Wednesday, April 24, 2013



Why should I replace my existing heating or air conditioning system?

You may wish to consider replacing your air conditioning or heating system if it is old, inefficient or in need of repair. Today's systems are as much as 60 percent more efficient than those systems manufactured as little as ten years ago. In addition, if not properly maintained, wear and tear on a system can reduce the actual or realized efficiency of the system. If you are concerned about utility bills or are faced with an expensive repair, you may want to consider replacing your system rather than enduring another costly season or paying to replace an expensive component. The utility cost savings of a new unit may provide an attractive return on your investment. If you plan on financing the purchase, the monthly savings on your utility bill should be considered when determining the actual monthly cost of replacing a system. The offsetting savings may permit you to purchase a more efficient system.

...

 How expensive are air conditioning and heat pump systems?

Many factors affect the cost of a heating or air conditioning system, including the size of your home, the type and condition of the ductwork installed and accessories you might need such as a thermostat or an electronic air cleaner. We have a complete range of systems and accessories available to meet all your needs, including your financial ones! Your local dealer will be happy to assist you in finding the right system to meet not only your comfort needs but also your household budget.

...

 How do I select the right heating/cooling system?

First, make sure the unit is properly sized. Your York Dealer will provide a load calculation for your home. Also ask the dealer to provide an energy analysis to determine operating cost. Next, consider any comfort issues in the home. Some products can reduce air stratification and uneven temperatures from room to room. If you have allergies, an indoor unit with an ECM motor will allow you to circulate the air in your home continuously while filtering the air for about the same cost as operating a standard light bulb. Finally, know your budget parameters and the efficiency of the system being proposed. Does the system offer a payback? In other words, will the monthly savings over time offset the cost of the new unit or efficiency option being considered?

...

 What is involved in replacing an old system?

Aside from the placement of the new equipment, your York Dealer will inspect several items and determine whether they need to be supplied or replaced. Some of the items include: ductwork, insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service, wiring, thermostat, condensate piping, flue piping, flue terminations, chimney liner, slabs, filter, driers, registers, grills, drain pans and evaporator coil.

...

 What is involved in installing a new system?

If a system is being added to the home for the first time, most of the items noted in the previous question and answer may be required to install the new system. Besides the equipment, the most significant component is ductwork. The ductwork can be made of either metal or fiberglass. The ductwork needs to be properly sized to deliver the right amount of air to each room. A central air conditioning system uses supply and return ducts. The supply duct is attached to the outlet of the furnace or air handler and delivers air to individual zones in your home. Your York Dealer will determine the size of the ductwork going into a space by the amount of air that needs to be delivered to the space.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013


ASK EVENFLOW GUY......
 
What is the best thermostat to use with my system?

The York Affinity Residential Communicating Control provides a color touch screen interface that is easy for you to use and is specially designed to talk to intelligent York products to ensure maximum performance.

...

Should I be concerned about Indoor Air Quality?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency EPA, your exposure to air pollutants can be up to 100 times higher indoors than outdoors. York indoor air quality products handle pollutants, humidity and other issues to improve your health.

...

 What does the air handler do for my system?

An air handler circulates conditioned air produced by heating and cooling equipment throughout your home. Along with the air handler, it is easy to filter, humidify or dehumidify the air stream as needed.

 
 

Thursday, April 11, 2013

 
 

INTRODUCING:
 
 EVENFLOW ANSWER GUY

Are you a do it yourselfer?
 
Wondering how often to change your filter?
 
Wondering if it is time to replace your unit?
 
We want to hear from you!

 
 
Simply:

 
  • Go to the 'Contact' tab
  • 'Ask Evenflow Guy', complete form
  • Pose your question in the 'Comments' section
  • Your question will be answered within 24 hours
 
 
We look forward to hearing from you!
 
 
 
 

Wednesday, April 10, 2013


Frequently Asked Questions


 

Q:

What is the best thermostat to use with my system?

A:

The York Affinity Residential Communicating Control provides a color touch screen interface that is easy for you to use and is specially designed to talk to intelligent York products to ensure maximum performance.

...

Q:

Should I be concerned about Indoor Air Quality?

A:

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your exposure to air pollutants can be up to 100 times higher indoors than outdoors. York indoor air quality products handle pollutants, humidity and other issues to improve your health.

...

 Q:

What does the air handler do for my system?

A:

An air handler circulates conditioned air produced by heating and cooling equipment throughout your home. Along with the air handler, it is easy to filter, humidify or dehumidify the air stream as needed.

...


 

Q:

Why should I replace my existing heating or air conditioning system?

A:

You may wish to consider replacing your air conditioning or heating system if it is old, inefficient or in need of repair. Todays systems are as much as 60% more efficient than those systems manufactured as little as ten years ago. In addition, if not properly maintained, wear and tear on a system can reduce the actual or realized efficiency of the system. If you are concerned about utility bills or are faced with an expensive repair, you may want to consider replacing your system rather than enduring another costly season or paying to replace an expensive component. The utility cost savings of a new unit may provide an attractive return on your investment. If you plan on financing the purchase, the monthly savings on your utility bill should be considered when determining the actual monthly cost of replacing a system. The offsetting savings may permit you to purchase a more efficient system.

