Discover the Legacy of Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning
Step into the past and explore the remarkable journey of Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning, a cornerstone of Chicago’s HVAC industry for over a century.
Founding Roots: Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning traces its origins back to 1904 when Sam Lazar established Lazar Fuel Company, delivering ice and coal to homes across Chicago using a humble horse-drawn carriage.
A Union of Hearts and Businesses: The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Sam’s daughter, Evelyn, crosses paths with Ernie Shavitz, a soldier and engineer whose B-52 was shot down during WWII. After the war, Ernie and Evelyn get married, and their post-war union not only marks a personal milestone but also a significant business merger, as Ernie joins Sam’s enterprise.
A New Direction: Ernie’s innovative spirit and dedication to service propelled the company forward. One day, exhausted from delivering 2,000 lbs of fuel oil to a second-story business by hand (or so the story goes!), Ernie had a transformative vision and saw service as the future of Shavitz HVAC. He pivoted the business towards furnace repair, thus laying the groundwork for Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning as we know it today.
Generational Expansion: With Ernie and Evelyn’s sons, Mark and Russell, joining the fold, the business flourished. Mark spearheaded residential services under E. Shavitz and Sons, while Russell and his wife, Juliet, focused on commercial services and industrial clients with R. A. Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning.
Continuity and Evolution: The tradition continued with the next generation as Bronson and Diana, Russell and Juliet’s children, embraced the family legacy of working summers during high school. Despite initial forays outside the business, Bronson and Diana found themselves drawn back, driven by a shared passion for customer comfort and satisfaction and the love of entrepreneurship.
Innovation and Growth: Bronson’s journey, learning many lessons along the way while doing Chemical Engineering at ExxonMobil and from several excellent mentors in the HVAC industry, has exemplified the company’s drive for excellence and passion for always improving (it’s one of our Core Values!). Under Bronson’s stewardship, Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning has blossomed into one of the premier HVAC contractors in the Chicagoland area, built on a foundation of customer-centric service and an uncompromising focus on quality work.
Timeless Values, Modern Expertise: Today, Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning is a testament to over a century of unwavering dedication to customer service. Rooted in the principles established by Sam Lazar, the company continues to thrive, supported by a talented team and a commitment to Always Doing Right by the Customer.
Experience the Difference: Join us as we write the next chapter in our storied history. Experience firsthand the legacy of Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning—where tradition meets innovation, and customer satisfaction is paramount.