit is the home’s heating and cooling systems.

by Ellyn Santiago

Air ducts are your home’s respiratory system, so keeping them clean is critical to you and your family’s overall health.

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Dust, dirt, pollen, animal dander and other airborne contaminants are pulled into your air duct system every time the furnace or air conditioner runs. These contaminants build up inside the ductwork over time and can help make your air duct system an ideal breeding ground for mold spores, bacteria, fungus, mildew and other microbes. Each time the furnace or air conditioner is turned on,

Dust, dirt, pollen, animal dander and other airborne contaminants are pulled into your air duct system every time the furnace or air conditioner runs. contaminants are spewed out and circulated throughout your home and affect the health and comfort of your family or anyone that suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory ailments, as well as children and the elderly, are especially vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollutants.

The removal of contaminants from the entire HVAC system is recognized by industry experts as the most effective way to eliminate air duct pollutants. This is referred to as the “source removal” method of duct cleaning. In addition to the obvious health benefits, duct cleaning can help you maintain a cleaner home. It also helps restore HVAC system capacity and lessen running time, resulting in lower heating and cooling bills.

The air ducts, which are known as the ‘lungs’ of your house, circulate the air, cooled or heated, and respiratory irritants come along for the ride. So for the millions who suffer with asthma and other respiratory ailments, the fungi, dust, mold and bacteria that collects in those ducts can

make an indoor environment unhealthy, even deadly. When ducts become contaminated and congested, it should be cleaned so it can breathe normally and efficiently.

Replacing the filters to your HVAC systems helps reduce some of these problems, but it doesn’t fully address the issue. Duct cleaning is an absolute necessity to improve indoor air quality. Thorough duct cleaning is a very important component in an overall plan to improve indoor air quality. When an HVAC system is clean it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures, and clean, efficient systems have a longer life span—they are less likely to break down.

R. S. Andrews is a NADCA-certified duct cleaning professional. The HEPA-AIRE method we use assures you that your ducts are being cleaned with the most advanced source removal equipment available.

“We are committed to the health and well-being of your family and your total home comfort,” says Dari Payrow, president of R. S. Andrew. “As highly trained professionals, we will do an exemplary and complete job of cleaning your ducts so you can breathe easy.”

If you can answer yes to any of these questions, it’s time to have your air duct system professionally cleaned: anyone in your house have  Does allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems?

 Is there a smoker in your house?  Do you have dogs, cats or other pets? you notice “musty” or “stale”  Do odors when the furnace or air conditioner runs?

you notice dust on your furniture  Do shortly after cleaning? it seem like there is not enough  Does air flow coming from your vents? your furnace equipped only with a  Isstandard throw-away fiberglass filter?

“The technician was very thorough and patient in answering numerous questions. I really appreciate the info given to help me understand my hvac system.” -H. Fisher

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 17

“As always your company’s technicians are always professional, knowledgeable, courteous and efficient.” -J. White

THE IMPORTANCE OF

REgular check-ups

by Ellyn Santiago

“Our technicians estimate that 82% of the repairs they see may have been eliminated or reduced by a regular tune-up program.” - R. S. Andrews President Dari Payrow

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outine and regular car maintenance is a given—oil changes, tune-ups, and the like. Your cars is a big investment and let’s face it, for most of us, it’s something you can hardly live without.

Your home heating and cooling units are the same—a big investment and something you cannot live without. So routine and regular maintenance is a given, right?

In the event you need some convincing: Your air conditioner is one of the hardest working appliances in your home. At least once a year, it’s important to give the system a full inspection and tune-up,

to assure that it’s running smoothly when you need it most. And since Georgia’s climate tends to remain warm for a good portion of the year, air conditioners get a lot of use. So filters will become dirty, coils can become caked with dust, blockages may develop, and system leaks may become worse. 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

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problem that you allow to spiral downward, a major repair could be in your future. The cost of an a/c repair – or worse, a full system replacement – is almost certainly going to be more expensive than a maintenance appointment.

Your furnace needs an annual check-up, too. It’s called preventative maintenance for a good reason: who needs a furnace that stops working on a night when the Fahrenheit dips below freezing, which is not uncommon in Atlanta. A proper inspection and tune-up not only helps maintain your equipment, but an inspection will ensure your furnace is operating

safely so it will not pump deadly carbon monoxide into your home.

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, according to Dari Payrow, president of R. S. Andrews Air Conditioning Heating and Plumbing.

