Air Conditioning Service For Property Managers

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has much experience working with property managers and community associations to keep their air conditioning systems working properly. We help you provide your residents with the high quality of living they expect, and know how important it is to keep your tenants happy.

We have the expertise and the equipment to handle everything from single family residences to apartments and large condominiums.

Property managers and condominium associations choose Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. because they cannot afford to take the chance of using an HVAC company that has no experience with commercial properties. Inexperienced HVAC companies can often create unnecessary problems and headaches because they do not take into consideration the special requirements property managers have.

We understand that your budget is always a concern, and we will work with you to find the best solution. We will help you choose a system that is not only cost effective to begin with, but will save you much more money in the long run in reduced maintenance costs.

We ensure that all of your heating and cooling systems perform to our high standards of excellence. We offer System Upgrades, System Replacements and Preventative Maintenance.

Since Property Management is not a 9 to 5 job - we are there for you 7 days a week offering emergency service.

Sarasota Condominium Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

New Air Conditioning or Heat Pump?

One of the questions we are often asked is “should I install air conditioning and a furnace, or just install a heat pump?”

The basic difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is that heat pumps can both cool and heat your home. An air conditioner is slightly more efficient at cooling, but if you live in an area where the temperature doesn’t drop below 40 degrees – a heat pump may be the best choice for you.

Of course there are those rare occasions when the weather does get unusually cold – even here in Sarasota. For example, back in 1983 the temperature actually dropped to 20 degrees. But normally there are few days in the winter when you’ll need to turn the heat on, and a heat pump will be more than sufficient for this task.
If you live in an area where the temperature often drops below 40 degrees, or if you just want the security of a furnace, you may choose to add a heater as your primary heating source.

The advantage of using a heat pump is that it draws heat from the air outside your home and transfers it to the inside of your home which makes a heat pump substantially less expensive to operate than a gas or oil furnace. So if the weather rarely falls below 40 degrees you will be able to heat your home much more affordably with a heat pump than by using a furnace. If the temperature is frequently colder than 40 degrees you may want to consider a backup furnace.

So is a heat pump right for you? Generally a heat pump is slightly more expensive than a central air conditioner, and they may cost a little more to install and maintain. Overall however, a high efficiency heat pump will save you much money in heating and cooling bills.

If you are considering replacing your old system, or if you are interested in learning more about heat pumps and if one would be a good choice for you, please call Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. at 941-921-7208.

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

The very first Thanksgiving.

The very first Thanksgiving meal lasted three days. The foods served included lobster, eel, rabbit, fish, venison, squash, hickory nuts, dried fruits, maple syrup, radishes, cabbage, geese, eagles and other birds (possibly a wild turkey or two) and goat cheese. There were no Mashed Potatoes, Pumpkin pies, or cranberries.

Forks were not invented yet so food was eaten with spoons, knives, and fingers.

It is very likely all they had to drink was water. There were no apples for cider, and even though they probably had planted barley – they may not have had time enough to start brewing beer yet.

You are probably asking yourself “what does the first Thanksgiving dinner have to do with Air Conditioning?”

Absolutely nothing...

But if you are a customer of ours – we are very thankful for your patronage. If you are not yet a customer – please call us and give us a chance to earn your trust – you’ll be glad you did.

We would like to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!

How do you know if a HVAC contractor has a license?

A very intelligent home improvement is to replace your air conditioning system. If your system is not that old, or you are just not ready to bite the bullet, at least consider regular maintenance. Keeping your air conditioning system operating smoothly and efficiently helps you save energy while also reducing your electric bill.

When it is time to hire a certified HVAC company for maintenance or new installation you need to choose the right contractor.

One of the things you should always do is make sure the contractor is properly licensed.

The easiest way is to visit http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr and click the “verify a license” button on the top menu. Then you will be able to search by contractor name, license number, city and state, or license type.  This will also give you the Licensure Date. Make sure you check this date with how many years the contractor claims to be in business. If there is a discrepancy here it should raise a red flag.

Another great resource is http://www.sunbiz.org/ where you can search corporation records.

Just a little bit of research can help prevent you from accidentally hiring a bad HVAC tech who coulld possibly cause you much frustration and create expensive repair bills.

For more information - please visit http://www.keepingsarasotacool.com/

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

Buddy Ray's A/C Barn Press Release

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. is pleased to announce that their new website www.acbarn.comwww.acbarn.com is now live.

On the surface this website is an amusing look at air conditioning, and parodies the HVAC industry. There are no references to actual companies or individuals, but people visiting the site will notice similarities to actual junk mail and other “questionable” advertising.

The motivation behind this site is to inform and educate the public in an entertaining way. Unfortunately there are businesses that give the HVAC industry a bad name, including unlicensed contractors and unscrupulous businesses with various scams such as cheap duct cleaning.

The purpose of this website is to help people make intelligent decisions when hiring HVAC contractors.

Since 2003 Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has been raising the bar for customer service and excellence in HVAC Repair, maintenance, and new installation. They take a different approach than the traditional Air Conditioning Company. Instead of trying to sell the biggest and most expensive system, they work with the client to determine the best system for their needs.

The idea for the “Buddy Ray’s A/C Barn” website was born out of frustration with the inferior work and poor customer service area residents and businesses have had to tolerate. Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has a reputation for correcting improper installations as well as handling problem jobs other local contractors are reluctant or unqualified to perform.

Every customer is important and Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. works hard to gain their trust and make them a customer for life. Whether it is a multi-million dollar business or the owner of a small bungalow, the same courteous and professional attitude has become their trademark.

