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“WHY CHOOSE MY COMPANIES?” Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Scott Vigue President,
Scott’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
“IF YOU ARE NOT 100% SATISFIED WITH MY COMPANIES AFTER TALKING TO A MANAGER CALL THIS THIRD PARTY ORGANIZATION. UWIN HAS THE AUTHORITY TO MOVE HEAVEN AND EARTH TO SATISFY MY CUSTOMERS!”
YOU CAN’T LOSE! GUARANTEED! THE UWIN GUARANTY DOING BUSINESS WITH A U•WIN ENDORSED CONTRACTOR PROMISES: Background Tested, Drug Tested and Trained properly The contractor has signed the U·WIN Code of Ethics. The U·WIN contractor has current Liability and Workers Compensation Insurance The contractor is licensed to work in the state they are doing business within.
1-877-UWIN 877655uwin.com
CONTENTS
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20
12 6 greetings by Scott Vigue journey: 8 scott’s from independence to franchise by Clair Cameron
cool: don’t get caught sweating 12 stay with your thermostat down by Jacqueline Cross
germs with uv radiation 14 kill by Nathan Freyberger
16 what to expect when you call your ac needs a check up 18 why by Clair Cameron with children’s 20 partnering miracle network by Garrett Chilson
air quaility: a treat for you 22 good and your pets by Jacqueline Cross
© 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 Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 866-930-2751. 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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28
24
protect yourself & your equipment during & after a storm by Nate Freyberger
26
spreading the word
28
family recipe: peanut butter cheesecake layered brownies
30
what are protection plans?
plan: scotts one hour 31 protection air 32 understanding warranties 33 meet the team
RECIPE INSIDE!
by Nathan Freyberger
866-930-2751 Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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GREETINGS This is our premiere issue of Comfort Zone Magazine, a publication written to give you detailed information about our history, our civic involvement within the community, and to help you get the most from your air conditioning and plumbing services. We hope you leave this magazine more comfortable in choosing Scott’s One Hour Air and Ben Franklin Plumbing. This magazine is just one more way for us to personalize our service, giving you a better idea of who we are and what we’re all about.
GREETINGS Scott Vigue President,
Scott’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
I
started this company in 1989 as Scott Vigue Plumbing, offering only plumbing services to big commercial new construction at that time. This company has grown steadily since then, expanding into air conditioning, and altering our business model to offer residential services. Today, our plumbing and air conditioning services are offered under the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air franchises, which has allowed us to grow at a more rapid pace while improving the way we serve our customers.
Without our customers, Scott’s One Hour and Ben Franklin Plumbing would never have enjoyed over two decades of growth and expansion. Because of customers like you, I am able to provide for my family and offer quality jobs to people in the community. I hope as this company continues to grow, we will only get better at serving the needs of you and your family.
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Scott’s One Hour and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are known for quick, reliable service at a fair price. Our service technicians will arrive on time or you don’t pay anything – guaranteed. Our screening process for new employees is intense, with 34 out of 35 applicants being denied a position. I developed this 17-step interview process because I only want to hire the best people. I want you to feel comfortable letting our service techs into your home, and I only hire technicians who I would feel safe having in mine. I would never provide my customers with products or services that I myself wouldn’t be comfortable receiving. On behalf of everyone at Scott’s One Hour Air and Ben Franklin Plumbing, I want to thank you for your business and for taking the time to read our magazine. I hope to earn your trust through continued quality service, and I welcome any feedback you may have. From my family to yours, thank you for choosing Scott’s.
Sincerly,
Scott Vigue President
seven
THINGS TO 1
RELIABILITY
A newer system is far less likely to break down and won’t leave you with as many large repair bills. However, make sure you know the full warranty details before you buy.
2
When it’s time to replace your home comfort system, it’s important to consider what a newer system can offer. Here are seven items to consider when purchasing an HVAC system
LOOK FOR 3
QUIET OPERATION
Newer systems may run quieter than your old one. Check the specifications for the full details.
5
Choose a thermostat that’ll control humidity, and make sure you find a system that will help reduce unwanted moisture.
6
EFFICIENCY
A new ENERGY STAR system can help you save up to 30% on bills every month. Newer models are just more energy efficient, which will translate into savings. Check to make sure you’re getting the system that’ll save you the most.
4
7
BALANCED HUMIDITY
CONSISTENT TEMPERATURES Even with the precision of a programmable thermostat, some older systems aren’t going to produce consistent results. Look for an HVAC system that has controls in place to help balance the temperature throughout the home.
PROPER AIRFLOW
Your best bet is to choose a variable speed model, so that you have more control over when your system runs. This will not only improve heating and cooling, but it’ll save you money on energy bills.
