Kerry’s Blog

Unless Frosty Works for You, You Need Commercial Heating

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

You know your employees and customers complain when the air conditioning system isn’t keeping your business cool enough in the summer. They’ll also be unhappy when winter’s chill hits and the heating system isn’t up to snuff. Chances are, you don’t have snow people on your payroll. So, you’ll need to make sure your commercial space is adequately heated once the snow starts flying. What are some factors you need to take into account when heating your building?

Your top priority should be effective and efficient HVAC design for your building. You might be thinking, “Wait! I thought the top priority was customer and employee comfort!” Well, a properly designed HVAC system will allow for the right commercial heating in your space – and that will lend itself to that comfort everyone desires. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, HVAC systems account for 39 percent of the energy used in commercial buildings in the United States. They offer that the use of high-performance HVAC equipment can provide both energy efficiency and cost effectiveness, and when coupled with whole building design considerations, improved comfort and indoor air quality will naturally follow.

It sounds like commercial heating is complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

Of course, commercial heating and building design can get complex. And if you’re not in the HVAC business, the chances are pretty good you’re going to rely on an expert to help you. At T.F. O’Brien, we never want you to have to worry about heating or cooling your building. We are highly trained HVAC professionals with the credentials you can count on for your commercial heating needs. Our technicians don’t just come into your business and install a boiler; we have engineers on staff that take your whole building into account before recommending the appropriate commercial heating installation for your space. We offer complete commercial heating services for both boilers and furnaces, including installation and repair.

And, once winter disappears we won’t – we also offer the best commercial cooling products and services as well. We’re pleased to offer a full range of commercial services including:

With the right commercial heating, your employees won’t have to wear parkas in the office – and will be much more productive than they would be shivering around the coffee maker all day. And the more productive your employees, the better it is for your bottom line.

For the best commercial heating services for your business or organization, count on T.F. O’Brien to meet your needs. We’re pleased to service all of Long Island, including Nassau County, Suffolk County and Brooklyn. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 or fill out our convenient contact form, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Get Ready for Heating Season on Long Island with T.F. O’Brien

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

At Summer’s End, It’s Time to Focus on Furnaces, Boilers, and Heat Pumps

Fall doesn’t officially make its arrival until the end of September. But, you can already get pumpkin spice everything and there is a crispness to the air. You probably won’t have to turn on the heating system in your Long Island home just yet. However, there’s no better time than the present to think about it.

September is a time when people are getting back into routines. One thing you should get in the habit of doing is scheduling the heating maintenance you need for your Long Island home.

Why are heating tune-ups such a big deal?

Heating maintenance does a lot more than tidying up your system. It helps to ensure you won’t suffer a breakdown when the really cold weather hits. That’s why it’s always better to get it checked out earlier than later.

When you get a heating tune-up, yes, of course you’ll get a clean filter. But there’s more to it than that. We check all of your electrical components and evaluate safety controls. We make sure your heating system is getting the right amount of gas, and that your vent system is operating properly. In short, we make sure your heating system is going to be safe and efficient for you to use when the chilly temperatures arrive.

I’ve been thinking about getting a new heating system for my Long Island home. Can T.F. O’Brien help me with that?

If you need a new heating system this year, you should know that you have many options, including high efficiency furnaces, heat pumps, and high velocity and ductless heating. T.F. O’Brien can help you save significantly with manufacturer rebates, utility incentives and money back from us. Not to mention, we offer you the best quality heating equipment available. It offers you and your family optimal home heating, and is built for efficiency and durability.

My heating system was acting a little funny at the end of winter last year. How do I know if I need repairs?

The best time to call T.F. O’Brien for repair services is when you notice something’s not quite right. There are many reasons for this, but the number one reason is your safety. A heating system that’s not working right can emit carbon monoxide. That’s why your best, and safest, bet is to call us right away. But, if you’re simply dissatisfied with your system’s comfort abilities, or if you’ve noticed your utility bills creeping up, you might need some repairs. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to talk with you about your heating issue and come up with a solution.

So I can get heating maintenance, repair and installation for my Long Island home – all from T.F. O’Brien?

Yes! All you need to do is call us and we’ll be happy to help you get whatever heating products and services you need for your Long Island home. Don’t let another cold winter leave you feeling the chill – count on us to help you stay warm no matter how frightful the weather outside may get. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we’ll be glad to assist you.

