Searching for the Perfect Line…

Skiing is in my blood. Always has been. It’s impossible not to be impressed with the snow-capped peaks scraping along the edge of the sky. Our snow, downy and dry, is the best I’ve ever ridden (all due respect to our neighbors’ claims). For me, in the midst of the mountains and the snow and the terrain and the trees there’s a mystery—there’s a perfect line that I know is out there, somewhere, and I never stop looking for it. There’s a perfect tree run, a secret bowl, a drop that puts me waist deep in powder. Finally, there’s a smile and a brightness I feel when it all starts to come together. Surfer’s call this feeling ‘the stoke.’ I don’t know what I call it but it’s my own version of the Endless Summer that keeps me coming back to the mountains. My perfect run is out there waiting for me to find it, to carve it, to claim it… 

It seems like a pretty big leap to make a comparison to the elation I feel in the mountains and the pride I feel as a business owner. The two appear to be very different worlds. On the surface they are. But there’s always more to it than meets the eye. I look for perfection in both worlds. I look at the details of my job and at everything we do at Main Street Heating and Cooling with the same passion that drives me down the slopes. I scrutinize the planning, our people, materials, equipment, and the installation of our products with the same passion that I use to evaluate a snow report, my ski gear, and the terrain. It’s always the details that make the difference. For me, the passion for perfection carries over perfectly. 

I’m sharing this with you because there is a difference between imagining perfection and relentlessly going after it every single day. Main Street Heating and Cooling is more than just another service company. We never set out to fall in to the middle of the bell curve. Our commitment to the perfect installation, the perfect service maintenance, and the perfect customer experience is rooted in the same passion that sends me to the mountains year after year. It never ends. I know that our sales, service, and installation teams share the same ‘stoke’ for getting it right and doing it better than anyone else. There’s nothing accidental about this. It’s the characteristic that we all have in common. 

Winter will pass and I’ll move on to mountain biking and trail running. I know our customers, however, will be living in their homes regardless of the weather. I know that they’ll be living better lives, saving money, feeling comfortable. Our dedication to the perfect installation ensures that how they live is a reflection of how we do our job. Nothing less than perfection will suffice. 

See you up on the hill, 

Doug

From our Family to Yours: Happy Holidays from Main Street Heating and Cooling!

It seems like the holiday shopping “season” comes earlier and earlier each year.  From Black Friday to Cyber Monday the expectations to start buying gifts as soon as possible has become the norm.    But this year the team at Main Street Heating and Cooling is focusing on the things that you can’t put a price tag on: Our traditions. 

Every family has their own traditions—the small rituals that keep us grounded and remind us that the holiday season is about being thankful for the wonderful blessings in our lives.  These traditions, many of which have been with us since we were kids, are the thoughtful reminders that people rather than presents are the better meaning of the holidays.

My family traditions started with storytelling.  Every season our dad would read the story of the birth of Christ out of Luke hand written on a wood and leather scroll that my oldest brother made (he always was a little bit of an overachiever and we love him for it!).  Our stockings always had peanuts and oranges in them.  No idea how that started but over time it didn’t matter—it was part of how we “did” the holidays together.  As an adult and a father I look back on those times differently than I did as a child.  The simplicity of something as seemingly easy as an orange or a handful of peanuts is a symbol of caring, of giving, of love.  These are the things that Brent and I are carrying over to our own families these days.

As a father I want my children to also understand the importance of simple giving.  My wife always makes sure that we support a family in need during the holidays.  We know that we are incredibly fortunate in our lives and feel it’s equally important that our children appreciate not only their blessings but the significance of helping those who are less fortunate.  We also make sure to open our home to friends who’s family and loved ones live far away.  For us, the spirit of giving extends beyond the gifts under the tree (which, by the way, we open Christmas eve).  I can’t say enough about the importance that helping others plays in our lives.

