sample business plan for hvac company

HVAC Company Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their HVAC companies. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a HVAC company business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

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What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your HVAC company business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a HVAC company business, or grow your existing HVAC company business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your HVAC company business in order to improve your chances of success. Your HVAC company business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for HVAC Company Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a HVAC company business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for HVAC companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start a HVAC company or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your HVAC company business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of HVAC company business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a HVAC company business that you would like to grow, or are you operating HVAC companies in multiple markets?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the HVAC company industry. Discuss the type of HVAC company business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of HVAC company you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of HVAC company businesses:

• Residential HVAC company : this type of HVAC company specializes in providing air conditioning and heating units and servicing for residential properties.
• Commercial HVAC company: this type of HVAC company specializes in providing air conditioning and heating units and servicing for commercial properties, such as restaurants, retail, grocery stores, and gyms.
• Industrial Company: this type of HVAC company specializes in providing air conditioning and heating units and servicing for industrial properties, such as warehouses.

In addition to explaining the type of HVAC company business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, number of positive reviews, reaching X amount of clients served, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the HVAC company industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the HVAC company industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your HVAC company business plan:

• How big is the HVAC company industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your HVAC company business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your HVAC company business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: families and households, businesses, and schools.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of HVAC company business you operate. Clearly, schools would respond to different marketing promotions than households, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other HVAC companies. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes construction companies, home developers, and retail stores that specialize in heating and cooling equipment.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other HVAC companies with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be HVAC company businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of heating and cooling units do they provide?
• What areas do they serve?
• What type of HVAC company are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Are your heating and cooling units more capable than the competition’s?
• Will you provide HVAC services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide faster delivery and installation time?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a HVAC company business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of HVAC company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to HVAC company services, will you provide biannual maintenance, cost comparisons, preventive maintenance, and any other services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your HVAC company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your HVAC company business located near a warehouse district, an office complex, an urban setting, or a busy neighborhood, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your HVAC company marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Commercials
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your HVAC company business, including dispatching your technicians to their assigned locations for the day, fueling the vehicles, scheduling services, and informing clients of location and status updates.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to obtain your XXth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your HVAC company to a new location.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your HVAC company business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing HVAC companies. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a HVAC company or are connected to a wide network of professional associations.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you take on one new client at a time or multiple new clients with multiple vehicles and technicians ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your HVAC company business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. 

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a HVAC company business:

• Cost of vehicles and equipment
• Cost of fuel, supplies, and HVAC company overhead
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your HVAC vehicles cost, types of clients you will be targeting, and the areas your HVAC company business will serve.  

Putting together a business plan for your HVAC company business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the HVAC company industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful HVAC company business.  

HVAC Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my hvac company business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your HVAC Company Business Plan.

Where Can I Download an HVAC Business Plan PDF?

You can download our HVAC business plan PDF  here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of HVAC company you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have an HVAC company that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of HVAC companies?

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your HVAC business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how a Growthink business plan consultant can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

HVAC Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

HVAC Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your HVAC business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their HVAC companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your HVAC business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company (HVAC) is a startup HVAC company located in Boise, Idaho. The company is founded by Arnie Anderson, a HVAC technician for over 20 years who has now determined the time is right to start his own company. Arnie has worked in every operational position in his former employer’s company and has a strong depth of experience and capability in every aspect of HVAC installation and repair.

The job requires a history of knowledge and thorough expertise of many systems within HVAC; Arnie has learned them all via trial and error or on-site. His customers for the past 20 years have learned to trust Arnie with all replacements or repairs for their HVAC systems, because of both his expertise and his encouraging and calm demeanor when dealing with difficult, sometimes emergency, situations.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will provide:

• Provide high-quality service in HVAC installation and repair for residential customers
• Use a “set-window” time frame for HVAC commercial customers in need of repair
• Utilize digital platforms as technical assistance tools for diagnostics and repairs
• Service industrial clients with infrastructure over 100,000 square feet
• Provide distinctive service to high-demand contractors, real estate agencies, and property management companies who require HVAC replacements or repairs
• Provide the most up-to-date and innovative HVAC systems and repair service

Customer Focus

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will target residential customers in the greater Boise area. They will also target commercial customers. They will search for and service industrial clients with large-space infrastructures. They will target contractors, real estate agencies and property management companies.

Management Team

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be owned and operated by Arnie Anderson. He has recruited two of his former assistants in his prior employment, Tex Rowan and Matt Rogers, to take on positions as Senior Technicians for Anderson’s HVAC. Tex and Matt together have over thirty years of experience as HVAC technicians and can instruct new employees, as well as diagnose, repair or rebuild HVAC systems.

Success Factors

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team at Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company
• Provide a unique “set-window” urgent-response time frame for HVAC commercial customers
• Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will offer the best pricing in town. Their pricing structure will be the most cost effective compared to the competition.

Financial Highlights

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company.

Company Overview

Who is anderson’s heating ventilation & air conditioning company.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is a newly established full-service HVAC company in Boise, Idaho. Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and efficient choice for residents, commercial customers, and industrial clients within Boise and the surrounding communities. Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will provide a comprehensive menu of diagnostic and repair services for any client to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a unique service that provides “set time” responses for commercial clients with urgent HVAC needs.

  Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be able to provide distinctive, high-quality replacements and repairs to all residents and commercial establishments. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in HVAC processes and can provide either replacements, when necessary, or repair within a short window of time. Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company removes all headaches and issues of the problems that can occur with HVAC systems, particularly in extremely cold winter weather. The unique response time system of Anderson’s HVAC ensures all issues are taken care of expeditiously while delivering the best customer service.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company History

Since incorporation, Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company, LLC to transact business in the state of Idaho.
• Has a contract in place at one of the office buildings in midtown Boise.
• Will set up its 10,000 square foot office space
• Reached out to numerous contacts and former clients to consider services from Andersons HVAC.
• Began recruiting a staff of ten and office personnel to work at Anderson’s HVAC company.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company Services

The following will be the services Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will provide:

Industry Analysis

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning service industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $309 billion. The growth will be driven by the population increases which continue to create a need for HVAC replacement and repairs. The growth will be driven by the innovative new HVAC systems and products, such as the tankless water heater, that will be requested by customers who desire a more sustainable environment for their homes. The growth will be driven by innovation not-yet-known, as older materials and processes give way to newer high-tensile products that can replace steel wraps, tanks and ducts. Costs will likely be reduced as the worldwide economy continues to remain at a healthy level and commerce is not detained by political forces.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will target residential and commercial clients in Boise, Idaho. They will search for and service industrial clients with large-space infrastructures. They will target contractors, real estate agencies and property management companies.

Customer Segmentation

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Residents of Boise region
• Commercial clients of greater Boise area
• Industrial clients (100,000 square foot facilities) in the greater Boise region
• Real estate agencies, contractors and property management companies in Boise

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Middleton HVAC Company

The Middleton HVAC Company is headquartered approximately 30 miles from Boise, Idaho. The company has been in business for five years, providing installations of new water heaters for the fast-growing bedroom communities of Boise. The owner, Mitch Carter, has extensive experience in water heater installation, having formerly worked for a company that manufactures and installs water heaters. He, along with two employees, work on new home construction, assembling and installing water heaters on a large volume basis.

The Middleton HVAC Company does not specialize in installation, repair or replacement of heating, ventilation or air conditioning units; however, the water heaters are heavily prominent in the business and some HVAC work is also completed for select clients. This company is focused on new home starts; as such, the next Middleton community is on their radar for sales and installation purposes. The company installs basic water heaters, without offering tankless water heaters, and includes typical instructions and safety warnings with those heaters. Repairs are often secondary to installation, which has led to some first-time homeowner complaints.

COC Company

The COC Company is an abbreviation of the full company name: Cooling Or Cold Company, which describes the installation, replacement or repairs offered by this company. Because of heat during the summer, cooling systems are required. The extreme cold during the winters in Idaho create the need for operational heating systems. These two weather patterns drive the systems comprising the scope of installation and servicing of the COC Company.

The COC Company is owned and operated by Tabor Nugent, who started the business in 2010. Since that time, he has hired one additional service repair representative and two administrative office staff. Tabor has found a niche in hot and cold weather systems, which he believes are the solutions for the weather patterns of the Boise region.

Thomas & Marsh HVAC Company

Thomas & Marsh HVAC Company was established in 1995 and has been a part of the Boise, Idaho community in several interactive ways throughout the years. The company has built and maintained an active community within area company owners and has started various associations to support local businesses. Terry Thomas is the owner and president of the company, and handles most of the client relations. Matt Marsh is the vice president of the company, overseeing the scheduling and other operations duties. Both Terry and Matt are active in the community organizations, encouraging camaraderie among all businesses.

In 2010, Thomas & March HVAC placed all services into a “mobile repair” mode, which resulted in increased customer calls for urgent repairs in cold weather or other electrically-challenged situations. This created a following of clients who continue to use the mobile repair service rather than calling a competitor, as the impression given to clients is that the repairs will be available within minutes instead of within hours.

Competitive Advantage

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide the most up-to-date and innovative HVAC systems and repair service.
• Provide a unique “set-window” urgent-response time frame for HVAC customers
• Unbeatable pricing for clients; creating the best pricing options available

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is owned by Arnie Anderson, who has built up a stellar reputation as an installation, replacement, and repair expert in the HVAC industry. His long and extensive list of clients over the years has been bolstered by recent publicity after Arnie saved a family from extreme danger when searching for a systemic leak. By providing exceptional service and expertise to his clients, Arnie can now ask former clients to spread the word about Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning to help build his company rapidly.

Professional Associations and Networking

Boise, Idaho is a medium-sized city and, as such, is a community-focused one, as well. Neighbors are friends, as are repair personnel, installation teams, construction groups and others. Arnie Anderson intends to solicit new customers and network among several groups for the first time since starting his company, as he knows referrals and word-of-mouth comments will lead to the success of his company.

Print Advertising

Two weeks before the launch of the company, a direct mail item will be sent to every resident in Boise, inviting all to take part in special “launch prices” during the first two weeks of the grand opening of the company. Customers are invited to visit and get a discount voucher for installation, replacement or repair of HVAC systems.

Website/SEO Marketing

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will utilize their website, which will be well-organized, informative, and provide a list of services that Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is able to offer. The website will also list their contact information and list their available times if customers want to schedule a visit. The website will use SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “HVAC company” or “HVAC repair near me”, Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company. Operation Functions:

• Arnie Anderson will be the Owner and President of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations. Arnie has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Tex Rowan, a former associate of Arnie’s in his former position, will be a Senior Technician who will train new technicians and install, repair and replace HVAC equipment.
• Matt Rogers, a former associate of Arnie’s in his former position, will also be a Senior Technician who will oversee scheduling and operations of the team as a whole.
• Carrie Swanson will be the Office Manager, handling service calls, daily administration duties and assisting the technicians as needed.

Milestones:

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease office space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company
• 6/1/202X – Finalize long-term contracts for Anderson’s HVAC Company clients
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company office
• 7/1/202X – Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company opens its office for business

Arnie Anderson has recruited two of his former assistants in his prior employment, Tex Rowan and Matt Rogers, to take on positions as Senior Technicians for Anderson’s HVAC. Tex and Matt together have over thirty years of experience as HVAC technicians and can instruct new employees, as well as diagnose, repair or rebuild HVAC systems.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company are the fees they will charge to their customers for their products and services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Anderson’s Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Company is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its HVAC company. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of customers Per Month: 165
• Average fees for products and services per Month: $44,500
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, hvac business plan faqs, what is an hvac business plan.

An HVAC business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your HVAC business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your HVAC business plan using our HVAC Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of HVAC Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of HVAC businesses , some examples include: Residential HVAC company, Commercial HVAC company, and Industrial Company.

How Do You Get Funding for Your HVAC Business Plan?

HVAC businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start an HVAC Business?

Starting an HVAC business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop an HVAC Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed HVAC business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your HVAC business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your HVAC business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your HVAC Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your HVAC business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your HVAC business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary HVAC Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your HVAC business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your HVAC business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful HVAC business:

• How to Start an HVAC Business

Mastering HVAC Business Plans: A Comprehensive Guide with Templates

Diving into the HVAC industry or looking to pump some fresh air into your existing business? Well, you’ve landed in the right spot. Crafting a solid HVAC business plan might sound like just another item on your never-ending to-do list, but trust me, it’s the backbone of your venture’s success.

Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to elevate your game, a well-thought-out business plan is your roadmap to navigating the competitive landscape, securing those all-important funds, and steering your business toward growth.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process. We’re talking about a no-fluff, straight-to-the-point guide that’ll help you craft a plan as efficient as a top-notch HVAC system.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get down to business, shall we?

Bonus: Get a free HVAC business plan template to quickly and easily plan map out your business strategy. It’s a blueprint designed to guide you through each critical component of your business plan, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

Key Components of a Successful HVAC Business Plan

Get your free hvac business plan here, you’re now ready to create your hvac business plan, frequently asked questions about the hvac business plan, 1. executive summary.

The executive summary is your business plan’s handshake. It’s your first impression on the potential investors, partners, or even key employees.

An effective executive summary is clear, concise, and compelling. It must outline:

• About your business,
• your HVAC business’s mission and values,
• your business goals,
• and why your business is uniquely positioned to succeed.

It’s also the spot to highlight your financial goals and needs, offering a snapshot of your growth plans and how you intend to achieve them.

Think of the executive summary as your elevator pitch in written form. It needs to grab attention, summarizing the most exciting parts of your business plan and encouraging the reader to dive deeper into the details.

Keep your executive summary short (less than one page). The rest of your business plan will provide all the necessary details to your readers.

2. Company Description

A detailed company description is your opportunity to dive deeper into what your HVAC business does, who it serves, and what sets it apart from competitors.

Here’s how you can structure this section:

a. Start with your business’s foundation: Describe when and why you started your HVAC business, the inspiration behind it, and the journey so far. This narrative helps build a connection with the reader.

b. Outline your HVAC services: List your services, such as installation, maintenance, repair, or energy efficiency consultations. Be specific about what makes your services unique or superior to your competitors.

c. Define your target market: Who are your services designed for? Residential homeowners, commercial businesses, or specialized industries? Understanding your target market is crucial for tailoring your business strategies effectively.

d. Explain your unique value proposition (UVP): What makes your HVAC business the go-to option for your target customers? It could be your exceptional customer service, innovative technology use, or commitment to sustainability. Your UVP is what distinguishes you from the competition.

e. Examples for inspiration: Consider including a brief case study or testimonial that showcases your business’s success in solving a particular problem or fulfilling a need within your target market. This real-life example can illustrate your company’s value and effectiveness.

Your company description should paint a clear picture of your business, its values, and its objectives. It’s not just about what you do but why you do it and who benefits from your services.

This section is where your passion and expertise should shine through. It convinces readers that your HVAC business is not just another HVAC company but a vital service provider dedicated to making a difference in people’s comfort and well-being.

3. Understand Your Competitors

Understanding your competitors is not just about knowing who they are but also their strategies, strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning.

Conduct a thorough competitive analysis to ensure your business can discover its niche and stand out.

Here’s how to tackle this:

a. Identify Your Competitors: List direct competitors (those offering similar services in your area) and indirect competitors (those offering substitute or related services).

b. Analyze Their Strategies and Performance: Look into their services, pricing models, marketing tactics, customer reviews, and market reputation. Tools and resources like their websites, social media profiles, and customer feedback can provide invaluable insights.

c. Evaluate Their Strengths and Weaknesses: Pinpoint what they do well and where they fall short. This can help you identify opportunities to differentiate your services or improve upon areas where competitors are lacking.

d. Position Your HVAC Business: Using the information gathered, determine how your business can offer something unique or better. Find your edge, whether it’s superior customer service, innovative technology solutions, or more competitive pricing.

Include a competitive analysis in your business plan. It demonstrates to investors and stakeholders that you have a deep understanding of the market landscape and are prepared to compete effectively.

This section should showcase your knowledge of the competition and how your HVAC business is positioned for success in comparison.

4. Operational Plan

The operational plan of your HVAC business lays out the nuts and bolts of daily operations. It tells how your company functions on a foundational level. This includes:

a. Legal Structure: Decide on the legal structure of your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation). Each has its implications for liability, taxes, and operational complexity. So, choose the one that best suits your business size and goals.

b. Location: Your business location should be strategically chosen based on your target market, accessibility for employees and customers, and the logistics of your service area. Whether you’re operating from a commercial space or a home office, ensure it supports efficient operations.

c. Equipment Needed: Detail the equipment necessary to provide your HVAC services. It includes tools for installation, repair, maintenance, and any computers and vehicles for transportation. Also, consider the technology needed for business operations, such as HVAC scheduling software or customer relationship management (CRM) systems .

d. Operational Workflow: Describe the workflow of your services, from customer inquiry and service scheduling to job completion and follow-up. This includes how appointments are booked, how services are priced and invoiced , and how customer feedback is collected and addressed.

e. Supply Chain: Identify your suppliers for HVAC units, parts, and other necessary materials. Establishing reliable supplier relationships is crucial for maintaining service quality and efficiency.

f. Staffing: Outline your staffing needs, including technicians, customer service representatives, and any administrative or managerial roles. Include plans for recruitment, training, and retention to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce.

Your operational plan should provide a clear roadmap of your HVAC business’s daily functions. It showcases your strategy for delivering services efficiently and effectively. It also informs stakeholders about the practical aspects of your business and demonstrates your preparedness to manage the operational challenges of the HVAC industry.

5. Marketing Strategy

A dynamic and multi-faceted marketing strategy for HVAC businesses is key to attracting and retaining customers. In an industry where trust and reliability are paramount, how you promote your company can make a significant difference in its growth and success.

