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Which Water Heater is
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“WHY CHOOSE MY COMPANIES?” Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Scott Vigue President,
Scott’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
“IF YOU ARE NOT 100% SATISFIED WITH MY COMPANIES AFTER TALKING TO A MANAGER CALL THIS THIRD PARTY ORGANIZATION. UWIN HAS THE AUTHORITY TO MOVE HEAVEN AND EARTH TO SATISFY MY CUSTOMERS!”
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1-877-UWIN 877655uwin.com
CONTENTS
6
14
6 greetings by Scott Vigue
yourself & your 14 protect equipment during & after a storm
7 journey: 8 scott’s from independence to franchise eight plumbing tips
by Clair Cameron
12
partnering with children’s miracle network
22
family recipe: peanut butter cheesecake layered brownies
24
know the symptoms: failing pipes
by Nate Freyberger
16 what to expect when you call 18 spreading the word water heater is 20 which best for you
by Maxine Reneé
26
by Clair Cameron
by Garrett Chilson
consider this when choosing a water purification system by Maxine Reneé
28
lets talk drain clogs by Nathan Freyberger
© 2015 DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Comfort Zone is a free publication owned by DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. and distributed locally by Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating. If you would like copies placed at your business please call our offices at 866-930-2751. Produced in whole or in part by CustomDesignMags.com & DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc., 4305 62nd Street. East Bradenton Florida. 34208. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and or advertisements, nor are we responsible in any way for the products and services advertised or promoted within these pages. For information on this or other printed publications produced by CustomDesignMags. com & DeWayne Thomas A Media Company, Inc. please call our offices at 941-538-7770 or visit us on the web at customdesignmags.com™.
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PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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30
38
36
32 30 understanding warranties 31 financing options are protection plans? 32 what by Nathan Freyberger plan: ben franklin 33 protection plumbing
RECIPE INSIDE!
34 meet the team
866-930-2751 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
5
GREETINGS This is our premiere issue of Comfort Zone Magazine, a publication written to give you detailed information about our history, our civic involvement within the community, and to help you get the most from your air conditioning and plumbing services. We hope you leave this magazine more comfortable in choosing Scott’s One Hour Air and Ben Franklin Plumbing. This magazine is just one more way for us to personalize our service, giving you a better idea of who we are and what we’re all about.
GREETINGS Scott Vigue President,
Scott’s One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
I
started this company in 1989 as Scott Vigue Plumbing, offering only plumbing services to big commercial new construction at that time. This company has grown steadily since then, expanding into air conditioning, and altering our business model to offer residential services. Today, our plumbing and air conditioning services are offered under the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air franchises, which has allowed us to grow at a more rapid pace while improving the way we serve our customers.
Without our customers, Scott’s One Hour and Ben Franklin Plumbing would never have enjoyed over two decades of growth and expansion. Because of customers like you, I am able to provide for my family and offer quality jobs to people in the community. I hope as this company continues to grow, we will only get better at serving the needs of you and your family.
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PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
BenFranklinFlorida.com
Scott’s One Hour and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are known for quick, reliable service at a fair price. Our service technicians will arrive on time or you don’t pay anything – guaranteed. Our screening process for new employees is intense, with 34 out of 35 applicants being denied a position. I developed this 17-step interview process because I only want to hire the best people. I want you to feel comfortable letting our service techs into your home, and I only hire technicians who I would feel safe having in mine. I would never provide my customers with products or services that I myself wouldn’t be comfortable receiving. On behalf of everyone at Scott’s One Hour Air and Ben Franklin Plumbing, I want to thank you for your business and for taking the time to read our magazine. I hope to earn your trust through continued quality service, and I welcome any feedback you may have. From my family to yours, thank you for choosing Scott’s.
Sincerly,
Scott Vigue President
eight
PLUMBING TIPS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW
1
5
3
Dishwashers and Washing Machines
It may be a wise idea to run your dishwasher and washing machines at night or while you’re busy with other things. This helps conserve warm water and stabilize water pressure in the home. Remember to keep these machines clean – remove any debris from filters or drains.
2
Garbage Disposals
Turn the disposal on before you add food, and watch what you throw in there. Avoid bones and other difficult-to-grind foods that could damage your unit. After use, continue to run water in order to flush food particles down the line.
7
Outdoor Water Flow Keep your gutters clean and free of debris. If your property contains a drainage ditch, remember to keep it mowed and remove any tree branches or other items that could potentially block the flow of water.
6
Toilets
Never flush tissues, cotton swabs, tampons, or anything else down the toilet that shouldn’t go there. Make sure to check to see that your tank refills and flushes properly. If you notice any clogs or slow draining, fix it immediately.
Drains
Never pour oil down the drains. Avoid and remove any hair or food that may be blocking the flow of water. After doing dishes, let the water run for a minute to assure that any grease and debris is washed away.
4
Water Quality
Have your water tested for any imperfections, and always filter your water before you drink it. Most homes would also benefit from a complete water purification and softener system. These remove hard minerals and filter out unwanted additives.
