8 Ways HVAC Business Owners Can Handle Price Shoppers

(and Get More Actual Business!)


8 Ways HVAC Business Owners Can Handle Price Shoppers

(and Get More Actual Business!)


In today’s highly competitive HVAC industry, price shoppers can pose a significant challenge to business owners. These are potential customers who prioritize cost above all else when selecting a service provider, often at the expense of quality, expertise, and reliability.

While it’s tempting to lower prices to win these customers over, doing so can hurt your bottom line and undervalue your services. As a result, it’s important for HVAC business owners to have a clear strategy in place to overcome price shoppers and communicate the value of their services effectively, especially when it comes to your most profitable installation services.

In this article, we’ll explore some effective tactics that you can use to attract and retain customers who prioritize quality over cost.

1. Overcoming HVAC Price Shoppers -
The Basics

a. Focus on value:
Instead of just focusing on price, emphasize the value that your services provide to customers. This can include highlighting your expertise, experience, and quality of work. By focusing on the value that your services offer, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and justify higher prices.

b. Build relationships:
Building strong relationships with customers can help to establish trust and loyalty, which can make them less likely to shop around for the lowest price.

Take the time to listen to your customers, understand their needs, and provide personalized solutions. This can help to establish a strong reputation and encourage repeat business.

c. Offer packages:
Offer packages that bundle several services together at a discounted rate. This can help to create a sense of value for customers and encourage them to choose your business over competitors who may offer lower prices for individual services.

d. Use marketing and branding effectively:
Use marketing and branding strategies to establish your business as a trusted, professional, and high-quality provider of HVAC services. This can help to create a strong brand image and make customers more willing to pay premium prices for your services.

e. Provide exceptional customer service:
Provide exceptional customer service, from the initial contact through to completion of the job. This can help to create a positive customer experience and encourage customers to return for future business.

f. Encourage onsite visits before giving HVAC quotes:
Offering a free onsite evaluation can be a great way to encourage potential customers to schedule a visit. This allows you to assess the job and provide an accurate quote or estimate, while also showing the customer that you are committed to providing quality service.

We’ll go into more detail about this critical point below, including scripts you can use.

PRO TIP: While some services have standard pricing that you can give over the phone, more complex and typically more profitable services — like a new AC purchase and installation — are the services you should insist require an onsite visit.

hvac process

By starting with implementing these basic strategies, HVAC business owners can develop habits that become part of a routine to overcome price shoppers…and establish your business as a trusted, valuable provider of HVAC services.

2. Create the "Expectation" at your Website of Onsite Visits as a First Step

An HVAC business owner’s website can be an effective tool to prime prospective customers into seeing the value of onsite visits prior to providing quotes. Here are some strategies that you can implement on your website:

a. Emphasize the importance of onsite visits:
On your website, make sure to emphasize the importance of onsite visits when providing accurate quotes for HVAC services.

Provide information on the benefits of having a professional visit the home to assess the system and provide a personalized quote.

b. Provide educational resources:
Use your website to provide educational resources, such as blog posts, videos, and FAQs, that explain the importance of onsite visits and what customers can expect during a visit.

This can help customers understand the value of the service and make them more likely to request an onsite visit.

PRO TIP: Priming the customer is a marketing strategy that involves preparing a customer to think about a product or service in a particular way, with the goal of influencing their decision-making process. By exposing customers to certain information, messages, or experiences (like an onsite visit prior to a quote), you can “prime” them to be more receptive to this and more likely to book an onsite visit.

c. Offer online scheduling:
Make it easy for customers to schedule an onsite visit directly from your website. Offer online scheduling tools that allow customers to choose a convenient time and date for the visit, which can help make the process more efficient and convenient.

d. Showcase positive customer reviews:
Highlight positive customer reviews that discuss the value of onsite visits and the quality of your services. This is easy to set up with the type of questions you can ask customers when requesting reviews.

