Watsco, one of the industry’s largest HVAC distributor’s, serving over 125,000 contractors and installers through over 692 locations in the US, announced 3Q 2026 earnings on October 27. Watsco's quarter reflected an improving North American HVAC replacement market, healthy residential construction demand, growing digital engagement, and strategic expansion into plumbing … [Read more...] about Watsco’s HVAC Rebound Gains Traction and Signals a Healthier 2027
Industry News
Are We Underpricing Skilled HVAC/R Labor in Today’s Market?
HVAC/R may have a valuation problem as much as a labor shortage. Hourly rates obscure the economic value of fast, accurate diagnosis, avoided downtime and knowledge built over decades. Contractors, manufacturers and customers should measure outcomes, reward technical expertise, transfer veteran knowledge and build careers worth choosing. Maybe the HVAC/R industry doesn't have … [Read more...] about Are We Underpricing Skilled HVAC/R Labor in Today’s Market?
HVAC Distributors – Before You Sell, Ask Two Questions?
TL;DR: Independent HVAC distributors should judge consolidation by one test: will a buyer strengthen or weaken customer intimacy? Mapping the value chain, identifying services customers need, and testing a buyer’s record, local decision rights, and investment commitments can reveal whether a deal preserves trust and creates mutual value—or destroys it. Watsco’s agreement to … [Read more...] about HVAC Distributors – Before You Sell, Ask Two Questions?
The AI Transition Is Moving Fast. Here Is How to Protect Your HVAC Business
Every major technology shift in history gave people time to adjust. Electricity took decades to reach most American homes. Artificial intelligence, or AI, is moving through the economy in less than ten years. That speed is the real risk, and it reaches further than most contractors expect. Why This Change Is Different Bill Gates wrote in August 2026 that we are entering "one … [Read more...] about The AI Transition Is Moving Fast. Here Is How to Protect Your HVAC Business
Ricardo Bristotti to Lead Nidec’s Global Appliance Platform
Nidec Global Appliance (GA), a business platform of Nidec and owner of the Embraco HVAC&R solutions brand, announced Ricardo Bristotti as its new president. Bristotti takes on the leadership to drive the next phase of growth and strengthen GA’s global portfolio. For the last 15 years, Ricardo has built a career spanning both the appliance and industrial segments, … [Read more...] about Ricardo Bristotti to Lead Nidec’s Global Appliance Platform
Home Depot’s HVAC/R Strategy Is Getting Bigger
A few months ago, I wrote about Home Depot’s acquisition of Mingledorff’s and what it could mean for the future of HVAC/R distribution. Now we have another piece of the puzzle. This week, SRS Distribution announced its agreement to acquire Lohmiller & Co., a Denver-based HVAC/R distributor with four Colorado locations and approximately 220 employees. SRS, of course, … [Read more...] about Home Depot’s HVAC/R Strategy Is Getting Bigger
Women in HVACR Announces Breakout Speakers for Annual Conference
Women in HVACR (WHVACR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration trades, announces Carrie Fraser, Bryce Batts and Michelle Myers as three of its breakout speakers for the 2026 annual conference, Built for Speed. The three sessions will provide attendees with practical guidance on leading through … [Read more...] about Women in HVACR Announces Breakout Speakers for Annual Conference
