The U.S. HVAC services market is forecasted to increase in value from $25.6 billion in 2019 to $35.8 billion in 2030, according to the ACCA. Mechanic and installer jobs are also expected to increase by 13% from 2018 to 2028, much more than the average for all occupations. Industry growth is related to the uptick in new construction, ongoing climate change, the transition from gas heaters and storage units, and new energy efficiency standards.
As a result, the industry is undergoing a technological revolution to keep up with the demand of home buyers and builders for new installations – as well as the market for replacement and retrofitting. New solutions – especially in field service management – are driving efficiency, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction. Here are a few ways that field service technologies are optimizing HVAC firms' operations and output.
Bigger tickets.
Field service management (FSM) software can produce larger work orders by prompting techs to automatically address the customer request while also assessing the opportunity for additional equipment and/or service. Digital checklists can help techs identify opportunities for cross-selling and upselling. FSM software can also deliver proactive maintenance and predictive analytics, helping techs identify potential customer issues before they escalate and prompt timely work orders.
Faster service.
One of the primary ways HVAC companies can differentiate themselves from their competition is by providing attentive emergency service. Digital forms help customers quickly submit requests for urgent repairs. Digital scheduling helps dispatchers immediately respond, set-up new work orders, and route the available (and nearby) tech on demand. Digital work orders save time by providing techs with key details (not just the customer location) so techs arrive informed and ready to deliver excellent service.
Less paperwork.
Documentation is an essential part of the job for an HVAC technician. From completing diagnostic sheets to invoicing, paper forms may be omnipresent in a tech's daily workflows. Digital forms help HVAC firms better manage project information, document customer approval, invoice customers, and obtain customer feedback. Techs can complete forms on their mobile devices and include photos, e-signatures, audio clips, and other document types to verify the "before" vs. "after". Techs can also submit their timesheets electronically by clocking in/out on their mobile devices.
Smarter inventory processes.
As technicians typically rely on a wide range of tools like wire strippers, multimeters, reciprocating saws, hammers, and wrenches to perform their work, even one tool being missing can extend the service call.
With field service software's inventory capabilities, all tools of the trade and system parts can be fitted with QR code or barcode stickers. Digitally scanning these stickers eliminates manual entry mistakes and helps all stock remain accounted for (both before and after a project's completion). Managers can be electronically alerted to missing or damaged items and order new (or repair existing) equipment.
Better engagement.
With on-demand tools to communicate with office employees and administrators, HVAC technicians can be more productive and effectively address any obstacles to project completion. Digital messaging capabilities enable techs to send/receive messages and share project updates, communicate emerging issues, and request assistance. Additional support, tools, and/or parts may be quickly made available by other techs – enabling the point of contact to stay on-site and timelines to likely stay on-track.
Accelerated cash flow.
HVAC technicians can also use mobile payment technology to bring the point-of-sale to the customer and accept payments after service completion. Digital payment tools provides customers with a convenient way to pay while accelerating cash flow.
Greater satisfaction and success.
By digitizing various workflows, FSM software empowers HVAC firms to optimize resource allocation and enhance overall productivity. Through real-time visibility into field activities and workforce analytics, HVAC leaders can improve the delivery of service, increasing their top and bottom lines.
See how TeamWherx® can help your hvac company and automate workflows to help drive greater revenue:
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About the author : Actsoft Team
Actsoft’s team of industry experts have their fingers on the business world’s pulse. It’s our mission to deliver the latest news to keep you and your leaders on top of the latest trends, further helping you to excel and exceed your goals.
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