As temperatures drop and heating systems come into play, Sunrise Cooling and Heating is prepared to keep homes comfortable and efficient. Founded in 1984 by Jon Kerr's father, this family-owned business has grown into a trusted name in HVAC and refrigeration services. Today, Candace Kerr, Jon's wife and a second-generation owner, shares her insights on their journey, the values that guide them, and the importance of community involvement.
A Legacy of Service
Sunrise Cooling and Heating has been a staple in the community for over 40 years. “Jon and I took over as sole owners in 2019, but we’re building on a legacy that has always focused on quality service,” Candace explains. The company provides both residential and commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services, alongside refrigeration solutions.
Candace emphasizes the importance of their expertise in refrigeration. “All of our technicians are universally certified, allowing us to service a wide range of refrigeration equipment,” she notes. This capability extends to businesses like restaurants, where reliable cooling is essential.
Day-to-Day Operations
On a daily basis, Sunrise's team focuses on servicing and installing HVAC units. This includes not just traditional heating and cooling systems but also boilers and commercial refrigeration units. “Our main concern is ensuring that our customers breathe quality air and that their homes and businesses run efficiently,” Candace states.
Preventive maintenance is a cornerstone of their service. “By servicing units before problems arise, we save our customers money and keep their systems running at peak performance,” she adds. This proactive approach helps prevent costly repairs down the line.
Family Values and Adoption
Family is at the heart of Sunrise Cooling and Heating. Candace and Jon’s commitment to family extends beyond their business. Not only do Candace and Jon have four biological sons. They are dedicated foster and adoptive parents, having welcomed 16 children into their home over the past 16 years. This journey has profoundly shaped their values and priorities.
“We’ve seen the struggles that families face, and we want to be part of the solution,” Candace shares. Their experiences in foster care led them to adopt their daughter, when she was just six months old. “Her biological parents made the difficult decision to place her with us, knowing it was in her best interest,” Candace reflects.
This decision was not just about providing their daughter with a stable home but also about fostering a relationship with her biological family. “We want our daughter to understand her roots,” Candace explains. They maintain open communication with their daughter's biological mother, ensuring that she feels connected to her heritage.
Community Connections
Beyond business, Sunrise Cooling and Heating is dedicated to helping families in need. The company provides maintenance programs to families in the community, showcasing their commitment to giving back. “We want our customers to know that when they choose us, they’re also contributing to meaningful support,” Candace emphasizes. Additionally, Sunrise Cooling and Heating extends their efforts overseas by donating goods to families in Trinidad, furthering their mission to make a positive impact.
Sunrise is also actively involved in local events, such as the 4-H fair, where they engage with residents and support youth programs. “Even if we don’t gain immediate business, we believe in giving back to the community that supports us,” she says.
Looking Forward
As Sunrise Cooling and Heating prepares for the colder months, Candace is optimistic about the future. “We aim to maintain the family atmosphere in our business—both with our employees and our customers,” she states. Regular team meetings and open communication help foster a supportive environment for everyone involved.
Candace and Jon’s vision for the company includes expanding their services while continuing to prioritize quality and community. “We want to be the trusted name in HVAC that people think of first,” they share.
With a legacy built on service, dedication, and community involvement, Sunrise Cooling and Heating stands ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. As they enter a new season, they remain committed to ensuring every home feels like a sanctuary, no matter the weather outside.
Sunrise Cooling & Heating Inc.
Address: 10 County Line Rd 7 Suite #7, Branchburg
Website: www.sunrisecoolingheating.com
Phone: (908) 829-9134