For most people, an Air conditioning system is the most expensive appliance in their home. Choosing the wrong system or contractor could mean years of aggravation and high energy bills.

When you call Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc., you will get professional, highly skilled and certified AC Technicians. You will also get a dedicated, hard working and honest person that truly cares about your comfort.

Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. provides Residential and commercial AC Installation, Repair and maintenance.

They cover Sarasota and Manatee counties including Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding areas. They specialize in custom designed air conditioning systems that are energy efficient and will save you money on your electric bill.

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

Why you should use quality filters for your air conditioning system.

To help make sure your air conditioning system is running efficiently, you should replace filters on a regular basis. Often people are tempted to buy inexpensive and less effective filters. At first glance it may be hard to see the advantage of spending the extra money for a better filter, but the extra you invest now may save you huge repair bills down the road.

If any filter becomes clogged it will block normal air flow to the a/c system and reduce the systems efficiency dramatically. When a filter is clogged air will be forced to bypass the filter and contaminate the evaporator coil with dirt and debris which will impair its heat absorbing capacity. In other words, it will cost more to cool the home.

Coils will naturally collect dirt over time, but a good filter will greatly reduce the amount and rate of buildup. Lesser expensive filters cause problems over time because they affect the systems performance and contribute to expensive service calls.

The better the filter – the more particles it will collect. Dust that does not get collected by your filter gets redistributed back into your home. If you suffer from allergies or other health concerns, the more efficient filters are a good decision. Quality filters with high MERV ratings will remove more household allergens.

It is estimated that a clean new filter can lower your AC systems energy consumption up to 16%.

Quality filters cost more in the short run, but in the long run they will pay for themselves in healthier air, a more efficient Air conditioning system, and less change of expensive maintenance bills.

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

Clogged Drain Lines - An Avoidable Problem.

A very common reason for calling an air conditioning technician is when an air conditioning drain line becomes clogged. This is easily fixed and an avoidable problem, but a clogged drain line can potentially cost the homeowner much money and frustration.

When warm air from your home comes in contact with your air conditioning evaporator coil it creates a certain amount of condensation. This water has to go somewhere, and that is why air conditioning systems are equipped with a condensate pan and a small PVC pipe that leads to a drain system in or outside your home.

Unfortunately if the drain line becomes clogged it can back up into the pan and create a water leak. Depending on where your AC unit is located, a leak could cause some real damage, for example: if the system is located in an attic and the water leaks through the ceiling.

Drain lines clog up from dust and other matter that get into the AC System, as well as fungal and other buildup within the pipe. When an Air conditioning technician services your A/C System they will make sure you have a clean condensate drain line. One of the methods is to attach a wet/dry vacuum to the end of the drain line and forcibly draw any buildup from the pipe while they pour a non-hazardous natural cleaning agent into the drain line. They will also place anti fungal condensate pan tablets to the condensate pan that will also help to prevent sludge and buildup.

When Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. installs a new system they will take the extra time to create a cleanout in a section if the drain pipe that facilitates proper cleaning of the drain lines. Some systems do not have a cleanout and eventually the drain pipe needs to be cut in order to clean it.

In Florida, where we use our air conditioning for most of the year, drain lines should be cleaned twice a year to prevent water from leaking into the home. You should also use a quality air filter and make sure to change it regularly since dust particles and other matter can accumulate on the evaporator coil and end up in the drain line which can contribute to a drain line clog.

If you are the kind of person who likes to change your own oil, you may decide to clean your own A/C drain line. However, your Air Conditioning technician is the best person to do this work, and if you have a maintenance service agreement with a company they will check the whole system while they are there.

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

Sarasota’s own “Ghost Hunters” crack the case of the clammy carpet.

Herbert Langstrom awoke one morning in his condo to find that the carpet in his living room was moist. It had not been raining, and there was no reason he could see that the carpet would be soggy.

Was this some sort of paranormal predicament? Some unearthly manifestation of an ectoplasm overload? What diabolical demon entered Mr. Langstroms condo while he was sound asleep and caused an otherwise normal carpet to exhibit such strange signs of wetness?

In desperation Herbert quickly contacted Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. Technicians were dispatched and soon the real cause of the dastardly dampness was uncovered.

Turns out The vertical air handler in the condo had developed a clogged line which lead to a drain pan leak and caused water to drip down the inside of the wall and eventually come in contact with the carpet.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. quickly fixed the problem.

In this case there was no demonic apparition – only a faulty float switch and a rusted out drain pan. Now the A/C system is running smoothly, and Herbert can once again enjoy a dry floor surface and the reassurance that his condo is not the haunted.

Sarasota’s own “Ghost Hunters” crack the case of the Electric Bill Horror.

Danny Dillworth has been plagued by high energy bills and odd sounds coming from his attic for months. While taking the garage out one night he was terrified to witness several small dark shapes with glowing eyes scurrying across his roof.
 
Were these small demonic entities that had infiltrated his attic? Maybe some devilish imps bent on slowly driving Mr. Dillworth mad? Danny would lie awake at night trembling in fear at every little bump in the night, dreading the thought that eventually these horrific hallucinations would materialize and come to claim his very sanity. How much higher could those electric bills get? Danny started having terrible nightmares about having to sell everything he owned just to pay FPL.

In desperation Danny turned to Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. Technicians were dispatched and soon the true source of the unusually high electric bills was discovered.

Turns out there was a family of raccoons living in the attic. They had torn and chewed through most of the flexible duct work so that cold air was blowing into the attic.

After a pest control company was summoned to capture the critters, Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. fixed the problem by replacing the destroyed ductwork.