Valves
Always know where your main shut off valve is in case of a flood. Turn your valves on and off from time-to-time to prevent them from sticking. Consider adding some sealant or lubricant to stop outside valves from rusting shut.
8
Water Heater
To prevent burns, keep your water heater turned to a safe temperature. If your water heater is over 15 years old, consider a replacement. It’s likely burning too much energy and if it ends up failing, a repair could end up costing you big.
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OURSTORY
Serving the community 25+ years!
Scott’s Journey:
From Independence to Franchisee by Clair Cameron
Over 150,000 Happy Customers!
I
n March of 2015, Scott Vigue, the owner of Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, celebrated 26 years of being in business. Today, Scott’s businesses are part of larger franchise organizations, and his companies offer a range of air conditioning, heating and plumbing services to residential customers all over the Tampa Bay area. But when the company was first founded, things were quite different. “It all started March, 9th 1989. We were called Scott Vigue Plumbing, and we were just doing plumbing. We were 8
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
actually just mainly into big commercial and new construction at the time,” says Scott. “And right around, I believe, about 1994, we had changed the name to Scott’s Plumbing, and we started serving residential customers. We were in mainly commercial new construction for the first five years of our existence.” During that time, Scott began expanding his company. He changed the name of his business again, this time to Scott’s Services, and his rapidly growing company began offering air conditioning services to residential customers, while still continuing their plumbing operation.
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With his primary focus now on servicing homes, Scott joined the Contractors’ Success Group, a trade organization that gives contractors a network of support and contacts. Little did Scott know that his relationship with Contractors’ Success Group would lead to dramatic changes in the way he did business. It would also later be the starting point for moving Scott’s into the One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin franchises. “[Contractors’ Success Group] was a group of about 700 members – likeminded members – that, what we did is, we shared different operating philosophies
and marketing ideas in the business of plumbing service and air conditioning service,” says Scott. “We joined this group, and it totally changed the whole model of our company. We got out of the new construction business totally after we joined this group. They helped us along to become a retail company and a residential customer-oriented business. We stayed with them, and started growing the business in both plumbing and air conditioning residential service.” In 1997, Contractors’ Success Group went public and was sold off. Scott was not part of the public sale, and his relationship with the consulting firm came to an end. But it wasn’t long before new opportunities for continued support arose. “Two years later, the original owners of Contractors’ Success Group started a new consulting firm called Plumbers’ Success International, and another called AirTime 500—an air conditioning consulting group, and so I joined [both organizations]. They continued to help us build our business and improve the way we marketed our services.” Over the years, Scott had developed a personal relationship with the owners of these consulting firms, Jim Abrams and John Young. Crediting them for helping him to build a successful company, Scott stuck with Abrams and Young when they decided to turn their trade or-
ganization into franchise opportunities. In 2005, Plumbers Success International morphed into the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air franchises, transforming the consulting firm into fullservice business opportunities. Scott quickly followed along, splitting Scott’s Services and transitioning its plumbing operation over to a Ben Franklin franchise. A year later, Scott’s Services was dissolved entirely when the One Hour Air franchise was adopted for the company’s air conditioning wing. Although transitioning to a franchise operation was expensive and rather complicated, Scott made the decision to do so for a couple of reasons: “We could serve our customers better, and we could serve our employees better,” he says. “We could serve our customers better because, being with such a large entity, it meant we had more buying power in the market. So, we could buy equipment and supplies (at a better rate), therefore giving our customers a better deal on their plumbing and air conditioning services. “(Transitioning to the franchise) also helped our employees greatly. Now being part of a large entity, we could bring better benefits to them; we could bring a career path to them, give them an opportunity to move up into a franchise. So, joining the franchise business really benefitted them.”
