Today’s HVAC Industry: An Introduction for Contractors

What You Need to Know

As a HVAC contractor, you’re working in an industry growing at an unprecedented rate in the USA.

All across the country, contractors are being tasked with more projects across the commercial, educational and healthcare sectors. This reflects a growing demand for HVAC systems - and technicians - that are up to the challenges of today’s society. We’ll get onto those challenges later.

• Fastest growth rate: The demand for commercial HVAC systems is expected to experience a growth rate of more than 7% from 2023 to 2030—the fastest growth rate to date (US Department of Energy)
• A massive spend: Consumers across all industries spend more than $10 billion each year on HVAC repair and maintenance services (US Department of Energy)
• Employment opportunities: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers will increase by 15% by 2026, much faster than average for all other occupations (US Bureau of Labour Statistics)
• American preference: 79% of survey respondents prefer equipment made in the United States, with 53% stating they buy American even when it costs more than imported options (Pink HVAC)
• Consumer behavior: 73.9% of consumers made their HVAC purchase after consulting at least one online review site (Pink HVAC)

The Story Behind the Stats: What it Means for You

Those are all big numbers. But what do they mean to the wider HVAC industry, and how can you expect these stats to change how you’ll work as a contractor in the years ahead?

Before we get into it, consider this. In 2023, the Department of Energy (DOE) changed the minimum efficiency requirements for HVAC units in an effort to create more environmentally friendly units. As a result, more people will continue to need HVAC services now and in the future to keep up with these changing regulations.

That means more work in your schedule, and more expectations in terms of the quality of your service and the quality of the products you use.

As a HVAC contractor, you must adapt, upgrade and constantly update your knowledge in order to remain competitive. Why? It’s simple: your customers and wider US society demand it.

Contractor Challenges: What Your Customers Expect

As the statistics we shared prove, your customers expect a lot more from your expertise than they would have in previous decades. Sustainability, cost-effectiveness and system performance are at the core of what your customers expect from the products you use. Below, we’ve highlighted just some of the challenges you must address:

Energy Efficiency

As a HVAC contractor, it is highly likely that energy efficiency will be at the very top of your customers’ demands. In today's climate of escalating energy costs, consumers are increasingly seeking air filters that not only enhance air quality but also contribute to reducing their energy expenditure.

System Longevity

The demand for long-lasting HVAC solutions has never been higher. Organizations, amidst the pressures of modern operations, seek reliability and endurance in their HVAC systems. Put simply, your customers don’t want a low-quality solution that’s going to fail them. Rather, they want a system that’s going to stand up to the pressures of time and constant usage.

System Performance

Recent global events have put the performance of air filters under intense scrutiny. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the vital role of air filters in capturing germs, bacteria, and harmful pathogens. Similarly, events like the Canadian wildfires, which drastically affected air quality in New York in 2023, highlighted the necessity of high-performance air filters in an age where air pollution and indoor air quality are mounting concerns.

Indoor Air Quality Concerns

Indoor air quality has become a paramount concern, with recent studies like the 2020 report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office revealing that 41% of schools require updates or replacements of their ventilation systems. Furthermore, data from Infogrid indicates that nearly half of U.S. parents worry about the impact of classroom air quality on their child’s health. Whether your customer is a school or a hospital, the products you use should allay these concerns.

American Preference

In the American market, there is a discernible preference for domestically made HVAC products, including air filters. Whilst materials from markets such as China typically command lower prices, your customers will expect a level of performance that US manufacturers are renowned for.

Installation Ease

Ease of installation is a growing expectation among consumers for HVAC products. Whether your consumers are installing air filters themselves or having you install them, the process should be straightforward, quick, and minimally disruptive. In a world where time is the essence, this demand continues to grow exponentially.

Brand Authority

Consumers love trusted brands, and in the HVAC industry, things are no different. With 73.9% of consumers making their HVAC purchase after consulting at least one online review site, it is clear that your customers expect you to use products from a brand that is respected, trusted and guaranteed to satisfy.

How Can You Meet the Demand?

Focus on Technician Productivity and Strategic Supply Partners

As a HVAC contractor, the challenges you face are clear. With your customers' demands growing year-on-year, you need to partner with vendors and rely on products that can truly step up to meet them head on.

That’s where we come in. Bringing decades of experience in the HVAC industry, we’ve carried out the research and designed the products and services you need to succeed. For each challenge, our products and services - including air filters - are the ultimate choice.

