By Herb Woerpel, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration NEWS

Known as such monikers as “fly-by-nighters,” “chuck-in-a-truck,” and “moonlighters,” unlicensed contractors are likely approaching homeowners in your neighborhood right now.  While these under-the-table workers may offer what seems like a great bargain, their discounted prices may end up costing much more in the end.

A DANGEROUS DECISION

In states that require licensing, unlicensed contractors are able to offer reduced rates because they have not paid their licensing fees, haven’t obtained a bond that protects their work, and likely are not carrying liability or worker’s compensation insurance.  It is very unlikely the contractor has pulled the necessary building permits, which may suggest the work is being done outside of code requirements.

A homeowner that hires an unlicensed contractor in a state or municipality that requires licensing could be considered in violation of the law.  In addition to partaking in criminal activity, one slip or fall from the unlicensed handyman may land the homeowner in court, as the worker may file a negligence lawsuit against the homeowner, which likely will not be covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy.

Regardless if a state requires an HVAC license, Section 608 of the Clean Air Act states that all persons involved in the handling, transfer, maintenance, or installation of equipment that contains refrigerants regulated by federal law must be certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  It is a violation of the law to work under somebody else’s certification.

“Contractors who do not follow the laws on licensing or Section 608 compliance take advantage of homeowners, undercut legitimate contractors, and give the industry a bad name,” said Charlie McCrudden, vice president of government affairs, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).  “Despite the scope of this problem, it is in the best interest of all to rid the industry of those who cheat the system.”

STATE-BY-STATE DISPARITY

One of the most glaring inconsistencies in the HVAC contracting trade is the array of licensing requirements across the 50 states.

According to Chris Prince, contractor licensing expert with Nationalcontractor.com, a total of 30 states require HVAC contracting licenses.  The other 20 states may require registration, bonding, insurance mandates, or licensing per local municipality, but do not require state HVAC licensing. 

HVAC contractors operating inCalifornianeed to obtain both a contracting license from the department of consumer affairs’ contractor state license board and a business license from the city and county in which they serve.

The state ofMinnesotadoes not license HVAC contractors, but does require that contractors file a $25,000 bond with the state.

InWisconsin, an HVAC contractor is only required to sign up and pay a fee to practice within the trade.

“Wisconsin does not have an HVAC licensing requirement that requires training or examination, but does require registration, which a contractor may receive by simply signing up and paying a fee,” said Katie Koschnick, public information officer, Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.  “We encourage local building inspectors to request contractor credential number when issuing permits.”

Just across Lake Michigan, the state ofMichiganrequires that contractors obtain a mechanical contractor’s license.  The fee is $75 and applicants must pass two written exams, prove they have three years of experience, and possess good moral character.  In addition to state permits, manyMichigancounties and cities require additional licensing. 

“With the advent of increased permits being required, there appears to be more Internet and weekend installation sales by either unlicensed contractors or contractor’s employees doing side jobs,” said Ron Sandelius, executive director, ACCA –Michiganchapter.  “It is hard for a legitimate contractor to be competitive.  For example, on a power vent water heater, a contractor has to pull a mechanical permit, a plumbing permit, and an electrical permit.  The cost of these permits alone puts the legitimate contractor at a disadvantage.”

TAKING A STAND

Ken Bodwell, owner of Innovative Service Solutions,Orlando,Fla., had spearheaded a formal rally against unlicensed contractor activity inFlorida.

Bodwell is the education committee chair of ACCA –Florida, and along with his chapter cohorts, he has presented town hall meetings inMiami,Tampa,Orlando, Port S. Lucie, and many other regions throughout the state.  The gatherings are designed to raise awareness and establish long-term solutions to reduce unlicensed contractor activity.

“I think as a licensed contractor, I have always permitted jobs and was proud to post my license number on the vans.  I typically turned a blind eye to the unlabeled white trucks with telltale refrigerant gauges and tanks in the back window because it did not affect me, but I also knew it wasn’t the lawn guy,” he said.  “As I learned more about unlicensed activity, I was more upset with the image and damage these unlicensed contractors were doing to our struggling residential air conditioning industry.”

Hundreds of contractors attended the ACCA –Floridameetings, sharing their thoughts on potential causes including wholesalers selling to unlicensed contractors, Internet sales, appliance repairmen acting as licensed industry experts, and more.  Proposed solutions included raising fines, increasing awareness, requiring that homeowners include a contractor’s license number upon warranty registration, and more.

