Author: Kevin

Blog Roundup: 5 of our Favorite Bob Jenson Posts

Written by Kevin on March 21, 2019. Posted in HVAC, San Diego. No Comments on Blog Roundup: 5 of our Favorite Bob Jenson Posts

Now that it’s spring, we have some questions for you: Are you dealing with piled-up clutter from messy kids and adults who have been indoors more than usual? Does everything just feel like it needs a good scrubbing down and airing out? There’s a reason spring is associated with cleaning season, a time for renewal and reassessing the inner workings of your household.

Not only that, but spring is the perfect time of year to check your furnace, examine how well your home’s air ventilation and AC is working, and make sure that you’re saving money on your energy bills as we head into the warmer seasons.

In order to help you prepare for springtime, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite Bob Jenson blog posts that’ll keep your home — and health — in top shape this spring.

Spring Cleaning to Reduce Allergens

Springtime isn’t a bright, sunny picnic for everybody — those who suffer from seasonal allergies can have a tough time in the spring with so much pollen in the air. Spring cleaning can also shift a lot of built-up dust and debris in your house, so it’s no wonder it can be hard for sufferers to find relief.

While you can’t control the trees and flowers blooming, you can get a handle on your household’s allergens. Our handy blog post, Spring Clean These 6 Things to Reduce Allergens, names the top things in your home to clean to reduce allergy symptoms. These are things you’d likely expect (pillows and bedding) and some you might not (when’s the last time you cleaned your curtains?).

Decorate for Better Air Quality

It’s true you can decorate — or redecorate — any time of year, but there’s just something about spring that makes it feel like the perfect time to rearrange things around the home and try something new. This is also a great time to assess your home décor and how it’s affecting your indoor air quality. We’re thinking of carpeting that traps dirt and dust, or using chemical-filled candles and air fresheners.

In 4 Home Decorating Tips for Better Air Quality, we put a heavy emphasis on going green, especially when it comes to adding plants to your home to improve air quality and swapping your air fresheners for natural products. You’ll also want to take the time to replace your furnace and air conditioner filters — they play a huge part in the health of your home!

5 Mistakes San Diego Homeowners Make in Spring

If you’re a homeowner in San Diego, you already know how important it is to take care of particular parts of your house, such as cooling systems for our hot summers and air filters to catch all the dust in your home. It’s smart to use springtime as a chance to examine your property and make sure that you’re not making any of the mistakes we detail in our 5 Mistakes San Diego Homeowners Make in Spring blog post.

For example, although we already mentioned dusting and cleaning your bedding, have you been skipping an annual HVAC maintenance check? Even if you’re diligent about ensuring that the filters are clean, there could be problems you’re missing.

Regular preventive maintenance is necessary to keep your HVAC running smoothly, and it’s especially vital to get it checked before you have to turn on the air conditioning. Check out our Maintenance Program to find out how you can save on these services.

Get Ready for Flu Season

Thinking about flu season in the spring might seem crazy, but bear with us. Although many people think the flu strikes only during the winter, it can pop up in any season, and it can be even worse in the springtime. Plus, if you’ve got children, you know how tough it can be to quarantine your family at home.

Fortunately, our 3 Ways to Get Ready for Flu Season blog post has some tips to help you prepare your household. For example, is your home equipped with a good humidifier? Cold and flu germs have a hard time surviving in humid environments, which is why it’s important to get one running as soon as a member of your household starts sniffling. And of course, making sure your HVAC filter is clean is a big help when it comes to helping everyone breathe a little easier.

Tips for Spring Home Maintenance

If you need a quick refresher for spring cleaning along with some handy tips, our Spring Home Maintenance Tips blog post is a must-read. Even if you think you’ve got a handle on how to clean your home, have you considered what parts of your walls need a good washing? How about your fridge? And speaking of places where there might be mold growth, have you checked your attic’s ventilation lately? We’ve got these reminders for you, and a whole lot more.

Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating installs and services HVAC systems throughout San Diego County. Be sure to keep your eye on our blog for regular posts that can help you make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, and get in touch with us when it’s time to call in a professional.

Are candles affecting your indoor air quality

Are Candles Diminishing Your Indoor Air Quality?

Written by Kevin on March 14, 2019. Posted in Air Quality, Health. No Comments on Are Candles Diminishing Your Indoor Air Quality?

At Bob Jenson, we’re always on the lookout for ways to improve indoor air quality and the sneaky things that can reduce the air quality within our home. We’ve recommended natural air fresheners before, but we also realize that many households burn and use candles on a regular basis.

