Cool zone
Premiere Issue
veteranair.com/coolzone
Integrity
Is The Path To Success
A GROUP OF
ANIMAL LOVERS
WHAT ARE
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTS?
VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED
Why Your AC
Needs a Check-Up
WAS YOUR SYSTEM
PROPERLY
INSTALLED?
The First Step To COMFORT FOR LIFE
Lower Utility Bills Install a high-efficiency Daikin brand indoor comfort system in your home. You can feel comfortable while saving money on energy bills. Find out more from your Daikin Comfort Pro Dealer. And be certain to ask about our Comfort Promise.
Providing Year Round Air Conditioning & Heating Comfort!
Veteran Owned & Veteran Operated
941-203-1009 I CAC1816468
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18
6
Was Your System Properly Installed? by Clair Cameron
20
Is a Duct-Free Air Conditioner Right for You?
22
Sweet Whiskey Steak
24
Understanding Warranties
26
What Are Maintenance Agreements?
Veteran Air Service Agreement
by Nate Freyburger
27
Meet The Veteran Air Team
A Group of Animal Lovers
28 30
Boys & Girls Club: Great Futures Start Here
Table of
Contents
5
A Message From the Owner of Veteran Air
6
Integrity is the Path to Success: History of Veteran Air
by Kevin Henault
by Maxine Reneé
by Clair Cameron
by Nate Freyburger
10
by Nate Freyburger
8
Cool Air Isn’t Necessarily Good Air by Jacqueline Cross
10
Why Your AC Needs a Check-Up
12
Take Precautions After a Severe Storm
14
Helping Local Veterans in Need
16
26
by Clair Cameron
by Jacqueline Cross
by Garrett Chilson
by Toni Wexler
© 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 Veteran Air Heating & Air Conditioning. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 941-203-1009. Produced in whole or in part by CustomDesignMags.com™ & DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc.™, 4305 62nd st. 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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Whether it’s for YOUR BUSINESS or
YOUR FAMILY...
A Message From
A
Kevin Henault
President of Veteran Air
fter 22 years in the air conditioning and heating business, I founded Veteran Air on the simple premise that honest, professional service would lead to long-term relationships with our customers. We genuinely want to earn your business, and we believe we can do that by providing you with great service at a fair price. Too many people in this industry will lie and cheat to earn a quick buck. At Veteran Air, we don’t see you as a cash cow – you’re a very real person to us, and we want to earn the chance to continually serve you and your business. As you may have guessed from our name, we here at Veteran Air support our brave military men and women who put their lives on the line in service to our country. We give back by providing subsidized air conditioning services to veterans with financial needs, and we always provide our services to former and current military service members at a discounted rate. On both my parents’ sides, my family has a long, dedicated history of serving our country. Growing up, my father taught me the value of respect, politeness, honesty, and general human decency. Continuing my family legacy, I joined the U.S Army and served in Germany as a medic in the 11th Armored Cavalry. My son Joseph continued the family tradition of military service. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division and thankfully came home safe from a tour in Afghanistan. As you can imagine, military service is something near and dear to our hearts; it isn’t just a marketing gimmick. We believe we have a genuine obligation to give back to the veterans who have served us all.
Always trust your B&B Advisor It’s your life. Nothing is more important. We help protect what you have achieved by promising expert advice and the right coverage at the right price.
I would like to take a moment to thank you for choosing Veteran Air. We hope you enjoy our magazine. It is my belief that loyal customers make a healthy business, and we want to establish real, mutually-beneficial relationships with all of our clients. We want you to utilize us for all your air conditioning and heating needs, now and far into the future. Sincerely,
CALL US TODAY! Kevin Henault, Owner
Business: Mark Kowalski: 941-893-2209 Personal: Beth Murphy: 941-893-2280
240 S. Pineapple Ave, Suite 301 Sarasota, FL 34236 bbsarasota.com
941-203-1009
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5
Integrity
Is The Path To Success by Nate Freyburger
I
t was Spring 2012 when Veteran Air Conditioning in Sarasota, Fla. first opened its doors. The business came about through the work of now-president, Kevin Henault, and four other gentlemen who saw an opportunity to continue serving the customer base they built over the last decade.
