The Very First Labor Day Celebration

August 29th, 2014

Labor Day as a federal holiday, held on the first Monday of September, has been with us now for 120 years. President Grover Cleveland signed the law that made Labor Day a national holiday in 1894. Ever since then, the three-day weekend has provided people in the U.S. with the opportunity for vacations, time with their families, shopping trips, and a general celebration of the conclusion of summer and the beginning of fall.

However, there were twelve years of Labor Day observations in the U.S. before it became an official holiday. The first Labor Day celebration took place in 1882 in New York City on September 5. According to the accounts from the time, it had a rough start and almost didn’t happen.

The main event planned for that first Labor Day was a parade along Broadway that was to start at City Hall. However, the parade ran into a bit of a snag early on. The marchers started to line up for the procession around 9 a.m., with a police escort to make sure the event went peacefully. However, the problem of the day wasn’t rowdy members of the parade—it was that nobody had remembered to bring a band!

With people ready to march, but no music to march to, it started to look like no parade would happen at all, and the first Labor Day would have ended up a failure. But just in time, Matthew Maguire of the Central Labor Union—one of the two men who first proposed the celebration—ran across the City Hall lawn to the Grand Marshal of the parade, William McCabe, to inform him that 200 men from the Jeweler’s Union of Newark were crossing the ferry to Manhattan… and they had a band!

At 10 a.m., only an hour late, the band from Newark walked down Broadway playing a number from a popular Gilbert and Sullivan opera. They passed McCabe and the other 700 marchers, who then fell in line behind them. Soon, the spectators joined in, and an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 people marched through Lower Manhattan.

According to the New York Times, “The windows and roofs and even the lamp posts and awning frames were occupied by persons anxious to get a good view of the first parade in New York of workingmen of all trades united in one organization.”

The parade concluded two hours later when the marchers reached Reservoir Park. But the party was only getting started. Until 9 p.m., some 25,000 people celebrated with picnics and speeches and beer kegs. It was an enormous success, and all thanks to the speedy arrival of jewelers carrying band instruments.

If those musicians from Newark hadn’t shown up, perhaps we wouldn’t have the holiday opportunity that we now have every year. However you celebrate your Labor Day, our family at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning wishes your family a happy end of summer.

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3 Common Problems with the Condenser Unit

August 22nd, 2014

Recurrent repair needs are a strong sign that it may be time to consider a new air conditioning installation. Sometimes various problems can occur, or you may deal with one part of your system breaking over and over again. Today we’re going to discuss common problems with your condenser unit and how they can affect your system. Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning has trained experts for both repair and installation, so if it’s time to repair or replace, call the technicians you can trust.

What Is the Condenser Unit?

The condenser unit resides in the outdoor cabinet of your air conditioning system. The condenser is comprised of the condenser coils and condenser fan. The main job of the condenser unit is to release the heat from the refrigerant after it’s pressurized in the compressor. The condenser is the middle part of the refrigerant cycle, and when there are problems with the condenser, it can cause system-wide imbalances.

Common Problems with Condenser Unit

There are several common problems that can occur with condenser units:

Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerant passes through the narrow tubing of the condenser coils, releasing heat as it makes its way toward the indoor evaporator coils. Leaks can develop in the coils, throwing off the delicate balance of the refrigerant. The refrigerant facilitates the transfer of heat in your system, so if the level is reduced due to a leak, the entire heat release/cooling process can malfunction. Problems that can occur from low refrigerant are warm air blowing, icing and compressor issues. Leaks need to be repaired in order to restore proper functioning.

Dirty Coils

It is natural for the condenser coils to attract dust and dirt. However, if the dust and dirt aren’t cleaned from the coils at least once a year, these particles can develop a layer that will act as insulation on the coils. This inhibits the heat release of the refrigerant, and can create problems with the entire cooling process in your system.

Condenser Fan Issues

The fan on your outside unit is known as the condenser fan. This fan helps remove the heat released from the condenser coils and blows it outside; it also helps with airflow. Different problems can emerge with a fan, such as a worn fan belt, motor issues and problems with wiring. All can affect how a fan operates, which can have a direct effect on the heat release process.

If you see recurring problems with your condenser unit, it may be time to consider a new air conditioning system. Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today and schedule an air conditioning installation in Fresno with one of our installation experts.

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Hot Dog Dinner at Madera Fair – 2014

August 19th, 2014

Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning along with Randy and Sheryl Berry are hosting the Annual Hot Dog dinner on September 2nd from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. We will be hosting dinner for all the 4H and FFA Exhibitors and their families for the Madera District Fair. The 4H and FFA kids arrive a few days before the Fair to prepare to show their livestock animals. This is an annual tradition in Madera that everyone at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning looks forward to attending. We cook over 500 hot dog dinners complete with drinks and all the fixings’. It is a great way for us to get out in the community and support our local hardworking kids and the agricultural community.

