Bell Simon Company - HVAC Supply
Introduction
For over eight decades, Bell Simons Companies has been a stalwart in the HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) and plumbing supply industry across New England and parts of New York. As of March 18, 2025, this family-owned distributor, headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, operates more than 30 locations, serving contractors, technicians, and businesses with a vast inventory of equipment, parts, and supplies. With a history dating back to 1940, Bell Simons has grown from a small pump repair shop into a regional powerhouse, known for its exceptional service, extensive product offerings, and deep industry relationships. This article delves into Bell Simons’ origins, evolution, operational strategies, and its enduring role in shaping the HVACR landscape.
Founding and Early Years
Bell Simons Companies traces its roots to 1940, when it was established as The Bell Pump Company in Hartford, Connecticut. Founded by a group of entrepreneurs led by the Bell family, the company initially focused on rebuilding oil pumps for the heating trade—a niche but vital service during an era when oil-based heating systems were prevalent in New England homes. Hartford, with its industrial heritage and central location, provided an ideal base for serving Connecticut’s growing residential and commercial markets.
The post-World War II boom brought new opportunities. By the late 1940s, Bell Pump expanded its footprint with additional locations in New Haven, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts. These branches allowed the company to better serve professionals in both urban and rural areas, capitalizing on the region’s postwar construction surge. Recognizing the shifting demands of the industry, management pivoted in 1957 with a transformative acquisition: The Joseph Simons Company, a distributor specializing in air conditioning and refrigeration supplies. This merger broadened Bell Pump’s scope, laying the foundation for what would become Bell Simons Companies—a name that fused the legacies of its founding entities.
The 1950s and 1960s were a period of steady growth. As air conditioning became a staple in homes and businesses, and refrigeration needs grew with the rise of supermarkets, Bell Simons positioned itself as a one-stop shop for heating, cooling, and plumbing professionals. The company’s early success stemmed from its commitment to quality products and hands-on customer service, a philosophy that endures today.
Growth and Regional Expansion
The 1970s and 1980s saw Bell Simons evolve into a regional leader. Under the stewardship of the Boland family, who took the helm in subsequent decades, the company expanded its network across New England and into New York. By the 1990s, Bell Simons operated over 20 locations, including branches in Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. This expansion was driven by a mix of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, allowing the company to tap into new markets while maintaining its family-owned ethos.
A defining moment came in November 2022, when Bell Simons was acquired by Munch’s Supply, a division of Marcone Group, a national distributor of HVAC, appliance, and plumbing parts. Led by President Floran Boland and Controller/CFO Katie Zodda, Bell Simons brought 29 branches and three distribution centers across seven states into the Marcone fold. This acquisition expanded Munch’s geographic reach to 103 locations across 18 states and Ontario, Canada, while preserving Bell Simons’ operational autonomy and brand identity. The move underscored Bell Simons’ value as a customer-focused business with a strong regional presence.
Today, Bell Simons operates over 30 locations, supported by distribution hubs that ensure rapid delivery and inventory depth. Its Hartford headquarters remains a symbolic anchor, reflecting its Connecticut roots while overseeing a network that spans urban centers like Boston and rural areas like northern Maine. This balance of scale and locality has been key to its sustained growth.
Operational Model and Product Offerings
Bell Simons’ operational model blends centralized efficiency with localized expertise. Each branch functions as a standalone resource, stocked with a full range of HVACR and plumbing products tailored to regional needs—heating solutions dominate in colder climates like Vermont, while cooling systems are prioritized in milder zones. Three distribution centers enhance this model, providing a steady supply chain that minimizes stockouts and ensures contractors can access parts quickly, often within 24 hours.
The company’s product portfolio is extensive, representing industry-leading manufacturers such as Alco, Beckett, Bitzer, Bristol, Danfoss, Dwyer, Emerson, Fasco, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Mitsubishi, Modine, Sporlan, and Tecumseh, among others. Bell Simons offers residential and commercial HVAC equipment—air handlers, condensing units, heat pumps, and furnaces—alongside refrigeration systems for food service and industrial applications. Plumbing supplies, including fittings, valves, and motors, round out its catalog, while a robust selection of replacement parts, controls, and tools caters to repair technicians.
This diversity serves a broad clientele: residential contractors installing systems in new homes, commercial technicians maintaining office buildings, and food service operators repairing refrigeration units. Bell Simons’ ability to bridge these sectors has made it a trusted partner across the industry. Its inventory depth—often cited as second to none—ensures that even obscure parts are available, a critical advantage in a trade where downtime can cost clients dearly.
