The following are a few best practices that foster collaboration between HVAC/R contractors and manufacturers and build success for years to come.

Increase Skills, Increase Business

Contractors who receive regular training from manufacturers and industry associations stay competitive in the market and at the top of their game with customers. Ongoing education ensures contractors are equipped and understand the latest product offerings from manufacturers as well as any changing industry regulations. Training means contractors are prepared to advise their customers better and position themselves as a trusted resource while strengthening their reputation.

For example, Rheem created Innovation Learning Centers (ILCs)—immersive, state-of-the-art learning hubs—for HVAC/R technicians, contractors, distributors, and other industry professionals to receive hands-on education tailored to regional needs. By prioritizing education and investing in the future of its industry, Rheem believes in equipping professionals with the skills to succeed and offers a variety of training sessions at its 23 ILCs worldwide.

Additionally, these learning spaces create a valuable opportunity for newcomers to get hands-on experience, as manufacturers and contractors work together to grow the next generation of skilled tradespeople. And while training facilities listen to the contractor’s needs through in-person, interactive sessions, manufacturers' web-based training opportunities and downloadable materials can also help capture the attention of aspiring trade professionals. In fact, for contractors with limited access to in-person training, web-based materials and support are essential tools for growth.

Leverage Loyalty Programs

Between ever-evolving regulations, innovations, and high customer demand, staying on top of an HVAC/R business can be a challenge. Loyalty programs offer support to contractors and build on key learnings from past decades to grow and equip their businesses for a successful future.

Loyalty programs, such as Rheem Pro Partner, offer contractors consumer experience, training, incentives, and marketing and business support. Contractors who take advantage of these programs can gain professional training in everything from technical product assistance to business courses on sales and leadership. Loyalty programs offer another touch point to help contractors stay informed on regulatory shifts and other industry changes.

Showcase Smart Solutions

With the drive toward decarbonization and growing demand for eco-friendly solutions, contractors will likely install more sustainable heating and cooling systems going forward. This is another example of how loyalty programs and a strong partnership between a contractor and manufacturer can help increase each other’s profits.

Decarbonization starts with equipment manufactured for a sustainable future. Innovative solutions need to be created and offered across heating and cooling to help customers use less energy and save money.

Contractors need to be well-versed in the portfolio of sustainable solutions and able to communicate the benefits of energy-efficient offerings to the end user, including the financial benefits and incentives available. Contractors should also communicate what they hear in the field with manufacturers, so that they can use these insights to improve upon and engineer future-focused equipment that meets the needs of customers.  

Additionally, contractors need to be up to speed on the phase-out of older equipment, such as R-410A refrigerant, and the greater shift away from carbon energy sources and toward electrification. Manufacturer training can help contractors stay ahead of these industry changes.

Looking Toward The Next 100 Years

While technology within products and the tools we have to support customers have changed dramatically, things like the fundamentals of heat transfer, a commitment to quality, and serving customers with integrity are timeless.

What will the next 100 years hold? Only time will tell. But it’s safe to assume that the future of manufacturing will continue to place greater emphasis on training, sustainability, and supporting its partners in the field.

For manufacturing companies that have witnessed a century of progress and transformation firsthand, this experience, combined with deep industry knowledge and strong professional relationships with contracting partners, creates a powerful foundation for continued success for all those in the industry.