In this section, write down your current sales and marketing strategies, as well as any new ones you’ll be using this year, such as:

a. HVAC Website: Your digital storefront. Ensure it’s user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and optimized for search engines . Highlight your services, customer testimonials, and contact information prominently.

b. Social Media Marketing: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can help you connect with your community, share valuable tips on HVAC maintenance, and promote special offers.

c. Lead Generation Sites: Use platforms like DemandHub , HomeAdvisor, or Angie’s List to capture leads from customers actively looking for HVAC services.

d. Facebook Page for Your Business: Regularly update your business page with engaging content, service promotions, and helpful HVAC tips to keep your audience engaged and informed.

e. Customer Referral Program: Encourage word-of-mouth marketing by rewarding customers who refer new clients to your business. This can be a powerful tool in building a loyal customer base.

f. Local Services Ads on Google: Take advantage of Google’s Local Services ads to appear at the top of search results when people search for HVAC services in your area.

g. HVAC Business Cards, Flyers, or Door Hangers: Don’t underestimate the power of traditional marketing. Well-designed print materials can be a cost-effective way to reach local customers.

h. Sales Team Strategy: If you have a sales team, outline their roles, responsibilities, and compensation. Detail your strategies for training them on making effective sales calls and converting leads into customers.

For each marketing tactic, setting a budget and measuring the return on investment (ROI) is essential. Estimate your spending for each activity (e.g., $960 to print postcards, $250 for a DIY website) and plan your marketing budget accordingly.

This approach will help you allocate resources effectively and ensure your marketing efforts are targeted and efficient.

6. Financial Projections

Realistic financial projections are crucial for the success of your HVAC business. These projections help you, potential investors, and financial institutions understand the viability of your business model.

Here’s how to approach this:

a. Startup Costs: List all the initial expenses required to get your business off the ground. This includes equipment purchases, vehicle costs, licensing fees, initial marketing expenses, and any other capital investment needed to start operating.

b. Revenue Forecasts: Estimate your sales for the first 3-5 years. Consider factors such as the size of your target market, pricing strategy, and expected market share growth. Be conservative in your estimates and base your projections on realistic market research.

c. Break-even Analysis: Calculate the point at which your business will start to generate a profit. This involves determining the fixed and variable costs and identifying how much revenue is needed to cover these costs. Knowing your break-even point is essential for setting financial goals and assessing the financial health of your business.

d. Profit and Loss Statement: Project your income and expenses over time to show potential profitability. This should include direct costs (like materials and labor), indirect costs (such as marketing and utilities), and your expected profit margins.

e. Cash Flow Projections: Analyze the inflow and outflow of cash to ensure you have enough liquidity to cover day-to-day operations. Positive cash flow is essential for the sustainability of your business.

f. Capital Requirements: If you’re seeking investment or loans, clearly outline how much funding you need and how you’ll use it. This demonstrates to investors that you have a clear plan for using their capital to grow your business.

Financial projections should be based on thorough research and realistic assumptions. They help you plan for the future and demonstrate to stakeholders that your HVAC business is a sound investment.

With DemandHub’s HVAC business plan template, you can assess every aspect of your business, pinpoint areas that require improvement, and maintain focus on the overall vision.

After completing your business plan, you’ll be equipped to attract more clients and run a successful HVAC business.

How Profitable Is the HVAC Industry?

The HVAC industry is highly profitable, with strong demand driven by the need for heating and cooling systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Profitability depends on service quality, market positioning, and operational efficiency.

What Is an HVAC Business Plan?

An HVAC business plan is a detailed document outlining your business’s goals, strategies, market analysis, operational structure, and financial projections. It is a roadmap for starting and growing your HVAC business, attracting investors, and managing your company effectively.

How Do I Get More Business in HVAC?

To get more business in HVAC, focus on quality service, build a solid online presence, engage in local marketing efforts, offer competitive pricing, and create referral programs. Networking with real estate agents and contractors can also generate new leads.

How Can I Make a Lot of Money in HVAC?

If you want to make a lot of money in HVAC, then:

• specialize in high-demand services,
• focus on customer satisfaction to generate repeat business and referrals,
• Expand your service area,
• and continuously improve your team’s skills and efficiency.

Offering maintenance contracts can also provide steady income.

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How to Create a Solid HVAC Business Plan [+ FREE Template]

• February 1, 2022
• Or Rozenberg
• 11 min read

What can we say? America loves staying comfortable indoors, whether that’s air conditioning at the perfect temperature in the summer or just the right about of heat to keep us toasty come wintertime.

If you’ve decided to start your own HVAC business, now is an excellent time. There continues to be an increased demand, and competition is fierce. What’s particularly great about diving into the HVAC industry is you can start as small or as big as your startup budget can provide. Part-time HVAC owners can bring in a side income with their full-time job, growing as they bring in more revenue and more long-term clients.

By proactively planning their next steps, business owners can meet their goals more efficiently, such as attracting more customers, fewer job cancellations, and an overall growth perspective. The best way to plan for your business is to have a written, formal business plan.

The importance of having a business plan in the HVAC industry

Your HVAC business plan is a formal document that you’ve created that outlines who your business is now and where you want your business to be in the future. It’s more than just sharing your goals. It’s developing a step-by-step outline of how you’re going to achieve them and what you need to get there.

As you grow your business, you can look back on your business plan as a guide to where you should focus your efforts, especially if you hit an unexpected slump. With an effective business plan, you’ll be able to expect the unexpected more quickly and take the proper measures without any wasted downtime.

Not only is your HVAC business plan a handbook of your business, but it’s also a huge asset when your company is applying for investments or funding. Investors will be able to see the map you’ve laid out and be more likely to decide in your favor. It’ll also give you an idea of just how much money you need investors to finance. The last thing you want is to ask for too little when it was probable that you could have attained more.

How to write an HVAC business plan

Some of the most successful businesses in the HVAC industry have created their in-depth, impressive business plans from a template. We’d be willing to believe that some reputable brands have started by finding a free business plan template from a reliable website like Workiz and used it to make their plan their own.

Your HVAC business plan doesn’t need to read like a resume, where there’s only one way to do it, although structured paragraphs and subheadings will make it easier to read and refer to. There are some key components you should consider including to ensure you cover every area needed to promote your business and reach your goals.

Executive summary

Business overview.

• Startup Summary
• List of HVAC services & Prices

Market analysis

Business operations.

• Marketing and Sales Plan

Financial plan

Your cover page will outline the basic information about your business. This includes your business name, address, your name, your logo, branding, etc. Think of it as an introduction to your business.

Your executive summary should only be one page that outlines what a reader can expect to see throughout the rest of your business plan. It acts as an aspect and summary highlights the key information geared toward whoever is reading your business plan. It should include the essential facts included in your business overviews, such as the history of your business and your mission statement. In many cases, you can change your executive summary depending on whether the reader is a potential investor or a member of your team.

The HVAC executive summary can include the amount of money you hope to have invested or what sets your company apart from the competition.

Your business overview will provide the foundation of your business. It will spotlight your company’s mission, values, purpose, and vision. It outlines the structure of your business and the roles of important stakeholders and key players. It also includes the legal structure of your HVAC company (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation). If you are a corporation, it will include your registered business name and number as well as your corporate number. Here is where you can also highlight your business goals.

Startup summary

Your Startup summary can be a key section of your business plan for potential investors. It’s crucial for business owners who are starting up from scratch and want to outline the tools and equipment they need, the costs involved, and the prices they will need to charge to break even in the first year or two. Your startup costs can include items as simple as uniforms to large capital assets such as a truck.

List of HVAC services & prices

Under this section, you will list the services your HVAC company provides. Before creating this list, you will likely have researched the industry, gotten an idea of what your competitors are doing, and found some gaps your business can fill. You can also outline the price of each service, whether it’s hourly or by the job, etc.

Your market analysis should include a detailed description of who your customers are and their needs and demographics. If you haven’t had the opportunity to provide your services to customers yet, that’s okay. In this area, it’s more about the research you’ve done to get an idea of how you want to position yourself in the market. For example, you will list the age, gender, income, area of a particular city, etc. What makes this audience unique, and what makes up their needs and wants?

You can also outline who your competitors are in this section. What services are they providing that you aren’t? What type of customers are they attracting? How large is their team, and are they charging similar prices for their services? This area, of course, will change as you and your competitors change.

This section dives deeper into the “how” of your business. It will outline what equipment you own or rent, the software, and hardware, such as laptops and smartphones, and the applications downloaded onto them, as well as the administrative side of your business. You can list your employee roles (including your own), salaries, invoice processes, tax processes, and more.

Don’t leave gaps, as the more information you provide in this section, the more legitimate your business will be to investors. It proves you’ve put in all the work necessary and are serious about your brand’s growth.

Other sections you may choose to include are both your short-term and long-term assets.

Marketing and sales plan

Typically your marketing plan is separate from your business plan. In this section, however, you can outline a few strategies you have in mind to start bringing in new customers. You can also outline your sales funnel and the steps your potential customers will take to acquire your services. Much of your marketing and sales plan can include your focus on building a landing page or website and developing a base following on local social media.

Your financial plan is the most vital component of your HVAC business plan, especially if you’re not already bridging in a supportable revenue stream. This section should include what assets you already have, the debt you already owe, and any projected income you are relying on receiving in the near future (think expenses, revenue, outstanding invoices, bank funding, etc.) It would be best to outline your financial goals in as much detail as possible and why. Provide a budget for the next few years based on your sales forecast.

Your summary should be simple. Give a brief overview of what was just covered without repeating everything said. You should also retake this opportunity to achieve your “ask.” If a potential investor is reading, you want to make it as straightforward as possible how you want their help. Sometimes investors will offer to review your business plan solely to get an idea of who you are and what your business goals will be. If you don’t include the fact that you’re open to investors, they could simply say “looks good” and move on to another project.

Click here to download our free HVAC business plan template, including critical elements you’ll need to maximize the success of your business. Simply go to the three dots icon on the right upper bar menu and hit “Download” to print the file and fill it in.

Final thoughts

It’s important to remember that you don’t need to get swamped by the idea of perfection. If your business is brand new, your plan will likely need only contain the basics. As you grow and get an idea of where your business is heading, that’s when you can adapt and change your HVAC business plan to meet the needs of your clients and your business.

The HVAC industry isn’t disappearing as long as we need homes to live in. Building a business plan that can act as a handbook to success curated by yours truly can truly help you stand out from your competitors, bring in new clients, and reduce the risk of cancellations. It’s one of the many tools you should have with you as you dive into life as a business owner.

What are some other handy tools entrepreneurs in the HVAC industry can utilize? You can power your business with the integrations available from Workiz . Manage everything from one platform and allow yourself more time to focus on what really matters. HVAC teams using Workiz increase their revenue by 22% on average . Reach out for a conversation today.

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Level Up Your HVAC Business Plan Every Year to Ignite New Growth

Running an HVAC company on hopes and dreams, or without a solid HVAC business plan, can only take you so far. Sure, you might make it out of the gate as a startup and gain new customers along the way, but then business growth starts to slow down, so you begin looking for ways to get unstuck and grow your customer base.

That’s when you need to simply focus on your HVAC business plan, says Chris Hunter, Principal Industry Advisor for ServiceTitan. Remember that living, breathing document with all of your goals, strategies, and visions? It’s where you’ll find the answers you seek for igniting growth.

“If you don't have any vision of what you actually want to accomplish, the odds of you getting there are very slim,” says Hunter, paraphrasing one of his favorite Yogi Berra quotes. He says it’s a lesson he learned early on as a service business owner and founder of Hunter Super Techs .

“We didn't have a plan,” Hunter says, “It was just, ‘Let's just keep doing what we're doing and hope we get better.’ It was just a bunch of hope.”

Rather than rely on hope, Hunter turned to his mentor Ben Stark to learn more about annual planning and how important it is for growing an HVAC services business. It’s about HVAC business owners creating a strategic roadmap with specific business goals for each department, then holding team members accountable for results on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis.

Hunter says that, once he updated his HVAC business plan following Stark’s annual planning advice, the results were amazing.

“The first year after we did it, we went from single-digit profitability to double-digit profitability, just because we had a plan,” says Hunter, who later joined Stark as co-founders of the Go Time Success Group , a business consulting and coaching firm, and as co-authors of It’s Go-Time in 2020.

With the fight for talent tougher than ever in the HVAC industry, Hunter says HVAC contractors who tend to succeed are the ones who have the vision, the business plan, and the culture.

“And this doesn't happen by accident. They have to be very strategic in creating this, and it’s exactly what you do when you go through an annual planning process,” Hunter says. “You design what you stand for, where you're going, and how you're going to do it.”

To help HVAC contractors get started, we compiled a sample HVAC business plan template.  In the guide below, we outline the most important information to include in each section.

Table of Contents

Why You Need a Business Plan Each Year

HVAC Business Plan

Executive Summary

Company overview, products and services, marketing plan, operational plan, management and organization, personal and company financial statement, financial plan.

Before getting into the nuts and bolts of what to include in a business plan, it’s important to understand why you need one in the first place, and how reviewing and refreshing your business plan every year can help to supercharge your HVAC business operations.

Crafting your HVAC business plan gives you a roadmap for becoming a successful HVAC business, providing in-depth analysis of what it’s going to take to get there. A business plan is meant to be tweaked and adjusted as sales forecasts and economic conditions change, and reviewing it each year keeps your small business ahead of the game.

“Every year, you still have to adjust the plan and make sure there's nothing in there that needs to be tweaked,” Hunter says. “What did we do good? What did we do bad? What external threats are there (like a pending recession)? Or what do we need to be aware of?"

Once you understand who you are, where you want to go, and what key performance indicators (KPIs) will take you there, Hunter says it's easy to reverse engineer and execute a successful business model and sales strategy.

“If I want to hit this sales goal, that means I need to produce X number of calls at a certain average ticket. And to do that, we need to generate this many leads,” Hunter explains. “And you can reverse engineer all the way back to your marketing, knowing exactly what we need to do to produce that number of calls, perform at that average ticket, and produce that revenue every month.”

While concerns about trying to grow a heating and air conditioning business in a struggling economy cause some HVAC contractors to hold back, Hunter says now’s not the time to take your foot off the gas.

“Great companies plan for it. They ramp up their marketing during a recession because they know they can grow,” Hunter says. “They make it easier on homeowners by offering different financing plans. They get smart about how they're offering their maintenance agreements. It's also a great time to acquire talent. If other companies aren't planning, and their techs aren't busy or they're laying off, now's the time to get the talent that's available out there in the marketplace.”

Read on to learn how to break down each section of your own HVAC business plan.

HVAC Business Plan 

While the executive summary appears as the first page of your HVAC business plan, Hunter advises doing it last so it truly summarizes the overall picture for your company’s short-term and long-term goals.

“We've done all the planning and the strategizing, we know what we're going to do. Now let's just make it really concise,” he says. “This is our summary of, ‘Alright, here's what we're going to do, here are the next steps, and let's go get it.’"

Make your executive summary two pages or fewer, and try to write it in a professional and concise, but enthusiastic, voice. Explain your air conditioning or HVAC systems products, your target audience, and specific goals for employing highly qualified HVAC technicians and growing your HVAC business. If applying for funding, specify the amount and how you plan to use it, and more importantly how it will increase your profit margins.

“Make it very clear and concise, and summarize the plan, so you don't go through a lot of work and then the thing just sits on the shelf,” Hunter advises.

In your HVAC company overview, lay out the details of your mission statement and how you plan to accomplish certain goals and objectives. Describe the marketplace in which you operate, the industry outlook for installing air conditioners and heating systems in your region, and your most important company strengths and core competencies.

Include the following components in the company overview:

Goals and Objectives : Your goals, objectives, and KPIs change every year, so make sure your HVAC business plan outlines a path for achieving success within a certain time period, then measure the results. Look at your goals as destinations, your objectives as progress markers along the way, and KPIs as a tool for measuring overall success.

Marketplace: Define your core customer base and explain your HVAC marketing strategy, including the marketing channels you plan to use. You don’t need to go over the entire marketing strategy or every billboard placement here. In fact, keep it brief. Save the key details for the Marketing Plan section of your business plan.

Industry outlook: Your business plan needs to demonstrate your knowledge about the HVAC industry, including its current state and expected forecast. Is it a growth industry? What changes do you foresee in the industry, short term and long term? How will your company be poised to take advantage of them?

“A contractor can't have their blinders on and only look at what's going on in their company. They need to take time to look around and see what's happening elsewhere with other companies and in the industry in general,” Hunter says.

You can find statistics readily available online from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and other organizations and trade groups. Hunter says ServiceTitan customers can see real-time market insights as well as how their HVAC shop stacks up against others in the market by accessing their ServiceTitan Benchmark Report . 

Strengths and core competencies : What strengths set you apart from the competition? Will you offer services currently not available in the market? How will you train your staff to succeed? What background experience, skills, and strengths do you personally bring to this venture? Will you offer 100% customer satisfaction on every job?

Legal form of ownership: Describe the type of business you operate. Is it a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability corporation (LLC)? 

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In this section, you’ll outline the most important part of your business: HVAC products and services. It’s also a good place to tweak and streamline the plan each year when you discover a certain product or service isn’t delivering like you thought it would.

“A lot of times, we'll chase after something and realize, ‘My goodness, we're putting a lot of effort into this product or this service and it's really only producing a fraction of our revenue.’ What I love to do during this time is identify the top 20% of what's producing 80% of the revenue,” Hunter says. “I like to see what's producing, then let's figure out, how do we really amp this up?”

Highlight any factors that give you a competitive advantage over other HVAC contractors in your service area. For example, do your service technicians possess advanced skills that enable them to work on high-efficiency HVAC systems or install high-tech indoor air quality systems?

Then, clearly answer the question, “Why us?”

“Why would somebody choose you? What makes you better than the other umpteen companies they can call very easily?” Hunter explains. “By identifying why you're better, whether that's your guarantees or warranties, whatever it may be, it not only helps you with your marketing message, but it also helps your team.”

Next, mention the pricing or fee structures for your HVAC services. Will you price HVAC jobs by the hour, or offer flat-rate pricing? Examine the wage rate in your area to ensure you pay your employees a competitive salary. Also include the hourly rate, how you’ll account for drive time, and billable amount for every job or service you offer.

HVAC businesses utilize marketing tactics to promote their companies, generate new business, and entice repeat customers. Hunter says marketing strategies based on real-time data and brand consistency are the most important factors to consider here.

“If you're using ServiceTitan, pull up your marketing dashboard and let's look at the data. What's the data telling us about our marketing? What's working, what's not? What should we double down on, what should we not? I think the data tells a pretty compelling story,” he says.

Also, don’t lose track of brand messaging throughout the year, and try to keep all content uniform and consistent across your website, on company vans, on uniforms, etc.