Meeting the energy challenge

• Brookaire Air Filter experts can help you select the most Energy-efficient air filter for specific applications. Air flow resistance, target filtration efficiency and filter lifespan are all balanced when selecting the correct filter for a given application. This crucial balance directly impacts utility bills and the overall carbon footprint of a building.
• Brookaire’s filtration media is made using nanofiber technology, allowing for optimal airflow efficiency, maximum filtration, and ensures filtration efficiency throughout the life of the filter. This cutting edge media ensures HVAC systems run more efficiently and consume less energy.
• Where energy costs are a significant concern, Brookaire's energy-efficient air filters represent an essential investment for cost-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

Meeting the longevity challenge

• Years of experience have driven us to understand this need.
• System reliability must be put first and a Preventative Maintenance Program is the best way to ensure maximum lifespan of HVAC units.
• Missing a planned maintenance due to lack of time and resources is long longer an option, and your customers want to know what you're doing about it.
• Prioritize your Air Filter efficiency or MERV rating. Choosing a filter with a higher MERV rating will ensure the coils and other components stay free of dust and debris, ensuring HVAC systems run at optimal efficiency for long periods of time.
• Check for maximum dust holding capacity. Choosing an air filter with high dust holding capacity means fewer disruptions, less time invested in HVAC management, and ultimately, more cost savings for you and your customers.
• We ensure that our air filters withstand the test of time, providing a durable solution that aligns with the practical and economic realities of today’s fast-paced world.

Meeting the performance challenge

• ASHRAE 52.2 is a standard developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) for testing the performance of air filters used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning HVAC systems.
• Brookaire’s air filters are designed in accordance with these standards and verified by independent labs, offering high-grade filtration that is crucial for maintaining a healthy, safe indoor environment in various settings.
• Our manufacturing process is bolstered by decades of experience and innovation. Our range of filters provide a strong line of defense against airborne contaminants, diseases and more.

Meeting the domestic preference challenge

• Your customers prefer a product manufactured domestically in the USA. Brookaire caters to this preference by offering products that are made in our own manufacturing facilities in the Northeast.
• In addition, Brookaire prioritizes domestic supply of raw materials, with 100% of materials for pleated filters being sourced in the USA.
• This not only aligns with the localized sentiments of American consumers but also assures them of quality, reliability, and adherence to domestic manufacturing standards.
• Our commitment to providing American-made products reinforces consumer trust and satisfaction, an essential factor in the HVAC industry.

Meeting the convenience challenge

• In our experience, a disposable pleated air filter as the first line of defense is the most convenient and efficient way to filter the air. This ensures filter and labor efficiency is optimal compared to washable or metal frame options.
• This focus on convenience and minimal operational impact is a testament to Brookaire’s commitment to customer-centric innovation and service - we’ll dive deeper into this area later in this whitepaper.

Brookaire: How We Help HVAC Contractors

It’s true: our inventory of products offer the level of performance, energy efficiency and longevity your customers demand. However, when you work with us, you can expect more. We’re more than just an air filter supplier - we’re a true partner to HVAC contractors across the USA. Keep reading to discover why.

1. Efficiency: We Get Your Job Finished Faster

   • 30-Minute Delivery Window: Every minute counts. This is why we offer a precise 30-minute delivery window. Our commitment to promptness means you spend less time waiting and more time doing.
   • Scheduled Job-Site Delivery, 24/7: We offer round-the-clock, scheduled job-site delivery designed to align with your busy schedule. This service ensures you get what you need, exactly when and where you need it. By delivering directly to your job site, we help you keep your technicians on task and out of supply houses.
   • Reduce Technicians’ Travel Time: Our job-site delivery significantly cuts down the time your technicians spend in transit. By eliminating the need to stop at supply houses, technicians can travel directly to job sites, increasing their on-site productivity.
   • Reduce Your Fleet Size: We understand that air filters, especially in bulk, are bulky and require significant space. Our direct delivery service removes the burden of transportation from your shoulders. You don’t need a large fleet to transport filters – we bring them to you, allowing you to focus solely on bringing your tools and expertise.
   • Get More Done With Fewer Technicians: Time saved is money earned. By reducing the hours your technicians spend off-site, Brookaire’s delivery service turns these hours into billable, productive time. This efficiency means you can achieve more with fewer resources, optimizing your workforce and enhancing your bottom line.
   • Ease of Installation: Our products, particularly air filters, are engineered to fit seamlessly into existing systems, ensuring a hassle-free installation process. This ease of installation means your technicians can complete more jobs in less time, significantly boosting productivity. Our filters come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions and are compatible with a wide range of HVAC systems, reducing the need for time-consuming adjustments or modifications on site. Whether you're dealing with standard or custom-sized filters, the design and build quality of Brookaire products guarantee a smooth, efficient fit every time.