Some people enjoy the ambiance and soft glow of candlelight, while others love the variety of scents available on the market today. However you decide to use or burn candles, it’s important to consider the effects on indoor air quality that may be difficult to detect with the naked eye.

How Candles are Produced

The different production methods for candles contribute greatly to their possible negative effects on indoor air quality. Many consumer candles are made with paraffin wax, which is a petroleum waste product that must be “deodorized and chemically bleached” before it becomes wax.

The problem with this process is that when paraffin burns, it releases toxins similar to those found in burning diesel fuel. Not exactly what you want in your home! Some candle wicks are also produced using lead, which has a detrimental effect as the candle continues to burn over time.

Harmful Effects

There are many potential side effects that come with using candles. If you love candles, you don’t have to panic or take drastic action—but you should remain educated on the ways that candles can affect the quality of the air you and your family breathe on a daily basis.

Toxic Fumes

As noted above, paraffin wax candles produce certain toxins known as carcinogens. Carcinogenic substances carry a potential risk for developing diseases like cancer and should thus be reduced or controlled whenever possible. Candles may give off known carcinogens like toluene, acetone, and benzene, which have been documented to cause or worsen asthma and skin conditions.

Along the same lines, the scents produced by candles are pleasant but artificial. Since they are created through synthetic chemical processes, burning them can produce harmful organic compounds known as Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs. Many underlying respiratory conditions can stem from VOC sources in the home.

Cored Wicks

Some candle producers use metal materials to keep wicks upright while burning. Although practical, these metal centers often contain hidden sources of lead. When burned, this creates the risk for lead poisoning, particularly in homes with small children. Any candle that contains wicks with wire or metal centers should be replaced immediately.

Soot and Ash

Soot is a black smoke that may create stains on walls, fabrics, and clothing. This substance occurs when candles don’t burn completely, which happens more often with cheaply made candles. Although air particles from soot and ash are microscopic, they can still enter an individual’s lungs and respiratory system, creating various health problems down the road.

Best Practices for Burning

Most of us don’t think twice before lighting a favorite candle, but did you know that there are right and wrong ways to enjoy them? Carefully consider where and for how long you leave candles burning. Many candles provide recommendations on the packaging as to how many hours you should burn them at one time.

Paying attention to best practices when you burn candles is good for both air and fire safety. Burn candles in areas of your home that are well-ventilated and open and place lit candles away from drafty spots, since doing so can cut down on the amount of pollution carried through the air.

Better Alternatives

If you simply love to burn candles in your home and don’t want to swear off them entirely, there are a few alternatives that can help minimize or eliminate the risks involved.

Purchase candles that are made from soy or beeswax, as opposed to cheaper materials like paraffin wax. The slightly higher price-tag is worth the reduced health risk!
Choose candles that contain only one wick, and ensure that it is cut down to the appropriate size. Wicks should be trimmed to ¼ of an inch before burning.
Make the switch to essential oils in a diffuser instead of burning candles. This creates a similar aroma without the same risks to air quality.

Evaluate Your Air Quality

The air quality in your home is not something that you can or should take lightly. Consider the long-term effects of anything you bring into your home, and make sure to stay up to date on best practices and health risks or benefits.

If you’d like an evaluation of your home’s indoor air quality, contact Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating for an assessment or for other HVAC services.

7 Hidden Outdoor Gems to Explore in San Diego

Written by Kevin on February 28, 2019. Posted in Health, San Diego. No Comments on 7 Hidden Outdoor Gems to Explore in San Diego

Get Out of the House this Weekend!

Have you ever heard someone use the phrase “Indoor Generation” to describe the vast number of individuals who opt to stay in rather than venturing outside? More than ever, people are spending a staggering amount of their waking hours indoors. As Bob Jenson’s Kevin Burns noted on Realty Times, the reasons for this shift include a decrease in the number of outdoor jobs (in industries like farming and agriculture), changes in transportation methods, and shifts in various forms of entertainment.

Unfortunately, being indoors for a majority of the time comes at a hefty price. Health implications include dangerous levels of indoor air pollution, short-term issues like headaches or irritated eyes, and even Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) due to lack of consistent light exposure. While there are some things you can do within your space to improve air quality, nothing beats the age-old solution of simply spending time outside.

If you’re in the San Diego area and looking for ways to combat spending too many hours cooped up indoors, this list of outdoor hidden gems is sure to inspire you to explore a new place. After all, there’s a reason we’re one of the happiest cities in the country. These unique stops are perfect for San Diego natives and tourists alike.

Secret Swings

Are you looking for a tucked-away spot that provides great views while still feeling like a hidden treasure? You can find the “Secret Swings” on a La Jolla hillside above Scripps Pier near UC San Diego. This collection of handmade swings, complete with unique seats like benches and tires, is sure to provide some relaxation. The swings and locations are often on the move, so it’s a good idea to check out #secretswings on Instagram before you plan a visit.

