It is summer. The season has officially begun and it’s time to get out and enjoy the weather. For some this is difficult. Global warming - or was it global cooling? - is allegedly causing some rough weather.

New products are nice, but when it comes to technology, there are only so many functions that users find useful. With the above concept in mind, it could be considered that one of the keys to success as a product or a service provider could simply be to ask, “What do you want from us?”

Heat pump sales are on the rise, and the numbers for the first quarter of 2011 are showing a pattern for increased growth as 2011 progresses. Supported by the numbers recently released by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), this growth could present HVACR contractors with new opportunities.

Here at The NEWS, we could argue that our job is really about asking and answering questions. Once we have the answers, we package them in different media platforms and deliver them for your information and your entertainment.

Over the years, HVACR’s overall approach to heating and cooling has changed. What was once a simple installation of a heating and/or cooling unit is now a complex process that must consider the building envelope and a whole structure approach in order to maintain the energy efficiency many are striving to achieve.

Who knew you could copper mine with nothing more than a truck and a set of heavy duty cutters? The perpetrators that drove away with the old air conditioning unit from a local church last month - that’s who.

Customer education is more important than customer service. Don’t believe it? Ask the contractor who just left a sales call without a signed purchase order. On his way to the truck he scratched his head and asked, “Where did I go wrong?”

I remember the days when gas was $0.96 cents a gallon - and I am only 32. I didn’t start driving until I was 16 years old, so in the past 16 years gas prices have increased around $3.00 dollars or more per gallon.

The earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear crises in Japan have brought stories of tragedy, survival, and hope to light. Many of these stories reflect a vast difference between American and Japanese culture; for example, standing in line.

Of course I am talking about being an HVACR technician. That takes a special set of skills and achievements. Not just anybody can install a zoned system or diagnose a chiller problem. And, not just anybody can be a judge for the Dealer Design competition.