...

 Q:

How expensive are air conditioning and heat pump systems?

A:

Many factors affect the cost of a heating or air conditioning system, including the size of your home, the type and condition of the ductwork installed and accessories you might need such as a thermostat or an electronic air cleaner. We have a complete range of systems and accessories available to meet all your needs, including your financial ones! Your local dealer will be happy to assist you in finding the right system to meet not only your comfort needs but also your household budget.

...

 Q:

How do I select the right heating/cooling system?

A:

First, make sure the unit is properly sized. Your York Dealer will provide a load calculation for your home. Also ask the dealer to provide an energy analysis to determine operating cost. Next, consider any comfort issues in the home. Some products can reduce air stratification and uneven temperatures from room to room. If you have allergies, an indoor unit with an ECM motor will allow you to circulate the air in your home continuously while filtering the air for about the same cost as operating a standard light bulb. Finally, know your budget parameters and the efficiency of the system being proposed. Does the system offer a payback? In other words, will the monthly savings over time offset the cost of the new unit or efficiency option being considered?

...

 Q:

What is involved in replacing an old system?

A:

Aside from the placement of the new equipment, your York Dealer will inspect several items and determine whether they need to be supplied or replaced. Some of the items include: ductwork, insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service, wiring, thermostat, condensate piping, flue piping, flue terminations, chimney liner, slabs, filter, driers, registers, grills, drain pans and evaporator coil.

...

 Q:

What is involved in installing a new system?

A:

If a system is being added to the home for the first time, most of the items noted in the previous question and answer may be required to install the new system. Besides the equipment, the most significant component is ductwork. The ductwork can be made of either metal or fiberglass. The ductwork needs to be properly sized to deliver the right amount of air to each room. A central air conditioning system uses supply and return ducts. The supply duct is attached to the outlet of the furnace or air handler and delivers air to individual zones in your home. Your York Dealer will determine the size of the ductwork going into a space by the amount of air that needs to be delivered to the space.

...


Q:

How long can I expect a new system to last?

A:

If you have a qualified technician perform regular preventative maintenance and service suggested for your unit, industry averages suggest that an air conditioner should last 12-15 years (sea coast applications may be less) and a gas furnace should last as many as 20-25 years.

...

 Q:

Should I change my indoor coil?

A:

When replacing your air conditioner or heat pump, the answer is most likely yes. The efficiency ratings that are advertised for an air conditioner or heat pump are based on the performance as part of a matched system. If only the outdoor portion is changed, the efficiency and savings could be less than that of a matched system.

...

 Q:

Where do I get replacement parts?

A:

Contact your York Dealer for help obtaining replacement parts.

...

 Q:

What is covered in my warranty?

A:

All York products come with a written limited warranty on parts. This warranty states that a replacement part will be furnished for any part of the product that fails in normal use and service during the applicable warranty period specified in accordance with the warranty's terms. Your authorized York Dealer can review with you the warranty periods for the products you select.

Wednesday, April 3, 2013


CSLB Press Release - 03/18/13

Contractors State License Board Cracks Down on Unlicensed Activity during California Blitz Operation

Repeat offenders slow to learn crime does not pay

SACRAMENTO Nearly 80 people face criminal charges after being caught in simultaneous statewide undercover sting operations conducted this week by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Among those arrested during CSLBs spring California Blitz were a registered sex offender, a suspect with a prior conviction for statutory rape, an individual with an active arrest warrant for corporal punishment of a minor child, one on federal probation for bribery, and several caught using contractor license numbers not belonging to them.

Investigators from CSLBs Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) conducted stings on March 13 and 14, 2013, in Orange (Orange County), Lawndale (Los Angeles County), San Bernardino (San Bernardino County), Chico (Butte County), Oakdale (Stanislaus County), and Bakersfield (Kern County). SWIFT investigators posed as homeowners seeking bids for home improvements such as painting, electrical, landscaping, flooring, drywall, swimming pool maintenance, concrete, masonry, and tree removal work.

A total of 78 individuals were arrested and now may face misdemeanor charges for contracting without a license (Business and Professions Code section 7028). The penalty for a conviction is up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000. At least one is a repeat offender and could face a mandatory 90-day jail sentence if convicted a second time.

Fifty-seven of the individuals also may be charged with illegal advertising (Business and Professions Code section 7027.1). State law requires contractors to place their license number in all print, broadcast, and online advertisements. Those without a license can advertise to perform jobs valued at less than $500, but the ad must state that they are not a licensed contractor. The penalty is a fine of $700 to $1,000.