Hidden Art Murals

When you think of San Diego, you might immediately think of the signature stunning landscapes and natural beauty. While that’s understandable, there’s also plenty of handmade beauty to check out as well. These man-made sights include several street murals found in La Jolla, Normal Heights, and North Park. You could even create a scavenger hunt so that you don’t miss any of the best art.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

If you’re a San Diego native, you might already have a favorite spot for watching the sunset on a warm day. If not, make time to take a drive to Torrey Pines: This natural reserve is known for the rarest pine tree in the nation and sculpted sand cliffs that are sure to leave you speechless. The picturesque landscape is one that you’ll want to visit again and again.

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge

Thrill seekers, locals, and tourists alike will enjoy the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. This dangling pathway was built in 1912, making it a historic “must-see” spot in the area. The unique walking bridge places you high above the treetops and provides a slight sense of danger as pedestrians wobble back and forth.

Del Mar Racetrack

Fond of all things equestrian? Be sure to plan a special visit to the Del Mar Racetrack, also called the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. Popular among tourists, this venue offers an al fresco breakfast complete with views of the track and practicing thoroughbreds. It’s a unique way to get out of the house on a nice day.

The Meditation Gardens

If you’re looking for a spot with natural serenity, look no further than the Meditation Gardens in Encinitas. These gardens are tucked away within the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Hermitage but they are open to the public. Here, you can sit back and enjoy the natural views, fresh flowers, koi ponds, and Birds of Paradise, all while accessing some inner zen.

Sunny Jim Cave Store

A true list of hidden gems wouldn’t be complete without something a bit quirky. On the surface, the Sunny Jim Cave Store looks like the average beachside tourist shop, selling goods like souvenirs, trinkets, coastal-inspired jewelry, and surf gear. The true treasure lies behind the store itself, where visitors can head down a steep tunnel to reach the La Jolla sea caves. The cave entrance is known for being mysteriously soothing, with natural mineral colors sprinkled all around.

After spending after a full day of exploring hidden San Diego gems, you’ll realize how special this city we live in is and how good it is, mentally and physically to get fresh air and discover new things! Keep checking back with our blog for more awesome treasures to find in San Diego!

8 Options for Natural Cleaning Products

Written by Kevin on February 21, 2019. Posted in Health, Home Improvement. No Comments on 8 Options for Natural Cleaning Products

Need a shortcut to improving the quality of your indoor air? It all starts with the type of cleaning products you use. If you’re cleaning your home with products that include harsh chemicals, you could unwittingly be unleashing toxic fumes and residue throughout your household. But if you switch to cleaning products manufactured with non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients, you’ll be creating a safer, healthier living space for your entire family — and helping the environment as well.

There’s no shortage of natural cleaning products and alternatives on the market these days, so we’ve compiled a list of eight of our favorites to help you get started. (PS: If you need help getting the family on board or creating a cleaning schedule, we’ve got you covered there, too.)

Green Works All Purpose Cleaning Spray

You’ll need an all-purpose cleaner in your arsenal of natural products, and this offering from Green Works is a solid choice. Savvy brand shoppers may already know that Green Works is owned by Clorox; however, this line of cleaning products is created without the same manufactured chemicals as its parent brand. Instead, Green Works uses essential oils and coconut-based cleansing ingredients to help cut through grease and dissolve all types of messes.

Seventh Generation Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner

Along with an all-purpose cleaner, you’re going to want a natural cleaner to tackle some of your bathroom’s more specific needs, like pesky mold and bacteria on sinks and showers. This offering from Seventh Generation utilizes essential oils to help disinfect and deodorize naturally, without the nasty fumes you’d get from regular bathroom cleaners. (They also offer multiple types of liquid laundry detergent and chlorine-free bleach if you’re looking to cut the chemicals out of your laundry!)

Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner

When it comes to cleaning your toilet, most of us look for something a little stronger than a standard bathroom cleaner — but unfortunately, “stronger” typically means corrosive chemicals and bleaching agents. Better Life’s toilet bowl cleaner, by comparison, isn’t dangerous for children and pets, plus it’s biodegradable, derived from plant materials, and safe for septic systems. Whatever makes cleaning the toilet a safer practice is good by us!

Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap

“Face, body, hair — food, dishes, mopping, pets — the best for human, home and Earth!” says Dr. Bronner’s company website, and though it might seem impossible that one natural soap is that multi-purpose, Dr. Bronner has the formula down pat — and in eight different non-toxic scents, to boot. Take note of their dilution cheat sheet — you’re going to want to make sure you mix only as much soap with water as you need for the task at hand.

