Plumbing & HVAC Contractors Industry Overview

Excerpt from Plumbing & HVAC Contractors Report

Companies in this industry install and service plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning equipment. Major US companies include Comfort Systems USA, Dyn Specialty Contracting (a subsidiary of EMCOR Group), Rescue Rooter (owned by American Residential Services), and TDIndustries.

Competitive Landscape

Demand for services depends partly on new residential and commercial construction. Demand for maintenance and repair work on existing structures is also substantial. Profitability depends on the volume of work a company can acquire, since most costs are fixed. Larger companies may have a competitive advantage in winning projects that require both design work and installation and in serving businesses with facilities in multiple markets. Small companies can compete by specializing in individual markets and by focusing on customer service.

Products, Operations & Technology

HVAC contractors install and service furnaces, air conditioning (AC) units, and refrigeration systems, and the associated ductwork, pumps, and control units in residential and commercial buildings. Some shops fabricate their own sheet-metal ductwork. Technicians are trained on installation and repair but often specialize in one or the other.