Technological Innovation
Bell Simons has embraced technology to stay competitive in a digital age. Its website, www.bellsimons.com, serves as a comprehensive portal where customers can browse products, check availability, and place orders. While not as aggressively eCommerce-focused as some peers, the site reflects a practical approach, prioritizing functionality for busy contractors over flashy features. Real-time inventory tracking and branch locator tools enhance usability, while an online account system streamlines repeat orders.
Internally, Bell Simons leverages technology to optimize operations. Partnerships with vendors like NAVAC, a supplier of HVAC tools, highlight its commitment to offering cutting-edge equipment. Training programs, often hosted at branches or in collaboration with manufacturers, keep staff and customers updated on innovations like low-GWP refrigerants (e.g., R-454b) and smart HVAC controls. These efforts align with industry shifts toward sustainability and efficiency, ensuring Bell Simons remains a forward-thinking distributor.
The 2022 acquisition by Marcone has further bolstered its technological capabilities. Marcone’s resources, backed by Genstar Capital, have introduced advanced logistics and data systems, enhancing Bell Simons’ supply chain efficiency. This integration has allowed the company to maintain its high service standards while scaling to meet growing demand.
Navigating Challenges
Bell Simons’ 85-year history is punctuated by its ability to adapt to adversity. The energy crises of the 1970s tested its resilience, prompting a focus on energy-efficient heating solutions. The 2008 financial crisis slowed construction activity, but Bell Simons leaned on its loyal customer base and diversified offerings to weather the storm. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges—supply chain disruptions and labor shortages—but the company responded by stockpiling high-demand items like air purifiers and UV systems, minimizing disruptions.
Regulatory changes have also shaped Bell Simons’ strategy. The 2025 phaseout of high-GWP refrigerants under the AIM Act prompted the company to expand its stock of A2L-compliant systems and educate customers on their use. This proactive stance mirrors its response to earlier transitions, like the R-22 phaseout in 2020, reinforcing its role as an industry guidepost.
The Marcone acquisition introduced a new dynamic. While some feared a loss of identity, Bell Simons retained its leadership team, with Bob Casamento stepping in to guide the business alongside existing management. This continuity has preserved its family-oriented culture while tapping into Marcone’s national resources—a balance praised by CEO Jim Souers as a “perfect cultural fit.”
Community and Culture
Bell Simons’ family-owned heritage fosters a tight-knit culture. Founded as The Bell Pump Company and later enriched by the Simons acquisition, it has remained a family-driven enterprise, even under Marcone’s umbrella. Employees, many with decades-long tenures, describe a supportive environment where teamwork and customer care are paramount. Reviews highlight a “family-like atmosphere,” with management investing in training and benefits to nurture talent.
Community engagement is a priority. Bell Simons participates in industry events like the PHCC of Massachusetts trade show and hosts summits with partners like RUUD, fostering connections among HVAC professionals. Its over 30 locations serve as local hubs, supporting contractors and technicians with counter service and technical advice. This grassroots presence has earned Bell Simons a loyal following across New England and New York.
Leadership and Vision
Floran Boland’s presidency, alongside Katie Zodda’s financial oversight, guided Bell Simons through its pre-acquisition years, building a business that Marcone CEO Jim Souers described as “a great fit” for their portfolio. Post-acquisition, Bob Casamento’s leadership has focused on growth while preserving the company’s core values. With Marcone’s backing, Bell Simons aims to expand its footprint and enhance its offerings, targeting deeper penetration in existing markets.
The Future of Bell Simons
Looking ahead, Bell Simons is poised to capitalize on industry trends. The push for sustainability will drive demand for energy-efficient systems like heat pumps, an area where its Carrier and Mitsubishi partnerships shine. Potential investments in AI-driven inventory management could further streamline operations, while new locations in underserved areas remain a possibility. With Marcone’s support, Bell Simons targets sustained growth, aiming to solidify its status as a Northeast leader.
Conclusion
Bell Simons Companies’ 85-year journey reflects a blend of tradition, adaptability, and service excellence. From its Hartford origins to its current network of over 30 branches, it has grown by staying true to its roots while embracing change. The 2022 Marcone acquisition marks a new chapter, pairing Bell Simons’ regional expertise with national resources. As it navigates a future shaped by technology and sustainability, Bell Simons remains a trusted partner to New England’s HVACR community, delivering quality and reliability—one job at a time.
What Brands Does Bell Simon Sell?
