Author Archive for Jessica Joyce

Register for Richmond SPCA’s 22nd Dog Jog – 3.23.24

Richmond SPCA's 22nd Annual Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party

Block Party has been Reschedule for Sunday - 3.24.24

As this event is RAIN OR SHINE, The Richmond SPCA has decided, after carefully monitoring the weather forecast, to reschedule the Block Party, Marketplace, and Little Paws Fun Run to Sunday, March 24th from noon to 5 PM. This event is free to attend. Please note, all proceeds aid in the Richmond SPCA’s efforts to rescue and rehabilitate homeless animals and to deliver programs to both pets and people who love them!    

Richmond SPCA's 22nd Annual Dog Jog & 5K

10 AM
5K
5K

The day begins with a chip-timed 5K - 3.1 mile

11:30 AM
Dog Jog
Dog Jog

Secondly, there is a leisurely 1-mile Dog Jog.

The community is invited to join in on the family-and-pet-friendly fun at the Richmond SPCA’s 22th Annual Dog Jog and 5K Run, happening in-person Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Richmond SPCA, Robins-Starr Humane Center, 2519 Hermitage Rd.

James River Air Conditioning is a proud sponsor of the 22nd Annual Dog Jog and 5K, benefiting nearly 4,000 homeless animals in the Richmond SPCA’s care each year.

James River Air has been a long-time supporter of the Richmond SPCA and the critical care the nonprofit provides for our furry, four-legged friends. In addition to saving the lives of hundreds of homeless dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies each year and adopting them into lasting, loving homes, the Richmond SPCA provides extensive veterinary medical treatment and behavioral rehabilitation to dogs and cats in their shelter and operates the community’s first and only full-service, low-cost veterinary hospital for the pets of people of modest means, among numerous other life-saving programs and services.

Along with the return of the Richmond SPCA’s in-person Dog Jog & 5K Run, and in 2021 and 2022, the event raised more than $156,000 to benefit the Richmond SPCA’s work in the community. Help us top that number this year by donating now, buy a raffle ticket, or starting a fundraiser! 

Please visit Richmond SPCA’s website for more details.

Event Countdown!

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Cool Relief – Air Conditioner: HSA Eligibility

Cool Relief - Air Conditioner: HSA Eligibility

We have some exiting news for those who may not be aware of a unique benefit related to air conditioning—reimbursements through your Health Savings Account (HSA). Yep, you heard that right! In some circumstances, you may be eligible for this reimbursement by leveraging a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). Continue reading to discover how your air conditioning expenses may qualify for this unexpected advantage.

Understanding Eligibility

According to Treasury Regulation ‘1.213-1(e)(1)(iii), Private Letter Ruling 8009080, air conditioning reimbursement can be possible with a Health Savings Account (HAS), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA), given the submission of a Letter of Medical Necessity. It is crucial to note that reimbursement is not applicable for limited-purpose flexible spending accounts (LPFSA) or dependent care flexible spending accounts (DCFSA). The key is understanding when air conditioning becomes more than a cooling solution – it becomes a medical necessity.

To quality for reimbursement, the primary purpose of your air conditioner must be to treat or alleviate a medical condition. A Letter of Medical Necessity is required to show that the expense is primarily used for medical care. For more personalized information, we recommend speaking with your FSA, HAS, or HRA benefits administrator.

Click the button below to find more information about Letters of Medical Necessity on GoodRX Health. 

How Air Conditioning Can Impact Health

Air conditioning is not just about creating a comfortable indoor environment; it can also contribute to improved health conditions. While not explicitly designed as a medical device, air conditioners with air purification accessories can filter out allergens and particles, offering relief to those with respiratory issues. The IRS recognizes these potential health benefits and allows individuals to cover the cost of their air conditioner under specific conditions.

Air conditioners can be a game-changer for individuals dealing with allergies or respiratory illnesses. If you believe your air conditioning expenses align with these criteria, explore the possibility of reimbursements with your benefit administrator.

At James River Air, we understand the importance of not only providing top-notch home comfort solutions but also ensuring our valued clients are aware of potential benefits they may be entitled to. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our team. We’d be happy to help!

HVAC System Replacement Cost

Interested in Upgrading your Home Comfort System?

Call the Professionals at James River Air.

HVAC System Replacement Cost

One of the most common questions we get related to heating and cooling systems is, “how much does it cost to replace an HVAC system?

While it would be relatively easy to provide a quick price range based on a wide variety of factors, we’ll outline here many of the factors that contribute to HVAC system cost so you’ll have a better idea of how much your replacement HVAC system may cost.

