Fast and Affordable AC Replacement & Installation

Why Climatrol Air?

  • 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
  • Carrier Factory Authorized
  • 99.99% 5 Star Reviews
  • 24/7 Emergency Services
  • No Extra After Hours Charges
  • 100% NATE Certified
  • $69 Service Call
  • All Brands Serviced
  • Google Guaranteed
  • Guaranteed Best Price

5-Star Rated

Climatrol Air® stands as North Georgia’s best-rated HVAC replacement and installation company, dedicated to all aspects of indoor comfort. There is no asterisk in the previous sentence, nor is it hyperbole. We pledge to deliver a professional experience, led by NATE-certified technicians who utilize the finest materials, ensuring your satisfaction at the best possible price.

We Repair All Brands!

Climatrol HVAC Services

(706) 972-2041
Climatrol Air offers the very best AC installation and replacement services for homeowners in North Georgia. Our service area spans from Ball Ground, Georgia all the way up to Hiawassee, Georgia and the surrounding communities. Our experienced technicians have seen it all, so no matter how big or small the issue may be we’ll get things working just the way they should quickly and at the guaranteed best value price. As a Factory Authorized Carrier Dealer, we off a 100% satisfaction guarantee. After we are done, if you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll replace the system for no additional charge!
Air Conditioner Replacement
Financing Options
Buyer Beware Scenarios
Current Specials
See Our Reviews
Articles & Information

Is it Time to Replace Your AC?

As summer approaches, the question of whether to repair or replace your air conditioning system becomes increasingly pertinent. Climatrol Air’s certified technicians are on hand to provide expert advice and service, from designing your entire system to replacing units.

Repair Cost

When facing a malfunctioning A/C, homeowners often consider minor repairs like part replacements or a new compressor. However, if repair costs hover between 30 to 50 percent of a new unit’s price, it may be more economical to opt for replacement. This is particularly true for units with a history of problems or those using R22 refrigerant, which is being phased out.

Equipment Age

The lifespan of your air conditioning equipment is heavily influenced by maintenance and usage intensity. If your A/C unit or heat pump is over 8 to 10 years old, it might be time to consider replacing it with a more modern and efficient system.

Furnace Performance

Take a moment to evaluate the effectiveness of your current air conditioning system. Are escalating electric bills a concern? Does your A/C adequately cool your home? These factors can be crucial in deciding whether to repair your existing unit or invest in a new one.

Equipment Warranty

Before deciding on repairs or a full replacement, it’s vital to review your A/C’s warranty terms. Generally, replacement parts are covered for the duration of the original warranty, but keep in mind that the cost of repair labor might not be included in these terms.

Residency Plans

Your future housing plans can significantly impact your decision. If a move is imminent, repairing your existing system may be the most practical choice. However, for those planning to stay long-term, investing in a new, energy-efficient A/C and heat pump system can offer both efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Well Maintained

Think of your A/C system like a car that needs regular oil changes. The U.S. Department of Energy underscores the importance of annual pre-season maintenance checks by a professional. The maintenance history of your A/C system is a key factor in determining whether to repair or replace.

5-Star Rated AC Installation

With over three decades of hands-on experience, our expertise in AC installations is unmatched. We’re proud partners with Carrier, the leading manufacturer in the HVAC industry. This collaboration ensures that you receive a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient system crafted from premium-grade materials designed for longevity.

From upgrading older models to introducing powerful, energy-efficient units in new spaces, residents of Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Jasper, Ball Ground, and nearby North Georgia communities can rely on us for impeccable AC installations.

Professional AC Replacement: Serving Ellijay and Beyond

Facing issues with an aging air conditioning system or weighing the cost of repairs? Our adept technicians are here to assist. A comprehensive inspection of your current system will be conducted, followed by a candid discussion about its condition.

Whether it’s a minor repair or addressing potential future concerns due to wear, we prioritize your best interests. We are steadfast in our commitment to transparency; you’ll never find us pushing a service that doesn’t resonate with your comfort level.

Should a replacement be your chosen route, rest assured, we’ll guide you to the perfect fit for your home. Once your new system is in place, we’re here to answer all queries about its operation and upkeep.

