Home & Garden Magazine Features Rabe Solar

Have you seen the Summer 2020 issue of the Cedar Valley Home & Garden Magazine?

If so, then you might have read an article on solar power that featured none other than a Rabe Hardware solar system. The system was installed last Fall for a customer in Waterloo, IA with an objective to get as close to “Net-zero” as possible.

The homeowner already had a Rabe Hardware geothermal system installed ...

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June 17, 2020

Solar Systems – A smart business investment!

If you’ve traveled through Iowa recently, you probably noticed an increase in the number of solar installations popping up. According to the Iowa Solar Energy Trade Association (ISETA), Iowa has more small-scale distributed solar than most Midwest and Plains states. In fact, the number of solar systems installed in Iowa grew 28% from 2017 to 2018; and of that, nearly 6% were commercial installations.

Once thought of as too expensive for a small to medium sized business, solar is now widely ...

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June 17, 2020

Celebrating 40 Years & Counting!

Ever since it was founded by brothers, Leo and Jack Rabe; Rabe Hardware has been a family owned and operated company. Leo’s son, Jake Rabe, grew up in the family business and at an early age began showing interest in home mechanical services. In 1994, after serving as an F-18 Fighter Jet Mechanic in the Gulf War, Jake and his wife, Erika, became owners of Rabe Hardware.

Under Jake’s leadership, the company has significantly expanded services to include far more than could have been imagined ...

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June 17, 2020

A 2019 Fastest Growing Company

(BLAIRSTOWN, IOWA – JUNE 14, 2019)

Rabe Hardware is proud to announce that it has been named to the Corridor Business Journal’s annual list of Top 25 Fastest Growing Companies in the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids Creative Corridor.

“We are grateful to receive and share this honor with a remarkable group of companies. We attribute our growth and success over the last 40 years to our team of talented and dedicated employees and all our loyal customers who continue to put their trust ...

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December 3, 2019

Rabe’s 2018 Christmas Gift List

Christmas is less than 2 weeks away and you know what that means…. crunch time! If you’re like the majority of Americans, there is still much to do before that magical day. According to the National Retail Federation (NFR), 88% of Americans still have shopping to do between December 12th-December 25th.

“Even though many consumers got a headstart with holiday shopping early in the season, millions more are leaving their gift buying the last minute and beyond.” ...

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June 17, 2020

Follow us on Instagram!

Do yourself a favor and head over to Instagram to follow @RabeHardware.

Here we’ll keep you up-to-date on the latest promotions, new products, as well as energy savings and home comfort tips. You’ll get a behind the scenes peek at some of our project installations and perhaps, some of you will remember to tag us in your next Rabe Hardware project photos.

We look forward to seeing you on Instagram!

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December 3, 2019

Is Your Furnace Ready for Winter?

It’s always better to stop problems before they start, and when it comes to your homes heating system, you don’t want to be left in the cold. An annual furnace inspection and tune-up, performed by a licensed and qualified HVAC technician, will ensure your system is clean, safe and performing at maximum efficiency. Taking the time to schedule a tune-up this Fall, even if you think your system is fine, can help detect any small problems before they ...

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June 17, 2020

Exciting News from Lennox

Rabe Hardware is proud to announce that we recently received the prestigious 2016 Centurion Award as well as the 2016 Healthy Climate Sales Award from Lennox.

Each year, Lennox honors the top 6% of all its North Amercian dealers with the celebrated Centurion Award. Dealers that are considered for this award are community leaders who embody the Lennox brand promise in their market. They set the standard for customer service, installation quality, and execute an annual plan that drives growth through ...

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June 17, 2020

Rabe Hardware Honored by Enertech Global for Promoting GeoComfort Geothermal Systems

(GREENVILLE, IL – June 1, 2017) – Local residents don’t have to look far to find a highly qualified geothermal installer to help them reduce their carbon footprint and save money on monthly utilities. Enertech Global, manufacturer of GeoComfort geothermal heating and cooling systems, hosted its annual Dealer Meeting in May, recognizing its top dealers from 2016.

Central Iowa business, Rabe Hardware, is one of the nation’s premier geothermal installers, having earned the Double Platinum Award and the Sales Champion ...

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Montigo Fireplace Line at Rabe Hardware, Vinton, IA

June 17, 2020

Rabe Hardware Makes Room For Montigo Fireplace Line

Rabe Hardware’s “Home Comfort Headquarters” located in downtown Vinton, IA, has undergone a fresh new remodel to launch the unveiling of a new fireplace product line called Montigo. Montigo fireplaces bring quality, beauty, and warmth to the environment. Established in 1976, the privately held company specializes in standard and custom manufactured gas fireplaces for commercial and residential spaces. There extensive line includes; more than 70 fireplace styles – anything from contemporary to traditional, top quality accessories to enhance appearance and ...

