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How to Clean and Maintain HVAC Systems

Learning how to clean and maintain HVAC systems is one of the best ways to keep them safe, efficient and reliable all year round. So, what is HVAC maintenance? It’s the regular cleaning, inspection and servicing that ensures your equipment performs at its best while keeping energy costs under control. Without it, systems become less efficient, air quality suffers and unexpected breakdowns become more likely.

In this guide, we’ll explain why HVAC maintenance matters, what is done during HVAC maintenance, the simple steps you can take yourself and the benefits of using professional HVAC maintenance services. At Chillaire, we’ve been helping homes, businesses and industrial clients across the Midlands take care of their HVAC systems for more than 30 years, so you can trust that regular maintenance really does make a difference.

What Is HVAC Maintenance?

When we talk about HVAC maintenance, what we mean is the regular cleaning, inspection and servicing. This keeps your heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems working safely and efficiently.

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. In simple terms, this system keeps you warm during winter and cool during summer, controlling the climate inside your building.

So, is it worth maintaining? Absolutely. Without proper care, these systems can affect your comfort, energy bills and even your health. Poorly maintained equipment can lower air quality, making it harder to breathe. Regular HVAC maintenance helps you avoid breakdowns and keeps the environment inside your premises healthy.

Is HVAC Maintenance Important?

There are plenty of benefits that come with keeping up a HVAC maintenance routine:

Safety
HVAC systems often run on electricity or gas. Having them checked each year is essential. Technicians look for electrical faults, gas leaks and carbon monoxide levels. Safety really is the top priority.

Indoor air quality
If the system is dirty, the air you breathe is dirty. Dust, mould and allergens can build up inside your ducts and filters. Maintenance makes sure your system is circulating clean air.

Lifespan
Equipment that’s blocked with dirt or never inspected will wear out faster. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system, protecting your investment.

Energy efficiency
A dirty system has to work harder, which means it runs longer and uses more power. Keeping everything clean and tuned reduces your energy bills.

Peace of mind
When all these points are covered, you can relax knowing your HVAC system is reliable, safe and ready for the season ahead.

DIY vs Professional HVAC Maintenance

Annual HVAC maintenance is an investment worth making. A system that is serviced properly not only uses less energy but also provides better comfort at lower costs.

Working with professional HVAC maintenance services is important because trained technicians can spot problems early and carry out repairs to keep everything running smoothly. Homeowners or business owners simply don’t have access to the specialist knowledge and tools required for a thorough service.

Professional HVAC Maintenance Services:

A typical annual HVAC service carried out by a professional technician should include:

  • A full clean of the furnace or air conditioning unit
  • Inspection of safety switches and devices
  • Checking for cracks or damage in the heat exchanger
  • Filter replacement
  • Calibration of temperature and airflow controls
  • Washing of the outdoor condenser coil
  • Adjustment of fans and belts
  • Inspection of drains and traps
  • Testing of all electrical components 

This level of care ensures the system runs as efficiently as possible and reduces the chance of breakdowns at the worst time of year.

How can I Keep my HVAC System in Good Condition

There are a few simple maintenance tasks that are safe and effective for homeowners and business operators:

  • Keep filters clean. Replace or wash them regularly to stop blockages and keep air moving freely.
  • Keep vents open. Avoid placing furniture or curtains in front of them so the air can circulate.
  • Clear around the outdoor unit. Remove leaves, rubbish or overgrown plants so airflow isn’t blocked.
  • Cover smartly in winter. If icicles form above your unit, protect it with a piece of plywood placed on top. Otherwise, leave it uncovered so moisture isn’t trapped inside.

These steps will help extend the life of your HVAC system, improve efficiency and make professional servicing even more effective.

Maintain your HVAC Systems with Chillaire

At Chillaire, we specialise in keeping HVAC systems running at peak performance. Our planned preventative maintenance services are designed for homes, businesses and industrial settings, making sure your equipment stays safe and reliable all year round.

When our technicians visit, you’ll receive a thorough service that includes cleaning, inspection and performance checks. We follow strict quality standards to ensure your system is cared for properly.