R. S. Andrews Air Conditioning Heating and Plumbing offers the Smiley Advantage Club where customers can save money and gain peace of mind with a twice-annual complete system maintenance and myriad perks for far less than

a costly repair of an improperly maintained system, which often comes at the worst possible time given Murphy’s Law. “Our technicians estimate that 82% of the repairs they see may have been eliminated or reduced by a regular tune-up program. Changing your air filters monthly is a step in the right direction, but it just isn’t enough,” says Dari.

Of course, maintaining your system is in your best interest, but it also might be a requirement of your equip-

ment’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 Dari. “We recommend AC maintenance in the spring to get ready for the summer, and furnace maintenance in the fall to prepare for winter.

Our annual maintenance contract, the Smiley Advantage Club, offers coverage for both at one low price.”

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NINE PLUMBING TIPS every homeowner should know

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Dishwashers and Washing Machines

It may be a wise idea to run your dishwasher and washing machines at night or while you’re busy with other things. This helps conserve energy year- round. Remember to keep these machines clean – remove any debris from filters and drains.

Water Quality

Have your water tested for any imperfections, and always filter your water before you drink it. Most homes would also benefit from a complete water purification and softener system. These remove hard minerals and filter out unwanted additives.

Garbage Disposals

First, turn on the water and then the disposal before you add food, and watch what you throw in there. Avoid bones and other difficult-to-grind foods that could damage your unit. After use, continue to run water in order to flush food particles down the line.

Outdoor Water Flow

Keep your gutters clean and free of debris.

If your property contains a drainage ditch, remember to keep it mowed and remove any tree branches or other items that could potentially block the flow of water.

Drains

Never pour any cooking oil, grease or fat down the drain. Avoid and remove any hair or food that may be blocking the flow of water. After doing dishes, let the water run for a minute to assure that any grease and debris is washed away.

Toilets

Never flush paper towels, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products or any foreign debris not intended for drains down the toilet. Make sure to check to see that your tank refills and flushes properly. If you notice any clogs or slow draining, call R. S. Andrews.

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Valves

Turn your valves on and off from time-to-time to prevent them from sticking. Make sure to know the location of your home’s main valve to ensure that it’s in good working condition.

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Water Heater

To prevent burns, keep your water heater turned to a safe temperature. If your water heater more than 10 years old, consider a replacement. It’s likely burning too much energy and if it ends up failing, a repair could end up costing you big. A heater older than 10 years may leak so to prevent damage in your home, consider a replacement.

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Pressure

It is important that a quality technician tests your home’s water pressure. The maximum pressure is 80 psi; any higher psi can cause damage to plumbing fixtures including faucets and toilets.

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more hot water

peace

of mind

Honeywell Thermostatic Mixing Valves Provide Increased Protection And Comfort For Your Family

Health

Mixing Valves Help To Prevent Bacteria Growth

Honeywell mixing valves are designed to prevent the growth of bacteria by allowing you to set your water heater at 140° F.

When a water heater’s temperature is set too low, deadly Legionella bacteria can grow.

The growth of Legionella is reduced when the water is heated to 140° F1. A Honeywell mixing valve allows you to set your water heater at a higher temperature to kill bacteria while eliminating concerns about water being too hot at the tap.

Safety

Mixing Valves Help To Prevent Scalding*

Mixing valves also help prevent burns and injuries due to scalding. As the chart below shows, burns from hot water can occur in just seconds — even less for small children.

A mixing valve reduces the temperature at either the water heater or the faucet, so your family can use the sink, shower or tub without fear of scalding.

Comfort

Enjoy More Available Hot Water

The demands of today’s busy families can often be a strain on the hot water supply.

But not with a Honeywell mixing valve. By raising the stored water temperature to 140˚ F or higher, less hot water is required to mix with the cold water to reach a comfortable temperature. So the last person in the shower is less likely to come out shivering.

GET THE PEACE OF MIND THAT COMES FROM IMPROVED SAFTEY, HEALTH AND COMFORT.

The mixing action of a Honeywell mixing valve — it’s like adding a larger water heater without taking up the space.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR EQUIPMENT

During and After a Storm

by Nate Freyburger

D

uring and after a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or any storm that brings with it water, winds or 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.

“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 Dari Payrow, President of R.S. Andrews.

“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.”

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 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 into your equipment, do not operate the equipment until it can be inspected by a service technician, as this can damage equipment and be potentially dangerous.

• 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.