In this case there were no demonic denizens, only a family of curious and destructive pests. Now the A/C system is running smoothly, the electric bills are normal, and Danny has been getting a great night’s sleep knowing that his house is not haunted.

Sarasota’s own real “Ghost Hunters” crack the case of the weird whistling.

Margie Millhouse recently moved into a new house and starting hearing strange sounds coming from her dining room. At different times during the day there would be a sucking and slight whistling sound from behind her antique china cabinet. In the middle of the night she would hear the same eerie sound. If she turned the thermostat up the sound would disappear.

Was this some playful poltergeist pestering poor Margie? Was her home haunted by some ghastly ghoul hiding behind her china cabinet that likes it hot in the house and howls if the A/C is turned on?

In desperation Margie turned to Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. Technicians were dispatched and soon the real origin of the strange sound was discovered.

Turns out there was a single undersized 20 x 20 return air duct located behind her china cabinet that was inadequate for supplying enough air to the air conditioning system. It didn’t help matters when she placed furniture in front of the return air duct and even further restricting the air flow.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. fixed the problem by adding extra return ducts and supply grills to balance the airflow throughout the home (as well as move her China cabinet to the other side of the room). They also performed maintenance on the A/C system to ensure it was operating smoothly and to catch any potential problems that could result in expensive repair bills down the road.

In this case there was no ghost – only insufficient return air ducts. Now the A/C system is running smoothly, and Margie has been getting a great night’s sleep knowing that her house is not haunted.

The HVAC industry is always changing

Unfortunately some people view air conditioning technicians the same way they view house painters or landscapers – as low tech semi skilled labor. This may be the reason some people tend to shop for price first. We have all heard the horror stories about unlicensed employees, and less than satisfactory work.

Long ago Sean McCutcheon acknowledged that the HVAC industry is always changing, and the importance of technicians that keep on the cutting edge of new technologies. He believes a good technician can never stop learning so he supplies them with the training and information they need to be the best in their field.

When you call Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc., you will get professional, highly skilled and certified AC Technicians. You will also get a dedicated, hard working, and honest person that truly cares about your comfort, and the companies reputation.

At Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc., we don’t try to outdo the competition; we set the standard.

What you should know when replacing your Air Conditioning System.

The number one mistake many home owners make when replacing their Air Conditioning System is hiring the lowest bidder. This is because the company with the lowest bid will most likely cut corners on the installation of the unit.

A homeowner should always shop quality first, and price second. Determine what the best and most efficient system is for your needs. Do research and gather information so you know what exactly needs to be done to properly install the system. Once you are armed with this knowledge you can then choose the right contractor to do the work.

When installing a high end system in an older home there are many modifications that need to be made including replacing copper refrigerant lines and running larger gauge wiring to the breaker panel. With a new system that requires R410a refrigerant, the line sets should have a thicker gauge wall thickness to allow for the higher pressures that R410a produces. When installing a high speed system, or a 2 speed system, the wiring to the breaker panel may need to be upgraded.

Almost 75% of Air Conditioning System change-outs are improperly installed. You cannot simply drop a brand new unit in the spot where the older unit was. It is crucial that older duct work is examined, tested, upgraded or replaced if needed.

Think of it this way – would you put a new high performance Corvette V8 engine into a 1977 Gremlin and expect it to run correctly and not malfunction? This is what some contractors do though, and homeowners suffer because the air conditioning systems do not operate efficiently which results in less energy savings and high repair bills. Even if the unit is under warranty – you still need to pay for labor.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. makes proper installation their number one priority. This is why we have 100% customer satisfaction, an A+ BBB rating, and the lowest amount of warranty issue problems in Florida.

We offer free second opinions. Call Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. today, and get the service and quality you deserve!

Sarasota Air Conditioning Repair, Service, And Maintenance

Why you should only hire licensed contractors.

If a contractor is unlicensed, there is a very good chance that he does not have liability insurance or workers compensation insurance. Most homeowner policies require that work must be done by a licensed contractor and provide no coverage for work that is not.

Unlicensed contractors will often underbid licensed professionals.

Florida Statute 489 requires contractors to be licensed. Hiring an unlicensed contractor is a violation of Florida Statute 455.228 and is subject to a fine of up to $5,000.

Unlicensed contractors typically do not have the appropriate education or qualification which may result in poor quality work or unfinished projects. According to the State of Florida, very often unlicensed contractors also have criminal backgrounds.

If the contractor fails to pay any subcontractors – you may also be subject to liens placed on your property.

Is saving a few bucks really worth the risk?

http://www.keepingsarasotacool.com/

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. makes the Inc. 500|5000

Inc. Magazine Unveils Its Annual Exclusive List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies—the Inc.500|5000.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. Ranks No. 1461 on the 2011 Inc. 500|5000 with Three-Year Sales Growth of 191%.

NEW YORK, August 23, 2011 -- Inc. magazine today ranked Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. NO. 1461 on its fifth annual Inc. 500|5000, an exclusive ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy - America’s independent entrepreneurs. Online retailer ideeli tops this year’s list.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. joins Spirit Airlines, television maker Vizio, Honest Tea, Dunkin Donuts and Metrokane, makers of the Rabbit corkscrew, among other prominent brands featured on this year’s list.

In a stagnant economic environment, median growth rate of 2011 Inc. 500|5000 companies remains an impressive 94 percent. The companies on this year’s list report having created 350,000 jobs in the past three years, and aggregate revenue among the honorees reached $366 billion, up 14 percent from last year.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/5000.

