About US

Locally Owned & Family Operated Since 1960

The Otter Guys have proudly served Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and surrounding Virginia communities for more than 60 years. Founded in 1960, our locally owned and family-operated company provides professional heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services for homeowners and businesses throughout Central Virginia.

Our long history is built on trust, skilled workmanship, and a commitment to treating customers with honesty and respect. With almost all of our team members born and raised in Charlottesville, we understand the communities we serve because they are our communities, too. We’re not just a local contractor; we’re your neighbors.

From routine maintenance and repairs to system replacements, installations, and unexpected emergencies, our team provides practical solutions designed around your property’s needs. We take the time to explain the problem, discuss your options, and help you make an informed decision about the work your home or business needs.

Our Technical Expertise

Our approach combines decades of hands-on experience with ongoing training and a commitment to quality workmanship. Whether we’re diagnosing an HVAC issue, resolving a plumbing problem, or handling an electrical need, we focus on identifying the underlying issue rather than simply treating the symptoms.

For example, one Charlottesville family came to us after experiencing persistent cooling problems, high static pressure, and repeated airflow-related thermostat errors. Our inspection revealed that the air handler was improperly sized for the home and that the ductwork was not appropriately sized either. After correcting the ductwork and replacing the inadequate air handler, the family experienced a quieter system, improved efficiency, and lower energy costs.

This is the type of work we believe in: understanding the complete problem, explaining the available options, and delivering a solution designed to perform reliably over the long term.

Why Choose The Otter Guys?

You have choices when looking for a plumbing, HVAC, or electrical contractor in Central Virginia. At The Otter Guys, we believe our long-standing reputation comes from the way we approach every job and every customer.

Generations of Expertise

Our knowledge has been built through decades of hands-on experience, family mentorship, and practical training. That experience allows us to approach a wide range of heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical needs with confidence.

Experienced Professionals

Our team of 38 experienced professionals works together to provide efficient, comprehensive service. We value collaboration and continued learning so our customers can rely on knowledgeable technicians and consistent workmanship.

Quality Workmanship

We believe in doing the job correctly rather than taking shortcuts. Our goal is to provide durable solutions that address the actual problem and give customers confidence in the work performed.

Honest, Customer-Focused Service

Clear communication is an important part of every service call. We explain what we find, discuss your options, and provide honest recommendations based on your property’s needs, goals, and budget.

Residential & Commercial Services

We serve both homeowners and businesses throughout our Central Virginia service area. Our team provides heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical solutions for a wide range of residential and commercial properties.

Help When You Need It

Some HVAC and plumbing problems cannot wait. Our team provides emergency services to help customers address urgent issues and restore comfort, safety, and functionality as quickly as possible.

Our Full Range of Plumbing Services

We use advanced technology and proven methods to ensure long-lasting results, giving you confidence that your home’s plumbing system is in expert hands. From small leaks to full system upgrades, our licensed and insured technicians are here to help with:

Water Heater Installation
Water Heater Maintenance
Water Heater Repair
Tankless Water Heaters
Drain Clog Removal
Garbage Disposal Installation
Water Filtration Systems
Gas Line Installation & Repair
Leak Detection Services
Repiping
Slab Leak Repair
Shower Installation
Sewer Line Repair
Sewer Line Replacement
Water Line Repair
Water Line Replacement
Commercial Plumbing Services
Emergency Plumbing Service

Heating & Cooling Services You Can Trust

Our factory-trained HVAC technicians handle everything from quick repairs to full system installations, working with leading brands like Carrier, Ruud, LG, and Daikin. We’re here to keep your home comfortable in every season with reliable, high-quality solutions.

Heating

Furnace Installation
Furnace Maintenance
Furnace Repair
Oil Furnace Installation
Oil Furnace Maintenance
Oil Furnace Repair
Heat Pump Installation
Heat Pump Maintenance
Heat Pump Repair
Boiler Installation
Boiler Maintenance
Boiler Repair
Emergency Heating Service

Cooling

AC Installation
AC Maintenance
AC Repair
AC Filter Replacement
Ductless AC Systems
Air Handler Installation & Repair
Emergency AC Service

Trusted Electrical Services

We provide a wide range of electrical services to keep your home or business safe, efficient, and running reliably. From troubleshooting and safety inspections to electrical panel upgrades, whole-home generators, and EV charger installations, our Central Virginia team can handle a variety of electrical needs. We take the time to understand your property and recommend the right solutions for repairs, upgrades, and new installations.

Electrical Safety Inspections
Electrical Troubleshooting
Ceiling Fan Installation
Lighting Installation
Dedicated Circuit Installation
Whole-Home Surge Protection
Electrical Panel Upgrades
Whole-Home Generator Installation
EV Charger Installation

Indoor Air Quality Services

We work with trusted brands and provide solutions tailored to your home’s needs, from whole-home filtration to UV air purifiers and humidity control. With upfront pricing, honest recommendations, and dependable craftsmanship, The Otter Guys help you breathe easier all year long.

Dehumidifier Installation
Humidifier Installation
UV Air Purifier Installation
Whole-Home Air Filtration Systems
Duct Cleaning Services

More Than Just Service Providers. We’re Your Neighbors

For more than six decades, The Otter Guys have been part of the Charlottesville community. Today, we continue that tradition while serving customers throughout Charlottesville, Albemarle County, Culpeper, Richmond, and surrounding Virginia communities.

Whether you need heating or cooling service, plumbing repairs, or electrical work, our locally owned and family-operated team is here to provide dependable solutions backed by decades of experience.

Areas We Serve