The residential market crash of 2008 lead to Kevin parting ways with his previous business partner after their company was forced to adjust to the fallout. It was from that separation that Veteran Air became a reality. With a humble staff of five and three trucks on the road, they began serving clients almost immediately.
“I actually owned another air conditioning company for ten years before starting this one; my partner and I separated,” Kevin says. “I’ve been in heating and air conditioning for 22 years in this area, and I have a lot of long-term clients that have been with me for 16, 17 years, and they’ve become friends.“
For Kevin, starting a new company when he already had loyal customers lined up was a no-brainer. While it was still important for Veteran Air to find new business in Manatee and Sarasota counties, having customers there to support them from the start allowed for rapid expansion. In March of 2014, the company moved to
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a larger location on 7359 International Place in Sarasota. They’ve also begun expanding into Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, but Kevin says he’s letting the company grow naturally. “I want to continue to take over the market share of my existing area of Manatee and Sarasota County. I’m growing into Pinellas County and Hillsborough County slowly, but there’s still a lot of market share for me to take over (near where we’re located),”he says. “I try and keep my service people close, because then we can serve the customers better by using less vehicles and getting more work done on a daily basis.”
“Customer Michael K. called and said Matt was great! He called about a noise coming from his Air Handler and he so appreciates us for showing up so fast and taking care of him! He is a new customer, he left another company because all they tried to do was upsell at each maintenance.. He wanted an honest company that will just do the right thing. We rock!” :) -Kevin Henault
“We rely on customer referrals. In this business, that’s the path to continued growth,” Kevin says. “Deliver an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay, and build longterm, mutually-beneficial relationships.”
In only two years time, Veteran Air has gone from a small startup to a strong company with 38 employees and 26 trucks on the road. In the highly-competitive air conditioning business, growing so quickly is no easy task. According to Kevin, the expansion of his company stems from sticking to basic customer service principles. “We rely on customer referrals. In this business, that’s the path to continued growth,” Kevin says. “Deliver an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay, and build long-term, mutually-beneficial relationships.” Kevin also links the success of Veteran Air to their focus on supporting former and
current military service men and women in the community. Being a veteran himself, Kevin says he has the utmost respect for our nation’s veterans, many of whom are regular customers of his. Veteran Air supports the troops by offering everyday discounted services, as well as a charitable fund to subsidize air conditioning installation and repair costs for those in need. The company is always looking ahead for new ways to service their clients better, hoping to add new divisions in the future. For now, Kevin says he’s content with focusing on improving the services of his growing residential and commercial heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and pool heating divisions.
When asked how he’ll continue to stand out from his competition as Veteran Air grows, Kevin says his company works hard every day to ease the fear people have about dealing with air conditioning service contractors by hiring only the best service technicians. “We really want the community to know that when they call on Veteran Air Conditioning, they’re going to get the facts about their air conditioning system—the truth,” he says. “We’re not one of those people who are going to rip you off. When you call Veteran Air Conditioning you’re going to get the truth.”
941-203-1009
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Cool Air
Isn’t Necessarily by Jacqueline Cross
Good Air
Your home is essentially a Petri dish for dust, dander, mold and micro-organisms. These invaders use your living space to multiply and spread rapidly.
Y
ou could 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
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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. 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
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respiratory problems, you’ll want to look for a higher MERV rating. Then again, even if you don’t have allergies or other health concerns, you may just want to get the best filter for your family so that the indoor air quality around your home is the best it can be. Your options include a throwaway fiberglass filter, washable filter, one-inch or five-inch pleated filters. Check the MERV rating on each, and get the details about how various filter types work with your system before you make a purchase.
