Cripe Heating and Air

As we head into the busy season, it’s important to remember that our industry’s responsibility goes far beyond simply installing equipment. Our commitment should always be to deliver complete, high-quality solutions that perform as intended.

The Department of Energy (DOE) continues to report a staggering statistic: approximately 65% of HVAC systems tested are installed incorrectly. Why is this such a serious issue?

One major factor is the lack of ongoing education across the industry. Too often, new technicians are not receiving the level of training they truly need. As a result, companies are left to invest significant time and resources into additional training even after formal schooling is completed. Unfortunately, there is still a mindset among some professionals that says, “We’ve always done it this way, so why change?” That approach is holding our industry back.

Even with one of our newer technicians, who came in with prior experience, nearly 50% of the inspections he has performed have uncovered installation issues. He was also surprised by the number of service calls involving systems that were improperly charged from the start.

Another major challenge is pricing. Too many contractors price their work out of fear rather than based on the value they provide. The DOE has acknowledged that choosing the lowest bid often costs homeowners more in the long run through increased energy consumption, reduced equipment lifespan, and decreased comfort.

Whether you choose our company or another contractor, always ask for a load calculation. In my last two estimates, the existing system recommendations were oversized for the home. Proper system sizing matters. Also, ask for an installation commissioning report so you can be confident the system was installed, tested, and verified to perform at its best.

The right equipment is important, but proper design, installation, and commissioning are what truly determine long-term performance.

Amazing video for all tradesman. If this doesn’t move you, I don’t know what will. Be proud of your craft and live by the message behind this video.

A Theology of Building Learn to build with us. Explore programs, apprenticeships, and classes (including timber framing open to anyone): https://www.collegeofstjoseph.comCome teach...

Not every HVAC company is the same… just like not every restaurant is the same.

A fast food burger and a steakhouse burger both technically feed you… but the ingredients, preparation, experience, and results are completely different. So is the price.

HVAC is no different.

Some companies “install boxes.”
Others take the time to properly design, size, commission, test, verify airflow, measure static pressure, seal ductwork, and ensure the system actually performs the way it was intended.

Two systems may look similar from the outside, but what’s behind the grille, inside the ductwork, and in the installation process is what determines comfort, efficiency, reliability, and longevity.

Lowest price and highest quality are rarely found in the same place.

At Cripe Heating and Air we know the cost doing the job for less and we strive to hold the bar higher than anyone else.

That does mean you might pay a little more for our work than others but is having your expensive equipment working more efficiently, last longer, and fail less worth the risk of the cheaper less knowledgable installers just putting in the equipment in. Not tuning the system or making adjustments to the duct work to ensure that it works right. I don't know. You tell me when you call us for all your hvac needs!!!

Velocity vs. Volume

A lot of people get confused on air velocity with airflow volume and both are very important.

Velocity = how FAST the air moves
CFM = how MUCH air moves

You can have:

* High velocity but low airflow
* Low velocity but high airflow

Example:
A tiny duct may blow very hard and loud but still deliver less total air than a larger, properly sized duct.

This is why oversized returns and larger ducts are often quieter and your home feels more comfortable:

* Lower velocity
* Less turbulence
* Lower static pressure
* Better airflow distribution

Does you outdoor unit have an exposed coil? Does it look like this. Steven got his first opportunity to address a loud ac unit. This unit was running over 20 degrees hotter than it should as well as being overcharged. It h took him the better part of 6 hours to get the coils cleaned up with a fin comb and correct the charge. Dont go another summer with your outdoor coil fins bent over!!!

If you can tell me what’s wrong in this picture, you might have a bright future in HVAC. Attention to detail is essential, and we are seeking candidates who consistently uphold high standards of quality and professionalism, even when working independently.

Out with the old 15-ton system and in with the new!

Due to the disassembling and reassembling portion, this project was one of the biggest jobs our team has completed to date. The existing air handlers had to be carefully cut into sections for removal, then the new units were carried up three flights of stairs piece by piece and fully reassembled in the attic.

After 10 long days of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, the installation is complete — and we passed city inspection on the very first visit.

A huge thank you to Sean and the leadership team at Inpower Ministries for their trust and support throughout this project. We truly appreciate the opportunity to take on such a significant installation.

We were also able to complete the electrical work on this project, thanks to Affordable Electric-Robert Meola.

Proud of our crew for pushing through and getting the job done right!