We also offer flexible maintenance packages, so you can choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. With over 30 years of experience and a dedicated team across the Midlands, Chillaire is here to help you enjoy all the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance without the worry.

Contact us today to find out more and book your maintenance.

How Long Does Air Conditioning installation take red and blue infographic

How Long Does Air Conditioning Installation Take?

If you’re planning a new AC installation, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long it takes to get your system up and running. The answer depends on the type of system and whether you’re installing air conditioning in a single room or setting up a large commercial HVAC system.

For most homes, you can install an air con in as little as 4 to 8 hours for a standard split unit, while multi-split or ducted systems can take several days. On the other hand, commercial projects are often larger and more complex, meaning installation can take anywhere from a single day to a full week or more.

In this guide, we’ll break down the typical timeframes for installing air conditioning, from quick window units to full whole-house and commercial HVAC systems.

How Long Does it Take to Install Air Conditioning?

When thinking about installing air conditioning, one of the first questions is how long the process will take. A typical air conditioner installation can take anywhere from four to eight hours to complete. In some instances, this can take longer depending on the scope of the project.

However, a full HVAC installation will definitely take longer. A simple residential system may take 1 to 5 days, while a larger commercial or industrial installation can take several weeks. Knowing the typical install time helps you plan your schedule and prepare your home or business for the work ahead.

How Long Does it Take to Install Standard Home AC Units?

For a single, standard air conditioning unit, such as a wall-mounted split system, the installation typically takes between 4 and 8 hours. This usually means the job can be done in one day, so if installation starts in the morning, you could be enjoying cool air by the evening.

In some instances, particularly for very straightforward setups, the process might even be finished in as little as 2 to 3 hours. Window units are the quickest installation option, often requiring just 30 minutes to fit. A simple wall-mounted unit is inherently much quicker to install compared to a concealed ducted system, which necessitates more extensive structural work.

How Long Do Multi-Split Systems & Central Air Conditioning Take to Install?

Multi-split air con systems are used when a property requires cooling in more than one room. These systems typically involve one outdoor unit connected to several indoor units, commonly between two and four. The installation of such a system generally takes around 6 to 8 hours. However, for multi-split systems designed to cover two to four rooms, the duration can extend to    

1 to 2 days. If the system is intended for three or more rooms, the installation period may increase to 2 to 3 days. Central air conditioning installations, which often involve a more integrated approach, can take up to 8 hours to complete.

How Long Does it Take to Install Whole-House Ducted Systems (HVAC)?

A comprehensive HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system, designed to cool an entire home through a network of ducts, is a more extensive installation project. Such a complete system typically requires 3 to 5 days for installation. Should the project necessitate significant structural modifications to accommodate the ductwork or units, the timeline could extend to a full week. 

It is worth noting that replacing an old HVAC system can often be quicker than installing a brand-new one, as existing ductwork may already be in place.

How Long Does It Take to Replace an AC Compressor?

While often considered a repair rather than a full installation, replacing an air conditioner compressor is a critical task that directly impacts the unit’s functionality. This process typically takes approximately 2 to 4 hours. The compressor is the core component responsible for circulating the refrigerant, which is essential for generating cold air.

Typical Home Air Con Installation Timeframes

Air Con System Type Estimated Installation Time
Window Unit 30 minutes
Standard Split Unit (Single Room) 4-8 hours
Multi-Split System (2-4 Rooms) 1-2 days
Multi-Split System (3+ Rooms) 2-3 days
Central Air Conditioning Up to 8 hours
Whole-House Ducted System (HVAC) 3-5 days
AC Compressor Replacement 2-4 hours

How Long Does Commercial Air Conditioning Installation Take?

Commercial air conditioning systems are very different from home units. They are designed to meet the demands of large spaces such as offices, retail stores, factories and hospitals. Installing air conditioning in a commercial environment comes with unique challenges. The scale, complexity and operational needs of a business often mean that new AC installation takes longer than a typical home air con installation.