 

Fall into Home Comfort with T.F. O’Brien

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

With the Change of the Season, Now is the Time to Think About Winter Days

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” In many ways, that’s true. The kids go back to school, and it seems like we start to go back to the routines we cast aside in the summer months. We start preparing for the cooler weather to come and the holiday season that fast approaches. It’s still great, though, to take the time to visit a pumpkin patch or an apple orchard, and enjoy weekend drives to look at the leaves as they start to change.

At T.F. O’Brien, once autumn comes we get back into the routine of helping you prepare your heating system for the winter. If you haven’t already, now is the time to call us to get your fall maintenance scheduled. Preventive maintenance can keep your heating equipment running smoothly all winter long, and can take care of small problems before they become larger ones!

Need a new home comfort system? There’s no better time than the present! Right now, you can save up to $3,070 with our end-of-season sale.

With this offer you’ll get:

  • System Rebate – $1,350 (on select systems)
  • Utility Rebate – $600 (on select systems)
  • 10-year Parts & Materials Warranty – $500 
  • 2 Year Seasonal Tune Ups – $270 
  • Free A/C Cover – $100 
  • Free Wi-Fi Thermostat – $250

TOTAL SAVINGS UP TO $3,070

This is limited time offer is only available until September 24, 2017. Call us right away at 516.488.1800 for details and to take advantage of this great offer!

We hope you have a wonderful September, and thanks for reading.

Enjoy!

Kerry O’Brien

August Message from Kerry

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

August has arrived, and that means the dog days are upon us. August weather can be hazy, hot and humid. Since we still have a lot of summer weather ahead, it’s always a great idea to make sure your air conditioning system is up to snuff. Your home should be a welcome retreat from the hot weather outside. If you’re not as cool as you’d like to be indoors, you can count on the experts at T.F. O’Brien to help.

T.F. O’Brien can help you keep your cool when the dog days are at their hottest.

At T.F. O’Brien, we’re always happy to explain how we can get you into better air conditioning, if it’s time to replace your system. And, did you know your air conditioning system will “tell” you it might be time for repairs? Click here to learn more. Don’t forget about the importance of preventive maintenance – it’s never too late to have us make sure your AC is tuned up the way it should be!

Thanks for reading! Hope you have a wonderful August!

Happy 4th of July from T.F. O’Brien!

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

Summer Peak Season for Fun and AC Repairs

We hope this finds you relaxing and enjoying the beautiful summer weather. July is a fun month, with parades, grad parties and cookouts with friends and families. It’s also the time of year when your AC may very well be running almost constantly. At T.F. O’Brien, we always work hard to help you keep your cool all summer long.

 If you find yourself in need of repairs, just give us a call and we’ll be there to help you as soon as possible. And, if we have a high volume of calls, we always let you know when we’ll be able to get there so you can plan accordingly. If we examine your system and discover that repairs are going to be extensive and costly, we can help you find a new system that’s right for your home – and your budget. As a valued customer, your comfort is always a priority!

This month, thoughts turn to central air conditioning. Is it right for your home? Or maybe ductless or high velocity air conditioning is a better option – these systems can help people who may not have adequate ductwork to support an air conditioning system. Additionally, you can make the most of your AC system via smart thermostat technology. It’s a great choice not only for your primary residence, but for your summer home as well!

We hope you enjoy the warmer weather and fun in the sun! Have a great July.

The Right Commercial HVAC Equals Goldilocks-Approved Workplace Temperatures

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

Once upon a time, workplaces all across the United States were too hot. One day, a gentle inventor named Willis Carrier came along. He created a new machine that could keep spaces nice and cool. That helped workers feel more comfortable and work more productively. But, Mr. Wooly Suit, the head of the office, felt too warm in his heavy clothes and decided to turn the air conditioning way down. Suddenly, most people in the office weren’t comfortable at all. They were too cold! What would it take for everyone at the office to work their best and feel just right? 

It isn’t a fairytale – it’s a likely story in most workplaces. Temperatures are either too hot or too cold – and rarely just right. Of course, you can’t please all the people all the time. But how can you ensure your commercial HVAC system does its job and provides the optimal comfort levels for productivity? In an article on the ThoughtCo. website, it is suggested that many factors besides simple cooling or heating should be taken into account when adjusting office temperatures.

First of all, the article suggests that many of the ideas about office temperature are outdated. Original studies on commercial HVAC were completed at a time when more men than women worked at offices. Many of the men regularly wore heavy suits to work, made from fabrics like wool that weren’t very breathable. As a result, ideal temperatures hovered between 68ºF and 72ºF. Those temperatures might have been perfect for commercial spaces in the 1950s and 1960s. But as more women entered the workforce, and clothing for the office changed, those office temperatures probably should have increased.