IN A HOME COMFORT SYSTEM
HEALTHY AIR
Will your new system help reduce unwanted pollutants in the home? Get all of the details. If not, consider adding UV cleaners or some other air purifier to get the most out of your purchase.
FREE
ir In Home A g System Conditionin nsultation. Design Co R REDUCE YOU L ELECTRIC BIL
NOW!
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OURSTORY
Serving the community 25+ years!
Scott’s Journey:
From Independence to Franchisee by Clair Cameron
Over 150,000 Happy Customers!
I
n March of 2015, Scott Vigue, the owner of Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, celebrated 26 years of being in business. Today, Scott’s businesses are part of larger franchise organizations, and his companies offer a range of air conditioning, heating and plumbing services to residential customers all over the Tampa Bay area. But when the company was first founded, things were quite different. “It all started March, 9th 1989. We were called Scott Vigue Plumbing, and we were just doing plumbing. We were 8
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
actually just mainly into big commercial and new construction at the time,” says Scott. “And right around, I believe, about 1994, we had changed the name to Scott’s Plumbing, and we started serving residential customers. We were in mainly commercial new construction for the first five years of our existence.” During that time, Scott began expanding his company. He changed the name of his business again, this time to Scott’s Services, and his rapidly growing company began offering air conditioning services to residential customers, while still continuing their plumbing operation. OneHourAirFlorida.com
With his primary focus now on servicing homes, Scott joined the Contractors’ Success Group, a trade organization that gives contractors a network of support and contacts. Little did Scott know that his relationship with Contractors’ Success Group would lead to dramatic changes in the way he did business. It would also later be the starting point for moving Scott’s into the One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin franchises. “[Contractors’ Success Group] was a group of about 700 members – likeminded members – that, what we did is, we shared different operating philosophies
and marketing ideas in the business of plumbing service and air conditioning service,” says Scott. “We joined this group, and it totally changed the whole model of our company. We got out of the new construction business totally after we joined this group. They helped us along to become a retail company and a residential customer-oriented business. We stayed with them, and started growing the business in both plumbing and air conditioning residential service.” In 1997, Contractors’ Success Group went public and was sold off. Scott was not part of the public sale, and his relationship with the consulting firm came to an end. But it wasn’t long before new opportunities for continued support arose. “Two years later, the original owners of Contractors’ Success Group started a new consulting firm called Plumbers’ Success International, and another called AirTime 500—an air conditioning consulting group, and so I joined [both organizations]. They continued to help us build our business and improve the way we marketed our services.” Over the years, Scott had developed a personal relationship with the owners of these consulting firms, Jim Abrams and John Young. Crediting them for helping him to build a successful company, Scott stuck with Abrams and Young when they decided to turn their trade or-
ganization into franchise opportunities. In 2005, Plumbers Success International morphed into the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air franchises, transforming the consulting firm into fullservice business opportunities. Scott quickly followed along, splitting Scott’s Services and transitioning its plumbing operation over to a Ben Franklin franchise. A year later, Scott’s Services was dissolved entirely when the One Hour Air franchise was adopted for the company’s air conditioning wing. Although transitioning to a franchise operation was expensive and rather complicated, Scott made the decision to do so for a couple of reasons: “We could serve our customers better, and we could serve our employees better,” he says. “We could serve our customers better because, being with such a large entity, it meant we had more buying power in the market. So, we could buy equipment and supplies (at a better rate), therefore giving our customers a better deal on their plumbing and air conditioning services. “(Transitioning to the franchise) also helped our employees greatly. Now being part of a large entity, we could bring better benefits to them; we could bring a career path to them, give them an opportunity to move up into a franchise. So, joining the franchise business really benefitted them.”