Our AC Installation Process

When you choose us for AC replacement or a fresh installation, here’s what the journey looks like:

  1. Consultation & Analysis: We evaluate various parameters – the feasibility of repairing the existing unit, budget considerations, your lifestyle, the dimensions of your home, and specific comfort requirements. An in-depth cost analysis of potential options is provided, highlighting the savings a modern, energy-efficient model could offer.
  2. Scheduling: Once you’ve selected your preferred system, we fix an installation date that suits your calendar.
  3. Installation Day: Our team will meticulously uninstall your old unit, ensuring your property remains pristine. The outdated system will be responsibly disposed of, lifting that concern off your shoulders. The new AC will then be installed precisely as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, while also meeting all local North Georgia regulations.
  4. Quality Assurance: Post-installation, we conduct rigorous performance assessments to confirm everything is functioning optimally. We’ll walk you through the new system’s features and maintenance protocols. Additionally, we’ll discuss the warranty details to provide you with complete clarity and peace of mind.

For an unmatched AC installation experience in North Georgia, you know where to turn. We’re here, committed to your comfort.

Read Our Reviews
Get the perfect HVAC with the Carrier Credit Card!

Current Financing Specials

Innovative Carrier products are trusted in more homes than any other brand. Through our close relationship with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., participating Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers can offer a variety of flexible options for financing your new Carrier product or system. That way, you can invest in your home’s comfort or respond to an unexpected heating and cooling need without breaking your monthly budget.
Financing Features
  • Convenient monthly payments
  • Special terms promotional offers
  • An easy-to-use online bill payment option
  • Simple online application
  • Quick Credit decisions
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*The Carrier® credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 11/01/2023 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921.
$200 Off New Systems
Schedule online and save $200 off new and replacement HVAC systems.
$100 Off Ductless Systems
Schedule online and save $100 off new ductless mini-split systems.
$20 Off HVAC Tune-Ups
Schedule online and get $20 off of your HVAC seasonal heater or AC tune-up.
$180 Maintenance Plan
Sign up online and save on an annual HVAC maintenance plan.
10% Off For Seniors
Schedule online and get 10% off of all HVAC heating and AC repairs.
10% Off For First Responders
Schedule online and get 10% off of all HVAC heating and AC repairs.
15% Off Active Military & Vets
Schedule online and get 15% off of all HVAC heating and AC repairs.
$25 Off HVAC Repairs
Schedule online and get $25 off of all HVAC heating and AC repairs.

*One coupon per Address, Coupons Cannot be combined, Coupons do not apply to service call fee

Customer service and customer care,
That’s who we are.