James River Select, Ultra & Prodigy HVAC Systems

To simplify some of the HVAC choices, which also drive cost, we categorize our HVAC systems into three groups:

James River Select

Most economical. The most advanced of the basic HVAC systems presenting lower cost. Excellent value with strong efficiency with features that don't compromise comfort. A two-speed system that can run at low speed in milder conditions, saving electricity and a minimum 15 SEER2 efficiency rating.

James River Ultra

Most Popular. Upper Mid-tier of HVAC replacement systems with variable capacity automatically adjusting to match your homes demand. The Horizontal discharge outdoor unit is extremely small and unbelievably quiet. Expect efficiency ratings of 15-18 SEER2.

James River Prodigy

Superior. The best and most efficient. You can expect these systems to have variable capacity automatically adjusting to your homes comfort requirements. These units have a maximum of 24 SEER2 efficiency rating. The epitome of design with maximum rebates.

HVAC System Types

There are a few different types of heating and cooling systems with the most common being heat pump + electric, or air conditioning with natural gas, or propane furnaces.

When it comes to evaluating the replacement cost, there is minimal difference among these common types. Alternative types such as gas or oil-fired boilers or geothermal systems are considerably more expensive.

Looking for an Online System Price?

Answer a few quick questions.

Get an instant on-screen system price and schedule a free in-home consultation.

System Size vs. Cost

Ensuring the right size for your HVAC unit is crucial for optimal performance in your home. Factors like cooling requirements, influenced by your home’s age, insulation quality and the amount of windows, dictate the system size and associated costs.

System sizes are often measured in tons, representing cooling capacity (1 ton = 12,000 BTU). Your home may also have multiple zones, which means a separate HVAC system for different parts of your home. 

*The prices in the chart above include equipment only and excludes labor, materials, permits or any other modifications. See below for more details about labor & installation costs.

Installation Variables

When assessing HVAC costs, it’s essential to recognize that equipment expenses are just one aspect. Estimating HVAC system costs is challenging due to the multitude of factors involved in installation. Here are key considerations for your installation quote:

Questions Regarding HVAC Replacement Costs?

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION.

One of our HVAC professionals will evaluate your home’s specific HVAC needs.

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At James River Air, we’re experts in heating and cooling systems. First and foremost, we want to make sure you’re comfortable in your home year-round. Having a heating and cooling system that is designed and installed properly is critical for year-round comfort. The age and construction of your home will factor into the size and type of HVAC system that will provide optimum comfort.

Upgrades to Consider

Your existing system may already have some of these upgrades, and you may choose to keep, eliminate or add any of these options during your system replacement.

Humidification

During the winter months the humidity is generally lower and your heating system can contribute even further to dry indoor air. Having proper humidity levels in your home lead to comfort and can even save you money. Indoor humidity makes the air feel warmer so you may be able to lower your thermostat 1-2 degrees. Prices for humidification systems range from $900 to $3000.

Whole-Home Air Purification

Specialty filters can purify air to eliminate pollution, allergens, and in some cases even harmful viruses or bacteria. Ask one of our experts about options for whole-home air purification. Prices for whole-home air purification range from $500 to $1200.

Dehumidification

While air conditioning systems provide some level of dehumidification, our hot and humid summers put a lot of pressure on an air conditioning system. An added dehumidification system will help your air conditioner run more effectively by reducing the humidity level in your home. Prices for dehumidification systems range from $2800-$5200.

For Service in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area - click or call to schedule your free in-home consultation.

Benefits of Regular HVAC Maintenance

Here at James River Air Conditioning, we believe regular HVAC maintenance is especially important for the longevity and safety of your home comfort system(s)! Routine check-ups can save you money in the long run. Here are James River Air’s top 5 benefits of regular HVAC maintenance: 

Improved Energy Efficiency

Maintaining regular maintenance on your HVAC system can help it operate more efficiently in several ways. Cleaning and replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, checking refrigerate levels, and cleaning the coils are a few ways our professional technicians can help to ensure your system is running as efficiently as possible.

Longer Lifespan

By keeping your HVAC system well-maintained, you can help extend its lifespan. The average life expectancy of a heat pump is about 10-15 years. Routine maintenance will help prevent wear and tear. Over time parts of your system can become worn down due to normal usage. Regular maintenance will help catch and address these issues before it could become a major problem.

Improved Air Quality

A well-maintained system circulates air throughout the building, which helps to remove stagnant air that can harbor pollutants. A well-maintained HVAC system ensures proper ventilation and air circulation, improving overall air quality. Additionally, HVAC systems can regulate indoor humidity levels in your home. This helps prevent growth of mold and mildew. Maintaining proper humidity levels always helps contribute to reducing the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria.

