Madison Area Mechanical, Sheet Metal Contractors Association Team Up with Steamfitters for Heat's On Event | ACHR News

(Courtesy of Mechanical Industries Center)

The Madison Area Mechanical and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MSC) and Steamfitters Local 601 joined forces for the 36th annual Heat's On event. On Saturday, October 12, over 60 volunteers from these organizations came together to service the homes of 56 veterans, ensuring their furnaces were operating safely and efficiently as the cold winter months approach.

The event was a resounding success, with service technicians not only performing crucial maintenance checks but also identifying two furnaces in need of immediate replacement. Thanks to the generosity of Hooper Corporation, 1901 Inc., Temperature Systems Inc., and First Supply, these veterans will have new, fully functional furnaces installed in the coming days.

But the impact of Heat's On extends far beyond a single day. Since its inception in 1987, this program has serviced over 2,700 homes in Dane County, providing a lifeline to the elderly, the poor, and now, our nation's veterans. The event was born out of tragedy, a response to the preventable deaths of two elderly individuals who froze to death when their furnaces failed. Since then, the MSC and Local 601 have dedicated themselves to ensuring no one in their community suffers the same fate.

For the veterans who benefit from Heat's On, the program is a godsend.

"Your guys were just out here to service my furnace on this Heat's On for Veterans program," said Army Veteran John Heintz. "They were very professional, very friendly, and this is a very good program. I hope you guys keep it up as a veteran. I do appreciate the service call and the professionalism of your guys. Oh, and thank you so much for the sweet roll. You guys are fantastic."

Army and Vietnam Veteran Karl Hacker echoed Heintz's sentiments, saying, "Thank you again for servicing my furnace. The people were great. Can't believe I didn't do this sooner."

The success of Heat's On relies on the support of countless volunteers, contractors, and supply houses. This year, 13 local contractors provided trucks for the technicians, while First Supply, Gustave A. Larson, Johnstone Supply, and Temperature Systems Inc. donated the necessary materials for repairs. As MSC Executive Director Julie Walsh noted, "We could not do this program without the support of our volunteers, contractors, and supply houses who go above and beyond to help our veterans each year. This continues to be my favorite day of the year! This event is proof that acts of kindness can make the world a better place."

For the service technicians who give their time to Heat's On, the experience is deeply rewarding. Many are veterans themselves, and all are moved by the stories and sacrifices of the homeowners they serve. As one technician noted, hearing these stories gives them a new appreciation for all that the veterans have done for our country.

As the MSC begins collecting information for the 37th Heat's On event, veterans interested in a free furnace check next Fall can contact the Dane County Veterans Service Office at 608-266-4158.

As Walsh so eloquently put it, "this event is proof that acts of kindness can make the world a better place."