Method Hand Wash

If you’re looking for a more affordable natural hand soap option, the Method brand is available in stores such as Walmart or Target, and they offer a wide array of different soaps to keep your hands clean and bacteria-free. According to The Good Trade, Method’s founders “have truly set the standard for any company aiming to be sustainable” by incorporating environment-friendly practices such as using renewable energy, making the packaging eco-friendly, and launching a biodiesel shipping program.

Breathe Aerosols

We place a lot of importance on air quality — household and otherwise — for a reason: if the air is full of invisible fumes and chemicals, it could be making you and your family sick. That’s why the Breathe line of natural aerosols is a top choice — their website notes that their product is the first aerosol cleaning line with 100% of ingredients meeting the EPAs Safer Choice criteria, and their aerosols are not made with the typical liquefied petroleum gas. Their furniture and stainless steel polishes should be what you’re reaching for if you’re doing a deep clean in your dining room.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Room Fresheners

Air fresheners are often where you’ll find problematic aerosols — do you really want strange chemicals and toxins floating around in the air you’re breathing indoors? Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day sells natural air freshening sprays in non-aerosol bottles to keep rooms fresh, so you don’t have to worry about your family inhaling something they shouldn’t. Bonus: The company also sells all-natural candles.

Vinegar

Think you have to spend a lot of money on organic cleaning products? Surprise: one of the most effective all-natural cleaners is probably already in your pantry! White vinegar — often combined with lemon juice and other infusions in order to take the edge off the sharp smell — is an incredibly cheap and effective way to make your own natural household cleaner.

Check out The Kitchn’s tutorial on how to make lemon-thyme vinegar cleaner, good for any surface except marble. Or, if you’re not the DIY type, The Strategist recommends White House Foods Cleaning Vinegar, which comes with a lavender scent.

Keep Clean Without Chemicals

Although it may seem like the cheaper and quicker way to get your house clean, choosing chemical-filled cleaning products can be worse for you — and the environment — in the long run. With so many natural cleaners to choose from, you’ll definitely be able to find what you need within your budget — and you might be amazed at how effective they are at keeping your home clean and toxin-free.

Be sure to follow the Bob Jenson blog for tips on improving household air quality, updates on the HVAC industry, and all other related topics!

How to Get the Whole Family on Board with Household Cleaning

Written by Kevin on February 14, 2019. Posted in DIY, Home Improvement. No Comments on How to Get the Whole Family on Board with Household Cleaning

Here on the Bob Jenson blog, we’ve talked regularly about the importance of keeping your home clean and dust-free and how those initiatives positively impact air quality and, in turn, the health of you and your family. However, household cleaning shouldn’t be the responsibility of any single person — maintaining good air quality is a task best tackled by your family as a team.

So what do you do when members of your family aren’t motivated to stay tidy, or when the kids start complaining about having to clean?

It’s easy for everyone to make excuses — what you have to do, as captain of Team Clean, is to transform cleaning the house into something that your family starts to enjoy conquering together. Here are a few ways how to do this:

Make a Chore List Together

Before you start putting together a cleaning schedule or shopping for cleaning products, you’re going to want to determine what needs to be cleaned around the house, and how often. To start, take a look at some of the biggest problem zones: bathrooms, playrooms, and kitchens are frequently in need of a good tidying up.

Next, determine who should be responsible for which cleaning chores. For example, you don’t want kids taking care of anything with cleaning chemicals or changing out the air filters, but they’re definitely capable of putting away their toys or dusting low shelves!

Once you’ve made your chore list, you’ll be ready for the next step: creating a chore chart.

Sort Out the Chore Chart

This is an effective way to keep families on track, especially those with young children. Put together a cleaning schedule in the form of a chart with columns for tasks, how often the cleaning needs to be done, when cleaning should happen, and who should be responsible. Depending on your household, it might even be valuable to have two different charts separated out by age-appropriate cleaning tasks: one for teens and adults, and one for the little ones.

Put the charts up somewhere visible like the kitchen fridge so nobody can miss them. You could even try making it more fun by using bright colors or stickers — Molly Maid has got some great, colorful chore chart templates, and the team at Bob Jenson has created a printable cleaning schedule just for this purpose.

Change It Up

Nobody’s going to want to do the exact same cleaning chores every week, so consider rotating different family members through the specified tasks. As you roll out the chores for the first few weeks, you might also find that one member of the family isn’t very effective at cleaning the bathroom, while another member drags their heels when it comes to vacuuming. Switch them around and see if you don’t get better results.

