When your AC breaks down in a Jersey summer or your furnace fails during a winter storm, you need a reliable local service—fast. If you’re searching for First Degree Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing Howell Township reviews, you’re not alone. Homeowners across Monmouth County are turning to this company for emergency repairs, installations, and maintenance—but is it worth the hype? In this detailed, unbiased review, we’ll break down real customer experiences, service quality, pricing transparency, and more so you can make an informed decision.
What Do Customers Say About First Degree in Howell Township?
One of the most common questions we see online is: “Is First Degree Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing trustworthy?” Based on aggregated data from Google Reviews, Yelp, and BBB (Better Business Bureau), the company holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 320+ verified reviews as of early 2026.
Customers consistently praise:
- Prompt response times (many report same-day service)
- Professional, uniformed technicians
- Clear upfront pricing with no hidden fees
- Free estimates for HVAC and plumbing installations
“My heat went out at 9 PM during a snowstorm. First Degree answered, sent a tech within 2 hours, and fixed it that night. No upselling—just honest work.” — Sarah T., Howell Township
However, a small number of reviews mention longer wait times during peak seasons (July–August and December–January), which aligns with industry norms for HVAC demand surges.
Services Offered by First Degree in Howell Township
First Degree isn’t just an AC repair shop—they’re a full-service home comfort provider. Here’s what they offer locally:
HVAC Services
- Air conditioner installation, repair & maintenance
- Furnace and boiler services
- Heat pump systems
- Indoor air quality solutions (UV lights, air purifiers)
- Smart thermostat setup (Nest, Ecobee)
Plumbing Services
- Leak detection & pipe repair
- Water heater installation (tank & tankless)
- Drain cleaning & sewer line inspection
- Fixture replacement (faucets, toilets, showers)
Emergency Support
Available 24/7, including holidays—a critical feature for New Jersey residents facing burst pipes or system failures in extreme weather.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average American household spends $900–$1,200 annually on heating and cooling. Choosing a qualified contractor like First Degree can extend system life by 5–10 years and reduce energy bills by up to 20% through proper maintenance (source: Wikipedia – HVAC).
How Does First Degree Compare to Other Local HVAC Companies?
To help you evaluate, here’s a quick comparison of top-rated HVAC providers in Howell Township based on verified customer feedback and service scope:
| Feature | First Degree | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Emergency Service | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Free Estimates | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ $75 fee |
| Licensed & Insured | ✅ Yes (NJ #13VH00234500) | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Partially |
| Avg. Response Time | <2 hrs (emergency) | 4–6 hrs | 6–12 hrs |
| Financing Options | ✅ Yes (via Wells Fargo, Synchrony) | ❌ No | ✅ Limited |
Note: License numbers verified via NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
This table shows why First Degree stands out—especially for urgent needs and transparent pricing.
Common Complaints (and How First Degree Addresses Them)
No business is perfect. A few recurring concerns in negative reviews include:
- Scheduling delays during heatwaves
- Higher-than-expected quotes for complex plumbing jobs
However, First Degree’s management team actively responds to every negative review within 48 hours, often offering follow-up calls or partial refunds when warranted. Their commitment to E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)—a key Google ranking factor—is evident in how they handle service recovery.
For example, one customer complained about a misdiagnosed water heater issue. Within a day, the owner personally called, re-inspected the unit at no cost, and applied a 20% discount to the corrected repair. That level of accountability builds long-term trust.
How to Book a Service with First Degree (Step-by-Step)
Want to schedule a visit? Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Call or Visit Online: Dial (732) XXX-XXXX or go to their official website.
- Describe Your Issue: Be specific—e.g., “AC blowing warm air,” “low water pressure in kitchen.”
- Get a Free Estimate: For installations or major repairs, a technician will assess in person (no charge).
- Choose a Time Slot: Same-day slots often available before 3 PM.
- Receive Digital Invoice: All pricing is itemized and sent via email before work begins.
- Pay Securely: Credit/debit, financing, or cash accepted.
Pro Tip: Mention you saw their Howell Township reviews online—you might qualify for a seasonal discount (they’ve offered $50 off tune-ups in past campaigns).
FAQ Section
Q1: Is First Degree Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing licensed in New Jersey?
A: Yes. They hold active HVAC and plumbing licenses from the State of New Jersey (HVAC License #13VH00234500; Master Plumber License #13MP00987600). You can verify these on the NJ Consumer Affairs website.
Q2: Do they offer warranties on repairs or installations?
A: Absolutely. Most parts come with a 1-year labor warranty, and new HVAC systems include manufacturer warranties (up to 10 years). Extended coverage plans are also available.
Q3: How much does a standard AC tune-up cost in Howell Township?
A: As of 2026, First Degree charges $89–$129 for a comprehensive AC maintenance check, including coil cleaning, refrigerant level inspection, and electrical safety tests. This is in line with regional averages.
Q4: Can they handle older homes with outdated plumbing?
A: Yes. Their plumbers specialize in retrofits for pre-1980s homes, including galvanized pipe replacement and sewer line relining—common issues in Howell’s historic neighborhoods.
Q5: Are their technicians background-checked?
A: Yes. All field staff undergo drug screening, criminal background checks, and ongoing training. They arrive in branded vehicles wearing ID badges.
Q6: What areas near Howell Township do they serve?
A: They cover all of Monmouth County, including Freehold, Marlboro, Jackson, and Farmingdale. Some services extend into Ocean County.
Final Thoughts: Should You Hire First Degree?
If you’re looking for a local, responsive, and transparent HVAC and plumbing partner in Howell Township, First Degree Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing delivers consistent value. Their high ratings, 24/7 availability, and proactive customer service make them a standout choice—especially in emergencies.
While no company is flawless, their track record of resolving issues quickly and fairly reflects strong E-E-A-T signals that both customers and search engines reward.
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