International Day of Peace: Climate Action For Peace

climate change

International Day of Peace: Climate Action for Peace

The International Day of Peace was first implemented by the United Nations back in 1981. The day falls on September 21 each year and is meant to act as a call for the world to have one day of peace personally and politically.

The day was created to recognize those who have valiantly fought for change so that the world can become better and brighter for future generations. The theme for the 2019 International Day of Peace is “Climate Action for Peace.”

One of the hot topics around the world is climate change and what we can do to fight it. It may seem like a big task to take on but there are things everyone can do in their community to help battle climate change.

For example, people can:

  • Volunteer
  • Conduct Tidy-Ups around the community
  • Donate
  • Support Local Businesses

How Climate Changes The World

socialeffectsClimate change does not affect one area of the world, but the whole globe. The extreme heat and cold are making it so that older and younger people are suffering the most.

The spike in heat, which can cause wildfires in areas more susceptible, like California, and it drives wildlife out of their homes and into other areas that pose a threat to them.

People have begun relying more and more on HVAC systems, which stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The use of these systems adversely destroys our ozone layer if they are environmentally friendly. Then if they are left on all day and night with zero regulations this drives up the energy use and costs.

Leveraging Your Thermostat & HVAC System

programmablethermostatsThe best way to combat high costs and energy use when using the HVAC systems is through programmable thermostats. They help people use up to 30% less energy in their house and are easy for anyone to use.

The purpose of programmable thermostats is that homeowners can put it on a timer, so that if they go to bed or fall asleep accidentally and do not want the air running the whole night then it will shut off automatically when it hits the timer limit. Also, it can be programmed to turn out when the room reaches a certain temperature.

Celebrate by Planting a Tree

plantatreeIt is common knowledge that trees and plants provide the oxygen necessary to sustain human life and without it, people would cease to exist. This was discovered recently and by then countless trees had been cut down and destroyed for recreational purposes.

Now, it’s up to people to try to get the tree population thriving again. A way people can help is to plant a tree. It is safe, easy and does not cost a bucketful of money to do. Trees take a long time to grow to their maturity level and the sooner people begin planting the trees the better off everyone will be.

These are just a few ways that people can help fight against change, but it is up to humanity to put the work in. It does not have to be life-changing or difficult, every little bit helps. Like taking shorter showers, walking when running errands, or opting for a bike instead of your car. There is only one world and it can’t be taken for granted.

Back to School: Learning About Your HVAC System

hvacsystem

Back to School: Learning About Your HVAC System

Summer vacation will soon be over and the kids headed back to the classroom. Temperatures are hot and with education fresh in your mind, why not take some time to learn about your HVAC system?

In this article, we’ll visit how your heating and air conditioning system works, what goes into proper maintenance, and how to know when it requires repair. Let’s dive in!

How Your HVAC System Works

hvacsystemIf you’re currently feeling cool and comfortable, thank your HVAC system; it works hard every day to ensure your home is kept at the right temperature.

The reason it’s important to understand how your cooling and heating system works is it will help you to better maintain it and know when it’s time for repairs or replacement.

There are three different air systems:

  • Forced Air Systems - The most commonly used HVAC system and what you probably have in your home. This system takes hot and cold air and forces it through a series of metal ductwork that runs through your home.
  • Radiant Systems - This system heats the floors, walls, and ceilings in your home.
  • Gravity Systems - With a gravity system it rises to the ceiling as it’s heated then sinks back down to the floor and basement as it’s cooled again.

Multiple components make up your HVAC system, including:

  • Air Conditioner - This component reduces the temperature in your home by sending hot air out and cold air in.
  • Furnace - Using gas, the furnace uses a heat exchanger to heat your home’s air.
  • Thermostat - This is the device used to control your HVAC system and ensure it’s operating in the way you need.

The Importance of HVAC System Maintenance

Your HVAC system silently and diligently performs its tasks to keep your home’s temperatures regulated; when it’s not working, however, you’ll notice pretty quickly. To prevent an unwanted shutdown of your system, it’s important to monitor and perform regular system maintenance. Here’s how:

  • hvacsystemmaintenanceEnsure that your filters are replaced every 4-6 weeks. This keeps air flowing freely and helps to eliminate allergens.
  • Keep your outdoor unit free and clear of debris so it doesn’t overheat.
  • Have your ductwork inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure there are no blockages and air can move freely.
  • Make sure your system is inspected by a licensed HVAC system at least twice a year, especially when seasons change.

