Your Guide to How to Start an HVAC Business

Starting your own HVAC business is a major step toward independence, but it’s also a smart investment in an essential industry. HVAC services are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, and that demand is only growing as climate concerns and indoor air quality continue to make headlines.

Whether you’re a licensed HVAC technician, a skilled tradesperson looking for greater flexibility, or an entrepreneur exploring service-based business opportunities, this guide will walk you through the key steps to launching your own HVAC business. Along the way, it will also explain how franchising with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning can help you achieve your goals.

What’s included in this article?

Starting a Small Business: Why HVAC?
Who Should Start an HVAC Business?
Understanding the HVAC Industry
Crafting Your HVAC Business Plan
- Essential Elements of an HVAC Business Plan
- Financial Planning for New Business Owners
Building a Skilled Team of HVAC Professionals
Developing an Effective Marketing Strategy
- Strategies for Reaching New Customers
- Pricing Strategy and Customer Retention
Offering Comprehensive HVAC Services
Why Consider Franchising with One Hour?
- What Makes One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning Different?
Ready to Learn More?

Starting a Small Business: Why HVAC?

People start their own HVAC business for many reasons, but most share common goals:

Use their experience to build something of their own: HVAC contractors and technicians often reach a point in their careers when they want to take control of their future, leveraging their HVAC certifications or know-how.
Create a legacy for their family: Owning a business can be a long-term opportunity to build wealth and pass something on to the next generation.
Gain more flexibility and autonomy: Self-employment gives many business owners the chance to build a schedule and a life that works for them.
Provide vital services to their community: HVAC businesses keep homes and businesses comfortable and safe, supporting indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Franchising Can Help You Join the HVAC Industry

When you franchise with One Hour, you can hit the ground running. You gain access to our established systems, name recognition, and national support – without having to start your HVAC business completely from scratch.

Is the HVAC industry secure? Learn more >

Who Should Start an HVAC Business?

An HVAC business can be a great fit for a wide range of people:

HVAC technicians and contractors who are ready to be their own boss.
Entrepreneurs looking for an investment in a high-demand industry.
Service business owners who already operate a plumbing, electrical, or other home services company and want to expand into HVAC.
Existing HVAC business owners who are looking to grow, add structure, or improve their marketing and operations, taking their own HVAC business to the next level.

One Hour Franchise Owners Come from All Backgrounds

From launching your very first HVAC company to scaling an existing one, One Hour offers tools, training, and support to help you move forward faster. Our franchise owners come from a wide range of backgrounds. Whether you are experienced in the industry or looking for a new opportunity, we provide the tools and support you need to get started and grow your business.

Align your skills & interests – discover which franchise opportunity is right for you >

Understanding the HVAC Industry

Skilled professionals in the trades are in demand and that includes HVAC specialists. Now is a great time to position yourself as a trusted provider in your area.

Can You Start a Profitable HVAC Business?

The HVAC industry is strong and resilient. According to IBISWorld, the HVAC services market continues to grow year over year, driven by:

Aging infrastructure in homes and commercial properties
The rise of energy-efficient systems
Increasing awareness of indoor air quality
Extreme weather events prompting the need for reliable heating and cooling

A successful HVAC company needs more than technical knowledge. You’ll need to make smart decisions about business formation, legal requirements, pricing, and day-to-day operations.

From financial considerations like startup costs and licensing to your business structure and determining your service offerings, there is a lot to consider when establishing your HVAC business.

How Franchising Helps

One Hour gives you a playbook and expert guidance for structuring and running your business – from setup to customer acquisition. You’ll also gain access to ongoing training, so you never have to navigate challenges alone.

Franchising with One Hour provides you with name recognition, buying power, and built-in marketing strategies that can help you compete more effectively in your local market. Instead of building a business model from scratch, you can tap into an established franchise model.