• High winds can leave debris behind.

Remove any tree branches or foreign debris from A/C and heat pump units before operating them.

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.

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.

22 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

“The AC went out Friday night. We called at 6 am Saturday.

Our repair was completed by 9:45. Excellent response and service.� -L. Bailey

R.S. Andrews offers whole-home surge arrestors that can help protect the home from power surges during storms.

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 23

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN “It’s a great day here at R. S. Andrews!

How can I make you smile?”

“I would like a free estimate on getting a new air conditioner”

“I need maintenance/service on my home” (Maintenance agreement customers receive priority scheduling)

We will verify name, address and schedule appointment

24 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

Our tech gets dispatched to your home (Reduced diagnostic charge for maintenance agreement customers)

YOU CALL RS ANDREWS Unit is installed

(We pride ourselves on clean installation)

Final inspection is passed

Our Comfort Advisor provides you with good, better, best offer and schedules installation date.

Your technician will diagnose your problem. Provide up front pricing and coordinate the repair.

Equipment is registered and warrantied with manufacturer.

(770) 454-1800 RSANDREWS.COM

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 25

S ANDREW

SOUTHERN

bbq Chicken “Slow-grilling over indirect heat keeps this chicken moist and tender.

Giving the drumsticks a long rub with seasonings makes them taste great.

Always baste at the end of grilling to prevent the legs from burning.�

INGREDIENTS

Original recipe makes 5 servings 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 large cloves of garlic, chopped 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 10 chicken drumsticks 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 3/4 cup ketchup 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

15 min prep 55 min cook 1.Mash brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper together in a mortar and pestle to form a paste. Spoon paste into a resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken, coat with the paste, squeeze out excess air, and seal the bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for 8 hours to overnight.

2.Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir onion in hot oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir ketchup, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce into onions; bring to a simmer and cook until flavors blend, about 10 minutes.

3.Preheat grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Remove chicken from bag and discard marinade.

4.Cook chicken on the preheated grill until lightly browned on all sides, about 1 minute per side.

5.Turn off one of the grill burners or move the coals and move chicken so there is no heat source directly below it.

6.Baste drumsticks with the sauce and cook another 10 minutes; turn again and baste the chicken with the sauce. Continue to cook drumsticks until juices run clear, 10 to 15 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

26 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

AVAILABLE IN SINGLE AND DOUBLE ELEMENT MODELS, THESE WATER HEATERS GIVE YOU THE POWER YOU NEED TO HEAT WATER WITH ELECTRICITY.

www.bradfordwhite.com

by Ellyn Santiago

‘LIFE-CHANGING’

Mission at Atlanta , Children s Shelter E

stablished 30 years ago by members of the Junior League of Atlanta, the Atlanta Children’s Shelter (ACS) has provided a central childcare location for the city’s homeless families to bring their children while parents looked for work and ways to provide shelter for their families. Ten years later, it began to not only grow but to re-think and expand its model to be “more responsive” to the growing number of families forced to live on Atlanta streets. According to the Shelter’s website, on any given morning in Atlanta, there are more than 2,500 homeless children. It’s their mission to provide a safe haven for those children.

bounce back platform,” says Atlanta Children’s Shelter Development Director Barry L. Hundley.

“The work we do is life changing. We are helping to give those who have lost their solid foundation a sense of stability and a

Atlanta Children’s Shelter has professional childcare workers, social workers and volunteers providing child care, after-

An Atlanta church donated a building to be the Shelter’s home and over the decades, as Atlanta’s homeless population swelled, so too has the Shelter grown.

Since its beginning it has served more than 8,000 homeless children from more than 5,000 families.

“The clients who come through ACS know that we are going to be there with them through every twist and turn life throws at them.” Barry says.

28 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

school care, daily hot meals, well-child checks, immunizations, primary care referrals, educational opportunities designed specifically to address the needs of homeless kids, and case management and employment counseling and job assistance services for parents.

“We are there to nurture, educate, and love their children.

So they can focus on getting the family to a better place.”

“We are there to nurture, educate, and love their children. So they can focus on getting the family to a better place. We are there to teach, motivate, guide, uplift, be a sounding board for them so they can mentally get themselves back into the work force,” Barry says.

“Finally once they have a sense of financial soundness we assist them with obtaining a permanent place to stay that they can call home. Once our families get to that point we don’t desert them. We are with them for the next year making sure they are comfortable with their new found stability.

