Category: Uncategorized

Spotting Signs That the Heater Needs Repair

Halloween is coming, and with it, cooler temperatures. This means that the chills running down peoples’ spines may not be solely attributable to the spookiness during the season. For many people, this is the time of year that they will turn their heaters on consistently for the first time. However, some of those people will discover that problems have popped up in the offseason, preventing their heater from properly heating their home. 

Heaters are complex machines that can fail in unexpected ways. Spotting signs that a heater is failing can allow homeowners to call for heater repair so that the damage doesn’t spread to other components within the heater and its efficiency doesn’t suffer further. Here are common signs that heater repair is needed.  

Inadequate Heating 

Heater repairs are not DIY projects, so most people don’t attempt to fix their heating systems due to their complexity. When problems arise, the best course of action is to call a heating repair contractor to inspect and repair the system. The first and most obvious sign that heater repair is needed is inadequate heating around the home. 

A malfunctioning heater will have a harder time keeping up as temperatures drop. This will be even more recognizable if a problem prevents the heater from heating the home as quickly as it did previously or prevents the heating from working at all. If the heater seems to be running too long of cycles to heat the home, or the air from the vents doesn't seem as warm as it should be, call a heating professional before bills get out of hand or the family is left uncomfortably cool. 

New and Unusual Sounds 

Another common sign that heater repairs are needed fits in with the season. During Halloween, spooky thumps and squeals are common accompaniments with decorations to serve as a background for the holiday. However, when it comes to heaters, they can produce their own soundtrack for the holiday when something is wrong. Some of the sounds that are common with the heater that can indicate the need for heating system repair are: 

• Squealing coming from loose belts
• Thumps from expanding ductwork that has come loose
• Grinding from unlubricated parts 
• Hissing due to low refrigerant
• Humming from motors that are failing

Calling a professional when something doesn’t sound right is always the best course of action. They can make quick repairs and stop problems before they spread or cause other parts to fail prematurely. 

Spiking Energy Bills 

While the cool season is usually the time of year when heating bills rise, abnormally high heating bills are a common sign that something is wrong. If homeowners diligently track their utility bills, they can notice spikes that could indicate a problem with their furnace or other heating system. 

If high energy bills are plaguing the Halloween season, call a professional to fix the heater. When heaters run inefficiently due to a lack of maintenance or a faulty component, it can cause bills to climb and a heater’s lifespan to suffer. With a visit from an HVAC expert, heating bills can stay lower, and the heater can be trusted to run faithfully for the rest of the season.  

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air is a plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical company serving Jupiter and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for heater repair services in Jupiter, FL.

Signs of Electrical Wiring Problems 

Electrical contractors estimate that the average home has nearly a mile of electrical wiring. When that wiring is installed using the latest building codes and high standards of workmanship, the materials can be expected to last for decades. However, not every situation is perfect. Sometimes, wiring is installed in such a way that it starts to fail. Other times, specific wires get used so often that they tend to fail before others. Regardless of the cause, keeping electrical wiring in good shape is a primary concern for property owners. 

When electrical wiring is faulty, it can present a massive safety concern for the home and those who live in it. One of the largest contributors to property loss, residential or commercial, is electrical fires resulting from faulty wiring. Electricians do everything possible to minimize the risk, but they can’t be everywhere. The duty falls to the homeowners to recognize the signs of bad electrical wiring. Here are three common signs that electrical problems are coming from the wiring.  

Tripped Breakers and Blown Fuses 

When electricity is flowing through the wiring, it heats the wiring. This is true under normal circumstances and is usually managed by observing building codes. One of the building codes designed to permit the optimal flow of electricity is the presence of circuit breakers and fuses. These devices limit how much electricity can flow through a wire and can stop the flow if it becomes too fast. 

If fuses are constantly blowing and breakers are tripping, there is likely a problem with the wiring on that particular circuit. A few common issues could contribute to the problem, which can all be dangerous. If tripped breakers and blown fuses are common, getting an electrician to look for the problem in the electrical system and wiring is a good idea. 