Franchising can help you embrace the future of smart home comfort. Learn more >

Financial Considerations and Startup Costs

It is crucial to estimate the upfront costs before starting an HVAC business. Startup costs vary but often include:

HVAC business startup fees, including business licenses and formation and HVAC licenses
Business insurance, liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and legal fees
HVAC tools, vehicles, and equipment
HVAC marketing and branding, including a marketing plan
Hiring and payroll

Manage Startup Costs by Franchising

Franchising can offer cost savings compared to starting an independent HVAC business. You have the power of a national brand and buying network behind you, and you can leverage our established relationships for your business.

Franchisees can benefit from exclusive discounts through BuyMax, our buying network that helps reduce the cost of supplies, vehicles, uniforms, and more. You’ll also receive help with financial planning and insights on where to invest for growth.

Check out the initial investment information for a One Hour franchise >

Technology in the HVAC Industry

Modern HVAC businesses are powered by more than tools and trucks. From scheduling and dispatch software to digital marketing and online review platforms, today’s business owners need to be tech-savvy – or partner with someone who is.

Consumers expect prompt communication, online booking, automated reminders, and seamless follow-ups. Investing in the right technology helps streamline your operations, reduce missed appointments, and improve the customer experience.

Beyond customer service, HVAC business owners also use technology for back-end operations like inventory management, employee scheduling, payroll processing, and financial reporting.

Having the right systems in place allows you to focus more on leading your business and less on juggling administrative tasks.

How Franchising Helps You Stay Ahead with Technology

One Hour franchise owners utilize industry-leading tools like ServiceTitan to manage their operations efficiently. This includes integrated scheduling, invoicing, customer communication, and business performance dashboards all in one platform.

You don’t need to vet dozens of vendors or build your system from the ground up. One Hour has already done the work for you, so you can focus on what matters most: running your business.

Crafting Your HVAC Business Plan

A business plan is crucial for mapping out each stage of your new venture. From pre-launch tasks to daily operations and expansion goals, your business plan should consider all aspects of your company as well as the market, competition, and steps necessary to grow. A strong business plan can also be vital for securing a business loan or attracting investors.

Essential Elements of an HVAC Business Plan

A comprehensive HVAC business plan should include:

Executive summary
Market research and competitive analysis, including target markets and potential customers
Financial projections
Marketing plan
Team structure
Opportunities to grow and scale

Tap Into an Existing Franchise Business Model

With One Hour, you won’t build your business plan in isolation. We provide industry insights and strategic coaching to help you develop a realistic and effective roadmap. Our business model is designed to guide new and experienced owners alike.

Discover the steps to ownership for an HVAC franchise >

Financial Planning for New Business Owners

From getting your doors open to keeping the lights on, strategic financial planning is a must for any business. It is also important to constantly monitor and adapt your financial plan as you launch your business, overcome obstacles, and encounter unexpected challenges.

Your financial foundation should include:

Dedicated business bank account to separate your business from personal assets
Cash flow monitoring
Profit and loss statements
Profit forecasting
Smart business loan use and expense planning

How Franchising Helps

We can help you understand how to track KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), manage your books, and prepare for sustainable growth. If you’ve never owned a business or managed business finances before, you can learn the ropes with a supportive team.

How long does it take to launch an HVAC franchise? The answer might surprise you! >

Building a Skilled Team of HVAC Professionals

Hiring the right team is one of the most important steps in building a successful HVAC business. Your technicians are the face of your company – they interact with customers, perform the work, and directly impact the reputation and growth of your brand.

Who Makes a Great HVAC Technician?

Strong HVAC technicians bring a mix of technical skill and soft skills to the table. When hiring, look for candidates who demonstrate:

Certification and field experience: Whether through trade school, apprenticeships, or on-the-job experience, technicians should be comfortable with installation, maintenance, and repair work across a variety of systems.
Problem-solving ability: HVAC issues can be complex, so technicians need to diagnose problems accurately and recommend efficient solutions.
Customer service skills: Your team should be courteous, professional, and able to communicate clearly with homeowners and clients.
Punctuality and professionalism: Being on time, wearing a clean uniform, and respecting the customer’s property all reflect your company’s values.