"Now, more than ever, we depend on Inc. 500/5000 companies to spur innovation, provide jobs, and drive the economy forward. Growth companies, not large corporations, are where the action is,” says Inc. magazine Editor Jane Berentson.

CONTACT: Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. 941-921-7208 Website: http://www.keepingsarasotacool.com/

More about Inc. and the Inc. 500|5000

Methodology

The 2011 Inc. 500 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2007 to 2010. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2007. Additionally, they had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2010. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2007 is $100,000; the minimum for 2010 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Companies on the Inc. 500 are featured in Inc.’s September issue. They represent the top tier of the Inc. 5000, which can be found at www.inc.com/500.

About Inc. Magazine

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. (www.inc.com) is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. With a total paid circulation of 710,106, Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology. Visit us online at http://www.inc.com/.

How to choose an HVAC contractor part 2

Make sure they are able to answer the following questions and provide you with copies of licenses and certification.

• How many years has the company been in business?

• Do you have a copy of your HVAC license?

• Do you carry liability and workers comp. insurance?

• Are your technicians certified to handle refrigerant gas?

• Do you have a permanent non-residence place of business?

• Can you provide customer references?

Do not hire a contractor who can quote a price over the phone. And definitely don’t be mislead by contractors who will offer to replace your old equipment with the same size unit without doing any measurements, inspections or diagnostic tests. Over half of new systems are the wrong size, installed improperly, and attached to an inadequate existing duct system. As a result, they waste an average of one third of the energy purchased to run them.

A good contractor is committed to 100% customer satisfaction and should be asking you a lot of questions before they go ahead and just give you a quote. The HVAC contractor should also explain your different options and not just give you a quote for the cheapest least efficient product that will be “good enough”.

A quality contractor is more interested in serving you than in selling you. He builds his business on long term service relationships and referrals from extremely happy clients, rather than making the quick buck. He believes in truly solving his clients' problems and only putting in systems that really work right, even if it may mean he initially sells new equipment to fewer homeowners.

While price matters, don't let the initial price be the only consideration when choosing a heating and cooling contractor. As with most things in life, price is usually an indication of quality. And high quality is essential for a new heating and cooling system.

The low price you see advertised may not be the price you end up paying. Some contractors offer an unrealistically low price to get the job and then pressure you into paying a lot more after starting.

How to choose an HVAC contractor part 1

When considering the purchase of a new air conditioning system, you should always shop for quality first and price second. But the most important thing is to have the right contractor install the system. If you choose the wrong contractor, you could face many years of headaches, frustration and high energy bills.

All Contractors are not the same.

There is a huge variation in competence and ethics. You’ve probably seen the undercover reports that expose dishonest contractors. Even though only a small percentage of HVAC companies are blatantly dishonest, the Better Business Bureau ranks heating and cooling as one of the highest complaint generating industries.

The majority of Air Conditioning companies are honest, but most of them simply do not have the ongoing training or business systems in place to properly serve their customers. Using a company that is not up to date with the newest technology may result in excessive utility bills, inefficient operation of the new system, premature system failure or high repair bills.

Take the time to find an air conditioning company that is ethical, keeps their employees well trained, and makes customer service a priority.

Heating and air conditioning is the most complex home service trade. You cannot risk having an amateur or a dishonest contractor install your new equipment.

Remembering September 11th

This coming September 11th will mark 10 years since the New York terrorist attacks. This event has touched each and every one of us in one way or another.

When we think of 911 we remember those brave men and women who risked life and limb.

On September 11th the Sarasota Fire Fighters Benevolent Fund is holding a parade on Main street in Sarasota. This parade is not just for fire fighters – but will also include state and city police, paramedics, hazmat, swat, sheriff and other departments from Tampa to Naples.

Please join us in honoring those who we have lost, and those who gave their lives to save others.

For more information please click here

Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating Supports our local Firefighters!

Is Your AC Tech A Jack Of All Trades?

It is estimated that over half of all air conditioning systems operating in the U.S. were not installed properly.

An improperly installed system will not work efficiently and will result in expensive repair and utility bills. Hiring the cheapest contractor is never a good idea, and when it comes to the specialized and complicated industry of HVAC – you definitely need to hire a professional. The company that comes up with the lowest bid will have to cut their costs somewhere.

Examples of improperly installed air conditioning systems can include: undersized and un-insulated refrigerant lines, ducts not sealed or insulated, over sized or undersized air conditioning equipment, mismatched indoor and outdoor sections, improperly charged refrigerant, wiring that has not been upgraded.

Ever hear the saying “Jack of all trades – master of none”. A company that offers Air Conditioning, Plumbing, electrical and other services may not be able to offer the same high level of quality and service as a company that specializes in only Air Conditioning. Your local handyman definitely does not have the knowledge or the experience to properly maintain or repair your Air Conditioning.

Much in the same way that the backyard auto mechanic has become obsolete, the increasing sophistication of today’s air conditioning systems requires technicians to constantly fine tune their skills.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. sticks with what we do best. No plumbing, no electrical, no landscaping – just the best Air Conditioning and heating!

Call us today and get the quality and service you deserve!

Air Conditioning Energy Saving Tips.

During the hot Florida summer months it’s easy to rack up a high electric bill. Here are a few ways you can save money and still stay comfortable.

Did you know that setting your air conditioner only 5% higher can save up to 20% on cooling costs? You may not want to completely turn the thermostat off when you leave the house – but if you get into the habit of turning it to at least 80 degrees you will notice a significant decrease in the amount of your electric bill.