This can help build trust and credibility with prospective customers, and show them the benefits of choosing your business for their HVAC needs.

e. Personalize the quote process:
Provide a personalized quote process that requires onsite visits. For example, you can offer a form on your website where customers can provide information about their system and request an onsite visit for a personalized quote.

This can help reinforce the importance of the service and demonstrate the value of working with a professional.

By implementing these strategies on your website, you can help prime prospective customers into seeing the value of onsite visits prior to providing quotes.

By emphasizing the importance of the service, providing educational resources, offering online scheduling, showcasing positive customer reviews, and personalizing the quote process, you can demonstrate the benefits of working with a professional and build trust and credibility with prospective customers.

3. Focus on the Complexity of HVAC Systems

One way HVAC business owners can encourage onsite visits before giving quotes or estimates is by explaining the importance of an onsite visit. Again, for installations of furnaces, heat pumps, AC’s and Boilers, this is a must.

HVAC systems can be complex and require a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of a problem and the best solution. Throw out a few technical terms and even the most thorough online searcher will likely go silent.

By explaining the importance of an onsite visit to potential customers, business owners can highlight the value of their services and build trust with customers.

hvac complexity

During the explanation, you can emphasize that without an onsite visit, they may miss important details that could impact the final cost of the job.

For example, there may be issues with the system’s ductwork or ventilation that are not visible from the outside, or the system may require repairs or upgrades beyond what the customer initially thought. By conducting an onsite visit, you can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the system and identify any potential issues that need to be addressed.

Additionally, an onsite visit allows you to discuss options with the customer and provide recommendations that are specific to their system and needs. This can help the customer make an informed decision about their HVAC system and feel confident that they are getting the best service possible.

PRO TIP: Customers are very insecure about large ticket purchases like a Heat Pump or new Furnace and they rarely come armed knowing exactly what they need. Assure them you’ll explain your recommendations in a non-technical way and that you’re not there to push one solution over another.

In summary, by explaining the importance of onsite visits, you can show potential customers that you are committed to providing quality service and solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. This can help build trust and confidence with customers, which can ultimately lead to more business and positive reviews.

4. Focus on the “Benefits” and Eliminating Unexpected Issues

hvac onsite visits

Frame the onsite visit in terms of benefits. Again, one major benefit of an onsite visit is the opportunity for the HVAC technician to inspect the system or equipment in person. This allows the HVAC experts to identify any issues or potential problems that may not be visible from the outside or in photos.

By inspecting the system or equipment in person, you can provide a more accurate quote or estimate for the job. You can also discuss the findings with the customer and explain the various options available for repairing or upgrading the system.

This can help the customer make an informed decision about their HVAC system and feel confident that they are getting the best service possible.

The average homeowner spends over $9,000 a year on home services, including maintenance and repairs.

The Globe and Mail 

Another benefit of an onsite visit is the opportunity to discuss options with the customer. By being able to see the system or equipment in person, as the experts, you can provide recommendations that are specific to the customer’s needs and system. This can help the customer make a decision that is right for them and their budget.

Finally, an onsite visit can help build trust and confidence with potential customers. By taking the time to inspect the system or equipment in person and discuss options with the customer, your team can show that they are committed to providing quality service and solutions. This can help build a positive reputation for the business and lead to more referrals and repeat business.

5. Increase Onsite Visit Success

a. Provide clear instructions for scheduling an onsite visit:
Provide clear instructions for scheduling an onsite visit, such as phone numbers, email addresses, or a scheduling tool at your website. Respond promptly to requests for onsite visits to show that you value the customer’s time.

As noted in this article here, customers may not always choose the first company they contact, but they’ll often go with the one that responds first.

b. Share customer testimonials:
Sharing testimonials from previous customers who benefited from an onsite visit can help build credibility and encourage potential customers to schedule a visit.

c. Follow up after the onsite visit:
Following up with the customer after an onsite visit can help keep your business top of mind and provide an opportunity to answer any additional questions or concerns.

PRO TIP: Establishing trust with your customers on the “easy stuff” can positively impact their confidence in you for major decisions like an HVAC purchase and installation. Unfortunately, some contractors have a reputation for disorganization, which can undo prior efforts to gain customer trust.

