Small Business Spotlight: Synergy, a Family-Run Business Helps Community Stay Cool as Business Heats Up

In Florida's humid, subtropical climate, residents understand the importance of proper air conditioning and ventilation. Blazing temperatures and other extreme weather can make life miserable for homeowners without a quality HVAC system.

For Roy and Samantha Durkee, the founders of family-run Synergy Heating and Cooling in Deltona, Florida, owning an HVAC company provides the opportunity to help more people access trusted HVAC products and services.

“I am my brother's keeper, I believe that," said Samantha. “We don't just look out for our business; we help our neighbors."

In fact, the husband and wife team recently created a fundraiser supporting a new widow who needed an air conditioner. Thanks to a donation from the Durkees and the generosity of friends and neighbors, the Synergy team was able to purchase and install a three-ton unit that can withstand the brutal Florida heat. The fundraiser is just one example of the couple's everyday commitment to their community.

“With each customer interaction, we showcase our skill, knowledge, gratitude and family morals," Samantha said. “Roy is passionate about helping people. If someone calls at 2 a.m., he is there."

Synergy is one of the recipients of The Synchrony Pillars Project Grant, which recognizes small business owners and healthcare providers who have risen above in times of change. Synergy, which launched as the pandemic began, embodies the resilience honored by the grant. The two-year-old team struggled with staffing, monetary losses and setbacks early on, but Roy and Samantha continued to pursue their goal of becoming “an unstoppable force."

Now, though a partnership with Synchrony, the couple can further help customers of different income levels who need an HVAC improvement or replacement — an important but sometimes costly investment. “If you just give customers a big price, and don't give them options, you may leave them almost depressed or scared," Roy said. “Synchrony has definitely made it easier. It gives me options. That's what customers need."

Providing customers with more financing options has also been good for business, allowing more potential clients to access HVAC services or equipment that may have otherwise been out of reach. “Before we started with Synchrony, we didn't offer financing at all," Samantha said. “That means a lot of business got turned down. Synchrony helped us expand and get that business that we were losing."

With the funds provided by the Pillars Project Grant, Synergy plans to branch out into home sterilization and insulation, helping Floridians access services that make their homes safer and more energy efficient. Working closely with the community has allowed Samantha and Roy to understand the challenges of Florida homeowners and respond strategically, from round-the-clock service to helpful financing options for their customers.

“Synergy Heating and Cooling believes in customer satisfaction and doing the right thing even when no one is looking," Samantha said. “Without our customers, we have no business."

Synchrony is a leader in launching new capabilities and solutions for businesses to help drive sales, loyalty and reach new customers with more financing options. Contact us to find out how we can do more for your business.