If you install an ENERGY STAR qualified programmable thermostat – It can save over $200.00 per year and usually pays for itself within the first year. Some programmable thermostats even allow you to connect them to your computer for programming, and most models are very user friendly.

Always try to look for ENERGY STAR products. These appliances are up to 40% more efficient. If you do a little searching on the internet you can usually find rebates and incentives in your area.

Using fans will reduce air conditioning costs as well. A fan can make you feel three to four degrees cooler and you will be able to set your thermostat a few degrees higher and still feel comfortable.

Try to keep windows and doors shut and close your shades during the day.

Simply having your Air Conditioning unit serviced regularly can cut your cooling costs by as much as 15%.

The average home loses 15% to 25% of its cooling through leaking ducts. Have your heating and cooling ducts professionally sealed or replaced.

Regular maintenance will help your air conditioning system operate efficiently and last longer. When you have your air conditioning unit serviced twice a year you can cut up to 17% of cooling costs.

Be sure nothing is blocking your air conditioner. To operate efficiently, an AC system needs free flowing air. Make sure any returns inside the house are not blocked by furniture or other items. Filters should be checked monthly.

If you replace your old air conditioner with a high efficiency unit, you will definitely see a difference. New air conditioners use up to 40% less electricity than older models.

If you have any questions, call Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. at 941-921-7208 or visit http://www.keepingsarasotacool.com/.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

Do light bulbs affect your air conditioning?

Conventional incandescent lighting may actually make your AC work just a little harder. Only 10% of the energy used by these light bulbs produces light - the other 90% becomes heat. The last thing you need in the middle of summer is something making more heat in your home.

The average Florida home owner could save up to $70.00 per year by using Compact Florescent Bulbs. It is estimated that almost $40.00 of this is from the AC having to run more. Not a huge expense but it does add up over the years.

Starting in 2012 a law goes into effect that sets new standards for general service light bulbs. The main purpose of this law is to reduce our energy consumption and our dependence on foreign energy sources.

Compact Florescent bulbs are a little more expensive, but in the long run you'll save money and they last 10x longer. It may just be a good idea to start changing them out now...

Air Conditioning and the Environment

It is essential that an air conditioning company keeps up to date with pending changes in technology and energy regulations. This is not only so the air conditioning company can ensure continued compliance, but also to ultimately better serve the customer. For example: Sean McCutcheon's Air conditioning and Heating has been recommending Environmentally Safe refrigerants since 2004. Some other air conditioning companies did not bother to inform their customers of the phase out of R-22, and as a result those customers have seen sky rocketing maintenance costs.

Today’s voluntary guidelines often become tomorrow’s state and federal policies. For instance, in 2001 the EPA Energy Star Program enacted voluntary energy consumption guidelines for commercial refrigerators and freezers. The California Energy Commission later used those guidelines as the basis of a state law.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, inc. proactively anticipates changes in regulations and advises customers as to the best option when deciding to repair or replace their Air Conditioning System. By complying with existing and pending energy use regulations we are able to help the customer select the most energy efficient products that will save them the most money in the long run with the least amount of maintenance.

We routinely try to discover financial incentives to offer to customers so they will consider installing the most energy efficient equipment. We have also made it a point to be involved with LEED rated homes whenever possible. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Some companies claim to be Green friendly, but at Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, inc., we go out of our way to prove we are genuinely concerned about the environment and sustainable development.

Would you drive your car 40,000 miles without changing the oil?

For most of us, automobiles are a necessary part of our lives. Whether it’s a Prius or a Mack truck we all recognize the importance of keeping a car in good running condition. We change oil every 3,000 miles, replace worn tires, wash occasionally and get regular tune ups. Working headlights and Good brakes are always a plus unless you like driving into walls. We would never think of driving a car over 40,000 miles without making sure regular maintenance was performed along the way.

During only four summer months here in Florida your Air Conditioning runs the equivalent of driving your car 42,000 miles. While it is true that your AC unit will probably never be seen heading south on I-75 at 70 miles an hour, it does serve the very noble purpose of keeping your home nice and cool. Just try going one day without AC in mid July and you’ll appreciate that system a little more. Since we’re in our cars every day, it’s easy to see how much better our lives are when the car is running smoothly. If something is wrong with the car we can usually tell right away.

However, other than checking the thermostat to make sure the temperature is set correctly, we normally don’t think much about our Air Conditioning. If something is not right with the AC system you may not know until it totally breaks down. Sure you may notice the electric bill creeping higher, or the house may not be as cool as it used to be, but it’s easy to put off getting the AC checked.

Your Air Conditioning System is a tireless servant silently toiling away to make your family more comfortable. It’s dedicated, loyal and never complains. As long as it’s supplied with electricity, a little maintenance twice a year and a clean filter it will be able to perform its job.

Remember if your Air Conditioning is happy – you and your family will be happy! The very minimal price of a maintenance agreement will keep your air conditioning unit in good working condition and help you avoid expensive repair bills. A properly maintained system will also lower your energy bills. As a maintenance agreement customer you also get many added bonuses including discounts, priority scheduling and even free maintenance when you refer friends and family.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc., We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

UV Lights For Sanitization Of Air Conditioning Systems.

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a form of short wavelength radiation. Although exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds can be dangerous, ultraviolet light has a variety of uses. One of the more beneficial uses is to install UV lights in Air conditioning systems as a way to purify the air.

Indoor air quality can be worse than outdoor air because the ultraviolet component of sunlight destroys microbes.

Unlike filters, which collect pollutants as they pass through the system, UV lights actually kill organic matter, such as bacteria, mold, and viruses. UV light is highly effective at penetrating thin-walled germs like viruses and bacteria. The light alters the genetic structure of the germ and they die.