The franchise also offered Scott and his family some security: “If something were to happen to me, if I were to die or get incapacitated, the businesses would be tied to the franchise, and my wife would have plenty of help,” says Scott. “So, a big factor when I switched to the franchise was my family.” Transforming Scott’s Services into two franchises was initially confusing to the company’s established customer base. However, ultimately the re-branding alleviated confusions a lot of people had about what types of services Scott’s Services offered. “That’s why we separated the plumbing and the air conditioning – instead of calling it Scott’s Services, that really doesn’t say much – Ok, services what, you know?,” Scott says. “One Hour Air said something – we service air conditioners, and we’re quick about it. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing – they’re The Punctual Plumber; that’s an existing plumbing services brand.” Since adopting the franchise business models, Scott’s company has grown at a rapid pace. In 2005 when the transition started, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing made over $5 million in sales. Today, they are doing around $20 million in sales annually between the two companies, and Scott thinks the franchise brands are largely to thank for that. PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
9
OURSTORY
“We’ve tripled our sales. We’ve grown 300% since joining the franchise,” he says. “We have a nationwide recognizable brand. In terms of marketing, we have other franchises in the area we partner with, and so it made it very powerful; we’ve had tremendous growth.” During the crash of the credit markets in 2008, contractors took a big hit. Many laid off workers and cut back on services. Some even closed their doors entirely. Since people were losing their jobs and homes, contractors that serviced residential customers were feeling the effects. However, unlike many of their competitors, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing were surprisingly not affected by the bad economy. “We continued to grow at a pace of 20 – 25% on each company respectively. We just kept on marching; [the crash] didn’t affect us one bit. As a matter of fact, business got better,” says Scott. “We actually increased our marketing budget by more than 40% in ’08 when the crash happened … we never saw an economic turndown with our business.” 10 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
Certainly being part of larger franchise brands played a part in shielding Scott’s from the economic downturn. However, even when his company was completely independent, Scott never once saw a loss in profits or any sort of decline in growth. “We’ve never had a year, in the 25 years I’ve been in business, where we have gone backwards. We have never not grown. In 25 years, our sales have always increased—for 25 consecutive years, and in this business that’s pretty tough—extremely tough,” Scott says. Presently, Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing provide jobs to more than 90 people and has over 60 trucks on the road on any given day. Still, the company plans to continue to grow rapidly. Next year, Scott hopes to open up new locations and expand into new service areas. “In the next year, we’re going to be moving to open up satellite offices, which is going to open up opportunities for some of our employees to move into management,” he says. “Instead of operating out of
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one location, which is becoming increasingly difficult, these satellite offices will allow us to localize our brands in the areas we service. We’ll be able to service our customers quicker by being local, and it’ll also give us an opportunity to increase our visibility.” As Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing continue to expand, new opportunities will arise for the company’s employees to turn their jobs into lifelong careers. More than that, Scott’s customers will receive services at a cheaper rate. Although Scott Vigue is happy with his company’s $20 million in annual sales, he’d like to see that number to continue to grow. “We’d like to be north of probably 30 million in sales. Our goal eventually is to hit the 40 – 50 million in sales with the company in the next ten years. We have an ambitious plan to move the company forward, and that’s what we’re going to do,” he says.
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COMMUNITY
Partnering With
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals by Garrett Chilson
F
ounded in 1983, the nonprofit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised over $4.7 billion for children’s hospitals internationally. The money they raise is sent to over 170 hospitals in the United States and Canada, where it’s used to buy equipment, pay for direct care and fund valuable research that leads to new advancements which have saved the lives of countless children. The Children’s Miracle Network believes that the hospitals who care for patients know best how to allocate money for medical services; sometimes funds are used to cover care expenses for children from low-income families, other times the money is used to help a children’s hospital expand and grow. Healthcare institutions that partner with the Children’s Miracle Network receive a new patient every second. These hospitals are everywhere, and chances are good that you have one near you. One of the charity’s primary goals is to make sure that local kids—based on local needs—are the ones who benefit from donations. Meaning, when you donate to the Children’s Miracle Network at a local business, there’s a decent chance that the money you donate will go directly to your local children’s hospital.
12 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
In terms of its charitable rating, the Children’s Miracle Network scores a high ranking with the Better Business Bureau and Charity Navigator, two organizations which rate non-profits based on factors such as financial spending and transparency. Each has given the Children’s Miracle Network a perfect score, reporting that over 89% of money raised went directly to their program expenses. The Children’s Miracle network began in 1983 as a telethon hosted by celebrity entertainer Marie Osmond at her family’s television studio. That telethon raised an initial $4.8 million for 22 children’s hospitals, and led to the founding of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals non-profit. To this day, the annual telethon, called A Celebration of Real Miracles, is an invaluable source of funds. Held every weekend in June, the event raises millions for the charity. In 2013 alone, the annual telethon brought in over $4 million in donations. Events such as these are only one way for the Children’s Miracle Network to raise money. The non-profit also teams up with a variety of corporate partners, developing clever ways to drive in charitable funds—typically $1 at a time. Sometimes this is done by having a business ask their customers
BenFranklinFlorida.com
for a donation directly, which usually results in the donor’s name being written on a balloon and taped to the business’s wall. Other companies have worked out deals where certain purchases equal dollars donated. Relationships such as these are mutually beneficial, since they encourage sales for a business while also raising money for worthy charitable causes. The One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchises has joined the list of corporate partners that help children all over the United States and Canada get the best possible healthcare. Scott’s One Hour and Ben Franklin Plumbing will be making regular contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network, and they will also be collecting donations from their customers. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals benefit the lives of an extraordinary number of children every year. Their commitment to low overhead costs means that more money reaches the local kids who need it most. Without generous donors and the hard work of its corporate partners, the Children’s Miracle Network wouldn’t be able to touch as many lives as they do today. Thanks to children’s charities that benefit local hospitals, many children can now grow up to live a full, happy life.
For more information on how you can help Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, please visit their website at ChildrensMiracleNetworkHospitals.org.
