Compare the highest-rated hvac professionals in Madison, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier full-service HVAC contractor specializing in high-efficiency heating and cooling systems tailored to Madison's extreme seasonal variations. They are known for their expertise in geothermal system installation and advanced energy efficiency retrofits for older homes.
A family-owned and operated HVAC provider with deep roots in the Madison community. They offer comprehensive installation, maintenance, and repair services with a strong focus on reliable furnace performance for the harsh Wisconsin winters and efficient AC units for humid summers.
Known for their responsive 24/7 emergency service and expertise with all major HVAC brands including Trane, Lennox, and Carrier. They specialize in system replacements and optimizing existing systems for better performance and lower energy costs, a key concern for Madison homeowners.
The Madison HVAC market is driven by a continental climate with cold, snowy winters (average lows in the teens) and warm, humid summers (average highs in the low 80s). This creates year-round demand for reliable heating and cooling, with a strong seasonal emphasis on furnace services in fall/winter and AC maintenance in spring/summer. Homeowners are increasingly interested in energy-efficient upgrades and heat pumps due to rising energy costs and environmental awareness. The market is competitive with numerous providers, but high-quality, licensed, and insured contractors with local experience are consistently in demand.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Madison regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Madison, Wisconsin.
In the Madison area, a full replacement for a standard-efficiency central AC unit typically ranges from $4,500 to $8,500, while a gas furnace replacement ranges from $3,500 to $7,500. These costs are influenced by the unit's efficiency rating (SEER for AC, AFUE for furnace), home size, and ductwork modifications. Given Wisconsin's extreme temperature swings, investing in a higher-efficiency unit can offer significant long-term savings on energy bills, and local utility providers like MGE often offer rebates for qualifying high-efficiency installations.
The ideal times are during the shoulder seasons—early spring (March-April) for AC service and early fall (September-October) for furnace service. Scheduling during these windows ensures your system is ready for Madison's hot, humid summers and bitterly cold winters before peak demand hits. You'll find greater technician availability, potentially faster service, and may even secure promotional pricing, unlike during the first heatwave or cold snap when emergency calls surge.
Yes, Madison and Dane County have specific codes and permits for HVAC work. Most furnace and central AC replacements require a permit from the City of Madison Building Inspection Division to ensure safety and compliance with state energy codes (based on the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code). A reputable local contractor will handle this process. Furthermore, all refrigerants must be handled by EPA-certified technicians due to federal law, which is critical for proper AC service.
Look for a licensed, insured, and locally established company with strong reviews on platforms like Google or the BBB. Verify they carry a Wisconsin Dwelling Contractor Qualifier license. It's highly recommended to get 2-3 detailed written estimates. Ask about their experience with Madison's hard water, which affects humidifiers and boilers, and their familiarity with rebate programs from MGE or Alliant Energy. A trustworthy contractor will perform a full load calculation (Manual J) for proper sizing, not just match your old unit's size.
During periods of extreme cold, like when temperatures drop below 0°F, it is normal for a properly sized furnace to run in longer cycles to maintain your set temperature. However, if it's running non-stop and still not heating adequately, or if this happens during milder winter weather (e.g., 20-30°F), it could indicate issues like a dirty filter, failing component, or an undersized system. Have a professional perform a diagnostic to rule out problems and ensure efficiency before the deepest cold arrives.