Quick Verdict
AC Direct vs Heat & Cool: Side by Side
Brands carried
AC DirectGoodman, Direct Comfort, Gree, Mitsubishi, Rheem, Revolv, Aprilaire, Honeywell
Heat & CoolGoodman, Daikin, Klimaire, Amana, LG, Midea, Airfree, Asurity, Austin Air, Clean Comfort, Colmac Coil, Consumer Priority Service, Distinctions, DiversiTech, Drain Guard, EMC, Fire Pit Art, MARS-2, Maxwell, Nest, Noritz, Pro 1, RectorSeal, Redparts.
Product range
AC DirectCentral HVAC systems, AC, heat pumps, gas/electric furnaces, mini-splits, ductwork, air filtration, mobile home AC, coils, copper tubing, components
Heat & CoolAC (split, central, package, PTAC), ductless mini splits, gas furnaces, tankless water heaters, IAQ products (cleaners, UV, humidifiers), parts, accessories
Pricing approach
AC DirectOffers contractor wholesale prices and big discounts, claiming savings of 30% to 60% off local contractor pricing by eliminating middlemen. Has a 'Price Match Promise' on qualifying products.
Heat & CoolOffers competitive prices and a 'Price Match Plus Guarantee' to meet or beat a lower price on an identical in-stock item from another authorized online reseller by 3%. Discounts and special prices are open to the public, with better pricing available for dealers. Claims to offer wholesale direct prices.
Shipping
AC DirectFree shipping over $1500 (commercial excluded); $1500 or less $60 fee; 48 contiguous states only, no AK/HI; 3-10 business days; fully insured.
Heat & CoolFree shipping to US continental states; most orders ship same day; free curbside shipping and lift gate service on all orders.
Returns
AC Direct14 days from receipt; 15% restocking fee; original taped boxes & docs required; like-new, uninstalled; original/return freight buyer's cost.
Heat & Cool90-day return for uninstalled/unused; $2.99/lb shipping fee; 15% restocking (refused) or 30% (signed-for); RMA required (15-day validity).
Warranty & support
AC DirectIncludes Manufacturer's Warranty only; no own warranty; assists with shipping damage claims; not liable for install/operation damages.
Heat & CoolDefective items handled through manufacturer's warranty; free unlimited technical support by trained specialists with over 20 years experience.
Best for
AC DirectKnown for offering wholesale pricing directly to homeowners and contractors, cutting out middlemen to provide significant savings (30-60% off local contractor pricing), and offering free shipping on system orders. They suit homeowners and small contractors looking for HVAC equipment at lower prices.
Heat & CoolBeing one of the largest online distributors of HVAC products, offering competitive prices, free technical support, free consultations, a large inventory, and being an authorized dealer. They are open to the public, not just contractors, and aim to provide efficient heating and cooling systems.
AC Direct and Heat & Cool are two US online HVAC equipment retailers that sell systems directly to homeowners and contractors, often at prices below local installation quotes. Both carry strong brand lineups, ship across the continental US, and offer price guarantees. The right pick depends on what you value most. If you want wholesale-style contractor pricing, a broad selection of systems and components, and a price match promise, AC Direct is a natural fit. If you want free technical support from specialists, a longer return window, and free lift gate and curbside service included on orders, Heat & Cool is worth a close look. The table below links to each retailer’s site so you can confirm current terms before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both retailers sell to homeowners or only contractors?
Both sell to the public. AC Direct offers contractor wholesale pricing to homeowners and small contractors alike. Heat & Cool is open to the public as well, with better pricing available for dealers.
Which retailer has the longer return window?
Heat & Cool lists a 90-day return policy for uninstalled, unused merchandise, while AC Direct accepts returns for 14 days from the date of receipt (with manufacturer approval required after that). Both charge restocking fees and have specific conditions, so check each retailer's current return policy linked in the table before buying.
Is shipping free?
AC Direct offers free shipping on orders over $1,500 (commercial products excluded), with a $60 fee on smaller orders and ductwork quoted separately; they ship to the 48 contiguous states only. Heat & Cool ships free to the US continental states and includes free curbside shipping and free lift gate service with all orders.
Who handles warranty claims?
For both retailers, equipment is covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and defective merchandise is handled through that manufacturer. Heat & Cool also provides free, unlimited technical support from trained specialists. Always read the full warranty included with your purchase.
Does either offer a price guarantee?
Yes. AC Direct has a Price Match Promise on qualifying products. Heat & Cool offers a Price Match Plus Guarantee that aims to beat a lower price on an identical in-stock item from another authorized online reseller by 3%.