Employee Spotlight: Norma Norton

Norma Norton is an essential part of the team at H & H Mechanical. For a long time, “Norma was the “&” in H & H Mechanical” and has probably spoken to each one of our customers and vendors at least once. She is here rain or shine and genuinely cares for everyone she meets. H & H Mechanical would not be the company it is today without her, and I could not think of anyone better suited to be the subject of our very 1st Employee Spotlight.

How long have you been with the company?

30 Years this July

What does your job entail?

When I first came to H & H Mechanical, it was to answer the phones for 2 weeks and here I am 30 years later! Over the 30 years, I have handled every aspect of the HVAC industry. My customers have always been my biggest concern, as in making sure we can get them on the schedule and then make all of them happy campers. Without excellent customer service, you will not be able to grow your business. Nine years ago, the business had grown so much, that I got an assistant to do the dispatch. All the owners I have worked for the in the 30 years have become family to me. HVAC is a great industry to make a career, it is interesting and challenging, but there will always be a demand for people to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. I am always making sure the employees are doing good. I like to recognize each person’s birthday or work anniversary. It is a good feeling to be treated with respect and care.

Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?

When I went to work for H & H Mechanical, they were so good to me that I knew this would be a great place to make a career. I could not have asked for a better group of people to work for and with.

What’s the best advice you can give someone who just started their career?

Always ask questions if you don’t know something. It is better to learn all you can, and the sooner, the better. A lot of the things you learn will not come from a book or computer, but from on-the-job training!

What are the toughest challenges you have had at work?

When I started in the work world many years ago, we took dictation with shorthand, and then we used Dictaphones, we also didn’t have computers. I have seen a lot of changes in the world, and it is exciting to see how far the work industry has come with computers and all the extras. Now we can push a button on a computer and the world opens up.

What’s your secret talent no one knows about?

I care about people and I want to help anybody that needs some assistance. I have never been one to think I am better than anybody. Furthermore, I receive more happiness in helping somebody than just looking the other way. If I won the lottery, I would spend it on other people. I am also a “diva” when it comes to fashion, and I am trying to convince my five sisters to have a dress up day! So far, they have all said no.

When you are at work, how do you motivate yourself?

I have worked for so long, it is just second nature. I know what has to be done, so I just tell myself “Let’s get this done” and I handle it. My husband tells me I am like an army drill sergeant.

Describe some of the challenges you have faced at this company. How did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge for me has been learning to throw away the paperwork after scanning it. I have held on to the paperwork like it is a trophy that we can not throw away! I have truly saved a few trees over the last couple of years working here. One other thing that has been a challenge for me has been the commute, I drive 1 hour each way. Anybody that drives on I-20 knows what I am talking about, and working at H & H Mechanical has made the commute worth the hassle. I see people on I-20 that I have been seeing for years. So, if you have been on I-20 in the last 30 years, I have probably seen you in traffic!

Who are some of your biggest inspirations within the company?

I have worked with some great owners and bosses over the years. I feel like we are just one big family that gathers every day and we challenge each other to do the best possible job. I have so much respect and admiration for each one of these people in my life.

How have you grown professionally while on our team?

My self-confidence has grown so much during my 30 years tenue at H & H Mechanical. I have learned not only about HVAC, but life in general. I owe so much for being able to work for people who genuinely care about you as a person and employee.

Tell me something about you that most people don’t know.

“I am a grass cutting fool, it’s my therapy”

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Is Ductwork Included?