“I believe this is an issue of health, safety, and welfare of the homeowner.  They are the ones at risk if the equipment is improperly installed,” said Bodwell.  “Building codes are in place to ensure consumers are getting a safe, proper installation.  Without permitting, there is no guarantee this is happening. 

“As far as state and local municipalities, they are losing tax and permitting revenue.  I think a contractor should truly sell on value and demonstrate that upfront, price should not be the only consideration when making an investment of this size – that reputation, permitting, and insurance are critical components in the selection process.”

Francis Dietz, vice president of public affairs, Air-Conditioning Heating & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) said equipment is best utilized when installed by an educated professional.

“AHRI believes that licensed contractors that employ NATE [North American Technician Excellence] certified technicians raise the bar for our industry and go a long way toward ensuring that equipment is properly sized, matched and installed,” he said.  “Properly installed equipment is more likely to keep customers happy, reduce warranty claims, and benefit the industry’s image.”

McCrudden said ACCA is creating a template for all states to follow – regardless of licensing requirements.  “ACCA is developing model state legislation that could be used in states where licensing is not required,” he said.  “Developing a possible solution is only half the battle.  The other half is getting more states and localities to enact licensing and then enforce these provisions.  The local authority responsible for licensing should make enforcement a priority to protect contractors and homeowners from those who skirt the laws.”

Todd B. McAlister, executive director, ACCA –Texas, said licensed contractors should proactively speak up on behalf of the industry.

“Don’t use suppliers who sell to unlicensed contractors and turn in unlicensed activity to either the local enforcement agency or your local ACCA chapter,” he said.  “ManyTexaschapters have programs such as ‘Bag-a-Bootlegger’ in which they work closely with local building officials to try and catch those who are performing unlicensed work.  Unlicensed activity that goes unchecked ends up laying the groundwork for others to feel as if they can now jump into the business and start operating illegally.”

Jaime DiDomenico, president and owner, N&M CoolToday,Sarasota,Fla., said unlicensed contractors are misrepresenting those that have earned the right to call themselves professionals.

“They represent themselves as us.  If it were a case where clients knew these individuals were unlicensed, or could prove it, the story would be different,” he said.  “We should be appalled and disgusted by this behavior.  We cannot allow this to be a representation of us.”

Robbie Bailey, home comfort designer, Aire Serv, Knoxville, Tenn., said quality work will always trump cheap labor.

“The key to success is to sell yourself and your company – not a price,” he said.  “If we can provide proof to our customers that they are getting a quality company with the licensing and technical knowledge behind their work, price should never be an objection that we cannot overcome.”

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By Linda Jennings, showroom specialist, PHC News

Uplifting and energizing, it’s no surprise that kitchen and bath showrooms and the design community as a whole are quickly embracing Tangerine Tango, Pantone’s 2012 Color of the Year.  According to a report released by the Associated Press, “The world doesn’t need more gray, and the blues are covered, too.  What consumer products need is a jolt, a shot of energy and boldness, all of which comes from Tangerine Tango, the reddish-orange hue that Pantone announced as its top color for 2012.” 

Over the past several years, orange has grown in popularity and acceptance among designers and consumers.  A provocative attention-getter, Tangerine Tango is appealing in not only fashion and home décor but its also making its way into luxury kitchens and baths. 

“Color can be a mood lifter, which is why we chose Tangerine Tango,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.  “We thought that would be the perfect color, one that will get people’s attention.” 

Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is already appearing in plumbing and decorative hardware showrooms as well as high-end homes and even hotels.  Victoria + Albert’s freestanding tubs, while regal in white, become fabulously glamorous when painted in the luscious color.  The freestanding tub has always been the centerpiece of the bath, and for today’s consumer looking to add vibrant style,Victoria+ Albert’s tubs allow customer painting of their exteriors.  The tubs are made from eco-friendly Englishcast® , having a smooth exterior surface easy to decorate using either oil or water based paints.  And when it comes to custom decorating Tangerine Tango is hands-down the year’s color of choice. 

