Industry figures are estimates that are derived from the best available figures supplied by a sample of AHRI member companies.

Some are calling for the Uber dynamic pricing model to be used in the HVACR contracting world, especially during peak times like summer, when demand for technicians often outstrips supply.

Some beliefs, like Greek mythology, last for generations because they contain a valuable lesson. Others, like these, are just ready to become ancient history.

When customers call your service company, it’s for one thing — your expertise. They don’t want a price, the problem fixed, the fast and cheap solution, etc. like many technicians think. They want good information and possibly a little guidance to make a good decision.

It’s a well-known fact that HVAC — the smart thermostat — is the first point of entry into smart-home sales. And with more than half of U.S. households predicted to own a smart speaker by 2022, according to a late 2017 study by Juniper Research, it’s a prime opportunity for HVAC contractors.

One of the most obvious effects of commercial IoT, in terms of HVAC systems, is convergence of technology: bringing different systems within the building together into one ecosystem.

It started with smart thermostats. Now, in today’s world of smartphones, smart speakers, and Wi-Fi connections in 89 percent of U.S. households (as of 2017), smart homes are expanding in scope beyond heating and cooling controls — the first major foray into the smart-home concept — as manufacturers work to keep up with customer demand for continuous connection.

Information contained in these graphs is courtesy of the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).

While technology and the rise of diverse payment methods is often a culprit for tradespeoples’ woes, it’s can also be part of the solution.