A 2015 study changed the way people think about temperatures in commercial spaces.

According to the article, a 2015 study concluded that there are numerous factors companies should take into consideration when it comes to commercial HVAC in their building. The study found that women tend be more susceptible to the cold than men are. And, the colder people feel, the more likely it is they’ll concentrate on ways they can warm up – rather than their work. Also, office settings are much different than they once were. Modern offices are more open, with larger windows and higher ceilings. All of this leads to air temperatures that are a lot different now than they were back in the day of the cubicle.

So what’s the right temperature for my office?

Studies suggest that temperatures that hover between 73ºF and 77ºF may be just right for most office workers, both during the summer and winter months. Having a commercial HVAC system that has been sized appropriately for your building and that uses a programmable thermostat is the best way you can ensure office temperatures are optimal for productivity year-round. That’s why you need the commercial HVAC team at T.F. O’Brien.

We are proud to offer a wide range of solutions for your commercial HVAC needs. Heating and cooling your space, as well as the proper sizing and controls, are all within your reach when you choose us to help. We want you, your employees and your clients to live happily ever after. Just call us at 516-488-1800, and we’ll help you ensure that your office space is not too hot, not too cold… but just right.

How Commercial AC Revolutionized Movie-Going

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating
Willis Carrier

Air Conditioned Theaters Makes Summer Movie Going Popular

Today, we almost take commercial air conditioning for granted. Trips to the mall, the supermarket or the movie theater in the summer provide a reprieve from the hot temperatures. We’re used to most businesses keeping indoor temperatures cool for their customers. And, we sure know when they don’t, or when their AC is on the fritz! You may be surprised to learn that air conditioning in commercial spaces is nothing new. As a matter of fact, commercial air conditioning has been in use for nearly 100 years.

When Willis Carrier first developed air conditioning, it wasn’t for the comfort of people. It was actually invented to help commercial clients keep stable temps during the manufacturing process. According to an article in The Economist, Carrier’s first installation of his air conditioning system was in a print shop in Brooklyn. There, AC was used to prevent paper shrinkage due to humidity, which led to misprinting. But in 1925, Carrier found a way to use commercial air conditioning to keep consumers comfortable – and help the movie industry enjoy better profits.

Carrier offered a cool solution to moviegoers – AC in the theater.

The Eyewitness to History website noted that Willis Carrier saw that theaters lost business during the summer months. As a result, he asked Paramount Pictures to install his commercial air conditioning system in the Rivoli Theater. The theater was being built in Times Square in NYC. It was tested on customers during the theater’s grand opening on Memorial Day, 1925. Moviegoers loved enjoying the film in cool comfort. Having AC installed in the Rivoli Theater made it a great success.

Over the next five years, Carrier went on to install commercial air conditioning systems in 300 movie theaters across the nation. As a result, summer months, which once had created a loss for the film industry, were now the most lucrative time of the year. As time went on, more and more commercial spaces installed air conditioning. Factory workers and office workers alike were found to be more productive when their spaces were cooled with air conditioning. In fact, a 1957 survey showed 90 percent of companies citing “cooled air” as most important to increased productivity.

Getting commercial air conditioning today is as easy as calling T.F. O’Brien.

Of course, there have been many advancements to commercial air conditioning since Willis Carrier installed his first system in 1902. Changing technologies mean modern air conditioning is much more efficient and better for the environment, and is easier to regulate. When you choose T.F. O’Brien help you get commercial air conditioning for your building, you’re choosing a company that’s been around almost as long as AC itself. For more than 80 years, we’ve been helping people get the cool comfort they need – both in their businesses and their homes.

When you need commercial air conditioning for your space, give us a call 516-488-1800, and we will be more than happy to help you.

 

No Ductwork? No Problem. Ductless & High Velocity AC Offer You Options.

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

If you live in an older home, a home with a radiant heating system, or have added on to your home, you might be concerned that you don’t have the ductwork needed to support an air conditioning system. While it’s true that a central AC system requires ductwork in order to effectively cool your home, you might be surprised to learn that nowadays, you have other options. Ductless and high velocity air conditioning is made to cool your home without the need for extensive, large ductwork. You’ll be able to enjoy a cooler indoor climate with minimal construction and mess.

What are ductless air conditioning systems?