Hot Outlets or Signs of Scorching 

When breakers don’t trip, or fuses don’t blow to limit the amount of current flowing in a wire, it can lead to a positive feedback loop that causes heat to build up. When this situation is allowed to continue, fires can be the result. The second sign of faulty wiring is all about spotting the signs of overheating. 

Outlets are a common source of wiring issues because they are frequently used. This can cause wiring to come loose and demand too much electricity. Outlets with this problem can be warm to the touch or may have soot on the faceplate, the result of scorching. Professionals need to be called if these signs are spotted in any of the home’s outlets. 

Burning Smells or Buzzing Sounds Near Outlets 

Other signs of faulty wiring can also be common near outlets or other parts of the electrical system and are related to overheating. Electrical boxes are designed to contain and prevent fires and can sometimes inhibit small fires to the point there is no visible evidence. This is why property owners need to rely on other senses to find faulty wiring. 

The strong odor of electrical fires or burning may be present if the wiring is faulty. There can also be audible buzzing noises that can sound like the hum of a transformer or a rapid buzzing. If a homeowner notices any signs of bad electrical wiring, power should be turned off, and professionals should be called immediately to keep the home and its residents safe. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over 30 years of experience serving Jupiter and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and 24-hour emergency service. Call them for electrical services in Jupiter, FL. 

What You Need to Know About Indoor Air Quality

When people talk about air pollution, most usually refer to the quality of air in the atmosphere and outdoors. We think about wildfires, automobile exhaust, secondhand smoke, and the like, making people assume that the best way to avoid contracting respiratory issues, as a result, is by heading indoors, not realizing that indoor air has its own set of contaminants and can also affect respiratory health if not managed properly.

This is what is referred to as indoor air quality or IAQ, a term used to talk about air quality in enclosed spaces. This post will discuss the health effects of poor indoor air quality and some tips and services that will help improve indoor air quality and the health of those in the home. 

Indoor Air Quality: How It Affects Our Health

Many people may not be aware, but indoor air quality is one of the most critical factors that can determine the health of the occupants of a home or commercial building. People who breathe in air that is of poor quality can be plagued with a host of respiratory symptoms and other related illnesses as a result. 

These symptoms can range from mild to moderate such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Asthma and aggravated allergic episodes are also severe health effects that could be attributed to poor indoor air quality. If someone is frequently experiencing poor health while indoors, the air quality can be to blame and needs to be addressed.  

A Well-Maintained HVAC System Improves IAQ

A home’s HVAC system may be responsible primarily for heating and cooling the air. Still, in the process, it also becomes involved in recirculating the air indoors, which means that the HVAC system plays a significant role in achieving better indoor air quality. To maximize its air cleaning potential, homeowners should replace their air filters on time, typically at least four times a year or once every quarter. 

Regular air filter replacements ensure dirt and debris are trapped effectively, and the unit works efficiently. HVAC units will also benefit from regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance from a licensed technician to keep them clean and in excellent condition. Routine maintenance and filter changes will help homeowners maintain good indoor air quality. 

Using Technology to Your Advantage

Technology can be very helpful when it comes to cleaning the air indoors. These days, plenty of appliances in the market can be used to improve indoor air quality, such as air purifiers and UV air sanitizers. While both are excellent options for cleaning indoor air, each device does so in very different ways. 

An air purifier is designed to remove larger pollutants that contaminate the air by passing room air through a series of filters that trap these particles, allowing clean air to return to the room. Homeowners constantly troubled by allergens like dust, dirt, pollen, mold, and mildew will find that air purifiers are a great way to keep their asthma or allergies in check.