Of course, the holiday season can’t be complete without a visit to our parents.  Over the years I’ve been perfecting a chocolate cheesecake recipe that’s become my “go to” contribution to our holiday dinner.  Somehow, mysteriously, there’s always a piece of cheesecake missing by the time we’re ready to head over to the in-laws.  My kids deny knowing who the culprit is…and then smile.  It cracks us all up.

Over the years, I’ve strived to teach my children that the holiday season is about so much more than receiving gifts.  It’s about giving gifts.  And the gifts that I want them to remember, the traditions that I want them to understand, are that we—all of us—can give of ourselves in better and richer ways all year long.  The season of giving is something that should never be confined by a few weeks on a calendar.  It’s something that should be part of who we are and what we do all year long.  Traditions are reminders of these things.  Small gestures that put a smile on our face or make us laugh can be magnified many time over.  All it takes is an open heart, a warm smile, and little acts of kindness.

Our traditions have been part of my family for years.  It’s a privilege to share them with you.  So from my family to yours, and with the warmest wishes from the Main Street Heating and Cooling family, we wish you a fantastic holiday season.

Movember Madness and a Helping Those in Need

November has been an incredible month for the team at Main Street Heating and Cooling. First, we want to say “thank you” to the friends and clients who continually support our work as Utah’s heating, air conditioning, and service leader. We’re deeply grateful. Also, we want to thank the many people who have supported Main Street Movember and have generously donated to our food bank outreach. We also want to send out best thoughts and wishes to #SFBatkid, Miles Scott.

Like millions of people across the country we were touched by Miles, the San Francisco “Bat Kid” and his amazing adventures. Thanks to the Make-a-Wish foundation we watched a city, then a nation, make Miles’ dream of saving Gotham come true. It was a touching, human reminder that we all play small roles in helping each other live better lives. Go get ‘em Miles!

As you can see by the picture, Movember has turned in to Beardvember here at Main Street. It’s not exactly by the Movember rules, but Brent’s wife sort of put her foot down on his handlebar moustache. Plus, we didn’t think that Brent could actually grow a full beard. Turns out we were wrong about the beard but very right about the importance of supporting the Movember Movement. Men from around the world are proudly sharing their “Mo’s” in order to bring funding and awareness to men’s health issues. Main Street Heating and Cooling is equally proud to be involved and support this outstanding moustache movement. Can’t say that Brent’s wife is totally on board yet but there’s always 2014!

Finally, Main Street Heating and Cooling is contributing to a local food bank. Helping people feel comfortable in their homes is what we do as a business. But what if the people living in the homes are going hungry? According to a 2012 study, 15.8% or nearly one in six Utah households suffer from food hardships. The number of Utah families requiring food assistance has increased 269%. Food hardships have a ripple effect ranging from health problems to lost time at work to poor academic performance. This year Main Street Heating and Cooling is supporting the South Valley Food Bank. Please give us a call or send us an email if you’d like to learn how to help us ensure that no family goes hungry this holiday season.

So as we head towards Thanksgiving, everyone here at Main Street Heating and Cooling wishes you, your family, and your loved ones a fantastic Thanksgiving!

Move Over for Movember!!

Look out everyone! This November Doug and Brent are growing moustaches in Movember. Movember is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for some of the most common health problems men face today. Plus, moustaches are, well, manly (and Brent needs a little more “manly”). Never heard of Movember? Then here’s why Main Street Heating and Cooling is a very proud supporter:

The Movember Movement began in 2003 as a fun way to raise awareness about the very real and preventable threats that prostate and testicular cancer pose for men. The idea was simple: grow a moustache as an easy way to make a statement, tell a few friends, and use business to support a great cause. In 2003 30 “Mo Bros” styled that hair above the lip and launched Movember. Now, 10 years later, Movember has become a truly global phenomenon. In 2012 Movember raised over 147 million dollars in donations—all of which are given directly to organizations committed to men’s health. 1,270,152 men registered as “Mo Bros” and grew some of the most well groomed facial hair on the planet. Finally, Movember was ranked in the Top 100 NGOs based on its positive impact on health awareness, innovation, and sustainability. What began as a clever way to say “we care” has become a powerhouse.