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How Do Heat Pumps Cool?

August 15th, 2014

Although the word “heat” is included in the term “heat pump,” this high-performance system does more than keep people warm. While these systems can move heat into a home, they can also move heat outside, allowing cool air to blow into a house through the vents. Heat pumps are actually very effective cooling systems because they work exactly like standard air conditioners, but with one key difference: the reversing valve that allows for dual functions.

Much like any other air conditioning system, a heat pump cools a home using a chemical blend called refrigerant. The system is only called a heat pump because it pumps heat into your home during the heating season and pumps heat out of your home in the cooling season. Refrigerant is responsible for the thermodynamic process that allows for this heat exchange to occur.

When you turn on your heat pump during the cooling season, refrigerant first leaves the compressor as a high-pressure gas and makes its way to the condenser. Here, heat releases into the outdoor air during the condensation process that changes the refrigerant into a liquid. The expansion valve allows the pressure of the liquid to drop. Finally, it flows to the evaporator coil, where the liquid refrigerant evaporates into a gas and absorbs heat in the process. An indoor fan then blows cool air into your home.

The reversing valve is the part that differentiates the heat pump from a standard central air conditioner. When you switch the thermostat to heating mode, refrigerant actually flows in the opposite direction, a process unavailable with most central air conditioning systems. When the thermostat engages the reversing valve, refrigerant flows in the opposite direction. When this happens, refrigerant pulls heat from the outside air and moves the heat indoors.

Heat pumps can be very efficient systems for both heating and cooling. Many heat pumps have high SEERs (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios), and a high HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). These rating systems give an indication of a system’s average energy use, so you can save money selecting a more efficient system. If you want help selecting energy-efficient heat pumps in Madera, call the experts at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today!

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It’s Right in Our Name: We Fabricate Sheet Metal

August 8th, 2014

The majority of our customers come to us for our quality work installing, repairing, and maintaining air conditioners, heaters, and other indoor comfort systems. But these customers are often confused at the name of our company and the “sheet metal” part. The truth is that Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning started out exclusively in the sheet metal business way back in 1952. This is not completely unheard of in the air conditioning world: developing the sheet metal used for ventilation construction often leads to working with the air conditioners that hook up to them.

Sheet metal fabrication is still an important part of our business, and we currently handle the work in a Madera, CA sheet metal fabrication building that covers 24,000 square feet. The technology we use has advanced tremendously since the 1950s, and our cutting-edge computer-controlled tools allow us to produce a high volume of unique products. We handle sheet metal fabrication for different industries and purposes: agricultural products such as irrigation systems and processing ventilation systems; customized roofing to fit any kind of space; hoods for kitchen ranges; and spiral ductwork that has recently gained popularity in both homes and businesses. We also manufacture the sheet metal we use in our new construction installations for heating and air conditioning.

One of the key tools in our sheet metal fabrication building is a computer automated plasma cutting table. We can program into the computer the different shapes and sizes of the pieces we need cut for a project. The plasma table then automatically configures them to make the maximum use of the material and cuts the shape using a plasma torch. A plasma torch is device that blasts out an inert gas through a nozzle at high speed and then changes it into plasma with an electric arc; the resulting plasma can move through metal rapidly for smooth cutting. We also use the plasma table to cut out standardized pieces, such as boots, that we use in new construction.

If you contact us for installation of a heating system, air conditioning, or ductwork, we will take care of all the necessary fabrication for the job. But you can also contact us when your need customized sheet metal in Madera, CA for a specific project. Our years of experience and up-to-date technology make us one of your best resources for sheet metal fabrication in the Central Valley.

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Air Conditioning Upgrades That Help with Energy Efficiency

July 31st, 2014

Achieving better energy efficiency in your home is one of the best ways to alleviate high utility bills and reduce the strain on your household appliances. Since a large amount of your electrical budget during the summer goes toward operating your air conditioning system, it is important to focus on ways that you can maximize its efficiency.

One way to increase the energy efficiency of your air conditioning is to invest in upgrades that will make the system draw less power but without sacrificing your comfort.

Here are a few suggestions from Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning for upgrades that can lower the energy your air conditioner uses while working its best to keep you cool.

An Upgraded Thermostat

Thermostats have a larger effect on AC efficiency than you probably realize. Older manual thermostat models are often imprecise and inaccurate, that means you will often set them to energy-draining temperatures without realizing it. The current crop of digital programmable thermostats not only increase precision, but they allow you to control the AC when you are not at home. You no longer have to waste power running the air conditioner all day so you can come home in the afternoon to a cool house: instead, you program the AC to turn on a half-hour before you come back.