Climatrol Air, LLC IconClimatrol Air, LLC

1298 Old Highway 5, Ellijay

4.9 277 reviews

  • Avatar Brian MacInnes ★★★★★ a month ago
    Excellent Experience. Zach and Dalton came to do the quote, they were very professional, and I liked how multiple options were given. I shopped 4 companies and not only did Climatrol give the most professional presentation they also gave … More the best price of the four. Just 2 days after I accepted the quote, Travis and Dalton (and a couple others but I didn't get their names) came to do the install! Again, very professional team taking care not to track in dirt. Also, they were patient with my many questions and helped test the aux heat/zoning controller to make sure it was working (even though the controller was not part of the install). A++
  • Avatar Amber Pack ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    Highly recommend Climatrol Air! We had a service technician out immediately on a Sunday evening when our HVAC unit went down. John gave us our options and had us completely restored with a new unit up and running in less than 2 days. It … More was a blessing to have someone take the time on their Sunday evening and deliver their promise of a wonderful unit and a cool home. Thanks so much to John and to this company for taking care of our home's STAT needs and making it happen so quickly.
  • Avatar A.N.D 2018 ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    What a great experience with Climatrol Air!
    Doug, who seemed excited to have a chance to work with us, gain our trust, and begin a possible lasting business relationship, called back that very evening to set up an estimate meeting with     … More Daniel. Daniel was so impressive with his knowledge of their product and services, kind enough to answer all our questions, and willing to take the time to go thru their process step by step.
    Climatrol Air was mid-priced of our estimates, products were similar, but the Carrier products offered and after-sale service promise, is what sold us!
    Travis, Dalton, and Phillip were so efficient, professional, and mannerly! They had our units swapped out, work areas spotless, and teaching me about this thermostat in record time. Travis went above and beyond in kindness and patience, he knows this business, the products/service they offer, and he has a love for this company. Dalton and Phillip were like busy bees, showing their knowledge of product and work to be done, and smiling while they worked.
    We definitely recommend Climatrol Air for all heating and air needs!
  • Avatar Robert Hendryx ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    Great company to deal with! Doug came and assessed our needs perfectly. They came as scheduled, and Chase, Travis, Phillip, and the entire crew executed the installation plan perfectly. They were courteous, cleaned up everything, and … More made sure they taught us how to use the system. This company and its people check all the boxes. Highly recommend!
  • Avatar Brenda Brown ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    What wonderful service representatives & company. We would highly recommend this company for your AC/Heating needs! Chad, Dalton, & Philip showed up on time, when they said they would, and were so helpful, professional, & courteous … More when our main AC unit broke. Unfortunately for us it was time for a new unit & this company had us covered! They were quick to respond, the service techs were patient with us older folks & our lack of the latest technology! They took the time to answer all of our questions & made sure we were comfortable with the new unit’s operation. Going forward we will use them for all our AC/Heating needs & questions. We could not be happier!
  • Avatar Dcbi Ivey ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    Chase and his team were excellent! We had CO leak into our AC from our generator. They came and sealed/masked every part of our ducts. This is our first time using Climatrol and have now signed a service agreement with them. I highly recommend … More this company.
  • Avatar Kathryn Cox ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Climatrol Air team showed up promptly to install a large heat pump system at my home which included a dehumidifier and an air purifier. They worked efficiently and professionally all day in the heat without any complaint. There were 5 … More guys who were all polite, respectful, and considerate of my home and left it spotless after the big job. They took the time to test and make sure all was running properly and answered all questions. I feel fortunate to have contacted them and would highly recommend Climatrol Air for any of your HVAC needs.
  • Avatar Douglas Woods ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Climatrol has my business because of the integrity and attention to detail of their people. I am a business man and do business with people and not companies. Technicians have been to my house to both service equipment that someone else … More installed and install new equipment. I initiated a service plan with Climatrol because I trust that the work will be done right by the people that represent the company in the field. Thanks to Travis and his partner that installed a Mini Split for me today and to Daniel for earning my trust with a service call during which he reseated a connector rather than changing a bunch of parts that were not needed. As long as Climatrol continues to employ such outstanding people, they will have my business.
  • Avatar Paul Hines ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Travis, Dalton, Phillip, Owen and Chase all came to install and redo a terrible "homeowner special". They all were professional and answered any question, explained any changes and were very pleasant to be around. I had two units … More installed and multiple new ducts and registers fixed and brought up to maximum efficiency. Daniel came and was professional and clear with the estimate. For this size of investment I highly recommend Climatrol and any of these awesome techs. They made a stressful situation seamless and very easy! A++++
  • Avatar Patti Clark ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Travis and Owen installed a new heating/air unit in our home. They did a fantastic job. Efficient and very knowledgeable. Took great care protecting my home and landscaping while installing the unit and removing the old unit. Took time … More to explain the new system and answer any questions. Highly recommend! Will use them again when it is time to replace our other unit.