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
13
PROTIP
Protect Yourself and Your Equipment During and After a Storm by Nate Freyburger
D
uring and after a severe thunderstorm, tornado, or hurricane—any storm that brings with it water and lightning—homeowners need to be cautious about using their heating, air conditioning, and plumbing appliances. If you don’t take proper precautions, you risk hurting yourself or causing permanent damage to your equipment that could end up costing you big. “It’s important to remember not to immediately restart heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm because it can be dangerous and could cause further damage,” said Scott Vigue, President Scott’s One Hour and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. “The equipment may be severely damaged, its wiring may be damaged or it may have debris lodged in it. These are some of the many reasons why it’s best to have a qualified service technician inspect your heating and cooling equipment after a severe storm.” After a storm, it’s natural to want to get things back up and running as soon as possible. But before you turn your air conditioner or heater back on, take
14 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
the proper steps to reduce the risk of damaging your expensive equipment by assuring it is dry, clean, and otherwise safe to use: • If the storm caused flooding, check all equipment thoroughly before you start it. If you aren’t absolutely sure the inner components are dry, don’t turn anything on. • If there was any flooding, open your equipment and appliances. Let air circulate; this will help with drying. • It may be a good idea to have an electrician inspect your home’s wiring to make sure everything is dry and safe to use before you plug anything in or turn anything on. • Additionally, it may be wise to have your heating and cooling equip-
BenFranklinFlorida.com
ment inspected by a service company. Just make sure you work with someone reputable, since some businesses will seek out storm area victims just to make a quick buck. The above rules should also apply to any appliance related to your home’s plumbing. However, the major risk for damaging plumbing equipment (not to mention harming yourself) comes primarily during a storm. Plumbing equipment uses water, which is the ideal conductor for lightning. It is possible to be struck by
lightning while inside your home if you’re not careful. Using the shower, sink, or other plumbing appliances during a storm could cause an electric shock. If lightning strikes your home or anywhere near your home, you could end up getting electrocuted through the metal pipes and the water you’re using. One way to reduce the risk of unwanted damage caused by lightning is to use PVC pipes in your home. Unlike metal pipes, PVC pipes will not conduct electricity, making it safer to use plumbing during a storm. Still, it’s probably best not to use your plumbing at all until after it passes. Overall, during storms it’s advised that you use as few electronic devices, plumbing equipment, and appliances as possible until the storm has passed and you’ve dealt with all the after effects. Your safety and the safety of your expensive equipment is worth a few extra minutes of inconvenience.
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
15
What to Expect “It's a terrific day at Scott’s One Hour/Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, How may I help you?”
“I need maintenance/service on my home” (Service and Maintence Customers receive Priority Scheduling)
We will verify name, address and schedule appointment
16 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
BenFranklinFlorida.com
“I would like a free estimate on getting a new air conditioner”
Tech gets dispatched to your home (Reduced diagnostic charge for Service and Maintenance Customers)
u C o all Y n e h W
Comfort Advisor provides you with good, better, best offer and schedules installation date
Unit is installed (we pride ourselves on clean installation) Final inspection is passed
Equipment is registered and warrantied with Manufacturer.
Diagnosis made, check for price and availability (you will receive a detailed service report regarding the condition of your unit,(no hidden fees)
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Call 866-930-2751
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
17
TESTIMONIALS Courtesy call was very timely, the tech was out in just under 15 minutes from the call. He took care of the AC issues, was very polite and considerate of our space. He took the time to explain options about the repair and ways to protect the AC unit in the future. Matt R. was a great tech and super relatable. It gave me a good feeling about the company. I’ve never done business with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning but after this experience would gladly recommend them to friends and family. Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
Lauren, Tampa
18 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
SPREADING THE WORD... Dan has been the face of Ben Franklin plumbing for me, my go-to guy for any and all plumbing issues. Not my first vendor by any means, but Dan was a straight shooter, knowledgable, and was humble and passionate in getting my house plumbing issues fixed. I have found my relationships to be based largely on individual workmanship rather than company reputation, so I always request Dan when I need anything from Ben Franklin, but I have had other Ben Franklin guys out and they have been equally competent and personable. I read some of the reviews regarding cost... you get what you pay for. I learned my lesson with my electrician. I find it better to pay a bit more, get it right the first time, and have the work done by quality guys that guarantee their work.
I knew I had a freon leak and had to replace my ac, but I never expected to have it done in 6 hours from start to finish. A tech came out to check on the freon, told me they could not, by law, add any. We talked about alternatives and I said my son was coming in from out of town in two days, and I didn’t want ac installation going on while he was visiting. Mark, the tech, told me they could install it the same day he was here. And they did. We actually got cold last night! It was wonderful. I highly recommend Scott’s One Hour Air to anyone needing any type of ac work. They are quick, courteous, and stand behind their work 100%.
Christian, Tampa FL
Dottie, Winter Haven FL
Always On Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!
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SOCIAL Vist Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing on Facebook for Helpful Tips and Advice
Scott’s One Hour Air Conditioning and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing on Facebook
PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
19
PROTIP
WHICH WATER HEATER
Is Best For You?
by Clair Cameron
Gone are the days where all homes have a conventional gas water heater. For all water heating needs, there are now a variety of options for you to choose from. But before you choose a new water heater, take a look at some of the options that are available. Tankless Water Heaters
you like. However, those assumptions are incorrect. Tankless heaters use state-ofthe-art technology to heat your water to an optimal lever very quickly, and they will continue heating until you turn your tap off. There is some delay before the water is heated, but the amount of water wasted is typically less than a gallon. Over the years, the efficiency of tankless heaters has improved greatly.