We do house visits, help with budgeting, provide credit counseling where needed and are there for small financial assistance if the need arises. The work we do takes a holistic approach to moving our clients from homelessness to stability.”

But the Atlanta Children’s Shelter could not do the life-changing work it does without partners.

“Our partners are our lifeline,” Barry says. “We try to keep our federal and state funding to a minimum because they usually come with stipulations as to how the funds can be used. We want to be able to meet our families where there need is greatest. Our mission is weakened if our clients need A, B and C but the funding says it has to be used for E, F and G. Also because of our holistic approach we can’t do everything that is needed in house. So we go to those people who are already experts at providing the services needed, whether it is play therapy, medical needs, improving resume and interviewing skills or obtaining one’s GED. Our in kind sponsorships allow us to expand and increase every dollar received.”

effort to help save the lives of children in Atlanta; keeping them safe, healthy and with a roof over their heads.

“We are just honored to be part of helping the Shelter and we’re humbled by its staff of mostly volunteers that have dedicated their lives to helping Atlanta’s homeless children,” Dari says. “We are Atlanta. We’ve been in business here for decades and it’s our community so any way we can help the families of our city, we’re committed to doing that.

One of those partners is R. S. Andrews.

During the recent ACS holiday week of celebrations, Smiley, the R. S. Andrews mascot, was on hand as were a number of employee volunteers. Dari Payrow, company president, says the Atlanta Children’s Shelter is an important group for the company to support. He says he not only believes in its mission, but has seen that work firsthand and wants to be part of the (770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 29

“The Inspector camera is similar to technology used by the U.S. military to inspect nuclear warheads and submarine operations,” says Dari Payrow, President R.S. Andrews. “We use the high-tech equipment to inspect furnaces, heaters and water heaters. It has helped our business grow in a big way.”

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 tools. 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 Dari Payrow, President of R.S. Andrews. “We use this 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, high-resolution 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 Dari. “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 locate hidden problems.”

R.S. Andrews’ technicians are certified professional safety techs who have been trained in the best practices for using The InspectorTM to maintain and diagnose

30 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

system operations. “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 customers peace of mind, but we can show customers what we see,” says Dari.

“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.

Barnett is a proud supplier of Kohler products.

WHICH WATER HEATER

Is Best For You ?

Conventional water heaters run on gas. The gas heats a storage tank full of water, which it then flows where it’s needed. A tankless water heater can have a gas or propane or electric heating device, but they only heat water on demand—there is no tank or water storage system. Meaning, when you turn on your tap for hot water, that’s when the system begins heating, and it shuts off as soon as it’s done being used.

Tankless Water Heaters

These come in several varieties. Some units are small, designed to work in part of a home or to be used in an outdoor extension, like a pool-house. Other tankless heaters are whole-house systems, powerful enough to provide hot water for your entire home and replace your old hot water tank forever.

You may be thinking that it takes a while for the water to heat up, or that the water coming out of your tap won’t be as hot as you like. However, those assumptions are incorrect. Tankless heaters use state-of-the-art technology to heat your water to an optimal level very quickly, and they will continue heating until you turn your tap off.

There is some delay before the water is heated, but the amount of water wasted is typically less than a gallon.

Over the years, the efficiency of tankless heaters has improved greatly.

32 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

by Clair Cameron Overall, tankless water heaters (also called on-demand water heaters) are designed to save you money on energy bills. Since there is no tank being constantly filled and heated up, there’s no wasted energy. A tankless system does not use energy until you tell it to, and it doesn’t continue to burn energy throughout the day, since there’s no tank that cools off. They also don’t require a ton of power to operate, meaning that a system will eventually pay for itself in terms of money saved on utility bills.

Tankless systems can last for decades, and are typically easy to repair. Smaller units can even be mounted on walls, making them perfect for condominiums.

Early versions were not recommended for very large homes, but modern systems come in a variety of sizes and can heat just about anything no matter the size, in your home or business. In other words, it’s a near guarantee that there’s a tankless water heating system to fit your needs.

Gone are the days where all homes have a conventional gas water heater.

For all water heating needs, there are now a variety of options for you to choose from. Before you choose a new water heater, take a look at some of the options that are available.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters use electricity to heat a water tank. Unlike gas systems, they require very little upkeep and are relatively cheap to install.

The only drawback is that they take longer to heat the tank than a conventional gas water heater. They do not recover quickly when the hot water tank cools off or is depleted and, unlike tankless systems, electric water heaters don’t heat water on demand.

