Top HVAC trends in 2015: What industry insiders tell us about the future of HVAC

Industry experts reveal how HVAC contractors and service businesses can take advantage of this year’s newest technologies and research findings to make 2015 their best year yet.

By Joanna Rotter, MSI Data June 26, 2015

2015 started off with a bang for the HVAC industry with the biggest ever AHR Expo in January. Since then, we’ve been hearing plenty about the newest products and trends taking over the industry. How will Internet of Things (IoT) shape how equipment communicates across other equipment and to manufactures? How will ever-shifting energy standards affect how HVAC equipment manufacturers produce new equipment and what customers are looking for when they buy? 
If you’re running an HVAC contractor business, these are the sort of questions you need answers to in order to stay on top of your customers’ wants and compete in the the ever-shifting, ever-more demanding HVAC service sphere. 
After scouring the Web for the top industry executive resources for tips to try and trends to watch out for in 2015, here’s what we came up with:
 
HVAC will get smarter

There’s more smart technology than ever and HVAC is a leading industry in the movement. Smart thermostat technology, smart equipment integration, and IoT technology allows HVAC contractors to automate much of their sales and service processes, giving managers more time to leverage the financial benefits of effective asset management. 
And not only are the machines and controls getting smarter, almost everything is getting smarter. Smarter technology will be taking center stage this year as everyone continues to battle for efficiency. There are more points of data than ever, allowing for better measurement via big data and analytics. So while customers are looking for smarter equipment, HVAC contractors are also finding smart technology-driven ways to manage their businesses.
 
HVAC businesses are on the lookout for connected, multifaceted software to manage their business processes

Contractors are always on the lookout for simple-to-use, all-in-one software solutions that make the job of delivering indoor comfort easier and more effective. Contractors who ignore new technology do so at their own peril. While finding the perfect software to manage your HVAC contractor business is not a new theme in 2015, this year it’s crucial for service businesses to adopt strong mobile solutions in order to get ahead.
 
Construction will continue to recover, which will lead to growth in new HVAC system

Installations with an increase in new building construction inherently comes an increase in new HVAC unit installation. In both residential and non-residential, HVAC equipment installation will be on the rise in 2015: 

  • Non-residential: The U.S. Commerce Dept. reports that construction spending for nonresidential projects through November 2014 rose 4.2% from the year before, with lodging, office, commercial and sewage/waste disposal construction rising 11.3%, 14.7%, 8.4% and 13.6%, respectively.
  • Residential: After a yearlong study of its role in Residential HVAC, ASHRAE announced a new emphasis on residential, the effects of which will take form as 2015 progresses.

HVAC maintenance and service will become more efficient through mobile

Some of the most common and pressing included those that feature how HVAC maintenance will become more efficient and service more personal. Continued product innovation and improved processes in the HVAC maintenance field will yield some exciting new gains in unit efficiency and success of preventative maintenance programs.

Companies that can specialize in these maintenance technologies are well positioned for growth as these technologies begin to dominate the commercial HVAC landscape. As HVAC units become more complex, establishing regular preventive maintenance programs with technicians who understand how to service them will become more important. Industry experts and research firms are finding that technology and mobile apps are driving successful service programs in 2015. 

Looking ahead

As the construction industry continues to recover, HVAC needs to keep up with the demand for new unit installations and efficient maintenance programs. Adopting the latest technology and advancements in mobile is one way to make your service team more productive. Mobility enables timely information delivery, more accurate dispatch to the field, stronger profits per visit, and increased worker safety. Take advantage of today’s opportunity in service by using the most advanced technology to provide the best service for your customers.
 
Joanna Rotter is the content marketing manager at MSI Data. This article originally appeared on MSI Data Blog. MSI Data is a CFE Media content partner. Edited by Joy Chang, CFE Media, jchang@cfemedia.com