UV air sanitizers, on the other hand, don’t have filters. Instead, they employ UV-C light, which is effective in killing smaller microorganisms that tend to be airborne. UV sanitizers can eliminate air contaminants such as bacteria, germs, viruses, and other biological pollutants that may be too small to be trapped in filters. Either way, homes can benefit from the cleaning power of these kinds of devices.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has been serving the Jupiter community and the surrounding areas since 1988. They offer upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and same-day service. Call them today for indoor air quality services in Jupiter, FL. 

Tamper-Resistant Outlets Keep the Family Safe 

It’s no secret that electricity is dangerous. Although people rely on it nearly every minute of every day, the utility can be hazardous when not properly handled. When it comes to children, everyone knows they are curious. Each year children are injured when they tamper with outlets that are right at their eye level. Luckily, improving technology has allowed families to protect themselves without sacrificing convenience. 

Childproof outlets, also known as tamper-resistant outlets, prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the live electrical parts. When these outlets are in place around the home, parents can have the peace of mind of knowing that their little ones are protected. Here is a quick guide about installing tamper-resistant outlets in the home. 

What Is a Tamper-Resistant Outlet? 

Until recently, the only option for child electrical safety was plastic caps inserted into outlets to keep kids from investigating. These devices have two main problems. First, they are a huge inconvenience because they must be removed when the outlet is used. Second, children can quickly figure out how to remove them, thus exposing them to electrical hazards and becoming choking hazards. 

Childproof and tamper-resistant outlets prevent children from sticking things in outlets with special spring-loaded shutters. These shutters in each outlet opening only move out of the way when equal pressure is applied to both openings in the outlets with a plug, a feat that children can’t achieve. 

Reasons to Install Childproof Outlets 

Childproof outlets are one of the latest developments in electrical safety for the home. Here are some of the reasons why parents and homeowners everywhere are choosing to install them:

• Protects children from electric burns and shocks
• No choking hazards present as with plastic outlet caps 
• Complete electrical protection
• No inconvenience trying to remove plastic caps
• Adds value to the home
• Meets the latest building codes 

Families have enough to worry about without micromanaging toddlers as they play. With childproof outlets, they can gain more peace of mind that their children are safe at home. 

When Is the Right Time to Replace Old Outlets? 

Despite the fact that many outlets are in near-constant use, they can last for up to 20 years before problems start to arise, but once the outlets show certain signs, they may need to be replaced regardless of their age to ensure electrical safety. Some of the signs that outlets need to be upgraded are: 

• Cracked faceplates
• Loose plugs
• Warm to the touch
• Scorch marks or evidence of arcing or fires
• Cracked outlet openings 

Even if there are no children in the home, upgrading old and damaged outlets to childproof outlets can be a selling point for the home, and they still offer protection to the family. If the signs are there or homeowners want a safety upgrade, discuss installing tamper-resistant outlets with an electrician. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over three decades of experience serving Jupiter and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrival, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical outlet replacement or repair in Jupiter, FL.

Save Money While Staying Cool 

Every season seems to have hidden expenses that pop out of nowhere but are nonetheless non-negotiable. During the summer, the main cost that catches people off guard is the bills associated with keeping a space cool. After a brief reprieve from climate-control bills during the mild spring months, the temperature skyrockets along with cooling bills at a certain point. 

One of the downsides of high summer cooling bills is that they put a damper on the budget that would otherwise be used for fun. Instead of going on a vacation, homeowners find themselves shelling out spare cash just to stay comfortable indoors. Instead of hiding indoors and watching summer fly by, why not save money for a good time? Here are some tips from the experts that can help every home and business owner save money during the summer. 

Smart Thermostat 

The thermostat can be a contributor to wasted money during the summer. When temperatures rise, too many people spend too much time raising and lowering the setpoint. All of that switching creates inefficiencies that can compromise savings and comfort. Luckily, there is a better way. 