Still, because they are convenient and easy to maintain, many consumers discover that an electric water heater is ideal for their home, especially if they don’t thave access to natural gas or propane.

Gas Water Heaters

Solar Heaters

They also require a significant amount of attention—pilot lights can go out and gas units don’t generally last as long as their electric counterparts. Still, they heat water relatively quickly and, depending on where you live, they may be cheaper to run than an electric tank-based system.

The result is energy-efficient hot water that doesn’t release CO2 into the atmosphere. The downside of a solar water heater is that it cannot be your only source for hot water, since it’s so dependent upon the weather outside.

This is the classic American staple for water heating. They use gas to heat a water tank and while their energy efficiency has improved, the basic technology hasn’t changed in decades. The advantage of gas water heaters is that they heat water relatively quickly and are fairly cheap to operate since they don’t burn alot of gas. However, since they are reheating a tank of water whenever it cools down or is used up, they consume more energy than a tankless system.

Another energy-saving alternative to consider is a solar-powered water heater. These come in several varieties. Solar units begin with a solar collector; which collects the heat of the sun and converts it into useable energy. The hot water tank is either attached to the collector directly or water moves through tubes which are heated by the collector. Sometimes heating the water involves electric pumps, other times convection and gravity do all of the work.

“Rob was courteous and did his job efficiently. As always, we are pleased with all the technicians.” -F. Schieber

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 33

“Rob was courteous and did his job efficiently. As always we are pleased with all the technicians.� -F. Schieber

AIR CONDITIONER: Repair or Replace ?

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 AC accumulates wear and tear every day from casual use.

There is a good chance that installing a new AC 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. If you are having trouble with your AC, R.S. Andrews, serving the greater Atlanta metro area, is here to help. Here are some tips to help you figure out what the future of your air conditioner is.

Cost Difference Between AC Repair and AC Replacement The first thing that you are going to want to look into is what the difference in cost is between having your current AC 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.

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 AC though, the

34 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

Repair vs Replace Quiz Time to Repair or Replace Your Faulty HVAC Unit?

1. Age of your unit? 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 air conditioning repaire or replacement.

Get Rid of Faulty Systems If your AC has done nothing but give you problems since it was installed, it could save you future headaches by just junking your constantly failing AC 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.

Energy Star Efficiency

a. 1-7 b. 8-12

2. How much have you spent on your unit in the past year? a. Under $600 b. Over $600

3. Are your energy bills increasing each month? a. Yes b. No

4. Do you regularly maintain? a. Yes b. No

5. Does your home have humidity problems? a. Yes b. No

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 to receive a FREE quote. 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 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 Based on the information you provided, your HVAC 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?

When choosing a new AC unit, look for the Energy Star seal. Which means the model meets or exceeds guidelines that the Environmental Protection Agency sets for energy efficiency. Please call R.S. Andrews with any questions that you may have about repairing or replacing your AC. We provide free quotes for AC system replacement.

6. Are some rooms in your home often too cold or to hot?

7. Is your HVAC unit unusually noisy?

TIP: New units can have up to a 25 SEER efficiency rating, reducing monthly costs significantly.

You can expect outstanding customer service that will exceed your expectations when you choose R.S. Andrews. We will send our highly qualified technician to your home to inspect the issues you are having with your air conditioning unit.

8. Does your home have excessive dust?

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

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

a. Yes b. No

a. Yes b. No

a. Yes b. No

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 35

ARE YOUR ELECTRICAL PANELS ?

TOO OLD M

ost homes were constructed decades ago, which means they may not be equipped to handle modern electricity demands. Older homes sometimes possess less than half of the electrical service capacity of modern homes, which means they aren’t designed to handle the computers, televisions, and other electronic equipment that most of us own today.

Electrical panels are put in place to protect your home from power surges, overcurrent, and short circuits. When issues such as these happen, panels can overheat and possibly start fires. This can occur even if they appear to be working properly.

by Clair Cameron

burn out. If the electricity demand exceeds what the circuit provides, this could lead to wires burning up and the electrical panel severely overheating. And if for example, your lights begin to dim when you turn on your AC, call R. S. Andrews to inspect for safety concerns.

Ideally, when a circuit is overloaded, the breaker would trip and cut off power.

However, due to aging and wear, some older panels may fail to trip and instead overload themselves with excess electrical current. Simply put, older panels were never designed with today’s electricity demands in mind.

