Nichols Controls & Supply Inc

Nichols Controls & Supply Inc has served the greater Des Moines commercial HVAC market for nearly two decades, earning a 4.5-star average across 57 customer reviews. The company operates as a wholesale distributor focused on contractors rather than residential walk-in customers, maintaining an account-based purchasing model. Their service territory extends across Des Moines, Ankeny, West Des Moines, and Urbandale, reflecting the broader central Iowa commercial construction corridor. Business hours run Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on weekends. This schedule supports contractors pulling equipment and controls during the standard work week, though it limits access for anyone needing weekend pickups or emergency residential service.

What sets Nichols Controls apart is their role as a dedicated commercial HVAC controls specialist rather than a generalist supply house. David Darling's review credits them as the best in the city for commercial HVAC controls and sales, and multiple contractors describe the staff as knowledgeable people who will track down hard-to-find parts efficiently. The company maintains a broad distribution network, allowing them to source equipment that may not be in stock locally. However, this commercial-only model means homeowners cannot purchase directly; an open contractor account is required to buy anything at the counter. This structure positions Nichols Controls as a supply partner for HVAC professionals rather than a retail resource for DIY homeowners.

Longtime customer Wes Morrison describes buying from Nichols Controls for 18 years, noting the staff consistently sources what he needs quickly and professionally. On the service side, Happy Jack Roach's review of a challenging dock delivery highlights that once a truck is backed in, the dock crew unloads a fully loaded 53-foot trailer within about an hour, describing the personnel as pleasant and efficient. That same review notes the physical entrance faces Redhead Road rather than the mailing address on Dean Avenue, an important detail for anyone making a delivery. One counter staff interaction drew sharper criticism from Mr McButthead, who reported a cold demeanor and reluctance to engage, noting this sentiment is shared across the local contractor community. Ryan Caris, by contrast, called the staff friendly and the service great, suggesting experiences may vary by department and individual.