Helping with HVAC all over
Photo: Contributed
For years, residents in the remote First Nation of Skatin had trouble finding the answers to their heating woes.
They either couldn’t find contractors, or the ones who did offer their services also came with outrageous prices. Then Better Living Heating and Cooling, a new HVAC company started by Mike Lee in the South Okanagan, found the community. It has been installing low-temperature, high-efficiency heat pumps in the community, preparing residents for the winter ahead.
“They had a heck of a time trying to find contractors, and we kind of stumbled upon them,” Lee says. “It really worked out. It was a win-win for both us and for the community.”
Lee has been in the HVAC industry for many years, but it wasn’t until last year that he started his own business. Instead of taking jobs only in the South Okanagan, Better Living Heating and Cooling will take jobs wherever it is needed. Lee wants everyone to know that it will help with their HVAC needs regardless of where they are in the Interior.
“We basically just go where the work is,” Lee says. “We find that the smaller communities that don’t have access to natural gas are perfect for the product that we offer.”
Better Living Heating and Cooling provides an energy-saving alternative to electric baseboard heating or propane, which can be expensive and unreliable, especially during the winter months. Heat pumps from Better Living function at 100% efficiency even at temperatures as low as -30 C, running entirely on electricity. This technology not only offers significant energy savings but also ensures residents are not left waiting for propane deliveries in harsh weather.
“I encourage people to research the brand of heat pump they consider putting in their homes,” Lee says. “Not all heat pumps offer the same quality and reliability as others.”
The push for more sustainable heating solutions is supported by provincial initiatives such as Clean BC, with additional incentives available through Fortis and BC Hydro rebates, which can reach as high as $16,000. Better Living Heating and Cooling is now able to offer financing to its customers as well as offering a six-month deferral. People may be hesitant to spend money on heating equipment with the holidays approaching, but with Better Living you don’t have to pay until spring 2025, so it lightens the financial burden of repairs or upgrades to your heating systems.
“It’s a great time to upgrade your heating and cooling needs,” Lee says.
Starting with just his pickup truck and a small cargo trailer, Lee has grown his business to include two company trucks and a workman trailer. The growth reflects a demand for dependable HVAC services in areas that other contractors often overlook. His company has already serviced homes in 100 Mile House, Revelstoke, Pemberton and Castlegar.
With certifications from HPCN, TECA and HRAI in installation, design and commissioning techniques, Better Living Heating and Cooling’s commitment to the trade and to helping people is evident.
“I’ve been in the trades for a while,” Lee says. “I really enjoy the trades. I enjoy helping people, and I really like fixing things.”
If you need HVAC help, no matter where you might be, visit the Better Living Heating and Cooling website here.
This article is written by or on behalf of the sponsoring client and does not necessarily reflect the views of Okanagan Edge.
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