Owner and Operator of Patriot Home and Pest, Trevor Richard has been in the pest control industry since his arrival to Sarasota, Florida from Newburgh, NY in 2004. A 10th Mountain Infantryman who served our great nation during the aftermath of 9/11, it only seemed fitting to name his business “Patriot”, which is one word you could use to describe Trevor.
Why choose Patriot? “We provide professional, reliable pest control services including but not limited to home pest protection, lawn care and fertilization, rodent exclusions, termite treatments, and have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. I have been in the industry for over 10 years and excel at what matters most -- taking care of people.”
“I own a local electrical service company (Luminous Electric), and have been doing business with Veteran Air for some time. I am always impressed by the top notch service, cleanliness, and quick response they provide us and our customers. Kevin and his staff is a true testament to a company with excellence as their goal. I wouldn’t ever hesitate to refer them to my friends, family, or customers. Keep up the good work!!!!!” - John J.
Why Your AC
by Clair Cameron
Needs a Check-Up 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 tune-up, to assure that it’s running smoothly when you need it most. 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. 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. 10 COOL ZONE
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 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 mainte-
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nance 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.
COMFORT WHEN YOU’RE HOME, SAVINGS WHEN YOU’RE AWAY: INTRODUCING HONEYWELL’S LYRIC™ THERMOSTAT
The New Lyric™ Thermostat Comfort. Savings. Life. Perfectly in tune » App based install – Everything from install to Wi-Fi connection happens in four easy steps using the mobile app – no manual necessary » Geofencing uses a homeowner’s smartphone location to automatically save energy when they’re away and ensure comfort when they return home » The Smart Cues feature delivers messages to a homeowner’s mobile device to alert of upcoming filter changes or extreme temperatures » The Fine Tune feature considers both humidity and temperature to adjust the setting so that a homeowner’s desired temperature always feels the same. » Shortcuts are buttons on the app interface that can be customized for quick changes of temperature settings for specific purposes. This allows homeowner’s to change settings with one touch. » Compatible with most other heating, cooling and heat pump systems » 5 Year Warranty
THE THERMOSTAT THAT RECOGNIZES YO U R FA M I LY ’ S B U SY L I F E STY L E , HEATING AND COOLING YOUR HOME BASED ON SMARTPHONE LOCATION
941-203-1009
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After A
by Jacqueline Cross
SEVERE STORM
A
fter a severe thunderstorm, tornado or hurricane, homeowners need to take several precautions before attempting to salvage or restart heating and cooling equipment.
“It’s important to remember not to immediately restart heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm because it can be dangerous and could cause further damage,” says Kevin Henault, owner of Veteran Air. “The equipment may be severely damaged and its wiring may be damaged or 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.” A qualified technician knows what to do with obstacles, broken pieces or other deterrents that prevent an air conditioning system 12 COOL ZONE
TAKE PRECAUTIONS BEFORE STARTING HEATING & COOLING EQUIPMENT.
from running at peak performance following rough weather. Consumers who attempt to run their system without a thorough check may be looking at more permanent damage down the road. To ensure safety and prevent further damage to equipment, take the following steps after a storm: •If the storm caused flooding, don’t start equipment until you are certain there is no water inside any components. If you’re not sure, don’t start it. •Have a reputable electrician or a technician from the power company or the city inspect your home’s internal and external wiring to make sure they’re dry and safe before you turn on any electrical equipment. •If the power company gives approval to turn on the electricity in your home
veteranair.com/coolzone
but you think you may have a problem with your heating or cooling equipment, have the service company disconnect the equipment from the electrical source, and have it properly serviced first. •If there was flooding, open equipment and get some air circulating inside to speed up the drying process. After a storm, use only reputable service companies to help you get your air conditioning and heating system up and running again. “Unscrupulous companies can descend on disaster areas,” Henault says. “Be careful. If necessary, go without service a little longer to make sure you get real value for your money.”
