FieldAware Mobile app from FieldAware.

The rapid increase in the use of iPhones, iPads, and countless mobile devices has had a major affect on HVAC products and technologies that enable homeowners to control temperature, humidity, and energy consumption in their homes from anywhere at any time of day.

Fleet management can be challenging for HVAC contractors, which often have a number of service vans and trucks with no dedicated staff to oversee them. Fortunately, new Internet-based software programs and tools make it much easier for contractors to access and update records and perform other fleet management tasks.

Technology can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, trying to keep up with changing technology can be a never-ending battle that consumes your time and budget. On the other hand, not bothering to keep up with technology can hurt a business. So what do HVAC contractors see as tech trends in the next year?

Most contractors have already given their technicians some type of basic mobile device — often a cell phone or two-way radio — while others have invested in total mobile solutions that include tablet PCs and portable printers. With the cost of mobile technology decreasing, now may be the perfect time to see if it makes sense to go mobile.

While there are many wireless devices that field personnel use to stay in touch with other people and access information, it seems that the most popular device remains the cell phone.

As more and more consumers are purchasing smartphones and tablets for both business and personal use, more software applications are being developed specifically for these devices. One company that has decided to focus solely on designing mobile applications for the HVAC industry is Carmel Software Corp.