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Heidi Jones

17:14 27 Oct 17

We've had Rabe Hardware install or repair multiple projects in our house: whole-home generator, air purification system, water softener, sump pump. But our latest project was a mini split heating/cooling system in our master bathroom. My husband and I had a dilemma... our master bathroom is chilly in the morning, so we've been using a space heater. Probably not a great idea to combine electricity just feet from an open shower. However after a shower and blow drying long hair, I'm SUPER hot! Hot/cold, Hot/cold...what's the answer?! I contacted Rabe Hardware and asked about a mini split heating/cooling system. Problem was, outside-facing wall space was limited in our master bathroom. This did not deter the Rabe team from searching to find a different model of mini split that not only looks FABULOUS and CONTEMPORARY, but solves our not-so-agreeable temperature needs. I can't say enough about the Rabe team's work ethic and attention to detail. From the minute they arrived, they are professional, competent and work so efficiently. They involve us in all decision making to ensure we won't have any surprises after installation. Everything is done with such precision, including tarps laid down to protect our carpet. Everything is cleaned up practically better than before they arrived. The guys were so great in explaining the remote control settings. The real test came the next morning. Overnight temps dropped to the 30s. We close our bathroom door at night to block out the light. It was a chilly 64 degrees in there to start! We fired up the mini split to "jet" heat mode, and 10 minutes later? A balmy 77 degrees! No shivering in the shower! AND... we were pleasantly surprised to see, even in heat mode, it combated the humidity! Our shower is open with dual shower heads, so before, even with the vent running, mirrors were fogged over and the light fixtures and counter top were literally sweating with humidity. Best investment we've ever made! Thank you Rabe Hardware!!

Ryan Wheeler

16:00 18 Nov 17

Our 15yr old geothermal heat pump was dying. Replacing it is a big investment so we were taking bids. Rabe was our third. While they were a little higher than the other two, the time Jake took to explain things and his passion for the technology sold us. My wife took it a step further: "That's someone I'd give my house keys to. If he hires people like him, I don't care if their bid comes back higher, that's who I want to work with." We ended up adding air cleaning and other systems Jake recommended, that others didn't even mention, and have been so glad we did. Rabe was nothing but professional from beginning to end, including communications which is rare for contractors. (Too often a contractor calls at the last minute to say a job has gone long and they're just now realizing they can't make the scheduled date.) They handled all the paperwork for tax credits and rebates; it was completely transparent to us. A few months later when part of the old system fractured where the new system connects to it, I was afraid they'd say it wasn't covered by warranty because it was part of the old system. Nope, they were here with the same responsiveness and professionalism and fixed it. It's been a year and we're positively thrilled. Probably going to get a wood stove next year and Rabe will get our business, no questions asked.

Colleen Fangman

14:23 27 Dec 17

I had an amazing experience from beginning to end. I started with a water heater replacement and after how great it was working with RABE, I also replaced my furnace and AC. My questions were answered, time was taken to explain different options, and everyone was very patient. RABE even came when they said they would, started on time, and brought extra people in to complete the work in one day. What I appreciated most was the clean up process. I came home and I never knew anyone was here working. Sheets were placed on the carpet so dirt wasn't tracked in and the guys even vacuumed when they were done. WOW! Jeremy put together different options in a neat and organized way that allowed me to understand what I was getting. They completed all the Rebate paperwork and submitted it for me. I wouldn't go anywhere else. Thank you for the amazing work! I will continue to have my work completed through RABE!

jorge amaya

13:12 25 Jul 17

Very pleased with them, they fixed my electrical problem. Next time I know who to call. You guys are awesome thanks you much

Bob Adams

18:17 09 Oct 17

Outstanding!!! They were professional, efficient, and had a great work ethic.

Deven Markley

21:20 14 May 18

Moved to a new house last Sept. and called for an a/c and furnace tune up in May. Easily worked into a Friday afternoon I had off. Helpful staff got the a/c tune up complete quickly. Checked in a few times to let me know what parts he needed to replace and where he was with the process. Once that was done, he recommended we wait for the furnace until the fall. Said it was a better use of my money at that time. Appreciate the honesty and the great customer service!

Shawn PInk

17:39 26 Nov 18

Very knowledgeable and helpful staff!!!! Answered all my questions and were very polite!!

Charles Pelton

21:25 05 Feb 19

This is the second awesome experience that I have had with Rabe. This time I had a frozen waste line due to the harsh cold and also a flooding boiler room. 3 men came within hours of my call. They were all very patient and friendly, worked fast and fixed my broken boiler so that it heats better than it ever has. And then called the next morning an hour and a half before they even opened to make sure everything was okay. Love these guys!!!!! Edwards charged me incorrectly and told me they didn't need my business when I asked for a written estimate, I'm so glad!!!!!! I would never have found these awesome people otherwise. THANK YOU Rabe Hardware.

Jerald McCaw

20:27 29 Apr 19

Jake knows his stuff.

Robin Menster

23:31 30 Oct 19

We were looking at options for Solar panels for our home. A friend recommended we contact Rabe Hardware to make sure they thought it was a good option for our home. Jake responded back to our phone call right away and within 3 days we had a formal quote and had signed up to have Rabe install our solar system. Jake was by far the most knowledgeable on solar systems than any of the other 3 companies we contacted. This process went way smoother and faster than we thought it would. Troy and his crew that installed the system were very professional (even dealt with our Shepherd wanting to help out). Jonny in the office kept us updated all the way thru the process and it was usually daily we had contact. Rabe is an A+ company to deal with. Anyone wanting to investigate solar needs to make sure to look at Rabe. You won't be disappointed.