Helping Local
by Nate Freyburger
Veterans In Need
V
eteran Air Conditioning lives up to its name by providing services to active and former members of the military at a discounted rate. All veterans are eligible, and this savings is offered on every service call, regardless of the season or day of the week. However, this isn’t the only way Veteran Air supports local military service members. In an effort to give back to the community, the company also has a program in place to provide discounted or free services to veterans who otherwise couldn’t afford them.
“If we have a veteran in need of an air conditioning repair who is in financial constraints and can’t afford repairs, we take money from this account and purchase the parts and donate the labor to get the equipment up and running again,” says Kevin Henault, the President
and Founder of Veteran Air. “We call it the Local Veterans in Need Program.” Money for the Local Veterans in Need Program is set aside in a special charitable account, which is drawn from as needed. Veteran Air subsidizes the cost of air conditioning and heating, installation and repairs based on the financial needs of the specific veteran and their family. Kevin says this is his way of saying ‘thank you’. “Coming from a family with a history of military service, I have the utmost respect for those who serve our country,” Kevin says. “This is just a small way for us to support our local service men and women.” Kevin says that many of his regular clients are veterans, some of whom have been with him for over a decade. One of the rea-
sons he founded Veteran Air was to better serve them, especially after witnessing the financial hardships many go through. “Being a veteran myself, and seeing some of the veterans who have been struggling for a long time, [motivated me to help],” says Kevin. “I also voblunteer to help veterans whenever I can. We are very much involved with the American Legion, VFW, and similar organizations. We take care of a lot of those guys, too.” If you’re a local veteran who is having trouble affording their air conditioning repair bills, Veteran Air may be able to help. For more information about the Local Veterans in Need Program, or to discover all the ways Veteran Air is working to save military service members money, contact them at 941-444-6550 or visit veteranac.com.
“I was very pleased with Veteran Air’s quick service and very reasonable pricing. Found the issue quickly and my business was in Tampa. Would definitely call them again. Congratulations to you and your team for such exceptional service to all your customers!!!” Thank you, -Chami
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A Group of
Animal Lovers by Garrett Chilson
W
Wildlife) that all call us,” says David Fansler, the President and Managing Director for the Wildlife Rescue Service. “Anybody in the community can call us at any time.”
“If you notice a wild animal that’s in trouble, you can call us – we have 5 local police departments, sheriff’s departments, (Florida Highway Patrol), and (Florida Fish and
Fansler says the Wildlife Rescue Service will even pick up dangerous animals, including bobcats and eagles. The organization works with a team of rehabilitators, veterinarians, and other animal rescue services to care for and nurse local wildlife back to health. Once the animals are treated and have had time to recover, Wildlife Rescue releases them back into their natural habitat.
hen local wildlife is found sick, injured or orphaned in Sarasota, Manatee or Pinellas Counties, the Wildlife Rescue Service of Florida will pick them up and get them to a proper care facility. This rescue service is offered 24 hours a day, seven days a week and extends to all local wildlife, excluding snakes and alligators.
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While they often work with law enforcement and animal control, Wildlife Rescue is a privately-operated, non-profit organization that is funded entirely by donations. Additionally, all of their staff work on a volunteer basis. “Right now we have about eight volunteers, none of whom are paid,” David says. “We’re probably one of the only organizations that are non-profit that doesn’t have any paid staff.” In order to volunteer, a person must be over the age of 18 and have their own vehicle.
The vehicle they drive must be large enough to fit a cage for the animals to be carried in, since they will use their own during rescue calls. Additionally, all volunteers must receive a state license in order to work with Wildlife Rescue; however, David says most of the training is provided in-house. The final requirement is the most important of all: compassion. Since members of Wildlife Rescue will be dealing with animals that are in trouble, scared, and alone, a little bit
of love for our furry friends goes a long way towards being a successful volunteer. “People work with us because they want to. We do this for free,” David says. “We’re just a group of animal lovers.” For more information on how you can help, or to report an animal in need of care, contact Wildlife Rescue at 941-7209453. Kevin Henault, the President of Veteran Air, volunteers his time to help the Wildlife Rescue Service. 941-203-1009
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“I would like to compliment your technician Brian, he was on time, very efficient, and pleasant. Since I was away for a week, my house was like a sauna. It is now cooling down. Thanks.” - Phyllis S.
