There has been lots of conversation regarding AI in the HVACR channel over the past few years. It started with the launch of ChatGPT and has gained topical steam since then. Many conversations, articles, seminars. Some have taken the next step to subscribing to ChatGPT, Perplexity and Claude as well as using these, and CoPilot, for research (and some for writing, even if for drafts only). People within your company are probably using functional tools that are subscription-based, or free, for graphical design, grammar, transcription and more.
“ERP” systems tout functionality to improve pricing, inventory management, warehousing and more. There are emerging companies offering HVACR-specific tools to improve eCommerce, quotations, sales order entry, and more.
Lots of ideas, some movement, lots of opportunities. In our conversations with distributors, they are viewing AI as a tool to improve productivity, streamline processes, and support front-line sales. Given that 2025 is about productivity and share to drive profitability, implementing AI-driven tools can provide a competitive edge.
HVACRTrends is sponsoring a multi-industry survey being conducted by Flow RMS to gain greater insights into manufacturer, distributor, and rep interest, and utilization, of AI. According to Curtis Seare, CEO of Flow RMS, 2025 will be the Year of AI.
Curtis shares his thoughts and how you can participate in the survey. (Aside from getting an advance copy of the report, if there are enough responses from the HVACR industry, Curtis and I will commit to a webinar for survey respondents.)
2025: The Year of AI for Reps, Distributors, and Manufacturers
In the HVAC industry, 2025 will be the year when artificial intelligence (AI) transitions from a forward-looking concept to a defining force for reps, distributors, and manufacturers.
As CEO of Flow RMS, I’ve watched AI evolve from a niche experiment into a critical driver of business performance. Those who fail to embrace it risk falling behind. To help guide you, we’re launching the 2025 Manufacturing Industry Survey on AI in association with hvactrends.com. By participating, you’ll gain early access to a comprehensive report designed to prepare you for an AI-driven future.
Why 2025 Matters
If you’ve been wondering when AI will genuinely impact your day-to-day operations, that moment has arrived. In 2025, AI won’t just influence your work—it will determine who thrives and who struggles. Tools that once seemed complex and expensive are now more accessible, integrated, and user-friendly, already transforming data entry, quoting, marketing, order tracking, and more. This isn’t just a subtle improvement—it’s a sweeping change reshaping how the HVAC industry operates.
For reps in particular, embracing AI is now urgent. You stand at the center of supply chains, customer relationships, and market insights. With the right AI tools, you can eliminate costly busywork, streamline commission reconciliations, and unlock customer behavior insights that were once hidden. This is not merely about keeping pace; it’s about setting yourself apart in a marketplace where speed, accuracy, and foresight matter more than ever.
About the Survey
The 2025 Manufacturing Industry Survey on AI is designed for everyone in the HVAC ecosystem, from reps and distributors to manufacturers. Over the years, Flow RMS has tested AI solutions, tracked industry trends, and helped clients leverage emerging technologies. Now, we want to share that knowledge and encourage a wider industry discussion. By participating, you’ll help shape a resource that provides actionable, real-world guidance.
What the Survey Explores
Our survey dives deep into current AI usage and perceptions. How often are you using AI—daily, occasionally, or never? Which aspects benefit most—CRM optimization, competitor research, content creation, digital marketing, video strategies, quoting, or analytics? By identifying where AI creates real value, we can help you decide where to invest time and resources.
We’ll also address common roadblocks. Is cost a concern? Worried about security, technical know-how, or internal pushback? Understanding these obstacles will help us propose practical frameworks to overcome them.
The survey also looks to the future. How do you expect AI to shape the industry over the next three to five years? Will it simply streamline efficiencies, or will it completely redefine business models? Your input will help us chart a roadmap so you can move proactively, not reactively.
Early Access to the Final Report
After analyzing the data, we’ll deliver a report that’s more than just statistics. Participants get early access to expert insights, case studies, and concrete recommendations. We’ll highlight success stories, show how to break through adoption barriers, and provide step-by-step guidance for new adopters. For reps especially, the report will reveal which AI strategies industry peers have found most effective—and how they’re using them to drive measurable results.
How This Knowledge Shapes Strategy
These insights will help you create a focused AI strategy. Instead of guessing where to deploy AI, you’ll know exactly where it’s making a proven difference. You’ll learn which challenges deserve your immediate attention—be it training, data security, or platform selection. Equipped with benchmarks and best practices, you’ll face 2025 with confidence.
Don’t Get Left Behind—Take the 5-Minute Survey
As 2025 approaches, our industry will change dramatically. Those who understand and embrace AI will lead, while others play catch-up.
Don’t wait. Investing five minutes in the survey today ensures you’ll be among the first to access the 2025 Report and stay ahead of the curve. Your participation will enrich the final resource—and give you a vital competitive edge.
Conclusion
The future is now. By 2025, AI will be at the heart of every successful HVAC rep’s strategy. At Flow RMS, we’re committed to helping you navigate this shift. Take the survey, gain insights, and position yourself at the forefront of an industry transforming itself through AI. The year of AI for HVAC reps is upon us—don’t miss your chance to lead.
And if you are interested in step-by-step approach to exploring AI within your organization, give us a call.