  • Avatar Tom Yudeik ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Climatrol Air! Excellent service all around! From Daniel, who came Monday 6/17/24 to check system for master suite to Chase and Dalton who came on Thursday 6/20/24, to install new system! Fast, efficient and clean! All were courteous … More and very knowledgeable about their work. Pricing for materials and work performed was excellent, too! Left property with no trace work had been done except for the new equipment. 👍👍
    I will use Climatrol Air for any AC or Heating work now going forward 👍👍
  • Avatar Shirley Force ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    From our first phone call to Climatrol Air we have been beyond pleased. The customer service is excellent. The nicest lady ever that works in the office kept us updated on every aspect of the job including when they were on the way and … More the technicians names. Hunter diagnosed our problem and determined we had to have a new system ( our compressor went out) Travis snd Dalton arrived 3 days later (as promised) to install our new system. They were excellent. All employees are very knowledgeable and professional. Exceptional experience all around. We highly recommend this company
  • Avatar smm m ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Travis, Dalton, Phillip and Owen installed 2 units in our home. They were super nice, very efficient and made sure to protect all of our flooring. Travis took time to explain how the new systems operate and answered any questions we had! … More They also did an awesome job cleaning up everything!! Highly recommend Climate; Air!! Thanks again!
  • Avatar David Messineo ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Climatriol is a excellent company to work with. Answered all my questions, on time, clean and professional. Chase did an amazing job installing my new system. Very good at explaining the job and making sure I was informed of how the system … More worked. Would highly recommend this company.
  • Avatar John ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    We had Chase and Phillip from Climatrol Air come to replace an entire A/C unit at our home. We were provided other cost effective options if we didn’t want to replace the whole unit - which we appreciated - but we chose to replace the … More whole unit.
    Chase was very knowledgeable and thorough and I appreciated the time he took to ensure a quality installation. Both were very professional and courteous, and they cleaned up after the installation. I would highly recommend them.
  • Avatar Jackie Walsh ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I wanted to let you know that installers Chase and Owen did an amazing job installing my new Carrier A/C dual fuel system. Chase and Owen were very clean and organized with installation. They were very courteous and worked hard and explained … More the new thermostat operation. Chase and Owen did an excellent job 👏 👍 👌 and I would higly recommend this company and them to anyone. Even the owner showed up and was very helpful. I could not been asked for a better experience.
    Joe Walsh
  • Avatar Emily ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    The team at Climatrol installed a Carrier split unit for me on our four seasons porch. They also perform maintenance on all HVAC units at our home. Danny, Travis and Phillip made a great team and did an excellent job for us from the time … More we contacted Danny about a quote for purchase, as well as the installation process completed by Travis and Phillip. Phillip did a great job on assisting and cleanup. The team worked to insure that we knew how to operate the system and how to coordinate with our current system when cooling and heating. The office staff was so helpful as well. Climatrol deserves more than a Five Star review. They also coordinated the electrical portion with a local electrician.
    We appreciate the team at Climatrol. I highly recommend this company.
  • Avatar John Montaldo ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Chase and Owen were professional and courteous. They did an awesome job with the install which looks clean and neat. Daniel came out for the start up since we didn’t have power from a storm when the install was completed. Daniel and the … More owner (yes owner) came out on a Saturday to start us up once we got power. What company does this kind of service? Climatrol Air that’s who. Highly recommend this company and crew. Thanks guys.
  • Avatar Misty Quinton ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Chase and Owen were great. They came in and worked all day in the hot attic. I don't know how they didn't pass out. They were very professional and courteous. They also cleaned everything up before they left. Chase walked me through … More setting up the app for our new thermostat and made sure I understood everything before they left.
    I will definitely be recommending them from now on.
    Thank you again Chase and Owen.
  • Avatar Blended Heart ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Chase Sharpe & his crew did an amazing job installing our new home A/C & heat pump system! We couldn’t be happier with their service, workmanship, quality & pricing! Chase even helped us download the Ecobee thermostat app to … More our phones and then patiently explained to us how to wirelessly control our thermostat settings from our phones!! We give Climatrol 5-Stars!!😁🇺🇸🤠💪
  • Avatar JoRGE Tapanes ★★★★★ 7 months ago
    Excellent company to work with. Both the sales side and the service/installation side were very easy to work with. Technician was super helpful and friendly. Chase was great and walked me through everything they did and everything i needed … More to know. Would highly recomend
  • Avatar Cynthia Saunders ★★★★★ 7 months ago
    Professional, knowledgeable and personable! Chase did a phenomenal job!!!! He went way above and beyond. We are excited about our new system and very pleased with Climatrol Air.
  • Avatar George Fuchs ★★★★★ 7 months ago
    The experience from getting a new system with Climatrol was awesome. Travis and his crew were awesome and professional. The new system is great and my basement is cleaner now than when they got here. Would recommend 100%. Also would like … More to put a good word in for Chase, Dalton, Phillip and the other guys who helped with the install, each gentleman was efficient and polite. Well done Climatrol!
  • Avatar Robin Jones ★★★★★ 7 months ago
    I have had nothing but great service from this company. Zach is respectful and honest. We have used them twice in the past and today wasn’t any different from the other visits. Always professional and honest. This company is definitely … More my go to!!
  • Avatar Ouida Leech ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Climatrol installed two new systems (HVAC and a ductless unit) in our home, did it right away and with great expertise. Travis and Chase were our installers and Doug (company owner) inspected their work. We highly recommend them.

