When Temperatures Rise, Radio Delivers

Author: Victor Texcucano, Content Coordinator, RAB

We’re halfway through 2026, and that can only mean one thing: summer is around the corner. Consumers will be searching for shelter from summer temperatures, so now is a perfect time for HVAC businesses to reach out to consumers in their area.

Summer heat in the U.S. can be relentless. Aside from a quick dip in the pool, the best relief is often a cool, air-conditioned home. That is why it is important to hire an HVAC technician to ensure your system is ready for the season. Homeowners in warm climates know how essential a dependable HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system is when temperatures climb above 90 degrees.

The U.S. HVAC industry is expected to grow rapidly in 2026. Jobber data reports the industry is projected to reach $33.9 billion this year. As of January 2026, there are more than 624,000 HVAC technicians in the U.S. The HVAC contractor industry revenue is a whopping $159.4 billion.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that 76 million occupied homes (64% of total homes) use central air-conditioning equipment. Another 13 million homes (11% of the total) use heat pumps for heating or cooling.

In Q4 2025, Housecall Pro data shows a significant 33.4% of HVAC industry revenue was from repairs, indicating that consumers aren’t always after the latest equipment. They’re most concerned about having a functional HVAC system.

HVAC repairs or replacements are pricey. HVAC businesses should stay top-of-mind with homeowners. Homeowners need to stay up to date on repairs and tackle minor HVAC maintenance issues before they become a major problem.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC wholesale and equipment prices remain elevated. Higher system replacement costs will likely influence homeowner decision-makers to choose repairs over full replacement.

However, changes by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mean certain refrigerants (R-410A) will soon be phased out. The replacement coolants, known as A2L refrigerants, are more environmentally friendly, but come with new requirements.

Existing R-410A systems can still be serviced, but only while the supply runs out. Unfortunately, R-410A systems cannot be retrofitted to use both R-410A and A2L refrigerants, so those systems will need to be replaced eventually. This change will have an impact on homeowners whose current HVAC systems are aging. It is an important message that local HVAC business should communicate to potential and current clients before their HVAC system dies.

With its strong local presence and loyal listeners in their communities, radio is an exceptional way for HVAC businesses to reach customers in their area and let them know of these changes to the industry.

What do homeowners look for when investigating HVAC businesses? According to a myCLEARopinion Insights Hub survey, contractor reputation topped the list for homeowners. While warranty and equipment pricing came in immediately after reputation, financing terms was the least important, surprisingly.

For businesses, these are important insights to include in their marketing campaigns. Customer testimonials can serve as a method to deliver positive reputation points. Broadcast radio, with its trusted voice in the community, can help deliver this message. And while competitive companies will lead with financing options during these times, equipment and service warranty followed by pricing is what consumers want to know. Messaging should also include words like “standing by their service or product” will have greater resonance.

Per MRI-Simmons data, 62% of consumers who listen to AM/FM radio have completed any home improvement projects in their home and an additional 60% of radio listeners have hired an HVAC technician in the past year. Six in ten radio listeners have an AC system to cool their home. Radio listeners are a “hot” and engaged audience for these businesses to reach out to.

With summer incoming, it is important for consumers to know of a local HVAC business is there in case their HVAC system fails. Consumers will call a business that is top of mind.

Inside one’s home, one should be as comfortable as possible and HVAC professionals can help make sure that remains the case. Businesses that offer these services should use radio to promote the services offered within the local community. When it’s hot outside, consumers will want to remain cool and connect with a business they are aware of and can rely on. consumers know.