MANSFIELD —  Eberts Heating & Cooling has made its mark in Richland County after 51 years of doing business.

Founded by Dale and Margie Eberts, the company got its start in television and appliance repair. It wasn’t until the early 70s that Eberts introduced heating and cooling equipment service and installation to its line of work, eventually becoming what the company is known for today.

Eberts’ son, Gary, joined the team in 1979 as an installer. As the years wore on, he gained more and more responsibilities and ultimately purchased the business from his folks in 2000.

Eberts specializes in cost-effective heating solutions, including geothermal, furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps. The company also provides annual maintenance contracts to ensure customers’ systems are operating at maximum efficiency.

When it comes to air conditioning, Eberts can help maintain and repair systems, or replace them completely. As factory-trained technicians, Eberts is able to provide routine periodic inspections, licensed warranty and post-warranty repairs and immediate emergency response. 

One of the challenges the company has had to overcome–like many other companies that have been in business for several decades–is the changes to technology.

“It used to be basic pilot thermocouple, now it’s electronic gas valves, variable speed blower motors…” Gary said. “Troubleshooting is a lot more technical now than it was back in the day.”

Among the high-tech products that Eberts handles are the Mitsubishi mini split HVAC units. Eberts has been installing these units since the 80s, though it wasn’t until about five years ago that the product became more in-demand by consumers. 

When asked what he’s most proud of, Eberts responded, “The service that we provide to the customers.

“We try to make them number one and make sure they’re taken care of.”

Eberts currently employs seven people, many of whom have been with the company for several years, including one who’s been there for over 30 years.

One of Gary’s goals for the new year is growing the service department–though not too much.

“I kind of like to stay smaller and not grow real quick,” he said. “I know I could, but sometimes you lose that service with the customers because you’re not taking care of them right.”

And customer service is something the company prides itself on, he said.

Eberts, which is located at 896 Ashland Rd., serves customers in a 30-mile radius.

Recently, the company was recognized as one of six Small Business of the Year finalists by the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce.

Gary was surprised when he heard the news. He said he applied for the title last year but didn’t make the cut.

According to Jodie Perry, president of the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce, Small Business of the Year finalists were rated on five criteria: customer service, employee practices, community involvement, overall business performance, and entrepreneurship (i.e. ability to overcome challenges).

“Eberts did very well in these areas,” Perry said. “Gary told a great story about how their business has changed over the years since his dad first started it. He has had many long-standing employees and has grown his business steadily by providing great customer service. They have seen good growth for the company. They have done some measured customer service surveys and have scored extremely high on those surveys.

“Overall, I think Eberts is a wonderful model of the types of small businesses that help make a community thrive. Gary is extremely hard working and community minded and we were excited to be able to put the spotlight on the great work they are doing.”