Johnson Controls Will Continue Sponsorship of Building Homes for Heroes

The YORK brand of Johnson Controls will continue its sponsorship of Building Homes for Heroes through 2017 and provide veterans with home heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Building Homes for Heroes is a national nonprofit organization that recognizes the sacrifices of men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces by supporting the needs of wounded or disabled soldiers and their families. The organization strives to build or renovate homes and gift them to severely injured veterans nationwide, mortgage-free.

2017 marks the fourth consecutive year that YORK and Building Homes for Heroes have worked together. Through its sponsorship of the Building Homes for Heroes program, Johnson Controls, along with YORK distributors and independent contractors nationwide, has donated heating and cooling systems, including installation, labor and on-going maintenance, to over 40 military families since 2014.

“Giving back to the communities where we live, work and play is important to all of us at Johnson Controls,” says Liz Haggerty, vice president and general manager, Johnson Controls Unitary Products Group. “That’s why we plan to continue our support of Building Homes for Heroes in 2017, partnering with our network of local independent contractors to provide veterans with home comfort systems.”

Participating YORK contractors are installing YORK Affinity heating and cooling systems for energy-efficient home comfort. In addition, the company is planning to install smart thermostats as part of its 2017 sponsorship. The YORK touch-screen residential thermostat incorporates smart technology to communicate with both conventional and connected HVAC systems. Homeowners can control their system remotely using their smartphone to monitor and adjust settings for up to six zones/rooms to save energy and feel more comfortable. The thermostat is also user friendly, with a touch-screen interface and remote programming features that are helpful for the disabled.

“We are honored to play a role in giving veterans a comfortable home,” says Jim Probst, president of George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating, Phoenix, Ariz. “We’ve been a part of seven Building Homes for Heroes homes during the three years we’ve been the local HVAC contractor for the program. Every time we’re contacted to help, we jump at the chance, because there’s no greater way for us to show these vets how grateful we are for their service.”

“It’s important to note that our network of contractors like Jim and distributors is critical to the success of our partnership with Building Homes for Heroes,” adds Haggerty. “They donate their time, services and expertise, along with the spirit that generates excitement for the program and support for our wounded veterans and their families.”