CHESTER, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Keeping things cool in near triple-digit heat is proving to be quite a lucrative, but busy, task for many Philadelphia-area business owners, like those selling water ice or installing and repairing air conditioners.
HVAC specialist Cavon Bennett said it has been a busy week for him, as he tries to squeeze in as many air conditioner repairs as he can throughout his work day. He blames many of the issues on the heat.
"Not normal temperatures," he said. "The units are undersized, or they're not used to this type of load that's going on through Philadelphia."
Related
Bennett, who owns Heat-n-Air Guys in Delaware County, said they are getting nearly double the normal load of calls for service.
"It's going to be pretty hard to get us out there, unless you're in our service area where we can get you pretty quick," he said.
He added that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a slow-moving manufacturing industry. That has stifled his company's ability to get units and parts.
Bennett said that while helping others stay cool, he's doing his best to do the same.
"My AC works really, really great in my truck. I have a large sombrero, and I try to dress loose," he said.
Related
Like a lot of other teens, Jalea Cottman decided to get a summer job. Instead of working for someone, she got her dad Jamiel's help and opened J&M Water Ice in Chester.
The hot weather has become quite lucrative for the duo.
"There's been a lot of customers here," Jalea said.
"Almost 200, 300 people," Jamiel added.
Long days inside the store serving customers can be pretty hot, but the Cottmans said they are taking plenty of water and water ice breaks.
"We have a central air unit in there to keep us cool," Jamiel added.
They were also giving out free cooling advice to their customers.
"Get as many water ices as you can, because it will keep you cool," Jalea suggested.
"Just have a whole lot of water ice, go back in the house and relax for the day," said Jamiel.
The Cottmans said that judging by the heat in the forecast, they expect things to stay busy over the next few days.
Related