While installing air conditioning in a home might be done in a single day, commercial projects can take anywhere from one day to a full week or even longer. This is entirely dependent on the system type and the building’s characteristics. Here’s what influences the timeline:

Building Size

The size of the commercial property is a major factor. Larger buildings need more extensive HVAC systems, often with multiple units, which naturally increases installation time. For comparison, when you install AC in a house, you’re usually working with a single, smaller system, which is much quicker than outfitting an entire office or warehouse.

Type of Installation & System Changeout

The nature of the project makes a big difference:

  • Simple changeout: If you’re replacing an old unit with a similar one and the existing infrastructure such as ductwork, wiring and controls, is still usable, the team can often install air con in as little as one day.
  • Full system replacement: A more complex project, involving new ductwork, thermostat rewiring or complete system redesign, can take three to five days or more.

Location of the HVAC Unit

Where the system will be installed matters. If the HVAC unit needs to go on a roof, especially a high or hard-to-access one, the process is more complex. Cranes or lifting equipment may be needed, which adds both time and cost. It can also require additional technicians to ensure everything is done safely.

Workspace Needs

Every business has unique requirements. Office layouts, occupancy levels and the presence of heat-generating equipment like server rooms all affect system design. Detailed heat load calculations and proper system sizing are essential and these extra planning steps can influence how long the installation takes.

Air Conditioning Installation at Chillaire

At Chillaire, we are the experts in home and commercial air conditioning. With over 30 years experience, our team provides professional air conditioning installation, maintenance or repair services. Businesses and homeowners looking to install air con or upgrade existing systems rely on Chillaire for dependable results.

Speak with our team today to arrange a free consultation and enjoy reliable comfort all year round.

 

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When Do I Need an Air Conditioner Replacement?

At Chillaire, we’ve helped countless businesses decide when it’s time for an air conditioner replacement. With years of hands-on experience, we know a new AC unit can make all the difference in comfort and efficiency. If you’re wondering when to replace your AC unit, you’re in the right place.

In this article we cover: 

  • The signs that you need an AC system replacement 
  • When to replace your AC unit 
  • The best time of year for installation
  • Planning your AC installation

Recognising the Signs

Deciding to replace your unit is not an easy decision. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Frequent Breakdowns: Regular repairs indicate an aging system.
  • Rising Energy Bills: Increased energy use could mean your AC unit is operating inefficiently.
  • Uneven Cooling: Some rooms feel warmer than others.
  • Unusual Noises: Strange sounds suggest internal wear and tear.
  • Age of Unit: If your system is 10–15 years old, it may be time for a new AC.
  • Costly Repairs: When repair costs are frequent, replacement could be a smarter choice.

These indicators help you decide whether to invest in an air con replacement rather than sinking more money into constant fixes.

When to Replace Your AC Unit

Knowing when to replace your air conditioning is crucial for avoiding inconvenience and extra expenses. Instead of waiting for a complete breakdown, keep an eye on your system’s performance. If you find yourself repeatedly calling for repairs, it’s a clear signal that replacing AC might be the better long-term investment. An AC system replacement restores efficiency and maintains a comfortable environment in your home or commercial space.

The Best Time to Install a New AC

Timing matters when planning your new AC installation. At Chillaire, we know the best time to buy and arrange installation of an AC unit is during the off-peak seasons. Consider these periods:

  • January to April: Cooler weather means service providers have more availability.
  • October to December: As temperatures drop, installations become less hectic.

During the busy mid-summer months, companies are extremely busy. This peak period often leads to longer wait times and higher costs. Choosing the quieter months gives you better scheduling flexibility and sometimes even lower prices.

Expert Advice in Practice

Years of experience at Chillaire have taught us that waiting too long to replace a failing unit leads to higher costs and more stress. A small issue today can signal bigger problems down the road. That’s why we always advise a professional assessment if you suspect your system is underperforming. A detailed inspection can confirm whether replacing AC is the best solution.

Chillaire offers a full range of services in Coventry and the surrounding areas to assist you with this process. From repairs to installation and servicing to maintenance, we ensure your system runs efficiently. Whether you’re considering a repair or a full AC system replacement, getting a professional opinion is always valuable.