The goal of fiddling with the thermostat is often to make the system run more efficiently and save money. The principle is sound, but the method needs to be corrected. With new-generation smart thermostats and programmable thermostats, homeowners can reduce their energy usage without constantly making manual adjustments. Smart thermostats learn the patterns of people in the home or business and automatically make adjustments to reduce energy usage and save money, and programmable thermostats can be directly programmed to only cool spaces when people are present. They can also be controlled remotely from anywhere, including outside the home. All of their features can help save a ton on air conditioning bills. 

Add Weatherstripping 

In every home and business, there can be inefficiencies, allowing conditioned air to sneak back into the summer heat and be wasted. Finding the sources of air leaks and adding weatherstripping can lower energy usage noticeably with minimal extra effort. Look to add weatherstripping in places where air escaping is common, like: 

• Around windows
• The seals around doors leading to the outdoors
• Transition plates of doorways
• Across the gap between window sashes

Weatherstripping is cheap and easy to install. It can ensure that more of the outside air stays outside and the inside air stays in. Take the time to treat these inefficiencies and enjoy lower utility bills during the summer. 

Use Ceiling Fans 

One of the best ways to drastically lower energy bills is to reduce the runtime of the air conditioner. This can be easily accomplished by simply raising the setpoint of the system by a few degrees. However, the downside of this strategy is that it can become hot in no time. However, instead of sweating it out, why not use ceiling fans to compensate for those few degrees to keep the home cool?

To save energy and money, raise the temperature on the thermostat a bit and rely on ceiling fans to make up the difference. Before adopting this strategy, ensure the ceiling fan direction is set to spin counterclockwise to blow a cooling draft down on a room’s occupants. Ceiling fans use much less energy than air conditioners but can be an effective tool to help keep cool while saving money. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air provides 24/7, 365 days a year emergency service to the residents of Jupiter and the surrounding areas. They also offer same-day service, upfront pricing, and personal attention. Call them today for ceiling fan installation and repair or thermostat services in Jupiter, FL.

Practice Electrical Safety for Electrical Safety Month!

In honor of National Electrical Safety Month, experienced electricians want to remind homeowners to practice electrical safety not just this month but all year round. Electrical safety is critical for preventing electrocutions, electrical fires, and other accidents in a home. 

Homeowners can take simple steps to ensure their electrical systems are safe, starting with awareness and knowledge. In this article, these experts share some essential electrical safety tips and devices that every homeowner should know about to keep their homes safe.

Essential Electrical Safety Devices for Your Home

To protect the home and loved ones from electrical hazards, it's crucial to have the right safety devices in place. Electrical safety devices such as fuses, circuit breakers, and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to prevent electrical fires, shocks, and other electric hazards. Installing them in any electrical system is a must for ensuring safety, and it’s essential to ensure that these devices are regularly tested and maintained to remain in working order. 

Fuses protect against overloads by detecting an increase in current and automatically disconnecting the circuit. They are made of a metal strip that melts when too much current passes through them, thus breaking the connection and preventing further current from flowing. Circuit breakers detect a potential problem, such as an overload or short-circuit, and then automatically open the circuit, preventing further current from passing through and protecting the circuit from damage. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) protect people by detecting any difference between the incoming and outgoing electrical currents, indicating a potential shock hazard. If such an imbalance is detected, the GFCI will automatically disconnect the circuit, preventing anyone from being shocked.

Ways to Identify Overloaded Electrical Circuits

As the number of electronic devices and appliances used in homes increases, the risk of circuit overload also increases. Overloaded electrical circuits can cause damage to appliances and devices and even start an electrical fire, so it’s vital to identify the signs of an overloaded circuit to prevent hazardous situations. Here are some signs of circuit overloads to look out for:

• Flickering or dimming lights
• Breakers that trip frequently
• Buzzing or sizzling sounds from outlets or switches
• Warm or discolored outlets or switch plates
• Burning smells coming from outlets or switches
• Outlets or switches that don't work properly

If homeowners notice any of these signs, it is crucial to contact a qualified electrician to inspect the electrical system and address any issues that may be present to prevent electrical hazards.