Your HVAC marketing plan includes the following components:

Understand the economics of your target market and include a market analysis, such as the current size and demand in the market, median household income, employment rate, as well as growth potential and opportunity for a business of your size.

Products and Features

Describe in detail all of your products, features, and HVAC work. For features, explain what sets your business apart from the competition. For benefits, clearly articulate the value you bring to the customer. 

Reaching your ideal customer profile (ICP) requires identifying your target audience, including their demographics, income, geographic location, age, home type, and more. 

Describe how you market to consumers, known as B2C marketing, or to other businesses, referred to as B2B marketing. If it’s a combination of both, you’ll likely need to create separate ICPs for B2B and B2C.

Systematically analyze your industry, product, customers, and the competition to determine where your company uniquely fits into the market. This is your niche. In a single paragraph, describe your unique position in the industry and how you plan to use it to promote your HVAC business. 

Use various marketing strategies or a mix of marketing channels to reach the right audience at the right time. This may involve digital marketing, such as search engine optimization (SEO), Google ads, and social media, or direct mail, billboards and banners. Bottom line: You want to reach as many potential customers as possible, so don’t be afraid to try different marketing strategies.

Your strategy should also include the average cost to acquire a new customer, and take into account other marketing drivers, such as club memberships and word-of-mouth referral programs. 

If you fail to measure or track marketing campaign results, how will you ever know if they worked? Always use data to fuel marketing initiatives, so you can focus your budget on campaigns that generate the most revenue for optimal growth. In today’s digital-first world, HVAC contractors increasingly use field management software to run their marketing initiatives and track ROI. 

For instance, ServiceTitan’s Marketing Scorecard ranks all of your campaigns by revenue so you can see which ones generate the most revenue in real-time. With ServiceTitan Marketing Pro , you can build direct mail campaigns, create and send hyper-targeted email campaigns, track your online presence across multiple reviews sites, and easily monitor and identify wasted marketing spend or new opportunities through full-funnel digital ads dashboards that show true ROI.

Explain the daily operations of your business, its location, equipment, people, processes, and surrounding environment.

“This is the part that's so important to involve your team in,” Hunter says. “Have your leaders create their own action plan of how they're going to drive the results in their specific area. Whether it's a service manager, install manager, the CSR manager, the admin manager, whatever it is. If they'll own it, they'll want to drive the change to make this happen.”

The operational plan includes:

Production : How and where are your services produced? Be sure to include production techniques and costs, quality control, customer service, and inventory control.

Location : What requirements do you need in a physical location? Mention the amount of space, type of building, zoning, and utilities.

Legal: Include licensing and bonding requirements, permits, environmental regulations, industry-specific rules, zoning or building code requirements, and liability insurance.

Personnel: List the number of employees, type of labor (skilled, unskilled, and professional), recruiting efforts, pay structure, training programs, and job descriptions.

Inventory and suppliers: Include the kind of inventory (raw materials, supplies, finished goods), the estimated value, and your top suppliers.

Credit policies: Will you sell your services on credit or offer financing? If so, how will you approve customers or determine creditworthiness?

Describe the key roles and job descriptions for all leadership roles in your organization, including the general manager, operations manager, HVAC technicians, and others. What experience do they bring to the business? Do they hold special or distinctive competencies? Is there a plan for continuation of the business if leadership is lost or incapacitated?

Review your business plan each year to evaluate your current staff, then make sure each employee knows what’s expected of them.

“Do we have the right people in the right seat on the bus? If not, maybe it's time to make some changes or move things around,” Hunter says.

Include personal financial statements for each owner and major stockholder, showing assets and liabilities held outside the HVAC business and personal net worth. Bankers and investors will want this information if you’re applying for financing.

The financial plan typically includes a 12-month profit and loss projection, cash-flow statements, a cash-flow projection, a projected balance sheet, and a break-even calculation. Together, they present a reasonable estimate of your HVAC company’s financial projections. More importantly, the process of systematically breaking down the financial plan will improve your insight into the inner financial workings of your company.

Compile all materials, details, and studies used in your business plan in the Appendices section, so they’re readily available for future reference.

Hunter offers a final message about annual planning for HVAC contractors.

“The best companies out there, the ones that are highly performing, they're all doing this,” he says. “If someone's not doing this, it's never too late to start. Don't be intimidated by it. You don't have to be perfect the first year, you just need to get started. Every year you do it, this thing can get even better.”

>> Ready to set your HVAC shop up for growth and success? Download our free HVAC business plan template.

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How to Write a Winning HVAC Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for HVAC businesses who want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every HVAC business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Business Plan Template

What is an HVAC Business Plan?

An HVAC business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write an HVAC Business Plan?

An HVAC business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective HVAC Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful HVAC business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of an HVAC business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your HVAC business.  
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your HVAC business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your HVAC business , mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen HVAC business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of an HVAC business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the HVAC industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, the customers of an HVAC business may include:

• Businesses (e.g., small businesses, large corporations)
• Industrial complexes
• Hospitals and other health care facilities

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or HVAC services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service: Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price: Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place: Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion: How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, or launch a direct mail campaign. And, you may use a combination of these marketing channels.

Operations Plan

This part of your HVAC business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for an HVAC business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include adding new products/services, expanding to new markets, and opening new locations.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to the HVAC industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue: how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold: These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss): Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss

Sample Income Statement for a Startup HVAC Business

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup HVAC Business

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup HVAC business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup HVAC Business

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your HVAC business . It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it. It forces you to think through all aspects of your business including marketing, finances, operations and more. Ultimately, a well thought out business plan is the key to a successful HVAC business.  

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How To Develop Your HVAC Mission Statement + Examples

HVAC Business Plan: Definition, Examples & Templates

• October 12, 2022

Starting your own HVAC business is a huge undertaking. There are business plans, startup costs, marketing plans, social media, and licenses to think about, among so much more.

This guide will help you with a key cornerstone of your business: your HVAC business plan. We will explain each section of the business plan and how it will help you grow your HVAC business. We will also address frequently asked questions and provide a template to kickstart your HVAC business plan process!

HVAC Business Plan Sections

1. executive summary.

The executive summary of your HVAC business plan is the introduction of your business. It quickly explains a few important points: the name of your HVAC business, what need or problem your business is addressing, a general overview of your HVAC services, your target market, and a snapshot of financials, such as startup costs, recurring expenses, and forecasted revenue.

This can seem like a lot of boxes to check in one to two paragraphs as a business owner. Remember to keep this section simple. The following sections will give you plenty of room to expand upon your plans for a successful HVAC business!

2. Service Offerings

The service offerings section of your HVAC business plan breaks down your service into a concrete offering. This section allows you to explain the details of your HVAC services.

Some things to consider when writing this section: the name of the HVAC service, a description, how a technician does the service, what benefits a customer receives from this service, and the cost.

3. Market Analysis

To have a successful HVAC business, it’s important to understand your competition, the current economy, and the needs of your geographic area. The market analysis section of your HVAC business plan is where you can research these factors. You will then consider how your discoveries will affect your HVAC business.

Some questions to begin understanding the HVAC market to ask yourself are:

How many competitors do I have? Which of those are my biggest competitors? What are my strengths and weaknesses? What are the strengths and weaknesses of my competition, and how do these present themselves as opportunities for me? What do the potential customers in this area need? What time of year do most people need HVAC services?

4. Business Operations

The business operations section is where your HVAC business ideas become concrete plans. This can include your policies and procedures, your office and transportation logistics, resources and suppliers, and ideal deadlines or goals.

It also includes how many employees and technicians you intend to hire, plus their wages and training plans. This would be a great opportunity to consider SkillMill from Interplay Learning.

SkillMill makes training efficient, relevant, and scalable while saving you time and effort. With 300+ hours of content and hands-on 3D simulations, it’s like having another expert on your team.

5. Marketing Plans

Marketing to the community is very important when starting an HVAC business. Use this section to strategize, rationalize, and budget for your different marketing ideas. Some marketing ideas to consider are social media, direct mail, email, billboards, radio ads, flyers, online digital ads, and more! Get creative.

6. Financial Planning

This section of your HVAC business plan is where you can precisely calculate and list startup costs, inventory, marketing costs, month-to-month expenses, prospective hires and their wages, and forecasted revenue.

Frequently Asked HVAC Questions

Still have questions about starting your HVAC business? Here are a few of the most common questions asked by new HVAC business owners.

1. What is an HVAC Business Plan?

An HVAC Business Plan is a written document that explains your business, its goals, and how it plans to accomplish those goals. The components of an HVAC business plan include the executive summary, service offerings, market analysis, business operations, marketing plans, and financial planning.

2. How do I start my own HVAC Business?

Writing an HVAC business plan is a great place to start with your business.

A business plan will help you clarify your expenses, next steps, and goals toward starting a successful HVAC business.,

Starting an HVAC also includes obtaining the proper permits, certifications, and paperwork required in your state to legally start, own, and operate an HVAC company. You can speak to an attorney or legal expert in your area to point you in the right direction. You can also visit your local bank or connect with a Certified Public Accountant to discuss financials and tax filing information.

Finally, you will want to hire technicians and implement training processes to help you service your customers. Interplay Learning’s SkillMill can help you quickly and effectively train your new technicians through integrated virtual training.

3. How do I grow my HVAC Business?

Growing your HVAC business lies in good service and good marketing.

SkillMill can help you with this. Digital training can help you start an HVAC business more quickly and efficiently compared to traditional training methods. Your new hires will learn faster, easier, and better with SkillMill.

Growing your HVAC business starts with customer satisfaction and steady, growing revenue. SkillMill relies on proven learning methodology to increase learning retention rate and get techs job-ready in weeks, not years – resulting in well-trained technicians that get it right the first time. This means less callbacks, more referrals, and increased revenue.

In your business plan, you will outline a marketing strategy to help you promote your business and connect with prospective customers. Providing good service, however, is how businesses grow by word-of-mouth. Word-of-mouth business is ideal because it doesn’t cost you anything, unlike marketing online or buying billboards. More business and fewer expenses mean higher profit margins!

4. Why do HVAC Businesses fail?

While there are many factors that could cause a business to fail, one of the biggest causes is poor service or a lack of skills.

When you have technicians that quickly and effectively perform the job right the first time, you get satisfied customers that keep coming back for more and you know referrals from them are your best source of new business. If your technicians do not provide friendly service or don’t do the job correctly the first time, customers are less likely to use you again or refer more business, which decreases your revenue and profit margins.

Training with SkillMIll ensures that your technicians get the job right the first time. You are also relieved of the task of training yourself, hiring more employees, or taking your best technicians out of the field for training.

5. Do HVAC Owners make good money?

We often see HVAC business owners achieve six-figure incomes. On the high end, contractors can see $98,586 to $461,723 per year (and you don’t even need a college degree!)

When planning your finances, experts suggest that owners set aside 5 – 6% of total revenue for their salary. Using these figures, you could set goals for how much you personally want to make as an owner and engineer your yearly revenue goals for your business! For example, if you want to make $60,000 that year, and you set aside 5% of the revenue, you would want to bring in $1.2 million in total revenue.

Grow Your HVAC Company With Interplay

Interplay Learning’s digital training platform, SkillMill , can help you as an HVAC business owner increase revenue and scale your business. What makes SkillMill different from traditional training methods is its engaging 3D simulations and immersive VR that take hands-on training and safety to the next level.

This unique platform lets you train your new hires much more quickly and efficiently than traditional training, allowing them to take to the field sooner. SkillMill also becomes another expert on your team, making training efficient, current, and scalable while saving you time and effort when making critical investments in your people. With this kind of training, new technicians can face new situations, ask questions, and apply their skills in a risk-free environment without the fear of failure.

Boosting Your Bottom Line: How to Maximize Training ROI

Building and Measuring a Successful Training Program

Amplify Your Training Impact: Experts Share 3 Key Insights to Use Now

How to Generate a Positive ROI on Your In-House Training Program

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HVAC Business Plan Sample

JAN.24, 2018

Do you want to start own HVAC business?

Are you thinking about starting a HVAC business? Well, this business requires a lot of capital, manpower and industry knowledge but the rate of return you get after investing in it is simply worth the efforts. The biggest advantage in starting this business is that HVAC is one of the basic necessities of all large-scale buildings and as the number of these buildings increase, the market demand of hvac company business plan also increases. Moreover, after the installation of HVAC systems, they require regular inspection, maintenance, and repair that’s why this business yields a consistent revenue throughout the year. As with all businesses, the first step before starting any venture is to write a comprehensive hvac company business plan which will form the basis of your company’s future operations and decisions. A hvac company business plan provides information about everything which you will be needing to start your hvac company business plan as well as provides detailed guidelines about everything you will be doing in the next few years. If you are wondering how to write an effective plan of a business then here we are providingyou the business plan of an HVAC business startup named ‘Gan Engineering Services’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Gan Engineering Services will be a licensed and insured HVAC retailing, servicing and maintenance company which will offer a wide range of services revolving around the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. The company will be located in the main commercial center of the Manhattan borough in the New York City. Gan Engineering Services will be owned and operated by Gan Koch who has been associated with HVAC industry for the last 20 years and had been serving in Daikin Industries as the Regional Manager of the New York City for the last seven years. Being an expert in this field, Gan knows exactly how to start an HVAC business .

2.2 Management & Services

The company will be managed by Gan and his team of technicians and engineers. We will provide high-quality and affordable installation, inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and repair services. We will also ensure a top-notch customer service. Our every employee and technician will treat our customers and their valuable properties with utmost respect so as to build a long-lasting relationship with them. Our services will cost nearly the same as that of our competitors. You can also obtain a 10% discount for the first three months by getting our promotional heating and air business cards .

2.3 Customers & Competitive Analysis

The company aims to serve the local businesses, restaurants and hotels, private and government institutions, residential buildings, shopping malls, supermarkets, and high-rise commercial buildings located within the New York City. Although we have a lot of competitors yet we believe that our innovative idea will help us surpass all of them. We will introduce a BIM-integrated automatic fault detection system linked with a Building Information Model, which will directly notify us (the service provider) whenever a fault develops along with its location. So, no time will be wasted in finding the location of the fault and it will get treated as soon as possible, saving you a lot of inconvenience and money. This system can be easily installed in new as well as the existing HVAC systems.

2.4 Target of the Company

We aim to revolutionize the HVAC industry by our BIM-integrated automatic fault detection system. Our target is to become the best HVAC service provider in the New York City within next three years of our launch.

The 3 years targeted profit forecast is given in the chart below:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Gan Engineering Services will be owned and operated by Gan Koch who has been associated with HVAC industry for the last 20 years. Gan served in many HVAC industries after completing his Masters in Thermodynamics from Michigan State University. For the last seven years, he had been serving in Daikin Industries as the Regional Manager of the New York City. Being an expert in this industry, Gan has all the resources, experience and knowledge needed to start an HVAC company business plan.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

Gan plans to change the traditional approach of repair and maintenance of HVAC systems by integrating the system with a Building Information Model and automatic fault detection system. The aim is to automate the entire system so as to decrease the lag time needed for maintenance and repair of HVAC systems.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Gan hired professional experts from various fields to help him craft a detailed map of his HVAC company business plan. The financial experts have forecasted following costs for expenses, assets, investment group for business , and loans for the Start-up.

The detailed start-up requirements, start-up funding, start-up expenses, total assets, total funding required, total liabilities, total planned investment, total capital and liabilities as forecasted by experts, is given below:

Services for customers

Gan Engineering Services will be a licensed and insured HVAC retailing, servicing and maintenance company which will offer a wide range of services revolving around the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. Our HVAC business model describes in detail the services we will provide after starting HVAC business. We will mainly provide four types of services:

• Installation: We will offer complete as well as partial HVAC system installation including the installation of heating and cooling system, refrigeration system, air venting system, air conditioning system, furnaces and humidifier, and duct system. Our customers can purchase these HVAC systems and their components either from the manufacturing company or at retail price from us.
• Inspection: HVAC systems require regular inspection at least two times a year so as to work properly. We will offer inspection services to the HVAC systems installed by us or from other service providers. This inspection is extremely important to identify and locate any fault in the system, which if left ignored, can lead to severe and costlier problems.
• Maintenance: HVAC systems require maintenance at least once a year so as to work at their full capacity and efficiency. We will provide maintenance and cleaning services to ensure that HVAC systems and all related components keep working properly.
• Repair: We will offer all sort of repairing services in case the HVAC systems or any of their related components develop a fault. To ensure that your faults are identified, reported and removed in their early stages, we will implement an innovative technology while installing HVAC systems. The technology will comprise of a Building Information Model integrated with an automatic fault detection system that will notify us, the service providers, whenever a fault is detected. Hence, the fault will be removed rapidly in their early stages while they are easier and cheaper to treat.

Marketing Analysis of HVAC business

Excellent work.

excellent work, competent advice. Alex is very friendly, great communication. 100% I recommend CGS capital. Thank you so much for your hard work!

If you are developing a HVAC business plan for your business then make sure to pay special attention to its marketing analysis and also take help from this HVAC business plan template. The most important component of an effective HVAC business plan sample is its marketing analysis that’s why Gan hired the services of marketing experts to help him develop a good business plan for HVAC company. The success of a startup totally depends upon how it markets itself to target its specific customer groups. A successful marketing strategy can only be developed after knowing the target audience and potential customers. Our marketing experts carried out an extensive research to identify our target customers and develop an effective HVAC marketing plan to attract them. There are four main steps to carry out an accurate marketing analysis which are to identify the current market trends of the HVAC company business plan, identify your target audience and potential customers, set out the business targets to achieve, and finally set the prices of your products or services.

5.1 Market Trends

The HVAC market was worth more than $81 billion as of 2015. The market is expected to grow by 5.5 percent each year through 2020, making its worth up to $130.7 billion by that time. This increase in the market is credited to many factors, mainly the increasing number of commercial businesses and large-scale residential settlements. The increasing population and economic activity have resulted in an increase in the number of large-scale built assets. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is an integral part of all built assets and their market also increased with the increasing number of built assets. Considering their importance, HVAC system must be properly, installed, maintained, and repaired, thereby creating the demand for businesses like us. In short, the market for this industry has a lot of potential, provided that you plan your business successfully.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Our target customers include local businesses, restaurants and hotels, private and government institutions, residential buildings, shopping malls, supermarkets, and high-rise commercial buildings located within the New York City. We are strategically located in the Central Business District of the city so as to target as many businesses as possible as well as the residential settlements located at a 15 minutes’ drive from us. Our marketing experts have identified following type of target audience which can become the future customers of our services.