Was Your
System Properly by Clair Cameron
I
f you Google the phrase “HVAC hacks” you’ll find a multitude of entertaining videos and photos of air conditioning installations gone terribly wrong. For those of us on the outside, it may seem funny to see the mayhem; but for the victims of poor air conditioning and heating installation, the associated costs can be huge. Sadly, cases of HVAC hackery are on the rise. If your HVAC equipment isn’t properly installed, you risk causing serious damage to the equipment and your home. If you’re lucky enough to not have to pay for a major repair bill or a new installa18 COOL ZONE
Installed?
Proper installation is vital to assuring the longevity, functionality, safety and energy efficiency of your system.
tion, chances are you’re still going to see higher energy bills. During installation, there are many things an installer has to consider. For starters, it’s vital to assure that air is able to flow through the system unimpeded. If any part of the system’s ability to push air is obstructed, that’s going to translate into higher energy bills since the system will have to work harder to move air throughout the home. “Make sure that the air distribution system, or the ductwork, is sized correctly to deliver the amount of airflow
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into the home,” says Kevin Henault, the President of Veteran Air. “You’re able to maximize the efficiency of the air conditioning system itself after you make sure that it can disperse air properly.” Kevin says the next step is to make sure that coolant levels are properly balanced. A system that doesn’t contain enough refrigerant isn’t working at maximum efficiency, and conversely, a system may become damaged if too much is used. Assuring that your system has just the right amount is crucial to its longevity and performance.
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There is also a risk of electrical fires associated with improperly-installed air conditioning and heating units. A professional should have all the right equipment available to see to it that your system is installed safely. Something as simple as improper wiring can cause power surges and overloads, which could lead to serious overheating and burnouts.
LOCALLY OWNED BY A U.S. ARMY COMBAT VETERAN Us Call y For a Tod FREE e A mat i t s E
“Thickness of the wire makes all the difference in the world when considering what you should use,” Kevin says. “Properly-sized electrical wires assure that the system is not going to cause any fire hazards.” So, how do you protect yourself from shoddy equipment installation? First, you should check to see that the company you’re working with has all the necessary state licenses and insurance. Second, make sure they pull a building permit for the installation. Doing the above is reassurance that an installer is taking everything to task the way they should by having the proper tools and training. “If your air conditioning and heating equipment isn’t installed properly, it could end up costing you a fortune down the line,” Kevin says. “Doing a little bit of homework on proper installation procedures, and checking to make sure that all proper licenses, insurance, and permits are in place will go a long way towards protecting you and your family.”
Contact us to get an an annual cleaning schedule to save time and money!
941-922-4778 www.HooverPressure.com
941-203-1009
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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.”
Is A Duct-Free
by Maxine Reneé
Air Conditioner D
Right For You?
