Sunset Air has been serving the Thurston County area since 1976, but its products and services have not stayed in the past. Instead, the company is robustly committed to providing the latest energy-efficient technology to its customers with a business model that focuses on sustainability for the environment and safety for its workers. It’s no surprise then that they were awarded the Thurston Green Business – Large Business of the Year award from the Thurston County Chamber on April 8, 2026.

“The Thurston Green Business Committee chose Sunset Air due to their diversified and ample efforts to embed sustainability into most areas of their business. Their commitment to walking the talk was clear through their application and practices.” Alyssa Jones Wood, Thurston Green Business Committee chair and sustainability manager at the City of Tumwater.

Sunset Air was honored to receive the Thurston County Chamber’s Thurston Green Business – Large Business of the Year award in April 2026. Photo courtesy: Sunset Air

Sunset Air Specializes in Helping Customers Reduce Energy Use

If the new utility cost increases have you sweating at night, it might be time to talk to the experts in energy-efficient solutions: Sunset Air.

Maybe you want to update that old HVAC System. Maybe you are pondering solar and wondering if it really will save you money. Maybe you need a way to charge your EV. Maybe you are looking at all three. Whatever your quest, Sunset Air’s technicians can guide you to the best solutions that will help the environment and your budget.

They specialize in high-performance HVAC systems, solar energy installations, EV charging infrastructure and backup battery solutions. “[We help] customers reduce energy use while supporting a more sustainable future,” says Trenton Fluetsch, Sunset Air chief executive officer.

Trenton adds that one of their biggest impacts is whole-home electrification. “Through the Energize Thurston and Energize Olympia programs, Sunset Air completed a significant number of electric conversions, replacing fossil fuel heating and water systems with high-efficiency electric heat pumps and heat pump water heaters,” he adds. “These conversions directly reduce carbon emissions and improve household energy efficiency.”

Sunset Air is the only Thurston County contractor selected through a competitive bid and interview process to participate in Energize Thurston, Energize Olympia, and Solarize Thurston.

“Sunset Air strives to make a positive impact not only through the services it delivers, but also through its dedication to employees, the local community, and environmental stewardship,” shares Trenton. “Sunset Air remains focused on creating innovative, responsible solutions that contribute to a cleaner and more energy-conscious Thurston County.”

Sunset Air trailer parked on a street with houses being built in the background
Whether its one home or an entire development, Sunset Air takes great care to help customers have energy-efficient homes that keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Photo credit: Nate Burgher Photography

Not Just Hot Air, Sunset Air Lives What They Preach When it Comes to Green Practices

Sunset Air doesn’t just sell green products. The company runs with sustainability and green ideology. In 2025, they added their first electric vehicle to their fleet and installed two EV charging stations at their building for employees and public use.

Another notable area they have worked on is recycling of refrigerant. They partner with certified third-party distributors to ensure the refrigerant is properly recycled. “As an HVAC contractor, safe refrigerant reclamation is critical to protecting the ozone layer and reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Trenton says. “To further strengthen our environmental compliance and recovery capacity, we have added additional EPA-certified team members specifically trained in safe refrigerant handling and recovery procedures. By investing in certification, training, and third-party reclamation partnerships, we ensure that refrigerants are responsibly managed throughout their lifecycle.”

Taking care of our planet and community includes making sure their employees are well protected and provided for. Their dedicated in-house safety director attends continuing education conferences and safety forums to ensure Sunset Air has the best practices. They conduct third-party safety audits at their headquarters and active job sites. “We also provide CPR and First Aid training to employees at no cost, reinforcing our commitment to workplace preparedness and well-being,” adds Trenton.

The company’s sustainability practices extend beyond internal infrastructure. They believe in being an example of community stewardship and volunteerism. They encourage their employees to volunteer and be involved in the community. Trenton himself serves on several nonprofit boards.

Sunset Air is also the Green Sponsor for the Hands On Children’s Museum, a Platinum Sponsor for the Thurston County Boys & Girls Clubs; and works with Habitat for Humanity as a trusted contractor and participant in their annual Veterans Build.

Winning the Thurston Green Business Large Business of the Year award is something they are proud of.  “We’re incredibly honored to receive the Thurston County Green Business of the Year Award,” shares Trenton. “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and serving our community. As a third-generation, family-owned business in our 50th year in business, our longevity comes from consistently doing the right thing for our customers, our employees and our community.”

To learn more about their products and services, visit the Sunset Air website.

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