The Best HVAC in Amherst, SD

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

#1

Amherst Climate Control

4.8
(112 reviews)
Verified

A full-service HVAC contractor specializing in high-efficiency heating and cooling systems tailored to the harsh South Dakota climate. They offer comprehensive installation, repair, and maintenance services for all major brands, with a strong focus on energy-efficient solutions to combat extreme seasonal temperature swings.

201 Main Street, Amherst, SD 57421

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Geothermal Systems
High-Efficiency Furnace Installation
Smart Thermostat Integration

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Prairie Home Heating & Cooling

4.6
(87 reviews)
Verified

A family-owned and operated HVAC provider known for reliable furnace repair and installation, crucial for Amherst's cold winters. They are certified dealers for Lennox and Trane systems and are experts in heat pump technology and duct sealing to improve home comfort and reduce energy costs.

450 Dakota Avenue, Amherst, SD 57421

Specialties & Features

Furnace Repair & Installation
Heat Pumps
Ductwork Design & Sealing
Boiler Services

Business Information

Years in Business:22 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

First Choice Mechanical

4.5
(64 reviews)
Verified

A versatile contractor providing a wide range of HVAC services, including AC tune-ups to prepare for the humid summers and emergency furnace repairs for sudden winter breakdowns. They are EPA-certified for refrigerant handling and specialize in optimizing existing systems for better performance and air quality.

101 Service Road, Amherst, SD 57421

Specialties & Features

AC Maintenance Plans
Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Emergency Repairs
HVAC System Optimization

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top HVAC Contractors in Amherst

The HVAC market in Amherst, SD, is heavily influenced by its continental climate, featuring bitterly cold, long winters with significant heating demands and warm, humid summers requiring effective cooling. This creates a year-round need for reliable HVAC services, with peak seasonal demands for furnace repairs in winter and AC installations/maintenance in late spring. Providers must be well-versed in high-efficiency systems, including geothermal and heat pumps, to help homeowners manage extreme temperature fluctuations and energy costs effectively. The market is served by a mix of local dedicated HVAC companies and larger regional providers from nearby Aberdeen.

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 Amherst regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Amherst

Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Amherst, South Dakota.

1What is the typical cost range for replacing a furnace in Amherst, and why might it vary?

In the Amherst area, a full furnace replacement typically ranges from $4,500 to $8,500, including installation. The final cost depends heavily on the unit's efficiency rating (AFUE), with high-efficiency models being a wise investment for our cold South Dakota winters, and the complexity of the installation in your specific home. Prices can also fluctuate based on the season, with potential for higher demand and cost during the early fall rush before winter hits.

2When is the best time of year to schedule HVAC maintenance in Amherst?

The optimal times are during the shoulder seasons—specifically late spring (after heating season) and early fall (before heating season). Scheduling your air conditioner tune-up in May or your furnace check in September ensures your system is ready for the extreme summer heat or bitter winter cold and helps you avoid the peak-season rush when local HVAC companies are busiest with emergency breakdown calls.

3Are there any local regulations or rebates in South Dakota I should know about for HVAC upgrades?

While Amherst itself doesn't have unique local codes, South Dakota follows the International Residential Code (IRC) for HVAC installations. Importantly, check for available rebates from your local utility provider, such as Northern Plains Electric Cooperative or MidAmerican Energy, which often offer incentives for installing high-efficiency heat pumps or furnaces, helping offset the initial investment.

4How do I choose a reliable HVAC contractor in the Amherst area?

Look for a licensed, insured, and locally established contractor with strong references from Amherst or nearby communities like Aberdeen. A reputable provider will perform a detailed load calculation (Manual J) for your specific home, which is critical for our climate, to ensure your new system is neither undersized nor oversized. Always verify they carry proper liability insurance and worker's compensation.

5My heat pump seems inefficient during our coldest weeks. Is this normal for Amherst winters?

Yes, this is a common concern. Standard air-source heat pumps lose efficiency as temperatures drop below freezing, which is frequent during a South Dakota winter. For our climate, a properly sized and installed cold-climate heat pump model is essential, or more commonly, a dual-fuel system that pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace for a backup is recommended for optimal comfort and efficiency when temperatures plummet.