It may seem to be a contradiction in terms, but thermostat manufacturers say their products are simultaneously becoming simpler and more complex. According to some leading manufacturers, the trends in future thermostat design are all about balancing the desires of consumers for simple, intuitive controls while also enhancing the diagnostic, technical, and communication capabilities.
What
obstacles do commercial controls contractors face today? And what are the best
approaches and trends that aid them in developing workable solutions for their
customers? One man with a wealth of experience who can answer these questions
is Richard “Dick” Starr, president and CEO of The Enterprise Corp.
Just
recently the Dow Jones dropped 260 points in one day, making it negative for
the year. As doubts about an economic recovery send consumers into a selling
frenzy, there’s a ray of light at the end of the tunnel if you’re an HVAC
contractor.
Furnace installations may not be on the top of a contractor’s list in the midst of the cooling season, but providing comfort before it is needed may be an excellent business strategy for those who can find the time. Waiting until the weather turns cold could leave a customer searching for ways to get warm and stay warm.
Key
changes in Public Version 2.0 of the International Green Construction Code
(IGCC), scheduled for release in November, will include more efficient plumbing
fixtures, air-handling systems, and responsibilities of design professionals
and building owners.
In addition to the 2010 Residential Heating Showcase product grid, The NEWS is spotlighting the industry’s latest residential heating products in this photo feature. The manufacturers provided us with the brief descriptions of features included with each product.
Direct Energy has completed its acquisition of Clockwork Home Services Inc. Following approval by Clockwork’s shareholders and U.S. regulatory approval, the combined Direct Energy Services and Clockwork Inc.® business is now considered to be North America’s largest provider of heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services.
Economic hard times have changed the overall landscape of business in America. With companies learning to operate leaner, leaving many workers without a place to go, there is a growing trend of displaced workers starting their own businesses. Knowing this, The NEWS began asking contractors what it took to start, maintain, and grow a successful HVACR business.
Today, homeowners face often-complicated questions regarding a variety of tax credits, utility rebates, and manufacturer incentives. In the search for answers, homeowners are bringing many of these questions to their HVAC contractor. For contractors, this means assuming the expanded role of energy efficiency expert.
A refrigerant manufacturer and supermarket chains headquartered in Arizona, Iowa, and Ohio are the latest to be involved in the GreenChill Advanced Refrigeration Partnership of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
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