Author: Brett Knox
March 8, 2024 - 4 MIN. READ
As the temperature starts to rise and the days get longer, now is the time for HVAC summer maintenance.
HVAC contractors are beginning to shift their focus from heating to cooling systems. This transition is crucial to ensure that HVAC systems operate efficiently and effectively.
Impacts of transitioning from heating to cooling
The transition from heating to cooling has several impacts on HVAC contractors. One of the most significant impacts is increased demand for cooling services.
Homeowners and businesses will rely more heavily on cooling systems to keep their indoor environments comfortable during the hot summer months. This increase in demand means that HVAC contractors must be prepared to handle a higher volume of service calls and installations.
Additionally, HVAC contractors must shift their focus from heating to cooling systems. This change in focus means that contractors must invest in training and education to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies in the cooling industry.
Contractors will also need to be aware of weather changes' impact on the demand for cooling services, such as global warming. This year, for example, we have already seen record-breaking heatwaves in many parts of the world, which will undoubtedly impact the demand for cooling services.
This summer is also poised to be one of the hottest seen yet. With a 99% chance the year will rank among the five warmest on record.
As the weather continues to heat up across the country, HVAC contractors will be even busier this year, transitioning from heating to cooling and providing HVAC work for AC systems that are working overtime.
HVAC summer: What does this mean?
When the time comes for heating to become cooling, this means it is time to change what you set your thermostat at. While setting the temperature in the fall is excellent at around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, for the summer, it is best to set your cooling system to 78 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Department of Energy.
Over the summer, it is also vital to consider how to change your zone settings throughout your home. For example, while during the winter, rooms with large, south, and west-facing windows may need more heating, over the summer, these spaces will warm up, meaning they may require more cooling.
Preparing for the shift
To prepare for the shift from heating to cooling for HVAC summertime, HVAC contractors will need to consider several factors. Firstly, they need to be aware of the trends in HVAC supply that could impact them. For example, there may be shortages of specific HVAC components, such as refrigerants or compressors, which could delay installations and repairs. Contractors will need to have a plan in place to manage these potential supply chain disruptions.
To combat these issues, HVAC contractors can invest in ongoing training and education to stay up to date with the industry's latest technologies and best practices. By doing so, contractors can offer their clients the most efficient and effective cooling solutions, which will help them stay competitive in the marketplace.
Another essential factor to consider is expanding their business. As HVAC contractors perform routine maintenance or repairs, they may identify opportunities to upsell additional services or products, such as Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) equipment or smart thermostats.
As summer is a time when allergies are running high, getting your HVAC filters ready for this time of year when dust, pollen, pet fur, and debris are present can help to reduce the risk of allergy attacks over the summer.
HVAC systems also operate best when you either clean or change the air filter every three months, meaning that this should be changed before summer hits. If your air filter is dirty or clogged, the air handlers work overtime, and the heat exchanger's cooling efficiency will run with reduced efficiency. By offering these additional services, contractors can increase their revenue streams and offset the potential decrease in demand for heating services.
Competition is another issue that HVAC contractors will need to consider. With the seasonal shift, contractors may face increased competition from other contractors and service providers looking to capitalize on the need for cooling system repairs and maintenance. To stay competitive, contractors must differentiate themselves from competitors by offering superior service, competitive pricing, and innovative solutions.
To make your HVAC company stand out, focus on providing quality work by standing by high-quality work and hiring a great team. Being friendly and people-oriented can take you and your team a long way, and customers will appreciate feeling like you are there for them when they need you.
Place yourself in your customers' shoes, understand where they are coming from, and treat them how you want to be treated. Each time you do work, focus on getting to the customer as soon as possible and getting the job done as quickly and efficiently as you can while maintaining high-quality work within the customer's budget.
Working to create an online presence is also a great way to make your business stand out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to showcase your fees and customer testimonials. In addition, it will provide a quick way for people to get in contact with you.
Making the transition
The transition from heating to cooling can positively and negatively impact HVAC contractors. By staying informed about industry trends and investing in ongoing training and education, contractors can remain competitive and meet the needs of their clients throughout the year. Additionally, by expanding their business and offering additional services and products, contractors can increase their revenue streams and stay profitable during the seasonal shift.
As we continue to experience the effects of climate change, the demand for cooling services will only continue to increase. HVAC contractors who are prepared for this shift and equipped to meet their client's demands will be well-positioned for success in the future.
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