Readers answer the question: "With the skilled labor shortage, are HVAC systems destined to become plug-and-play appliances?"

While often unheralded, service dispatch is undoubtedly a key cog in a successful contracting business. With the proper people and procedures in place, dispatch can become a vital part of running an efficient, profitable service department.

Take a look around your office right now. Notice any glazed eyes or slack expressions? It’s not too late to get your employees fired up and motivated. Create a contest and cultivate some friendly competition or organize a summery-themed potluck. Remember, happy employees create happy customers.

Readers answer the question, "Do your customers generally prefer to purchase HVAC equipment manufactured in America, even if it costs more than equipment manufactured overseas?"

Being the Type-A personalities that they are, retirement is not really in the vocabulary of Jim Abrams and Terry Nicholson. So, shortly after their non-compete agreements from the Clockwork Home Services sales were complete, the duo was at it again.

Whether it’s creating a scholarship, partnering with a local organization, or encouraging students to pursue mechanical trades opportunities; there are no excuses to be made. It’s time to get with the program — a scholarship program.

For the first time in two decades, a new conference and tradeshow is being launched for residential contractors. The group will reinvent the typical trade show experience, extending network opportunities inside the exhibit hall with a unique floor plan and enhanced user and exhibitor experience.

Some manufacturers with foreign names are producing products in the U.S., some companies that were founded in this country are making products overseas, and a big chunk of the industry is doing both. It is the job of the contractor to figure out if this is important to the customer. 

Last month, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published a long-awaited new rule governing enforcement of the residential central and single-package air conditioner energy conservation standards that took effect Jan. 1, 2015. Most notably, the enforcement rule includes new mandatory recordkeeping requirements.

Remarks regarding the “It’s All About the BAS” article, as well as the “More Troubleshooting Tips for Spring Tuneups” and “The Value of Remembering the Basic Cycle” articles.