Category Archive: HVAC

How the Harsh Winter Affected HVAC Techs

The winter’s frigidly cold temperatures have made the jobs of HVAC techs more difficult, as well as exceedingly important. For people whose heating units broke down in February in Cleveland, when record lows were recording, the heating, ventilation and air conditioner man or woman was a welcomed sight.

Heating repair technicians, however, had their share of obstacles in the harsh winter, during shifts of up to 14 hours. For example, they had to be extremely cautious as they set up their ladders as icy patches on the ground can cause ladders to skip out on them. Thus, many HVAC techs got creative by backing up their van to set the ladder against its tire at the location for a firmer hold.

This tip shared by technician Doug Braford on a recent NPR interview was one of many. Braford went on to say that he had to find balance between setting up the ladder quickly for a long day ahead and also wanting to be safe.

In addition, Braford explained that the uniform for a heating, ventilation and air conditioner technician was a tricky one in the severe winter conditions. Given the chilly temps outdoors, layers of warm clothing was a great choice, generally.

However, when he entered a warm building, he would begin to sweat under the layers, and then, once he went back outdoors it felt extra cold because clothing layers were now drenched in sweat. To help compensate, he brought along dry socks to put on when this happened.

Regarding his hands, Braford explained that as long as he kept moving it was a way to keep his hands from becoming so cold that they didn’t seem to work anymore. Other ways that HVAC technicians kept their fingers warm outdoors were to wear electric gloves and even motorcycle gear. Body suits with heat packs prove useful for these types of conditions too.

Doug Braford also joked in the NPR interview that facial hair, such as the beard of Mel Gibson, would be help protect facial skin against the harsh temperatures. Thank you to HVAC techs, including Doug Braford of Braford Heating and Cooling, for helping warm homes around the Cleveland area and beyond.

HVAC Industry

The last few years have been tough for all industries, but as the economy starts to pick up, so too will the HVAC industry. There are a few reasons why this industry in particular will see steady growth until at least 2019.

One of the most important drivers for the HVAC industry’s growth will be the focus on energy savings. Consumers like to know that they are doing their part and the added bonus of saving money is a big factor as well. In addition, governmental guidelines will also influence builders to meet certain criteria. This area will see boosts from new installations of energy efficient systems as well as upgrades to existing systems.

Mobile technology will also help push the HVAC industry farther. The ability to check on a system remotely and to see input data, parts used, and even inspection information will greatly improve efficiency.  Mobile technology will also help drive the amount of data that the consumer and the operator will be able to share.  This is result in increased business for the contractor as happy consumers, are more likely to repeat business.

In addition to upgrades and new installations in current buildings, there will be many new installation opportunities thanks to the budding construction industry. As new homes and office buildings are constructed, HVAC systems will are sure to be integral. Targeting hospitals, telecom centers, light and heavy commercial buildings, will surely help boost the HVAC industry.