By Sharon Arena – CHRISTINA VOIGHT
The best way to describe Edgerton Heating & Air Conditioning is like a well-oiled machine. In an industry where it’s mostly male-dominated, I had the pleasure of interviewing Christina Voight, the newest addition to Edgerton who has both the brains and beauty to back the company’s brand.
This family business started back in 1956 when Charlie Edgerton saw a need for excellent customer service and even better quality service. Charlie started the company as a one-man show in Monroe, CT. Since then, the company has grown to more than 50 employees and is now owned by the 3rd generation.
“I’m sure a lot has changed since 1956,” I mentioned Derek, the company’s VP, and General Manager, and Chris, director of Residential Operations, walked into the room. The men laughed and mentioned that part of what makes them different from other companies, is that they’re always up-to-date on the latest technologies. Looking at the wall of their conference room, I noticed a rather large whiteboard, filled with notes. To me, they are generating ideas through their team – trying to think of new, innovative ways to improve their product and service.
“We started specializing in Smart Homes,” mentioned Derek, “from a simple app on your phone, you can control the air conditioning, heat and humidity levels in your home.” Personally, that’s pretty genius – I know I’d like to come back from vacation to a nice, comfortable home. “Some of the other technologies we offer are heated floor tiles and driveways,” adds Chris. Can you imagine how amazing it would be to have a heated driveway in New England? Yes, please!
One of the things that set Edgerton apart from everyone else, is that they stand by their work and their product. They believe getting to know their clients face-to-face is a major advantage. They do everything from sales, installation, and service, both residential and commercial. The company prides themselves on having top-notch customer response, and always being available 24/7.
Their employees have been like a big family. Charlie Edgerton’s son and his Grandson took over in 2012. They recently had an employee that retired after 40 years with Edgerton. It’s nice to know that many of their customers get to see long-term employees, that they can develop personal relationships with throughout the years.
Everyone is thoroughly trained, educated and licensed. Derek mentioned that when they get a new product in, they take it apart and put it back together. That way they can understand how the unit works literally from the inside out.
Christina has a unique situation at the company. She is able to connect with the female customers differently. Many times, when a hot water heater or AC unit stops working, it’s the wife or stay-at-home mom that makes the call. Hearing Christina’s voice and calm demeanor, helps to reassure the customer and feel at ease.
I asked the trio how being part of the family-owned business for over 60 years has been rewarding? “It’s an industry that is never going to die,” said Chris, “everyone here is like a big family.” They feel that the strength of their people is what truly sets them apart from other companies. They have also recently been branching into Westchester County.
Safety is their main focus when it comes to service calls. The Edgerton team makes sure that each and every job is clean and professional. After all, it’s been their 60+ year outstanding service reputation that will have them going another 60 years.
For more information about Christina, Derek, Chris and the rest of the Edgerton team, visit their website at www.edgertonhvac.com.
– A Golden Featured Business at Gold Coast Connect .com
Interview by Sharon Arena, of Salty Red Dog Marketing
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