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Buyer Beware Scenarios

At Climatrol Air® we feel that we are blessed to work in an industry that is overwhelmingly ran by honest HVAC professionals with home-town values. In fact, of all of the blue collar trades out there like plumbers, electricians etc., HVAC companies rate the highest in honesty and fairness. So please do not see the following as a condemnation of our industry because most of us still do business the old fashioned way, with a handshake and personal satisfaction in a job well done.

That being said, our industry is demonstrably one of the most competitive field in the trade industry. We often joke that you can close your eyes and throw a rock and hit an HVAC company. This competitiveness drives the small guys to work for lead aggregators and big box stores and the larger companies are forced to come up with promotion after promotion to keep instep with the other “big-boys” in the industry.

This competition breeds a kind of one-upmanship in marketing gimmicks that sometimes leaves consumers scratching their head and wondering what really is the best deal on a new HVAC system. So, we have tried to outline what we feel, are the most egregious buyer-beware scenarios that consumers need to be aware of before pulling the trigger on a new HVAC system. Feel free to call us if you have questions.

There is No Such Thing as a Lifetime Warranty. This bears repeating: not one HVAC manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty with their equipment. Not one. Full stop.

When a company advertises, or promises a “lifetime warranty,” they are doing one of two things: They are selling you an after market warranty that is similar to a car warranty, or they are selling you a maintenance plan for $75 – $100 or more each month that promises to keep your HVAC equipment running.

What the “lifetime warranty” gimmick does is it conflates your HVAC payments (if you are financing) and service agreement payments. They advertise this by saying something akin to: “So as long as you pay our company $75 a month we will replace your system for free for the lifetime.” You will never have to buy another HVAC system again!

So, HVAC systems last 15 years, give or take. If you need to finance one they cost around $75 – $100 per month for three to 5 years. Now, if we do the easy math, by extending those payments out over 15 years, by continuing to pay the HVAC company, you end up paying for three HVAC systems. And, when your HVAC system becomes more costly for them to maintain than replace, they will give you another system (of their choosing). That is as long as you keep paying them $75 – $100 a month.

Also, you should be aware of the definition of a “lifetime warranty.” “Lifetime Warranty” is not for your lifetime, it’s for the suggested lifetime of the equipment. At the end of their definition of “lifetime” you will still need to buy another HVAC unit.

The most reputable HVAC brands, like Carrier, are very reliable nowadays and 99% of the time you will spend significantly less money buying the HVAC equipment and sticking with the manufacturer’s warranty.

At Climatrol Air® we offer extended warranties if you would like to purchase one. However we are very transparent about the cost of each product and will carefully explain the differences between the two. Companies that intertwine these two are usually doing it as a marketing ploy and to make more money.

Just remember that the real goal is for the customer to continue paying the HVAC company monthly for a lifetime, and as long as you do that, sure, they’ll give you a new system every fifteen years. There have been many lawsuits over these types of marketing tactics, so read the fine print carefully.

Don’t be fooled by these types of promotions. Most of the time (99.9999999%) this promotional advertising is referencing rebates that manufacturers offer on aging or their most expensive HVAC systems. Think of this like you would a car dealership. Car dealerships offer rebates on their slowest moving or most expensive vehicles in stock so they can move them to make room for newer cars.

By in large, HVAC systems, regardless of which brand you choose, can be generalized into three basic flavors:

– Economy priced
– Average priced (This being the most often sold)
– Super-Duper priced

The price difference between the first two options is negligible, and the feature differences between the two are easily justifiable leading most consumers to opt for the “average priced” unit over the economy unit for a modest increase in price.

The super-duper priced units carry the largest profit margins for HVAC companies (and not by a little bit). The FEATURE difference between the “average priced model” and the “super-duper priced models” are not as easily justified.

When you upgrade to the most expensive unit you are paying a premium price for the newest doohickies and slightly improved performance. Think of it like gasoline, the price difference between premium gas and regular gas is not easily justified, but it’s what you have to pay to get the premium gas.

The simple fact is, this year’s “super-duper” priced models will be next year’s “average priced” models without the large profit margins. So right before this change occurs, most HVAC manufacturers offer rebates on the higher priced units to make ready for the new super-duper priced models.

These rebates are available every year to HVAC companies like ours by all manufacturers, not just a lucky few as they would have you believe. Most HVAC companies (like us) simply factor those rebates into their price when giving a quote so that they can give a competitive quote.

Others use their manufacturers rebates as an advertising hook to have people think they are getting $2000 off a new system. So buyer beware, at the end of the day, after the “$2000 dollars off” promotion you are still shelling out the same amount of money that you would anywhere else and you are not coming away $2000 richer.

To be clear, we are not necessarily saying that HVAC companies that use a sales force instead of trained techs to sell their new systems are any less competent or trustworthy than us. What we are saying however, is that when problems arise, particularly in this industry, it is usually directly attributed to a miscommunication between the installers and the sales person.

