The Best HVAC in Howard, SD

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

#1

Howard Heating & Cooling

4.8
(127 reviews)
Verified

Family-owned and operated HVAC specialist serving Howard and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Offers comprehensive heating and cooling services including high-efficiency furnace installations, AC repairs, and custom ductwork design. Known for exceptional emergency response times during harsh South Dakota winters.

412 Main Avenue, Howard, SD 57349

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
High-Efficiency Furnace Installation
Geothermal System Expertise
Ductwork Design

Business Information

Years in Business:26 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Dakota Climate Control

4.6
(94 reviews)
Verified

Full-service HVAC contractor specializing in energy-efficient solutions for Howard's extreme temperature swings. EPA-certified technicians with expertise in modern heat pumps, smart thermostats, and indoor air quality systems. Offers maintenance plans tailored to South Dakota's seasonal demands.

301 Commercial Street, Howard, SD 57349

Specialties & Features

Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Heat Pump Systems
Indoor Air Quality
Maintenance Plans

Business Information

Years in Business:18 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Prairie Air HVAC Services

4.4
(68 reviews)
Verified

Local HVAC repair and installation experts focusing on both residential and light commercial systems. Strong reputation for honest diagnostics and fair pricing. Specializes in furnace repair and replacement—critical for Howard's cold winters—and offers financing options for system upgrades.

108 1st Street West, Howard, SD 57349

Specialties & Features

Furnace Repair & Replacement
Honest Diagnostics
Residential & Commercial
System Financing

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top HVAC Contractors in Howard

Howard's HVAC market serves a rural community of approximately 1,300 residents with extreme continental climate conditions—very cold winters (often below 0°F) and hot, humid summers. This creates year-round demand for reliable heating and cooling services, with particularly high winter demand for furnace repairs and replacements. Most providers are local businesses with deep understanding of historic home systems and modern efficiency upgrades. The market is competitive with an emphasis on emergency services and maintenance plans to protect systems during temperature extremes.

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 Howard regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Howard

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

1What is the typical cost range for replacing a central air conditioner or furnace in Howard, SD?

For a standard efficiency replacement in Howard, homeowners can expect to pay between $4,500 and $8,500 for a full system, depending on the unit's size (measured in tons or BTUs) and efficiency rating. South Dakota's extreme temperature swings mean properly sized equipment is critical, and opting for a higher-efficiency model (like a variable-speed furnace or a high-SEER AC) can be a wise long-term investment for our harsh winters and humid summers, despite a higher upfront cost of $9,000+.

2When is the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance or replacement in Howard to avoid the rush?

The ideal times are during the shoulder seasons—late spring (April-May) for AC service and early fall (September-October) for furnace service. Scheduling during these windows ensures you're prepared for Howard's peak summer heat and severe winter cold before local HVAC companies become fully booked with emergency no-heat or no-cool calls. This also provides better scheduling flexibility and often access to promotional pricing.

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

While Howard follows standard South Dakota state codes, which require permits for new installations and major replacements, a key local consideration is ensuring your contractor is familiar with the specific wind loads and foundation requirements for outdoor units in our area. For rebates, check with your local utility provider, like MidAmerican Energy, for potential incentives on high-efficiency equipment, and always inquire about South Dakota's sales tax exemption for labor on residential repair and replacement projects.

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

Look for a licensed, insured, and locally established contractor with strong references from Howard or nearby communities like Madison or Canova. They should perform a detailed Manual J load calculation specific to South Dakota's climate to ensure proper sizing, not just match your old unit. Checking for affiliations with organizations like the South Dakota Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (SDAPHCC) is also a good indicator of professionalism.

5My furnace seems to run constantly during Howard's cold snaps. Is this normal, or a sign of a problem?

During extreme cold spells where temperatures drop well below zero, it is normal for your furnace to have longer run cycles to maintain set temperature. However, if it's running non-stop without reaching the thermostat setting, it could indicate issues like a dirty filter, failing components, or an undersized unit. Given the critical need for reliable heat, having a local professional perform a diagnostic is recommended to ensure safety and efficiency.