Alternative Aire Inc

This company is a dream. Everything is automated and transparent (book appts online; receive text messages when the technician is on the way; receive invoice via email with summary of service and cost breakdown; and pay online too. I noticed my problem on a weekend (of course) and was happy to be able to start the appointment process Sunday afternoon. Had a confirmed appt time by noon on Monday for the following morning.

The staff are efficient and professional. Today, Marlin explained the issue, answered all my extra questions, and fixed the unit very quickly. There's no chasing after them to see when they'll arrive or feeling like you're not sure if you can trust the recommendation. This is my second or third time using this company, and I will continue to do so. The prices are completely reasonable, especially considering the excellent service.

Was looking to switch HVAC companies and I'm glad I decided to give Alternative Aire a chance. I had a leaking condenser that was under warranty, but was told by my previous HVAC service company the part would take 6-8 weeks and would cost thousands of dollars in labor to replace! Right as temperatures were getting into the 90s. I gave Alternative Aire a call and got a labor quote for half the price.

Pretty good start :- They were also told the part would take 6-8 weeks, but Becca, the office manager, worked her magic and got it delivered a few days later! Saved me and my family from a very hot early summer. Both Becca and both service techs I met with were very professional and genuinely care about their customers. Needless to say Alternative Aire is my new HVAC company going forward.

Referred to Alternative Aire by a neighbor when my AC wasn't cooling correctly. Got a service call to the house quickly and was pleased with the service and costs. The service call was thorough, the technician was professional, knowledgeable and helpful (offered me advice on balancing my ducts and basic maintenance I could do to avoid future problems) and the problem was identified and addressed. Half a pound of coolant and some thorough cleaning, and the AC is running well again. I'll use Alternative Aire in the future.

When I called, they were able to schedule an appt next day. The technician was very polite and had the part on his truck to fix it right then. With a 96 degree day in the forecast, this was a huge relief. Reliable A/C repair is worth it's weight in gold during the summer heat. Service: A/C system repair

I have used Alternative Aire, Inc for many years and have been consistently pleased with its service. The whole experience from the phone call to report a problem to the quick, professional repair and the ease of online payment always goes smoothly.

Once again, a great Alternative Aire experience. Curtis figured out the issue within 15 minutes and fixed it right away. Best service around! Service: A/C system repair

I scheduled a routine maintenance for my HVAC system, and unfortunately an issue came up with my blower motor during the inspection. Even though my system had previously been installed by a different company, Curtis asked the office manager to see if a new one could be covered under warranty to save me some money. He came back out the very next day and installed a new motor at no cost to me.

He was professional, honest and friendly, and he explained everything to me in detail. I really feel they went above and beyond what many companies would typically do, and I will be using Alternative Aire for my HVAC needs from this point on.

We had a service contract with another company with questionable business practices. When that company informed us we probably needed to replace our two year old system, we called in Alternative Aire for a second opinion. David checked our system, advised it was in tip top order, and was the consummate professional. We will have David back next year for another pre-season check up. I can't recommend Alternate Aire highly enough.

David came to service my HVAC system. He came early, explained how I needed to take care of my system, was professional, friendly, and it was a joy doing business with him. Alternative Aire exceeded my expectations and I will be scheduling them to come again next year. Service: HVAC system maintenance

I had used Alternative Aire for repairs and maintenance before, so it made sense to consider them for a full system replacement when I was ready for that. I was given multiple quotes with different options and budgets, and all the explanation I could ask for when it came to the system and the options. I was able to find one or two places who could quote a lower total price, but could not give me the confidence and assurance of their expertise with HVAC.

I just wasn't sure those options wouldn't cost me more down the road or leave me with a less efficient or comfortable system. The install itself was very fast, less than a day. With a whole system install there will always be follow-up for tuning after the system has run for a day or two, and they were prompt and helpful in that as well. It's only been a week or so, and I'm very happy so far. Highly recommend.

Thank you for the good service I received from your company in November when I had a problem with my furnace. I'm a new Alternative Aire customer, and I'm so glad to have found a good HVAC company with excellent technicians in this area. Becca in the office was a great help in answering my initial questions about the maintenance service and then again when I had a problem with my heat during a late November cold spell. David came to my house the same day, diagnosed the problem, ordered the part, and several days later my furnace was working again.