Nothing lasts forever, and electricians and home inspectors have found that as many as 60% of one brand of panels, Federal Pacific, fail.

Please check with your individual insurance provider on details about policy coverage.

Something as simple as having too many electrical devices plugged into one room is all it takes to make a breaker pop, sizzle, and then

Your home is at higher risk for fires and other incidents that could severely damage your electrical systems without a properly functioning panel. Even if your panel’s old circuit breaker clicks off the way it should, your home is at a serious disadvantage when it comes to its electrical capacity. Old breakers may shut off just from normal usage.

Without a properly working panel, your home’s

electronics may not function. Your panel is the central hub for all of your home’s electricity, and without it your home will not have any power. Even if your panel isn’t putting your home at risk for damage, you should have one that works properly.

The best way to make sure your panel is safe and functioning properly is to have a professional electrician check it out. R. S. Andrews recommends that you have your home’s electrical system inspected annually, at which time an electrician will examine your panel for any potential flaws and/or age-related concerns.

If it does turn out that your electrical panel is out-of-date or dangerous, you should replace it immediately. For every day you continue to use a panel that isn’t equipped to handle modern electricity demands, you’re putting your entire home at increased risk for serious damage.

For more information about electrical panel upgrade and repair options, visit rsandrews.com.

36 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

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Coast to Coast Bloomberg – The First Word This Morning, America’s First News Glenn Beck The Sully Show

2pm – 5pm 5pm – 6pm 6pm – 8pm 8pm – 10pm 10pm – Mid

640wgst.com

Dave Ramsey TrustDale Michael Berry Todd Schnitt Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis

“R.S. Andrews has great technicians. Their work is on time and very professional.” -H. Rich

WHEN PIPES LEAK

by Nate Freyburger

TOILET

Toilets do a lot of work every day, and as a result they are one of the most common places you’ll find a leak.

Something as simple as a toilet tank with a flapper that doesn’t close all the way can cost a small fortune over time, wasting thousands of gallons of water in as little as a month. Times are tough and money is tight, so any wasted water is too much. And if you’re someone whose home uses a well, that leaky toilet equals higher power bills.

T

he first sign that you may have a water leak is a bill that’s higher than normal. Water leaks can occur anywhere, and they may not always be easy to find. If you notice water flowing where it shouldn’t be or your water bills mysteriously rising, it may be time to call a plumber. The cause of a leak may be hard to determine, and fixing the issue may not be as simple as a patch job. Here are some common areas in your home where leaks may sprout and how you can help identify them.

Luckily, toilet leaks are easy to identify and are typically accompanied by the noise of running water. If you notice yourself having to jiggle the handle to stop your tank from filling, flush multiple times, or if you’re

38 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

hearing running water when you shouldn’t, it’s time to get your toilet fixed before your monthly bills take a hit.

SHOWERHEAD AND FAUCET

cost you a fortune. If you notice yourself having to over tighten the faucet in order to stop the dripping, it isn’t working the way it should.

When you turn your faucet off, the water should stop flowing, right? Well, sometimes water continues to drip out of the faucet even after you’re done using it. If it drips for a few moments, there may not be a problem. But if your faucet continues to leak long after you’ve closed the line, it’s time to fix it.

Faucet and showerhead leaks are typically easy to detect and fix during a routine plumbing maintenance call. Normal use of faucets and showers can cause these issues over time, but it’s still good to solve them early if you’re interested in saving water and money.

Showers and sinks that leak even tiny amounts of water can, over time,

Waterline leaks are those that occur wherever water flows – in pipes behind walls, under the floorboards, and underground. If you notice a pipe leaking or mysterious water flowing from your wall or floorboards, that’s a sign of a problem.

However, most line leaks won’t be that easy to spot. Detecting leaks in unseen pipes isn’t easy, and will require an experienced professional to properly identify.

WATERLINE

Leaks in pipes that aren’t easily visible may require the use of specialized equipment for detecting leaks. If a leak is found, the pipes will need to be uncovered or bypassed in order to be repaired.

There may be symptoms of hidden line leaks that you can see (i.e. flooding in your yard), but many times the only indication that there’s a problem will

come from higher water bills. It’s also a wise idea to pay attention to your water pressure; a sudden or gradual change in water pressure can also be an indication that things aren’t flowing so well or that you have a leak.

Because of the complex and insidious nature of waterline leaks, a professional plumber is the only person who should be trusted to diagnose and solve these problems. Repairing and replacing damaged pipes inside your walls and under the surface isn’t a doit-yourself task, since you could end up making mistakes that will cost you a fortune. Always hire a professional.