uctless mini-splits or duct-free HVAC units can be a useful alternative to cool and heat homes and businesses. Coming in a variety of sizes, and with the capability of controlling the air temperature in individual zones of a building or home, they offer both economic and environmental advantages. HVAC companies nationwide are installing them in multi-family housing units, renovated older single-family homes, and office spaces. They’re perfect for residential and commercial consumers alike since they offer a unique way to save energy by only cooling areas that are presently being occupied. Duct-free systems, as the name implies, have no ductwork, and consist of an out-
door condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. These are linked together with tubing that houses the power cable, refrigerant, and a drain for condensation. In many ways, they operate in a manner quite similar to a standard air conditioning system except with a few distinct advantages. Kevin Henault, the President of Veteran Air, noted that the advantages of duct-free systems include the ease of installation, energy savings, and flexibility in terms of the system placement. “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
The cost savings can be significant in terms of installation and energy use. 20 COOL ZONE
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Duct-free systems can also help to keep your home safer because only a small hole is needed for the tubing to pass through the wall; whereas window-mounted and through-the-wall air conditioners, unfortunately, can provide an easy entrance for intruders. Due to the unique installation and placement associated with ductless mini-splits, not all air conditioning contractors are able to properly able to put them in. “I would caution against using a company whose technicians are not proficient in ductfree unit installation, as each unit must be correctly sized and placed,” Kevin says. “An error here could result in wasted energy, improper temperature or humidity control, and greater long-term operational expenses.” While many consumers still have reservations about leaving the world of traditional duct air conditioners behind, Kevin says duct-free systems are starting to proliferate because they offer a huge cost savings for those on a budget. “In terms of the energy you’ll use, the installation costs, and required maintenance, duct-free systems offer people a big savings in the long run. These things are built to last,” Kevin says. “And best of all, you won’t sacrifice any comfort if you choose to use one.”
Pro-Plumbing Works can help with all of your plumbing needs in Southwest Florida on the Sun Coast, including: » ALL Plumbing repairs » Water Heaters » Tankless Water Heaters » Water Filters & Softeners » Sewer & Drain Cleaning » Sewer Jetting & Video » Re Piping
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Before you go on vacation, make sure you have a working main shutoff valve in place. We recommend a brass lever ball valve. Turn it off before you leave the property, and if you’re going to be gone for more than a week, have a professional turn it on occasionally to test all of the plumbing fixtures. Also, make sure you protect your home against floods by installing burst-proof supply lines and a water heater pan with a drain that leads outside. Additionally, be sure to replace any corroded or damaged valves. Call us any time for more helpful plumbing tips!
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Sweet
Whiskey Steak by Clair Cameron
For the steak lover in all of us, follow this recipe and you will end up with a sweet, savory cut of meat that you and a friend will love. The bold mix of the whiskey, with the sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar, combine to create a marinade that is truly one of a kind. 22 COOL ZONE
Ingredients: 2 – 8oz Rib-Eye Steaks 1/3 Cup of Water 1/4 Cup of Whiskey 1/4 Cup of Pineapple 1/4 Cup of Diced Onion 1/4 Cup of Brown Sugar 1 Teaspoon of Minced Garlic 3 Tablespoons of Soy Sauce 3 Tablespoons of Sweet Teriyaki
Directions: 1. Set the steaks aside. Use a fork or whisk and blend together all of the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl.
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2. After everything is mixed thoroughly, pour the mixture into a baking disk. Then, add your steaks to the mixture. Cover them entirely if possible. 3. Cover the baking dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours. 4. When the time comes to cook them, preheat your grill to medium and lightly butter the grate. Grill the steaks to your preferred level (It’s recommended you go with rare or medium-rare for this recipe). 5. Serve with your favorite vegetable and enjoy!
“The best and most trusted AC company I have ever dealt with. I have lived in Florida many years and used several companies. Veteran Air will be my only AC company from now on.� -Frank
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“We asked Veteran Air for second opinion on repairs another company said we needed to have on two properties. The Veteran service person said we did not need these repairs thus saving us over $2000.” - Margaret H.
Understanding
Warranties W
sale of your property for a small fee, and within 30 days of closing.
Veteran Air never charges for residential overtime or holiday hours.
Manufacturers are beginning to enforce, with greater regularity, the terms and conditions within your paperwork. These changes may affect you.
• 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 stock parts. Although these changes are difficult, we make it our priority to bring you comfort as quickly as possible.
• Manufacturers now require yearly maintenance by an authorized dealer/servicer in order to keep a warranty in good standing. If you are not currently having maintenance done on your equipment at least once a year, contact an authorized servicer in your area as soon as possible.
• Most manufacturers allow you to transfer warranties to the new owner upon the
• Manufacturers only cover work performed during normal business hours.