Overall, HVAC business owners can encourage onsite visits before giving quotes or estimates by explaining the importance and benefits of onsite visits, offering a free onsite evaluation, providing clear instructions for scheduling, sharing customer testimonials, and following up after the visit.

6. Offer Financing Options to Overcome HVAC Price Shopping

hvac financing options

Offering financing options is one of the most effective ways that HVAC business owners can overcome price shoppers and appeal to a wider range of customers.

By providing affordable financing solutions, you can help customers who may not have the immediate funds to pay for a new heating or cooling system upfront, but who still want to invest in the comfort and energy efficiency of their home.

Here are some key ways that offering financing can help you overcome price shoppers:

q. Provide flexibility and affordability:
By offering financing options, you can provide flexibility and affordability to customers who may be hesitant to invest in a new HVAC system due to the upfront cost. Financing allows customers to spread out the cost over time, making it more manageable and accessible to their budget.

b. Increase purchasing power:
Financing also allows customers to increase their purchasing power, as they may be able to afford a higher-end HVAC system or more advanced features that they would otherwise not be able to purchase outright.

This can help differentiate your business from competitors who may not offer financing, and attract customers who are looking for the best value for their money.

c. Build long-term customer relationships:
Build long-term customer relationships: Offering financing options can also help you build long-term relationships with customers.

By providing a valuable service that helps them meet their needs and achieve their goals, you can create loyal customers who will return to your business for future needs and recommend your services to their friends and family.

d. Stand out from the competition:
In a highly competitive industry like HVAC, offering financing can help you stand out from the competition and differentiate your business. By providing an added value to customers that competitors may not offer, you can increase your market share and grow your business over time.

In summary, offering financing options is a powerful tool that HVAC business owners can use to overcome price shoppers and appeal to a wider range of customers. By providing flexibility, affordability, and increased purchasing power, you can build long-term relationships with customers, stand out from the competition, and grow your business over time.

7. Use Scripts to Overcome HVAC Price Shoppers

Using scripts is a common practice in many industries, including sales and customer service, as they can provide a useful starting point for conversations with customers. However, it’s important to remember that scripts should not be rigidly adhered to, especially if they make you sound robotic or insincere.

Instead, it’s crucial to speak in your own voice, in a way that feels comfortable and natural to you. This means incorporating your own personality and tone into your interactions with customers, as well as adapting to their individual needs and preferences.

By speaking in your own voice, you can build trust and credibility with your customers, as they will be able to sense your authenticity and genuine interest in helping them. This can be especially important in the HVAC industry, where customers are often seeking advice and guidance on complex technical issues.

If you’re able to explain these concepts in a way that is clear, concise, and relatable, you’re more likely to win their business and build a long-term relationship.

PRO TIP: Even experienced sales professionals can become overwhelmed by difficult customers. However, following a script framework allows for flexibility and adaptability in handling unexpected situations.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should abandon all structure and preparation when speaking with customers. It’s still important to have a basic framework for your conversations, as well as key talking points that you want to cover.

However, by using these tools as a guide rather than a strict script, you can ensure that you’re able to adapt to the unique needs and preferences of each customer, and provide a more personalized and effective service overall.

In summary, while scripts can be a useful starting point for conversations with customers, it’s important to speak in your own voice and find a balance between structure and personalization. By doing so, you can build strong relationships with your customers, win their trust, and differentiate yourself from the competition.

8. Price Shoppers - Seven Scripts for HVAC Business Owners

Here are some scripts that HVAC business owners can use to help overcome price shoppers:

a. Highlighting Value:
When speaking with customers, HVAC business owners can use a script that emphasizes the value of their services. For example:

“Thank you for considering our company for your HVAC needs. We understand that you have many options when it comes to HVAC services, but what sets us apart is the value that we provide.

Our technicians are highly trained and experienced, and we use only the highest quality equipment and materials. This ensures that the job is done right the first time and that your HVAC system will operate at peak efficiency for years to come.

