Plumbing-Heating-Cooling
Industry News
June 17, 2013
INDUSTRY INFORMATION TO USE
Each of us receive way too many emails every day.  In an effort to be of service --  without adding significantly  to your inbox -- the Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals of Virginia/
Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors is offering a news digest of items that you may find useful.  These items are provided pretty much as they were  received.  If this information is not of interest, simply follow the steps to unsubscribe at the bottom.  Likewise, feel free to forward this to others.
  
Upcoming PMPV Meetings
Organizational membership is a great way to keep current on industry knowledge and access member-specific benefits.  However, involvement is essential to get the most of your membership.  Consider a typical gym membership...how valuable is it if you don't use it?  Visit the PMPV/PHCC website to find out about meetings, mentoring and advising panels and educational offerings.  If you have information that would be of value to members, you can also submit content by clicking here. 
 CPR  

New CPR Technique is Easier and More Effective

A revised version of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is both easier to perform and offers better results for the victim, according to University of  Arizona College of Medicine physicians.  The new technique is not as intimidating since it does not involve clearing the airway or assisted breathing.  It is simply rapid compressions (100/minute).  Plus, not training or certification is necessary.

 

This link will take you to the video.

 

Social Media Step-by-Step

If getting involved with social media has you stymied, here is an interesting step-by-step plan for optimizing your profile.  Click here for the article from Career and Business.
 
If you are already active in the social media realm, use one of the widgets below to connect with the Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals of Virginia/Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors.
 
Like us on FacebookView our profile on LinkedIn
Important Information About R-22a

PHCC National recently shared information about the phase-out of the refrigerant R-22, and the fact that dangerous replacements are surfacing.  Steer clear of purchasing highly flammable products sold that are listed in a form of 22a Refrigerant, as the gas can burn or even explode when in contact with an ignition source.

 

There is great concern over the flammability of these products, when used as a refrigerant in air conditioning equipment.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) that maintains lists of acceptable refrigerants in listed applications.  EPA has issued some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) regarding these R-22a products.

Click here to review the EPA's frequently asked questions.

 

These products could pose significant safety risks to homeowners and technicians.  Unknowing homeowners who have used this product may have created an exposure to fire or explosion should a leak be present in the home.  Technicians that have not been informed of the use of these products face similar risks in that their service equipment is not designed for these products.  Inadvertent mixing of recovered gases may contaminate a contractor's bulk recovery cylinder forcing disposal of the product in place of reclaiming.

 

There are many approved replacement refrigerants being marketed today; contractors should carefully consider the products they wish to use.  For a list of EPA approved alternate refrigerants for residential air conditioning, click here. 

 

Remember, it is illegal for anyone to intentionally mix refrigerants in equipment or to intentionally vent refrigerant to the atmosphere. Use alternate refrigerants wisely; do not top off a system with an alternate refrigerant.