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.
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We want to thank you for choosing Veteran Air. If you have any questions related to your warranty, please do not hesitate to call us at 904-203-1009.
“Thank you so much. Forest was very professional, knowledgeable and courteous. He did a fantastic job at trouble – shooting my 16 year old A/H and compressor.” -Tracy K.
W
hether you’re installing a new air conditioning system or you’re having an old system repaired, chances are there is a maintenance agreement that would benefit you. These agreements are designed to save consumers money on routine maintenance, while also protecting them from any potential problems. Before you jump into buying one, make sure you find the option that would benefit you the most. Maintenance agreements 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 emergency repairs or offer other savings. Think of them as a ‘peace of mind’ policy for your system. One overlooked advantage of a maintenance agreement 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 and 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.
What Are Maintenance
Agreements? by Nate Freyburger
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Many people overlook their air conditioner, ignoring its needs until there is a 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 warranties may require regular maintenance. That’s one of the reasons why maintenance agreements exist – to help mitigate the cost associated with regular air conditioning service calls. Keep in mind that a maintenance agreement is far cheaper than a major system problem caused by a lack of upkeep; having your system routinely serviced could save you big time down the line.
ST N I A G A F L URSE O Y T C with E S T L O L I PR B R I A REP D E /C T A C R E U P O X Y E R N O U TS F N E M E E R G SERVICE A nance Regular mainte em running keeps your syst on utility ng efficiently, savi blems pro al ti n bills. Pote d or te n ve can be pre y. Also corrected earl extends g proper servicin eating and h r u yo f the life o system. g in n io air condit nance Regular mainte facturer’s u keeps your man Other e. rc fo in warranty e fewer benefits includ ved pro repairs and im ur system. yo m o fr capacity ents are em re ag Service transferable.
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Veteran Air Team At Your Service Kevin L. Henault Owner
After being an Army medic in Germany, Kevin received an honorable discharge in 1993. Becoming interested in the HVAC industry, Kevin moved to Sarasota, starting an air conditioning career. Beginning as a warehouse/delivery person, he received certifications in maintenance, service and sales. In 2003, Kevin became a licensed Florida AC contractor. Kevin enjoys life with his wife Adriane, his four children, four grandchildren and their cat named Captain. Kevin and his family participate in traveling, fine dining, fishing, attending sporting events and enjoying southwest Florida’s fine resources.
Edward Stidd
Owner, Specializing in Commercial HVAC sales Originally from Pennsylvania and making the big move to Sarasota in 1973, Ed has been involved with the air conditioning business for over 40 years. Ed enjoys golfing, riding Harleys and indulging in the best fine dining and arts that Sarasota has to offer. Ed has four children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, with whom he spends much quality time.
Cassidy Summerall Sales Coordinator
Cassidy was born and raised in Sarasota. She graduated from Booker High School in 2010 and started nursing school at State College of Florida. Although she has only been in the HVAC business for two short years, she has grown to know and love the industry. She has two older brothers, one in law school and one whose graduated from University of Florida. She also has a little sister in elementary school. Cassidy enjoys a professional work environment with likeminded coworkers and enjoys her job at Veteran Air.
Sheila Marvel Office Manager
Sheila is responsible for the day-to-day operation and management of Veteran Heating and Air Conditioning, including staff management, accounting and customer service. She is also responsible for providing administrative leadership for the office, and acting as liaison between the office and management. In 1989 Sheila and her husband, Dave relocated from their home town of Mishawaka, Indiana to the Bradenton, Florida area. Sheila attended Indiana University and transferred to MCC. Sheila and Dave have 2 Children, David and Samantha, born in Sarasota. Presently are both in college.
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“Veteran Air is a First Class AC company. Their techs are always professional, clean and honest. They do what they say, when they say they will do it. It is truly a pleasure to call Veteran Air. I use them for all my AC work, Residential and Commercial.” - Richard B.