The franchise also offered Scott and his family some security: “If something were to happen to me, if I were to die or get incapacitated, the businesses would be tied to the franchise, and my wife would have plenty of help,” says Scott. “So, a big factor when I switched to the franchise was my family.” Transforming Scott’s Services into two franchises was initially confusing to the company’s established customer base. However, ultimately the re-branding alleviated confusions a lot of people had about what types of services Scott’s Services offered. “That’s why we separated the plumbing and the air conditioning – instead of calling it Scott’s Services, that really doesn’t say much – Ok, services what, you know?,” Scott says. “One Hour Air said something – we service air conditioners, and we’re quick about it. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing – they’re The Punctual Plumber; that’s an existing plumbing services brand.” Since adopting the franchise business models, Scott’s company has grown at a rapid pace. In 2005 when the transition started, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing made over $5 million in sales. Today, they are doing around $20 million in sales annually between the two companies, and Scott thinks the franchise brands are largely to thank for that. PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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OURSTORY
“We’ve tripled our sales. We’ve grown 300% since joining the franchise,” he says. “We have a nationwide recognizable brand. In terms of marketing, we have other franchises in the area we partner with, and so it made it very powerful; we’ve had tremendous growth.” During the crash of the credit markets in 2008, contractors took a big hit. Many laid off workers and cut back on services. Some even closed their doors entirely. Since people were losing their jobs and homes, contractors that serviced residential customers were feeling the effects. However, unlike many of their competitors, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing were surprisingly not affected by the bad economy. “We continued to grow at a pace of 20 – 25% on each company respectively. We just kept on marching; [the crash] didn’t affect us one bit. As a matter of fact, business got better,” says Scott. “We actually increased our marketing budget by more than 40% in ’08 when the crash happened … we never saw an economic turndown with our business.” 10 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
Certainly being part of larger franchise brands played a part in shielding Scott’s from the economic downturn. However, even when his company was completely independent, Scott never once saw a loss in profits or any sort of decline in growth. “We’ve never had a year, in the 25 years I’ve been in business, where we have gone backwards. We have never not grown. In 25 years, our sales have always increased—for 25 consecutive years, and in this business that’s pretty tough—extremely tough,” Scott says. Presently, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing provide jobs to more than 90 people and has over 60 trucks on the road on any given day. Still, the company plans to continue to grow rapidly. Next year, Scott hopes to open up new locations and expand into new service areas. “In the next year, we’re going to be moving to open up satellite offices, which is going to open up opportunities for some of our employees to move into management,” he says. “Instead of operating out of OneHourAirFlorida.com
one location, which is becoming increasingly difficult, these satellite offices will allow us to localize our brands in the areas we service. We’ll be able to service our customers quicker by being local, and it’ll also give us an opportunity to increase our visibility.” As Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing continue to expand, new opportunities will arise for the company’s employees to turn their jobs into lifelong careers. More than that, Scott’s customers will receive services at a cheaper rate. Although Scott Vigue is happy with his company’s $20 million in annual sales, he’d like to see that number to continue to grow. “We’d like to be north of probably 30 million in sales. Our goal eventually is to hit the 40 – 50 million in sales with the company in the next ten years. We have an ambitious plan to move the company forward, and that’s what we’re going to do,” he says.
FINANCINGOPTIONS
Put your mind at ease... Easy Pay Financing Options It is important to us that we provide the best financing available to our customers. Since we are the largest home services provider in North America we have access to many different financing options that will suit almost every ones needs. We have everything such as: ► Low monthly payments with as low as 6.90% APR ► Deferred Interest From 6-18 Months ► 0% APR Options Available
IF WE CANNOT GET YOU FINANCED THEN NOBODY CAN! Put your mind at ease with One Hour Air Conditioning & Benjamin Franklin Plumbing’s easy pay options. (Financing options may change at any time.)
For More Information Call
866-930-2751
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
PROTIP
F
olks up north know how to “winterize” their homes, however, here in the sunny south, we sometimes forget that it’s just as important to “summer-ize” our homes. Between pools and air conditioning summer produces the highest demand of the year for energy in Florida. Making sure your air conditioning system is operating at its most efficient level is imperative if you do not want to see those electric bills skyrocket like the Space Shuttle blasting off from Cape Canaveral! We suggest testing your system while it’s still cool enough so if you have a problem, you can address it before things heat up. Turn your unit on and check the air temperature at your return and one of your supply ducts. You should measure an 18 degree difference from your supply to your return. It’s easily measured with a simple thermometer. Hold the thermometer as close to the source of each as possible to insure the most accurate reading. If the difference is at least 18 degrees you’re good to go, if not, you might have a problem. That’s probably a good time to call a professional! Another simple yet productive step to take is to check your filter. Clean it if it is the type that can be cleaned, or replace it if not.
STAYCOOL
DON’T GET CAUGHT SWEATING WITH YOUR THERMOSTAT DOWN by Jacqueline Cross
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Check the batteries in your thermostat (if it has batteries). This is a good time to replace them. By the way, this is also a good time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors (not AC related; I just threw that one in for free). Next, take a walk outside and look at your condenser. If it’s excessively dirty or there is mold on it, wash it off. Also, make sure if you have shrubs surrounding it that they are not inhibiting airflow. If they are, grab a trimmer and clip away!
Winter gets COLD, but Summer is HOT, HOT, HOT! When it’s time to think about turning off the heat and crankin’ down the AC there are some things you should do to make sure your system is ready to take on the brutal heat of a Florida summer.
For those who are a bit more ambitious, you can clean your drain line. It is usually near your outside wall and is about 6 inches tall and looks like an upside down hook. To clean it, attach a shop vac hose to the end of the plastic pipe and turn on the shop vac to vacuum out all of the dirty water that’s been sitting in the line for months. You can get more aggressive by removing the panel at your air handler and pouring a cup of vinegar followed by a gallon or two of hot water into your drain pan, then repeat the shop vac step. Make sure you turn the electricity off to the unit before removing the panel! Not doing so could create a whole new batch of problems that would require the summoning of medical professionals as well as AC professionals! Now if you’re not quite that ambitious, but you want to be ready when things heat up, just call Scott’s One Hour to come out and service your unit for you. We’ll clean it, inspect it, and make sure everything is working as it should be.
PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT
Equipped with a large, fullcolor display that’s easy to read, allowing you to accurately make adjustments from anywhere in the home. Control temperature and humidity levels from this single control, which can be automatically programmed to your specifications. Best of all, it could save you up to 30% annually on energy bills. And unlike other thermostats, there are no complex buttons or unnecessary hidden compartments.
866-930-2751 Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
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PROTIP
KILL GERMS WITH by Nathan Freyburger 14 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
OneHourAirFlorida.com
ISN’T AN AIR FILTER ENOUGH? Filters are successful at trapping large particles, such as pollen, dust and even dust mites. However, most germs are small enough to pass through a filter, even if you use expensive high-efficiency ones. UV lights pick up the slack, helping to kill any additional virus, bacteria and mold that aren’t stopped by your air filter. There are a variety of UV light systems available. Whether you’re looking for a simple device to be used on a single air conditioning unit or you’re interested in a whole-home system designed to keep all the air in your home clean, there’s guaranteed to be a system out there that will benefit you. Compare prices and brands to make sure you get a UV cleaner that will help you breathe easier than ever before.
Call for details. Not Valid with any other offer. Expires 12/31/2017
OneHourAirFlorida.com
866-930-2751
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
UV LIGHTING
Air cleaners emit UV-C radiation, which does not have a wavelength long enough to penetrate the skin. So, while UV air cleaners are powerful enough to irradiate germs into extinction, they will not harm you or your family.
Benefits of Scott’s One Hour Air’s ultraviolet light air cleaners are: • Improvements in heating and cooling system efficiency • Money saved due to improved efficiency • Indoor air quality improvements • Reduction in energy consumption • Reduction in equipment maintenance • Foul odor elimination
Ultraviolet light is the radiation from sunlight. And while ultraviolet radiation in significant doses can cause serious health problems, including cancer, the air-cleaning lights used in HVAC systems are not harmful to humans.
ON UV LIGHTING
Installing a UV light can reduce the accumulation of germs, cleaning the air in your home and improving the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. These devices work by using ultraviolet radiation to kill germs as they coast through your
ARE THESE SAFE TO USE?
$89
In particular, these microorganisms can attach themselves to your system’s evaporator coil, forming a disgusting film of collected germ matter. This film will also collect any dust and dirt that may flow through your system, impairing airflow and reducing its energy efficiency. If your evaporator coil is dirty, your system has to work harder, which translates to higher energy bills.
UV light air cleaners come in a variety of sizes. Some are small, designed to be attached to a one-room air conditioning unit. Other lights are more powerful; these are placed inside your central air system, working to kill germs throughout the entire home.
ULTRAVIOLET GERMICIDAL
Your air conditioning and heating system is a breeding ground for germs, since it’s warm and moist inside. All air in your home travels through your HVAC system. In the process, your system collects germs such as mold, bacteria and virus, which are then blown back out through the vents and dispersed everywhere— and this is only after they’ve had time to multiply. Allowing these germs to run amok inside your air conditioner can lead to serious health concerns, especially if you don’t clean your system as often as you should.
system, assuring that far fewer unwanted microorganisms make it out alive.
SAVE
U
ltraviolet (UV) lights are inexpensive germicidal devices that help to improve the air quality of your home. Installed inside an HVAC system, UV lights kill pathogens that can cause disease and aggravate your allergies. They also work to prevent the growth of new germs, and they may even help reduce your risk for developing mold around the house, since they kill microorganisms that encourage mold growth.
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What to Expect “It's a terrific day at Scott’s One Hour/Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, How may I help you?”
“I need maintenance/service on my home” (Service and Maintence Customers receive Priority Scheduling)
We will verify name, address and schedule appointment
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OneHourAirFlorida.com
“I would like a free estimate on getting a new air conditioner”
Tech gets dispatched to your home (Reduced diagnostic charge for Service and Maintenance Customers)
u C o all Y n e h W
Comfort Advisor provides you with good, better, best offer and schedules installation date
Unit is installed (we pride ourselves on clean installation) Final inspection is passed
Equipment is registered and warrantied with Manufacturer.
Diagnosis made, check for price and availability (you will receive a detailed service report regarding the condition of your unit,(no hidden fees)
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Call 866-930-2751
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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PROTIP
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.