Planning Your New AC Installation

Once you’ve decided that an air conditioner replacement is necessary, planning ahead will really help you have a smooth process. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

  • Research Your Options: Compare models and features that improve energy efficiency.
  • Schedule a Consultation: A professional assessment ensures you choose the right system size.
  • Plan Ahead: Book your installation during the off-peak months for better availability.
  • Maintain Your System: Regular check-ups after installation keep your new AC running smoothly and ensure longevity.

This approach protects your budget and keeps your home comfortable all year round.

Trust Chillaire for Your Air Conditioning Needs

When it comes to your home comfort, you need a partner you can rely on. At Chillaire, our experts have decades of experience ensuring your AC runs smoothly. Whether it’s repairs, installation, or maintenance, we provide 24-hr service and repairs that keep your system performing at its best.

Your comfort is our priority. Reach out today for a free consultation and see how our trusted services can make a difference.

Contact us today or visit Chillaire to schedule your appointment.

Red and Blue infographic with heat pump on it

The Importance of Heat Pump Maintenance

There’s nothing worse than waking up on a freezing morning, only to find your heat pump has given up. That’s why heat pump maintenance isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential. Regular servicing helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently. Without it, you may experience costly repairs. 

Depending on your heat pump system’s kW capacity, you may be required to legally have it serviced every 6 or 12 months. This requirement depends on the type and quantity of refrigerant gas the heat pump operates on.

A routine heat pump service ensures your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long. Don’t wait until it’s too late, stay ahead and swiftly address issues.

What is Heat Pump Maintenance?

Heat pump maintenance is the routine care required to keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan. Regular heat pump service ensures that your heat pump is working at peak performance. This prevents system failures and expensive heat pump repairs. 

A heat pump is designed to be durable and reliable but like any other HVAC system, it requires attention every so often. In the dead of winter the last thing you need is a malfunctioning system.

What’s Involved in Heat Pump Maintenance:

  • Air filter replacement or cleaning
  • Outdoor unit cleaning
  • Coil inspection and cleaning
  • Thermostat calibration
  • Ductwork inspection for leaks
  • Refrigerant level check
  • Lubrication of moving parts
  • Electrical connection inspection

By staying on top of these tasks, you ensure your heat pump is prepared for the demands of the season. At Chillaire, we offer 24-Hour service and repairs for all HVAC systems.

Planned Maintenance | The Benefits

Scheduling planned maintenance for your heat pump offers a range of benefits. With scheduled maintenance, Chillaire professionals can identify and fix minor issues before they develop into more significant problems.

Here are some key benefits:

Increased lifespan: Regular servicing extends the life of your heat pump. 

Improved efficiency: A well-maintained heat pump operates at maximum efficiency. This ensures you’re getting the most out of your energy usage and saving money on utility bills.

Fewer breakdowns: Routine checks help catch potential issues early, reducing the risk of your system failing at inconvenient times.

Enhanced comfort: Ensuring your system is working optimally means consistent and reliable heating and cooling throughout your home.

Peace of mind: With planned maintenance, you know your heat pump is always in good condition.

How Often Should You Plan Maintenance?

To keep your heat pump operating efficiently and avoid the major problems, regular heat pump maintenance is essential. The frequency of servicing depends on usage, climate and system type, but as a general rule:

Professional Maintenance: It’s recommended to schedule a heat pump service at least once a year. Do this before peak hot or cold seasons. If your heat pump is used all year for both heating and cooling, service it twice a year.

DIY Maintenance: In between professional check-ups, you should clean or replace air filters every 1-3 months. Additional steps include keeping the outdoor unit free from debris and monitoring any unusual noises.

Book Your Service Today With Chillaire!

At Chillaire, we offer expert heat pump service to ensure your unit operates at its best all year round. Our experienced technicians provide thorough inspections, cleaning and servicing. 

Don’t wait for costly heat pump repairs, Contact us to book your service today.

Although the majority of air conditioning systems work in the same way, there’s a big difference between what’s needed for homes and commercial spaces. 

Commercial AC is designed to meet the unique demands of businesses, making them larger, more powerful and more complex than home units. Whereas, home HVAC systems focus on comfort and efficiency for smaller residential areas.