Our owner, Doug Mazursky, a veteran in the HVAC industry since 1990 and a NATE certified tech, notes that the largest problem he finds is when one of the the sales people estimate that your house needed an “example 1” type of system and when in fact it needed an “example2” type of system. When this happens, the process, as well as your comfort, gets delayed. Or worse, the wrong system gets installed anyway and has to be corrected.

This miscommunication usually happens for one of two reasons. The first and most common reason is because of the inexperience of the sales person. The other reason is because the sales person is “selling to their inventory.” This means the their company has too many “example 1” systems or not enough of example 2 systems in stock and they have been told, or incentivized, to “move” example 1 systems. When this happens you may, or may not, get the best system for your home.

These problems are not uncommon to sales force centric business models. In fact, if you look at the bad reviews for HVAC companies in general, you’ll see that almost every bad review can be directly attributed to “he said, she said” or the salesperson over-promising and the company under-delivering. Climatrol Air® will never have this problem because we don’t have salespeople. We just have NATE certified techs who quote your job and then install your new system. There can be no miscommunication.

Buying hardware or garden equipment is a lot different than replacing your home HVAC equipment. That’s why the big-box stores sub out all of their HVAC jobs. They use local national and regional HVAC companies who are called “Providers.” These companies pay the store a fee or a percentage for your information, which is what they call a lead. These fees and commissions are passed along to the consumer.

Most consumers gravitate to these big-box stores for several reasons. One is for an added sense of security. They feel that dealing with a brand-named store, they will be safeguarded against shotty workmanship, or overcharged for the system. Two, is for the financing. Most of the big box stores offer credit cards with 0% interest options and they find these promotions easier on the pocketbook.

To address the financing first, Lowes uses Synchrony Bank and Home Depot uses Citibank to administer their credit cards. Meaning, once you sign up for one of their credit cards, you will be dealing with those companies, not the big box stores. Both of these companies offer the same financing promotions to independent HVAC companies, like ours, as they do the big box stores. We currently use Synchrony Bank and you can find our financing here.

To address the quality aspect, you will rarely, almost never, find a successful, well respected HVAC company working through a big-box store. Most of the companies that do work through this middleman scenario do so because they cannot find enough work locally, or they are a regional company that has a less than stellar reputation. After these companies finish the job, the box store will guarantee their work for 30 days, but after that you are going to be relying on that company for future problems.

Using a local, reputable HVAC company for your HVAC replacement is the best way to ensure that you get the best deal and a professional installation of your new HVAC system. These local HVAC companies’ ability to generate business locally is directly tied to their reputation and they protect that reputation by offering great prices and service. Without a good reputation their business will quickly dry up and they will have to find other ways to generate business, like big box store leads or lead aggregator websites like Angie’s List.

These are what the industry calls “lead aggregator” websites. A couple examples are: Angie’s List and Home advisor. While this may sound like a good idea and a great way to get competitive quotes, once you peek under the hood and see what is really happening, you may want to stick with shopping local reputable HVAC companies on your own.

You can find local reputable companies on your own by doing a quick Google search and looking at their public ratings. Google purposely lists the companies with the best reputations first. When you perform that Google search you will almost never find the companies that will call you when you shop for HVAC companies via a lead aggregator website.

Why is this? This is because lead aggregator websites do not make their “reputation” ratings public like Google and Facebook reviews. Their reviews and ratings are held and managed by them, a private company (the one that sells them leads) and they are controlled by that same company to make them money when they generate their leads (you are the “lead”).

In our industry reputation is everything. Almost everyone will seek out a review or recommendation before buying a new HVAC system. The HVAC companies that use lead generation websites like Angie’s List are either very new companies that need the business, or older companies whose public reputation does not allow them to compete with local companies with better reputations.

When HVAC companies use these lead generation websites to generate business pay extraordinarily high fees and percentages to the lead aggregator websites. These fees are always passed along to the consumer. This is why you are almost always better off dealing with a local company with a public reputation that is verifiable by an uninterested party like Facebook and Google.

Just remember, when you fill out that form on a lead aggregator website you will be submitting your private information (name, address, phone number, email address) that will be sold to dozens of companies, who you probably have never heard of, and you will get dozens of phone calls from companies for up to a couple months. Our best advice is for you to be an informed consumer, not a “lead” that is passed around by a dozen companies.

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