How the 2025 Trade War Is Driving Up HVAC Prices — and What Smart Contractors Are Doing About It

The HVAC Industry Is Feeling the Heat in 2025

Global tensions are rising—and so are HVAC equipment costs. With import tariffs, supply chain delays, and material shortages driving up prices, contractors across the U.S. are facing shrinking margins and longer lead times.

But there’s a way to stay ahead.

In this guide, we break down what’s causing the price surge and show you how to adapt your strategy for 2025.

Why HVAC Prices Are Surging Right Now

1. Tariffs on Key Materials

Tariffs on metals like aluminum and steel (used in coils, compressors, and ducts) are adding 10–35% to manufacturing costs.

2. Global Supply Chain Disruptions

Backorders are becoming more common due to:

• Port slowdowns

• Overseas manufacturing delays

• Rising demand for SEER2-compliant systems

3. Soaring Shipping & Freight Costs

Increased oil prices and insurance premiums are making it more expensive to transport HVAC units—even domestically.

How It Impacts You as a Contractor

Contractors nationwide are dealing with:

• Delayed installs due to equipment shortages

• Higher upfront costs for basic jobs

• Losing customers who get priced out

• Margin pressure on every quote

If you’re not ahead of this curve, your competitors will be.

4 Strategic Moves Contractors Should Make in 2025

1. Secure Inventory Now

Stock high-turn SKUs:

• 2–5 ton condensers

• 18 SEER heat pumps

• DiversiTech electricals and accessories

Prices aren’t dropping anytime soon—lock in stock now.

2. Emphasize Energy Efficiency

SEER2-compliant units cost more but save customers on energy bills.
Position them as a smart long-term investment.

3. Offer HVAC Financing

Help customers say “yes” by breaking large installs into manageable monthly payments.

4. Strengthen Local Supplier Relationships

Forget the big-box chaos. Local suppliers like Imperial AC Supply offer:

• Faster product access

• More responsive service

• Exclusive contractor pricing

• Inventory alerts before market shortages hit

Why Top Contractors Are Turning to Imperial AC Supply

We’ve anticipated these price shifts and positioned our warehouses accordingly. Here’s how we support you:

• South Florida Same-Day Pickup

• In-stock SEER2-compliant equipment and accessories

• High-ROI tools and startup bundles

• Financing and bulk discounts for contractors

Final Thoughts: Play Defense Now to Win Big Later

The HVAC market is evolving fast. Rising prices are unavoidable—but losses aren’t.
Contractors who adapt early will not only survive—they’ll scale.

Be strategic.
Be stocked.
Be partnered with the right supplier.

Need help securing inventory or contractor pricing?

Call us at (786) 732-0077