HVAC and Plumbing Contractors Industry Profile

The US HVAC and plumbing contractors industry includes more than 90,000 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $160 billion. Major companies include Dyn Specialty Contracting (a subsidiary of EMCOR Group), Rescue Rooter (owned by American Residential Services), Southland Industries, and TD Industries.

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.

Plumbing contractors install bathroom and kitchen fixtures and the associated pipes in residential or commercial buildings, and may also install gas appliances and pipework.

HVAC and plumbing companies usually specialize in either commercial or residential segments, as the work differs fundamentally. Within both segments, revenues are further split between installation and maintenance; commercial companies ...