When you start playing to your family’s strengths, everyone wins — and there’ll be much less complaining as well.

Have Family Check-ins

Whether you’ve got a large or small family, it’s smart to have semi-regular check-ins to see how everyone’s feeling about their assigned cleaning tasks. You may have to reorganize the chore chart based on what dates and times work better for individual schedules, or you could let family members discuss which tasks they’d like to take on.

As The Happier Homemaker notes, this is also the perfect time to reinforce the general cleanup rules of the household, such as reminding children that they’ll lose their toy privileges for a certain amount of time if they don’t pick up after themselves as they go.

Be a Good Example

It should go without saying that you will be taking part in the cleaning tasks as well. However, it’s also smart to make your own everyday behavior a good example and let your family members see you putting away your own dishes or filing away the magazines you’ve just read.

Kids in particular definitely learn from what they see, and there’s a good chance that they might start naturally start cleaning their own messes because they see you doing it. Leading by example can go a long way in a short period of time!

Keep Clean and Have Fun

Getting your family to share household cleaning tasks doesn’t have to be an uphill battle — in fact, it’s a great way to promote teamwork and communication. Having a clean home will benefit your entire family when it comes to better air quality. Remember: don’t be afraid to divvy up cleaning chores — getting everyone involved helps build a stronger appreciation for a tidy living space.

Be sure to follow along with us here at the Bob Jenson blog for more useful household cleaning tips and tricks, and contact us if you have any questions or issues with your HVAC system.

Infographic: A Spring Cleaning Schedule for 2019

Written by Kevin on February 7, 2019. Posted in DIY, Home Improvement. No Comments on Infographic: A Spring Cleaning Schedule for 2019

Refining Your Cleaning Routine

A new year brings with it the opportunity for fresh starts and healthier habits.

Because many people focus on common resolutions like losing weight or exercising more to help boost their well-being, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important things you could be doing to enhance your life. Committing to a regular cleaning schedule not only frees you from the clutter and mess associated with higher levels of stress, but it also improves your everyday air quality.

Air quality in your home, office, and other indoor spaces is more important than you might think. Something as simple as an overload of dust or pet dander can lead to headaches, respiratory irritation, allergies, and even chronic fatigue.

A quick and simple structured cleaning schedule eliminates those nasty contaminants. Let 2019 be the year you discover a happier, more energetic you.

When you approach cleaning armed with a well-planned cleaning schedule, you’ll find that it’s much easier to stay on top of those crucial chores that contribute to a better quality of life. That means fewer weekends spent overhauling your entire home when you’d rather be spending time with the family.

Furthermore, as your tidying strategy beings to spruce up your home, you’ll notice other benefits beyond better air quality. Your home will seem more spacious thanks to limited clutter, you won’t spin into a cleaning frenzy when unexpected visitors turn up on your doorstep, and you may even find that your HVAC and air filters last longer, too!

Want to breathe easy this year? Check out the infographic below for an easy-to-follow, printable cleaning schedule.

bobjenson cleaningschedule infographic V2 791x1024 1

Download and Print:

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A Cleaning Schedule for the New Year

Written by Kevin on January 24, 2019. Posted in Health, Home Improvement. No Comments on A Cleaning Schedule for the New Year

Your tired and you can’t get rid of that nasty cough. Or is it the flu? (We certainly hope not.) We’ve all been there. Feeling under the weather is no fun, and what’s even less fun is wondering if the air quality in your home could be holding you back from regaining your health.

When you start off the new year with an effective cleaning schedule, you’re setting your entire family up for healthier living and enforcing strong habits. You’d be shocked how much of a difference weekly dusting and regular carpet cleaning can make!

Here are some tips for creating a schedule that works for you (while improving the air quality in your home).

Weekly Themed Schedule

Some tasks should be done every week. Make it easy to remember what you’re working on each day by creating a theme. If you’re lucky, it might also make it easier to get your kids on board with helping. Here are some samples to inspire your own daily cleaning themes:

Moppin’ Monday: Give your hardwood floors and carpets a good cleaning every Monday. After a weekend of outdoor play or family gatherings, it’s good to rid of the dirt that was tracked inside.

Toss It Tuesday: Take out the garbage, clean out your fridge, and go through your mail on Tuesday. The less clutter you have, the easier it is to wipe down surfaces and keep them dust free.

Wiping Wednesday: It’s time to wipe down your tables, counters, TVs, bathrooms, and doorknobs. You’ll get rid of germs and dust in a single swoop; don’t forget to reach behind picture frames and other spots where dust can sneakily collect.

