Living green means many different things to many people. It’s good for our environment as well as our health, and it can improve the lives of future generations. You might want to start with the center of your home by installing a geothermal heating and cooling system from Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning. Many newer housing developments are installing them as an economical and environmentally friendly way of heating and cooling their homes.

Geothermal heat pumps work by installing pipe loops deep underground and heating and cooling the home from the core temperature of the earth, which averages around 55 degrees year-round. Therefore, you have a consistent energy base that uses less energy, less gas, and works more efficiently, says Teri Hannas, office manager and customer of Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning.

Teri describes her geothermal unit as having nice, constant heat and air. She also says that it’s so quiet that you don’t even know it is running unless you stand in front of the vent. While the installation cost is generally higher than it is for a conventional system, “It’s well worth the payback,” she remarks.

Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning has been in business for about 70 years. It was bought out by the current owner, Matt Hines, in 1984. He kept the name because of the company’s reliable reputation, Teri says. Matt expanded the business to its current 20 factory-trained and licensed technicians and 15 fully equipped service vehicles. The company provides service for the Quad Cities and surrounding area. Teri adds that they are literally willing to go the extra mile, such as when they recently did a weeklong installation job for a customer in Tennessee.

In addition to geothermal systems, Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning also offers more traditional services, such as heating and air conditioning unit installation and repair, duct cleaning, boilers, generators, food service equipment, commercial refrigeration units, and more. The company offers reliable brands like York, Trane, and ClimateMaster, and includes a 10-year warranty on parts the employees install.

Matt first started working with Doug Smith, the original owner and founder, in 1979. He was trained hands-on by Doug, and then attended school to become a licensed technician. His first priority is to please the customer, he says. “Whatever the customer wants the customer gets. We can do anything.” His employees share this same philosophy, he adds. “Being around good people makes a difference.”

His staff’s devotion to quality customer service is appreciated with daily thank-you cards and letters they receive, such as this one from Sheila: “I would like to send my sincere thanks and appreciation for expediently repairing my heating and A/C unit. I will definitely spread the word to others in your area.”

Jim Monteyne had a new air conditioning unit installed in early June. He describes the technicians as a “super honest bunch of people.” He continues that they are very efficient and get the job done in a timely manner. “I’ve never had a problem with the equipment or the people,” he shares. Jim has been familiar with Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning for at least 25 years. He remarks, “Matt has done a lot of good, hard work to make the company grow and become what it is today.”

Dana Clearman, a realtor with Re/Max River Cities in Bettendorf, calls on Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning exclusively for furnace and AC unit inspections, as well as for repairs needed to complete real estate transactions. Dana explains, “I really rely on them a lot for service because I know they are consistent and their pricing is competitive.” He says that when dealing with real estate transactions, there are a lot of time-sensitive dates and emotions can run high for both parties involved. Two families’ lives are hanging in the balance, he says, so he looks to someone who he knows is dependable. “When you find people in business like that, you develop a trusting relationship with them.” Being able to call on someone with whom you have a personal connection makes a big difference, he continues. “When I call on Doug’s I know what I’m going to get.”

Having a proper heating and cooling system is not only necessary for your physical comfort, but it can improve the quality of life for those afflicted with a variety of health issues, Teri says. Individuals with severe asthma need to be able to keep cool in the summertime. For that reason, air purifiers can be installed to help other severe breathing conditions, as well as those easily susceptible to disease.

High humidity and heat can affect the pain level of people with conditions like fibromyalgia, Teri states. On the other hand, extreme cold can slow down those who have rheumatoid arthritis and related issues. Whole-house generators can be beneficial during extended power outages, allowing you to keep your food from spoiling and keeping you and your family from being impacted by extreme temperatures.

Whether you are aiming for greener living, need commercial-grade refrigeration units, or simply desire the comfort of a well-cooled and heated home, Teri says you can depend on Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning for quality products, expedient service, and courteous clean-up. Go to www.dougsheatingandairconditioning.com for more information on the many services the company provides.

While visiting the Web site, you might want to take a few minutes to click on the “Your home investment calculator” link, answer a few simple questions, and receive an energy and carbon savings proposal. On the home page, you will also find details and a number for more information on federal rebate options when buying specific products. A special feature on the site is advice to help improve your home’s heating and cooling efficiency. In addition, there is an explanation about how geothermal heat pump systems use the energy from the earth to save you money. There is also a link for more information.

Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning is located at 4530 River Drive in Moline. Call Teri at 309-764-2500 to schedule an appointment or for more information. The hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Emergency service and repair is available 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.

If you’re not sure what type of solution would be best for your home or business, you might want to talk to Matt or one of the technicians at Doug’s Heating & Air Conditioning. Teri says that they will give you a reliable estimate and offer you personalized replacement options with your best interests in mind.