WHY YOUR A /C NEEDS A CHECK-UP by Clair Cameron
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 A/C system a full inspection and tuneup, to assure that it’s running smoothly when you need it most. 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/C 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
$29 18 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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 energy-efficient 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. 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. Remember, no machine is designed to work forever. Your A/C system needs to be taken care of properly, and doing so could expand its lifespan well beyond the years the manufacturer ever intended.
AIR CONDITIONER TUNE UP. (REG. $184 ) 77 POINT INSPECTION
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Partnering With
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals by Garrett Chilson
F
ounded in 1983, the nonprofit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised over $4.7 billion for children’s hospitals internationally. The money they raise is sent to over 170 hospitals in the United States and Canada, where it’s used to buy equipment, pay for direct care and fund valuable research that leads to new advancements which have saved the lives of countless children. The Children’s Miracle Network believes that the hospitals who care for patients know best how to allocate money for medical services; sometimes funds are used to cover care expenses for children from low-income families, other times the money is used to help a children’s hospital expand and grow. Healthcare institutions that partner with the Children’s Miracle Network receive a new patient every second. These hospitals are everywhere, and chances are good that you have one near you. One of the charity’s primary goals is to make sure that local kids—based on local needs—are the ones who benefit from donations. Meaning, when you donate to the Children’s Miracle Network at a local business, there’s a decent chance that the money you donate will go directly to your local children’s hospital.
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In terms of its charitable rating, the Children’s Miracle Network scores a high ranking with the Better Business Bureau and Charity Navigator, two organizations which rate non-profits based on factors such as financial spending and transparency. Each has given the Children’s Miracle Network a perfect score, reporting that over 89% of money raised went directly to their program expenses. The Children’s Miracle network began in 1983 as a telethon hosted by celebrity entertainer Marie Osmond at her family’s television studio. That telethon raised an initial $4.8 million for 22 children’s hospitals, and led to the founding of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals non-profit. To this day, the annual telethon, called A Celebration of Real Miracles, is an invaluable source of funds. Held every weekend in June, the event raises millions for the charity. In 2013 alone, the annual telethon brought in over $4 million in donations. Events such as these are only one way for the Children’s Miracle Network to raise money. The non-profit also teams up with a variety of corporate partners, developing clever ways to drive in charitable funds—typically $1 at a time. Sometimes this is done by having a business ask their customers OneHourAirFlorida.com
for a donation directly, which usually results in the donor’s name being written on a balloon and taped to the business’s wall. Other companies have worked out deals where certain purchases equal dollars donated. Relationships such as these are mutually beneficial, since they encourage sales for a business while also raising money for worthy charitable causes. The One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchises has joined the list of corporate partners that help children all over the United States and Canada get the best possible healthcare. Scott’s One Hour and Ben Franklin Plumbing will be making regular contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network, and they will also be collecting donations from their customers. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals benefit the lives of an extraordinary number of children every year. Their commitment to low overhead costs means that more money reaches the local kids who need it most. Without generous donors and the hard work of its corporate partners, the Children’s Miracle Network wouldn’t be able to touch as many lives as they do today. Thanks to children’s charities that benefit local hospitals, many children can now grow up to live a full, happy life.
For more information on how you can help Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, please visit their website at ChildrensMiracleNetworkHospitals.org.
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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PROTIP
GOOD AIR QUAILITY a treat for you and your pets By Jaqueline Cross
“My UV light from Scott’s One Hour Air helps to minimize the amount of dust and allergens in my house. I take comfort in knowing that my family and pets can now breath easier.” — Linda B.
Y
ou might not realize this, but your home is essentially a Petri dish for dust, dander, mold, and micro-organisms. Dust mites, mold, and fungi all use your living space to multiply and spread, and pollen and dander builds up by the minute. There is no retreat from the facts of life, but these facts do not have to intimidate and worry you; they are just part of the cycle of life, and their presence can be reduced (and sometimes even entirely prevented) through the use of modern technology, and an up-to-date main22 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
tenance plan of your air conditioning/ heating equipment. “Air Quality affects quality of life – if you have a buildup of particles in your air, you can expect to lose sleep, have difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and sometimes worse,“ says Scott Wood, Service Manager of Scott’s One Hour. “Humidity and things like leaks in your ducts can bring in outside particles like pollen and dust, and those things add up over time – if you don’t maintain your systems, the air you breathe inside OneHourAirFlorida.com
your house might be filled with more pollution than the air you breathe outside! Pets have an enormous impact on your indoor air quality too – dogs, cats, birds, anything living in your house will impact your air quality.’’ Your dog is not intentionally trying to harm you, and your parrot probably doesn’t realize it is slowing smothering you with particles from its feathers and skin, so it’s up to the humans living in a house to create a safe place for their families (pets included!).