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Residential Buildings:

There are hundreds of large-scale residential buildings, apartments, and condos located in the residential zone of the city. Most of these buildings have centralized HVAC systems installed in them which frequently require maintenance and repair services due to their excessive use. Many newly constructed buildings also require HVAC system installation services. We will target this customer group by providing our high-quality and affordable installation, inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and repair services.

5.2.2 Institutional Buildings:

We will also target hundreds of schools, colleges, offices, hospitals, municipal authorities and other institutions located in the New York City. These institutional buildings will not require our installation services since nearly all of them have proper HVAC systems installed in them. But most of these buildings have decades-old HVAC systems, which frequently need repair and maintenance services.

5.2.3 Commercial Buildings:

There are thousands of commercial buildings in the Central Business District of the city housing local, national and international businesses. These buildings have complex HVAC systems installed in them which frequently require inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and repair services due to their excessive use. This target group will contribute a major part of the revenue to our business and hence will dictate our marketing strategy.

5.2.4 Hotels & Restaurants:

Lastly, we will target the hotels, food courts, and restaurants located in the city. This target group, due to its particular nature of the business, has different and more stringent HVAC needs as compared to the other groups mentioned above. Hotels and restaurants have more refrigeration needs so as to store the food products as compared to that provided by normal HVAC systems. We will ensure that this target group meets its refrigeration needs and its entire HVAC system keeps working in a perfect condition by our high-quality services. The detailed market analysis of our potential customers is given in the following table:

5.2 Business Target

We aim to revolutionize the HVAC industry by our BIM-integrated automatic fault detection system. Our target is to become the best HVAC service provider of the New York City within the next 3 years of our launch.

5.3 Product Pricing

Setting the prices of products or services is the most challenging part of any startup because it is very difficult to achieve the MARR (minimum attractive rate of return) while also attracting the customers towards it. Considering all restraints and aspects, we have priced all of our services in the similar ranges as of our competitors. The installation cost will increase 10% more than the normal installation price in the market, if you wish to install automatic fault detection system since it requires a lot of expertise.

After identifying the market trends, the market demand, and the potential customers of the startup, the next step is to develop an ingenious sales strategy to attract those customers toward us. Like marketing analysis, sales strategy is also an important component of an effective business plan for HVAC company so make sure to plan it before starting an HVAC business. Gan carried out an extensive research about various marketing strategies of HVAC business management before developing one for his company. The sales strategy developed by Gan and our experts discusses the competition in the current market, the aspects which will give us an advantage over other competitors, the methods to attract people towards us, and finally the sales pattern of our company in the next three years.

6.1 Competitive Analysis:

We have a really tough competition ahead of us because there are hundreds of other established HVAC companies in the New York City. But we believe that we will surpass all of our competitors in no time due to various reasons. The first and the most important of which is our innovative idea of BIM-integrated automatic fault detection system. Although fault detection systems are already in use in large complexes yet these systems mostly notify a fault in the form of alarm. After a fault is reported by alarm, Facility Managers spend a lot of time in finding the exact location of a fault or the component which has developed it. The process is often very time-consuming resulting in a lot of inconvenience for the management as well as the end-users. Often small faults lead to bigger and costlier problems due to the delay caused by their treatment. Our BIM-integrated automatic fault detection system links the system with a Building Information Model, which directly notifies us (the service provider) whenever a fault develops along with its location. So, no time is wasted in finding the location of the fault and it gets treated as soon as possible, saving you a lot of inconvenience and money as well. This system can be easily installed in new as well as the existing HVAC systems. We believe that if marketed properly this concept can revolutionize the HVAC industry and give us unparalleled superiority in this business. Our second competitive advantage will be our exceptional customer service. We will make sure that our technicians provide highest-quality work, at least possible time and in the best possible way. We will make sure that your property does not get damaged during our cleaning, maintenance, and repair work.

6.2 Sales Strategy

We will introduce our startup to our target customers and stakeholders by sending brochures and introductory letters about us. We will carry out a large-scale social media campaign for our advertisement. We will also offer 10% discount on our services so as to increase sales during the first three months of our launch.

6.3 Sales Forecast

Considering the market demand, our innovative concept and the quality of our services, our sales pattern is expected to increase with years. By analyzing our market segmentation strategy, our experts have forecasted the following sales on a yearly basis which are summarized in the column charts.

The detailed information about sales forecast, total unit sales, total sales is given in the following table:

Personnel plan

Gan hired experts from various fields so as to help him understand how to start a heating and air conditioning business. He acquired the services of a Human Resource Manager to develop the following personnel plan for the staff needed for the company along with their average salaries.

7.1 Company Staff

Gan will act as the Chief Operating Officer of the company. The company will initially hire following people:

• 1 Front Desk Officer to act as a receptionist in the company head office
• 2 Administrators / Accountants to maintain financial records
• 3 Engineers for leading and directing the team of HVAC technicians
• 4 Sales and Marketing Executives responsible for discovering new ventures
• 10 HVAC Technicians for installing, cleaning, inspecting, maintaining and repairing HVAC systems and related components
• 2 Drivers to facilitate the movement of team and equipment throughout the city

To ensure the best quality service, all employees will be selected through vigorous testing and will be trained for a month before starting their jobs.

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

The following table shows the forecasted data about employees and their salaries for next three years.

Financial Plan

Gan hired financial experts to help him understand how much does it cost to start an HVAC business . The financial plan created by them outlines the financial development of the company over the next three years. The company will be solely financed by Gan and he will also control the direction of business to make sure that it is expanding at the forecasted rate. No equity funding or outside loan will be required unless the company expands faster than forecasted.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The company’s financial projections are forecasted on the basis of following assumptions.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

The following graph shows the company’s Brake-even Analysis.

The following table shows the company’s Brake-even Analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following charts show the company’s expected Profit and Loss situation on the monthly and yearly basis.

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

The following table shows detailed information about profit business plan and loss, and total cost of sales.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The following column diagram shows the projected cash flow.

The following table shows detailed data about pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash from operations, subtotal cash received, sub-total spent on operations, subtotal cash spent.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following projected balance sheet shows data about total current assets, total long-term assets, total assets, subtotal current liabilities, total liabilities, total capital, total liabilities and capital.

8.6 Business Ratios

The following table shows data about business ratios, ratio analysis, total assets, net worth.

Download HVAC Business Plan Sample in pdf

Professional writers OGS capital specialized also on themes: interior design business plan , architecture firm business plan , construction management business plan , engineering consulting business plan and etc.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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How to Write an HVAC Business Plan: Free Template for 2023

Plan for Success with Your New HVAC Business

An HVAC business plan is a document outlining your company goals, services, revenue projections, marketing strategy, customer profiles, expected costs, & more.

• Outlining where your company exists in the present day and where you plan to be in five years allows you to create a benchmark and goals to work towards.
• Not only does this help you grow your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) business more effectively, but it allows you to share your business plan with loan providers or investors if there comes a time that you’re looking for additional funding or resources.

Enter your email below to download a free HVAC business plan PDF sample

What to Include in an HVAC Business Plan

Although no two business plans will ever be identical, certain elements should be considered. If a particular section doesn’t align with your company goals, there isn’t a reason for you to force it in.

Similarly, if the example templates you use don’t include a section you’d like to feel, know that you have complete control over what goes in your business plan — it’s your HVAC company, after all! To help you get started drafting a comprehensive business plan, consider including the following sections:

1. Executive Summary

First and foremost, you’ll want to include an executive summary at the beginning of your HVAC business plan.

This quick summary gives a high-level overview of your company’s history, mission statement, executive team, employees, location(s), financial and growth goals, and other basic details that describe who your company is — and what makes it stand out from similar companies in the same market.

2. Company Description

Think about your HVAC company and why you started it in the first place. What was your reason for starting it — what problems were you trying to solve for your customers?

Are you hoping to provide the most affordable air conditioning services? Or are you looking to provide the highest quality heating service with unmatched customer service?

This section outlines what problems you aim to solve for your customers, the training and certifications held by your team, and what differentiates you from the competition.

Use this section as a way to highlight all the reasons why your company is the best heating and air conditioning company serving your local market.

3. Market Analysis

Breaking into any market is tough, but there are a lot of other HVAC companies out there. Do you know how your company stacks up against them? Take the time to perform a market analysis to better understand your competitor’s strengths and weaknesses.

Do they have a limited-service menu, or do they offer a wide range of services covering residential and commercial markets?

By mapping out gaps in their business plans or learning where they are succeeding, you can better navigate the market and determine where your HVAC company can outshine the others.

4. Organizational Structure

No matter how big or small your company is, there is some form of organizational structure. Outline the company structure and list who is in charge of the different business sectors with the corresponding leadership team and employees below them.

Although this section might change as you add or remove members of the team, it’s an important section to include if you plan to get additional funding or investment.

5. HVAC Services

Is there a particular portion of the market your company plans to capitalize on? Or will your HVAC company offer air conditioning, heating, and ventilation services to both residential and commercial properties?

Do you work on HVAC rooftop units? Will you also dabble in water heater repair and whole-home dehumidifier installation? Does your HVAC company provide products like smart thermostats?

If particular types of jobs have high-profit margins, you may want to emphasize these. If there is a service where you lose money, it might be worth cutting it from your service offerings once you’re bringing enough customers in.

Define your service offerings and outline how they will benefit your target audience.

6. Marketing Plan

Although your HVAC marketing strategy may change throughout the year depending on how you track your annual goals, you should include a high-level overview of your strategy in this section.

What is your plan to drive new business? Once a lead converts into a sale, what is your plan to keep them as a recurring customer? How do you plan to stay top of mind with your existing customers? Are there particular channels where you plan to advertise your business?

Outline all of the questions above and include information about if you plan to invest in digital marketing, such as search engine optimization, social media promotions, and HVAC Facebook ads, or if you plan to rely on direct mailers, radio ads, and television commercials.

There is no right or wrong answer to the marketing strategies you want to use — but this is where the market analysis mentioned above can help! You want to ensure you’re on all channels your competitors are and increase your visibility in areas they might be missing.

7. Funding Request

Depending on your HVAC company’s growth goals, you may need additional funding to help you achieve them.

If your purpose for the business plan is to provide a company background to investors, use this section to explain what funding you’re requesting and how the funds will be dispersed and used — allowing them to see exactly where every dollar they’re providing is going.

8. Financial Projections

At the end of the day, a company’s success comes down to its profits and revenue. In the financial projections section, you should clearly demonstrate where your HVAC company stands currently.

To do this, include bank statements, income statements, cash flow statements, and loan information from the last few years to help show your company’s profitability. If your HVAC company is new, you may not have much to include in this section.

Along with showing where your company is now, you want to include a financial projection for where you expect the company to be financially five years from now.

Use this projection to create annual goals you and your team can work towards. When applicable, breaking up the annual goals into quarterly helps you track them more closely (and successfully).

9. Appendix

To conclude your HVAC business plan, you will add any supporting materials to the appendix. This may include resumes for your management teams, licenses, certifications, bank statements, or other supporting documents that help paint your company’s picture.

Example of an HVAC Business Plan PDF

You can open or download our free HVAC business plan PDF below:

You can get an editable version emailed to you by entering your email below:

Does My HVAC Company Need a Business Plan?

Yes, while not mandatory to venture into the HVAC trade , it is recommended that any startup company create a business plan. Starting a new HVAC business can be a fun venture, but that doesn’t mean you won’t deal with countless headaches or challenges along the way. Creating a solid business plan equips you with a strategy for your business from day one.

Along with keeping you on track and pacing towards your growth goals, a business plan becomes a valuable tool that your team can use to show yourself, employees, and investors that you are running a strategic HVAC company with high profit margins . An HVAC business plan provides you with the following benefits:

Business Growth

As a business owner, your top priority is running a successful HVAC company that makes good money . But to do that, you need to put in some work upfront — including putting together a strategic business plan laying out your business goals.

While your goals may change over time, and that’s perfectly alright, it’s important that you give yourself and your team goals to work towards to help you achieve the growth you crave.

You’ll accelerate your growth by setting your goals and having a clear timeframe.

The visibility makes how you’re tracking towards goals more apparent and will light a fire behind you if you realize you aren’t pacing to reach this quarter’s set benchmark. Setting aside time to create your HVAC business plan will provide you with the roadmap for success.

Where do you see your HVAC company in five years? In 10 years? Those goals might not be financially possible, depending on how much revenue you bring in. In certain instances, you may consider looking for outside funding to help you grow your new business venture.

A solid business plan provides you with a document you can present to loan providers and potential investors to clearly state where you stand, where you expect to go, and your plan for getting there.

Without all these details clearly laid out, no investor will feel comfortable betting on you or your HVAC company.

Business Decisions

Being the boss is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. It also means that when there are tough decisions to be made that impact the entire company, you’re the one who has the final say.

To make sound decisions, you need to have complete visibility into the health of your HVAC company and a thorough understanding of how you’re pacing against your growth and profit goals.

A business plan allows you to have a pulse on your HVAC company and use the provided information and data to make informed decisions that benefit your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of writing a business plan for an hvac company.

The benefits of a business plan for HVAC contractors include growth planning, loan requests, and business decision-making.

What is the best way to start writing an HVAC business plan? 

The best way to start writing your HVAC business plan is by outlining the structure. This includes writing introductory content that covers your services, your target audience, and why potential customers should choose your business. After the introduction, focus on detailing your market analysis, operational strategy, financial projections, and other details vital for your business’s success.

Written by George Leon

George Leon is a Managing Partner at Scalebloom. He used to be a partner at a painting company in Charlotte NC. George loves to help business owners scale their business with modern marketing strategies and branding.

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HVAC Business Plan Template & Examples (2023 Guide)

September 25, 2020 Paul Tyrrell

Table of Contents

Why is it necessary to have a HVAC business plan?

One of the biggest challenges in setting up a business plan is making sure you’ve set reasonable expectations and goals. For any commercial HVAC business, you want to set direction and move towards goals to ensure you are moving the needle for your HVAC business.

The key to sticking to your goals is FOCUS.

To begin your business plan for your HVAC company you can start with simple steps like creating a business canvas to capture ideas. This starts by defining who your target market is and leads in to how you determine your marketing and sales strategies all the way through to how you perceive customer success (how well you are rated/reviewed etc). A key aspect of success is being able to grow in sophistication without getting buried in the technical operations day to day. You need to be able to look at the different elements of your business, determine the performance against targets so you know if you are on track or heading off a cliff.

For your heating and air conditioning business you want to construct a template for your business so you can track growth, boost productivity and your profit margins consistently month on month or year on year. Running a HVAC business has many challenges and unfortunately not all businesses become successful. In fact, 50% of businesses fail within the first twelve months. As in any industry, you need to be competitive, have high quality of work and superior customer service and these will help your business grow both in reputation and profitability. Without a defined plan you may find your business is remaining stagnant or even worse, going backwards.

The above is a business planning tool used in Silicon Valley by start-up companies.  It allows you to capture all of the key information on a single page. It’s called the Business Model Canvas.

This canvas template gets you to ask the right questions and can be a powerful tool for growth.  Focus on customer service, marketing plans, financial profit and loss statements and operations for your business helps you track the right metrics towards profitability. We are going to run through the Business Model Canvas and help you start a new business, a second business or even improve your current business.

Essentially, this process helps you create a North Star for your business, it is highly visible to the whole team, its a clear goal you are all working towards.  A North Star is a single metric that gives you the best indicator of success.

To create your business plan you need to do the research…

• Know your audience?
• Have the right information to add to your business plan
• Consider who else is interested in your business plan
• Be precise in what you put in to your plan and just as important what you leave out

Question:  What would it mean if your business was profitable and generating enough money to achieve your goals?

• more time with family
• a business that runs itself so you can focus on the next thing

9 Factors to Include in Your HVAC Plan

The Business Model Canvas as a template can give your HVAC business some structure and clarity. This model is typically broken into nine segments that we will dive into.

1. Customer Segments

Who are your customers? Do you know what your customer avatar is? Can you deliver superior customer service for your targeted avatar? You want to document who you are going after and what problem you are solving for them. By knowing who your audience is and their problem you will know how to target and access them through the development of an effective HVAC marketing plan.

You could be targeting residential customers in your local geographic area or commercial businesses doing larger projects, universities, hospitals, restaurants and more. It is vital to have a clear picture of who you are going after and what sort of services are going to be best suited and how to price them.  This also helps you determine what products / suppliers / vendors you want to develop relationships with.

Next you need to know the channel or platform to reach these customers (Tip 3).  You want to find the place where your customers expect to find you, ready about your services and see your reviews.  After acquiring the customer/job the challenge to create a profit (after the cost of acquiring a customer is covered). Once you have this process correct and you are getting leads and making a profit from the work, all you need to do is repeat.

2. Value Propositions

Now you know who your customer is, think about what they want and how to interact with them? This can be as simple as saying you are always on time or always extremely professional or always low cost. Getting a clear proposition for your sales strategy can help your HVAC company gain those potential customers you have just found.

You’ll know you’ve got your value proposition correct when your quotes are coming through and being accepted with a high rate – such as 50% success rate.  This comes down to interacting with customers and listening to their wants and needs during the quoting process. It is also inclusive of the goal you have in mind for your HVAC company.

3. Channels

What platforms or channels are your customers using when they are looking for services? Why you may be more successful in certain channels and not others? What channel you chose will determine how you interact with your customers. Doing a bit of research is important in knowing what channels are successful for HVAC businesses and what isn’t as effective.  A test, fail and learn attitude is important to ensure you dont put all your eggs in one basket and it gives you options to tap leads when you need to.

When thinking about your business plan, think about different ways you can pull in potential customers. This could be a marketing strategy or HVAC sales techniques like emails, flyers or even word of mouth but it could also be digital platforms like ads on social media or internet channels.

For your HVAC company you might find that a particular channel will be more successful than another might be. When you can determine which platforms work for you, you will be able to fit your team’s business plan into your marketing strategy.

Social Media channels

Starting a HVAC business plan means first bringing in the jobs and potential clients. You may also find with a bit of research that your customers may shift channels over time. COVID19 for example, has been a disruption that has changed where you will normally find your customers. You haven’t lost those clients, they have just moved to different platforms.

