U.S. HVAC Market Continues to Grow in 2019 and Beyond

If you’re interested in becoming an HVAC technician, you’re in luck. The HVAC industry continues to grow at a very healthy rate.

A new research report predicts that the HVAC market will grow by 6.20 percent between 2014 and 2022.^[1] There are a number of trends that drive this growth, and they reflect the most important developments within the HVAC industry.

Biggest Industry Drivers

Demand for Qualified Workers

There’s a high demand for qualified workers with the right skills in HVAC.^[2] Technicians who have technical expertise, are familiar with digital technology, know how to troubleshoot and have excellent customer service skills have especially good chances at landing a well-paying job.^[3]

HVAC systems are also becoming more sophisticated and digitalized, so HVAC training program graduates who can service these systems have the best job prospects.^[4]

Energy-Efficient Products

Energy efficiency continues to be an important factor in the HVAC industry. Products that involve indoor air quality, building automation and control, low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and medical facility applications have garnered a lot of attention recently.

Customers are interested in high-efficiency equipment, energy (heat reclaiming), waste heat use, reducing heat loss, renewable energy sources and energy efficient controls.^[5]

Automotive HVAC

Nowadays, almost every car is produced with an automotive HVAC system. More than 80 percent of newly sold passenger cars have an AC system, and that figure will likely increase within the next few years.

More and more customers prioritize comfort and safety, so features like sensors that measure gas or humidity concentration, for example, are popular.

Technology that eliminates refrigerant leaks, which cause environmental harm, is another big trend in automotive HVAC.^[6]

Business Technology

HVAC businesses are seeking to streamline their operations by using digital technology that helps them with accounting and other financial metrics.

For instance, cloud accounting and real-time bank feeds allow businesses to see financial results almost in real time. Smart applications and software can really reduce unnecessary expenses and help a business respond to changes more swiftly.^[7]

Customer-Focused Online Presence

We live in an age where customers are increasingly relying on other customers’ feedback. Whether it’s Yelp or Google, many people research a business’ reviews and compare competitors first before making their decision.

That’s why it’s important to develop a positive online presence by getting good online reviews and interacting with customers on social media. Many businesses send a follow-up email after a completed job, ask for feedback and provide a link to leaving a positive review.^[8]

Competition from Start-Ups

The gig economy is becoming a big competitor for traditional home service businesses.

Some people like to save money by having an unlicensed contractor fix their AC unit rather than an expert who works for a reputable HVAC business, especially if they can get the service within 24 hours.

To maintain the upper hand, HVAC businesses are adapting to customers’ growing expectations and seeking to provide fast and high-quality service at a fair price.^[9]

Mobile Marketing

Mobile phones have been taking over desktop computers when it comes to web usage.

In 2017, 63 percent of all online traffic came from mobile devices, while 37 percent originated from desktop computers.^[10] HVAC businesses that want to attract customers online have to make their webpages mobile-friendly.

This means that the page loads fast and is easy to navigate. HVAC businesses that are adapting to customers’ changing online habits will likely be especially successful.^[11]

Adopt a Holistic Approach in 2019

If you’re about to enter the HVAC industry as a recent trade school graduate, knowing its major drivers can help you plan your career.

However, as much as the individual factors propelling the industry have changed over the years, the key to HVAC business success hasn’t: create a positive and memorable customer experience each and every time.^[12]

Learn more about the different types of HVAC careers or contact RSI today to get started in an HVAC training program.