Thorough Clean Thursday: You should reserve at least one day for projects that take a bit more time. Does your bathtub need a detailed grout clean? Is the dust beginning to show on your crown molding? Schedule one of these projects per week so they’re less daunting than trying to tackle them all at once.

Folding Friday: Clean your sheets, towels, and laundry once a week. You’ll definitely want to wash hand towels that are used by multiple people throughout the week – you’d be surprised how many germs your freshly washed hands can still leave behind! Get everything folded and sorted so you start the weekend with this task behind you.

Monthly Cleaning Chores

Other cleaning jobs are just as important but don’t need to happen every day or week. Dedicate a half-day once a month to the following cleaning projects:

Cleaning the blades on your ceiling fans
Dusting light fixtures
Vacuuming furniture
Checking air filters and replacing as necessary
Checking other filters in the home as well
Shaking out rugs
Dusting window blinds
Wiping down the inside of your washer and dryer

Quarterly Upkeep

Every 3 to 4 months, you should roll up your sleeves and take care of some deep cleaning. Dust and debris can collect in the most random of places, and a quarterly deep clean ensures that you’re not missing any blind spots. Check these cleaning items off your list about four times a year:

Wash your comforter and pillows
Clean shower curtains and liners
Clean the inside of your oven and dishwasher
Give your refrigerator and freezer a thorough cleaning
Vacuum out the fireplace
Shampoo your carpets

Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule means fewer scrambles to clean everything at once, less stress, and improved air quality. Maintaining a dust-free home with clean air vents means the air quality that’s circulating won’t be filled with dirt — not only will you impress your guests with a floor that’s clean enough to eat off of, but your airways will thank you, too.

Want to keep up with all of the ways to keep your home’s air supply clean and your surfaces tidy? Follow the Bob Jenson blog for the latest news on home air quality, HVAC repairs, and more.

Why You Shouldn’t Take a DIY Approach to Your HVAC

Written by Kevin on January 18, 2019. Posted in DIY, HVAC. No Comments on Why You Shouldn’t Take a DIY Approach to Your HVAC

Here at Bob Jenson, we’ve heard DIY stories that run the gamut when it comes to folks trying to tackle their HVAC systems. From the guy who improperly installed a replacement cooling unit in his attic and ended up ruining expensive electronics to the woman who didn’t realize something was wrong until her unit started smoking, there seems to be an endless supply of these sort of tales.

Do-it-yourself projects may be entertaining, but they often involve doing it wrong, especially when it comes to HVAC systems. In some areas, mistakes might be part of the learning curve and not that big of a deal, but when it comes to your HVAC, you probably don’t want to risk it.

Bottom line: Your handyman skills are, well, handy for fixing a stuck door or building a new end table, but here are just a few of the reasons you ought not to try your hand at HVAC repairs and replacement. Instead, reach out to the team at Bob Jenson. Our award-winning, industry-certified technicians are best in class.

You Don’t Have the Right Tools

Though you might have a fancy set of forty screwdrivers and your grandfather’s trusty pair of pliers, you likely do not have the specialized equipment and talent required to work on your heating and cooling system. Watching YouTube videos doesn’t provide the same knowledge as proper training and hands-on experience.

But you know who does have access to these expensive tools and technology? Educated, skilled HVAC field technicians who have trained for years to work on these complicated systems. Bob Jenson’s technicians are not only well-trained, but they’re licensed, insured, and bonded to ensure your confidence in their work.

You’re Putting Yourself (and Your Family) at Risk

Working with HVAC systems can be awfully dangerous if you’re not prepared. Toxic fumes, high voltages, carbon monoxide, sharp metal edges, flammable natural gas — these are but some of the dangers that professionals know how to navigate.

Working with cooling systems also means working with refrigerant chemicals, and the EPA has very specific requirements with regards to handling and disposal of those dangerous materials. Bob Jenson has the know-how and all the necessary safety equipment — like goggles, gloves, earplugs, and respiratory protection — needed to safely complete the job.

You’re Causing Costly Long-Term Issues

Even if you have managed to avoid injuring yourself while tooling around with the ducts in your home, the odds are strong that you will have made your system less efficient. Even small issues or changes can lead to much more significant (and expensive) problems in the future; for instance, even a slight uptick in humidity because of a change you made could lead to a future outbreak of mold or mildew.

Who pays a heavy cost for those small inefficiencies in the long run? Your bank account knows the answer. Leave the fixing to the pros and you’ll save big.

You Might Void Your Warranties

Your HVAC system is comprised of many different parts, machines, ducts, levers, pieces, and assorted components, and many of these have manufacturers’ warranties that will be voided if you tamper with them. Most warranties require a certified HVAC professional to maintain or repair your system. That warranty is valuable — keep it intact by relying on Bob Jenson instead.