Protect Electronics With Whole Home Surge Protection

Every year, power surges caused by lightning, electrical grid disruptions, or high-powered appliances damage countless electronic devices in American homes. A power surge can fry expensive electronics and cause irreparable damage. That's why investing in whole home surge protection is essential to protect appliances and devices from power surges. 

A whole home surge protector will act as a barrier between the power source and the home’s internal wiring. It effectively blocks any potentially damaging power surges and prevents surges from reaching electronics, ultimately extending their lifespan and saving money in replacement costs. In addition, they can also protect against power outages and voltage fluctuations. By installing a whole home surge protector, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their valuable electronics and appliances are safe from sudden power spikes.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has been serving residents of Jupiter, FL, and the surrounding areas since 1988. They provide upfront pricing, on-time arrivals, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for electrical or surge protector services in Jupiter, FL. 

Prepare for the Summer With Spring AC Maintenance

Spring cleaning is the number one thing on people’s to-do lists this time of year. Along with spring cleaning comes multiple projects, including anything from tidying up the house or cleaning out the garage to preparing the landscaping for summer. 

Along with all the projects typically found on a spring cleaning checklist, there are usually some home maintenance items. For homeowners that tend to forget important spring cleaning projects, here is a reminder not to neglect an air conditioning tune-up this spring. Here are three reasons to remember air conditioning maintenance this spring. 

Improve Energy Efficiency 

Summer is an exciting time of year. People take time off from work to go on vacation. Kids are out of school, and beaches are open for business. However, the one common complaint among home and business owners during the summer is that air conditioning bills skyrocket. Instead of spending money on summer fun, people waste money on an inefficient air conditioner. 

Spring AC maintenance is the best way to keep cooling bills low over the summer because it improves the unit’s energy efficiency. When technicians perform a professional AC tune-up, they will perform tasks like cleaning the coils, checking the thermostat, and changing air filters. These maintenance tasks will significantly reduce the work needed for an AC system to cool a home or business by making the cooling process more efficient. 

Protect Equipment Reliability 

Proper and regular maintenance of an air conditioner is essential for ensuring that it runs reliably with fewer repairs. Regularly replacing the air filters, cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant levels, and lubricating moving parts are all essential to ensure the AC continues running smoothly. These maintenance tasks help reduce unexpected wear-and-tear on different components of the air conditioner, reducing the chances of a breakdown or that it will need repairs. 

Additionally, regularly scheduled maintenance visits by an experienced HVAC technician can help identify minor problems before they become larger, more expensive repairs. By taking these measures and keeping up with regular maintenance, people can ensure that their AC runs reliably with fewer surprise repairs down the line.

Increase the Life Expectancy of AC Equipment 

Keeping costs low in homes and businesses is vital for protecting the budget. While lower energy bills and fewer repairs from maintenance go a long way towards keeping spending down, routine AC maintenance also prolongs the lifespan of the equipment, preventing the need to pay for an AC replacement early. 

When yearly maintenance is done, home and business owners can expect their heating and cooling equipment to last longer and significantly decrease the likelihood of costly premature failure. Get started this year by scheduling spring air conditioning maintenance with local professionals. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air have served residents in and around Jupiter, FL, since 1988. They provide upfront pricing, same-day service, and 24-hour emergency service. Call them today for air conditioning repair and maintenance services in Jupiter, FL.

Are you looking for an easy and affordable way to make sure your air conditioner runs optimally all summer long? An A/C tune-up may be just what you need. A simple tune-up can help you combat the three most common issues that can occur with air conditioning systems. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top three issues that can be easily addressed with an A/C tune-up and how you can benefit from the process.