Where to Find Quality Candidates

Trade schools and vocational programs: These institutions are often looking for employer partners and can be great sources for entry-level talent.
Industry job boards and online listings: General job boards and specialized HVAC job boards help you cast a wider net.
Referrals and word of mouth: Ask your professional network or current employees for recommendations.
Veterans and skilled labor programs: Many veterans have mechanical and leadership skills that transfer well to the HVAC industry.

Retaining Your Best Technicians

Once you’ve built a strong team, retention becomes a top priority. Losing good employees is costly and disruptive. Consider the following:

Offer competitive pay and benefits: Stay in line with local market rates and look for ways to differentiate with perks or bonus opportunities.
Provide clear career growth paths: Let technicians know there’s room to advance, whether that means senior roles, specialization, or even business leadership opportunities.
Create a positive company culture: Respect, communication, and a sense of purpose go a long way in building loyalty.
Invest in ongoing training: The HVAC industry evolves quickly. Regular training helps your team stay current with systems, regulations, and best practices.

How Franchising with One Hour Helps You Hire & Retain Top Talent

When you franchise with One Hour, you gain access to tools and resources to help improve your hiring and retention.

Customizable hiring templates: Save time and streamline your hiring with pre-built job descriptions tailored to the industry and access to industry-specific job boards.
Recruitment resources and support: Get advice from your Franchise Business Consultant (FBC) or fellow franchise owners on how to build your team effectively in your market.
Success Academy: Our in-house training platform provides both technical and soft skills training for your entire staff. You can keep your technicians up to date and better equip them to deliver high-quality service.
Culture of support and development: One Hour’s franchise network is built on shared knowledge. You can connect with other franchise owners to discuss staffing challenges and learn from their strategies.

With the right team and the backing of One Hour, you can deliver service that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations – building loyalty and a strong reputation in your community.

Learn more about finding the best employees for your HVAC business >

Developing an Effective Marketing Strategy

It’s not enough to start an HVAC business – you have to get the word out! An effective marketing strategy can be the key to unlock the full potential of your business and dominate in your market.

Strategies for Reaching New Customers

Marketing is critical for attracting new customers. A successful strategy should include:

Local SEO and online reviews
Google Ads and paid search
Digital marketing, including a strong website and social media presence
Vehicle branding, yard signs, business cards, and printed materials
Referral and loyalty programs for word-of-mouth referrals

Make the Most of Your Marketing Budget with a Franchise

As a One Hour franchisee, you receive access to a complete marketing toolkit – national brand campaigns, lead generation tools, and localized digital advertising strategies. Our marketing team helps you stand out from the competition and attract qualified leads.

Meet Will Harris and discover how a father/son team filled a need for HVAC services in their community >

Pricing Strategy and Customer Retention

To stay profitable, you need to price competitively while maintaining margins. You also want to keep customers coming back. When considering pricing strategies for your HVAC services, factor in:

Cost of materials, HVAC equipment, and labor
Competitive rates in your market
Long-term profit margins and cash flow
Package and maintenance plan pricing options

Happy customers are your best sales tool. Delivering great service and following up can lead to repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.

How Franchising Helps

As a franchise owner, you have the flexibility to establish pricing based on your market. Our team can help provide guidance on pricing models and service bundles. We also offer recurring revenue opportunities and customer retention tools, like the Comfort Club membership program. You can build long-term relationships with your customers to increase recurring revenue and help stabilize cash flow.

Learn more about how franchising unlocks buying power for small businesses >

Offering Comprehensive HVAC Services

Once all the pieces of your business are in place, delivering quality HVAC services becomes a top priority. From what you offer to how you do the job, your services can set your business apart in your market.