A Replacement Condensing Unit

If your AC seems to be losing more and more efficiency with the years, you can have the outdoor condensing unit replaced with a new one, instead of replacing the entire air conditioning system. The new condenser will restore the efficiency of the system, and may even make it better than before.

Install a Zone Control System

This upgrade is done to your ventilation system. Technicians fit dampers inside the ductwork that control the flow of air to different parts (“zones”) of the house, and then connect the dampers to individual thermostats. This allows you to shut off cooling to parts of the house that do not require it, such as empty guest rooms. With zone control, you no longer have to expend power cooling down the whole home when only a few locations need it.

Call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning and talk to one of our NATE-certified and EPA-certified technicians for more ideas on how you can increase the energy savings from your AC. We have served Fresno with air conditioning services since 1952, and we can help you get the most from cooling system.

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Can I Do Maintenance During the Summer?

July 25th, 2014

Many homeowners seek air conditioning maintenance at some time around the beginning of spring. Air conditioning maintenance is a valuable service that can improve the performance, efficiency and overall well-being of your air conditioning system. This makes spring seem like the ideal time to schedule service as you can protect your AC for the rest of the cooling season.

However, summer can also be the perfect time to call for air conditioning maintenance. In the summertime in Fresno, your air conditioner is at a high risk of sudden failure, which may be prevented with a maintenance visit. There’s still plenty of time left in the season, so here are a few of the reasons you should schedule air conditioning maintenance today!

Reduce the Chances of Future Repairs

During the summer, your air conditioner runs for long periods of time and works very hard to keep you cool. This may mean, however, that your system begins to develop wear and tear which may seriously damage your system. If your air conditioner receives regular maintenance, you may be able to catch repair needs early on to prevent further damage to your system. During maintenance, a technician performs a full inspection of your AC. If any damaged part of your air conditioning system threatens its well-being, your technician will let you know so that you can schedule repairs early on.

Improve Performance

Air conditioning maintenance also improves the performance of your air conditioner. Low refrigerant levels, dirty parts, or a frozen evaporator coil may all affect the cooling ability of your air conditioner. With maintenance, a technician checks refrigerant levels and cleans the coils so that your AC will continue to cool your home as it should.

Restore Efficiency

When your AC has to work harder due to dirt and debris, a frozen coil, low refrigerant levels, or damage to the system, efficiency often suffers. Air conditioners that receive regular maintenance often maintain a high percentage of efficiency over time, so your bills are likely to be lower than they were before maintenance.

To schedule certified maintenance for your air conditioning in Fresno, call Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning today!

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What Do Strange Noises from My Water Heater Mean?

July 18th, 2014

Strange noises coming from any powered appliance is often a sign of trouble, and your water heater is no exception. When an unexpected sound starts to interrupt the standard operation of a water heater, you should call for professional technicians to look into the issue and see what needs to be done. Ignoring the problem puts you at risk of losing your hot water supply when the water heater breaks down.

Here are some of the more common noises that you may hear from a malfunctioning water heater. Please don’t try to do any close diagnosis yourself: call up a water heater repair service and describe the situation, and then let the professional technicians handle it from there.

Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning is on call 7 days a week to handle repairs for water heaters in Fresno. You can put your trust in our more than 60 years of quality service to the Central Valley.

Some Water Heater Warning Noises and What They May Mean

  • Popping and banging sounds: Although these noises can be startling, they may simply indicate that you have the water pressure set too high. If that’s not the case, then the high pressure is coming from another source, such as the water overheating, and you will need to call for repairs from a technician.
  • Rumbling: This often indicates that you have excessive levels of sediment at the bottom of the tank. Sediment gathers from particles in the incoming water (particularly if you have hard water), and unless the tank is regularly flushed, the sediment layer will decrease the volume in the tank and create that rumbling sound. Call for technicians to flush out the tank, which should take care of the problem. Another possibility is that a broken dip tube is causing the incoming cold water to mix with the hot water at the top of the tank. Technicians can replace the broken dip tube.
  • Hissing and whistling: These are worrisome sounds, and for good reason: they indicate extreme high water pressure in the heater that could pose a danger. Call for a repair person immediately.
  • Sound of constantly running water: This is often an issue with the pressure relief valve, which is designed to prevent spikes in water pressure by occasionally leaking out water. But if the relief valve breaks, it will start leaking water regularly and create this sound of constant running water. You will need professionals to replace the valve.

Sometimes, an odd sound from a water heater is normal, but you do not want to take any chances. Always call for professional repairs if you notice strange behavior from your water heater. At Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning, we offer full service for water heaters in Fresno, CA that includes repairs, installation, and maintenance, and we can handle whatever ails your water heater.