1) Higher Energy Bills

One of the most common issues homeowners face when it comes to their A/C units is higher energy bills. This is due to a number of reasons, including an accumulation of dirt, dust, and other debris that can restrict air flow, causing your A/C unit to work harder and consume more energy. Additionally, an old or outdated A/C unit may not be as efficient as a newer model, further increasing your monthly energy bills. Fortunately, this issue can easily be solved with a simple A/C tune-up. A technician can come in and thoroughly clean your A/C unit, removing any dirt, dust, or debris that may be restricting airflow. Additionally, they can inspect the unit for any worn or damaged parts and replace them as needed. This will ensure that your unit is working at peak efficiency and help reduce your energy bills.

2) Poor Air Quality

Poor air quality is a common issue faced by homeowners in the summertime. Not only does it create an uncomfortable environment to be in, but poor air quality can also be linked to various health issues. Fortunately, a simple A/C tune-up can help combat this issue. During a tune-up, a technician will inspect your A/C system for any worn or damaged parts that could be contributing to poor air quality. They’ll also check the air filters to make sure they are working properly. This will help remove dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air and make sure that your air is of the highest quality. Additionally, they’ll check your ductwork for any leaks or cracks, which could also be affecting your air quality. Lastly, they’ll make sure that your refrigerant levels are correct and that there are no leaks. This will help ensure that your A/C is operating efficiently while also ensuring that the air is free of pollutants. By getting an A/C tune-up annually, you can be sure that your air quality is up to par and that your family is breathing healthy air throughout the summer months.

3) Frequent Breakdowns

Are you constantly having to repair your air conditioner? Do you feel like the repairs never seem to be enough? An A/C tune-up is one of the best ways to combat frequent breakdowns. A regular tune-up can help you detect and fix minor problems before they become major ones, saving you money on costly repairs down the line. It’s important to have a qualified technician, like our Elite team, inspect and clean all the components of your air conditioning system, including the condenser, evaporator, compressor, and blower motor. They can also check for leaks and test for proper refrigerant levels. All of this work will help ensure that your A/C unit is running at optimal efficiency and reduce the chances of it breaking down.

Don’t let frequent breakdowns, poor air quality, and higher energy bills leave you without comfort this summer. Our ELITE Team is here to help with all your comfort needs this summer season. Give us a call today, and we’ll make sure your A/C is AWESOME this summer.

Why DIY Heater Repair is a Dangerous Game

Knowing the risks and potential hazards is critical when contemplating DIY heater repair. Individuals attempting to repair their heater without proper knowledge and expertise may cause damage or even serious injury. This blog emphasizes the dangers and other issues caused by DIY heater repair and why it is critical to leave it to professionals.

When Fixing the Wrong Problem Makes Things Worse

Heater repair can be a complicated and potentially dangerous task requiring specialized knowledge and expertise. Professional technicians are trained to quickly and accurately identify and diagnose problems, reducing the risk of costly mistakes or misdiagnoses. Professionals have a thorough understanding of the various systems and components involved in heating systems, unlike amateurs who may lack the necessary training or equipment. They are also well-versed in the most recent diagnostic tools and techniques, allowing them to pinpoint the source of any problems precisely. 

Homeowners can avoid the frustration and potential danger of attempting to repair a heater independently by seeking professional assistance. Furthermore, experienced technicians can ensure the repair is done correctly the first time, saving time and money. Finally, trusting an expert provides invaluable peace of mind, especially regarding the comfort and safety of one’s home.

How Professionals Save Time in Heater Repair

Professional heater repair technicians are well-versed in the various heating systems and the tools required to complete the job quickly. They are trained to work with different types of heating systems and know how to diagnose and repair problems promptly. Professionals also have the necessary tools on hand and know exactly how to use them, unlike DIYers, who may need to research the issue or go out and purchase the required tools. 

Hiring a professional saves time and allows the repair to be completed immediately. Furthermore, professionals understand the significance of proper installation, maintenance, and repair to avoid future problems, which saves even more time and money in the long run. Homeowners who rely on the expertise of a professional can prevent the frustration of a lengthy repair process and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a job well done.