I appreciated David's expertise and his kind commitment to restoring my heat as soon as reasonably possible. Although I read the many good online recommendations for Alternative Aire, I initially received excellent recommendations from neighbors who had used the company. I'm glad to add my recommendation and support for your company.

I had used Alternative Aire for repairs and maintenance before, so it made sense to consider them for a full system replacement when I was ready for that. I was given multiple quotes with different options and budgets, and all the explanation I could ask for when it came to the system and the options. I was able to find one or two places who could quote a lower total price, but could not give me the confidence and assurance of their expertise with HVAC.

I just wasn’t sure those options wouldn’t cost me more down the road or leave me with a less efficient or comfortable system. The install itself was very fast, less than a day. With a whole system install there will always be follow-up for tuning after the system has run for a day or two, and they were prompt and helpful in that as well. It’s only been a week or so, and I’m very happy so far.

These guys are awesome. Made a same-day appointment and they arrived ten minutes early. They diagnosed the problem in a very short period of time and talked me thru exactly what the issue was. In fact, the technician talked me thru maintenance I could be doing to prevent the same thing from happening again. They've gained my trust and we will continue to use them for both our home and rental property.

Great customer service! Fast repair and very reasonably priced. We will definitely use them for any future HVAC needs. Service: Repair HVAC

The wiring between our thermostat and furnace went bad. Our usual HVAC guy couldn't finish the job. Alternative Aire sent a tech the day after I called and it only took him an hour to fix. Pricing is average, not cheap, but not expensive either. Services: Repair HVAC, Repair thermostat

Fast, friendly, and organized. We needed service and they were out within an hour. Communication around appointment and tech arrival via text and email. Can pay the invoice with Apple Pay. Alternative Aire made everything so easy.

Our heater didn't start on the first cold day of the year, but they managed to come do the diagnostic appointment on the day that I called. The technician was friendly and helpful and fixed my problem quickly. Will definitely use them again. Service: Repair heating system

We decided to give Alternative Aire a try after hearing a good review somewhere, and always feeling like other companies were trying to unnecessary upsell us things we may not need. Curtis came out and was very friendly and knowledgable. He had our unit cleaned up really quickly and then went upstairs to investigate a wiring issue in our zone controller that we inherited when we bought the house.

While other companies had quoted us over $500 for fixing it, he just said, "Oh, I see what's going on, that's easy!" and fixed it for $30. He was a pleasure to interact with, and he treated us fairly rather than preying on our lack of expertise. They've absolutely earned my future business.

On time, excellent customer service, and don’t tell you that you need to replace or repair something that’s not broken!

I cannot say enough about the entire hassle-free process, from the dispatcher to the actual service professional, Enrique. Absolutely, hands down, the most refreshing service experience I ever had. This guy needs his own network, professional, intelligent, and highly skilled in problem solving. I will be using this company again, I have a bigger project coming up and will recommend for all of your HVAC needs.

Its honestly quiet a shame on how my customer service was handled today with the rep I spoke, especially with how highly rated their technicians are. It started off well & quickly took a dive when I began to ask her if either her or someone from technical support could answer my genuine concerns about my unit. I made it clear that I was unhappy with how she was speaking towards me & she did very little to turn the situation around nor do any better to address my concerns. I spoke to another company right after with the same exact questions & they were able to answer my concerns with a more professional attitude.

Fantastic company would highly recommend. They are honest and very trustworthy, you will not be deceived to getting quoted for more than you need with this company.

Chris came out to give me an estimate on replacing our heat pump. Definitely a no pressure estimate. He quickly turned around the paperwork. Was able to sign up for the appointment on-line. He was upfront on costs, warranties, etc. Very pleased.

We just used this company for the first time this week and were really pleased with our experience. It was really easy to schedule an appointment and we were notified in a timely manner when it had to be rescheduled because of a tropical storm. Curtis came out for an A/C tune-up and seemed to do a really thorough job. He even was able to fine tune our unit to better suit our house, making our unit quieter and put out cooler air.

I also thought the price was very reasonable and was communicated up front. We definitely plan to use them every year for our tune-up and if/when something goes wrong with our HVAC.