3.1 Marketing

Marketing can come into play with channels when you consider options like SEM, SEO, word of mouth and printed media. SEO is Search Engine Optimisation and this means that your results will be ranked based on keywords in search engine results. SEO needs an amazing website that is full of content that is specific to your industry and where customers expect to find you to solve the problems they are having.

SEM or Search Engine Marketing is based on paid advertising on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or Google. There are options to suit every HVAC business plan and every unique HVAC customer base.

You want your HVAC marketing plan to be a sales strategy that is inclusive to your customer base and adjustable as your business grows and changes.

4. Customer Relations

When you talk about customer relations in your HVAC business plan, you are talking about how you deal with your customers. From the moment they contact you (through whatever medium best suits them phone, online form, facebook messenger etc) to getting a quote to the moment they write the cheque and give you a glowing review about your excellent service!  Each of these interactions are important and should be scrutinised regularly or surveyed with customers to find where they can be improved for the customer.

Are you approachable if the customer has questions? Can they contact someone if there is an issue? Step into your customer’s shoes and take a critical look at your own HVAC company to see if your HVAC services match both your market research and your customer’s needs.  You wont do well if you are pitching product & services at a Commercial customer but attracting residential customers.

Both before and after you have completed your customer’s work you want to ensure you can keep a good relationship for those repeat jobs and customer reviews. Customer relations can make or break a business based on your professionalism and efficiency. If you have technicians on the site who are rude while servicing the heating or air conditioning unit it will always look bad – check out our Post in Customer Service Tips in 2020 for HVAC .

The same goes for when the customer rings the office to complain and they get an answering machine or a rude receptionist who isn’t interested in helping. The way you handle your customers will contribute to your ability to get more more from them or completely obliterate your ability to attract more customers in the future.

Customer and technician

5. Revenue Streams

Having good HVAC accounting practices in your HVAC company and a healthy profit margin will allow your business to grow. If you have bad revenue streams that are not high yielding you might find your business will stagnant or even move backwards. For growth and expansion to occur in any HVAC business, you need to have set goals that outline the way in which you intend to price your jobs and schedule enough work to be profitable. It may be a challenge to work out and document but with the right set up, you will find your business will boom.

When you think about how to start a HVAC business, it can be easy to get stuck in all these technical details without making sure you are delivering to your customers. If you focus too much on the customer side of things and don’t charge enough in your quotes, you will lose money and wonder why you aren’t profitable.  This is not how you start a successful business and it can be a slippery slope on the path to failure if close monitoring and changes are not made.

You need to be thinking smart when planning your revenue and tracking your income sources. A great book to read is Profit First by Mike Michalowicz, it helps get your head right for starting your business.

6. Key Activities

Are you happy with the level of service you are providing to customers?  What activities do your team undertake to deliver quality customer service? Do you have a published duty of care, a minimum set of standards for customer engagements.  Does the team have a HVAC maintenance checklist in the field to ensure they can delivery quality fast?  Do you get good and bad feedback from customers, are you trying to work out where the weakest links are and put in place strategies to remedy.  This is a constant battle and an area you need to regularly perform a litmus test on.  Bad habits left too long become entrenched and can be difficult to change.

When thinking about your key activities as a HVAC business, you need to understand the services your customers expect you to provide and balance how they can be profitable. In this step you are bringing in your findings and learnings from the previous steps to give you a sound understanding of the activities of your business. Ask yourself, what services do your HVAC team provide? How can you divide these services up into profitable or not profitable items? Think about your customer’s problem and the steps needed to complete their job. How can you deliver a satisfactory and suitable outcome for the service they’re looking for? They don’t want to over pay and you don’t want to lose money on the job. You need to consider your profit structure for each of your key activities. Once you have mapped out each step you can see where you might need improvement and where you are already doing great.

Finding those money pits are important to rectifying that problem. This may be that you need one technician rather than two to go out to a service call for an air conditioning unit or loading work in a specific area of town to reduce travel between jobs and keeping travel expenses down and being able to fit more jobs in to a single day.

Keeping track

Keep track of your customer database and your processes such as invoicing, purchase orders, quoting and office to get a better look at where your time and money is being spent.

Divide your activities into sections such as:

• Job booking in the office
• Job completion in the field
• What does the technician need to do once on site?
• How does a technician greet a customer?
• What safety documentation do they need to complete?
• Do they have a checklist of jobs to complete of the servicing steps needed?
• What reporting needs to be generated or supplied to the customer?

By breaking your process and key activities down into segments, you can review each area regularly to look for improvements.

Simple Job workflow

7. Key Resources

Regardless of whether you have a business that has been running for a year or one for 100 years – staff management is an unavoidable activity.  The pain of not having the right team can be a difficult problem for any HVAC business to overcome. Consider if your hiring process is up to scratch as you may need to take a look at who and how you hire. Are you looking in the right places for your new hires? Do they have the right level of experience? A good rule to stick by is “be slow to hire and quick to fire”. You don’t want to rush into hiring the wrong person and end up in a worse position than if you only waited for the right person. You really need to be impersonal when it comes to hiring and firing. You want to create a criteria for your dream team and make sure that each new hire fits the standard you want to maintain.

Next, is the team provided enough training to keep their skills current? Do you have enough systems in place to look after your team – safety etc?  Once you have gotten yourself a killer team for both office and field, your HVAC company will really have the chance to grow and become successful. You need to foster a continuous open communication between the field and office so any minor process issues can be resolved quickly and not impact the flow and pace of your growth.  Leverage the mindset of bettering your business’s collective skills.

7.1 Some processes to think about:

What processes have you got in place for dispatching technicians in the field ? Your office is a key part of your business and it needs to be able to communicate with the field with ease. You don’t want a slow system that will reduce productivity because you are waiting on a technician to get some paperwork back to the office. Do you have an efficient system for creating schedules and managing completed activities that need follow-up?

Consider whether you have an efficient inventory management system . You don’t want to waste time chasing part numbers and looking in the back of your vans to try and find them. You need to have the resources on hand to be able to find what you need, when you need it.

Ideally, you want a software that can create automatic links between your business to create a united and productive unit.

All this will undoubtedly have a lot of trial and error, but with a little practice you will find that your HVAC team has the right resources needed to succeed. If you find that your team is disorganised or lacking in skills, your whole business can suffer. You don’t want to wait until you have started that downwards spiral before you do something to change it.

8. Key Partnerships

Developing key partnerships can be very empowering to your HVAC company. You may have a services skill set and want to build up an installation side of a business and you know someone who’s really good at installation. You can take on the services side and they can take on the installation side. You may want to partner with someone who’s great at Electrical and you do the Plumbing. You might be great for BMS systems and they might be great at commercial construction. In having HVAC partnerships it can be incredibly powerful for all parties.

The downside is they can be a drain on your time and when things get sloppy with one partner this can have a detrimental impact on your business.  It is really important when mapping out partnerships that you jointly map out the workflow between the various teams and ensure the handovers are smooth for both the teams and the customer. You will need to document the boundaries and operating procedures prior to starting any partnership.

You should also have the same attitude with starting a new partnership as you should with hiring a new team member. You should be slow and reluctant to enter a partnership but quick to exit one of it turns sour or isn’t working for you.

Partnerships can be a massive accelerator but they are something to be approached with extreme caution and regard for your own business and reputation.

9. Cost Structures

Do you know what your cost structures look like in your HVAC business? Do you have a list of your core costs? Your cost structures ideally should give you a clear financial view; profit and loss statement, balance sheet and a cash flow forecast.

Your profit and loss statement is summary of all your expenses and income and usually calculated on a monthly basis. By having this, it can contribute to seeing those parts of your business that might be using up too much expense and reveal those parts that might need a little more love.

money and paper flying around

You can set up a balance sheet where you have all of your various accounts and buckets of money set up to see where everything is going. Tools such as Xero’s balance sheets can be a real time saver and a good example as to what your projections and cash flow should be looking like.

A cash flow forecast is essential as you don’t want to get too off track and realise suddenly that your HVAC business has run out of available funds. You want to be able to track how your business is going and how profitable you are. You don’t want to wait until the train has run you off the tracks, you want to know that the train is coming a good few weeks before so you can take action.

Having bad cash flow is probably the biggest killer of businesses, starting out a cash flow forecast can dramatically improve the management of your risk.

Key summary

In the HVAC field industry there are numerous challenges that can make running a successful business even harder. But you don’t have to lose hope. The top things you can include in your HVAC plan to help you reach success are: 

• Know your customers
• Value propositions with a clear strategy 
• Find the right channels to market your business
• Build long lasting relationships with your customers
• Balance your revenue streams
• Map out your business strategies 
• Manage your team efficiently
• Develop partnerships with key companies 
• Create a cost structure 

With these steps you can give your business the best chance to succeed in a competitive market. 

One of the best ways you can effectively plan your business is through using your own experience. The most successful businesses always have had their own personal experience to help them guide the do’s and don’ts of the industry. If you don’t have any of your own experience in being a technician, running job sites, or performing maintenance, refer to someone who has. Gaining perspective is always valuable and can help you better understand the needs of your industry. 

Why You Should Consider End-To-End Job Management Software When Building Your HVAC Business Plan

When thinking of starting a HVAC business, there is a lot that you need to consider especially when you look at the large rate of failure for many businesses.

Field service management software like FieldInsight can help incorporate all the moving parts of your business into one place. You will have less stress on your shoulders when you have your business running as a unit with your office and field connected.

Mapping out your business canvas can be less of a headache when you have automated software like FieldInsight. Imagine what your business would be able to achieve with an end-to-end job management software like FieldInsight.

What You Should Do Now

• Book a Demo . You’ll be in touch with an automation expert who has worked in this space for over 5 years, and knows the optimal workflow to address your needs.
• If you’d like access to free articles about managing HVAC workflows, go to our blog .
• If you know someone who’d enjoy reading this page, share it with them via email, Linkedin, Twitter, or Facebook.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting an HVAC Business Plan for Startups

Starting an HVAC business demands technical know-how and a robust HVAC business plan. This plan is crucial for navigating the complexities of HVAC profitability analysis , financial forecasting, promotional tactics, and operational outlines. Through this, the HVAC business plan becomes a roadmap leading to success.

Let’s walk you through the components of a comprehensive HVAC business plan. 

Importance of a Robust HVAC Business Plan

A robust plan is the cornerstone to success in business. Crafting a well-structured plan turns aspirations into achievements in the competitive HVAC industry. It’s the foundation on which your start is built. 

The Role Of The Plan In Ensuring Long-Lasting Success

Here’s how an HVAC business plan template ensures long-term success in business. 

• Acts as a strategic roadmap highlighting business goals, objectives, and actionable steps to reach them.
• HVAC financial projections estimate startup costs, operating expenses, revenue projections, and potential profitability. 
• Market analysis delves into customer needs, trends, and the competitive landscape.
• Unravels operational intricacies such as equipment procurement, inventory management, and service delivery processes. 
• Identifies, assesses, and mitigates against potential risks.
• Outlines an approach to building a strong brand identity and reaching the target audience.
• Provides a roadmap for resource allocation.
• Serves as a living guide to be adapted as your startup grows and evolves.
• Showcases professionalism and credibility when seeking funding or partnerships. 

When thinking about writing a plan for your business, the last thing you’re likely to think about is the cover page. Yet, it’s the most important despite being the last one to create. The cover page gives an overview of key information regarding your business. 

Let’s see the contents of a mechanical contractor business plan cover page. 

Don’t miss to add your logo on the cover page. Because it enhances the page’s visual appeal and brand identity. A logo on the cover page of an air conditioning service business plan PDF is for more than just aesthetics. It’s an essential task that contributes to giving your document a professional appeal.

Business Name

A name on the cover page conveys immediate identity and context. This is positioned prominently at the top to communicate the essence of your startup at a glance. The name guides readers to relate the content presented to your brand.

Contact Information

Readers get a direct avenue for engagement and inquiry when you add contact information to the cover page of an HVAC business plan. Usually placed below the logo, the information offers potential investors, stakeholders, and partners immediate means to connect with you. 

The contact information may include:

• Phone number
• Email address
• Social media channels 

Business Address

Your business address on the cover page is a crucial point of reference.

The name is placed near your contact address to establish a tangible connection between your strategic vision and physical presence. 

Key Stakeholders and Their Roles

Highlighting critical individuals driving the success of your venture is a great idea. To immediately convey a sense of collaborative leadership. The transparent approach gives credibility to the vision and strategies of your business.

Executive Summary

The section in an HVAC business plan example summarizes your objectives and how you plan to meet them. An executive summary presents facts and entices readers to finish reading the rest of the document. 

Here are the contents of an executive summary. 

Company History

A sample business plan for HVAC company should have the history of your venture in the executive summary. This serves as an anchor and gives potential investors and partners valuable insights into your journey. Company history shows resilience and trajectory. This establishes credibility and commitment to continuous improvement. 

Mission Statement

An HVAC company mission statement communicates the fundamental purpose and guiding principles underpinning its existence. Additionally, it serves as a beacon aligning stakeholders’ understanding of core values and long-term objectives. 

Business Goals and Objectives

Cooling system business objectives and goals succinctly highlight your business’  strategic direction. Their presence immediately allows readers to understand intended outcomes, key milestones, and strategies to achieve them. 

Competitive Advantages

Incorporating competitive advantages in the executive summary highlights unique strengths that position your business ahead of competitors. This offers immediate insight into your distinct attributes, resources, or capabilities that set you apart.

Business Overview

The business overview section in a sample HVAC business plan PDF highlights the snapshot of your business. Readers learn about your company’s fundamental aspects and overall structure. A business overview is an introduction to your business and sets the tone for the rest of the plan. 

Key elements in a business overview include:

Company Summary

It’s a succinct and focused section offering a brief overview of your company’s essential details. The summary includes key aspects of your business for readers to get a clear understanding of what it’s about. 

Types of HVAC Services Offered

Readers find your HVAC service offerings in this section. Besides, investors, partners, and stakeholders can quickly grasp the nature and scope of your business. These can make informed decisions and align their expectations with your company’s capabilities. 

Target audience

Establishing who your company seeks to serve is an essential aspect of the business overview. The information is valuable for potential investors, partners, and stakeholders. It guides them to assess the viability and potential success of your business. 

Other benefits include:

• Demonstrates understanding of the market and its dynamics
• Encourages strategic focus 
• Helps investors evaluate whether your business aligns with their goals 
• Readers can estimate the potential market size 

Frequency of Services

Portraying service frequency allows readers to estimate your potential income. Frequency services are a key driver of revenue growth. Focus on service frequency highlights commitment to prioritizing long-term benefits for clients. 

Company Ownership

Understanding ownership options is crucial when thinking of starting an HVAC business. The HVAC business model forms the bedrock upon which your operations will be built. Choice of ownership impacts how your business operates and evolves. 

Business Entity Type 

Running a successful business requires choosing an appropriate entity type from the four main options. Each has advantages that need consideration before choosing one for your business. 

Let’s look at options for HVAC business ownership structures.

• Partnership – This is owned and controlled by two or more partners, profits and losses are shared among the partners. 
• C Corporation – The business raises money through selling stock. Owners benefit from tax deductions not available for other entities. 
• Sole proprietorship – This business has no distinction between its owner and the company itself. There’s no need to worry about paperwork and it requires little capital. 
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Owners have a wider pool of resources and financing opportunities since the business is registered in the state. It’s easier for the company to grow and expand. 

Start-Up Summary

The plan should have an overview of startup costs, long-term assets, and short-term assets. Let’s highlight these below. 

Start-Up Costs

You need to budget for various costs to start an HVAC business. Here’s a breakdown of the essential costs. 

• Equipment and tools
• Service vehicles 
• Inventory and parts
• Office space and furnishings
• Marketing and advertising
• Licenses and permits
• Software and administrative tools
• HVAC technician training and management
• Contingency fund 

Keep in mind that the costs vary by location, location, model, and scale of operation. Understanding these costs allows budgeting to set up your business. 

Long-Term Assets

The success of your business relies heavily on your long-term assets. These durable and high-value items are useful in carrying out business operations over extended periods. Some long-term assets include:

• Trucks and vans
• Larger HVAC equipment
• Workshop equipment
• Specialized tools
• Storage facilities

Short-Term Assets

Your business needs essential resources for daily use. These are usually consumed or converted into cash in a short period. 

Some of the short-term assets for an HVAC business include:

• Tools and equipment
• HVAC equipment Inventory and supplies
• Safety gear
• Consumables
• Vehicle maintenance 
• Marketing materials
• Technology and software subscription
• Training and development
• Office supplies  

HVAC Services

There’s a range of services your business can provide to clients. The rule of thumb is to offer services tailored to meet the needs of your potential customers. 

Let’s see how you can determine the services to offer. 

Services In Alignment With Equipment and Local Demand

Providing services that align with equipment and local demand offers effective and efficient solutions. These resonate with the specific needs of your target area. Tailoring your services to advanced technology and the local area ensures optimal performance of HVAC systems and energy efficiency.

Seasonality and Frequency of Services

Seasons and frequency determine the efficiency and reliability of HVAC systems. Changes in seasons impact the demand for services. Extreme temperatures lead to a peak in demand. Routine maintenance in transitional seasons ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency. 

Emergency Services

Highlighting offering emergency services portrays commitment to providing unparalleled customer service. Readiness to address urgent HVAC issues round the clock demonstrates dedication to client satisfaction. 

The service differentiates you in a competitive market and positions your business as a reliable partner in times of need. 

Market Analysis Summary

This concise overview offers a comprehensive understanding of the HVAC industry . The summary informs readers of the market potential and business position in it. 

Components of the market analysis summary include. 

Ideal Client Profile

Your HVAC business plan should highlight the features of your ideal client. Doing this allows you to define the perfect fit for your services. An ideal client profile guides strategic decision-making, marketing efforts, and resource allocation. All your activities will meet particular needs, preferences, and pain points. 

Local Target Market Size

Highlighting the air conditioning service target audience offers data-driven insights into understanding growth opportunities. This guides decision-making, effective resource allocation, and target marketing efforts. The approach also allows for a realistic heating service market segmentation.   

