In a survey of more than 1,500 homeowners conducted by Emerson Climate Technologies Inc. late last year, a high percentage of consumers showed continued interest in potential energy savings as a major purchase criterion when replacing an existing HVAC system.
Gas prices across the nation have been on a steep upward trend, and the end of price hikes is not yet in sight. From mid-February to the first week in March, national average gas prices rose $0.33. By the middle of March, AAA reported that the national average price for a gallon of regular gas was approximately $3.553 and diesel was $3.93.
As a contractor, it can be tough to branch out from what you know and already do best. But that’s exactly what Rich Imfeld and his father, Dick, have had to do for their company, IC Refrigeration. In this recessionary environment, Rich said, “You either adapt or die.”
Distributors who made it through 2009 can congratulate themselves on surviving one of the most difficult years that HVACR wholesale distribution has endured in a long time. And while business is not back to pre-recession levels, the outlook is definitely improving.
The economic conditions of the last few years have been tough for HVAC contractors. While some economic indicators point to a modest recovery underway, contractors may need a little more convincing, as evidenced by the Contractor Comfort Index (CCI), which decreased in the months of December and January before rising a bit in February.
Contractors attending this year’s Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) conference had a lot of burning issues on their minds concerning the HVAC industry. Thanks to the much-anticipated CEO Forum that is held at the conference every year, attendees had the opportunity to ask manufacturing leaders about those issues that directly affect their livelihoods.
The last few years have been challenging for HVACR contractors, the poor economy has resulted in financial stress, and recent federal legislation has caused concern. Even with these recent difficulties, there are numerous reasons to be hopeful, said Paul Stalknecht, president and CEO, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
The HVAC trade has sounded off on its 2011 predictions - and it is overwhelmingly good. That is, according to 140 respondents to a recent poll at Linkedin.com, who were asked what they saw in their crystal ball for 2011. The HVAC trade - in particular, contractors - are very keen on a business uptick in 2011.
Contractors who keep both their employees and customers satisfied have found that a family feeling can improve their odds. In these cases, the goodwill comes from something other than a dollar sign, and it is widespread among this year’s Best Contractor to Work For winners.
At Cool Check Air Conditioning Ltd., The NEWS' Best Contractor to Work For in Canada, there’s a definite feeling of family. With a total of 15 employees, this Toronto-area commercial contractor is able to nurture both its employees and its customers.
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