In this article, we’ll share with you the key distinctions between commercial HVAC systems and home HVAC systems. From differences in design and performance to maintenance and functionality, understanding these differences can help you choose the right solution for your space.

What is Commercial AC?

Commercial AC is also referred to as commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning). The word commercial means that the AC units are specifically designed to meet the demands of large spaces such as offices, retail stores, factories and hospitals. 

Unlike home HVAC systems, which cater to smaller private spaces, commercial HVAC systems are built to cool large areas with multiple rooms. In some cases  these units cool entire buildings and run for extended hours to accommodate business hours. 

Types of Commercial HVAC Systems

Since commercial air conditioning systems are designed to meet different needs than home HVAC systems, the units are different. Below are the some of the various types of commercial HVAC units:

VRF Systems

A Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system is a complex HVAC system, designed to provide temperature control to multiple rooms and units at the same time. You’re able to add more AC units to the same VRF system at any time, making them a versatile choice for commercial businesses.

VRF systems use a single outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units, with refrigerant flow adjusted based on each room’s heating or cooling needs. This allows individual rooms to maintain different temperatures simultaneously.

 

Multi-Split Systems

Multi-Split HVAC systems consist of a single outdoor unit connecting to multiple indoor units. While this may sound identical to a VRF system, they differ in their capacity and functionality.

Multi-split systems can only distribute a fixed amount of refrigerant to each indoor unit. This offers basic room temperature control but with limited efficiency compared to VRF systems. They are best suited for medium sized commercial spaces and they’re more affordable and simpler to install. 

modern multi split AC system, white background

 

 

 

Ceiling Cassettes

A ceiling cassette unit is a type of indoor air conditioning unit that is installed in the ceiling. It’s a discreet and space-saving solution for cooling or heating a room. Ceiling cassette units typically cannot operate on their own without being part of a larger commercial  HVAC system.

It is designed to work hand-in-hand with outdoor units, such as in a mini-split or VRF system, which provides the necessary refrigerant and power for the ceiling cassette to function.

So how is Commercial AC Different From Home AC?

Commercial AC vs Home AC red and blue infographic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While both commercial AC and home AC systems serve the same purpose of cooling indoor spaces they still have many key differences:

 

  • Different Size and Capacity: Home HVAC systems are much smaller and less complex compared to commercial AC. Home systems are designed to cool individual rooms or small houses.
  • Different Installation Requirements: Commercial HVAC systems are much more complex and large-scale. This means the installation process requires more time and precision compared to home HVAC.
  • Cost: Due to their larger scale and complexity, commercial air conditioning systems are more expensive to install, operate and maintain. 
  • Usage: Commercial AC is designed for continuous operation. Whereas home HVAC units are used for shorter periods, often just during hot weather or at specific times of day.

Commercial Air Conditioning at Chillaire

At Chillaire, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality commercial air conditioning solutions that meet the unique needs of your business. With years of expertise and a focus on energy efficiency, we ensure your environment stays comfortable year-round.

Whether you’re looking for installation, maintenance or repair services, our professional team is ready to help.

Contact Chillaire today for any queries.

Gas radiant tube heaters installations, red and blue infographic

Gas Radiant Tube Heater Installations

Gas radiant heating is a completely different way of providing heating to a designated area or half open buildings compared with gas warm air heating.

The radiant tube heater operation ensures a cleaner-burning, ultra-efficient heat. They can be ideal for part heating a building or designated spaces inside a large building or hard-to-heat large buildings looking for an environmentally low carbon footprint heating solution like warehouses and workshops.

The burner in a gas radiant tube heater generates a long laminar flame inside the radiant tube. This flame heats the radiant tubes up to around temperatures of 550°C to 580°C. An exhaust system mounted at the end of the tube heater discharges the combustion exhaust gas to atmosphere.

Therefore, the limitation of these types of heaters can be to their advantage, the heat can be directed more precisely as long as somebody or something is in reach of the heating appliance. They are suited for production areas or parts of a warehouse or car garage workshops where people work only in a part of the building or are constantly moving around.

