How to Build a Local SEO Strategy for HVAC and Plumbing Contractors
Intro
Your future customers are searching Google right now for things like “AC repair near me” or “emergency plumber in Columbus.” If your business isn’t showing up in those local search results, you're handing jobs to your competitors.
That’s where Local SEO comes in. This guide walks HVAC and plumbing contractors through an actionable, step-by-step local SEO strategy—so your business ranks higher, gets more calls, and books more jobs.
Step 1: Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
Your Google Business Profile is your first impression online. It appears in Google Maps and the local “3-pack” (those top listings you see on a map). If this isn’t fully optimized, you’re losing visibility.
Checklist:
Use your exact business name
Add accurate service area and categories (e.g., “HVAC contractor,” “Plumber”)
Upload high-quality photos of your team, trucks, and work
Post updates weekly (promos, seasonal tips, etc.)
Respond to all reviews—positive or negative
Tool Tip: Use Whitespark to generate a direct review link you can send to happy customers.
Step 2: Target Local Keywords on Your Website
Generic keywords like “plumbing services” are too competitive. Instead, use geo-targeted keywords like “plumbing services in Dublin, OH” or “furnace repair Worthington.”
Where to use local keywords:
Page titles (e.g., “HVAC Services in Columbus, OH”)
H1/H2 headers
Image alt text (e.g., “HVAC technician in Hilliard installing furnace”)
Meta descriptions
Throughout your homepage and service pages (but naturally)
Tool Tip: Use Ubersuggest to find local keyword ideas and search volume.
Step 3: Build Local Landing Pages for Each Service Area
If you serve multiple cities or suburbs, don’t cram them all on your homepage. Instead, create dedicated pages like:
HVAC Services in Dublin, OH
Emergency Plumbing in Grove City
Water Heater Installation in Westerville
Each page should include:
City-specific headlines
Local project photos
Customer reviews from that area
A call-to-action tailored to that service area
Step 4: Get Listed in Local & Industry Directories
Citations (mentions of your business name, address, and phone number) help Google confirm your legitimacy. The more consistent your info is across the web, the better.
Must-have directories for contractors:
Any local contractor associations
Step 5: Collect and Leverage Customer Reviews
Google reviews are one of the strongest ranking factors for local SEO—and they also convert customers.
How to get more reviews:
Ask every customer when a job wraps up
Text or email them a direct review link
Offer a small incentive (discount on next service, entry into a giveaway, etc.)
Respond to every review to build trust
Step 6: Create Helpful Local Content
Blog posts and FAQs build credibility and improve SEO. Examples:
“How to Choose the Right Furnace Size for Your Columbus Home”
“5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Plumber in Powell”
“Why Your Westerville AC Might Be Leaking (and What to Do)”
Pro Tip: Use these posts to link back to your service pages and include city-specific mentions.
Related: 5 Common Workflow Mistakes That Are Costing Your Contracting Business Money
Step 7: Track Results with Google Analytics & Search Console
You can’t improve what you don’t track. Set up Google Analytics and Google Search Console to measure:
Website traffic
Top pages
Keyword rankings
Mobile vs. desktop users
Where your leads are coming from
Conclusion
Local SEO isn’t just about being online—it’s about being found by the right people in your target area at the right time. By optimizing your website, Google Business Profile, and local listings, you’ll build a steady stream of leads and grow your reputation in your market.
Want help with your Local SEO strategy?
Book a free consultation with Columbus Business Consulting, and we’ll build your plan together.