Scott says, “People can still have pets and have good air quality, but there is always going to be an ongoing issue with dander with most pets. There are some breeds of dog, like poodles and labradoodles, who don’t produce the allergens that most people find irritating in dander – and there are some cats now too with the same lack of allergens in their dander. There are several options for people who love animals and who are sensitive to dander too. Pet owners who are proactive and want to prevent as much dander,
allergens, hair, and dust as possible in their homes can make several changes to their routine to improve their indoor air quality. Some of these changes even have the added bonus of improving the quality of life for your pet, giving you a chance to bond with them while you do. “Brush your animals regularly, and you will see a dramatic improvement in your air quality,” Scott says. “People don’t always notice the hair and dander their pet’s shed because it quickly turns into dust and moves around your
house – if you stop it at its source, you’ll be glad you did.” Pets might not be intentionally trying to cause us harm by affecting our air quality, but the fact remains, they can and do affect our quality of life. If you are a pet owner, it’s up to you to learn more about this topic and stay up-to-date on the latest ways you can protect your health and the health of your beloved pets.
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PROTIP
Protect Yourself and Your Equipment During and After a Storm by Nate Freyburger
D
uring and after a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or hurricane—any storm that brings with it water and lightning—homeowners need to be cautious about using their heating, air conditioning, and plumbing appliances. If you don’t take proper precautions, you risk hurting yourself or causing permanent damage to your equipment that could end up costing you big. “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 Scott Vigue, President Scott’s One Hour and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. “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
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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, open your equipment and appliances. Let air circulate; this will help with drying. • It may be a good idea to have an electrician inspect your home’s wiring to make sure everything is dry and safe to use before you plug anything in or turn anything on. • Additionally, it may be wise to have your heating and cooling equip-
OneHourAirFlorida.com
ment inspected by a service company. Just make sure you work with someone reputable, since some businesses will seek out storm area victims just to make a quick buck. The above rules should also apply to any appliance related to your home’s plumbing. However, the major risk for damaging plumbing equipment (not to mention harming yourself) comes primarily during a storm. Plumbing equipment uses water, which is the ideal conductor for lightning. It is possible to be struck by
lightning while inside your home if you’re not careful. Using the shower, sink, or other plumbing appliances during a storm could cause an electric shock. If lightning strikes your home or anywhere near your home, you could end up getting electrocuted through the metal pipes and the water you’re using. One way to reduce the risk of unwanted damage caused by lightning is to use PVC pipes in your home. Unlike metal pipes, PVC pipes will not conduct electricity, making it safer to use plumbing during a storm. Still, it’s probably best not to use your plumbing at all until after it passes. 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.
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TESTIMONIALS Courtesy call was very timely, the tech was out in just under 15 minutes from the call. He took care of the AC issues, was very polite and considerate of our space. He took the time to explain options about the repair and ways to protect the AC unit in the future. Matt R. was a great tech and super relatable. It gave me a good feeling about the company. I’ve never done business with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning but after this experience would gladly recommend them to friends and family. Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Lauren, Tampa
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SPREADING THE WORD... Dan has been the face of Ben Franklin plumbing for me, my go-to guy for any and all plumbing issues. Not my first vendor by any means, but Dan was a straight shooter, knowledgable, and was humble and passionate in getting my house plumbing issues fixed. I have found my relationships to be based largely on individual workmanship rather than company reputation, so I always request Dan when I need anything from Ben Franklin, but I have had other Ben Franklin guys out and they have been equally competent and personable. I read some of the reviews regarding cost... you get what you pay for. I learned my lesson with my electrician. I find it better to pay a bit more, get it right the first time, and have the work done by quality guys that guarantee their work.
I knew I had a freon leak and had to replace my ac, but I never expected to have it done in 6 hours from start to finish. A tech came out to check on the freon, told me they could not, by law, add any. We talked about alternatives and I said my son was coming in from out of town in two days, and I didn’t want ac installation going on while he was visiting. Mark, the tech, told me they could install it the same day he was here. And they did. We actually got cold last night! It was wonderful. I highly recommend Scott’s One Hour Air to anyone needing any type of ac work. They are quick, courteous, and stand behind their work 100%.
Christian, Tampa FL
Dottie, Winter Haven FL
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
OneHourAirFlorida.com
SOCIAL Vist Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing on Facebook for Helpful Tips and Advice
Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing on Facebook
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GOODEATS Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350ยบF. Line a 9 x 13-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray; set aside. 2. Pour into prepared pan set aside.
For the peanut butter cheesecake layer:
To the mixing bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the butter, cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla, and salt and mix on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes, stopping one or two times to scrape sides of bowl.
Add peanut butter and beat for two minutes more or until peanut butter is incorporated and the mixture has fluffed.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layered Brownies Brownies
Allow brownies to cool at room temperature for at least one hour then place the pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours to chill brownies.