While UV light sanitation may seem like relatively new technology, the use of UV light to kill germs on surfaces, in the air and in the water dates back to 1916. UV light has been proven to kill up to 99.9% of germs.

The warmth and moisture found in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems of households and office buildings make the perfect breeding ground for airborne molds, microorganisms and bacteria. These HVAC systems also provide an ideal way to circulate viruses and germs around an entire office building or home in a relatively short time.

Many air conditioning companies offer UV sanitization but not all are equal and UV lights will be more or less useful depending on the environment they are placed in. The effectiveness of UV lights depends on the UV irradiation dose, the system design, age of the lights and other factors.

There are many different types of UV sanitization systems. One of the systems we recommend is most effective when the ultraviolet rays from the probes shine on the cold air side of the air conditioner evaporator coil. This keeps the evaporator coil in a healthy condition by eliminating the normal mold, algae, slime, and gel formations that can act as breeding areas for bacteria. This also prevents buildup that can plug the coil, inhibit air flow, and increase cooling costs. A very thin film just .002'' thick on your indoor coil is all it takes to reduce airflow by as much as 9%*. UV Lights can clean the coil and virtually eliminate additional build up.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. recommends quality Bryant Ultraviolet Germicidal Lights. They can help to rid your home of bacteria, viruses and germs that reside in the air you breathe every day. UV lights will prevent these and other particles from building up on the indoor coil which can inhibit airflow and reduce heating and cooling efficiency.

When the UV Lights are properly mounted inside your system near the indoor coil, they will direct UV light to the source of potential fungal and microbial growth. When combined with a Bryant high efficiency air cleaner, you can enjoy substantial improvements to the quality of your indoor air.

UV Lights retain their effectiveness for 1 ½ to 2 years. After the initial installation, additional replacement bulbs are relatively inexpensive. Depending on the age and condition of the existing HVAC system and/or ventilators, it is suggested to assess the unit to determine what needs to be done prior to installation of UV lights.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

When you are building the most energy efficient home in Florida, who do you hire to install the air conditioning system?

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. is proud to have worked on the highest scoring new construction LEED platinum home ever built in Florida. The ‘Power Haus’ built by Josh Wynne Construction in Sarasota has achieved the lowest HERS rating on record in the U.S., a negative 22.

To put this number into perspective, a HERS Index of 100 represents the energy use of the “American Standard Building” and an Index of 0 (zero) indicates that the Building uses no net purchased energy (a Zero Energy Building). In other words, the owners of this home actually get a check every month from the electric company because this house puts energy back into the grid.

The “Power Haus” has a LEED score of 118, which is just shy of also becoming the highest scoring LEED home in the country by 1.5 points. (A residence in Chicago holds the highest known score at 119.5). In 2009 Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating also provided the HVAC System for the Codding Cottage in Sarasota which had a LEED score of 110. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally-recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

The ‘Power Haus” has been certified as a Florida Water Star Gold Home. Florida green Building Coalition designated it as a Certified Green Home – Platinum certification score 255. And it is a certified green building from the NAHB Research Center – an Emerald level green home.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. installed a 21 SEER 2 speed Carrier Infinity HVAC system. This is the most advanced Air Conditioning system on the market. Since some of the duct work is visible, there was a high degree of skill and creativity required to make the system installation not only functional, but pleasing to the eye. Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. specializes in new installation, and they are also considered to be the experts when it comes to retrofitting systems.

The home has many energy saving and high efficiency features including a 14.2-kilowatt photovoltaic array., Eternal gas tankless hybrid water heater, Energy Star appliances and 100% LED lighting.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating is committed to promoting efficient and energy saving means of cooling and heating. Their goal is to educate their customers so they can make the best decisions. Bigger and more expensive is not always better, and Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating works with our customers to help them choose the best system for their home.

If you are considering purchasing a new system, or if you just need maintenance to keep your current system running smoothly, please call them at 941-921-7208.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

Air Conditioning Tech Or Salesman?

Some air conditioning companies have as many telemarketers on the payroll as technicians. One of the first signs that an air conditioning company may be shady can be if you receive a phone call from them right out of the blue. This may be a company based in one city that is targeting other cities where it is not known. What they lack in reputation, professionalism and skill, they make up for in mass advertising.

These companies buy call lists and target certain neighborhoods and people who match a desired profile. The elderly are a favorite target, but anyone can fall prey to these dishonest businesses. One tactic they will often use is to call and claim they are just down the street at a neighbor’s house and would like to offer you a discounted or free service. The person who shows up at the door is a salesman who works on commission. Their goal is to get you for as much money as possible.

These unscrupulous predators will try anything and everything. They will claim to find mold, say the system is unsafe, and tell you that your family is in extreme danger. Some companies will even claim that they legally cannot leave an AC system running in such a bad condition. They will try to get you to sign a document and may even refuse to leave before you do. Obviously, the last thing they want is for you to get a second opinion.

The following are other things to beware of; wanting you to pay in full before any work is done, not allowing you to verify their license or insurance information, or making you feel intimidated.

There are many ways you can find out if a company or contractor is legitimate. The Better Business Bureau is a great resource for information and ratings on companies, your local Chamber of commerce can recommend businesses, but the best thing to do is ask around. Contact friends and neighbors to ask who they recommend. Do a little research on the internet; see what other people say about the company. Finally, it never hurts to get a second opinion before you agree to spend a large amount of money on something.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

Keep your friends cool this summer and enjoy free AC maintenance.