Conventional hot water heaters run on gas. The gas heats a storage tank full of water, which is then pumped where it’s needed. A tankless water heater will only heat water on demand— there is no tank or water storage system. Meaning, when you turn on your tap for hot water, that’s when the system begins heating, and it shuts off as soon as it’s done being used.
Overall, tankless hot water heaters (also called on-demand water heaters) are designed to save you money on energy bills. Since there is no tank being constantly filled and heated up, there’s no wasted energy. A tankless system does not use energy until you tell it to, and it doesn’t continue to burn energy throughout the day, since there’s no tank that cools off. They also don’t require a ton of power to operate, meaning that a system will eventually pay for itself in terms of money saved on utility bills.
T
hese come in a several varieties. Some units are small, designed to work in part of a home or to be used in an outdoor extension, like a pool-house. Other tankless heaters are whole-house systems, powerful enough to provide hot water for your entire home and replace your old hot water tank forever.
You may be thinking that it takes a while for the water to heat up, or that the water coming out of your tap won’t be as hot as 20 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
BenFranklinFlorida.com
Tankless systems can last for decades, and are typically easy to repair. Smaller units can even be mounted on walls, making them perfect for apartments or trailers. Early versions were not recommended for very large homes, but modern systems come in a variety of sizes and can heat just about anything. In other words, it’s a near guarantee that there’s a tankless water heating system out there that will fit your needs.
GET UP TO CALL TODAY
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters use electricity to heat a water tank. Unlike gas systems, they require very little upkeep and are relatively cheap to install. They can be placed anywhere in the home, and smaller tanks can even be placed under sinks. Newer models are also very efficient in terms of their power usage. The only drawback is that they take longer to heat the tank than a conventional gas water heater. They do not recover quickly when the hot water tank cools off or is emptied, and unlike tankless systems, electric water heaters don’t heat water on demand. Still, because they are convenient and easy to maintain, many consumers discover that an electric water heater is ideal for their home, especially if they don’t tend to use a lot of hot water.
$
Gas Water Heaters
Solar Heaters
They also require a significant amount of attention—pilot lights can go out, and gas units don’t generally last as long as their electric counterparts. Still, they heat water relatively quickly and, depending on where you live, they may be cheaper to run than an electric tank-based system.
In either case, the result is energy-efficient hot water that doesn’t release CO2 into the atmosphere. The downside of a solar water heater is that it cannot be your only source for hot water, since it’s so dependent upon the weather outside. The upfront cost can also be steep, but you will eventually recoup the loss in energy savings, depending upon where you live and how much hot water you tend to use.
This is the classic American staple for water heating. They use gas to heat a water tank and, while their energy efficiency has improved, the basic technology hasn’t changed in decades. The advantage of gas water heaters is that they heat water relatively quick and are fairly cheap to operate, since they don’t burn a ton of gas. However, since they are reheating a tank of water every time it cools down or is used up, they consume more energy than a tankless water heating system. This means more energy burned in the long run.
500
Another energy-saving alternative to consider is a solar-powered water heater. These come in several varieties. In either case, solar units begin with a solar collector, which collects the heat of the sun and converts it into useable energy. The hot water tank is either attached to the collector directly, or water moves through tubes which are heated by the collector. Sometimes heating the water involves electric pumps, other times convection and gravity do all of the work.
On the trade-In Of Your Old Water Heater We Offer: Tankless • Hybrid • Solar • Standard *FREE ESTIMATE ON WATER HEATER New Heater determines trade value. Call for details. Not Valid with any other offer. Must use at time of service. Expires 12/31/2017
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21
GOODEATS
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350ยบF. Line a 9 x 13-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray; set aside. 2. Pour into prepared pan set aside.
For the peanut butter cheesecake layer:
To the mixing bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the butter, cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla, and salt and mix on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes, stopping one or two times to scrape sides of bowl.
Add peanut butter and beat for two minutes more or until peanut butter is incorporated and the mixture has fluffed.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layered Brownies Brownies
Allow brownies to cool at room temperature for at least one hour then place the pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours to chill brownies.
1 Package Chewy Fudge Brownie Mix ( Or ) Your Own Recipe. Prepare brownie mix according to package. Only substitute strong coffee for water and also add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer 8 ounces of cream cheese softened 1/2 cup of sugar 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon of salt 1/4 cup(1/2 stick) butter 1 Large egg 1 cup of crunchy peanut butter
Chocolate Glaze 1/2 cup whipping cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips
22 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY โ ข Resource Guide
Pour this mixture over the brownie layer, smoothing it lightly with a spatula, if necessary. Bake for 38 to 43 minutes, or until top is golden and center is set but a bit loose, since it will firm as it cools.
