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How to Recession Proof Your HVAC Business

Updated August 29, 2022

Are you concerned that the current economic conditions will have a negative impact on your HVAC business? If so, you’re not alone. But don’t worry – you can take steps to recession-proof your business and ensure its success regardless of the economy. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the best ways to do just that. So read on for tips you can use to protect your HVAC business during these uncertain times.

How do Recessions Affect HVAC Businesses

The effects of the recession on HVAC businesses are not uniform. While some states have seen a quick recovery, others may be still feeling its impact years later as they struggle with low customer volumes and high unemployment rates.

The three most common trends noticed by those who study this industry during times like these include:

  • First, demand for HVAC services tends to decrease during a recession. This is because many businesses and homeowners put off non-essential repairs and upgrades during economic downturns.
  • Second, HVAC businesses may have difficulty accessing financing during a recession. This can make it difficult to invest in new equipment or restock inventory.
  • Lastly, a recession can lead to an increase in competition from other businesses looking to cut costs. This can put pressure on HVAC businesses to lower their prices, which can eat into profits.

Is Your HVAC Business Recession Ready?

The short answer is that there is no such thing as a recession-proof business. Historically, the HVAC industry does tend to be relatively resilient during economic downturns. This is because people will always need to heat and cool their homes, and they are often reluctant to invest in significant renovations during periods of economic uncertainty.

Recession-proof your business through diversification and saving a certain amount of money. Want to know the breakdown? Watch the video here ➜

As a result, HVAC businesses typically see a modest decrease in demand during recessions, but they are rarely forced to shut their doors. Of course, this doesn’t mean that HVAC businesses are immune to the effects of a recession. Many homeowners will look for ways to cut costs during difficult economic times, which can lead to reduced demand for HVAC services. Fortunately, there are steps that HVAC businesses can take to weather the storm, such as offering discounts and promotions or diversifying their services. By taking proactive steps, an HVAC business can ensure that they remain afloat during a recession or other challenging economic condition.

Best Strategies to Succeed in a Recession

How can you make the most of the upswing and avoid being a victim of the HVAC business recession? If you’re wondering how to make it through a downturn, consider the following strategies.

  • Save up on a rainy day – The ideal amount is three to six months’ worth of operating costs, but this does not ensure a trouble-free operation. Ruth King, one of the guests on a RepTalk program, shared a more effective one. “Take your highest month of overhead, and multiply that by 3. Then take your highest month of payroll, and multiply that by 6. Add those numbers together, and that’s how much money you want to save.” 
  • Regularly keep track of your finances – Don’t wait for a recession to force you to take a hard look at your money; instead, make it a daily practice to do so.
  • Diversify your income – Check out the latest developments in the HVAC business, such as IAQ. Increase your business’s offerings with products that can improve the circumstances faced by your customers.

Why do HVAC Careers Tend to be Recession-Proof?

When it comes to career stability, few industries can match the HVAC industry. HVAC technicians are always in demand, thanks to the essential role they play in keeping homes and businesses comfortable. Even during economic downturns, people still need to heat and cool their homes, so HVAC technicians are less likely to experience job loss during a recession. In addition, the HVAC industry is expected to grow steadily in the coming years, so those who enter the field can expect to find plenty of job opportunities. So if you’re looking for a stable career that will provide plenty of growth potential, a career in HVAC is definitely worth considering.

High demand for HVAC pros – If you’re good at what you do, you can live anywhere you want and make a six-figure income. The best part is – no student loan debt. Learn more ➜

Ken Grubbs

Ken Grubbs

Founder and managing director of KGG with over four decades of experience in the HVAC industry and two decades as KGG’s director. Ken is well-versed in the HVAC and IAQ world. He is passionate about the future of the HVAC industry and the role indoor air quality can play in health and wellness. Leading HVAC manufacturer sales ⤑

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