Yes, it is highly recommended that you start advertising your local number for your small HVAC-R business. Displaying a local number can provide several benefits for your business, including building trust with potential customers and improving your local search visibility.

1. Building Trust and Credibility: Displaying a local number helps establish credibility and trust with potential customers. When people see a local number, they are more likely to perceive your business as being legitimate and established in the local community. It creates a sense of familiarity and makes it easier for customers to reach out to you.

2. Local Search Visibility: Advertising your local number can improve your local search visibility on platforms like Google My Business. When people search for HVAC-R services in their local area, search engines prioritize businesses with local contact information. By displaying your local number, you increase the chances of appearing in local search results, driving more targeted traffic to your business.

3. Better Customer Experience: Using a local number ensures that customers can reach you easily without incurring long-distance charges or confusion. It also allows for quicker response times, as customers are more likely to call a local number rather than an unfamiliar toll-free number. This improved customer experience can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased referrals.

While it is true that Google may not suggest toll-free numbers, it doesn't mean they are completely ineffective or should be avoided. Toll-free numbers can still be useful for larger businesses with a national or international presence. However, for a small, locally-focused business like yours, it is more advantageous to advertise your local number.

Additionally, displaying your local number consistently across all your online platforms, including your website, social media profiles, and online directories, helps reinforce your brand and ensures customers can easily contact you.

In conclusion, advertising your local number for your small HVAC-R business is highly recommended. It builds trust, improves local search visibility, and enhances the overall customer experience. By displaying your local number consistently, you can differentiate yourself from your competitors and attract more local customers to your business.