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Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Blog

How to Get a Career in the HVAC Industry

How to Get a Career in the HVAC Industry

If you’re interested in becoming an HVAC technician, you already know it’s a more specialized field than construction or other home and business service industries. But do you know exactly what the job entails and what you’ll need to get started? If not, you’re in...

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Learning More About Performance-Based Pay

Learning More About Performance-Based Pay

The Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning team is always looking for ways to improve the lives of our customers and our employees. That’s why we’re proud to offer a new payment system for our team members that can help them excel in their positions – and...

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New Refrigerant Changes for the HVAC Industry

New Refrigerant Changes for the HVAC Industry

In recent years, the HVAC industry has evolved as new changes and regulations continue to roll out nationwide. Starting in January of 2023 with a final change date of 2025, a new refrigerant will be required in every air conditioner manufactured across the country....

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The 2021 Bryant True Heroes Award Winner

The 2021 Bryant True Heroes Award Winner

    In 2021, Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning took part in the Bryant True Heroes Award ceremony by presenting the award to Aviation Electronic Technician First Class John Burke. AT1 Burke is a local sailor stationed in Naval Station Mayport...

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What You Need to Know About SEER and SEER2

What You Need to Know About SEER and SEER2

Next year, new government regulations are primed to impact home air conditioning systems around the country. These regulations focus entirely on the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems and which systems homeowners can install on their properties.   Most...

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2021 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2021 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2021 Bryant True Hero Winner   Aviation Electronic Technician First Class (AT1) John Burke, a local sailor stationed in Naval Station Mayport, was announced as the Jacksonville, FL 2021 Bryant True Hero Award Winner before the Triple-A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp...

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Warning Signs I Need a New Capacitor

Warning Signs I Need a New Capacitor

  What are the Warning Signs I Need a New Capacitor? HVAC systems can be quite complex. Regardless of the type of system you have, there are many moving parts that must be perfectly in sync for the whole thing to function properly. There’s no doubt that a...

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2020 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2020 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2020 Bryant True Heroes Winner Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning is proud to announce Trina Middleton as the winner of the 2020 Bryant True Heroes award. Jacksonville Beach, FL resident Trina Middleton was honored...

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Five Most Common Reasons for A/C Breakdowns

Five Most Common Reasons for A/C Breakdowns

Air conditioning is essential for residents of hot and sunny Florida. If you notice your system doesn't cool your home as well as it should or it simply stops working, you're likely contending with one of these five common reasons for A/C breakdowns. Poor Wiring If...

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Common air conditioner problems

Common air conditioner problems

  Just like any electronic device, air conditioners need regular care and maintenance to work properly. However, in reality, not all air conditioners receive this kind of care. What can happen is that you're in an area with unbearable heat and humidity, and all...

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Tips for maintaining air ducts and ventilation

Tips for maintaining air ducts and ventilation

Problems with air ducts and ventilation have long been linked to everything from respiratory problems to energy inefficiency. This goes for ventilation systems in both homes and corporate spaces. While keeping them clean and working properly is important, it can still...

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Landlord or Tenant-Who’s Responsible

Landlord or Tenant-Who’s Responsible

Landlord or Tenant: Who’s Responsible for HVAC Service and Maintenance Needs? Tenants want to live in a home that’s attractive and comfortable. That’s cool in the summer and warm in the winter. But who exactly is responsible for HVAC service and maintenance? Is it you...

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Currently Installed Ductwork

Currently Installed Ductwork

Can the Currently Installed Ductwork be Used with a Newly Installed AC Unit? On structures with central heating and air conditioning, ductwork is usually installed above the ceiling or beneath the floors. Ductwork is what moves...

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What Fulfills Us

What Fulfills Us

What Fulfills Us Charlie’s Tropic Heating and Air Conditioning is all about family. From our staff to our customers, if you’re not a member of Charlie’s family, he will always treat you like one. Speaking of family, one member of our team is definitely no exception....

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Brands Offered

Brands Offered

What Brands Do You Offer & Why Do You Prefer Them?   It’s always been our mission to assist the people in our community in every way possible. At Charlie’s Tropic Heating and Air Conditioning, we will install, service and repair HVAC systems from every...

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Unit Capacity

Unit Capacity

What Size or Capacity System do I Need to Properly Cool my Home? In Florida, having a properly functioning HVAC system isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Floridians experience warm weather for most of the year, with summertime temperatures reaching into the 100’s. When...