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For the Chocolate Glaze:
In a small saucepan, bring whipping cream and vanilla just to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat. Add milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips; do not stir. Let stand for 5 minutes; stir until smooth.
Spread Chocolate Glaze over the top of the cooled brownies. Let stand until set. Use the foil to lift the uncut brownies out of the pan.
Cut and enjoy! STORE BROWNIES IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER IN THE REFRIGERATOR FOR UP TO ONE WEEK, OR IN THE FREEZER FOR UP TO 2 MONTHS
Dale Trusts... “I believe a real evaluation from a veteran consumer investigator can make a real difference, not only for savvy consumers but for a great company as well. In my analysis, no company does it right, as well or more often than One Hour Air.” -Dale on Scott’s One Hour
“Plumbing problems NEVER work around your schedule. When you need relief, you need it now! Ben Franklin Plumbing works on your time, so much so, their motto is: “If there’s any delay, it’s you we pay!™ My investigative review finds Ben Franklin Plumbing stands behind this pledge, 24/7 and with their Straight Forward Pricing, with my analysis, you can’t lose!” -Dale on Benjamin Franklin
“I’ve Done The Research!”
PROTIP
Know the Symptoms: Failing Pipes
by Maxine Reneé
24 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
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For more information, or to schedule a leak/pipe evaluation call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing at 813-321-2606.
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Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Not Valid with any other offer. Expires 12/31/2016
ON WHOLE HOUSE RE-PIPE
Not Valid with any other offer. Must use at time of service. Expires 12/31/2017
Turn to the professionals at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing to tackle the problem. They have the experience, knowledge, skills and tools to address the pipe repair or replacement and resolve it quickly, with a commitment to leaving your home in better shape than when they started the job.
ON WHOLE HOUSE RE-PIPE
“If you’ve experienced uneven water flow in different faucets in your home, or if you’ve noticed any type of corrosion around the pipes, call us,” said Mario Martinez, Operations Manager at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. “Don’t wait for that inevitable leak. We’ll check all of the pipes, marking those that need to be replaced. We’ll also evaluate the benefits of replacement in the original location of the pipe. Or, if they are under a slab or in a location that would require extensive damage to walls or ceilings, we may suggest rerouting the pipes, either through the ceiling or along the outside of the house.”
SAVE 249 FREE ESTIMATE
T
he water pipes that supply most central Florida homes, whether galvanized or copper, have about a 50-year life span, and after about ten years they can begin to become compromised. If you’re noticing that joints are turning colors or are encrusted with mineral deposits, you probably have a pipe that’s about to fail.
Replacing plumbing for an entire house is an arduous job, as much of the work needs to be done in a hot, dusty and insulation-filled attic. The Benjamin Franklin Plumbing team is experienced with this type of work, and will find creative ways to do as little damage as possible to drywall and flooring. If your home has a center island in the kitchen, for example, they’ll snake the pipes through the wall and under the floor rather than tearing out the tiles and cabinetry. And they’ll divide the job into sections, so you still have access to water in part of your house while the other parts are being re-plumbed.
$
Another serious problem is pinhole leaks in the copper pipes – you may hear something that sounds somewhat like a toilet running quietly. If you’ve heard that sound once and it was discovered as a pinhole leak, you’ll know immediately that there is a new leak when you hear it again. Check your meter. If the dial is spinning while no water appliance is in use, one or more pinhole leaks are probably the cause. These leaks can happen anywhere along the supply line piping, and usually are under flooring; in slabs; in the foundation; or in walls. Simply repairing one leak does not guarantee there won’t be more. In fact, the opposite is true. If you see or find one, it’s almost guaranteed that there are more to follow. Not only are those pipes going to continue to leak, causing untold damage to your home, but your water bills will be staggering.
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PROTIP
Consider This When Choosing a Water Purification System By Maxine Renée
Shopping for a water softener or conditioner can be a daunting task to the untrained consumer. There are so many variables that can determine what the correct system is for your family’s needs.
W
ater conditioning type; volume of water used; size of plumbing; lifestyle habits; and so on. Before you decide which water softener is right for you, here are some things to consider when shopping for your waterimprovement system.
Softener or Conditioner?: These
terms are many times used interchangeably (which isn’t accurate). A water softener simply does what its name implies: It removes
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hardness from the water. A water conditioner does a bit more – it softens the water, but may also remove harmful chemicals. In Florida, most homes need more than a simple water softener, since water in the state is loaded with hard minerals and unwanted contaminants.
Salt vs. Salt Free: This is
really a “smoke and mirrors” choice. Water is softened by an ion exchange process. It exchanges the hard minerals (dissolved rock) for a softer mineral: sodium. Salt is a combination of Sodium (NA) and Chloride(CL). The softener only uses the NA
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portion of the NACL, and rinses the CL away. In other words, a very small amount of sodium is added to the water. Even those on lowsodium or salt restricted diets will generally not have an issue with softeners that use sodium.
strict guidelines for their sales representatives. Some of these tests are easily manipulated and can be represented as something they are not. But knowing the makeup of your water is generally a good idea before you choose any water purification system.