Our team at Main Street Heating and Cooling was drawn to the Movember Movement because our business shares many of the same values as the Movember Movement itself:

• Fun. We love our work and we love our customers. We believe that we can successfully combine a fantastic heating and cooling business with a totally positive experience for our customers. Replacing or servicing a heating or cooling system doesn’t have to be a drag. 
• Accountability. Main Street and Heating and Cooling is built on a loyal following. We’re accountable to our customers for great feedback and continued support. 
• Caring. Ever had one of our cookie bags? Give us a call. Trust us on this one. Our business grows because our customers know we care. 
• Humble. We’re a new company with an old soul. Traditional values keep us grounded and they have since day one. 
• Innovative. Main Street Heating and Cooling recommends products that are intelligently designed for the modern lifestyle. 
• Remarkable Experience. The most important part of our job is making sure our customers feel that they’ve been treated to a superior service experience. 
• Change Agents. We didn’t set out to build a run-of-the-mill heating, cooling, and service company. We set out to set a new standard in the HVAC industry. We’re feeling pretty good about our start. 

Main Street Heating and Cooling is more than simply an HVAC company. We know that business can be a force of positive change and assistance for others. If growing a moustache is a simple way to say “We care” then we’re all in. Welcome to Movember!

A Bad Installation Looks Like…

Having a heating or cooling system put in is an important investment in your health and comfort. That’s why it’s so very vital that such systems are put in place properly and efficiently.

What’s the importance of proper installation?

The majority of added energy bill costs come from poor or sub-par performance of your HVAC system. While tweaks and repairs to the system may be necessary over time, a bad installation will have you doomed from the start.

Energy-efficient systems are only cost effective if they operate as intended. A poor installation may cause such a system to operate in an even more expensive manner.

Likewise, an improper installation can be a hidden danger to your health and well-being. Misaligned duct-work can come apart unexpectedly, exposed wire can pose a potential fire hazard, and chemical residue can be abrasive and toxic to children or pets.

What to look out for.

There are some red flags that your system has not been put in place correctly, which most of the time will become apparent immediately following a system installation. Keep an eye out for the following;

• Liquid gathering at the bottom of the unit
• Irregular noises – high pressured air or gas escaping from a crack or rupture
• Exposed wiring, especially near ground level
• Noticeable and persistent odor
• Blatant misalignment of the HVAC unit or its constituents

Check with your HVAC specialist if your newly installed system exhibits any of these characteristics.

What’s a Homeowner to do?

While the average homeowner will most likely not be able to remedy a poor installation (nor should they attempt to), there are several steps they can undertake to be proactive.

Choose a NATE-certified HVAC company – In the HVACR industry, this certification is a true standard of quality. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is the nation’s largest non-profit organization in the industry; they rigorously test members to ensure service knowledge of the highest caliber.

Ask Questions - It helps to make sure you know what to expect after your installation is finished. Are there any particular noises that you should expect to hear? When should I schedule my next appointment? Keep yourself in the know, be proactive, and let your specialist know if you need clarification.

Monitor and Maintain – Keep track of your household’s energy bills and watch out for any drastic fluctuation, which may be indicative of a system malfunction.

Moving forward, plan to have an HVAC specialist visit twice annually; not only to make sure your system is ready for the new temperate season but also to detect any subtle defects or damage that may be affecting your energy costs.

It’s a smart move to stick with the same HVAC outfit throughout, as they will be able to perform the most efficient inspection and

Scheduling an inspection has never been easier. If you’re in the Salt Lake County area, give us a call!

The 5 Maintenance Checks You Need to Prepare for Winter

The changing seasons are a time for fresh starts, transitions, and preparation. As homeowners start battening down the hatches for the colder months, you can get a head start by making sure these five areas are prepped and ready.

Air Filter Upgrade.

While it should be changed every month, your home’s air filter should be changed and ready for when you begin using your heating system. A clogged air filter will cause your HVAC system to use more energy, resulting in an unnecessary increase in your heating bill. If you want to be proactive, you can even buy in bulk and avoid later trekking through the elements.