Fewer Breakdowns

With regular HVAC maintenance, you will experience fewer breakdowns! Our professional technicians can help catch the small problems before they turn into serious issues or replacements. During our routine maintenance visits, our technicians inspect all aspects of your unit. They could find worn-out or faulty parts that could potentially cause issues in the future.

Lower Utility Bills

Did you know a well-maintained system can help lower your utility bills? Well, it can! A clean and functioning system means your system will not have to work has hard to heat or cool your home. The easiest and most effective way to help lower your utility bills are to change your filters! A dirty or clogged HVAC filter will reduce the lifespan of your system and increase your utility bills.

Overall, routine HVAC maintenance is a small investment that will pay off in a big way. It will help save you money in the long run, improve your comfort and air quality, prevent breakdowns, and increase the lifespan of your unit. Call James River Air today or book online to schedule or sign up for our Preventive Maintenance program and save 30% on future repairs! 804-358-9333.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Your Home Comfort System – 5 Tips to Show Your HVAC System Love

As your home comfort system, I’ve worked extremely hard this past winter to ensure you, my homeowner, is warm and comfortable. I can not wait for Spring so I can get a break! Before Summer rolls around and I need to keep you cool and comfortable.

If you’re wondering how you can show your home comfort system love on this Valentine’s Day, here are my top 5 tips. A happy home comfort system = a happy and comfortable homeowner.

Change My Filters!

Nobody wants to breathe dirty, dusty air. Not even me! It makes it harder for me to pump air. Not to mention the air I'm putting out is dirty!

Clean Me!

One of the hardest things for me to do is work efficiently while being covered in grime, dust, leaves, etc. Sometimes critters can create habitats in my area. Gross! Build up around my unit can create less airflow which makes it harder for me to work! Though you and I both don’t like it, I have to use more electricity to be efficient which raises your electricity bill! Sorry ☹ I know we both don’t want this, so it’s a good idea to check outside of my unit to make sure everything is clean and running smoothly.

Install an Air Purification System

Before we all start suffering from allergies, install an air purification system. With this installed, I can help get rid of any allergens, germs or mold that is in the air.

Keep Your Vents Open

An easy way to show me love today is by keeping the vents open your house. Even in unused rooms! When you close your vents, it’s messed with my balance and pressure. It’s making it harder for me to heat your home.

Schedule Annual Preventive Maintenance

To truly ensure your home comfort system is working at peak efficiency, call the professionals at James River Air. 804-358-9333. Our expert technicians will ensure your system is ready to keep you and your home warm and comfortable!

Mission Tomorrow 10.26.22 – 10.27.22

RICHMOND, Va. (JRAC) – October 26 – 27th, James River Air Conditioning had the opportunity to sponsor and participate in Mission Tomorrow presented by the ChamberRVA in partnership with Junior Achievement of Central Virginia. 

“Eight grade is such a critical year for students as they are deciding on coursework pathways for their high school years and beyond.” ChamberRVA says about the event. 

Mission Tomorrow is an event where every Richmond area 8th grader is bused to the RIR Raceway Complex to learn about the trades – HVAC, Electrical, Medical, Public, Safety, Heavy Equipment, etc., 

A team from James River Air was able to work our booth, meet the kids, and share great opportunities for joining the trades. The 8th graders were a great bunch, and it was very gratifying to share information about our business in a fun, interactive, interesting setting to over 7,000 Richmond area students. 

Technician Job Fair – Saturday, April 2, 2022

HVAC Technician / Plumber / Electrician Job Fair

When: Saturday, May 14, 2022

Time: 11 AM – 2 PM

Where: 1905 Westmoreland Street. Richmond, VA. 23230

BEST BENEFITS. BEST PAY. BEST LIFE.

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Our team has numerous openings for new associates in the skilled trades, including HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical. To meet increasing demand for workers, we are hosting a job fair to connect area job-seekers with quickly growing career options within these infrastructure-critical fields.

Among the benefits being offered to new hires by James River Air:

  • Paid training and education for all new associates
  • Excellent income potential and benefits, including health, dental, vision, paid time off, 401k, short – and long-term disability, and much more.
  • Skilled trade roles are in high demand across the country and are a rewarding career path.

According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, the HVAC service market is growing — it’s predicted to “create 13% more HVAC mechanic and installer jobs from 2018 – 2028.”

Newly-inaugurated Governor Youngkin has pledged that reinvigorating job growth, developing talent, and training workers would be part of his policy initiatives. James River Air is doing its part to support workforce development by promoting training and career opportunities in these fast-growing sectors.

