If you’re in the HVAC business, you’ve probably already felt it: equipment costs are rising, supply chains are strained, and customers are wondering why systems are suddenly more expensive. That’s the impact of a fresh wave of tariffs under the 2025 Trump administration, many of which affect materials and components commonly used in HVAC systems, particularly those imported from countries like China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Japan.
But, despite the difficulties these changes present, they also offer a special opportunity. With the right tools and strategy, like the Premier Program, HVAC contractors can not only adapt but thrive.
Tariffs Are Up, But So Is HVAC Demand
New tariffs now impose import duties as high as 46% on some equipment and materials, according to FacilitiesDive, and are pushing manufacturers to reevaluate where and how they source components. Some analysts estimate this could raise HVAC equipment prices by 20% to 40%.
Cooling and heating equipment, which rely heavily on imported metals like steel and aluminum as well as electronic components such as compressors, control boards, and sensors, are expected to see some of the sharpest cost increases under the new tariffs.
However, demand isn’t going anywhere, according to MarketsandMarkets. In fact, it’s rising. Driven by extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and increasing interest in energy efficiency, both residential and commercial customers are upgrading their systems at record rates.
Contractors Are Rethinking How They Source and Sell
The cost pressures are driving the need for a smarter approach to both sourcing and service. For HVAC OEMs, this might result in more products produced or assembled in the U.S. or through more reliable supply chains. At the same time, contractors are reimagining how to meet the needs of cost-conscious customers.
Today’s buyers want affordability, reliability, and sustainability, and they want it without added complications or steep upfront costs. This shift calls for a new way to sell HVAC systems.
The Premier Program®: Designed for What’s Next
At Comfort Connect, we’ve built the Premier Program, a comprehensive solution that thrives in markets like this. It gives contractors a ready-made remedy for handling rising equipment costs, buyer hesitation, changing consumer behavior, and financing uncertainty, all in one flexible, customer-friendly package.
Here’s how it helps:
- No Large Upfront Cost for Homeowners – With customers paying a flat monthly fee, contractors can close more sales and protect margins—even as material costs rise.
- Maintenance and Repairs (Parts and Labor) Included – Lock in reliable recurring revenue while providing homeowners with hassle-free, budget-friendly service.
- Customer Retention Built In – Rather than chasing one-time installs, contractors build long-term customer relationships—ensuring future revenue opportunities with no extra marketing needed.
Why It Works in 2025
In an unpredictable market, like what the world is experiencing now, predictability is a selling point. By offering clarity on pricing and protection from surprise expenses, contractors can close deals faster and keep customers happy for years to come.
High-efficiency heating and cooling systems are already designed and built right here in the U.S. by major OEMs like Lennox, Carrier, and York. Even as tariffs disrupt imports, contractors have access to advanced, American-made equipment that delivers on both performance and energy savings. We are proud to partner with several of these top-tier manufacturers as a preferred vendor, making it easier than ever for contractors to pair high-tech systems with a customer-first business model that’s built for long-term value.
Turn Tariff Challenges Into Business Wins
Yes, tariffs are adding to costs. But that doesn’t mean you have to raise prices or lose customers. You can deliver a differentiated home comfort experience to your customers that helps you stands out from the competition in a crowded market.
By adding the Premier Program, you can:
- Stay competitive as costs change
- Provide premium, energy-saving systems at no upfront cost
- Create long-term customer relationships with comprehensive support
- Sell faster with less resistance and more transparency
What This Means for Your Business
Tariffs are changing the rules, but they’re not ending the game. If anything, 2025 is shaping up to be a year where HVAC contractors who offer value, flexibility, and reliability will have more chances than ever to grow.At Comfort Connect, we’re here to help you do just that. Let’s talk about how to bring the Premier Program to your business and future-proof your revenue, no matter what the market throws your way.