Get a Water Test: A
Pre-Built Big Box Store Softeners vs Specialized Dealer: Softeners you find in
lab is the best option for determining the chemistry of your water. However, lab tests can be expensive. Many water conditioning companies offer in-home testing. That being said, make sure that the company you have testing your water in-home is one that has
the “big box” stores are made from lower quality materials, which age and become brittle. If your water is especially hard, cheaper water conditioning systems may break down in only a few short years.
The pre-built, store-bought softeners do not use the top quality resins, and the materials the resin tanks are made of are not of the same quality you’d receive from a name brand. Most of the parts from large megastores are available from limited sources, and they tend to be expensive. The pre-built softeners use “cabinet (all-in-one) designs,” and are much harder to repair when something goes wrong, since parts are more difficult to come by. Even routine cleaning can be a hassle, since the units were assembled in one piece and often don’t follow the designs of their higherquality companions. So, even if the initial price tag seems less expensive, a pre-built water conditioner may end up costing you a lot more, since they are generally of lower quality. The interesting thing is, sometimes a waterconditioning specialist may have a system of comparable price, yet of better quality—
compare all the details before you buy anything, and make sure you’re getting a system that fits your budget and will also last.
Proper Sizing: You should only purchase a properlysized softener for your home’s plumbing. ‘Properly sized’ is not the same as hardness capacity. An experienced dealer should be able to customize a system to fit your needs.
Warranty: Get all the
warrant details before you buy, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. How long does this warranty last? What does it cover? Does it include parts and labor? Know all the details before you buy any system. Keeping the above in mind, you’re now on your way to being prepared to make an informed purchase. Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Make sure you fully understand what you’re buying before you make any large investment.
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PROTIP
LET’S TALK DRAIN CLOGS by Nate Freyburger
D
rain clogs can strike without warning. One morning you’re brushing your teeth, and the next second you notice the water isn’t going down like it’s supposed to. You probably don’t even think about plumbing maintenance until something like this happens to you, and if that drain clog is bad enough, calling a plumber to come out and un-clog it could be timeconsuming and expensive. Instead of waiting for drain clogs to happen, here are some tips you can follow to help keep things flowing smoothly. • In general, avoid pouring coffee grounds, grease, or any other food down the sink. Before putting dishes in the sink, wipe them down to remove any excess food or oils.
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• After dinner or after doing dishes, run hot water for a few minutes to prevent the accumulation of grease. Once a week, pour baking soda down the drain with vinegar. This will help reduce buildup even further and break up any small clogs. • For bathtubs and sinks, check the stoppers every couple of months. Check the drain and the stopper for hair and other build up, and clean out anything you see. Then fill up the bathtub or sink and let the water pressure flush out the drain. • Don’t neglect regular maintenance. Having all of your plumbing inspected annually by a professional is a great way to spot any potentially damaged or clogged pipes. It also could end up saving you money in the long run. In the event some major, preventable problem occurs, a repair is going to cost you more.
If your drain becomes clogged despite preventative measures, there are steps you can take to try to clean the clog on your own before you call in a plumber. First, baking soda and vinegar may be all you need to break up a clog. But if that doesn’t work, avoid chemical-based cleaners. Instead, opt to use an enzyme/bacteriabased cleaner. These work by creating colonies of good bacteria that work to break up drain blocks. Just make sure to use these cleaners at night, since water usage can dilute the cleaner and wash away all the helpful bacteria. If all else fails, it’s time to call in a plumber. Just make sure next time you take the above tips into consideration, and maybe you can avoid drain clogs altogether.
SINK CLOGGED?
HAVE GUESTS COMING!
Don’t worry give us a call and we will be there for you. So not matter what time it is we can be there promptly and fix any plumbing needs for you. Don’t settle for less – call us today!
866-930-2751
Trusted Plumbing Experts Since 1989 100% Service Satisfaction Guaranteed
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CLEAR ANY DRAIN FOR $76 Present at time of service. Not valid with any offer. Call for details Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm. One time use.
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WARRANTIES
UNDERSTANDING
WARRANTIES Y ou may have an existing warranty on your air conditioning system. When you purchased your new air conditioning system it came with a manufacturer’s warranty. You should have received a copy of this warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty paperwork contains the manufacturer’s terms and conditions for your warranty. If you cannot find your paperwork, please do not hesitate to call our customer service department and they will be happy to assist you.
and within 30 days of the closing. Manufacturers are now requiring the use of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. At the moment there are thousands of possible OEM parts for any of the multiple manufacturers, which make using and obtaining OEM parts a difficult situation. The effect is that we will no longer be able to use generic truck stock parts. Although these changes are difficult, we make it our priority to bring you comfort as quickly as possible.
Manufacturers are beginning to enforce with greater regularity the terms and conditions within your paperwork. These changes may affect you.