Twenty-four others may be charged with requesting an excessive down payment (Business and Professions Code section 7159.5). In California, a home improvement project down payment cannot exceed 10 percent of the contract total or $1,000, whichever is less. This misdemeanor charge carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and/or up to a $5,000 fine.

Seventeen of the phony contractors also were issued Stop Orders (Business and Professions Code section 7127). CSLB investigators can halt job site activity when any person with or without a contractor license does not have workers compensation insurance coverage for employees. Failure to comply with a Stop Order can result in misdemeanor charges and penalties, including 60 days in jail and/or up to $10,000 in fines.

Fourteen suspects were detained by the Department of Homeland Security / U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for identification and/or deportation. One suspect fled the scene in Bakersfield.

Operation totals may increase as some suspects are expected to provide their bids via email or fax. A majority of those caught this week were identified through ads on craigslist.org.

STING NOTES

Chico

 Arrest of Guillermo Serrano Tejas, whose license (#500728) was revoked in 1990.

Oakdale

 Arrest of Emilio Quakenbush, who gave a $22,500 bid for drywall work, is a registered sex offender.

 Arrest of Michael Anthony Giuiland, who used a CSLB license number not belonging to him. Giuiland is on federal probation for bribery.

Bakersfield

 Arrest of Benigno Arguelles Martinez, who has a prior conviction for statutory rape.

 Arrest of Gustavo Martinez and Juan Garcia Torres after they portrayed themselves as business partners and gave a bid to replace a driveway. When CSLB investigators identified themselves, Torres fled in their vehicle, leaving his partner behind. Torres had previous deportations and served prison time for illegal entry.

 Arrest of Juan Manuel Villanueva, who was taken into custody for having false identification and on an arrest warrant for corporal punishment of a minor child and vehicle theft.

 Arrest of Jerry Allen Hensen, who brought an employee with him to give a bid to remove three 60- to 70-foot trees. The employee was carrying drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine, and was taken into custody. His is vehicle was impounded.

Lawndale

 Arrest of Edward Fragoso, whose CSLB license (#925861) was suspended in December 2010 and has since expired.

 Arrest of Julio Jimenez, who was caught in a CSLB undercover sting in April 2012, and later convicted. He was ordered to serve 10 days in jail and three years probation. A second conviction would carry a mandatory 90-day jail sentence.

Orange

 Arrest of Kyle Raymond Kovacovsky, who gave undercover investigators a $7,500 bid to replace swimming pool equipment.

San Bernardino

Ricardo Marquez-Martinez is to be deported for felony drug, burglary, and firearms violations.

Suspect Juan Ayala Colunga is to be deported by ICE on felony charges including corporal abuse.

CSLB and its partners in law enforcement are serious about enforcing our states consumer protection laws,  says CSLB Registrar Steve Sands. Unlicensed, illegal activity that puts homeowners at risk and puts those who follow state laws at a competitive disadvantage will not be tolerated.

Arrest tallies from each sting location are available by clicking HERE.

Participating agencies from the two-day blitz are noted below.

Location
Notices to Appear
Partner Agencies
Orange
Orange County
14
City of Orange Police Department
California Employment Development Department
Lawndale
Los Angeles County
12
Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department
Department of Homeland Security / U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
San Bernardino
San Bernardino County
12
Department of Homeland Security / U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
City of San Bernardino Police Department
Chico
Butte County
6
Butte County District Attorneys Office
Oakdale
Stanislaus County
21
Stanislaus County District Attorneys Office
Department of Consumer Affairs Division of Investigation
California Employment Development Department
Bakersfield
Kern County
13
Kern County District Attorneys Office
Department of Homeland Security / U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
California Department of Insurance

 

CSLB urges consumers to follow these tips before hiring anyone to work in or around their home or business:

Look for the contractors state license number. California law requires it to be in all forms of advertising.

If the contractor does not have a state license, the ad must state that fact.

In California, unlicensed people can not work on jobs valued at $500 or more (combined labor and materials).

Do not be misled by unlicensed contractors who give you a business or handyman license number.

Always check the license number at CSLBs website, or www.CheckTheLicenseFirst.com to make sure the license is in good standing, and that employees are covered by workers compensation insurance.

Contractors are required to have their plastic pocket license or Home Improvement Salesperson registration card with them. Ask to see it when getting your bid.

Do not pay more than 10 percent or $1,000, whichever is less, as a down payment.

Ask to see a photo ID to verify the persons identity.

Do not pay in cash, and do not let payments get ahead of the work.

Get at least three bids, check references, and get a written contract.

The California Contractors State License Board operates under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs. More information and publications about hiring contractors are available on CSLBs website or by calling (800) 321-CSLB (2752). You also can sign up for CSLB email alerts.

CSLB licenses and regulates Californias 300,000 contractors, and is regarded as one of the leading consumer protection agencies in the United States. In fiscal year 2011-12, CSLB helped recover nearly $36 million in ordered restitution for consumers.