Radiant tube installation

Powrmatic SRP PL Linear & PU U-Tube Radiant Heaters

The PL Linear & PU U-Tube Radiant Heaters Superior Radiant Products (SRP®) from Powermatic feature optimal comfort and energy savings with two-stage technology. High/low capability allows for quicker recovery on the high fire and economical steady operation on the low fire with either U-Tube or Single Linear configurations. SRP Linear & U-Tube Radiant Heaters comprises outputs ranging from 10 to 60kW offering maximum efficiency from lightweight radiant heating tubes providing direct heat and warmth in.

Winter-warm

The WRU and WRL series are eminently suitable for use in combination with indirect-fired air heating.
A relatively small air-heating capacity can keep the room at a certain minimum temperature while the workplaces themselves can be pleasantly boosted by a radiant tube.
The radiant tube can be switched on as and when required, and the comfortable heat is felt almost immediately.

In situations where an old, poorly insulated factory bay has to be heated, the heating of the entire bay with radiant tubes provides an excellent heating solution. Effective and energy saving.
The effect of radiant heat is felt immediately, and it ensures a long period of retained heat so the radiant tubes can be switched off well before the end of the working day. Transmission losses are relatively low as surfaces are heated instead of the air which escapes through the roof, bad insulated walls or other cracks.

For new sales & installation quotations for gas fired radiant tube heater please contact Chillaire Limited, a supplier and installer of Powrmatic systems by emailing us at: sales@chillaire.co.uk or you can call us:

Local Office Phone Numbers:

Coventry : 024 7624 9440 

Nuneaton : 024 7632 0300

Rugby : 01788 669164

Warwick : 01926 825681

Leicester : 0116 252 5094

Northampton : 01604 269540

Kettering : 01536 384046

Milton Keynes : 01908 483585

Redditch : 01527 531275 

Tamworth : 01827 842224

Derby : 01332 561729

Coventry Commercial & Industrial Heating Centre: Chillaire Limited, 16 Lythalls Lane, Coventry, West Midlands, CV6 6FG / Tel: 024 7624 9440 or email sales@chillaire.co.uk and you can visit our website for further details: www.chillaire.co.uk

Northampton Commercial & Industrial Heating Centre: Chillaire Limited, Moulton Park Business Centre, Redhouse Road, Moulton Park, Northamptonshire, NN3 6AQ – Tel: 01604 269540 or email sales@chillaire.co.uk and you can visit our website for further details: www.chillaire.co.uk

Heading infographic for article on how to improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings

How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings

With the ever-growing importance and issues of climate change impacting our future, it’s wise to know how to improve the energy efficiency in your commercial building. As a result of the government’s Energy White Paper released in 2020, the Net Zero policies confirmed the minimum energy efficiency standards for rented non-domestic buildings to be EPC B by 2030. Making it now, more than ever, important to improve your energy efficiency.

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5 Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps

With the rise of environmentally friendly heating options, air source heat pumps are becoming more common for industrial application. Their sustainability and energy efficiency makes them a popular choice for heating solutions in commercial properties. 

Within this article, we will discuss five benefits of air source heat pumps and how Chillaire can help with your heating requirements.

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Graphic for how to choose the right commercial heating systemHow to Choose the Right Commercial Heating System

Choosing the right commercial heating system can be key in helping your business. Whether you are looking to keep your customers warm in the winter or maintain a consistent temperature throughout your office, it is important to choose a heating system that will benefit your business.

Here at Chillaire, we have decades of experience supplying, installing and maintaining commercial and industrial heating systems across Coventry and the Midlands.

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graphic for the 2024 guide to air conditioning article

The 2024 Guide to Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is the process of removing heat and moisture from the air inside the building. These systems come in different types: Single-Split System, Multi-Split System, VRF System and a Hybrid System. Your choice in air conditioning system will depend on the size and shape of your building, as well as what you want to achieve from your system. 

Chillaire has been installing and servicing air conditioning systems for commercial and industrial buildings for over 30-years. Read on to learn everything you need in Chillaire’s 2024 Guide to Air Conditioning.

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