Pyrolave countertop surfaces can be ordered in similar radiant sunset shades, adding impact and exotic flair to any décor.  From residential and commercial kitchens to bathrooms, tabletops, swimming pools, fireplace facades and outdoor living spaces, the glazed lava stone surfaces are perfectly at home in contemporary or traditional settings. 

While the striking good looks of Pyrolave speak for themselves, the engineering process goes deep beneath the surface.  Volvic lava stone is extracted from the heart of volcanic craters inAuvergne,France.  Blocks of stone are mined and then cut into slabs, imbued with gloriously-hued enamels and fired at temperatures exceeding 1000°C.  The finished masterpiece can withstand almost anything – high temperatures, acids, corrosive products – making these surfaces as durable as they are visually captivating. 

Orange–hued patters are also capturing attention, particularly in unlikely spaces.  KOHLER’s Ipanema bathroom sink features oversized patterns and mini-prints in vivid, contrasting colors, pieced together eclectically, taking inspiration from some of the most hip fashion trends of today.  Part of the Top Art Collection and named for the popular beach inRiode Janeiro, the Ipanema infuses both positive energy and playfulness into is surroundings and naturally lends itself to coordinating orange accessories.

For a pop of color in the bath, Decolav’s intensely vivid 2806 Magma Lavatory Sink from their Incandescence™ Collection does not disappoint.  Crafted from resin, this designer lavatory is not only durable, but extremely easy to care for.  The uniqueness of this sink is its ability to be used as both an above counter vessel or a semi-recessed lavatory, due to it’s gently sloping sides.  It’s sure to add a touch of excitement. 

Tangerine Tango looks great on tile, too and can be used on walls or floors in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, hallways and almost any other living space you can think of.  Go lux with Italian tiles; choose patterns to accent and solids for larger projects.  The beauty of handmade Italian tile is unmistakable and even more mesmerizing when created in such a spirited color.

For a quick Tangerine Tango fix, Atlas Homeware offers its vibrant Indochine series of knobs and pulls.  On cabinetry and furniture that needs a boost, there is really is nothing quite like a squirt of tangerine.  Whether you choose a one-inch cone, two-inch round knob, or five-inch pull, these shapes combined with color have attitude.  Inexpensive and easy to install, they add budget-friendly instant, high-voltage style.

“I love this color because it romances the consumer…I see hot summer nights, playful encounters in the town piazza, and retro fashion at its liveliest”, says Adrienne Morea, CEO and Creative Director of Atlas Homewares.  “Dull, boring or uninterested consumers need not apply!”

Aquabrass’ Lady Chef kitchen faucet adds a jolt of color to the kitchen with its orange retro colored spirals.  The professional pull down spray kitchen faucet will give you motivation to host dinner parties as an excuse to show it off!

Every room in the home can get a jolt of energy by incorporating a splash of Pantone’s new Tangerine Tango 2012 color of the year.  The best way to use this TANGERINE color trend is to introduce just a small accent – like a knob on a bedside cabinet; pillows on a sofa; a fabulous orange-ish red serving bowl on the center of the dining room table with matching napkins; or even tangerine colored soaps in the bathroom.  This also is a great time to bring out your vintage Fiesta Ware…An orange plate and cup for the table or an orange mixing bowl on the kitchen counter will bring this classic dinnerware into the current.

For those a bit more daring, experiment with painting one wall tangerine for a drama point.  And for those who have a passion for color, go bolder with an orange-painted claw foot tub in the bath or an orange countertop in the kitchen.  This year, it’s all about color and creating a point of drama, and kitchen and bath showrooms need to gear up for this emerging color trend. 

Tangerine Tango takes us boldly into the new year with confidence.  Eismann perhaps put it best when she said, “There’s the element of encouragement with orange, it’s building on the ideas of courage and action, that we want to move on to better things.”  It’s definitely time to Tango!

Get the Look!

For more info on the trends mentioned here go to:

Atlas Homewares

800-799-6755

www.atlashomewares.com

PyrolaveUSA

919-788-8953

www.pyrolave.com

Victoria + Albert

500-421-7189

www.vandabaths.com

Decolav

561-274-2110

www.decolav.com

Aquabrass

514-381-4141

www.aquabrass.com

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By Herb Woerpel, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration NEWS

While spring officially starts tomorrow, several HVAC contractors are still waiting for winter to arrive.  The national average temperature across the 48 contiguous states in January was 36.3-5.5 degrees above the 1901-2000 average, according to the national Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Climactic Data Center.  Data Shows January was the fourth warmest on record since 1895 and the warmest since 2006.