2. Satisfaction: We Care About Your Reputation

   • We Care: We recognize that as a HVAC contractor, your professional reputation is as good as your last job. That’s why our commitment to the highest standards in your inventory is unwavering, as we understand that the satisfaction of your customers is a direct reflection of the trust they place in you.
   • Highest-Quality Materials: In the HVAC industry, the quality of materials is not just a feature; it's a cornerstone. We source premium materials for our products, ensuring they are robust, efficient, and long-lasting. This attention to quality means that when HVAC contractors install Brookaire products, they are installing confidence. Your customers will notice the difference – a system that performs optimally, with fewer issues over time, directly contributing to their comfort and trust in your services.
   • Advanced Manufacturing Processes: Our manufacturing processes are at the forefront of technological innovation. We employ state-of-the-art techniques to ensure precision in every product we make. This precision translates into products that are not only top-quality but also consistent in their performance. By ensuring that each item meets our stringent standards, we provide HVAC contractors with products that they can install with confidence, knowing that they will work seamlessly within any HVAC system.
   • Partnering With You: We view our relationship with HVAC contractors as a partnership. Your success is our success. By providing you with superior products, we aim to bolster your reputation in the field. We understand that each successful installation contributes to your standing as a reliable, quality-focused HVAC professional. As such, we are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed industry standards and expectations.

3. We Manufacture Filters Just For You

   • Customization at Its Best: Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is equipped to produce air filters of any size and in any quantity, tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you’re dealing with a unique architectural design, a specific environmental requirement, or a challenging installation space, our custom manufacturing service ensures that you have the perfect fit for every project.
   • Fast and Flexible Production: We recognize that time is a critical factor in your business. That’s why we emphasize speed without compromising on quality. With a lead time of just 48 hours on special size pleated filters, we ensure that your custom orders are fulfilled swiftly, keeping your projects on schedule. Our efficient production processes and dedicated team enable us to deliver these quick turnarounds consistently.
   • Easy Ordering Process: Placing a custom filter order with Brookaire is hassle-free. Simply contact us via email or phone with your custom filter request, and our team will take care of the rest. We provide personalized attention to each order, ensuring that all your requirements are accurately met. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and straightforward for you as possible.
   • Quality That Speaks: Every custom filter we produce goes through stringent quality checks to ensure that they meet our high standards. Using top-grade materials and precise manufacturing techniques, we ensure that each filter not only fits perfectly but also performs optimally. This commitment to quality means that you can install our filters with confidence, knowing that they will provide the best air quality and system efficiency to your clients.

4. We’re Your Ultimate Knowledge Resource

   • Experts At Your Service: Our strength lies in our large team of HVAC experts, a group of seasoned professionals deeply versed in all facets of HVAC technology and trends. This team is readily available to respond to any queries you might have, offering insights, advice, and solutions at remarkable speed. Whether you’re facing a complex installation challenge, need advice on the latest energy-efficient practices, or have a question about system optimization, our experts are here to provide you with the answers you need, when you need them.
   • Blogs & Articles: Our regularly updated blog is a treasure trove of information, featuring a wide range of topics. From installation tips and maintenance best practices to insights on the latest HVAC technologies and trends, our blogs are written to enhance your knowledge and skills. Each piece is crafted to provide practical, actionable advice that HVAC contractors can apply in virtually every scenario.
   • Expert Tips and Guides: Recognizing the diverse challenges faced in the field, our resources include expert tips and comprehensive guides. These resources cover various aspects of HVAC work, ensuring you have a reliable source of information for quick reference.
   • Technical Support and Guidance: Beyond our written resources, we offer personalized technical support and guidance. Our team is equipped to provide detailed explanations, troubleshoot issues and offer bespoke advice that aligns with the specific needs of your projects.