Alternative Aire installed my HVAC until a few years ago. I liked them so much and such a good experience that I called them when I was having trouble with my thermostat the other day. Marlin came out, identified the problem quickly, and resolved it just as quick. Excellent service, would definitely recommend.

I went a few weeks without the air conditioner and thanks to Alternative Aire for solving the issue. It took 6-7 to get an appointment due to the start of the summer so I just had to wait patiently. I believe it was Kurtis who serviced my HVAC system. He was was kind, polite, and very knowledgeable. He gave me a call ahead of time to check-in before coming over. He was able to fix the issue within an hour. I really appreciate his expertise! The customer service line was also top notch. The AC feels like new! Thank goodness for it!

Curtis is so kind and trustworthy. I have used Alternative Aire for years and feel very lucky to have found them.

We originally chose Alternative Aire because a friend recommended their service. We've continued to use them since then - and had them install our new heat pump - because of their consistently cheerful, prompt, and capable service. They're good.

They seemed honest and were willing to coming and fix our HVAC s soon as they could locate parts which they said were difficult to come by during Covid times. We'll probably use them to service our AC in time for summer.

Great, expert, and friendly service no matter how large or small the job. When the "Big Guys" who installed and maintained our HVAC systems refused to help us with some special needs, Alternative Aire jumped right in and performed the work we needed, and did an excellent job. Alt-aire is our HVAC company for keeps. Great overall!

Alternative Aire has come to the rescue for multiple air conditioning and heating crises for us in the past four years since we moved to north Durham. They are fast, cost conscious and efficient. Whoever you are using for maintaining your system if it is not Alternative Aire you should replace them immediately.

We appreciate no-nonsense, professional, dependable and efficient service from personnel who have been with this firm for years. If only we could find a landscaping firm with these attributes.

We've been using Alternative Aire for heating and cooling needs for over 3 years. The HVAC system is aging so every time there's an issue with the furnace or AC we anticipate the worst, only to be pleasantly surprised that it's a relatively inexpensive fix. They would have received 5 stars but this past summer I submitted an online service request as instructed because it was after hours and it took several days and follow up calls to get someone here to fix the AC that wasn't working during a heatwave.

After 2 visits, Freon and a new thermostat, we've been cool in the bedrooms. We plan to use Alternative Aire to replace the HVAC system. Curtis is our technician and we appreciate his honesty. Fair pricing is refreshing after years with ARS and their upselling tactics.

The team at Alternative Aire are top notch! What makes them shine most is their attention to customer service and quality outcomes. We had a mini split which failed after install through another installer in the area. After trying to get service through the original installer and failing to get any help, we called Alternative Aire. The experience was night and day!

The owner of Alternative Aire took the time to explain all potential causes of our system failure, help with a warranty replacement (even though they were not the original installers) and sent out techs to ensure we wouldn't miss anything that might otherwise have caused the concern. It was above and beyond service all the way through! The service techs were 100% on time, friendly, and helpful in explaining what was going on.

The end result was exactly what we hoped for and really shows what customer service is all about! If you need HVAC service in the area, I just can't imagine Alternative Aire being topped!

This is a great company. We have used them for over 3 years now. Enrique is very knowledgable and always thoroughly explains what is going on with you system. I highly recommend this company.

This review applies ONLY to my having used AA to conduct a Diagnostic check of my 1st-floor Gas Pack, and then consulting with owner Scott Brennan re: a proper replacement unit that would provide us with quality service for our remaining, limited time in our residence. All the functions attendant to these services-- (1) the prompt & informative 2-employee Diagnostic visit; (2) very prompt email consultations by the owner; (3) a very (overly?) comprehensive Quotation that addressed 2 replacement options, plus additional optional components & warranty coverages; (4) Diagnostic visit e-billing, and (5) e-solicitation of reviews were very efficiently (overly efficiently?) carried out. Nevertheless, I narrowed my choice of vendor to two other HVAC firms.