When you become a Priority Service Agreement Member with Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, inc. you will enjoy many benefits including free maintenance when you refer customers to us.

Every time you refer a friend or family member to us and they sign up for a Priority Service Agreement, you will get your next maintenance visit free of charge. You can get a whole year free by having 2 people sign up. If 10 of your friends sign up with us you’ll get 5 years of maintenance no charge.
Prevention is always better than the cure. A maintenance agreement will keep your air conditioning unit in good working condition and help you avoid expensive repair bills. A properly maintained system will also lower your energy bills. Some manufacturers warranties require annual maintenance.
What does it include?

Two thorough 38 point inspections per year.
Air filter cleaning or replacement (most models).
Wash and wax outdoor unit.
Priority scheduling.
15% discount on service repairs.
Discounts on future replacements.
Indoor unit cleaning.
Up to one pound of refrigerant if needed.
Loyalty rewards.

If you are interested and would like more information – please contact us at 941-921-7250

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

Is Your Air Conditioning Company Green?

Everywhere you look companies are claiming they have “gone green”. It seems like everyone has jumped on the environmentally-friendly bandwagon. Problem is, often it’s hard to tell if a company is actually green or just claiming to be. More often than not, it seems like claiming to be green is just another advertising ploy for some businesses. In the end, actions always speak louder than words.

From the very beginning, Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has been environmentally friendly by default. Because the company has always planned on being around for many years to come, we focused on the safest and most sustainable practices for employees and customers from the start.

From day one Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. anticipated evolving building regulations, used non-toxic products, recommended energy efficient systems, and recycled used equipment. The fact that they follow proper procedures when removing old systems means that all coolant is reclaimed, and none of it escapes into the atmosphere.

Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has also aligned with local contractors who have been recognized as leaders in the green community such as Josh Wynn Construction. They are green because They care about the environment, but also because it just makes sense. They’ve always done the right thing – they don’t know how to do it any other way.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

The History Of Air Conditioning

Being a Florida resident – it’s hard to imagine living through a summer without AC, but it wasn’t that long ago that residents of warmer climates had no means to artificially control the temperature in their homes and businesses.

You may not be familiar with the name Dr. John Gorrie, but he is the father of Air Conditioning. Back in 1851 Dr. Gorrie was granted the first U.S. Patent for mechanical refrigeration.

Dr. Gorrie served as mayor of Apalachicola Florida in 1837, and that is where he developed his machine. It’s purpose was to ease the suffering of yellow fever and malaria patients. It basically blew air over a bucket of ice and helped cool down hospital rooms full of patients.

However it wasn’t until 1902 that Willis Carrier came up with his idea "Apparatus for Treating Air" which was built for a Publishing company in New York. Chilled coils were used to cool air and lower humidity. Within the next few years air conditioners were installed in some hospitals, but mainly industrial buildings such as printing plants and textile mills.

The first Air conditioner units were very large, very expensive, and dangerous since ammonia was used as coolant.

Almost twenty years later a different coolant was used, and a central compressor was developed that greatly reduced the size of the air conditioning unit. By 1927 air conditioners were being installed in office buildings and department stores. A couple years later the white house was furnished with AC. Soon after world war II, smaller less expensive window units became available to the public.

So it wasn’t until the mid 1950’s that air conditioning was widely used in residential homes.

A lot has changed in the last 60 years – and most of the important changes have happened relatively recently. Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. stays on the leading edge of new air conditioning technology. With high efficiency units and alternative coolants, we help you save money in cooling costs, and we all help protect the environment.

If you are considering upgrading or replacing your current AC System, we would like the opportunity to work with you and help you find the best system for your needs.

If you have already talked to another company and are confused, or unsure if you have all of the information – we are happy to provide you with an expert second opinion.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

2011 Federal Tax Credits for qualifying residential systems

Qualifying, high efficiency HVAC equipment may still be eligible for federal tax credits. These tax credits have been modified and extended through December 31, 2011 by the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.

This program is different from the previous program (effective in 2009-2010) in the following ways:

The maximum amount an eligible homeowner may receive in tax credits for purchasing qualifying products (upgraded insulation, windows, HVAC equipment or other eligible improvements) has been reduced from $1,500 to $500.

There is a $500 cap on these credits, but that cap is reduced by the total amount of residential energy property credits a homeowner has already claimed for purchases between 2006 and 2010.

If you have already claimed credits of $500 or more from improvements made prior to 2011, you will be unable to claim new credits for improvements made during 2011.

All furnaces and boilers, whether natural gas, propane or oil, must have an AFUE of 95 or above to be eligible for the credit.

The credit is no longer 30% of qualified residential energy property costs (including labor), but is now equal to an amount not to exceed:

Any advanced main air circulating fan: Max Credit $50.00
Natural gas, propane, oil furnace or boiler: Max Credit $150.00
Split system air conditioner : Max Credit $300.00
Split system heat pump: Max Credit $300.00
Package air conditioner: Max Credit $300.00
Package heat pump: Max Credit $300.00
Package gas / electric: Max Credit $300.00

In addition, these systems need to meet certain energy requirements.
Geothermal system tax credits are unaffected by these changes and remain in place as is through 12/31/2016.

If you have any questions, or you are thinking about upgrading or replacing your AC System, please call us – Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating – at 941-921-7208. Learn how Sean McCutcheon’s can keep you cool!

If you are interested in seeing if you qualify for any of the tax credits, please see your tax advisor to determine how these credits would apply in your circumstance.