Earth Day Tips – 4.22.22

Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection, restore damaged ecosystems, and to live a more sustainable life. In honor of Earth Day, James River Air Conditioning would like to share a few tips on how you can reduce your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions through small improvements to your HVAC system. 

4 Tips to make your HVAC system more eco-friendly:

  • Change your filters – When was the last time you changed your air filters? If it’s been a month or more, we recommend checking them. You should change your filters every three months.
  • Clean debris, grass, and leaves from around the outdoor unit to ensure you are not restricting airflow. 
  • Inspect your ductwork – If you find any leaks in your ductwork, seal them off. Leaky duct work can be very problematic for HVAC efficiency. 
  • Inspect the insulation in your attic – If you have not checked your attic insultation, it is a great time to check and evaluate if your attic insulation is air-sealed. Without attic insulation, you cannot save money or energy.

These 4 tips are perfect for participating in Earth Day. Not only are these small changes better for our environment, but they can also help reduce your energy bills. While these Earth Day solutions are simple DIY tasks you can complete yourself, your system might require a more professional touch. Please call us today to schedule your spring HVAC tune-up or click the button below!

James River Air Gives Back: Register for the Richmond’s SPCA’s 20th Annual Dog Jog & 5K Run – 3.26.22

Richmond SPCA's 20th Annual Dog Job and 5k Run

The community is invited to join in on the family-and-pet-friendly fun at the Richmond SPCA’s 20th Annual Dog Jog and 5K Run, happening in-person Saturday, March 26, 2022, at the Richmond SPCA, Robins-Starr Humane Center, 2519 Hermitage Rd.

James River Air Conditioning is a proud sponsor of the 20th Annual Dog Jog and 5K, benefiting nearly 4,000 homeless animals in the Richmond SPCA’s care each year.

James River Air has been a long-time supporter of the Richmond SPCA and the critical care the nonprofit provides for our furry, four-legged friends. In addition to saving the lives of hundreds of homeless dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies each year and adopting them into lasting, loving homes, the Richmond SPCA provides extensive veterinary medical treatment and behavioral rehabilitation to dogs and cats in their shelter and operates the community’s first and only full-service, low-cost veterinary hospital for the pets of people of modest means, among numerous other life-saving programs and services.

Along with the return of the Richmond SPCA’s in-person Dog Jog & 5K Run, and in 2021, the event raised more than $156,000 to benefit the Richmond SPCA’s work in the community. Help us top that number this year by donating now, buy a raffle ticket, or starting a fundraiser! 

Please visit Richmond SPCA’s website for more details (Event hashtag: #DogJog)

Top Warning Signs Your Crawl Space Is Impairing Indoor Air Quality & Energy Efficiency

Is Your Crawl Space Impairing Indoor Air Quality & Energy Efficiency?

Do you notice any of the following unusual sights or smells emanating from your home’s crawl space? (i.e. the narrow, unfinished area that resides under the base of your house)

  • A gross, musty odor
  • Humid air, discolored walls, or standing water
  • Condensation
  • Foundation cracks or rotted wood
  • Feeling a draft or noticed sagging in the floors
  • Pest (ants, spiders, beetles, etc.) or rodent (mice, rats, snakes, etc.) infestation

If you notice any of the above unusual sights or smells, these are all warning signs your crawl space may be compromised. 

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As we head into the damp spring season, and as more homes change hands in a fast-moving housing market, James River Air Conditioning, has advice on how to secure your crawl space – whether you’ve been in your home for years, or you have a new-to-you home. Many homeowners likely never think about the crawl space, but it can be a major contributor to poor air quality and overall home energy efficiency. Nearly 50% of the air you breathe in your home originates from your crawl space. 

The crawl space is the home’s foundation. It’s where electrical conduit, water lines, and other utilities are housed. Traditional crawl spaces are a leading source of high humidity, and thus, mold, and microbiological growth, which causes poor air quality and can be linked to asthma, allergies, and other health issues. On the energy side, homeowners can reduce energy bills by up to 15% by controlling air leakage in crawl spaces, allowing HVAC systems and ducts to perform more efficiency.

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So what can homeowners do to secure their crawl space?

Protecting, cleaning, and sealing the crawl space, and adding vapor barriers and dehumidifiers are a home’s best defense. The benefits of vapor barriers and dehumidifiers in crawl spaces include:

  • Improved air quality
  • Eliminates insect and pest infestation
  • Increased healthy living conditions
  • Prevents mold, mildew and rot issues
  • Hinders structural damage
  • Increased energy efficiency

Homeowners can schedule a FREE inspection of their homes crawl space with James River Air by calling 1-800-COMFORT or click the link below to set up your free inspection. Visit James River Air’s Blog for more tips for saving energy on your HVAC system!

 

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