By Loren Crabtree • March 25, 2025

Why You Might Not Change the Ductwork When Replacing Your HVAC System When it comes time to replace your HVAC system, a question that frequently arises is whether the existing ductwork also needs to be replaced. Surprisingly, the answer isn't always a resounding yes. While it might seem logical to overhaul everything at once for efficiency's sake, several compelling reasons might sway your decision to retain the existing ductwork. Here's why: 1. Condition of Existing Ductwork The primary consideration is the condition of your current ductwork. If it's in good shape, free from leaks, and not showing signs of significant wear like corrosion or damage, it can often remain in place. Quality ductwork can last decades if properly installed and maintained, meaning it might outlast an HVAC unit itself. 2. Cost Efficiency Replacing ductwork is an extensive and sometimes invasive process that can significantly add to the overall cost of HVAC system replacement. If the current ductwork is still functional and efficient, keeping it can save you a substantial amount of money and time. It's all about balancing the cost versus benefits, and if the ductwork isn't contributing to energy loss or performance issues, the expenditure might not be justified. 3. Compatibility and Sizing In many cases, the existing ductwork is perfectly compatible with the new HVAC unit. Proper sizing is critical for the efficiency of the HVAC system — if the ducts were correctly sized for the old unit, and the new unit is of a similar size and capacity, there's often no need for adjustment. However, significant changes in the size or type of HVAC system could warrant a reassessment and potential replacement of the ductwork. 4. Minimal Performance Gains The performance boost from replacing ductwork might not be as significant as expected, particularly if your existing ducts are in good condition. The efficiency and functionality of your HVAC system depend largely on the unit itself, proper installation, and regular maintenance. While new ductwork can offer improvements, especially if the old system had issues, the marginal gains might not always justify the cost for systems already operating efficiently. 5. Environmental Considerations Retaining existing ductwork can also be a more environmentally friendly option. By not replacing the ducts, you're reducing waste and the demand for new materials. This approach aligns with the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling, contributing to a lower environmental impact. Final Thoughts Deciding not to replace the ductwork during an HVAC system upgrade isn't about cutting corners; it's about making an informed choice based on the condition, compatibility, and the potential cost and environmental impact. However, it's crucial to have your current system evaluated by a professional to ensure that keeping the existing ductwork is the best decision for your home's comfort and efficiency. Regular inspections and maintenance will keep your HVAC system, and its ductwork running smoothly for years to come, ensuring that when the time for replacement comes, you'll be ready to make the best choice for your home.

What to Look for in a Heating and Air Company Near You

By Loren Crabtree • March 11, 2025

What to Look for in a Heating and Air Company Near Me

Why does my air conditioner run in the winter?

By Loren Crabtree • February 25, 2025

Why Does My Air Conditioner Run in the Winter? Discovering that your air conditioner is running during the colder months can be a surprising and confusing experience. However, there are legitimate reasons for this occurrence, some of which are by design and others that might indicate a need for maintenance. Understanding why this happens can ease your concerns and help ensure that your HVAC system is functioning as efficiently as possible, even when the mercury drops. 1. Heat Pump Operation The most common reason your air conditioner seems to be active in winter is if you have a heat pump system. Heat pumps are designed to cool your home in the summer and heat it in the winter, using the outdoor unit in both operations. In heating mode, the system reverses the flow of refrigerant, extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it indoors. So, if your "air conditioner" is running in the winter, it's likely that it's actually your heat pump operating in its heating mode. 2. Defrost Mode In winter, the outdoor unit of a heat pump can accumulate frost, which reduces its efficiency in heating mode. To combat this, heat pumps are equipped with a defrost cycle. During this cycle, it may appear that your air conditioning is running since the system temporarily reverses back to cooling mode to generate warm air to melt the frost on the outdoor unit. This is a normal and necessary function of a heat pump in colder weather. 3. Thermostat Settings Occasionally, the reason your air conditioning runs in winter could be due to incorrect thermostat settings. If your thermostat is set to "cool" instead of "heat" or "auto," your air conditioning system will activate, regardless of the outside temperature. This is a simple fix but one that can significantly affect comfort and energy bills. 4. Integrated HVAC Systems Some modern HVAC systems integrate both air conditioning and heating into a single unit, sharing interior components like air handlers and ductwork. In these systems, even when in heating mode, parts of your air conditioning system may still operate to circulate air throughout your home. This doesn’t necessarily mean the cooling function is active, but rather that the system uses the blower to distribute warm air. 5. Malfunction or System Error If none of the above reasons apply, your AC running in winter could suggest a malfunction. This could be due to a variety of issues like a faulty thermostat, a stuck reversing valve (in heat pumps), or incorrect wiring. In such cases, it's essential to contact an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the problem to prevent potential damage or inefficiency. Understanding and Addressing the Issue Noticing your air conditioner running in winter isn’t always cause for immediate concern. Identifying the reason is the first step towards ensuring your system's efficiency and your home's comfort. Regular maintenance and familiarizing yourself with your HVAC system can help mitigate unexpected surprises and ensure that your system serves you well, regardless of the season. If in doubt, consulting with an HVAC professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.