Despite the effects of the worldwide COVID-19 crisis, the global market for HVAC and thermal insulation, which was estimated at US$4.5 Billion in 2020, is projected to grow to US$7.1 Billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 7%. With the predicted growth in the industry, we can also assume an increase in job opportunities within HVAC, insulation and ventilation engineering positions in the coming years.
Like many industries, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on HVAC and insulation, however, there are a number of trends that can be attributed to the expected growth of the industry.
Working from home
Last year, the majority of people spent a lot of time at home. Whilst in the UK we are working towards a gradual releasing of COVID-19 restrictions, a considerable percentage of people will continue to work from home for the foreseeable future rather than rushing back into the office. This has multiple implications for the HVAC industry.
Firstly, in the domestic sector, we may see an increase in demand for HVAC and ventilation professionals as home workers seek to ensure a more comfortable environment at home, as they will be spending a lot more time there. Another implication of remote working and unused offices and commercial spaces is that we can see an increase of building conversions, with business spaces repurposed. For example, many office buildings are being converted into domestic and commercial accommodation.
As more commercial premises are converted and repurposed, opportunities for HVAC, mechanical and construction contractors can be expected to increase.
Smart Home Technology
One of the fastest growing technologies of the last few years is Smart Home integration, with multiple technologies, including heating and air conditioning systems integrated to run from a single system for ease and efficiency. As Smart Home technology grows in 2021, we can expect that demand for integrated HVAC systems will increase and domestic and commercial consumers will look to replace older, incompatible heat, ventilation and air conditioning equipment.
Green Technology
As the green sector grows and demand for environmentally conscious tech increases, the HVAC market will have a key part to play in the growth of sustainable energy. In new construction projects, HVAC will have a key role in how homes and other buildings are built to retain heat in an environmentally friendly manner, as well as introducing new green heating and air conditioning technologies.
Software as a Service and Training
Alongside the emergence of new technologies in HVAC, HVAC engineers are increasingly using specialist software (SaaS) to create automated systems that can save money on energy costs. With the growing focus on green technologies, Saas is seeing increased use and will continue to grow in relevance.
With the introduction of new HVAC technologies and innovations, companies are looking carefully at how they will recruit and train staff – investment in employee training and new skills programmes will be essential for the HVAC industry to adapt to the changes we are experiencing.
HVAC Jobs
At On-Site Group, we have over 25 years experience in recruiting in mechanical industries such as thermal insulation, air conditioning and ventilation systems. With our knowledge of industries and the challenges mechanical contractors face, combined with our commitment to matching our candidates with the opportunities that best suit them, we can supply a wide range of blue and white collar labour throughout the UK and across Europe.
To talk through your HVAC career goals, please contact our team by calling 0845 070 3883, or email us here and we will get back to you as soon as possible.