Pay attention to what the water in your home is telling you. Keep an eye on your utility bills and water pressure, and keep your ears open for any strange noises. Be diligent when it comes to your plumbing, since water can cause major damage over time.

The best way to stop leaks is to seal them before they happen. Annual plumbing maintenance is recommended so that problems can be solved before the first drip.

For more information about plumbing leak detection, head to the R.S. Andrews’ website at rsandrews.com.

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 39

S ANDREW

MEET THE TEAM

Dari Payrow

Owner & President

Five words you can count on from Dari – Caring, Honest, Dedicated, Passionate and Fun! Dari loves spending time with his wife, Lisa, and their daughter, Brynn. He enjoys hanging out with family and friends, trying new restaurants, playing basketball and golf, and attending sporting events

Ralph Brooke

Operations Manager & Commercial Services Ralph is honest, dependable, truly cares about employees, and strives to provide excellent customer service. Ralph enjoys spending time with his family and five grandchildren, working around the house, golfing, sports and travel.

Ben Kendrick

Andrew Navarro

Ben is a third generation Master Plumber. He enjoys discovering local history in the form of metal detecting. He also enjoys golfing and fishing. Ben loves spending time with his wife, Stacy, and two children, Jackson and Lilly Belle.

He is actively involved in Fundraising for a Cure and raising awareness through several charities that benefit Type 1 diabetes research.

Andrew and his daughter, Jessica, are die-hard outdoorsmen who love catching fish from the giant tarpon of south Florida to bull redfish of Louisiana. Along with their passion for fishing, they enjoy hiking, hunting, archery, and relichunting. Andrew is extremely passionate about HVAC and continuous education.

Owner & General Manager

40 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

HVAC Manager

Khadija “Kady” Wilson

HR Manager/Staff Accountant

STORY AFTER STORY, WE DELIVER SMILES!

Kady is a native of New York and migrated to Atlanta during the Olympic boom in 1996.

She is a devoted mother of three sons, Bryce 15, Kobe 14, and Roman 10. She recently enrolled in the Keller Graduate School of Management. When she’s not studying, she spends her time cheering from the stands or field during her son’s basketball or football games. Her greatest passion is to life coach “greatness” into youth, one child at a time.

Tamara James

Customer Care Manager

Brad Luckey

Plumbing Manager

Tamara is dedicated, professional, caring, and fun. She loves spending quality time with her family. She enjoys sports, reading books, hanging out with her friends and watching old movies.

Brad enjoys spending time with his wife Rebecca and two boys Landon and Jackson.

He loves to be outdoors. He enjoys sporting events, friends and family, and woodworking.

Cassandra “Cassie” Monach Matt Mihalek

Electrical Manager

Matt has been in the electrical field since 1996.

He greatly enjoys seeing his electrical work bring joy to customer’s lives. His family, faith, and career are the top three things important in his life. He enjoys reading, theater, movies, and the outdoors. He is driven to make a positive impact to everyone around him, and does his best to help others to succeed. Success is not based upon your income, but your heart, he says.

Inventory Manager

Cassie is loyal, genuine, reliable and just down-to-earth. She is family-oriented and loves spending time with her only son, family and friends. She loves to talk sports, play spades and other house games. She also enjoys traveling to new places, dancing and sporting events.

Terrence Gantt

Installation Manager

Terrence has been in HVAC industry for 16 years. His leadership and communication skills have transformed R.S. Andrews’ Installation Department. He enjoys football, traveling, spending time with family, friends and his two Rottweilers, Max and Mercy.

Thomas Kitchens

Duct Cleaning Manager

Thomas has two girls and one boy whom he loves dearly! He enjoys spending time with his family, boating, fishing, camping and cooking with the kids. He also enjoys coaching their intramural sports teams.

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 41

COOL AIR ISN’T NECESSARILY GOOD AIR

by Jacqueline Cross

Your home is essentially a Petri dish for dust, dander, bacterial growth and micro-organisms. All of these interior invaders use your living space to multiply and spread, and can build up by the minute.

Hospital Quality Air Cleaning

97% Air Cleaning

Better Equipment Protection

Some Equipment Protection

Typical “Store Bought” Filters

Exceeds MERV 16

MERV 13 - 16 Air Cleaning

MERV 9 - 12 Filtration

MERV 5 - 8 Filtration

MERV 1 - 4 Filtration

Air Cleaning IEST Standards

Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology

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 AirConditioning 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.

