I work for a local AC repair company.
Most of the time I work on repairs, but every once in a while I will perform an installation.
Installation jobs happen much less frequently, because people prefer to repair their system instead of replacing it. HVAC systems can be extremely expensive, especially if they are energy efficient. It makes more sense to repair the problems instead of replacing the system every couple of years. This week I went to help an older lady with a thermostat problem. Her kids bought her a programmable thermostat and they even installed the machine. Unfortunately, they did not install the thermostat properly and the lady couldn’t control the heat or the air conditioner with the machine. I figured some of the wires were probably crossed and I didn’t think the job would take a long time. When I arrived on the front porch, I recognized the name of the customer. It was my math teacher from elementary school. I didn’t recognize the last name on the ticket until I saw the whole name on the mailbox. When she opened the door, she immediately recognized me too. We had a nice hug and a minute or two or catching up. The thermostat wires were crossed and the short repair only took about ten minutes. I didn’t charge her for the repair, but I did take some fresh cookies to go. My boss totally understood when I told him about the lady. He didn’t mind that I gave her a free helping hand. That’s one reason why I like my boss. He is a really great guy.