Vincent V. Vafiades
Sales & Design Estimators
Vincent has over 20 of air conditioning and heating experience in the Sarasota and Bradenton area. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a business degree. In 1986, Vincent, his wife Cheryl, and his family moved here from the New England area. He is the proud father of one son and one daughter. Vincent is a person of integrity. His personal definition of integrity is ‘to have a moral backbone and to act with ethical principles at all times regardless of the potential outcome.’
Benjamin Woods
Richard Dirden
Benjamin is originally from New York. He moved to Florida in 2001. He is married with two beautiful children: daughter Aniya, 6; and son Jaxon, 3. Benjamin and wife, Nicole, have been together for 11 years and married for eight. He has been in the HVAC business for over 10 years, serving the Sarasota and Bradenton area. Benjamin has spent time In every department in the HVAC field, from installation to sales.
Richard Dirden is a NATE certified air conditioning and heat pump technician. Richard manages the Residential and Commercial Installation Department. He and his wife, Sarah, have one son, James.
Sales & Design Estimator
Install Manager
Steve Masters
Master Technician
Steve is from Cumberland, Rhode Island. His dedication to the industry spreads 43 years. He is a master refrigeration and commercial technician. He has one son who is also in the air conditioning field. His significant other of 20 years is Christine. Steve has been in Florida for seven years, and he loves Florida.
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“The atmosphere of what the Club offers kids kind of sells itself,” says Dawn Stanhope, President of the BGCMC in Bradenton. “It’s their Club. Adults who walk in are really mentors to these kids. You’re almost a magnet. The kids really embrace you as part of their Club family pretty quickly, because they have a sense of ownership, that it’s a safe place; a place to be themselves, to learn from one another.” Staff and volunteers at seven Club sites throughout the county lead programs in life skills, sports, fitness, recreation, education, career, character, leadership, health, and the arts.
Boys & Girls Clubs
Great Futures W
Start Here
hen you open the door to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County facilities, you just may be opening the door to a great future for one child, or many. Take Wendell Faison, the Club Director at The Club at Southeast High School in Bradenton, Fla. When he walked into the
by Toni Wexler
club as a 7-year-old boy, many of his friends did not join him. Now, one of those friends is in prison—an all-too-common ending for kids on the street with nothing to do. Today, Faison gives back, mentoring and passing along strong moral character, and establishing life goals for Manatee County’s youth. When the school bell rings at the end of the day, 50 million children across America pour out into the community. One-third of those children have no place to go. The numbers may have changed, but when the first Boys Club was established in 1860, kids didn’t have any place to go then, either.
“We want to expose them to multiple things,” says Stanhope. “We don’t want it to become an extension of the school day. It’s not daycare either. It’s something else, something very special.” Youth come from different schools and neighborhoods. But, when they’re at the Club, “they’re all Club kids,” Stanhope says. Some of the youth come back as volunteers. They may go to college or enter the workforce, but Stanhope says quite a few people, even board and committee members, grew up in the Clubs. Sheriff Brad Steube and Representative Jim Boyd are alumni. Local volunteer and President of Veteran Air, Kevin Henault, has been involved for about six years. “I love it when we have an event and you ask, ‘How many people in the room were former Club kids?’ And all of these hands go up,” says Stanhope. “They could be the mayor or the sheriff today; all sorts of different careers, and they grew up in the Clubs. It inspires the kids that are in the Clubs now to see what those futures look like.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County offers young people enriching after school and summer programs with a focus on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good citizenship. The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is ‘to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.’ Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County provides hope and opportunity to over 6,000 young people at seven
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locations (Daughtrey Elementary School, Orange Ridge-Bullock Elementary School, Harllee Middle School, Lincoln Memorial Middle School, Southeast High School; and the traditional DeSoto and Palmetto Clubs). Open the door and take a tour of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County. For more information or to arrange a tour, call 7612582 or visit www.bgcmanatee.org.
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