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Why is there Ice on my Air Conditioner

Why is there Ice on my Air Conditioner

Why is There Ice on My Air Conditioner? There are quite a few issues that can arise within an air conditioning unit. One common problem we come across is the build up of ice on the pipes leading into the air handler. Unfortunately, a few things can cause this. To...

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What Frees Us!

What Frees Us!

What Frees Us Working in the HVAC industry is no easy profession. The team at Charlie’s Tropic Heating and Air Conditioning works vigorously to ensure the satisfaction of every customer. When you work hard, it’s important to destress and clear your mind so you can...

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What Entertains Us

What Entertains Us

What Entertains Us Finding what makes you happy is truly what life is all about. For one of our employees, she found something she enjoys with an avid passion at a pretty young age. Beth Reagan-Colby, our customer relations manager, is the quintessential people...

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Water Leaking

Water Leaking

Why Do I Have Water Leaking from My Air Handler? Water leaking from your indoor air conditioner is never a good sign. It usually means something isn’t operating properly. On a properly functioning unit, all water should be draining outdoors. A/C units come with...

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Why is my Air Conditioning not Blowing Cold Air?

Why is my Air Conditioning not Blowing Cold Air?

Why is my Air Conditioning not Blowing Cold Air? There are many possibilities as to why your air conditioning isn’t blowing out cold air. The first thing you should check is your indoor coil. The air filter is attached to the coil. Hopefully you’re familiar with it,...

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2019 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2019 Bryant True Heroes Winner

2019 Bryant True Heroes Winner Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning is proud to announce Lillie Bailey as the winner of the 2019 Bryant True Heroes award. Jacksonville, FL resident Lillie Bailey was honored with a 2019 Bryant True Heroes Award on Thursday,...

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AC Keeps Running

AC Keeps Running

What Do I Do if My AC Unit Keeps Running & Won’t Shut Off? A constantly-running air conditioning unit isn’t good. It’s usually a sign of something more serious going on with your system. Besides increasing your electric bill, it can do severe damage to the entire...

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What Ignites Us

What Ignites Us

What Ignites Us Having passion is important. It’s something we look for in every employee at Charlie’s Tropic. Along with a passion for the HVAC industry, finding fulfillment in other areas of life is necessary too. When thinking about people in the HVAC industry,...

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Air Conditioning Installation

Air Conditioning Installation

Air Conditioning Installation A properly working HVAC system in Florida isn’t just important, it’s a necessity. It may be time to replace your HVAC unit if it’s begun to show signs of aging or has stopped working altogether. The installation professionals at Charlie’s...

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What Moves Us

What Moves Us

What Moves US Charlie’s Tropic Heating and AC would not be possible without those working on the frontline in the community. With such a large team of service professionals, there must be someone at the reigns making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible....

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Preventative Maintenance

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative Maintenance As a home or business owner, caring for your property and those inside of it is always a top priority. At Charlie’s Tropic Heating and AC, preventative maintenance is something we encourage for all our customers. Taking the steps to routinely...

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What Inspires Us

What Inspires Us

What Inspires Us Service plays a huge role at Charlie’s Tropic Heating and AC. Across the board, providing excellent service from start to finish and beyond is our goal. There’s no better example of the level of service we provide than by looking at our service...

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Customer Service

Customer Service

Customer Service Excellent customer service is the backbone of Charlie’s Tropic. When Charlie started his business, he desired to focus just as much of his efforts on customer service as he did on providing great HVAC service. As a locally owned and operated business,...

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What Drives Us

What Drives Us

  Meet Chris Johnson Charlie’s Tropic would not be possible without the many hardworking men and women who come to work with us every day. One of the people who helps keep our wheels turning is Chris Johnson our comfort specialist. The role of our comfort...

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Air Conditioning Service & Repair

Air Conditioning Service & Repair

Jacksonville Air Conditioning Service & Repair There’s a great responsibility that comes along with servicing a community in the HVAC industry. At Charlie’s Tropic, our dedication has and always will be to our customers. Our commitment doesn’t end with the completion...

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What Builds Us

What Builds Us

Meet Charlie Marks Our founder, Charlie Marks, grew Charlie’s Tropic into what it is today. This came from his pure passion for the HVAC industry and building his own path to success. After traveling throughout most of  his young childhood with his Military Family he...

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What Makes Us Charlie’s Tropic

What Makes Us Charlie’s Tropic

What Makes Us Charlie's Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning There are a lot of Good HVAC companies out there but what makes a Great HVAC Company is having great leaders. People who motivate others around them, and build relationships that create trust and open...

