American Refrigeration Supplies Inc (ARS)

American Refrigeration Supplies Inc (ARS) operates as a wholesale HVAC and refrigeration parts supplier from their Norfolk location at 2632 E Chambers St, serving the Hampton Roads region and surrounding Virginia communities. Founded in Phoenix, Arizona in 1940, the company has accumulated over 85 years of industry experience and currently maintains 33 branch locations across seven states. The business holds a 4.5-star rating derived from 17 customer reviews. Unlike retail HVAC companies, ARS exclusively serves licensed contractors and qualified service technicians, functioning as a B2B distributor rather than a direct-to-consumer operation. Their Norfolk store maintains standard business hours Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM, with weekend availability by appointment for emergency situations.

What distinguishes ARS from typical HVAC retailers is their wholesale distribution model combined with an extensive in-stock inventory that serves professional technicians rather than homeowners. The company offers product lines spanning HVAC equipment, refrigeration components, controls and parts, filtration systems, food service equipment, and specialized tools and instruments. Their stated mission emphasizes delivering exceptional value through a knowledgeable customer service team and maintaining broad inventory of high-quality products at fair prices. With 33 locations nationwide including their Virginia branch, ARS provides contractors with access to equipment, parts, and supplies across multiple specialized categories without the overhead of traditional retail operations.

Customer reviews highlight the practical value of ARS for professional technicians facing time-sensitive situations. One reviewer, Mike Walck, documented how he needed a Sporlan OVE-10 TXV valve for a process chiller on a Friday evening, and technician Fred verified inventory and met him at the Norfolk store at 7 AM Saturday morning to complete the transaction. Another reviewer, Jesse D, noted the team helped resolve circulation issues on a residential system, describing the staff as great guys and very knowledgeable. These scenarios demonstrate the flexibility and technical expertise available to contractors who establish accounts with ARS, though prospective customers should note the business does not sell directly to residential homeowners.