Maintaining Quality and Efficiency

High-quality service is essential for building trust and growing your business. This means:

Ensuring technicians stay up to date on training, certifications, HVAC systems, and tools
Committing to high-quality HVAC installation and repair processes
Investing in modern tools and diagnostic equipment
Maintaining service vehicles and clean branding
Focusing on customer experience and fast response times

How Franchising Helps

One Hour provides software systems for scheduling, reporting, and customer management through our partnership with ServiceTitan. You can deliver consistently excellent service to your customers and maintain quality communication. You’ll also have access to Success Academy training and best practices from across our franchise network.

Discover more benefits of owning an HVAC franchise >

Diversifying Your Service Offerings

As your business grows, offering a full range of services helps increase revenue and meet more customer needs. This can include:

Residential and commercial HVAC
Installation and repair
Preventative maintenance plans
Smart home system integrations
Ductless mini-splits and energy efficiency upgrades
Air purification and indoor air quality systems

From refrigeration and air conditioning to heat pumps and smart thermostats, the opportunities in the HVAC industry are vast. Depending on local licensing requirements, you can offer a wide range of services to customers in your market.

Multiple Revenue Streams Available with Franchising

Franchise owners receive ongoing training and operational support to confidently offer a range of services. We help you identify and implement additional revenue streams based on customer needs and market trends.

How do HVAC franchise owners make money? Learn more >

Expanding Your HVAC Business Over Time

Starting your HVAC business is just the beginning. Once you’re established in your local market, there are multiple ways to grow your business, increase revenue, and expand your impact.

Some HVAC business owners grow by increasing their service area or opening additional locations. Others grow by hiring more technicians and office staff to meet increasing demand.

You can also scale by adding new services, like duct cleaning, insulation, or energy audits, depending on your state’s licensing requirements.

How Franchising Helps You Scale Your Business

As a One Hour franchise owner, you’re never alone in making growth decisions. You’ll have access to operational benchmarks, peer performance comparisons, and the guidance of Franchise Business Consultants who know the ins and outs of growing within the brand. One Hour also offers territory expansion options and multi-unit ownership opportunities for franchisees who are ready to scale.

Unlock growth opportunities with One Hour and multi-unit franchise ownership >

Why Consider Franchising with One Hour?

Franchising can offer a faster, more supported path to HVAC business ownership. Here’s how One Hour can help:

Brand recognition: Consumers know and trust the One Hour name
Exclusive training: On-demand and in-person training for you and your team
Marketing support: National campaigns and local ad strategy guidance
Technology tools: CRM, scheduling, and business analytics tools to streamline your processes
Buying power: Discounted pricing on supplies, vehicles, and business essentials through BuyMax
Peer network: Join a community of fellow franchise owners who are there to help

Whether you’re starting fresh or converting your existing HVAC business, One Hour offers a platform designed for long-term growth.

Meet our franchise owners! Hear from real One Hour franchise owners on their business journey >

What Makes One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning Different?

There are several HVAC franchise opportunities available, but One Hour stands out for its comprehensive support, trusted name, and commitment to franchise owner success. Our brand is known for reliability, punctuality, and service excellence – values that are reflected in every franchise location.

In addition to training, technology, and buying power, One Hour offers a built-in culture of collaboration. Franchise owners across the country regularly share insights, tips, and best practices. You’ll be part of a community that lifts each other up, not a group of competitors.

One Hour also stands out for its integration with the broader Authority Brands network. If you’re interested in expanding into plumbing, electrical, or restoration services, you have access to additional franchise opportunities under the same umbrella. That means you can grow your business in a direction that makes sense for your goals, all while sticking with a brand family you know and trust.

Why is One Hour a top franchise opportunity? Find out now >

Ready to Learn More?

Starting an HVAC business takes drive, planning, and the right support. With One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Explore franchise opportunities with One Hour and find out how we can help you turn your HVAC knowledge, or your business ownership goals, into something bigger.

Ready to take the first step? Contact our team today >