You’re Lowering the Value of Your Home

Shoddy HVAC work will negatively affect your home’s resale value. Consider the potential homebuyer who inspects the attic only to find the heating system barely held together with duct tape, the remnants of a botched repair job.

Most people sell two or three homes in a lifetime, so keep your home as valuable as it can be with regular maintenance and proper (read: professionally performed) repair work.

Checklist for a Healthy HVAC System

Even though you’re now aware of many reasons to leave your HVAC system’s repair and replacement to the professionals, you may be wondering what you can do to positively impact your air quality and HVAC system.

Here are some actions you can take:

Replace your HVAC system’s air filter regularly, about once each month, but at least once a season.
Regularly check and clean other filters in your home, such as air purifier and clothes dryer filters.
Clear away any branches and leaves to maintain clear space around your outside unit.
Check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector, or buy one for each level of your home if you do not own any.
Keep aware of any signs of wear and tear, including unusual noises coming from the ductwork.
If your air is not blowing cool enough or strongly enough, check that no vents are blocked and all registers and vents are open.

Most importantly, contact us to help with any and all HVAC maintenance, sales, and repair needs. We are always prepared to assist you!

A Day in the Life of an HVAC Technician

Written by Kevin on January 10, 2019. Posted in HVAC, Maintenance. No Comments on A Day in the Life of an HVAC Technician

Meet Marty, a skilled and trusted HVAC technician who lives in San Diego. Working for Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, an established family business in the San Diego area, means that he calls the whole county his service area. No two days are alike at Marty’s job, and he’d be the first to tell you that every call requires good communication skills, resourceful thinking, and quality training. Above all, he prioritizes his customers above all else.

Come along with Marty to learn what a day in the life of an HVAC technician looks like!

7:30-8:30 a.m.

Marty starts his morning by driving to the office and meets with his Service Manager. He learns which clients require service that day and after a quick appraisal of the day’s jobs, Marty grabs the required gear and safety equipment. Restocking the work van, cleaning and gathering the needed parts and filters takes a few minutes, and then Marty drives to the first location.

8:30-9:30 a.m.

The first stop of the day is a common task for Marty: performing a regular maintenance check on a customer’s HVAC system. Rhonda, who lives in La Jolla, is a decades-long client, partially because of the excellent customer service and the consistency of high-quality work she’s received from Bob Jenson.

Marty asks if Rhonda has noticed any heating or cooling issues over the past year and after confirming she hasn’t, Marty continues his inspection. He discovers a part that appears to be malfunctioning slightly and takes note to show Rhonda right away.

Marty get Rhonda’s approval to order the new part and documents the expected arrival date on Rhonda’s paperwork and reviews his maintenance check with her before wishing her well and moving on to his second client of the day.

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The installation of an HVAC unit at a new microbrewery opening up in North County will take the better part of his day, so Marty joins several other colleagues who are already on-site to help with the install.

Because this is building is still under construction, Marty will have to work in cramped quarters and in very cold crawlspaces and ceilings. Marty’s years of experience interpreting blueprints and working to exact specification means he is able to work quickly and efficiently. He’s reminded of a similar installation that took place this past July, in which he helped install rooftop chillers and air conditioning units in a new build across town—incredibly sweaty work!

In the mid-afternoon, Marty gets a call from his supervisor letting him know a nearby customer is having issues maintaining temperature in his home. After he finishes some wiring, he cleans himself up and hops back into the van to visit that client.

12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

Marty Grabs a quick bite to eat on the way to his next call, he knows all the good spots around San Diego!

1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

After arriving on the call and having a brief discussion with Ernesto, the Imperial Beach resident who is having issues keeping his house warm, Marty investigates several possible causes of the problem. He checks that the thermostat is in working order. He performs visual inspections for leaks in the pipes and defective joints in the ductwork. He methodically checks the safety components that would stop the unit from working. Finally, he disassembles part of the HVAC equipment and finds the problem. It’s a simple fix for Marty and his tool bag, but not one that the average person could repair on his own. (While it’s tempting to DIY, many times, it’s best to let HVAC professionals handle repairs and maintenance.)

Marty then provides an efficiency check to ensure that Ernesto’s system is operating as it should. Ernesto is happy when warm air once again flows into his home! Marty cleans up and receives payment, he checks if there is anything else he can do and also recommends particular thermostat settings to keep his home warm and comfortable all winter long. Finally he leaves a review card for Ernesto to be able to leave a review online, he knows how valuable a review from a happy customer can be for himself and the company!

3:30-4:30 p.m.