“We are experiencing the warmest winter we’ve had in many years. said John McCarthy Sr., Owner of McCarthy’s One Hour Heating and Cooling, Omaha, Neb. “We only get a few days of cold and then it warms back up.  It is usually the total opposite.”

HEAT WAVE

Arizona, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming all experienced January temperatures which were among their 10 warmest.  Florida and Washington were the only states with near average temperatures.  No state experienced cooler than average weather according to NOAA.

Scientists believe the above average temperatures are caused by changes in Arctic winds, referred to as the North Arctic Oscillation (NOA), which redirects snow and cold. The low air pressure in the Arctic region creates a jet stream that blocks cold air from leaving and causes winds to spin faster this winter, keeping cold temperatures farther north than usual.

The emergence of La Nina is also playing a factor in warm winter temperatures.  La Nina is characterized by usually cold ocean temperatures in the eastern equatorial Pacific, as compared to El Nino, which is characterized by usually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific. La Nina tends to bring nearly opposite effects of El Nino – wetter than normal conditions across the Pacific Northwest and dryer and warmer than normal conditions across much of the southern tier.

“A positive NOA means the low that’s normally near Iceland, and the highest-pressure area near the Azores, is stronger than normal,” said Chris Orr, certified consulting meteorologist. “The result is a stronger than normal jet stream on a more northerly track.  This jet stream has kept the really cold air over Northern Canada and Alaska.

“But, it’s more complicated than that because we have to factor in La Nina and El Nino.  Right now, we’re starting to see La Nina phase out, and we’re going to a neutral pattern across the tropical Pacific by the end of spring.”

FEWER FURNACE CALLS

Contractors nationwide are reporting fewer installations and in some cases staffing reductions, due to above average temperatures. “Because of the weather, we’re experiencing fewer calls and have reduced the hours of work for our tech,” said McCarthy Sr, “The replacement market was hit hard and we had to lay off office staff, but we’ve stayed steady in our service staff.  Our installation staff has painted, cleaned, and arranged our ship this year as much as possible.”

Paul Wadsworth, owner of P.K. Wadsworth Heating and Cooling Inc., Cleveland, said warm temperatures have negatively affected his bottom line.

“It has been unseasonably warm; we’ve been off about 17 percent on heating degree days since November,” He said. “we’ve experienced a softness this year and our year to year sales are definitely down.  Of course, we have also seen the end of the tax credit that stimulated business in 2010 and 2011, and the cost of natural gas in at a low, which is further depressing utility bills.”

Matt Marsiglio, service manager at Flame Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical, Detroit, said his company has received fewer demand service calls and less non maintenance, furnace inspection calls.  Because of the mild weather, the company has had to implement layoffs across multiple departments.

“Southeastern Michigan has been well above average in terms of temperatures while precipitation and snow have fallen below average,” he said.  “This is by no means what we’d call a typical Michigan winter.  It sounds horrible to say, but the worse the weather, the busier we are.  As much as I would like to believe we’re not weather dependent, this winter’s war temperatures have caused us to tighten our belts and watch every penny we spend.”

Isaac Heating and Air Conditioning Inc., Rochester, N.Y.; issued a few temporary seasonal layoffs this winter, but no more than usual, said president Ray Isaac.

“The winter has been terrible for business, but thankfully for a strong service agreement base, home energy audits, solid national accounts in a commercial service, and some sizable commercial construction projects, we are holding our won,” he said.

Brian Miller, residential sales manager at H.A. Thompson &Sons, Bismark, N.D., added, “It’s pretty tough to sell furnaces when it’s always 40 degrees out.”

Several companies including Team Bob’s heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, Travers City, Michigan, and Beckman Brothers Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning, Grayslake, IL, are offering special promotions including rebates, interest free sales agreements, energy efficiency loan applications, and more to overcome slumping revenues.

“Having 50 degree weather in January in Chicago has been great fun for many of us, but for the ice rink managers snow plow operators, and HVAC company owners it’s created more than a few challenges,” said the Beckmand Bros. Inc, website. “Well it’s time to turn our challenges into opportunities through promotions.”