Local Competition Analysis

A heating business competitive analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape. The analysis identifies competitors, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and market positions. 

Scrutinizing the local competition offers valuable insights into potential challenges and opportunities. These allow for making informed decisions regarding differentiation, pricing, and marketing. 

Competitive Advantages and Differentiators

Highlighting what sets your business apart from competitors is crucial. And, how you’re planning to capture market share effectively. This demonstrates self-awareness and establishes your business’s unique value proposition. Conveying differentiators highlights strategic planning and readiness to leverage strengths for sustainable growth. 

Business Strategy

The section highlights pricing your services and the factors that influence how much to charge. Let’s see them in detail. 

HVAC Pricing

A comprehensive pricing strategy should balance various factors. These include service complexity, labor, material cost, and market demand. Evaluate the intricacy of each service while considering variables such as equipment, installation, and repair scope. Transparent and value-driven pricing ensures profitability while fostering trust and long-term relationships with clients.  

Factors Influencing Pricing 

There are several factors that determine heating service pricing models. Let’s highlight some of the most common considerations. 

• Preventive vs. repair service
• Scope of maintenance
• Complexity and size of the system
• Age and current condition of the equipment 
• Type of equipment
• Distance and service area 
• Profit goals 
• Tax and regulatory fees
•  Customer perception

Determining pricing for your services requires understanding costs, market dynamics, and business goals. Evaluating these factors allows for developing a pricing strategy for sustainable profitability and reflecting actual value. 

Implementation Summary

This section outlines air conditioning business growth strategies. It’s the roadmap for turning your business idea into a tangible and operational entity. Here are the concepts covered in the implementation summary. 

Marketing Strategies

Growing revenue with your HVAC startup business plan requires understanding how potential customers can know about your company. So, you need an effective marketing strategy to attract new clients and retain old ones. 

Here are a few ideas you can use.

• Create a mobile-friendly website
• Be active on social media platforms
• Invest in Google ads 
• Use email marketing
• Online reviews and testimonials
• Develop partnerships 
• Start a referral program
• Offer maintenance plans 

Remember that consistency is key in marketing. A well-rounded strategy should include online and offline efforts to reach a wider audience.

Sales Forecasts and Strategies

Air conditioning service sales forecasts predict revenue over a particular period. This is based on heating and cooling market trends, historical data, and projected growth. Sales strategies outline how to approach the market, attract customers, and convert leads into paying clients. 

HVAC business milestones and goals provide measurable and tangible markers of progress and achievement. They are critical checkpoints to track growth trajectory and successful completion of key objectives. They provide clarity and accountability for the business to stay on course.

Management Summary

This section has an overview of aspects regarding the management of your business. The section may highlight salary and labor costs, the number of employees and their roles, job completion rate, and minimum job cost. 

Let’s see these in detail. 

Salary and Labor Costs

Highlight salary and labor costs because they impact financial sustainability and service quality. A competitive salary attracts and retains skilled technicians. Optimizing labor efficiency through strategic scheduling and workflow management using dedicated HVAC software boosts cost-effectiveness. 

Number of Employees

The number of employees directly impacts operational capacity, service reach, and customer satisfaction. Portraying the size of your team highlights a commitment to addressing customer needs without compromising service quality. The workforce size also reflects the capacity to handle different challenges to achieve operational excellence. 

Job Completion Rate

A job completion rate is a metric for operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Successful completion of projects reflects a commitment to meeting customer expectations. A high job completion rate shows adept project management, a skilled workforce, and streamlined processes that contribute to timely and successful job outcomes. 

Minimum Job Cost

Including the minimum job cost in a business plan for HVAC company portrays transparency, customer accessibility, and financial prudence. The approach shows the ability to cater to the needs of various clients while maintaining operational viability. Besides, it showcases a commitment to honesty and straightforwardness so clients can confidently anticipate project costs. 

Financial Plan

Time to look at the financial aspects of your business over a given period. The financial plan provides an overview of how your business expects to generate revenue, manage expenses, and ultimately achieve profitability. 

The key components include:

Balance Sheet

A balance sheet is a summary of the company’s assets, liabilities, and shareholder’s equity at a given moment. The section offers insights into the company’s financial health, solvency, and net worth. 

Sales Forecast

It’s a projection with estimates of future sales revenue your business anticipates to generate over a given period. Sales forecasting involves analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and consumer behavior to predict potential demand for your services. 

Business Ratios

Also known as financial ratios, business ratios are tools for assessing and analyzing various financial variables. The ratios provide insights into the company’s performance, financial health, efficiency, and overall management effectiveness. 

Start-up Funding

This is the capital required to launch and establish a new business. Start-up funding encompasses financial resources necessary for marketing, operations, hiring, renting office space, and furnishings. You should outline the funding source in the HVAC business plan. 

Personnel Plan

This section outlines the human resource aspect of your business. The personnel plan highlights the projected staffing needs, organizational structure, roles, and responsibilities. This section overviews the personnel required to execute the business strategy. 

Expense Budget

An expense budget outlines anticipated costs and expenditures the business expects to incur in a given period. The budget includes operating expenses and day-to-day costs to run the business. 

Break-Even Analysis

This is a financial tool for calculating the point at which a business’s total revenue equals total costs, leading to neither profit nor loss. Break-even analysis identifies the level of sales volume required to cover all fixed and variable costs. 

Projected Cash Flow and Profit & Loss

The projected cash flow outlines the expected cash inflow in the form of revenue or costs in a given period. It’s a comprehensive overview of how cash moves in the business. The profit and loss statement summarizes revenues, costs, and expenses in a business for a given period. 

To end this guide, you need to understand why to regularly update your HVAC sample business plan. Additionally, you need to value its role in the success of your venture. 

Importance of Regular Updates to the HVAC Business Plan

Here’s why you need to keep updating your HVAC business plan regularly. 

• Lenders need it to make informed decisions
• Emergence of stronger or new competition
• When starting a new financial period
• Management change in your business 
• If the old plan doesn’t reflect business values anymore
• When the business has reached a threshold
• Significant change in the market 

A robust business plan is paramount for start-up success. By following our step-by-step guide, you can lay a strong foundation for your HVAC venture. Additionally, incorporating free HVAC software for scheduling such as Field Complete will empower your business to thrive.

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Business Plan for an HVAC Company: How to Write One and Keep It Fresh

• by Sonya Stinson Sonya Stinson is a New ... more
• March 19, 2019
• 11  Minute Read
• Home > Blog > Financial Health > Business Plan for an HVAC Company: How to Write One and Keep It Fresh

When you’re running an HVAC company, you’re on board for all the ups and downs that come with owning a high-demand, seasonal business. A carefully crafted business plan for an HVAC company is the first step to manage those peaks and lulls so your profits stay healthy year-round. If you didn’t create a heating and cooling business plan when you started your business, it’s not too late to build one now or to give your original plan an update.

As an HVAC business owner, you’re part of an expanding U.S. industry worth $96 billion, according to market research firm IBISWorld . Over the last five years, the industry has seen 2.9 percent growth in revenue, 3.1 percent growth in the number of businesses, and 4.2 percent growth in the number of employees, IBISWorld reported.

The steadiness of the industry’s growth doesn’t necessarily translate to the experience of operating an HVAC company. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning business tends to run hot and cold. Demand heats up during the summer and winter when customers need their HVAC systems repaired for relief against the heat and cold; service calls drop off when milder weather arrives.

Your heating and cooling business plan will include a financial forecast that anticipates the impact of the slow seasons, as well as ideas and resources you intend to use to keep your cash flow from grinding to a halt during those times.

Read on to learn how to write a business plan that will keep your HVAC business profitable through every season and ready to improve its bottom line year after year.

Writing a Business Plan for an HVAC Company

Think of your heating and cooling business plan as a road map to guide you through the early years, management, and growth of your HVAC business. That’s how the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) described the general purpose of this document.

A solid business plan will also back up your case for seeking funding for your business. It will educate lenders and investors about your business and its financial situation, show them that you have carefully thought through your mission and goals, and make a compelling case for how funding will contribute to your business’s success.

A business plan for an HVAC company is such a detailed document that the process of creating one can sometimes seem overwhelming. To make it easier, start by familiarizing yourself with all the parts of a typical small business plan. Then, tackle each section one by one or in manageable groups, providing the information required in each section.

The SBA listed the following as standard elements of a traditional business plan:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Market analysis
• Organization and management
• Service or product line
• Marketing and sales
• Funding request
• Financial projection

Here’s a basic breakdown of each section:

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a brief overview of your business. In this section, you will outline what your company does, where it operates, who leads it, and how many employees you have. You should also summarize your business’s financial projections and any funding requirements. Though the executive summary is the first section in your business plan, it’s often easiest to write it last. You’ll have a better understanding of what you want to highlight in this section after you’ve written the others. Remember to keep the executive summary concise, under two pages if possible.

Company Description

In this section, you’ll go into greater detail about your company. You’ll define your company’s mission, clearly explaining your company’s purpose and problems it seeks to solve, your target market and customers, and your unique selling proposition (what makes you stand out from the competition). You should also talk about your company’s management team and how you define and measure success.

Market Analysis

Preparing for this section is one of the biggest homework assignments required to write a business plan for an HVAC company. You’ll research your intended business market — looking for trends, sizing up your competition, and figuring out how your business can do things better or address an unmet need. This research involves gathering information from market research companies, reviewing trend stories in industry trade publications, and reading reports in general business publications. Then, in the market analysis section, you’ll summarize the results.

Organization and Management

Here’s where you’ll describe the legal structure of your company (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC or corporation) and its organization. The SBA suggested including an organizational chart to illustrate who is in charge of what, and the relationship between those roles. You might also include resumes or CVs of key team members in this section.

Service or Product Line

This part is pretty straightforward: You’ll describe the products and/or services your business sells and how they benefit your customers.

Marketing and Sales

In this section, you’ll describe what you envision as your marketing strategy. As the SBA noted, you should be prepared to adjust this strategy as your needs evolve. You also will describe your sales process.

Funding Request

If you intend to seek funding for your business, this section will state how much money you will need to operate the business over the next five years and exactly how you will use the money. You’ll also specify whether you’re seeking debt or equity funding, and list your ideal terms for the loan or investment you’re requesting.

Financial Projection

This section presents your five-year financial forecast . If your business is still in its early stages, the income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and capital expenditure budgets you present will, of course, be estimates. An established business will include its financial statements from the last three to five years. Feel free to include charts or graphs in this section to help illustrate your business’s financial picture.

This section might include supporting documents like credit histories, resumes, product pictures, letters of reference, licenses, permits, patents, legal documents and other contracts.

Now, let’s delve a little deeper into how a business plan for an HVAC company might approach the service/product, marketing and financial sections.

Choosing Your HVAC Service and Product Line

Your business model likely includes the repair, installation and maintenance of HVAC equipment, but the offerings you outline in your heating and cooling business plan don’t have to end there. For example, you might also sell heating and air conditioning systems.

If you’re in the first few years of business, you may opt to keep your service and product line simple for now. But if you are an established business in the process of revising your heating and cooling business plan, consider whether you are ready to add some complementary sales or services, such as plumbing, insulation, duct sealing, indoor air quality evaluation or system performance reviews.

Of course, you’ll also want to refresh your market analysis to get some solid indications of the customer interest and competition in those areas. Before sitting down to write the service and product portion of a business plan for an HVAC company, you’ll want to get up to speed on some of the latest trends, from ductless heating and cooling systems to HVAC systems that use renewable energy sources.

The growing interest in smart homes, in which heating and air conditioning systems can be controlled remotely, could be another potential opportunity for sales. According to the market research firm Statista , household penetration in the U.S. smart home market is already at 33 percent and is expected to reach 54 percent by 2023. A business plan for an HVAC company that intends to pursue this avenue needs to show a high level of knowledge about smart home HVAC products and consumer adoption.

Creating an HVAC Marketing Plan

When preparing to write the sales and marketing section of a business plan for an HVAC company, there are many factors to consider.

Your target market is a key aspect in determining how your sales and marketing strategy will shape up. Does your HVAC business cater to residential or commercial customers or both? What specific types of homes, businesses or other facilities do you serve? How wide is your geographic service area? You need to answer these questions to create your marketing plan.

You’ll also want to think about the methods you will use to advertise your business. For example, will you list your business on home improvement business directories like Angie’s List and HomeAdvisor? Do you anticipate placing television ads when your revenue reaches a point where that’s affordable? Do you have ideas for how to incorporate social media into your marketing plan?

When business is less hectic, it can be the perfect time to brainstorm creative methods for promoting your HVAC company as well. For example, you might try participating in home and garden shows, trade shows or other kinds of event marketing. Or maybe you’ll introduce a contest, a giveaway or a special financing arrangement to boost equipment sales. If the experiments pay off, you can formalize them as part of the marketing strategy you outline in next year’s business plan.

Seasonality is also likely to influence your sales and marketing strategy. When repair calls drop off during the slow season, it might be a good time to focus on selling things like maintenance agreements, indoor air quality products, energy efficiency upgrades or insulation. Thinking about what services you will promote and when can help you develop your marketing strategy.

For example, promoting maintenance services to existing customers during the slow season can help ease the peak season strain on your tech crew, as noted in Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration (ACHR) News . Technicians can primarily focus on responding to calls from new customers, while your established customers stay happy as their HVAC systems hum along nicely thanks to proactive checkups. The marketing portion of your business plan for an HVAC company should include how you’ll advertise these types of services.

Building a Solid HVAC Financial Plan

Your market analysis and other research should turn up information like the average cost of running an HVAC business, the average earnings over a one- to five-year timespan, and perhaps some industry trends in your geographic area. This is the type of research that needs to be incorporated into the financial outlook of a business plan for an HVAC company.

ACHR News recommended creating a five-year plan for managing your business expenses. That may sound like a daunting process, but a good first step is to simply make a list of every possible expense you think your HVAC business will incur. Next, you can organize the list into categories and, taking one group at a time, begin to work out estimates for each cost item.

Your expense list will include wages (if you have or intend to have employees), vehicles, fuel, HVAC tools and safety equipment, office supplies, utilities and the cost of leasing or owning your business space. Your list should also include insurance, like the cost of a general liability policy and property and worker’s compensation insurance.

Additionally, HVAC businesses often must pay licensing and certification fees, so be sure to check out the specific HVAC licensing requirements in your state. HVAC Classes included a handy chart of the organization in charge of HVAC licensing in each state. For HVAC franchises, there is a one-time franchise fee and the payment of a cut of annual revenue to the franchisor to take into account.

Implementing your marketing strategy will cost money, too. You’ll need a budget for any print, online, radio or TV ads you place to attract customers to your business. And since having a website is a must for any business that wants to be competitive, include website development as one of the expenses in your heating and cooling business plan.

A business plan for an HVAC company also needs to incorporate an IT budget. Estimate the cost of things like onsite computer equipment, mobile devices for field technicians, cloud data storage and software. For example, you may need to acquire software programs for sales support, customer relationship management, project quote templates, scheduling and invoicing.

You’ll also need to consider how costs are impacted by seasonality. A business plan for an HVAC company might factor in potential payments for additional work hours during peak seasons, additions to your truck or van fleet to accommodate the increased demand, and the general maintenance of your transportation fleet. You’ll also need to consider how you will retain or acquire enough cash to cover your business expenses during the mild weather slow seasons. Your goal should be to at least break even during the slow periods, as HVAC training director Mike Moore pointed out in Contracting Business .

In addition to detailing your projected expenses, the financial section of your heating and cooling business plan should also include long-term revenue goals and projections, which will help you determine the number of monthly billable hours, sales and service calls necessary to meet those marks. They will also help lenders and investors assess the financial outlook for your business.

Developing an HVAC Hiring and Training Plan

Since employee wages and other HR costs will likely be the biggest expense for any HVAC business that hires staff, we’re breaking this item out of the general discussion of financial projections and into its own category. Having adequate funds to hire and train salespeople, technicians, and marketing, communications and administrative staff is crucial to the survival of your business.

Consider the various employee training options available and what they cost. Will you handle training in-house or outsource it to a separate company? Will you provide onsite instructors, online learning or combine the two formats?

Think about the volume of business you expect to generate, not just at the beginning but over the entire year that your HVAC company will be operating under this business plan. Go back to your mission statement and consider the minimum staffing level you will need to meet the standards you laid out.

While it wouldn’t be cost-effective to hire more people than you currently need in anticipation of future demand, you might want to incorporate into your business plan some goals or projections for future staff growth and the steps you will take to increase your staff when needed.

There also may be some long-term recruitment strategies that you can begin rolling out even when business is slow. For example, you might work on cultivating relationships with area community colleges and trade schools, perhaps even serving on advisory boards that help design their courses and curricula. A budget for this type of outreach could be included in the financial section of your business plan.

Revisiting and Revising Your Heating and Cooling Business Plan

A business plan for an HVAC company can’t remain stagnant if that business is to prosper. You can’t just create your business plan and then forget about it. You need to know whether that plan is working and what adjustments you need to make if it’s not. You need to check the projections you made against the realities you’ve experienced while running your business. That’s why regularly reviewing and updating your business plan is so important.

When to Review the Business Plan

Business experts usually recommend reviewing your business plan at least once a year. In an Entrepreneur article, business planner and angel investor Tim Berry said you should be updating your business plan constantly, “when you’re alone in the shower, when you’re caught in traffic on the way to work, and when you’re walking alone.” In other words, you should think of business planning as an ongoing process, and always be ready to adjust it when significant changes occur.

According to the National Federation of Independent Business , there are eight events that should automatically trigger a business plan update:

• The addition of a new partner or owner
• A change or addition of locations
• An advantage gain by a competitor
• A financial decline
• A missed goal
• A change in your product or service line
• A decision to seek financing
• Rapid growth

The Review Process

Look at your mission statement, your product and service line plans, and your marketing strategy, and compare them to how your business has actually performed over the past year.

Have you been able to adhere to your original mission? Have there been new developments in your industry, unforeseen business opportunities, or other surprises that cause you to rethink what that mission should be?

Analyze your sales patterns, your customer feedback and your competition. Are customers buying the items or services that you predicted would bring in the highest sales? Are customers facing new problems that need solutions? Are you at risk of losing customers to competitors because they offer solutions that you don’t?