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How to Save Money on Air Conditioning During a Heat Wave

July 11th, 2014

When the summer heat strikes in Fresno, it can slam down on us like an anvil. You need a sturdy and reliable air conditioning system to help you through the long heat. And just as important, you need to have a reliable HVAC service company to help with maintenance and repairs to make sure your AC keeps you cool all the way through the summer.

Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning has served the Central Valley since 1952, we have the experience necessary to help you get the most efficient and effective cooling from your air conditioning system.

Of course, keeping the air conditioner working during the heaviest heat can be costly. However, there are ways to keep those costs under control; here are some tips for how to save money during the summer heat waves.

Don’t overwork the AC

It’s tempting to pull the thermostat down to its lowest possible setting when the heat soars. However, this is not only expensive (it keeps the compressor running almost constantly) but it will put tremendous stress on the components that risks a breakdown. You should not set your thermostat lower than 72°F, which is a comfortable temperature that will keep your bills in check and your AC from overworking.

Shut off all non-essential heat-producing appliances

One of the best ways to reduce air conditioning use during heat waves is to lower the amount of heat your air conditioner must combat. If you shut off appliances that generate extra heat during the day time, you can often reduce your air conditioner use by 10% or more. Avoid cooking during the day with stoves and ovens. Do not use indoor laundry facilities. If possible, avoid taking daytime showers, which produce high levels of moisture that makes the heat feel worse.

Schedule maintenance for your air conditioning

This is planning ahead: you should always have a maintenance visit from an HVAC technician once a year to make sure that your air conditioning system is working at its best and provide necessary adjustments, tunings, and cleanings. This will not only make sure that your air conditioner is not costing you extra money to run, but it will also catch potential repair issues that might turn into major repair problems during the stresses of a heat wave. Maintenance is the best preparation you can have for a long summer.

Get started saving money and preparing for the heaviest heat the summer can offer with a call to Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Sign up for our Ultimate Service Agreement, which includes two seasonal tune-ups for your air conditioner and your heater from NATE-certified technicians, plus preferred customer states and discounts on repairs and upgrades. We are here to help you save money on air conditioning in Fresno, CA all year long.

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What Are My Water Heater Options?

July 8th, 2014
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Water heater replacement job in Fresno

Even though it is summer and our daytime temperatures are around 100 degrees, running out of hot water because of a water heater malfunction is still something no one wants to deal with. If you’ve had to do a lot of recent repairs on your water heater just to keep it operating, it may be time to consider the purchase of a new one. The good news is that there are several options available for homeowners when it comes to purchasing new water heaters in Fresno, so replacing an old water heater may actually be better for your home. And remember: it’s best to have a professional company like Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning install your water heater to ensure that it goes in correctly.

Types of Water Heater Upgrades Available

There are several types of water heaters currently on the market:

Conventional Water Heaters

Conventional water heaters have been the norm for many years, and still remain a very popular choice among homeowners. Conventional water heaters are cylindrical-shaped storage tanks that heat and hold water for usage in your home. These types of water heaters come in different capacity sizes to accommodate a range of properties, holding anywhere from 20 to 80 gallons of water at a time. Different fuel types can heat the water, including electricity, natural gas and oil. While great strides have been made to increase energy efficiency with this type of water heater, it still may not be as energy efficient as others on the market, and the average lifespan is 10 to 12 years.

Tankless water heater

Upgraded to a tankless water heater

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters have become very popular over the last few years, and for some very good reasons. One of the main appeals of tankless water heaters is that they heat water on demand; this means there is an endless supply of hot water for your property. Secondly, as the name indicates, there is no need for a storage tank to hold the hot water. With a tankless system, the hot water is heated directly when the hot water tap is turned on; the cold water is instantly heated by a heating element that uses either natural gas or electricity. This feature makes tankless hot water heaters very energy efficient.

One of the main drawbacks to tankless water heaters is that the flow rate of the water is typically lower than that of a conventional water heater. A second drawback can be the initial cost, but on average, tankless water heaters last longer than conventional ones and they can save money on a monthly basis through utility bills.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump technology can be used for a wide range of household appliances, which is one of the reasons we like them so much here at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Using the same type of process for heating and cooling your home, a heat pump water heater removes the heat from around its space to heat the water in your home. Storage tanks are used with this system, and can store up to 50 gallons of heated water. Heat pump water heaters are recommended for geographic areas that don’t get colder than 40 degrees, and they require at least 1,000 cubic feet of surrounding air space, (approximately a 10-foot x 10-foot x 10-foot room) for installation.

Is it Time for a New Water Heater? Call Us Today!

Since 1952, Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning has been helping customers with their water heaters in Fresno. If it’s time for a new water heater in your home, call the people you can trust: Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.

 

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