NOT ALL BAD NEWS

While the warm winter has been burden for some, it’s been a boom for others. “The National Weather Service records this winter as the third warmest so far across the frozen tundra.” said Chris N. Linn, vice president of marketing and development, Bassett Mechanical Kaukauna, Wisconsin.  “Snow fall is way down, which makes it less hazardous to access rooftop and other outdoor equipment.  Counter to what some might think, our service business has continued to grow and it up about 12% over last winter.  We’ve seen a good level of projects with existing customers and call-in work from new customers.  We haven’t had to lay off technicians, and we’ve actually hired additional salespeople.”

Steve Conforti, project manager at WK Mechanical Inc. in Monroe, N.Y. said his most recent rise in production is directly related to inclement weather.

We are certainly dealing with extreme weather.  It is about 50 degrees right now and usually it is about 28,” he said.  “Our service calls have been a bit slow, but thanks to some really extreme weather events, this has been our busiest year ever.

“We were hit with Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, which actually really helped us. Units needed to be replaced, and then we caught a wave of people looking to upgrade.  The unfortunate weather has actually worked in our favor.”

HOPING FOR A HOT SUMMER

NOAA is predicting a warmer drier spring in the Southern States and colder moths across the Northeastern United States.

“We expect La Nina’s impact to continue, even as the episode weakens.  February to April, there is an increased chance of above average temperatures across the South central and Southeastern U.S.,” reported NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center’s Three month seasonal outlook.

Meteorologist Orr expects spring and summer to be hot and sticky. “I expect a warmer and stormier than normal spring for most of the country, “he said. “There will be surges of cold air from the north every week, but these will only last a day or two at any one spot as the storm systems whip along with the fast jet stream.  This will also bring more severe weather to the country, especially affecting areas east of Billings, Montana, to St. Louis.”

Contractors are hopeful the winter heat wave will carry over to the summer months. “We have no idea what the spring will bring, but we have our fingers crossed and are hoping for the best,” said Marsiglio. “A perfect wish would be high temperatures and high humidity.  All we need is a little warm up, and we’ll be going strong.”

While shipments are down, the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) remains optimistic the market will reconvene this spring.

“The mild winter has affected shipments of heating products and likely caused some consumers to defer the replacement of equipment that is nearing the end of its useful life.” said Stephen Yurek, AHRI president and CEO. “But, if you look at historical shipment numbers, there is pent-up demand due to economic conditions that warmer winter weather can forestall only for so long.

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A programmable thermostat may be a little pricey up front, but can easily cut down your electric bills as well as make your life easier.  By setting a daily schedule based on your lifestyle you never have to worry about leaving the thermostat set too low or too high.  By using the same schedule every day, the unit uses less energy which causes your electric bill to decrease.  Some thermostats can alert you to change your filter, or point out potential problems with the system.  The top of the line stats can even give live weather reports, and show the performance of the system.  They can also be controlled by cell phones or laptops for you to monitor your home from work or while traveling.   If you are interested in getting a new thermostat or more information on them, Total Maintenance, Inc. can help.  Call us at 504-899-8911.

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The Energy Star program was started in the early ‘90’s by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to try to cut down on energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by power plants.  Since then it has evolved and now includes appliances, home electronics, as well as heating and cooling systems.  Energy Star heat pumps, air conditioning systems and furnaces are available (and sold by Total Maintenance, Inc.!)  Another way to decrease your heating and cooling bills is to seal the ducts in your home.  This prevents attic or basement air from entering the ducts and lessening your systems efficiency.  If you are interested in a new Energy Star system or duct sealing, call us at 504-899-8911! 

Next month: Find out how Energy Star lighting can help you lower your bills.

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Each month Total Maintenance will feature one of our great employees. This month we’d like to introduce you to Shea Griffith.

Name: Shea Griffith
Nickname: Grif
Job Title: Residential Installer
Age: 31
Married? Yes
Children? Yes – 1 girl
Pets? Yes – A Yorkie
If you were an animal, what kind would you be? An Eagle
Do you like Post-it Notes? Yes, they’re awesome!
Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of bees? Bear
Do you chew your pens/pencils? Yes
How many languages can you speak? One
Do you believe in ghosts? No
Which are better – black or green olives? I hate both!
Can you hold your breath without holding your nose? Yes.
Can you curl your tongue? No.
Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some? I’d carry it in my pants.

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