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FEBRUARY 2022 SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH: MECKO’S HEATING & COOLING

The HVAC business is booming in Greater Lafayette. If you have any doubts, just watch the advertising during local television newscasts.

But what separates Mecko’s Heating & Cooling from its competition is more than just a “Family Guy” caricature of owner Dave Mecklenburg in his TV commercials. It’s old-fashioned word of mouth from satisfied customers.

“Being locally owned and operated is also very important within our community,” Mecklenburg says. “It gives our customer base the comfort of loyalty, truth and honesty. Our phones are answered 24/7 from someone within our company who can immediately take care of their needs.”

Mecklenburg is well aware of the horror stories that a competitor mentions in their advertising. In Mecko’s case, honesty is the best policy.

“Part of being honest is to always do what is in the best interest of our customers,” he says. “We will never try to sell them what they do not need or want. We will always be honest and fair to each and every one of our customers.

“Being honest is always the best secret to a repeat customer and keeping them happy.”

Community service

Mecko’s believes in giving back to the community which has supported them for 18 years.

Mecklenburg delivers food for the food pantry, in addition to his Rotary Club service of food at Lafayette Urban Ministry.

Christmas is a busy season for Mecklenburg, too. He serves on the Christmas parade board and, yes Virginia, Mecklenburg makes sure there’s a Santa Claus for those in need with volunteer efforts for the “Shop with the Mayor” and “Breakfast with Santa” at McAllister Center.

The list of charity events supported and/or attended by Mecklenburg include the Ebony and Ivory Ball, Transitional Housing Bingo, Toast of Mental Health, Blue Knight Auction, March of Dimes and 100 Men Cookoff.

Mecklenburg serves on the Lafayette Parks and Recreation board and is an active member of St. Lawrence Church.

Their mission

When Mecklenburg entered the HVAC field, it was with a desire to help people in need.

“When I started Mecko’s Heating & Cooling almost 18 years ago, I have kept that value and instilled it in all our employees,” Mecklenburg says. “We will do all things possible to help our clients. Hearing our clients call in and say that our employee did an awesome job and was very professional while in their home is one of the most satisfying and proud moments of being a business owner in this incredible community.”

A sampling of customer reviews from Mecko’s Facebook page reaffirms that Mecklenburg’s business philosophy is well received in Greater Lafayette.

“I cannot thank Dave and his technicians enough. We had Mecko’s install a new furnace and air conditioner at the house. We received multiple options giving us the best chance to meet our family’s needs. They showed up on time and were very professional. They walked through where everything was going to go and fit. We have always had great service from Mecko’s and look forward to many years working together.” – Brad McCarter


“Professional, knowledgeable and quick service when you need it most! We love Mecko’s and the quality that they provide to us time and time again! We will always recommend them.” - Abigail Willis Tilton

“Our A/C unit stopped working. I gave Mecko’s a call , and within 15 minutes people ... They show up, diagnose the problem , swap out the part & BOOM I'm back and running again! HIGHLY RECCOMENDED! Affordable, Knowledgeable, Professional & Super Friendly.” - L.D. Miller

“Great experience dealing with these guys. Furnace went out and they were quick to get out and get going so wouldn’t be without heat. Service guys were very friendly, helpful and did an amazing job. Gave us a few options and in the end went with a new furnace. Got a nice furnace installed at a good price and even help with financing if needed! Highly recommend these guys and will be using for our future needs and services!” – Rick Arnold

Challenging times

Like every other small business in the United States, Mecko’s faced hardship during the most difficult days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was very hard to keep our employees’ morale up,” Mecklenburg says. “We couldn’t have our normal training meetings and had to do things in smaller groups. Meeting with clients was also a challenge. Last year’s pandemic gave us a new type of pride and hill to climb.”

Mecko’s expanded its social media and TV advertising to keep the business in the forefront of Greater Lafayette residents’ minds. Growing competition in the market made it vital for Mecklenburg to reinforce his business philosophy to his employees.

“All the big companies coming to town have bigger marketing budgets so we must be very vigilant to give the best customer service that we can,” he says. “With the Internet being everyone’s tool for quick and easy answers, we must be able to overcome those issues with training and service.”

Mecklenburg’s lengthy experience as a small business owner has taught him many lessons. If asked, this is the advice he would give to potential small business owners.

“I would advise other business owners to learn how to separate business and family,” Mecklenburg says. “It is very hard to separate and do both at a high level. Communication with your team and clients is paramount.

“We are very blessed to have such an incredible customer following and awesome team members. We are happy to serve the Lafayette community and look forward to many years to come.”

Location and contact information

Location: 418 ½ Sagamore Parkway N., Lafayette, IN 47904
Website: meckosheating.com
Phone: 765-447-7555

Small Business of the Month Award Ceremony

The Small Business of the Month Award Ceremony is typically held the last Wednesday of every month.

About the Small Business of the Month Program

The Small Business of the Month Program (SBOM) is designed to recognize the dedication, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit displayed by Greater Lafayette Small Businesses. The goal of the monthly award is to highlight a small business and give them extra marketing exposure to aid in growing their business.

The program is sponsored by Old National.

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