Marty returns to the office to submit his daily paperwork and returns the borrowed tools and equipment to the office. His service manager lets him know, Ernesto has already left a great review! After getting some kudos, he grabs his personal tools that he wishes to take home with him and signs out, satisfied with another rewarding day of keeping his skills sharp and helping his customers stay comfortable.

Of course, temperature control systems can break down at any point on any day, and in such emergencies, they need to be fixed right away in order to protect people’s health and safety, as well as keep clients comfortable. Like his co-workers, Marty sometimes has to squeeze in unexpected calls, work late and can be on call some weekends in order to assist customers with breakdowns and time-sensitive issues with HVAC systems.

If you have further questions about HVAC services or want to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled techs, call Bob Jenson today. Don’t ask for Marty though, he’s just an example technician! Bob Jenson A/C has been serving the San Diego area since the late 1970s and has continued to be a trusted provider today.

Top 5 Qualities of the Right HVAC Contractor

Written by Kevin on December 28, 2018. Posted in HVAC, San Diego. No Comments on Top 5 Qualities of the Right HVAC Contractor

Forget Brand, Choose the Right Contractor

If all these years in the HVAC industry have taught our staff at Bob Jenson anything, it’s that clients sometimes underestimate just how critical proper HVAC installation is. The wrong installation can result in sweaty summers, winters not warm enough, and utility bills through the roof.

So how can you choose an HVAC provider you can trust? You probably want more info than what’s on Yelp — although if you just looked at our reviews, we’d be okay with that. Before you contact a contractor to install a new system or upgrade an outdated one, learn these five essential qualities to ensure that you end up satisfied with the HVAC provider you choose.

They Have the Proper Paperwork

First and foremost, a proper HVAC contractor in California will be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. This licensure allows a contractor to manipulate electrical, plumbing, and gas lines. Licensed contractors know how to handle refrigerant, especially in compliance with federal restrictions from the Clean Air Act that require newer air conditioning units to use R-410A instead of R-22.

Look for your contractor’s license number on their website (ours is located at the bottom of the page), business cards, informational pamphlets and brochures, and/or their work vehicles. The parent company will also hold worker’s compensation, liability insurance, and a surety bond.

They Meet You in Person

A legitimate contractor will always visit your home or business to provide an estimate or bid. Beware of inexperienced contractors who will try to hustle you with an attractive price over the phone without ever setting foot inside your door. Windows, insulation, ducting, number of registers, square footage — these are all concerns that a proper contractor will take into account during a walkthrough. A contractor will then utilize calculations — known in the industry as Manuals J (for cooling and heating), S (for equipment size), and D (for ductwork) — to create a thorough evaluation.

Don’t rely on verbal or over-the-phone promises. Always insist on a written and itemized contract that includes payment due dates and project deadlines, which any reputable HVAC company would be happy to provide.

They Rely on Knowledge and Experience

You want a contractor who will select the perfect HVAC system for your home or business. Choosing the correct size or having an energy-efficient air conditioning unit is far more important than buying the most popular brand. For instance, heating and cooling systems that are Energy Star qualified meet strict federal standards for energy efficiency, thereby promoting long-term savings on utility costs.

Some contractors will attempt to push a certain model on customers simply because they are trying to get rid of old inventory, or they will use gimmicks and act-now discounts to disguise their inexperience. Ethical contractors will also make you aware of your system’s warranties, in addition to any guarantees, incentives, and potential rebates and refunds available to you as the homeowner or business owner.

They’re Certified and Proud of It

The best HVAC contractors stay up-to-date on the latest technologies in order to save their customers money on utility costs. You’re ideally looking for a company that has years of experience installing multiple types and sizes of HVAC systems and a demonstrable skill set in computers and programmable systems.

The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization, the nation’s largest non-profit organization for HVAC installers, also provides rigorous testing to earn their certification, with additional continuous education programs required for recertification every two years. A NATE-certified HVAC installer typically provides the highest-quality service with fewer average callbacks than a contractor without such credentials.

They’re Trusted in Your Community

You will want to brush up on a company’s credentials by reading about their past service, but be skeptical of online reviews that are overwhelmingly glowing or deeply bitter without providing much in the way of specific details. The Better Business Bureau is a solid resource to utilize — Bob Jenson has an A+ rating and zero customer complaints through the BBB — as are Angie’s List and the ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America).

Of course, your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors might provide the most honest and important recommendations, and the best HVAC companies work hard to maintain their community standing. Bob Jenson is a highly accredited, certified, licensed, and experienced HVAC contractor, serving the Greater San Diego Area. Contact our trusted experts today to experience the difference!