Bellsimon offers brand names such as Alco, Becket, Bitzer, Bristol, Cooper, Danfoss, Dwyer, Emerson, Fasco, Fluke, Freidrich, Grasslin, Grundfoss, Harris, Heatcraft, Honeywell, JB, Johnson Controls, Klein, Krack, Larkin, Lenox, Magic Aire, Malco, Mitsubishi, Modine, Mueller, Nibco, Paragon, Ranco, Rectorseal, Reznor, Robertshaw, Samsung, Sporlan, Taco, Tecumseh, Tjerland, Watts, Whirlpool, White Rogers, Zoeller as well as many other name brand HVAC supplies.
BellSimon HVAC Supply Near You
| The Bell Pump Service Company |
| 29 Lafayette St. |
| Hartford CT 06106-1508 |
| 860-246-6775 |
| The Bell Pump Service Company |
| 210 Albany St. |
| Springfield MA 01105-1018 |
| 413-781-4500 |
| The Bell Pump Service Company |
| 20 Victory St. |
| Stamford CT 06902 |
| 203-324-2139 |
| The Bell Pump Service Company |
| 209 Forbes Ave. |
| New Haven CT 06512 |
| 203-469-5351 |
| The Bell Pump Service Company |
| 91 Crystal Ave. |
| New London CT 06320 |
| 860-443-2036 |
| The Bell Pump Company |
| 975 Riverside Drive |
| Methuen MA 01844-6703 |
| 978-686-9568 |
| The Bell Pump Company |
| 56 Daniels Street |
| Fitchburg MA 01420-7607 |
| 978-342-6686 |
| The Bell Pump Company |
| 6 Kane Industrial Drive |
| Hudson MA 01749-2906 |
| 978-562-9070 |
| The Bell Pump Company |
| 364 Rantoul Street |
| Beverly MA 01915-3235 |
| 978-922-1920 |
| Clark & Company |
| 56 Airport Road |
| Waterville ME 04901-4501 |
| 207-873-1107 |
| Clark & Company |
| 62 Academy St |
| Auburn ME 04210-5705 |
| 207-786-0129 |
| Clark & Company |
| 212 Wilson Street |
| Brewer ME 04412 |
| 207-989-4539 |
| Clark & Company |
| 103 River Street |
| Sanford ME 04073-2827 |
| 207-490-2244 |
| Clark & Company |
| 29 Landry Street |
| Biddeford ME 04005-4309 |
| 207-284-5975 |
| The Joseph Simons Company |
| 319 Murphy Rd. |
| Hartford CT 06114-2105 |
| 860-525-6675 |
| The Joseph Simons Company |
| 545 St James Ave. |
| Springfield MA 01109-3870 |
| 413-781-6646 |
| The Joseph Simons Company |
| 18 Taconic Park Ave. |
| Pittsfield MA 01201-2657 |
| 413-443-7718 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 55 Messina Drive |
| Braintree, MA 02184-6783 |
| 781-848-9394 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 10 Temple St. |
| Charlestown, MA 02129-1026 |
| 617-241-7800 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 150 Cordaville Rd. |
| Southborough, MA 01772-1803 |
| 508-303-9540 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 3 Calkins Court |
| Burlington, VT 05403-6002 |
| 802-862-8705 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 358 Washington Street North |
| Auburn ME 04210-4823 |
| 207-786-0381 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 470 Odlin Rd. |
| Bangor ME 04401-6708 |
| 207-947-6991 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 373 Riverside Ind. Pkwy |
| Portland ME 04103-1415 |
| 207-797-8152 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 1050 Holt Avenue, Unit 3 |
| Manchester NH 03109-5615 |
| 603-627-7684 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 40 Railroad Ave. |
| Albany NY 12205-5705 |
| 518-489-2905 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 224 Van Wagner Rd. |
| Poughkeepsie NY 12603-1093 |
| 845-471-2610 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 559 Cambridge St. |
| Worcester MA 01610 |
| 508-756-5772 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 176 Union Avenue |
| Providence RI 02909-3054 |
| 401-944-0200 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 101 Printery St. |
| Providence RI 02904-2722 |
| 401-274-4180 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 105 Ferndoc Street |
| Hyannis, MA 02601-2039 |
| 508-771-3588 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 75 Wyman Road |
| Hancock ME 04640-3208 |
| 207-664-1904 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 805 Wood Ave. |
| Bridgeport CT 06604 |
| 203-335-5569 |
| The BellSimons Company |
| 90 Kenwood Street |
| Cranston RI 02907-3132 |
| 401-944-0200 |