The investment in our services may be higher than some other companies, but the value that you receive in return is well worth it.”

hvac scripts

b. Building Relationships:
HVAC business owners can use a script that focuses on building relationships with customers. For example:

“We appreciate the opportunity to earn your business. Our goal is to establish a long-term relationship with you, and to provide you with the highest quality HVAC services at a fair price.

One of the things that set us apart is that we take the time to listen to your needs and provide personalized solutions, and we always stand behind our work.

We believe that building strong relationships with our customers is key to our success, and we look forward to serving you for many years to come.”

c. Offering packages:
HVAC business owners can use a script that promotes packages of services. For example:

“We have a special package deal right now that includes a high-efficiency furnace and air conditioner for one low price. It’s a great way to save money and ensure that your home is comfortable no matter the weather.

Our package includes a top-of-the-line furnace with a variable-speed blower and a high-efficiency air conditioner with a SEER rating of 16 or higher. We’ll also provide professional installation and a one-year warranty on all parts and labor. And the best part is, we’re offering it all at a discounted package price.”

And when they ask about the package price:

“The cost of the package will depend on the specific size and needs of your home, but we can provide a free estimate for you after an onsite visit. And with our financing options, we make it easy to get the comfort you need without breaking the bank. Plus, you’ll enjoy energy savings and improved comfort for years to come.”

d. Providing exceptional customer service:
HVAC business owners can use a script that emphasizes the importance of exceptional customer service. For example:

“At our company, we understand that customer service is just as important as the quality of our work. That’s why we strive to provide exceptional customer service from the moment you contact us until the job is complete.

Our technicians will arrive on time, treat your home with respect, and provide you with a detailed explanation of the work that needs to be done. We believe that a positive customer experience is key to building strong relationships.”

e. Explain the importance of onsite visits:
“Hello, and thank you for considering our HVAC services. I just wanted to take a moment to explain the importance of an onsite visit before we give a quote or estimate.

HVAC systems can be complex, and there may be issues that are not visible from the outside.

By conducting an onsite visit, we can inspect the system or equipment in person, identify any potential issues, and provide a more accurate quote or estimate.

I can’t tell you how many times we discover [general example of serious issue that has occurred] that dramatically affected the installation process…and as a result, the quote reflected that.

On the other hand, we sometimes come as the 2nd or 3rd quote and have found some serious savings for our customers based on what their actual needs were.

Again, without an onsite visit, we may miss important details that could impact the final cost of the job. So, we strongly recommend an onsite visit to ensure that we can provide the best possible service for your needs.”

e. Explain the importance of onsite visits:
“Hello, and thank you for considering our HVAC services. I just wanted to take a moment to explain the importance of an onsite visit before we give a quote or estimate.

HVAC systems can be complex, and there may be issues that are not visible from the outside.

By conducting an onsite visit, we can inspect the system or equipment in person, identify any potential issues, and provide a more accurate quote or estimate.

I can’t tell you how many times we discover [general example of serious issue that has occurred] that dramatically affected the installation process…and as a result, the quote reflected that.

On the other hand, we sometimes come as the 2nd or 3rd quote and have found some serious savings for our customers based on what their actual needs were.

Again, without an onsite visit, we may miss important details that could impact the final cost of the job. So, we strongly recommend an onsite visit to ensure that we can provide the best possible service for your needs.”

Conclusion:

In conclusion, HVAC business owners can successfully overcome price shoppers by focusing on building trust, emphasizing the value of their services, and differentiating themselves from their competitors.

By developing a strong reputation for quality workmanship, offering excellent customer service, and providing competitive pricing, business owners can demonstrate their commitment to delivering exceptional value to their customers.

Additionally, offering financing options, warranties, and maintenance plans can help customers see the long-term benefits of investing in high-quality HVAC services. By following these strategies, HVAC business owners can overcome price shoppers and build a loyal customer base that values their expertise and is willing to pay for the quality services they provide.

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