1 Package Chewy Fudge Brownie Mix ( Or ) Your Own Recipe. Prepare brownie mix according to package. Only substitute strong coffee for water and also add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer
For the Chocolate Glaze:
In a small saucepan, bring whipping cream and vanilla just to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat. Add milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips; do not stir. Let stand for 5 minutes; stir until smooth.
Spread Chocolate Glaze over the top of the cooled brownies. Let stand until set. Use the foil to lift the uncut brownies out of the pan.
8 ounces of cream cheese softened 1/2 cup of sugar 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon of salt 1/4 cup(1/2 stick) butter 1 Large egg 1 cup of crunchy peanut butter
Cut and enjoy!
Chocolate Glaze 1/2 cup whipping cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips
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Pour this mixture over the brownie layer, smoothing it lightly with a spatula, if necessary. Bake for 38 to 43 minutes, or until top is golden and center is set but a bit loose, since it will firm as it cools.
STORE BROWNIES IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER IN THE REFRIGERATOR FOR UP TO ONE WEEK, OR IN THE FREEZER FOR UP TO 2 MONTHS
OneHourAirFlorida.com
Dale Trusts... “I believe a real evaluation from a veteran consumer investigator can make a real difference, not only for savvy consumers but for a great company as well. In my analysis, no company does it right, as well or more often than One Hour Air.” -Dale on Scott’s One Hour
“Plumbing problems NEVER work around your schedule. When you need relief, you need it now! Ben Franklin Plumbing works on your time, so much so, their motto is: “If there’s any delay, it’s you we pay!™ My investigative review finds Ben Franklin Plumbing stands behind this pledge, 24/7 and with their Straight Forward Pricing, with my analysis, you can’t lose!” -Dale on Benjamin Franklin
“I’ve Done The Research!”
PROTECTIONPLANS Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, saving you money on utility bills. Potential problems can be prevented or corrected early. Additionally, proper servicing extends the life of your heating and air conditioning system. Plus, regular maintenance keeps your manufacturer’s warranty in force. Other benefits include fewer repairs and improved capacity from your system. Service agreements are transferable.
What Are
by Nate Freyburger
PROTECTION PLANS
W
& Why Do We Need Them?
hether you’re installing a new air conditioning system or you’re having an old system repaired, chances are there is a protection plan that would benefit you. These agreements are designed to save consumers money on routine maintenance, while also protecting them from any potential problems. But before you jump into buying one, make sure you find the option that would benefit you the most. Protection plans are held between you and an air conditioning service provider, wherein you prepay for maintenance at a discounted rate and receive other additional benefits. They cover routine cleanings and check-ups, and they may help subsidize the cost of massive 30 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
emergency repairs or offer other savings. Think of them as a peace of mind policy for your system. One overlooked advantage of a protection plan is that it assures your air conditioning system will get the annual service inspection it needs. These annual tune-ups are important, since they allow a professional to spot any potential problems with your system early, before they spiral into something more expensive. Further, an annual maintenance appointment will help to keep your system clean and running efficiently, which could save you money on energy bills. Many people overlook their air conditioner, ignoring its needs until there’s a
OneHourAirFlorida.com
serious problem. Similar to how your car requires an oil change in order to keep it running, your air conditioner needs to be regularly serviced in order to prevent catastrophic issues. If something major goes wrong with your system because you have been neglecting to maintain it, a repair may end up costing you thousands of dollars. Just remember that some protection plans may require regular maintenance. That’s one of the reasons why protection plans exist – to help mitigate the cost associated with regular air conditioning service calls. Keep in mind that a protection plan is far cheaper than a major system problem caused by a lack of upkeep – having your system routinely serviced could save you big down the line.
MAINTENANCE ESSENTIALS
REPAIR & MAINTENANCE ESSENTIALS
REPAIR & MAINTENANCE ESSENTIALS PLUS
$15.99/MO.
$26.99/MO.
$29.99/MO.