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Women in HVAC: Sophisticated and Specialized

Women in HVAC: Sophisticated and Specialized

Women in HVAC: Sophisticated and Specialized The glass ceiling for women in the workforce has always been a complex problem with multiple different facets. There isn’t a single pain point for women – there’s many. From uncompetitive wages, limited growth...

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We are excited about giving back to Jacksonville

We are excited about giving back to Jacksonville

We are excited about giving back to Jacksonville The Bryant Community Heroes program honors ordinary people doing extraordinary things in local communities. Those selected receive a new high efficiency air conditioning system with installation provided by Charlie’s...

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6 Tips for Staying Cool During Extreme Heat

6 Tips for Staying Cool During Extreme Heat

6 Tips for Staying Cool During Extreme Heat As Jacksonville’s temperatures soar into the 90s and the real feel peaks above 100 degrees it’s become more important than ever to stay cool wherever you can. Turning your thermostat down is one of the most logical ways to...

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Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air 20th Anniversary

Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air 20th Anniversary

Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air 20th Anniversary Starting a new business is never an easy feat but keeping that business around for two decades was an even bigger milestone. I am proud to say that Charlie’s Tropic Heating and Air Conditioning is celebrating its...

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Amy O’Grady attends third annual Women in HVAC event

Amy O’Grady attends third annual Women in HVAC event

Amy O'Grady was one of dozens of women from across the heating and cooling brand who attended a three-day conference. “On my third year with Bryant Women in HVAC, I realized I had become part of an unspoken Sisterhood. We are all facing the same business climate and...

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We love our online reviews!

We love our online reviews!

We love our online reviews! If you’re in the habit of reading online reviews, then you probably follow the conventional wisdom by looking for a business that draws more positive reviews than negative ones. At Charlie's Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning, we...

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4 Smart moves before scheduling an AC tuneup

4 Smart moves before scheduling an AC tuneup

Make four smart moves before making the smartest one of all: scheduling an AC tuneup with Charlie's We've talked about the benefits of regular air conditioner maintenance so many times that of course you're planning to schedule your annual AC tuneup. It's right there,...

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Learn how to find your windows’ air leaks

Learn how to find your windows’ air leaks

Silent, not deadly, but costly; learn how to find your windows' air leaks If you're like many Floridians, you keep your windows closed most of the year to keep the warm air out. And you keep your window treatments closed to keep the sun out. But if you think your...

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Will UV lights clear the air?

Will UV lights clear the air?

Tired of the PU from kitchen odors? Many Floridians are turning to UV lights to clear the air You've run the exhaust fan, a ceiling fan and even a tabletop fan. And still, the kitchen odors linger. Then you got creative and tried some home remedies to squelch the...

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Holiday preparation

Holiday preparation

Holiday Preparation It's that time of year, alright – the time of year when you're alternately seized by eager anticipation, nervous anxiety and a fleeting sense of dread, all at the same time - time for holiday preparation! What else could it be but “holiday time,”...

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Make the most of the calm after the storm

Make the most of the calm after the storm; heed lessons stirred up by Hurricane Matthew Jacksonville residents watched the storm approach with trepidation for days, survived its ferocious, 60+ mph winds and then breathed a collective sigh of relief when we learned we...

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The Ins and Outs of Ventilation

Most people know someone who insists on cracking open the window of their car even as the air conditioner churns out cool air. You can point out the cool air that is being wasted by going right out the window. You can say that the resulting “drag” on the car wastes...

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An AC tuneup will save real money

An AC tuneup will save real money this summer Now that the summer heat has permeated northeast Florida, hardly a day goes by when a customer does not call Charlie’s Tropic Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., to ask, “What's the best way to set my thermostat in this...

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7 Ways We Provide Outstanding HVAC Customer Service

7 ways we provide outstanding HVAC customer service You can tell it's summertime in northeast Florida – and not just because of all the backyard barbecues, garage sales and community pool gatherings. It's the buzz of what's being said at these venues at this time of...

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Keep your cool

Keep your cool With tropical storms and hurricanes in the forecast, we all know that our electrical power might be interrupted at some point this summer, and that means goodbye cool air. While it might be difficult to move around your home without lights, it might be...

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Breaking Down the HVAC Barriers

Breaking Down the HVAC Barriers The year was 1979. The city was Jacksonville, FL. Some would say that 1979 was an ominous year where the stage was being set for the world we live in today. It was the year that the Shah of Iran was forced out and extremist...