Manufacturers now require yearly maintenance by an authorized dealer/servicer in order to keep a warranty in good standing. As a valued customer, we ask that if you are not currently having maintenance done on your equipment at least once a year that you contact us or an authorized dealer/servicer in
Most manufacturers allow you to transfer warranties to the new owner upon the sale of your property for a small fee 30 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
BenFranklinFlorida.com
your area as soon as possible. Scott’s One Hour Air now has dual protection plans with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing that can be purchased to fulfill the requirement to keep a warranty in effect and take care of all of your plumbing maintenance. See pages 43-45 for all the details on our protection plans. Again, thank you for choosing Scott’s One Hour Air and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. We are honored to serve you. Please call our Customer Service Department if you have any questions or if you need to schedule maintenance. We have several protection plans and our customer service representatives would be happy to explain them to you and help you choose which plan best fits your needs.
FINANCINGOPTIONS
Put your mind at ease... Easy Pay Financing Options It is important to us that we provide the best financing available to our customers. Since we are the largest home services provider in North America we have access to many different financing options that will suit almost every ones needs. We have everything such as: ► Low monthly payments with as low as 6.90% APR ► Deferred Interest From 6-18 Months ► 0% APR Options Available
IF WE CANNOT GET YOU FINANCED THEN NOBODY CAN! Put your mind at ease with One Hour Air Conditioning & Benjamin Franklin Plumbing’s easy pay options. (Financing options may change at any time.)
For More Information Call
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PROTECTIONPLANS Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, saving you money on utility bills. Potential problems can be prevented or corrected early. Additionally, proper servicing extends the life of your heating and air conditioning system. Plus, regular maintenance keeps your manufacturer’s warranty in force. Other benefits include fewer repairs and improved capacity from your system. Service agreements are transferable.
What Are
by Nate Freyburger
PROTECTION PLANS
W
& Why Do We Need Them?
hether you’re installing a new air conditioning system or you’re having an old system repaired, chances are there is a protection plan that would benefit you. These agreements are designed to save consumers money on routine maintenance, while also protecting them from any potential problems. But before you jump into buying one, make sure you find the option that would benefit you the most. Protection plans are held between you and an air conditioning service provider, wherein you prepay for maintenance at a discounted rate and receive other additional benefits. They cover routine cleanings and check-ups, and they may help subsidize the cost of massive 32 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
emergency repairs or offer other savings. Think of them as a peace of mind policy for your system. One overlooked advantage of a protection plan is that it assures your air conditioning system will get the annual service inspection it needs. These annual tune-ups are important, since they allow a professional to spot any potential problems with your system early, before they spiral into something more expensive. Further, an annual maintenance appointment will help to keep your system clean and running efficiently, which could save you money on energy bills. Many people overlook their air conditioner, ignoring its needs until there’s a
BenFranklinFlorida.com
serious problem. Similar to how your car requires an oil change in order to keep it running, your air conditioner needs to be regularly serviced in order to prevent catastrophic issues. If something major goes wrong with your system because you have been neglecting to maintain it, a repair may end up costing you thousands of dollars. Just remember that some protection plans may require regular maintenance. That’s one of the reasons why protection plans exist – to help mitigate the cost associated with regular air conditioning service calls. Keep in mind that a protection plan is far cheaper than a major system problem caused by a lack of upkeep – having your system routinely serviced could save you big down the line.
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THETEAM
Mario Martinez Operations Manager Mario has dedicated eleven years to the company. He enjoys boating and spending time with his family.
Melissa Fair Office Manager
With a varied background that includes work in dairy production and the petroleum industry, Melissa joined Scott’s in 2013. Outside of work, she’s an artist with a love for Boston Terriers, neurology and the writing of
Oliver Sachs.
Scott Vigue President The owner and founder of Scott’s One Hour, Scott been in the HVAC and plumbing business for over twenty years. When he isn’t working, he’s likely boating, golfing, or spending time with his family.
34 PLUMBING & AIR TODAY • Resource Guide
Alysha Vigue
Eric Juarez
Marketing Manager The Daughter of Scott’s owner and founder, Scott Vigue, Alysha now serves as the company’s marketing manager. She’s an animal lover and an amateur chef.
Installations Manager Eric loves spending time with his family and friends. He has been with the company for ten years.
Kenny Newman
Jeff Kaloostian, ll
General Manager Kenny has served the industry since 1997 and likes to spend quality time with family and friends. In his spare time he enjoys working with truck audio.
Training Manager
Kesha Freeny
Alyssa Pries
Accounting Manager Kesha enjoys volunteering for her church outside of work and has been with the company for two years and three months as of March 2013.
Warehouse Manager Alyssa loves keeping pets and fishing on her spare time (though she doesn’t typically keep the fish as pets). She’s been with Scott’s for six years.
Scott Wood
Larry Nysted
Service Manager Ten years in the HVAC industry have made Scott Wood a serious professional. He loves his work, but he also loves spending time at the beach and enjoying the company of his family.
Dream Manager Larry has been with Scott’s since 1990. He works as an insurance agent and consultant; his job is to help Scott’s employees accomplish the goals they’ve set for themselves and their families.
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Jeff is a first generation HVAC technician who has worked in the industry for over a decade. He’s been with Scott’s for seven years. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his kids and studying the Bible.
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