Ductless air conditioning systems are high efficiency cooling and heating systems that help keep spaces with no ductwork as comfortable as those with. Ductless air conditioning systems are generally used in a single space, but there are multi-unit options available as well. Ductless air conditioning can be used not only in spaces that have no ductwork, but they are also a great option for balancing out hot and cold spots in your home or office, increasing the energy efficiency in surrounding spaces, or providing precise temperature control in areas where climate control is essential.

For more information,
Call or click here:
516.488.1800

Ductless air conditioning systems mount directly to the wall or ceiling and blend well with virtually any décor. Window air conditioning units can be unattractive and block your view – with ductless air conditioning, which are non-obtrusive and quiet, the only thing you’ll likely notice is the improved comfort level in the room. What’s more, T.F. O’Brien provides expert installation, so we can install the unit in your Long Island home or business in just a few hours, with no patching, painting or additional ductwork required.

What is high velocity AC?

If you live in an older, multi-story home that lacks ductwork, and are in need of improved home cooling, then why not think about a high velocity air conditioner? This is the ideal system for adding air conditioning to homes where larger ductwork may be impossible or impractical. High velocity air conditioning helps to ensure a dehumidified, cooler environment, and provide complete and thorough air circulation.

High velocity air conditioning systems use a type of indoor equipment known as an air handler, outdoor equipment, a line set of pipes that connect the indoor and outdoor units, and small-diameter ductwork which transfers the cooled air throughout your home. A standard thermostat controls the system, which discharges the cooled air at targeted locations throughout your home.

How can I get ductless or high velocity for my home?

If you think ductless or high velocity air conditioning sounds like a great option for your Long Island home or business and would like to find out more, T.F. O’Brien is ready to assist you. T.F. O’Brien proudly serves all of Long Island, including Nassau County, Suffolk County, and Brooklyn. Simply call us at 516.488.1800, and we’ll tell you about the different options for air conditioning and help you find the solution most suited to your needs.

Is AC Repair Needed for Your New Hyde Park Home… Or Is It Time to Replace?

Posted on by T.F. O'Brien Cooling & Heating

Making the Decision About Repairs or Replacement for Your AC?

The steamy summer months have arrived in New York. Chances are, you’ve already turned on the air conditioning. Have you noticed that your home simply isn’t as cool as it ought to be? Then, you might be considering AC repair for your New Hyde Park home. Nothing is worse than expecting the good old AC to kick on, only to discover that it’s working poorly – or not at all.

But how do you know if you should repair the air conditioning system in your New Hyde Park home, or replace it with a new one? The folks at ENERGY STAR have provided consumers with a few scenarios in which replacement may be more ideal than AC repair. You might want to give T.F. O’Brien a call if:

The AC in your New Hyde Park home is more than 10 years old.

The older your system is, the more likely it will need AC repair. Not to mention, older systems are far less energy-efficient than their modern counterparts. You could be spending a lot more on your utility bills than you need to.

This isn’t your first rodeo calling us for AC repair.

We’re always happy to see you; really, we are. But we also know the cost of AC repairs can add up. We don’t want you spending more than you should on fixes to a system that’s going to keep failing. We can help you find a new air conditioning system for your home that fits your needs – and your budget.

The humidity levels in your home are outrageous.

No matter how good your air conditioning system is, the hottest, most humid days are still going to produce some moisture in your home. But, if you have AC, you should be able to enjoy drier indoor air even when it’s muggy outside. If you’ve noticed the AC system in your home isn’t doing as good of a job as it used to at keeping moisture at bay, there’s likely a problem.

Your energy bills are through the roof.

If the AC system in your New Hyde Park home is performing poorly, you’ll probably be noticeably less comfortable. Some rooms may feel warmer than others, you might have noticed that your system is noisy, and there might even be excess dust in your home. If you notice all of these factors, and your energy bills have gotten ridiculously high, then it’s a surefire sign your AC system is not up to snuff.

We get that nobody wants to think about replacing their air conditioning system. It’s an expensive venture. You as a consumer need to weigh the pros and cons of the situation. If you’re not comfortable in your home, if your energy bills are high, and if you’re spending a lot on repairs, are you really saving that much money? A new system will offer you efficiency, so you can save more on your bills. It will keep you cooler without running as much. And, depending on the types of repairs needed, your replacement will likely be the less expensive choice in the long run.

Of course, if you do decide AC repairs are the way to go for your New Hyde Park home, T.F. O’Brien can help. We’ll never suggest a replacement to you unless we think it’s necessary. What’s more, we’ll make all repairs promptly and effectively, so you’ll be able to enjoy cool comfort in no time. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800 and we will be happy to assist you.