Zach V

03:21 22 Nov 19

I have nothing but great things to say about this company. It has been a little over a year since our geothermal installation and it has worked flawlessly. The sales guy and installation crew were great to work with and really know their stuff. Jeff has been our service guy since and he is awesome. Rabe Hardware is fast, efficient, reliable and simply the best eastern Iowa has to offer. I've recommended Rabe to several people and will continue to do so. Thank you for proving to me that quality and great service is still a thing.

kevin pauly

17:03 05 Dec 19

After several inquiries with other Solar company's we decided to go with Rabe Hardware. There responsiveness and attention to the details to gain our business was clearly our deciding factor. The installation is now complete and we couldn't be happier. Professionalism, courteous and quality of work set's them apart from most.

Brian Lehmann

23:56 09 Dec 19

We used Rabe with a recommendation of a neighbor and am five-star pleased. Kaleb was excellent at providing clear and reasonable options. The installation team were superb. We’ve used both AC and now heat this season and love the Lennox product we chose for efficiency/cost, comfort, and quiet. I highly recommend Rabe Hardware. And yes, they service Iowa City.

John Ely

21:57 01 Feb 20

I Highly Recommend Rabe Hardware, because Caleb and his team were Very Helpful and Straight forward with the geothermal process. I wish I knew that Rabe Hardware did Solar as well as Geothermal, because I would’ve gotten a bigger discount if you have Geothermal and Solar installed are the same time.

steve bagenstos

17:20 11 Mar 20

This is the first time I have used Rabe Hardware. Allen and Josh installed a gas insert fireplace in my home yesterday. I could not have been happier. They were professional, polite and most important, knowledgeable. I was so impressed with Rabe Hardware that I will use them exclusively in the future. Word of mouth is the best advertising which is how I came to find out about Rabe Hardware and is why I am writing this review. I promise, you will not be disappointed using Rabe Hardware. Steve Bagenstos

Scott Wagner

16:04 12 Jun 20

My wife and I started investigating the potential for a house solar system in late April. Jake and Rabe Hardware was one of several providers that we contacted for consideration. By far, Jake was the most responsive of all the companies we considered. He came to the house, got us educated and provided a quote before most others even got back with us. The Rabe price was the most competitive and provided the best solution, with high quality components. The Rabe team had our system (30 panels) installed in 4 hours while working with/around our roofer, who was finishing the installation of a new metal roof! They submitted and completed all of the paperwork and we are off and running! Please consider Rabe first if you want a reliable, cost effective solar solution done right!

Steven Perez

23:04 13 Aug 20

This vicious storm that passed through Iowa. Of couse lost power. The 4th day every place I called i was looking at at least a week wait time for electricians to hook meter back to house. As I was sitting on our deck I seen a Rabe truck drive by. Called them and within an hour got a call they were just a few minutes away. Few hour later job was done call REC that night we had power again. Big shoutout to Rabe I really appreciated the fast service

Natasha Wendt

21:04 26 Jan 21

Upon a recommendation from a friend we contacted Rabe Hardware to discuss installing solar panels and a generator at our Iowa City home. Jake and the crew at Rabe were very responsive, helpful, and patient as they answered all our questions. Most impressively, they were honest about the payback of solar and what we could expect. Then, after we decided to move forward with them, they took care of everything and kept us well informed along the way. The install crew was respectful and careful. Based upon our experience so far, we heartedly recommend Rabe for anyone looking to make an investment in their home's and their planet's future with the addition of solar panels.

Wayne Kaplan (WOODY)

23:40 20 Nov 20

Man....let me say this.Top notch customer service....and went above and beyond expectations to meet my needs. Even stayed open few min. later so I could get what I needed so I didn't have to wait all weekend to get on Monday.I gave them 5 stars where they actually deserved. More but 5 was max I could give. Standing ovation.... Hands down....kindness superb!!!

Walter Malone

18:32 30 Nov 20

My wife and I moved to Shellsburg, Iowa this past Summer. The home we purchased had solar panels that we knew nothing about. One of their representatives stopped by not long asked we we moved in as our panels were off-line. He had us up and running in no time at all. He got us set-up with the online app and gave a quick and easy tutorial. Then, just days later, we found ourselves in the same situation as many in our area due to Hurricane Derecho. Jake Rabe and his team responded before anyone else. They laid out what needed to be done and completed it with the same speed and excellence as before. I am so impressed with this company from the owner to all his team members. I am a difficult person to make happy (sad confession) and I cannot recommend them more for any of your home needs. We will return every time we can!

Lance Logan

17:27 05 Feb 21

I want to thank Rabe Hardware and James in particular for outstanding customer service. The morning after our recent blizzard my 88 year old mother’s furnace quit working. Even with terrible road conditions and high demand, he was at her house within 30 minutes of the initial phone call and took care of the issue quickly and got her heat back on. Thank you so much Rabe HW and James. Simply outstanding!! I wish I could give more stars.