For nearly a century, Jennings Heating has been a trusted name in homes across Akron and throughout Summit County. Built on a foundation of service, integrity, and strong community ties, Jennings has grown from a simple idea during one of the most difficult times in American history into a full-service home services company offering heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical expertise under one roof. 

The story of Jennings starts during the Great Depression, when keeping a home warm was not always easy or affordable. Back then, furnaces ran on coal, and most families had to buy it in large quantities. The Jennings brothers saw how hard that was for many people and came up with a simple solution. They purchased coal themselves and sold it by the bucket. That small shift made heat more accessible for families who needed it most. It also set the tone for what the company still stands for today, which is helping people in practical, meaningful ways. 

Today, 95 years later, Jennings is in its third generation of ownership. Current owner Mike Foraker grew up right in the Akron area, which gives him a personal connection to the community the company serves. That local background plays a big role in how Jennings operates. Customers are not just clients, they are neighbors, and that mindset shows up in the way the team approaches every job. 

What makes Jennings stand out is not just how long they have been around, but how they have continued to grow while staying true to their roots. Over the years, the company has expanded beyond heating and cooling into plumbing and electrical services, becoming a true multi-trade provider for homeowners. That growth means families can rely on one trusted company for multiple needs in their home, instead of juggling several different contractors. It creates a more seamless experience and builds even stronger long-term relationships with customers. 

As a locally owned business, Jennings has stayed focused on doing the right thing and putting customers first. Their “Customer First Approach” is more than a phrase. It means taking the extra time to make sure homeowners feel comfortable, informed, and taken care of from start to finish, no matter which service they need. 

A big part of that approach comes from living by the Golden Rule. The team believes in treating others the way they would want to be treated, and that shows in their day-to-day interactions. Whether it is explaining options clearly or following through after a job is complete, the focus is always on building trust. Their faith also plays a role in their company culture. You will notice John 3:3 displayed on their trucks, billboards, and building as a reflection of the values they strive to live by. 

Jennings also encourages homeowners to take a thoughtful approach when it comes to caring for their homes. One of the biggest pieces of advice they share is to choose a contractor who will be there long after installation day. A heating or cooling system is not a one-time purchase. It requires ongoing support, maintenance, and service to keep it running efficiently over time. 

They also stress the importance of preventative maintenance. Regular service appointments can help catch small issues early and keep systems running smoothly. Taking care of equipment before something goes wrong can save homeowners both time and money in the long run. 

Another thing Jennings values is helping customers feel confident in their decisions. They believe homeowners should ask questions, understand their options, and never feel rushed into a choice. A good contractor should act as a guide, not a salesperson. The goal is always to help each family make the best decision for their home and their situation. 

At the end of the day, Jennings is built on trust. That trust has been earned over decades of showing up, doing quality work, and continuing to evolve to better serve their customers. Their growth into plumbing and electrical services is just one more way they are meeting homeowners where they are and making home care simpler. 

For many families in the area, Jennings is more than just a service provider. It is a company with deep roots, strong values, and a genuine commitment to the community it has served for generations.