The Inventory Every Contractor Needs

Brookaire's fiberglass MERV 2 air filters are made with a rigid single-piece craft board frame. Our pinch frame design for 1" filters provide rigid construction that increases the life of the filter. The corners are sealed to ensure no air bypass through the frame. Fiberglass MERV 2 air filters air available in 1" and 2" depths, and are the most economical air filters on the market. Fiberglass filters, also known as 'standard', 'throwaway' or '30-day filters', are commonly used in residential HVAC systems, and in HVAC systems that do not have the air flow capacity to use a Pleated filter.

Brookaire's polyester MERV 4 air filters are built with a sturdy single-piece craft board frame. Our pinch frame design for 1" filters provide rigid construction that increases the life of the filter. The corners are sealed to ensure no air bypass through the frame. Polyester MERV 4 air filters air available in 1" and 2" depths, and provide an economical alternative to pleated filter styles. Poly filters are commonly used in residential HVAC systems, and in HVAC systems that do not have the air flow capacity to use a Pleated filter.

Brookaire's pleated MERV 10 air filter is the most common style filter used in HVAC systems. These filters are fabricated using a wire backed synthetic media assembled within a beverage board cardboard frame. Pleated MERV 10 air filters come in a vast array of standard size die cut frames in 1", 2" & 4" depths. The pleated style design provides additional surface area of media maximizing the air flow and efficiency. These air filters provide the perfect balance of air flow and efficiency. Pleated MERV 10 filters are commonly used in high end residential and commercial HVAC systems.

With lower initial resistance and better dust holding capacity, this is the high capacity version of Brookaire's pleated MERV 10 air filter. These filters are fabricated using a wire backed synthetic media assembled within a beverage board cardboard frame. High Capacity Pleated MERV 10 air filters come in a vast array of standard size die cut frames in 1", 2" & 4" depths. The pleated style design provides additional surface area of media maximizing the air flow and efficiency. These air filters provide the perfect balance of air flow and efficiency. Pleated MERV 10 filters are commonly used in high end residential and commercial HVAC systems.

Brookaire's pleated MERV 11 air filter widely used in HVAC systems. The filters are manufactured using a wired backed synthetic media assembled within a beverage board cardboard frame. Pleated MERV 11 air filters come in a vast array of standard size die cut frames in 1", 2" & 4" depths. The pleated style design provides additional surface area of media maximizing the air flow and efficiency. These air filters provide a great balance of air flow and efficiency. Pleated MERV 11 filters are commonly used in high end residential and superior commercial HVAC systems as an upgrade to standard pleated MERV 8 air filters. They can also be used when the HVAC system's airflow capacity does not allow for MERV 13 use, but higher grade filtration is required. Captures: Legionella, Humidifier dust, lead dust, milled flour, auto emission particles, nebulizer drops, and more! Made in the USA.

Brookaire's MERV 13 pleated air filters are best in class. Made with synthetic media wire backed and inserted into a sturdy moisture resistance beverage kraft board frame it achieves long service life. This high performance pleated air filter provides the highest initial and sustained efficiency along with a lowest initial pressure drop in its class. The MERV13 media made with Nanofiber technology enabling great air flow while sustaining high filtration achieving MERV 13 per ANSI/ASHRAE Std. 52.2. These filters are available in 1", 2" and 4" depths in a full range of standard and custom size. MERV 13 pleated filters are used as a pre-filter for high end final filters. Typical Applications: Superior Commercial Buildings, Hospital and Pharmaceutical, Education Facilities, Gyms, Hospitality Captures: All bacteria, droplet nuclei, droplet borne viruses, cooking oil, most smoke (3rd hand smoke), insecticide dust, most face powder, most paint, pigments.

Experience the superior air purification capabilities of Brookaire's Carbon Pleated Air Filters, expertly designed to elevate your indoor air quality. Our advanced filters ingeniously combine the fine particle trapping efficiency of pleated filters with the odor-reducing power of activated carbon. This unique combination ensures not only cleaner air but also a significant reduction in common odors from pets, cooking, smoke, and various indoor pollutants. Each filter features a robust construction that captures a wide range of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and mold spores, while the embedded activated carbon layer absorbs and neutralizes odors, leaving your indoor environment fresher and more pleasant. These filters are engineered for durability and performance.

