Compare the highest-rated hvac professionals in Strafford, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Full-service HVAC contractor specializing in high-efficiency heating systems crucial for Vermont winters. Offers complete installation, maintenance, and repair services for all major brands with expertise in cold-climate heat pumps and oil furnace systems.
Family-owned HVAC company with deep roots in the Upper Valley region. Specializes in heating system replacements, ductwork design, and precision AC services. Known for expertise with propane and natural gas systems alongside traditional oil heat.
Energy efficiency-focused contractor providing advanced HVAC solutions for Strafford's variable climate. Offers geothermal feasibility studies, mini-split installations, and comprehensive indoor air quality services alongside traditional furnace and AC work.
Strafford's HVAC market is characterized by high demand for reliable heating systems due to harsh Vermont winters with average temperatures below freezing. The short but occasionally humid summers create AC needs, though heating remains the primary concern. Most homes use oil, propane, or wood primary heat with increasing adoption of cold-climate heat pumps. Energy efficiency is a significant driver due to high heating costs. The market consists of approximately 25 providers serving the town and surrounding areas, with strong competition for quality installation and emergency winter service.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Strafford regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Strafford, Vermont.
The ideal time is during the late spring or early fall (May-June or September-October). Strafford's harsh winters mean HVAC companies are extremely busy with emergency repairs from November through March. Scheduling your installation during these shoulder seasons ensures better availability, often quicker service, and allows you to avoid the last-minute rush before the cold sets in. This timing also gives you a chance to test your new system before you truly depend on it.
Absolutely. Many historic homes in Strafford have older insulation and drafty windows, making system sizing and efficiency critical. A proper Manual J load calculation is essential to avoid installing an oversized or undersized system. Given Vermont's long, cold heating season, investing in a high-efficiency (AFUE 95%+) furnace or a cold-climate air-source heat pump can lead to significant long-term savings on fuel oil or propane, despite a higher upfront cost.
Vermont has strict regulations on the handling and disposal of refrigerants, which licensed contractors must follow. More importantly, you should inquire about state and utility incentives. Efficiency Vermont offers generous rebates for installing qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps, boilers, and furnaces, which can substantially offset your project cost. Always ask your HVAC provider about current rebate programs for which your home may qualify.
Prioritize local, established companies familiar with the challenges of Vermont winters. Verify they are licensed, insured, and hold necessary certifications (like NATE). Ask for references from homes of similar age and size in the area. A reputable contractor will perform a detailed home assessment, provide a written, itemized estimate, and clearly explain their recommendations rather than just giving a price over the phone.
Yes, this is a common concern. Standard air-source heat pumps lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures drop, typically below 25-30°F. For Strafford's climate, where temperatures frequently fall below this, a properly designed system is crucial. The best solutions are either a "cold-climate" heat pump model specifically designed for Vermont winters or a hybrid system that pairs a standard heat pump with a fossil fuel or electric backup furnace to efficiently handle the deepest cold snaps.