As a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) business owner, it’s crucial to work with trustworthy distributors. You want to know you’re getting a competitive price from companies that stand behind their products. It’s also important to work with distributors who carry large quantities of high-quality equipment, so your wait time isn’t too long when a customer needs a new HVAC system.
In this blog, we’ll share a list of the top 30 HVAC industry distributors, as well as tips for choosing your company’s preferred distribution partners.
Top 30 HVACR Distributors
The top 30 HVAC distributors, according to survey data from Distribution Trends by ACHR News:
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How Do I Choose an HVAC Distributor for My Business?
Depending on your needs, you might go with one or multiple suppliers. Follow these steps to select the right distributors.
Step #1: Understand Your Needs
First, make a list of the products (heat pumps, air conditioners, thermostats, indoor air quality products, condensers, etc.) you’ll need from a distributor, including brands (Carrier, Trane, etc.) and quantities. If you plan to carry multiple brands, a distributor with a wider selection of HVAC products may be more convenient, as it allows you to simplify your procurement process by sourcing a variety of items from a single supplier.
Then, determine how frequently you’ll order. If you have warehouse space and plan to order large quantities, you may not need a distributor that ships immediately after receiving an order. But if you plan to order equipment and parts on a case-by-case basis, you should find a distributor with fast order fulfillment to keep your supply chain functional.
Step #2: Research Different Distributors
With a better understanding of your needs, research distributors to find the right fit. Look for distributors that have a good selection of HVAC products, competitive prices, and a reliable delivery service.
Research distributors online and read reviews, but also ask other HVAC professionals for recommendations. Evaluate the level of service and support provided by the distributor. Some may offer technical assistance and training for your staff. Consider whether they have a responsive customer service team that can assist you in case of issues or emergencies.
If you operate across multiple locations or regions, look for a distributor with a wide geographical coverage. This can minimize shipping costs, reduce delivery times, and ensure consistent access to HVAC products regardless of your location.
Also, consider how you’ll manage the distributors you choose to work with. For example, the ServiceTitan purchasing module allows users to reduce operating costs through a centralized purchasing system to manage POs, returns, and bills across multiple warehouse locations.
And to know when it’s time to order, ServiceTitan’s inventory management enables HVAC businesses to track inventory status in real time and replenish with ease by sending POs through their mobile app.
Field technicians can add materials to invoices, so your inventory-replenishment roster automatically updates to reflect the number of items needed in a given location. Ensuring materials and supplies are on hand for every job enhances customer satisfaction.
Step #3: Get Quotes
Once you identify potential distributors, request quotes from your top picks and a few backup options. Getting multiple quotes enables you to compare prices, terms, and services offered by different distributors. This may aid you in negotiation, too.
After receiving the quotes, thoroughly compare the pricing offered by each distributor. Take into account any bulk-purchase discounts, special promotions, or long-term contract pricing that may be available. The pricing you get from distributors informs the HVAC pricing you can offer to customers.
Step #4: Evaluate the Qualities of the Distributors
Don’t just go with the cheapest quote. Evaluate the quality of distributors to find the ones that align best with your company’s needs and values. If your business has sustainability goals, consider whether the distributor offers energy-efficient or environmentally friendly HVAC products, as well as whether their delivery methods and packaging minimize waste.
Ensure that any distributor you work with complies with all relevant industry and safety standards. HVAC products often come with specific regulatory requirements, so partnering with a distributor who is well-versed in these standards can help your business stay compliant and avoid potential problems.
Some distributors may offer value-added services, such as technical support or maintenance services. Assess whether these services align with your business requirements and can add value to your partnership with the distributor.
Some additional factors to consider when choosing an HVAC distributor are:
Location: Consider whether the distributor’s distribution center is conveniently located with respect to your business. A nearby distributor can provide faster access to products and potentially reduce shipping costs. A large distributor like Ferguson has locations in all 50 states. But Young Supply Co. only has locations in Michigan and Ohio. APR Supply Co. serves Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Hours of operation: If your HVAC business operates during non-standard hours or requires emergency support, a distributor with extended hours or 24/7 availability may be crucial.
Terms of payment: Evaluate the payment options, credit terms, and flexibility provided. A distributor with favorable payment terms can help improve your cash flow and financial stability.
Over to You
When selecting a distribution partner or partners, take into account not only your company’s immediate procurement needs, but also future plans to grow your HVAC business. You may want to add new locations, expand your product offerings, or grow your services list. Establishing a long-term partnership with a distributor network that has the capacity to grow with you proves beneficial as your business evolves.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive HVAC business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000+ contractors across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions related to HVAC distributors? Read on.
What Is the Largest HVAC Distributor?
According to survey data from Distribution Trends, which ranks top HVAC distributors by sales, Ferguson Enterprises LLC is the largest distributor, with more than $1 billion in gross sales last year (2022).
What Is the Difference Between an HVAC Distributor and an HVAC Company?
An HVAC company is an entity that provides HVAC services–including installation, maintenance, and repairs–to residential or commercial customers. HVAC companies often source their equipment and parts from HVAC distributors.
An HVAC distributor primarily supplies HVAC equipment, parts, and components to contractors, service providers, or businesses. They do not perform HVAC installation or maintenance services.
