How to Start a Heating & Air Conditioning Company

Starting a heating and air conditioning business can be a breeze.

Starting a heating and air conditioning company could be a lucrative, life-changing experience for someone with the talent, skills and dedication to make it a success. Sometimes, the hardest part of running a business is the first step. Following some basic tips can help get your heating and air conditioning company up and running smoothly.

Things You'll Need

• License
• Insurance
• Tools
• Vehicle

Instructions

1. Get licensed and insured. Many trade schools and institutes offer certification and licensing programs for heating and air conditioning, also referred to as HVAC. After completing such a program, you need to apply for and obtain a license from the state, city or municipality. Once licensed, you should make sure you have insurance for the business.

2. Procure the proper tools and equipment necessary for a successful HVAC business. You will need a van or vehicle to transport equipment and tools for the heating and air conditioning units you will be working on. You should not feel as if you have to purchase every single heating and air conditioning tool, but you should have the tools you will be working with and using the most.

3. Get experience. Experience can be gathered by working as an apprentice or by working for friends, family members or customers for a reduced cost or even for free. This experience will help prepare you for jobs you will do for your future customers, and it will give you an idea of the daily work running a business will entail.

4. Build your customer base. To run a successful business, you need a steady, loyal customer base. Advertising in local newspapers is a great idea, and it's cheaper than advertising on the radio or television. However, word-of-mouth referrals are the best advertising a businessman can ask for.

5. Accept payment. Nowadays, cash or check is not always the most desired or convenient method of payment for customers, who may wish to pay with a credit or debit card. It would be beneficial to set up a merchant account to accept payment in methods other than cash and check.

References

• Getting Started in the HVAC Business