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Amy O’Grady named to 2016 Bryant Heating Women in HVAC

Amy O’Grady, Marketing Director of Charlie’s Tropical Heating & Air, was recently named as one of 92 women from women across the US for the 2016 Bryant® Heating Women in HVAC. This prestigious group, which meets semi-annually, gives Bryant Heating and Cooling...

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Charlie’s household tips can save you money

You know you shouldn't and normally, you probably wouldn't. But what the heck? It's the holidays. It's not a time to save you money.  It's a rare person who doesn't muster the very human skill of rationalization to spend a few extra bucks around the holidays. If the...

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Make every breath you take matter

Make every breath you take really matter; protect and improve your indoor air quality Here's an easy one: you're driving down the street with your window open when a noisy truck or motorcycle streaming smoke and fumes pulls up next to you. So what do you do? You close...

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Home Energy Audits – Step 1

  Home Energy Audits – DIY and Professional - can slash your utility bills Step 1: The DIY audit Maybe your home feels drafty – even when the windows are closed. Or maybe certain rooms feel warm while others feel chilly or damp. Or maybe – and here's an...

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Safeguard Your HVAC System for the Holidays

You may be going out of town for the holidays, but as experience has probably taught you: You can put miles between yourself and your home, but it is never far from your thoughts. Missing your home is one thing, but you don't have to worry about it if you take some...

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Maximize your AC’s efficiency

  Ask a car mechanic how to increase a car's efficiency and lifespan, and he's likely to say, “Drive it less often.” Though tinged with sarcasm, the advice is nonetheless true – and applies to central air conditioners, too. It might help to keep in mind: trying...

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Add Up the Benefits of Buying a New Air Conditioner

When you're considering a major purchase like a new car, it can be difficult to fight the feeling that you're “being sold.” The feeling often intensifies if you're unsure about the purchase in the first place. Just as you weigh the pros and cons of investing in a new...

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Why MERV ratings matter to your air conditioner filter

Why MERV ratings matter to your air conditioner filter – to a point Your air conditioner depends on it to run efficiently and cleanly. You depend on it to breathe clean air and stay healthy. Yet the HVAC filter remains one of those “mystery components” that confounds...

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HVAC Air Filters Right to Your Door

HVAC Air Filters Right To Your Door Any reasonably good heating, air conditioning and ventilation company will advise its customers to regularly check their  air filter. But only an exceptional company will go the extra mile – literally – by offering a service that...

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Sweating Your AC System

Sweating Your AC System As a property manager, it's no wonder you're sweating how to best maintain your property's heating, ventilation and ac system. It's not only one of the biggest investments you've made; it's also a complex mechanical system that requires regular...

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Circle of Champions

Congratulations to us for winning the Circle of Champions award given by at the Bryant Awards each year. According to the Bryant website: Growing a successful Bryant® dealership demands a steadfast commitment to Quality Products and Service, an unwavering dedication...

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How clean are your condenser coils?

If ever there was a home maintenance job that will help your central air conditioner run more efficiently, it's cleaning the condenser coils. Dirt and grime are the twin enemies of your central air conditioner because they impede air flow and literally slow down the...

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Air Conditioning: Repair or Replace?

If ever you've grown sentimentally attached to an old car that is draining money from your budget with frequent repairs, then you can probably relate to that sinking feeling that it might be better to cut your losses and buy a newer, more reliable car. Every...

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Indoor Air Quality

More than the meal you cooked for dinner last night or even the furry dog who sat underneath the table while you savored it, nothing affects your indoor air quality more than your heating and air conditioning system. At the risk of being dramatic, your health and your...

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Beware of Space Heaters and Read This First

It's difficult to deny the appeal of space heaters. If someone in your home feels a perennial chill, a space heater can provide spot-on warmth. If you have a particularly cold or drafty room in your home, a space heater can be pressed into duty without having to raise...

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Preparing your Home & HVAC System for Winter

There may be a science behind predicting the weather, but that doesn't mean it can't surprise us. In some areas people might find themselves in t-shirts and shorts one day and breaking out the winter coat the next. Already this year some areas have seen measurable...

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Four Benefits of Programmable AC Thermostats

Today's consumer sand appliance manufacturers - including air conditioning system makers - are all about energy and cost efficiency. That's why programmable AC thermostats are all the rage. Properly installed and used, they can save the average American homeowner some...

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Leaky Air Conditioners Can be a Fire Hazard

Well maintained, they're built to keep us cool. But if your air conditioner springs a leak, things can get fiery hot. According to a 2012 report by the National Fire Protection Association, air conditioning, fans or related equipment were involved in upward of 7,400...

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