Our Company History

Back in 1920, a young 20 year old Vearl J. Manwill loaded up a horse drawn wagon with a load of pipe and a crate of carbide lights and headed out on his own. Vearl traveled from farm house to farm house, living with each family for days while he installed the “then modern” carbide lanterns and piping for the first indoor lighting!

When the first gas line came to Salt Lake, Vearl worked for the gas company laying the new gas pipes. Once the gas line was completed he settled in Salt Lake City with his first garage located on 2700 south in Salt Lake. In 1943, Vearl opened his first showroom located at 365 east 300 south. Since the bank would not loan money for just selling plumbing and heating goods, Vearl had to open a complete hardware store, including appliances and jewelry! Vearl purchased one of the first black and white television sets and displayed it in his showroom window. After work Vearl would go home, eat dinner then return to the office to turn the television off. Crowds of people were gathered around his business to see the new invention. This helped spread his name throughout town and soon business was booming! As business kept improving, he eventually discontinued the appliances and displayed what he did best, plumbing and heating!

Vearl’s son James took over the business in the late 50’s. James expanded the business to include forced air heating and air conditioning. James moved the business in 1965 from 300 south in Salt Lake City to its present location on 3900 south. Through the building boom of the 70’s James contracted a large part or the new construction in the Salt Lake Valley. James’ wife Lorina worked alongside James for many years.

Although James was a business man, he also enjoyed the lighter side of life with practical jokes and a great sense of humor. He kept employees and customers on their toes with his jokes. It’s a good thing Lorina was there to keep James in line when his ambitious ways needed a little redirection.

Jim Manwill, Vearl’s grandson, took over the business in the mid 90’s. His dedication to customer service, great products and employee training Jim quickly grew the company to over 45 employees. Jim’s attention to detail and his generous ways earned him many recognition awards by several manufactures, Best of State, Super Service Awards and countless others.

Jim’s wife Terry, although she didn’t work in the business she was an excellent business partner. She spent countless hours and many late evenings at the office giving support and helping develop new marketing strategies and moving the business into the new “digital age”.

Brian Jackson, fourth generation and Jim’s nephew took over as general manager in 2018. Michelle Hortin, Jim’s long term assistance took over many management responsibilities as well. As a team, Brian and Michelle plan to continue concentrating on providing the best customer service with reliable products and clean, quality craftsmanship. They are dedicated to keeping up with the ever-improving technology of the Heating and Air industry.

Brian and Michelle intend to keep the proud traditions of community involvement, generosity, honesty and a great customer experience for decades to come.