A business plan for an HVAC company should also undergo a periodic financial analysis. Since businesses usually generate monthly financial statements, Berry suggested reviewing this part of your business plan monthly as well.

Review your records from tracking your service calls, installation sales, service agreements and other sales, along with the revenue and profit for each category. If you fell short of your financial goals for the period, you might consider adjusting your sales and marketing strategy or your product and service line to generate more revenue. Or you might determine that slower growth is more realistic than what you originally envisioned, leading you to revise your financial outlook.

Time Well Spent

The early few years of your business are an exciting time, and it’s tempting to let pure enthusiasm direct your path forward. But if you want your new HVAC business to have staying power, you must step back and devote the necessary time to developing a business plan. And remember that a business plan for an HVAC company isn’t meant to be a static document. It’s a framework to guide the launch or revamp of your business that you can build upon and restructure as the business evolves.

Take a few steps now toward putting your business plan together, and soon enough you’ll have the document done so you can move closer to putting your plan into action.

Once you have your business plan in place, consider heating and cooling business loan options with National Funding.

Tags: Auto Repair Shops , Business Financing , Business Growth , Construction , Equipment Financing , Managing your Cash Flow , Marketing for Small Business , Trucking

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HVAC Business Plan Guide + Free Sample

July 6, 2023

Adam Hoeksema

The HVAC industry presents significant opportunities for growth and success. While some may perceive running an HVAC business as a simple operation focused on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services, it actually requires careful planning and precise execution to thrive. Therefore, having a well-crafted business plan is crucial for success in this industry.

At ProjectionHub, we specialize in creating HVAC financial projection models . However, we recognize that some of our clients need more than just financial projections. That's why we have taken the initiative to delve into this subject and address the following aspects in our comprehensive HVAC business plan guide and sample plan:

• Why write a business plan for an HVAC business?

What to include in an HVAC startup business plan?

Hvac company business plan outline, how to determine the market demand for hvac services in my area, how to analyze the competition for an hvac services company, how to create financial projections for an hvac startup, example hvac business plan, hvac business plan faqs, why write a business plan for a hvac business.

The HVAC industry requires a well-crafted business plan for several reasons. If you, as an HVAC company owner, are seeking financial support from investors, banks, or financial institutions, having a well-structured business plan becomes a fundamental prerequisite. By presenting a comprehensive evaluation of the HVAC market, a clear and strategic approach, and a thoughtful assessment of potential risks and rewards, you enhance your chances of attracting the necessary funding for your HVAC business. A strong business plan showcases your in-depth understanding of the HVAC industry, your growth strategies, and your ability to effectively navigate challenges, making it more likely for investors and lenders to support your HVAC company venture.

A comprehensive HVAC business plan should address the reasons why customers will choose your HVAC services, demonstrate why you or your team are the ideal operators for the HVAC company, and present a strong financial projection that ensures the investment's security for potential investors and lenders. Below, you will find the outline of our complimentary HVAC business plan template.

We suggest the following sections for your HVAC business plan:

Executive Summary

Company Description

Market Analysis

Product and Service Offerings

Marketing Plan & Customer Acquisition

Operating Plan

Financial Plan

Analyzing the market for HVAC services is crucial to understand your potential customers, competitors, and the overall dynamics of the local market. Here's a step-by-step guide tailored for HVAC services:

Identify Your Target Audience: Determine who might need your HVAC services. Are you targeting homeowners, commercial businesses, builders, or landlords? Understanding the unique requirements of these segments will enable you to cater to their specific needs.

Market Size Estimation: Gauge the size of your potential market within your area. Consider the number of buildings, seasonal climate changes, existing competitors, and any local regulations or construction trends.

Utilize Google Trends and Local Data: Use Google Trends to observe trends in popularity within your local market for HVAC services. If we examine the HVAC industry, for instance, we can track seasonal patterns and trends over the last 5 years for search terms related to specific HVAC services, such as "air conditioning repair" This analysis can help you identify when demand for particular HVAC services might peak in your area, allowing you to align your marketing strategies and service offerings with those periods of heightened demand.might peak, allowing you to align your marketing and service offerings accordingly.

Competitor Analysis: Assess local competitors, their offerings, pricing strategies, marketing approaches, customer reviews, and market share. Understanding what others are doing can help you identify gaps or niches in the market.

Trend Analysis: Investigate current trends in HVAC technology, energy efficiency demands, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences. Keeping an eye on industry publications and local news can provide valuable insights.

SWOT Analysis: Perform a SWOT analysis - strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to your HVAC business. Consider aspects like your technical expertise, customer service quality, and relationships with suppliers.

Pricing Analysis: Evaluate your competitors' pricing and understand the budget constraints of potential customers. This will help you set a price that's both competitive and profitable within your local market.

Customer Behavior and Preferences: Utilize surveys, interviews, and online reviews to understand what drives customer decisions in your area. Consider factors such as quality, responsiveness, reputation, and the importance of energy-efficient solutions.

Seasonal Demand Analysis: HVAC services may have seasonal demand fluctuations. Analyze historical weather data, energy consumption rates, and seasonal maintenance schedules to forecast when services might be most required.

Each of these steps will give you a detailed picture of the market demand for HVAC services in your area, allowing you to tailor your business strategy accordingly. By continually assessing these factors, you can stay ahead of market changes and customer needs, ensuring the continued success and growth of your HVAC business.

When it comes to analyzing the competition in the HVAC industry, there are a few valuable tools you can use, with one of the most useful being Ahrefs.

Ahrefs is a powerful SEO tool that enables you to research and dissect your competitor HVAC companies' online presence. By inputting a competitor's website into Ahrefs, you can gain valuable insights into their organic traffic and the specific keywords responsible for driving that traffic.  For example, we can see that Williams Comfort Air is receiving roughly 32,000 monthly website visitors.  

The tool provides valuable data on your competitor's organic traffic and highlights the keywords that are leading visitors to their website.

By understanding the keywords and SEO strategies employed by your HVAC competitors, you can tailor your content and marketing strategies to effectively compete in the same areas or identify niche segments that may be underserved. This knowledge can help enhance your HVAC company's online visibility, attract more customers through search engines, and position your business for success in the competitive HVAC industry.

BuzzSumo : The free version of BuzzSumo allows you to discover the most popular content for any topic or competitor. By entering keywords related to HVAC services or your competitor's name, you can find out what content is being shared and engaged with the most. This information can help you understand what topics resonate with your audience and what strategies your competitors are employing in their content marketing.

The HVAC industry's financial projections are shaped by distinct factors, including client acquisition rates, project pricing, seasonal demand, and operational expenses. Leveraging an HVAC financial projection template can streamline the process and instill confidence in your planning. Yet, these precise financial projections serve a more significant purpose than merely displaying revenue potential; they pave the way to profitability and the realization of your HVAC business objectives. By considering these critical elements, you can create a robust financial plan that guides your HVAC business towards success and ensures the fulfillment of your goals.

To create precise projections, follow these key steps:

Estimate startup costs for your HVAC company, including equipment purchases, tools, vehicles, licensing, insurance, marketing, and initial staff training.

Forecast revenue based on projected client acquisition rates, average project prices, and potential growth in your customer base.

Project ongoing operational costs , such as staff salaries, rent, utility expenses, maintenance, and marketing costs.

Estimate costs related to providing HVAC services, including materials, subcontractor fees, and project-specific expenses.

Calculate the capital needed to launch and sustain your HVAC company, covering initial expenses and providing working capital for continued growth.

While financial projections are vital for your HVAC business plan , seek guidance from experienced professionals in the HVAC industry. Adapt your projections based on real-world insights, leverage industry resources, and stay informed about HVAC market trends and evolving customer preferences to ensure your financial plan aligns with your goals and positions your HVAC company for long-term success.

Discover our HVAC Business Plan, provided below. Alternatively, you can access a downloadable Google Doc version of this HVAC business plan template , enabling you to customize and adapt it according to your specific requirements. Moreover, we offer a helpful video walkthrough, assisting you in personalizing the business plan to perfectly align with your distinct HVAC business concept.

Table of Contents

1. executive summary.

1.1 Organization Overview

1.2. Objectives

1.3. Mission Statement

2. Organization Description

2.1. Organization History

2.2. Legal Structure

2.3. Unique Value Proposition

2.4. Target Beneficiaries

3. Market Analysis

3.1. industry overview.

3.2. Collaborator and Competitor Identification

3.3. Target Beneficiaries

Key Point  1

4. Marketing and Fundraising

4.1. Strategic Plan

4.2. Program or Service Offerings:

4.4. Distribution Channels

4.5. Promotions and Fundraising

Key Point  2

5. Organizational Structure and Management

5.1. Organization’s Facility & Location

5.2. Staffing Plan and Volunteer Management

5.3. Governance, Financial Management, and Accountability

Key Point  3

6. financial plan.

6.1. Startup Costs

6.3. Expense Projections

6.4. profit and loss statement, 6.5. cash flow projections, 6.6. break-even analysis, 7. appendix.

7.1. Supporting Documents

7.2. Glossary of Term

7.3. References and Resources

Key Point  5

 1.1. company overview.

Briefly introduce the company's background, products or services, and target market.

      -  Example: AirTech Solutions is an HVAC business based in New York City, New York. We specialize in providing high-quality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services to residential and commercial customers. Our comprehensive range of HVAC solutions ensures optimal indoor comfort and air quality for our clients.

   1.2. Objectives

Outlines the company's short-term and long-term goals.

        - Example: Establish AirTech Solutions as a reputable and trusted HVAC service provider in New York City, gaining a significant market share within the first year of operation.

        - Example: Long-term: Expand our business and become a leading HVAC company in the region, recognized for our expertise, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

  1.3. Mission Statement

 Describes the company's purpose and core values.

        - Example:  To deliver superior HVAC services that enhance the comfort, health, and energy efficiency of our customers' living and working environments.

  1.4. Keys to Success

Highlights the factors that will contribute to the company's growth and success.

        - Example: Our success at AirTech Solutions is driven by our technical expertise, commitment to customer satisfaction, provision of quality products and services, professionalism, and adaptability to market needs.

2. Company Description

   2.1. company history.

Provides context on the company's background and founding story.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions was founded by Peter Sanders, who has over 15 years of experience in the HVAC industry. Peter's passion for providing high-quality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services led him to establish AirTech Solutions.

   2.2. Legal Structure

 Describes the company's legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation).

        - Example: AirTech Solutions operates as a limited liability corporation (LLC).

 2.3. Unique Selling Proposition

  Emphasizes the company's competitive advantage or unique offerings.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions stands out by offering cutting-edge HVAC solutions that prioritize energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and customer comfort. 

  2.4. Target Market

Defines the company's ideal customer base.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions serves residential and commercial customers in New York City, focusing on clients who value reliable and sustainable HVAC systems. 

  Presents a general overview of the industry, its trends, and growth potential.

        - Example: The HVAC industry in New York City is thriving due to increased construction activities, a focus on energy efficiency, and the need for optimal indoor air quality.

3.2. Competitor Analysis

 Evaluates the company's direct and indirect competitors, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

        - Example: Direct competitors: Other established HVAC companies in New York City offering a range of services.

        - Example: Indirect competitorsEnergy management companies, general contractors providing HVAC services, and specialized maintenance companies.

3.3. Target Market Analysis

Explores the company's target customers, their demographics, preferences, and pain points.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions' target customers include residential homeowners, commercial property owners, real estate developers, and facility managers.

3.4. Market Opportunities

Identifies potential opportunities for the company to grow within the market.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions can leverage market opportunities by establishing partnerships with green building developers, offering preventive maintenance packages, promoting energy-efficient upgrades, and providing eco-friendly HVAC solutions for new construction projects.

• Example 1: Analyze local HVAC industry trends and demand to determine the market potential. (e.g., 10% annual growth in HVAC installations in the target area)
• Example 2: Conduct a survey among businesses and homeowners to assess their HVAC service needs and satisfaction levels. (e.g., 80% of surveyed businesses express a need for reliable and energy-efficient HVAC solutions)

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

4.1. product or service offerings: .

Describes the company's products or services in detail.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions provides a comprehensive range of HVAC services, including installation, repair, maintenance, and energy-efficient upgrades for residential and commercial properties.

4.2. Pricing Strategy

 Outlines the company's approach to pricing its products or services.

        - Example: We adopt a competitive pricing strategy based on industry standards, offering transparent and value-driven pricing for HVAC services, with flexible options tailored to meet customer needs.

4.3. Sales Strategy

  Explains how the company plans to generate sales and build

customer relationships.

        - Example: We will implement a customer-centric sales approach, leveraging referrals and strategic partnerships with contractors and property managers, and personalized consultations to generate leads and build long-term customer relationships.

 Describes the methods through which the company will deliver its products or services to customers.

        - Example:  AirTech Solutions delivers its HVAC services directly to customers at their locations throughout New York City. Additionally, the company maintains an online presence, enabling customers to access information, request quotes, and schedule appointments conveniently.

4.5. Promotions and Advertising

 Details the company's promotional efforts and advertising strategies.

        - Example:  We will utilize targeted digital marketing campaigns, local directories, SEO, and social media platforms to raise brand awareness and attract potential customers. The company will also leverage positive customer reviews and referrals to build trust and credibility within the local market.

• Example1: Begin providing HVAC handyman services on your own in your extra time to build some local awareness and recognition. Form a social media page or presence to slowly grow your customer base before launching the full business.
• Example 2: Offer free HVAC system inspections and consultations to generate leads and showcase expertise. (e.g., 50% of customers who received a free inspection request AirTech Solutions for further services)
• Example 3: Collaborate with local contractors and builders to become their preferred HVAC service provider. (e.g., Secured partnerships with three prominent contractors, securing a steady stream of new installations and maintenance contracts)

5. Operations and Management

5.1. service delivery efficiency.

 Refers to streamlining processes to ensure prompt and reliable HVAC services.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions will implement a digital scheduling and dispatch system that assigns service requests to the nearest available technician based on location, expertise, and workload, optimizing response time and improving overall service efficiency.

5.2. Workforce Management

  Involves staffing and maintaining a knowledgeable team for advanced HVAC solutions

        - Example: AirTech Solutions will recruit experienced technicians with industry certifications and provide regular training to stay updated with the latest HVAC technologies and ensure exceptional service delivery.

5.3. Inventory Control

Outlines effective management of HVAC equipment and parts for streamlined operations.

        - Example:  AirTech Solutions will implement a robust inventory management system to track equipment, optimize stock levels, and establish strong relationships with suppliers for timely availability of HVAC components

• Example: Peter Sanders, the owner of AirTech Solutions, has 15 years of experience in the HVAC industry, ensuring in-depth knowledge of best practices and industry standards.
• Example: The management team at AirTech Solutions consists of industry veterans with a combined experience of over 40 years, bringing a wealth of expertise in HVAC system design, installation, and maintenance.

5.4. Safety and Compliance

Involves adhering to safety regulations and industry standards in all operations.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions will conduct regular safety training sessions, enforce strict safety protocols, and maintain comprehensive documentation to meet all legal requirements and create a safe working environment for our team and clients.

All of the unique Self Storage projections you see here were generated using ProjectionHub’s HVAC Business Financial Projection Template . Use PH20BP to enjoy a 20% discount on the template. 

   6.1. Startup Costs

  Provide a detailed breakdown of the total startup costs requirements, and where you plan for those funds to come from. You will also want to breakdown how the startup costs will be used including working capital to cover losses before the business breaks even.

        - Example: Creating a solid financial plan is crucial, and we are taking the necessary steps to ensure the success of AirTech Solutions. We have $50,000 secured from a personal investment from Peter and we are working with a financial institution to secure a business loan of around $250,000. By combining these funding sources, we are confident in our ability to meet the startup cost requirements and establish a strong foundation for AirTech Solutions. 

6.2. Revenue Projections

Provides an estimate of the company's future revenue based on market research and assumptions.

        - Example:  AirTech Solutions projects $1,287,000 in revenue in the first year. The company anticipates steady growth in revenue over the initial five-year period.

 Estimates the company's future expenses, including fixed and variable costs.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions's non-labor operating expenses include property lease, accounting, advertising, insurance, utilities, and more.

Summarizes the company's revenue, expenses, and net income over a specific period.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions expects to achieve profitability within the first year of operation.

 Outlines the company's projected cash inflows and outflows.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions cash flow projections account for seasonal fluctuations in sales and expenses.

  Determines the point at which the company's revenue equals its expenses.

        - Example: AirTech Solutions anticipates reaching its break-even point in year 1 of operation.

Watch how to create financial projections for your HVAC Business

Key Point  4 

• Example 1: Compare financial projections to industry benchmarks for revenue growth and profit margins. (e.g., Aim to achieve a gross margin of 30%, in line with industry averages)
• Example 2: Incorporate seasonal fluctuations in HVAC demand and adjust revenue forecasts accordingly. (e.g., Anticipate a 15% increase in revenue during the summer months due to higher demand for air conditioning services)

   7.1. Supporting Documents

 Includes any relevant documentation that supports the information presented in the business plan, such as resumes, financial projections, market research data, and permits or licenses.

   7.2. Glossary of Term

 Provides definitions for industry-specific terms used throughout the business plan to ensure reader comprehension.

   7.3. References and Resources

Lists any sources or resources referenced during the preparation of the business plan, including industry reports, market research data, and relevant publications.

• Example: Peter Sanders invests $50,000 of his personal savings into AirTech Solutions, demonstrating commitment and shared risk.
• Example: AirTech Solutions secures a business loan with equipment and inventory as collateral, showcasing their dedication to the success of the company.

How do I start an HVAC installation and repair business?

To start an HVAC installation and repair business, gain the necessary certifications and licenses, obtain liability insurance, purchase or lease required tools and equipment, establish relationships with suppliers, create a pricing structure, and develop a marketing strategy to reach potential clients.

What are the common HVAC services offered by HVAC companies?

Common HVAC services offered by HVAC companies include installation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, routine maintenance and tune-ups, repair services for HVAC equipment, duct cleaning, indoor air quality assessments, and energy efficiency evaluations.

How can I attract customers to my new HVAC business?

To attract customers, invest in professional branding and a user-friendly website, utilize search engine optimization to rank higher in local search results, offer competitive pricing, provide exceptional customer service, participate in local trade shows or home improvement events, and ask for referrals from satisfied customers.