Annual Cooling System Check-up Annual Heating System Check-up Front of Line Service When Scheduling Appointments No Age Restrictions 15% Off Any Repair Service $500 Coverage Per Repair Incident Up To $2,000 Annually No Service Visit Charge & No Deductables 24/7 Emergency Service $500 Credit Towards System Replacement
Heating & Cooling Plan Costs:
Current Failures Only Heating: • Fan Forced, Boiler and Geothermal Systems • Water based, natural gas, propane and oil included • All parts within the heating unit casing • Thermostats • Furnace zoning system control panel Cooling: • Ducted electric central air unit • Water evaporative cooler • All components and parts within covered unit • Refrigerant up to 2 lbs. yearly • Thermostat Dwellings (permanent foundation) • Single owner occupied family residences • Condos/Townhomes • Rentals (if owner purchased plan)
• Grilles • Ductwork • Flues • Air & Fuel Filters • Electronic Air Cleaners • Vents • Condensate Pumps & • Drain Lines • Humidifiers Lines • Dehumidifiers • Window A/C Units • Water lines & valves for boilers •Detached Garages • Acts of God, fire, war, flood, earthquake, hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, freeze, vandalism & theft • Pre-existing conditions • Refrigerants over 2 lbs. annually • Adequacy or capacity of systems or appliance • Cosmetic damage or defects • Service work needed to meet code violations • Restoration, repair, or replacement of drywall, floor coverings, plaster, cabinets, counter tops, tiling and paint • Removal of hazardous products or materials, including mold and asbestos • Manufacturer’s defect or recall
• Customer may cancel at anytime within 30 days of signing up for Plan • No pre-inspection required • One year term with auto-renewal (anniversary notification) • Contract starts on enrollment date • 15% discount and maintenance claims available on Enrollment Date • Eligible to make repair claims 30 days after contract start date as indicated on Welcome Kit letter • Welcome Kit arrives 7-10 business days after enrollment - customer to review • Customer may elect not to renew agree ment by providing notice in writing any time prior to the start of the 2nd renewal term • No commercial coverage • System or equipment must be properly installed and in proper working order and located in an accessible and safe environment for the authorized repair technician
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WARRANTIES
UNDERSTANDING
WARRANTIES Y ou may have an existing warranty on your air conditioning system. When you purchased your new air conditioning system it came with a manufacturer’s warranty. You should have received a copy of this warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty 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 they will be happy to assist you.
and within 30 days of the 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 make using and obtaining OEM 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 are beginning to enforce with greater regularity the terms and conditions within your paperwork. These changes may affect you.
Manufacturers now require yearly maintenance by an authorized dealer/servicer in order to keep a warranty in good standing. As a valued customer, we ask that if you are not currently having maintenance done on your equipment at least once a year that you contact us or an authorized dealer/servicer in
Most manufacturers allow you to transfer warranties to the new owner upon the sale of your property for a small fee 32 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
OneHourAirFlorida.com
your area as soon as possible. Scott’s One Hour Air now has dual protection plans with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing that can be purchased to fulfill the requirement to keep a warranty in effect and take care of all of your plumbing maintenance. See pages 43-45 for all the details on our protection plans. Again, thank you for choosing Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We are honored to serve you. Please call our Customer Service Department if you have any questions or if you need to schedule maintenance. We have several protection plans and our customer service representatives would be happy to explain them to you and help you choose which plan best fits your needs.
THETEAM
Mario Martinez Operations Manager Mario has dedicated eleven years to the company. He enjoys boating and spending time with his family.
Melissa Fair Office Manager
With a varied background that includes work in dairy production and the petroleum industry, Melissa joined Scott’s in 2013. Outside of work, she’s an artist with a love for Boston Terriers, neurology and the writing of
Oliver Sachs.
Scott Vigue President The owner and founder of Scott’s One Hour, Scott been in the HVAC and plumbing business for over twenty years. When he isn’t working, he’s likely boating, golfing, or spending time with his family.
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Alysha Vigue
Eric Juarez
Marketing Manager The Daughter of Scott’s owner and founder, Scott Vigue, Alysha now serves as the company’s marketing manager. She’s an animal lover and an amateur chef.
Installations Manager Eric loves spending time with his family and friends. He has been with the company for ten years.
Kenny Newman
Jeff Kaloostian, ll
General Manager Kenny has served the industry since 1997 and likes to spend quality time with family and friends. In his spare time he enjoys working with truck audio.
Training Manager
Kesha Freeny
Alyssa Pries
Accounting Manager Kesha enjoys volunteering for her church outside of work and has been with the company for two years and three months as of March 2013.
Warehouse Manager Alyssa loves keeping pets and fishing on her spare time (though she doesn’t typically keep the fish as pets). She’s been with Scott’s for six years.
Scott Wood
Larry Nysted
Service Manager Ten years in the HVAC industry have made Scott Wood a serious professional. He loves his work, but he also loves spending time at the beach and enjoying the company of his family.
Dream Manager Larry has been with Scott’s since 1990. He works as an insurance agent and consultant; his job is to help Scott’s employees accomplish the goals they’ve set for themselves and their families.
Jeff is a first generation HVAC technician who has worked in the industry for over a decade. He’s been with Scott’s for seven years. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his kids and studying the Bible.
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THANK GOODNESS FOR REBATES!
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RECEIVE UP TO A
$
1,610
* WITH THE PURCHASE OF A QUALIFYING
REBATE
HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM
Rebate prices subject to change. Valid on Deluxe, Premier, or Optimum AC Units.
FREE IN HOME ESTIMATE Always on time or you don’t pay a dime
866-930-2751
One offer available per qualifying purchase.