Why is the MERV rating 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.

The higher the MERV rating, the cleaner the air!

Airborne Particles Removed 99.97%

97%

4%

42 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

Less Than 2%

Less Than 1%

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 in 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 types work with your system before you make a purchase.

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YOU CAN’T CONTROL SUMMER TEMPERATURES

But You Can Control

44 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

Your Energy Cost$ $

ONE STEP TO CONTROL ENERGY COSTS IS TO SCHEDULE ANNUAL MAINTENANCE CHECKS TO MAKE SURE YOUR UNIT IS RUNNING EFFICIENTLY.

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,” says Dari Payrow, president of R. S. Andrews.

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 performance and can damage the system. You play a vital role in making sure your cooling system continues to operate at peak efficiency.

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 while conserving resources. When selecting an air conditioner or heat pump, pay close attention to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. This is a measure of cooling efficiency for air conditioners; the higher the SEER number, the higher the savings. The minimum SEER rating is 14.

ZONING

Zoning divides your home into separate comfort areas which are heated or cooled based on your needs. Doing this can drastically lower your energy 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.

PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS

Programmable 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 your house to an energy-saving temperature in order to avoid unnecessary heating and cooling.

ATTIC INSULATION

Increasing the efficiency or R-rating of your attic insulation can prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Choosing a better-rated insulation brand will save on energy costs.

“R.S. Andrews delivered excellent customer service and they were friendly.” -G. Glassbrooke

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 45

S ANDREW

UNDERSTANDING

Warranties

46 COMFORT ZONE I RSANDREWS.COM

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.

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

• Most manufacturers allow you to transfer 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 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 situation. The effect is that we will no longer be able to use generic truckstock parts.

Although these changes are difficult, we make it our priority to bring you comfort as quickly as possible.

• Manufacturers only cover work that’s performed during normal business hours. Smiley Advantage Club members never are charged for over time or holidays hours.

We want to thank you for choosing R.S. Andrews. If you have any questions related to your warranty, please do not hesitate to call us at 770-454-1800.

THE SMILEY ADVANTAGE CLUB Much like you maintaining your car, it pays to keep your home’s Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, and HVAC systems in peak operating condition. Our technicians estimate that 82% of the repairs they see may have been eliminated or reduced by a regular tune-up program.

Changing your air filters monthly is a step in the right direction, but it just isn’t enough. Modern HVAC systems have an advanced electronic system which requires cleaning and inspection from the inside out to ensure that every piece is properly calibrated and running efficiently - a task best left to a trained professional.

YOU CAN ENSURE THE PROTECTION OF YOUR HOME AND FAMILY AND RECEIVE THESE INCREDIBLE BENEFITS BY BECOMING A VALUED SMILEY ADVANTAGE PLAN MEMBER: SAVE MONEY • Up to 20% off repairs • Reduced service fee • Twice annual system maintenance with duct inspection included • Monthly payment plans available.

• Special club member benefits for plumbing, electrical, duct

cleaning and HVAC services.

• Exclusive discounts on emergency services

SAVE TIME • VIP Service • We take care of calling you - you don’t have to remember to

call us to schedule your tune up!

• Move to the front of the line every time you call • Special services • Free project consultation

PEACE OF MIND • Keeps your family safe and comfortable all year round • 100% satisfaction guaranteed • Guaranteed service for club members within 48 hours • Save money on your utility bills • Keeps your systems in peak operating condition • Reduces breakdowns • Priority scheduling

(770) 454-1800 I COMFORT ZONE 47

TOP 5

THINGS YOUR AC WANTS YOU TO KNOW

1

Water can cause your condenser to rust and wear out more quickly.

Avoid having your sprinkler spray on your unit in order to reduce the risk of corrosion.

2

3

A system with varying speed options can conserve energy.

Reducing your system’s output during milder weather will save you money on energy bills.

Remove debris, trim grass and tear out any bushes that restrict airflow. This will improve the efficiency of your system and reduce the risk of it overheating.

4

5

An AC unit that is not tuned-up or is in poor condition can mean an increase in power consumption and 30% or more higher energy bills.

A programmable thermostat gives you better control over output. When your unit is only on when it has to be, you’re going to see smaller energy bills.

PROUDLY SERVING THE ATLANTA METRO AREA SINCE 1968

(770) 454-1800 rsandrews.com