What are the essential tools and equipment needed for HVAC installation and repair startup?

Essential tools and equipment for HVAC installation and repair include gauges, thermometers, hand tools (such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers), refrigerant recovery equipment, leak detection devices, electrical testing tools, and a variety of HVAC system components and parts.

About the Author

Adam is the Co-founder of ProjectionHub which helps entrepreneurs create financial projections for potential investors, lenders and internal business planning. Since 2012, over 50,000 entrepreneurs from around the world have used ProjectionHub to help create financial projections.

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Here is a free business plan sample for an air conditioning company.

Are you looking to launch an air conditioning business but unsure of the first steps to take? You've landed in the perfect spot.

Here, we will present to you a comprehensive sample business plan tailored for an air conditioning company.

As an aspiring entrepreneur, you're likely aware that a robust business plan is crucial for achieving success. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and strategies for your enterprise.

To craft a compelling plan with ease and precision, you can utilize our air conditioning company business plan template. Additionally, our specialists are on hand to provide a free review and refinement of your plan.

How to draft a great business plan for your air conditioning company?

A good business plan for an air conditioning company must cater to the unique aspects of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry.

To start, it's crucial to provide a comprehensive overview of the market. This includes up-to-date statistics and an exploration of emerging trends within the HVAC sector, as illustrated in our air conditioning company business plan template .

Then, you need to articulate your business concept effectively. This encompasses your vision, identifying your target market (such as homeowners, commercial businesses, or contractors), and the distinctive positioning of your air conditioning company (energy-efficient systems, smart-home integration, maintenance services, etc.).

The market analysis section is vital. It requires a thorough understanding of local competitors, industry trends, and consumer needs.

For an air conditioning company, particular emphasis should be placed on the services and products you intend to provide. Detail your offerings - installation, repair, maintenance, types of units - and explain how they align with the demands and preferences of your target customers.

The operational plan is equally important. It should outline the location of your business, the structure of your service and installation teams, supplier relationships for equipment and parts, and the logistics of service delivery.

For an air conditioning company, it is critical to highlight the expertise of your technicians, the efficiency of your operations, and adherence to industry standards and regulations.

Then, delve into your marketing and sales strategy. How will you acquire and keep clients? Consider advertising methods, service contracts for customer retention, and upselling opportunities (such as offering air quality assessments or energy efficiency audits).

Utilizing digital strategies, like maintaining a robust website or active social media presence, is also crucial in the modern marketplace.

The financial plan is another cornerstone. This should include your startup costs, revenue projections, operational expenses, and the point at which you will break even.

In the HVAC industry, the seasonality of business can affect cash flow, making it imperative to have a detailed financial strategy. For assistance, you can refer to our financial forecast for an air conditioning company .

Compared to other business plans, an air conditioning company's plan must pay special attention to technical training, certification requirements, warranty service considerations, and the seasonal nature of the business.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you clarify your business approach and strategies but also attract investors or secure loans.

Lenders and investors are looking for comprehensive market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a solid understanding of the day-to-day operations of an HVAC business.

By presenting a thorough and substantiated plan, you showcase your professionalism and dedication to the success of your enterprise.

To achieve these goals while saving time, feel free to complete our air conditioning company business plan template .

A free example of business plan for an air conditioning company

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for an air conditioning company .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The air conditioning market is a robust and essential industry, particularly in regions with extreme temperatures.

Recent estimates place the global air conditioning market at over 100 billion dollars, with projections indicating steady growth due to climate change and the increasing comfort expectations of consumers worldwide.

In the United States, there are over 105,000 HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) businesses, generating an annual revenue of approximately 94 billion dollars. This underscores the critical role air conditioning plays in American homes and businesses.

These figures highlight the significant demand for air conditioning services and the industry's substantial contribution to the economy.

The air conditioning industry is experiencing several key trends that are shaping its future.

Energy efficiency is at the forefront, with consumers and businesses alike seeking systems that reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. This has led to the development of high-efficiency HVAC systems and smart thermostats that can be controlled remotely.

There is also a growing emphasis on environmentally friendly refrigerants and systems that minimize the environmental impact, in response to regulations and consumer demand for sustainable solutions.

Technological advancements, such as the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) in HVAC systems, are allowing for predictive maintenance and improved system performance monitoring.

Additionally, the rise of smart homes and buildings is driving the demand for HVAC systems that can seamlessly integrate with other smart technologies for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Lastly, the focus on indoor air quality has intensified, especially in light of health concerns, leading to increased interest in air purification and filtration systems.

These trends demonstrate the industry's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and meeting the evolving needs of modern consumers.

Success Factors

The success of an air conditioning company hinges on several critical factors.

Quality of service is paramount. Companies that provide reliable, efficient, and timely installations, maintenance, and repairs are more likely to build a strong customer base.

Expertise and technical knowledge in the field are essential for diagnosing and solving complex HVAC issues, which can differentiate a company in a competitive market.

Location and availability are also important, as customers often require quick responses to air conditioning failures, especially during peak seasons.

Customer service excellence is crucial for fostering trust and repeat business. A company that is responsive, courteous, and helpful will likely enjoy positive word-of-mouth and customer loyalty.

Lastly, effective cost management and the ability to offer competitive pricing, while also embracing eco-friendly practices and adapting to technological advancements, are key to the long-term success of an air conditioning company.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our air conditioning company project is designed to address the essential need for comfortable and healthy indoor climates in both residential and commercial settings. Strategically located to serve a broad customer base, our company will specialize in providing high-quality, energy-efficient air conditioning solutions, including installation, maintenance, and repair services.

We will focus on delivering systems that offer superior performance, reliability, and energy savings, ensuring that our clients enjoy a comfortable indoor environment year-round.

Our air conditioning company is poised to become a leading service provider in the HVAC industry, dedicated to enhancing the comfort and well-being of our clients through innovative climate control solutions.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our air conditioning company centers on delivering state-of-the-art climate control solutions that ensure optimal comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency for our customers.

Our commitment to utilizing the latest technology and eco-friendly practices not only provides a superior indoor environment but also helps reduce our clients' carbon footprint and energy costs.

We are dedicated to offering personalized services that cater to the unique needs of each client, whether for their home or business, and we strive to educate our customers on the benefits and best practices of maintaining their air conditioning systems.

As a trusted partner in climate control, our air conditioning company aims to be a cornerstone in the community, providing reliable and sustainable solutions that improve the quality of life for our customers.

Project Owner

The project owner is an experienced HVAC professional with a passion for delivering high-quality air conditioning services.

With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep understanding of the latest advancements in climate control technology, he is committed to establishing an air conditioning company that stands out for its dedication to customer satisfaction, efficiency, and innovation.

Driven by a mission to provide comfortable and healthy indoor environments, he is determined to offer services that not only meet but exceed customer expectations, while also promoting energy conservation and sustainability.

His expertise and enthusiasm for the HVAC industry make him the ideal leader for this project, aiming to ensure that clients enjoy the benefits of advanced, reliable, and cost-effective air conditioning solutions.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this air conditioning company are diverse and cater to a wide range of needs.

Firstly, there are residential homeowners who require reliable and efficient air conditioning systems to maintain comfort in their homes, especially during hot weather.

Commercial clients, including office buildings, retail stores, and hospitality venues, represent another significant segment, as they need to provide a comfortable environment for employees and customers.

Industrial facilities also form a part of the market, requiring specialized HVAC solutions to control the climate for process efficiency and product preservation.

Lastly, real estate developers and contractors are key segments, as they often seek partnerships for the installation of air conditioning systems in new construction projects.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of this air conditioning company highlights several factors.

Strengths include a skilled technical team, a commitment to energy-efficient solutions, and a reputation for reliable service.

Weaknesses might encompass the high costs associated with advanced technology and the need for continuous training to keep up with industry advancements.

Opportunities can be found in the growing demand for eco-friendly and smart home automation systems, as well as in potential partnerships with construction firms.

Threats could involve intense competition from established HVAC companies and the impact of economic downturns on new installations and upgrades.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the air conditioning industry indicates a highly competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other local HVAC service providers, as well as national brands with a wide range of products and services.

These competitors vie for market share by offering various pricing strategies, energy-efficient systems, and customer service excellence.

Identifying competitive advantages such as specialized services, faster response times, and superior warranties is crucial for standing out in the market.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of competitors is vital for crafting strategies that emphasize unique selling propositions and customer loyalty.

Competitive Advantages

Our air conditioning company's dedication to providing energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions sets us apart in the industry.

We offer a comprehensive range of services, from installation to maintenance and repair, all performed by certified technicians to ensure the highest standards of quality.

Our proactive approach to incorporating the latest technology in smart climate control allows us to offer innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers.

We also prioritize customer satisfaction by offering personalized services, flexible scheduling, and transparent pricing, which fosters trust and long-term relationships with our clients.

You can also read our articles about: - how to start an air conditioning company: a complete guide - the customer segments of an air conditioning company - the competition study for an air conditioning company

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the air conditioning company is designed to establish us as a leader in climate control solutions.

In the first year, we will concentrate on building a strong local presence, offering exceptional service, and establishing trust within the community.

The second year will be focused on expanding our services to neighboring regions and increasing our market share by leveraging our reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.

In the third year, we plan to innovate by introducing energy-efficient and smart technology solutions, as well as forming strategic alliances with home builders and commercial developers.

Throughout this period, we will remain dedicated to providing top-notch service, staying ahead of industry trends, and ensuring customer comfort and satisfaction.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our air conditioning company targets both residential and commercial clients in need of climate control solutions.

Our value proposition is centered on delivering reliable, energy-efficient air conditioning systems and exceptional customer service.

We offer our services through direct sales, service contracts, and our online platform, utilizing our skilled technicians and customer service team as key resources.

Key activities include installation, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning systems, as well as customer support and follow-up services.

Our revenue streams are generated from the sale of air conditioning units, ongoing service contracts, and maintenance services, while our costs are mainly associated with procurement of units, technician training, and service delivery.

Find a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on building a strong brand reputation for quality and reliability.

We aim to educate our customers on the benefits of energy-efficient air conditioning systems and the importance of regular maintenance to extend the lifespan of their units.

Our approach includes targeted online advertising, community engagement through local events, and partnerships with real estate agencies.

We will also leverage social media and customer testimonials to increase our visibility and credibility in the market.

Finally, we plan to offer seasonal promotions and referral discounts to encourage word-of-mouth and repeat business.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our air conditioning company is designed to mitigate risks associated with technical service delivery, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance.

We ensure all our technicians are certified and trained in the latest technologies and safety standards, and we conduct regular service quality audits.

We manage financial risks through strategic planning and cost-effective procurement, and we maintain comprehensive insurance to cover potential liabilities.

Our priority is to provide safe, efficient, and reliable air conditioning solutions while safeguarding the trust and well-being of our customers.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are committed to establishing an air conditioning company that meets the growing demand for comfortable living and working environments.

With our focus on energy efficiency, customer service, and technological innovation, we are well-positioned to capture a significant share of the market.

We are enthusiastic about enhancing the comfort and well-being of our customers while building a sustainable and profitable business.

We are adaptable and ready to make the necessary changes to ensure our success, and we look forward to the bright future of our air conditioning company.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of an air conditioning company - the marketing strategy for an air conditioning company

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for an air conditioning company and our financial plan for an air conditioning company .

Initial expenses for our air conditioning company include purchasing essential HVAC tools and equipment, acquiring service vehicles, obtaining necessary licenses and insurance, training technicians in the latest air conditioning technologies, as well as costs related to brand creation and launching targeted marketing campaigns to reach our potential clients.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the local demand for air conditioning services, taking into account factors such as climate, construction growth, and the increasing trend in energy-efficient and smart home systems.

We anticipate a steady increase in service requests, starting modestly and growing as the reputation of our air conditioning company strengthens.

The projected income statement indicates expected revenues from our air conditioning services, including installations, maintenance, and repairs, as well as production costs (equipment, labor, transportation), and operating expenses (office rent, marketing, salaries, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit essential for assessing the profitability of our business over time.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as service vehicles, tools, and equipment, and liabilities including loans and anticipated expenses.

It shows the overall financial health of our air conditioning company at the end of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow budget details incoming and outgoing cash flows, allowing us to anticipate our cash needs at any given time. This will enable us to effectively manage our finances and avoid cash flow problems.

The projected financing plan lists the specific financing sources we plan to use to cover our startup expenses.

The working capital requirement for our air conditioning company will be closely monitored to ensure we have the necessary liquidity to finance our daily operations, including purchasing equipment, inventory management, and salary payments.

The break-even point specific to our project is the level of sales needed to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, and start making a profit.

It will indicate when our business will become profitable.

Performance indicators we will track include the profit margin rate on our air conditioning services, the liquidity ratio to assess our ability to cover short-term financial obligations, and the return on investment to measure the effectiveness of our capital invested in the project.

These indicators will help us evaluate the financial health and overall success of our air conditioning company.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for an air conditioning company .

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Best HVAC Companies in Florida

If you live in Florida, chances are you’re much more concerned about air conditioning than heating. Central air conditioning makes summer manageable for most of the over 22 million people in the state and keeps mold and mildew at bay. If your AC needs repair or replacement, you need a reputable contractor right away. Fortunately, Florida has a large share of HVAC contractors.

Table of Contents

HVAC Services Available in Florida

• Costs and Incentives
• Common Types of HVAC Systems

HVAC contractors can offer a range of services in addition to air conditioning. They can also help you with air vents and ducts and heating systems.

Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance can actually extend the life of your HVAC system and save you a lot of money in repair bills. You may be able to change filters and check for leaks yourself, but hire an expert to keep hoses, thermostats, and electrical connections in good shape.

If your HVAC system needs repairs, it’s best to reach out to an expert. HVAC contractors can repair leaks, replace or repair compressors, clean condenser coils, and more.

Installation or Replacement

HVAC experts in Florida must be licensed, and many hold multiple licenses that qualify them to work on specific types of systems. In addition, most HVAC experts have extensive experience as apprentices and journeymen. This means they have the skills and knowledge to install or replace entire systems – and they know how to pull permits and manage inspections. Most HVAC companies offer full installation and replacement services and will assist you through the entire process.

Best HVAC Companies

Carrier »

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Costs and Incentives for HVAC Services in Florida

Installing a new central air conditioning system in Florida will cost you between $2,000 and $8,500. The cost depends, to a large degree, on the size of your home and the amount of space you need to cool. Other cost factors include the quality of the materials you choose and any rebates you may receive for using energy-efficient products.

Heat pumps make up roughly a third of all HVAC systems in the state. State and federal incentives can help offset the cost of a new, energy-efficient heat pump. Federal incentives include a tax credit, while around 12 Florida utility companies also offer rebates for heat pump installations based on size and other factors.

Federal Tax Credits

If you are interested in saving energy by buying Energy Star products for your HVAC system, you can claim 30% of your costs or up to $1,200 in annual tax credits. Be sure to keep track of what you spend on Energy Star approved air conditioners, water heaters, and other HVAC supplies.

State Tax Credits

Rebates and other incentives exist for installing high-efficiency HVAC components in Florida homes. For example, Florida Public Utilities offers a rebate of up to $100 for replacing an existing system with a high-efficiency heat pump or AC unit. Florida Power & Light (FPL) offers a $150 rebate for installing an AC system with a SEER rating of 16 or higher.

Find HVAC Installers in Your Area

Compare quotes and options for HVAC service near you

Common Types of HVAC Systems in Florida

Florida's location, proximity to ocean water, and weather mean the state maintains a climate consisting of hot and humid summers and mild winters. To combat the heat, 96% of Florida homes have some sort of AC system in them. Within that 96%, approximately one-third have electric heat pumps .

How To Find the Right HVAC Company for You

Asking neighbors and friends can help you find a quality HVAC company in your area. You can also find options by using the search widget on this page. Once you’ve narrowed your options by looking at reviews and asking for referrals, have contractors come to your home and evaluate your needs. Ask for a written estimate, and be sure that all services and parts are covered (unless you plan to purchase your own equipment). If you want warranties or financing, be sure that’s included in the estimate as well.

HVAC licensing is an operation of the Department of Business & Professional Regulation within the state of Florida. The department handles examinations and licensing for contractors, including HVAC businesses and individuals. Homeowners in the state can verify the status of a license or contractor at myfloridalicense.com and navigate to the “Verify a Licensee” tab.

HVAC FAQ in Florida

HVAC equipment can last from 10 to 25 years, depending on how well it has been maintained and serviced.

The state of Florida requires all HVAC professionals to carry licenses, which means private accreditation may not be necessary. If your system is unusual (solar powered, for example), you might want to check to be sure the company you choose has proper training.

If you are simply replacing air filters, you can certainly do it yourself. Anything more complex, however, should be done by an expert. Improper repairs and inexperienced DIYers could damage the system, resulting in a larger and more costly issue.

In the heat of Florida, regular maintenance is important for keeping your HVAC system, particularly the AC components, in good shape. Typical annual maintenance should include having a technician check the electrical connections and thermostat, evaluate the operating status of various system components, and lubricate moving parts when necessary.

Your HVAC system can show several signs that it's broken or needs maintenance. A lessened cooling effect can mean your AC is low on refrigerant. This situation can cause coils to freeze or the system to be unable to keep up during hot weather.

Other problems with operation can stem from a nonworking thermostat or dirty coils. Low airflow is another signal that your AC needs care, which could mean a broken fan or just a dirty air filter.

Home warranties often cover HVAC repairs or replacements. However, your home warranty plan must specifically include HVAC. Some plans also distinguish between heating and air conditioning, so it's important to understand your coverage details. In some cases, HVAC is part of a plan that includes several home systems, while some home warranty companies offer various HVAC services as add-ons.

Why You Can Trust Us: 17 HVAC Companies Researched

At U.S. News & World Report, we rank the Best Hospitals, Best Colleges, and Best Cars to guide readers through some of life’s most complicated decisions. Our 360 Reviews team draws on this same unbiased approach to rate the products that you use every day. To build our ratings, we researched more than 17 HVAC companies and analyzed 9 reviews. Our 360 Reviews team does not take samples, gifts, or loans of products or services we review. All sample products provided for review are donated after review. In addition, we maintain a separate business team that has no influence over our methodology or recommendations.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.