Maryland recently became the first state to recognize geothermal heating and cooling as a renewable energy source. This has many leaders in the geothermal industry hoping this helps serve as a motivator to the other 49 states.
Over the last few decades, rooftop units have moved ahead with numerous technological advances. Both light (3- to 25-ton units) and large commercial packaged rooftop systems (25 tons and up) have matured in style and substance, now offering cleaner air, lower operating costs, more efficient performance, and more.
Boasting better efficiency, cleaner air, stronger structures, and more, the industry’s newest rooftop units (RTUs) and air handling units (AHUs) offer numerous benefits for both commercial and residential facilities.
The Fluke Corp. recently welcomed 80 individuals, including trade press editors from six countries, to its Everett, Wash., headquarters for its 2012 press summit. What did attendees see and learn during their visit?
Weldon Long was once a poverty-stricken drug addict caged behind bars with no hope. Today, just seven years removed from his last prison term, Long, 48, is a successful HVAC contractor, motivational speaker, author, and sales trainer. He built his empire on personal responsibility and proven sales tactics.
At a recent industry event in Ohio, I heard how consistency changed the life of Weldon Long, former convict and now highly successful HVAC contractor and motivational speaker.
Starting Sept. 1, 2012, all residential boilers must be manufactured to meet new minimum federal efficiency standards. Residential gas hot water boilers must meet 82 percent AFUE; gas steam boilers, 80 percent; oil hot water boilers, 84 percent; and oil steam boilers, 82 percent.
A number of the industry’s certification and accrediting organizations are busy crafting training programs that will define the industry’s next generation. Many are quick to acknowledge that technology is, and will continue to be, the leading factor guiding present and future development.
According to HVAC Excellence, 65.6 percent of service technicians in the HVACR industry will not be in the industry in eight years. The next generation is now in the classroom learning skills to match the demands of the market, and there is a growing sense of the need to recruit those who will serve as the technicians of the future.
Should a state-endorsed apprenticeship council be allowed to limit the number of training programs, and their locations, within a certain state? Is this power unconstitutional? That question will soon come before a judge in the state of California.
