The Best HVAC in Portsmouth, VA

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

#1

Tidewater Climate Control

4.8
(142 reviews)
Verified

A premier, full-service HVAC contractor serving Portsmouth and the greater Tidewater area. They specialize in high-efficiency system installations, complex ductwork design for older homes, and 24/7 emergency repairs. Their technicians are NATE-certified and deeply familiar with the corrosion challenges posed by the coastal, humid climate.

4550 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23702

Specialties & Features

24/7 Emergency Service
Coastal Climate HVAC Systems
High-Efficiency Installations
Ductwork Design & Sealing

Business Information

Years in Business:22 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Portsmouth Heating & Air

4.6
(118 reviews)
Verified

A locally owned and operated company known for its reliable repair and maintenance services. They offer comprehensive annual maintenance plans tailored to the demanding summer AC season and offer financing options for new system installations. They are a Bryant® Factory Authorized Dealer, ensuring quality equipment and warranties.

3205 Airline Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23701

Specialties & Features

Bryant® Factory Authorized Dealer
Preventative Maintenance Plans
Furnace & Heat Pump Repair
Energy Efficiency Audits

Business Information

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

Coastal Comfort Solutions

4.5
(96 reviews)
Verified

Specializes in modern, energy-efficient HVAC solutions, including advanced heat pumps and smart thermostats ideal for Portsmouth's mild but humid winters and hot summers. They focus on improving indoor air quality, which is a significant concern for allergy sufferers in the region. They are EPA-certified for handling refrigerants and are a Mitsubishi Electric® Diamond Contractor.

1021 London Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 23704

Specialties & Features

Mitsubishi Electric® Diamond Contractor
Heat Pump Experts
Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Smart Home HVAC Integration

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top HVAC Contractors in Portsmouth

The HVAC market in Portsmouth, VA, is characterized by high demand due to a hot and humid subtropical climate. Summers are long and demanding on air conditioning systems, requiring robust and efficient cooling. Winters are generally mild but can have cold snaps, necessitating reliable heating, often via heat pumps or furnaces. The coastal location accelerates wear and corrosion on outdoor units (condensers), making regular maintenance and corrosion-resistant installations critical. The city's historic housing stock also creates a strong demand for skilled ductwork modification and sealing services. The market is competitive with numerous providers, but reputation for reliability and emergency service is the key differentiator.

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 Portsmouth regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Portsmouth

Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Portsmouth, Virginia.

1What is the typical cost range for replacing a central air conditioner or heat pump in a Portsmouth home?

For a standard single-family home in Portsmouth, a full replacement of a central AC or heat pump system typically ranges from $5,500 to $12,000. The final cost depends heavily on the home's size, the system's efficiency (SEER rating), and the complexity of the installation. Given our humid, hot summers, investing in a higher-SEER, properly sized unit from a reputable local contractor is crucial for long-term efficiency and comfort.

2When is the best time of year to schedule HVAC maintenance or replacement in Portsmouth?

The ideal times are during the mild shoulder seasons of early spring (March-April) and early fall (September-October). Scheduling service during these periods ensures your system is ready for the peak summer heat and winter chill, and you'll find greater technician availability and potentially better scheduling flexibility and promotions compared to the high-demand summer and winter months in Hampton Roads.

3Are there any local Portsmouth or Virginia regulations I should know about for HVAC installations?

Yes. In Portsmouth, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Furthermore, all installations must comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), which includes specific requirements for equipment sizing, ductwork, and electrical connections. A reputable local provider will handle all necessary permits and inspections with the City of Portsmouth's Permits & Inspections division.

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

Always verify a contractor holds a valid Class A, B, or C Virginia DPOR license. Look for established local companies with strong community reputations, ask for references from Portsmouth neighbors, and ensure they perform a detailed Manual J load calculation specific to our coastal climate. This calculation is essential to account for our high humidity and prevents installing an incorrectly sized system.

5My system is running but not cooling effectively on very hot Portsmouth days. What could be the issue?

This is a common concern during our intense summer heat waves. The most frequent causes are a dirty air filter restricting airflow, low refrigerant levels due to a leak, or a dirty condenser coil (the outdoor unit). Portsmouth's high pollen count and salty, humid air can cause coils to clog quickly. Start by checking/changing the filter, then call a professional to diagnose refrigerant levels and clean the coils for optimal performance.