The Costly Consequences of Botched Heater Repairs

Professional contractors are not only knowledgeable about heating system repairs; they are also insured to protect homeowners from mishaps or accidents. As opposed to do-it-yourselfers, professionals have the necessary tools and knowledge to complete the task safely and efficiently. Heater repair can be hazardous, with the risk of electrocution, gas leaks, and even fires. Homeowners who attempt to repair the problem themselves may put themselves in danger, including personal injury or property damage. 

Hiring a professional contractor, on the other hand, can help mitigate these risks and ensure that the job is done safely and correctly. Hiring an insured professional for heater repair not only ensures a safer and more reliable fix but also provides homeowners with peace of mind because they won’t have to worry about the financial consequences of any unexpected accidents or damages.

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has assisted homeowners and business owners in Jupiter, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. They offer upfront pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for heater repair in Jupiter, FL.

Meet David Crosthwait, Alice H. Parker, and Lewis Latimer! 

The home’s heating and cooling system didn’t come out of thin air. It needed inventors’ and engineers’ insight. But who were some of those important innovators? 

This Black History Month, interested readers can meet three icons that are truly some of America’s “hidden figures.” These inventors helped revolutionize the heating and cooling industry, with an impact still felt today. Get ready to meet: 

David Crosthwait 

According to the National Inventors Hall of Fame, David Crosthwait was born in 1898. Although slavery had ended in 1865, it was rare for African-Americans to attend college––much less get jobs in engineering. But that didn’t stop Crosthwait. 

He got his bachelor’s and master’s at Purdue University, finishing his schooling in 1920. Shortly after, Crosthwait got to work inventing. He was extremely active throughout the 1920s and 1930s, focusing primarily on building HVAC systems. He created a vacuum pump, energy-efficient thermostats, and boilers. 

At the time of Crosthwait’s death in 1976, he held 35 U.S. patents and 80 international patents. His inventions are responsible for heating and cooling notable New York City venues, including Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center in New York City. 

Alice H. Parker 

Not a lot is known about Alice H. Parker’s life. In fact, historians aren’t even sure when she passed away. Some suspect that she died in the 1920s in a fire, although this hasn’t been officially confirmed. It seems that after 1919, Parker disappeared from the history books. 

But here’s what experts do know. BlackPast notes that Parker was born in 1895. It’s said that the cold, brutal winters in New Jersey inspired her to experiment with gas furnaces and ductwork. She attended high school through an offshoot of Howard University, where she graduated with honors. 

Then, in 1919, Parker filed a patent for a heating system invention. It drew cool air into the furnace, then went through a heat exchanger that blew warm air throughout the home. Although Parker’s original inventions were never used commercially, future inventors relied on her blueprints for guidance. Her findings allowed engineers to design heating and cooling systems that reduced the likelihood of serious fires. While nobody knows much about Parker’s life after she filed her patent, her innovation lives on, keeping homes warm to this day. 

Lewis Latimer 

Lewis Latimer lived for 80 years––and during that time, he certainly made his mark on the scientific world. He was born in 1848 to enslaved people who ran away, and his early life was very rocky, as his parents feared capture. As a teenager, he joined the U.S. Navy and served for nearly two years. 

Once he left the Navy, he worked at a patent firm. There, he discovered his passion for engineering and, soon after, started inventing. One of his most significant achievements was improving how lightbulbs were manufactured. His findings made carbon filament harder to break. He also worked alongside some big-name inventors, including Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell. 

Another patented invention of Latimers was a forerunner of the air conditioner. His evaporative air conditioner was unique at the time because, besides cooling, it also helped improve indoor air quality by disinfecting the air like more modern air conditioners. Latimer passed away in 1928, and today, history buffs can visit his home in Flushing, Queens, NY. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air

With more than 30 years of experience, Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air is who to call when homeowners want work done right the first time. They offer 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and on-time arrival. Call them today for indoor air quality, AC, or heating services in Jupiter, FL.