Environmentally Safe Refrigerants

Until recently, R-22 has been the refrigerant of choice for residential air-conditioning systems. The manufacture of R-22 results in a dangerous by-product that adversely affects the environment. Older Air Conditioning systems can develop leaks that are slowly depleting the ozone. R-22 is considered a greenhouse gas.

R-22 is being phased out and manufacturers of residential and commercial air conditioning systems are now offering equipment that uses ozone-friendly refrigerants. Many homeowners have been misinformed about how much longer R-22 will be available to service their central A/C systems.

Sean McCutcheon’s Air conditioning and Heating has been recommending Environmentally Safe refrigerants such as Puron since 2004. Unfortunately not all air conditioning companies have been informing their customers of the phase out of R-22, and as a result customers will see sky rocketing maintenance costs. R-22 has already increased in price over 400% and is now over $31.00 per lb.

Consumers need to take the phase out of R-22 into consideration when purchasing a new A/C system, or when having an existing system repaired.

As of January 1, 2010 the U.S. was required to reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 75%. R-22 may not be used in new equipment. As a result HVAC system manufacturers cannot produce new air conditioners and heat pumps that use R-22.

By January 1, 2020 the U.S. will reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 99.5%. Refrigerant that has been recovered, recycled and reclaimed will be allowed to service existing systems, but chemical manufacturers will no longer be able to produce R-22 to service existing air conditioners.

The Clean Air Act does not allow any refrigerant to be vented into the atmosphere during installation, service, or retirement of equipment. Therefore, R-22 must be recovered and recycled (for reuse in the same system), reclaimed (reprocessed to the same purity standard as new R-22), or destroyed. Sean McCutcheon’s Air conditioning and Heating takes great care to properly dispose of R-22 when removing old units.

We recover the R-22 refrigerant and turn it into reclamation and recycling depots for proper disposal or reuse.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!

What is the Best Air Conditioning System?

Over the years, Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has built a superior reputation when it comes to sales and service of quality Air Conditioning and Heating products for both homeowners and businesses in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Many factors go into choosing the right system for a home or business and Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. takes pride in working closely with clients and educating them so they can make the best decision and choose the system that is most efficient for their needs.

Although we can service and repair all makes and models of Air conditioning and heating equipment – we have certain brands we recommend for a number of reasons. Among the things we look for in a good AC System are:

How energy efficient is it?

Is it the best value for the money?

Is it a well built and reliable system that will last and require the least amount of maintenance?

Will the company stand behind their product and do they offer a great warranty?

Based on our extensive experience working with many different types of Air Conditioning systems, we have certain brands that we highly recommend. The brand we most often advocate would be Bryant. In fact Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. is the largest Bryant dealer in Southwest Florida, and the second largest in the West coast of Florida.

Of course an Air conditioning system is only as good as the contractor who installs it. It can be a great system – but it also relies on the quality of the duct work, and performance depends on the size and condition of your home, the climate where you live and other factors.

This is why we take all of these factors into consideration and spend the time to discuss the different alternatives with you. Our goal is to make sure we give you all of the information you need to choose the right system for your home and your budget.

Whether it is a new installation or routine service, our technicians provide the expertise your comfort depends on.

With regular training, which includes renewal of certifications and licenses, our technicians are some of the best.

Air Duct Cleaning Scams.

The question is "Can your A/C air ducts really be efficiently cleaned?"

Many disreputable Air Conditioning companies offer cheap duct cleaning. They run specials for $49.95 and claim to be able to clean the air in your home. They will scare you with warnings that you have filthy moldy ducts and the health of your family could be in danger.

One company even uses this line " The average single-family home will have gallons of dust collecting on the walls of air ducts..." They offer to clean your vents for $15.00 each. Funny enough - their ad looks like they are holding a vacuum up to an air vent. That must be one powerful vacuum to suck gallons of dust from hundreds of feet of ducts.

There have been horror stories about people spending thousands of dollars just to have an A/C company do nothing more than spray cans of Lysol into the vents while the AC is running and then claim the ducts have been sanitized.

Some companies use special brushes at the end of long poles and claim they can remove the dust, mold, and etc, that way.

So what is the truth about duct cleaning? The truth is that most residential A/C Air Ducts cannot be properly cleaned.

If you have Flexible Ducts the act of stuffing a brush through them will rip the material and create holes in the ductwork. The result: Not only are your ducts not clean - but now you are losing cold air into your attic as well as letting more contaminants (and maybe a few little critters) into your home.

If your ducts are made of fiberglass board - not only can they not be properly cleaned, but the act of trying to clean them will most likely result in filling your ducts, and your home with tiny little fiberglass particles. Some fiberglass ducts have a coating that will reduce the amount of fiberglass particles created - but there will still be more than 50% of the "dust" left remaining.

Unfortunately the only type of ducts designed to be cleaned are usually for commercial applications.

Let us repeat: Very few residential duct systems can be effectively cleaned without dismantling or replacement.

So how about sanitizing ductwork?

One of the most efficient and acceptable ways to sanitize ductwork is by using a type of fog machine that will mist a chemical that can sometimes kill mold growing in ducts. Usually you will have to completely vacate the premises for up to 6 hours while this is going on. Even then, you can only expect a 40% success rate.

Bottom line - beware of duct cleaning scams. Usually the unscrupulous contractor will use this as a means to gain access to your home and intentionally mislead the homeowner into paying hundreds or thousands of dollars for additional work.

At Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating - we want you to you be informed, and we want you to know the facts. Feel free to call or email us anytime you have a question.

At Sean McCutcheons Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. We give our customers the quality and service they expect!