The Best HVAC in Salem, NE

Compare the highest-rated hvac professionals in Salem, Nebraska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Salem Climate Control

4.8
(127 reviews)
Verified

A family-owned and operated HVAC specialist serving Salem and surrounding areas for over 25 years. They provide comprehensive heating and cooling solutions, from high-efficiency system installations to complex repairs. Known for their thorough maintenance plans that prepare systems for Nebraska's extreme seasonal shifts.

401 Main Street, Salem, NE 68433

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Geothermal System Installation
NATE-Certified Technicians
High-Efficiency Furnace & AC Upgrades

Business Information

Years in Business:28 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Heartland Heating & Cooling

4.6
(94 reviews)
Verified

A reputable contractor specializing in both residential and light commercial HVAC systems. They are a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, offering top-tier equipment known for its reliability in humid summers and frigid winters. Their team excels in solving complex airflow and ductwork issues common in older Salem homes.

222 Industrial Road, Salem, NE 68433

Specialties & Features

Carrier Equipment Expert
Ductwork Design & Sealing
Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Smart Thermostat Integration

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Prairie Air Pros

4.5
(78 reviews)
Verified

A highly responsive local team known for its prompt and honest service. They focus on repair and maintenance, offering affordable service plans to keep systems running efficiently year-round. They are a go-to for emergency furnace repairs during Nebraska's cold snaps and quick AC fixes during heatwaves.

88 Pine Avenue, Salem, NE 68433

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Repair
Budget-Friendly Maintenance Plans
Honest Diagnostics & Repairs
Boiler and Heat Pump Service

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top HVAC Contractors in Salem

Salem, Nebraska, experiences a full humid continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, windy winters. This creates a high year-round demand for reliable HVAC services, with peak seasons for AC repair/maintenance in late spring and furnace service in early fall. The local market consists of a mix of older housing stock requiring ductwork modifications and newer homes seeking high-efficiency system upgrades. Homeowners prioritize durability, energy efficiency due to temperature extremes, and contractors who offer 24/7 emergency availability.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Salem regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Salem

Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Salem, Nebraska.

1What is the best time of year to replace my HVAC system in Salem, and will timing affect the cost?

The ideal times for replacement in our climate are during the mild shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). This avoids the peak summer demand for AC and winter demand for furnace repairs, often leading to better scheduling and potential promotional pricing. Salem experiences both hot, humid summers and cold winters, so planning ahead before these extremes hit is crucial for comfort and avoiding emergency premiums.

2Are there specific local regulations or rebates in Nebraska I should know about when installing a new HVAC system?

While Salem follows Nebraska state codes, there are no unique city-level HVAC permits, but proper installation must comply with state building and mechanical codes. Importantly, you should check for available rebates from the Salem area's utility provider, Norris Public Power District, which often offers incentives for high-efficiency heat pumps or air conditioners. Additionally, federal tax credits for energy-efficient systems can provide significant savings.

3How do I choose a reliable HVAC contractor in the Salem area?

Always verify that the contractor is licensed, insured, and has a strong local reputation in Richardson County. Look for companies experienced with our specific climate challenges, such as managing humidity in summer and extreme cold snaps in winter. Ask for references from nearby homes and ensure they provide detailed, written estimates that include brand, model, efficiency ratings (SEER2 for AC, AFUE for furnace), and a clear scope of work.

4Why is my air conditioner freezing up in the Salem summer, and is this a common issue here?

Yes, this is a frequent concern due to our region's high summer humidity combined with high temperatures. The most common causes are dirty air filters restricting airflow, low refrigerant levels, or a failing blower motor. A frozen coil severely reduces cooling and can damage the compressor, so it's important to turn the system off and call a local technician to diagnose and resolve the specific issue promptly.

5What is the average cost range for replacing a furnace in a Salem home?

For a standard efficiency (80% AFUE) to high-efficiency (96%+ AFUE) furnace replacement in our area, homeowners can expect a range of approximately $4,500 to $8,500, including professional installation. The final cost depends heavily on the home's size, the unit's efficiency, the complexity of ductwork, and the specific brand. Given Nebraska's cold winters, investing in a higher-efficiency model can offer better long-term savings on heating bills from Norris Public Power or propane suppliers.