This was based mostly on their prices for the exact same gas pack replacement being SUBSTANTIALLY LOWER than AA's, their "softer" sell & explanation of the unit and accessory components (e.g. thermostat, modified ductwork), and their willingness to include "extras" (e.g. CO detectors, complimentary 1st-year Maintenance visit) at no extra charge-- which I suspect would not have been forthcoming from AA. I'm quite sure that Scott knows his stuff very well, is poised to "educate" you perhaps more than you bargained on, and is served by apparently very capable veteran servicemen. So, if these are things you're looking for in a local, independent HVAC Co., and you're willing to pay for it, then AA is worth considering.

Summer time in NC is no joke. We ended up having to replace our entire system last summer in the middle of August. We knew that was the case but no one (except alternative) actually took our unit apart to see why it had failed. Yeah, it was super old but it's still nice to know. We may have been able to find a slightly cheaper route but the guys (and gals) at Alternative Aire did a superior job when writing us quotes and giving us options.

They even measured our insulation to properly size our unit. They have come out twice to check on the system in order to maintain our warranty and I couldn't be more pleased!

On time and thorough service. Had a HVAC tune up on two 11 year old carrier 2 ton units. Nothing was up sold and he was very honest and gave me tips. My units checked out perfect. Some of the capacitor ratings were on threshold but didn't need replacing. I will call them again if needed.

Aaron diagnosed my problem fast, and provided top-notch service. From scheduling to completion, an awesome experience with a great company!

I woke up to a cold house and discovered that my system had stopped putting out heat at some point during the night. I had no prior experience with Alternative Aire (or any other HVAC company), and I gave them a call based on positive reviews for a local company. Not only were they able to squeeze me in for a same day visit, but they arrived within hours and were able to get my heat back up and running in just 30 minutes. they took the time to explain exactly what was wrong, what they did to fix it, and what might happen in the future with my aging system.

They also helped adjust some not-so-obvious settings on my thermostat to help make my house more comfortable. I found the price very reasonable for same day service, and I will definitely be using Alternative Aire in the future. I'm quite happy with my experience!

Alternative Aire has been my HVAC provider for several years and I will stick with them. During the recent cold spell I lost heat because of frozen pipes. They came the day after I called and did a temporary fix, then returned to complete the job. They always give a complete explanation of what they are doing.

These guys are great at problem solving. So, I would recommend them if you have something going on that others can't figure out. Scott and his technicians will take the time to try to fix your system before trying to sell you a new one. But, I have not been happy with their routine service guys. While I would likely use them again if I have a mechanical problem that needs a second opinion for diagnosis, I am going back to my old company for my regular service so I can have consistent, quality routine service.

The technician arrived on time and checked and performed a tune-up on both of our HVAC units in just an hour or so. He was very polite and professional, took his shoes off inside the house (which I particularly appreciated since it was a bit wet/muddy outside), and just overall provided great service. We'll definitely schedule them again for an A/C tune-up and check in the spring!

The contractor who sealed my crawl space recommended Alternative Aire to rid my house of an odor that was coming from my vents, a problem that I've had intermittently for days at a time since the heat pump and duct work were replaced about 5 years ago. The problem was becoming more frequent and was lasting longer each time. I called the HVAC company that installed the unit several times over the past few years as well as a couple of other HVAC companies.

No one could find any reason for the smell. The technician from the installing company said that he had never heard of anyone having this type of problem, and the technician from the other companies suggested that I have the ducts cleaned. Enrique from Alternative Aire checked the system and found the cause not only of that horrible smell but, without my mentioning other issues, he also solved the problem of uneven distribution of heat and air conditioning throughout the house and also the higher humidIty level on one side of the house.

All these problems were solved within about a half hour and for less than $100 (no new parts needed). Enrique saved me a lot of unnecessary expense, trouble and worry about the impact of the odor on my health (and sanity!). I am very thankful to Enrique and to Alternative Aire. I wholeheartedly recommend Alternative Aire for diagnosing problems, routine servicing and really anything at all related to an HVAC system.

Almost exactly 2 years ago, I had Alternative Aire install a brand new HVAC system in our home here in Durham - look down the list of reviews here to see my original review. We've just recently had AA back out to add a second zone to the system, and we couldn't be happier. As everyone else here has stated, Scott Brennan's team is top notch; they're friendly, patient, and professionals all the way around.

I was working from home during this most recent dual-zone upgrade service, and was unfortunately caught on a conference call when the AA crew was finishing up their work for the day. The crew was patient with me as I tried to finish up my own work that day, and graciously walked me through everything they had done. One of the best contractors you can call for one of the most important/expensive/integral parts of your home!