How to Keep Up With HVAC Repair

hvacrepairYou rely a lot on your HVAC system. It keeps you warm in winter, cool in the summer, and makes sure you and your family are breathing clean air.

It’s essential that you keep your system maintained so it can last you for years to come, however, it’s also important to recognize when it needs repair or replacement.

  • If it’s more than 10 years old, it should be replaced. This is especially because it won’t be as energy efficient as it could be - which costs you more money!
  • If you notice loud sounds coming from your unit, have it looked at right away. It could be in some trouble.
  • If you notice you’re heat or air is difficult to regulate, it may indicate a problem.
  • Frayed or exposed wiring indicates a need for service ASAP. Your HVAC unit should be kept in good working condition to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

If you think your HVAC system is due for a check-up, repair, or replacement - don’t delay, call Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning today at (617) 566-6990! We’ll schedule a licensed and experienced technician to come to your home right away.

Let’s Celebrate National HVAC Technician Day!

hvactechnican

Let’s Celebrate National HVAC Technician Day!

Every year on June 22nd we like to take time out to celebrate all of our skilled Boston HVAC technicians! While we always want to appreciate and recognize our HVAC technician employees, we want to give you all a special mention today, on your designated holiday.

That’s why we seek to promote culture in our company that supports you daily in your job, as you are our very core and the reason that we all have jobs!

If you’re reading this and you don’t know what HVAC technician does, today is your lucky day! We’re going to discuss how important these tradesmen are, not only to our company but also to society in general.

How We Recruit The Best HVAC Technicians

recruitingtechniciansThe first step, and often the most difficult, is learning how to recruit the most top-notch HVAC technicians out there for your team.

Knowing how to recognize them is the most important place to start so, today, we’ll start there as well.

In Massachusetts, unlike in other states, HVAC technicians do not need to hold any active general HVAC certifications.

This means that they can start practicing either right out of high school or completion of a technical college course. However, in order to legally practice here in Boston, they must actively hold an EPA certification to work with refrigeration products.

HVAC technicians are also required to pass a written exam to prove mastery of all of the necessary elements (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units). At Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning, we only hire HVAC technicians that hold both all applicable knowledge as well as that optional certification. We believe this makes for the most qualified, and best, employees.

How Are Our Living Conditions Without HVAC Technicians?

livingconditionsDo you know exactly what HVAC technicians contribute to life here in Boston? Let’s run through it for a moment.

It’s easy to underestimate the number of things in your life that rely on either air conditioning, heating, or refrigeration.

If we didn’t have HVAC technicians around to fix them, we wouldn’t have access to safely refrigerated food.

We couldn’t control the temperatures at work or at home. Our clothes would have to be hand washed and hung out to dry. Our everyday lives would have to change significantly, and definitely not for the best. Our HVAC technician heroes really do make our lives both enjoyable and, most importantly, liveable.

What Are the Responsibilities of an HVAC Technician?

In order to successfully do their job, all HVAC technicians have the same set of daily responsibilities to complete.

  • hvacresponsibilitiesProvide the initial installation of all HVAC related products (air conditioners, heaters, and other air quality systems)
  • Provide the maintenance of all HVAC related products (air conditioners, heaters, and other air quality systems), while identifying any risk factors
  • Provide repairs on all HVAC related products (air conditioners, heaters, and other air quality systems), including diagnosing related electrical and/or mechanical faults
  • Will perform any applicable warranty services
  • Will provide all necessary emergency repair in a timely manner
  • Assists with all related customer queries
  • Must keep accurate, up to date daily logbooks
  • Must comply with all mandatory OSHA laws/standards

So not only today, on National HVAC Technician Day, but also every other day of the year… make sure that you take the time to thank any HVAC technicians in your life. Without them, we would have any of the things that make modern life wonderful. They deserve to be told that frequently, as they literally change our lives.

In addition, if you’re interested in pursuing a career as an HVAC technician, please give us a call! We’d be happy to talk to you and help you during the process. Good luck, and happy HVAC Technician Day!