Closed Door Policy.

Also of vital importance is accounting for every entryway and open source for the outdoors to make its way inside. Windows, doorways, roof access and basement entries, areas where walls meet: all need to be properly adjusted and sealed to ensure that no wasted circulation occurs.

An open path through the attic can let as much heat escape as a wide-open window, so be certain that your home’s fortification is thorough.

Out with the Cold, In with the Humidity.

Restarting a heating system after enjoying the summer months can quickly create a dry environment indoors. A humidifier can alleviate the pangs of this transition, thwart static buildup in your home, and even provide some additional health benefits for your air and complexion. It’s important to ensure that your humidifier unit is properly cleaned and ready to reinitiate, so take the proper steps to make sure it’s in working order.

If you’ve never thought about having a humidifier, there are a number of options available to you—from single room units to house-wide humidifying units that provide the most long-term benefit.

All Clear Outdoors.

An often-overlooked obstacle that can hinder savings is built up debris or foliage on or around your outdoor HVAC unit. Take the proper steps to clear the brush and buildup appropriately.

This is something best done while the weather is still temperate and the last thing you’ll want to worry about in the thick of winter. Make certain that the unit remains unobstructed and prevent any potential threats by trimming any nearby foliage.

Expert Opinion.

Before the increased demand hits, it’s in your best interest to have a trained HVAC specialist inspect your entire system to make sure it’s in fully operational. He or she will be able to provide you with the best practical advice for enjoying controlled-climate comfort during the winter while simultaneously saving wherever possible. Your specialist will also be able to perform a number of these checks if need be.

Unforeseen emergencies do happen, but having these preparations in place will help to minimize or even eliminate the threat of them occurring. For those unforeseeable worst-case scenarios, just know that emergency HVAC services do exist.

Preparing Your Home for Fall

As summer fades and fall looms, it’s the perfect time for Salt Lake City residents to prepare their property for the season’s unpredictable weather conditions. The following checklist is a handy reference that will have you ready for autumn in no time.

Take care of the gutters. As your gutters collect piles of summer debris, it’s easy for clogs to form. Remove twigs, leaves and other materials from your gutters and flush them with a hose. Remember basic ladder safety and never do this unless someone else is home!

Winterize outdoor faucets. When it’s time to shut off the sprinklers, it’s a good idea to remove hoses from their spigots and drain outdoor pipes so you don’t face the cost and inconvenience of water damage.

Clean up the fireplace. Clear old logs and debris from the hearth, and hire a professional to remove last year’s ashes and soot from inside your chimney. Keeping your chimney maintained prevents dangerous particulates from entering your home—and reduces the risk of structural fires.

Keep the cold weather outside. Weather stripping windows and doors keeps you cozy while lowering utility bills. Look for light and feel for air around openings and outlets. To insulate your home from drafts, choose from a variety of foam, vinyl or felt weather stripping (depending upon the application). Aging homes may also require window replacement to improve comfort and lower energy use. This can be a costly investment, so consider replacing a few at a time, starting with main living areas.

Prioritize family safety. Each year, it is a good idea to have a family meeting to go over safety measures, fire escape routes, and disaster preparation. This is also an ideal time to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. Visit the FEMA website or Be Ready Utah for comprehensive information about being prepared for weather, natural disasters, and other unexpected circumstances.

Maintain your heating system. We have compiled a list of do-it-yourself tasks that will keep your HVAC system running safely and comfortably, year round. In addition, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection one to two times per year. HVAC inspections are not a gimmick. Studies show that well-maintained furnaces and heat pumps last longer and run more efficiently than overlooked systems. Your HVAC technician will inspect and clean your equipment, change filters, and alert you to potential safety hazards. Reputable HVAC companies often provide coupons and promotions for system winterization, so this is an affordable investment you can’t afford to neglect.

To schedule a seasonal inspection for your home comfort system, or to inquire about fall specials and HVAC winterization services, call 801.930.5151 or email our team of skilled technicians today!