Scott was referred to me by another business owner. I have been having some issues off and on for several years with a space in my building. The other contractor merely fixed or replaced things, never seeing why things continued to occur. Enough was enough, Scott came out, performed diagnostics, reviewed mechanical drawings and determined the design was less than adequate.

He modified the zones, replaced the bad unit, and things are finally working like they are supposed to. I couldn't be happier. Best part is the communicate, explain things and don't just throw money at problems. They do what they say. I'd recommend them to anyone.

I called this company to do a tune-up for our heat (part of a regular HVAC system). The tech did the service for the tune-up and pointed out the status of the capacitors. One clearly needed to be replaced and the other was on the edge of needing replacing. Since the second one seemed to be original (yikes!), I opted for both to be replaced. The tech was patient with me and was very explanatory about everything (which I greatly appreciated). I will definitely be calling them again!

I was very satisfied with the quick response and solution for my HVAC system that froze up and stopped working. The technician was extremely courteous, considerate, and explored all available options in diagnosing the cause of the problem and going over the available solutions. The technician also made recommendations for better use and things to look out for. I would not hesitate to call them again and would refer them to others.

I've lost track of the many ways Alternative Aire has exceeded our expectations. We are particularly grateful for this local company's expert and ethical technicians who DO NOT make commission off selling us parts. Call them.

Alternative Aire assisted the replacement of a furnace circuit board in the middle of winter. The process for scheduling was superb and easy. They returned my call within 15 mins of leaving a message. The troubleshooting did not lead to a certain root cause. They gave me a best case (cost) scenario and a worst case with prices and timelines. No guessing, no smokescreens.

They applied the fix and it held for 48 hours then busted again. I called back and explained the situation and they came back and fixed without additional charge. This is the kind of service that warrants recommendations: fair prices, up front cost estimates and reality checks on issues, as well as standing behind their work without charging extra. This is one of the best experiences I have had with this type of service regardless of where I have worked in the US.

Scott and his team have been keeping our Heating & AC in tip-top shape since we bought our house ten years ago. They are fair priced, honest, and do the work right the first time! The staff is courteous and knowledgeable so they easily build trust. Unlike many other places they don't offer needless annual service warranties, which we fell for with other places.

Instead we do an annual tune-up (for the AC and then in the fall for the heating) and they always run a discount price. Those tune ups are a cleaning and making sure the system is running properly, the maintenance to make sure all is well before we fire them up and really have added life to our system. We've been very pleased with how well they've taken care of it, so much so that I can't imagine letting anyone else even touch it!

Finally an HVAC company to trust! The heat was out in a rental home I own in Durham, and I had called another company ( a very well known company) to come out and diagnose the problem. This other company, diagnosed the gas pack I have with a bad ignitor module and bad spark ignitor. They said those parts had to be ordered and replaced, which would cost a whopping $1,088.They also suggested I consider replacing the entire HVAC system.

I then called Alternative Aire for a second opinion. Unfortunately, they diagnosed the gas pack with the same issue, but minus the spark ignitor. The difference is, they didn't try to add an unnecessary part, and they charged me less than $300 for the repairs. That is quite a price difference from the $1,088 the other company was asking! Not only that, but with this bitter cold we've been having, they went out to the house the day before they were scheduled, which was a blessing, and had the part replaced by the next morning. From now on, I will only use Alternative Aire.

I use Alternative Air both at home and for the office. I have enjoyed getting to know all of the staff and technicians. They have always done great work. They show up on time and clean up after themselves. They get the work done at very reasonable prices. A real breath of fresh air in the service industry.

Alternative Aire has always taken great care of me , from little things like yearly check-ups and they went beyond the call when i had major issues. Its rare to find such a trustworthy crew .. I highly recommend

Quality and honest service at an affordable rate. Technician took time to explain everything, and gave honest recommendations. I felt no upsale pressure. Everyone was extremely helpful and friendly. Would recommend!

This company is quick to respond to online requests for appointments. Every employee I've encountered seems quite knowledgeable and ready to answer all of my questions. Also, the technician was diligent about mask usage while indoors.