Brookaire’s Ring Panels, Ring Links & Cube Filters are made with a graduated density polyester media with a dry tackifier on the downstream side. It is designed to replace pleated and/or fiberglass throwaway filters. MERV 8

1/2", 1"& 2" Thick Polyester Air Filter Media Rolls available in many widths. Great for use to cover return grills or coils during construction to reduce the dust and debris in the air stream. This non-pleated material is easy to cut to size.

Brookaire Mini-Pleat Air Filters. Synthetic Filter Media, next generation mini pleat compact filters in polyester media, high surface area, high dust holding capacity, low pressure drop, increased filter life & ensured filtration performance with plastic ABS or cardboard die cut frame, best for green building concept and variable volume areas.

Brookaire's extended surface bag/pocket filters are designed for HVAC systems where medium to high efficiency is required. Bag filters come in a variety of MERV ratings, pocket counts, face dimensions, and pocket depth. Manufactured with a galvanized steel frame and internal pocket supports, they have strength and rigidity for long service life. Each pocket is sonically sealed along the outside edge to prevent air and particle passthrough. Standard headers are 7/8". Typical Applications: Superior Commercial Buildings, Hospital and Pharmaceutical, Education Facilities, Gyms, Hospitality, LEED accredited facilities.

Brookaire's extended surface rigid box filters air designed for HVAC systems where medium to high efficiency filtration is required. Box filters are available in a wide variety of standard face sizes and depths, as well as MERV 8, 11, 13, & 14 ratings. Box filters provide optimal performance for variable air volume and variable flow systems. Box filters come with No Header, Single Header or Double Header style. 26 gauge galvanized construction with diagonal metal supports and plastic molded media separators provide a strong box filter that will go the distance. Typical Applications: Superior Commercial Buildings, Hospital and Pharmaceutical, Education Facilities, Gyms, Hospitality, LEED accredited facilities.

Brookaire's ASHRAE Cell Filters represent a pinnacle of air filtration technology, designed to meet the stringent standards set by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). These filters are meticulously engineered for environments where superior air quality is non-negotiable. Crafted with high-efficiency media, our ASHRAE Cell Filters excel in capturing a broad spectrum of airborne contaminants, including fine dust particles, allergens, and microbial agents. They are particularly effective in settings requiring advanced air purification, such as healthcare facilities, laboratories, and high-tech industrial environments.

Brookaire V-Bank Air Filters. Synthetic Filter Media, Next generation mini pleat compact filters in polyester media, high surface area, high dust holding capacity, low pressure drop, increased filter life & ensured filtration performance with plastic ABS frame, best for green building concept and variable volume areas.

Brookaire's HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Absorbing) Filters are designed with premium air filter media to maximize the amount of particles removed from the air when installed in an HVAC system. HEPA filters are commonly used in critical environments like clean rooms for pharmaceuticals, hospitals, food manufacturing, data centers and more. The use of HEPA filters increases the protection of your HVAC equipment while providing maximum efficiency in removing contaminants from the air. True HEPA air filters are at least 99.97% efficient in capturing particles between 3 - 10 microns.

Introducing Brookaire's Metal Mesh Filters, crafted from high-quality aluminum and designed for durability and reusability. These washable filters are an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for your HVAC needs, providing excellent filtration without the need for constant replacement. They can be reused multiple times, reducing waste and saving on the cost of frequent filter replacements. Ideal for both commercial and residential systems, these filters are not just a practical choice but an investment in sustainability.

V-Belts

The outside fabric wrap is treated with highly oil and heat resistant, engineered synthetic rubber, specifically compounded for superior wear resistance, proven through thousands of hours of customer use to be durable and dependable. The helically wound tensile cords are specially manufactured with twisted, heat and chemically set, polyester material. The body rubber is a highly engineered synthetic rubber compound, specially compounded for cool running, crack resistance, and excellent bonding to the outside fabric and tensile cords.

Calling all HVAC Contractors: Partner with Us Now

Shop Online

Visit www.brookaire.com

Book a Meeting

Book an introductory meeting with one of our experts to find out how Brookaire can make your life easier!

Chat With Us

Need an instant answer? Our support agents are ready to assist you online with live chat.

Call Us

Got a question? Give us a call Monday - Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM EST on (973) 473-7527

Email Us

Questions? Feedback? Send us an email to sales@brookaire.com

Follow Us on Social

Be sure to check out our official social media pages on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

NJ Distribution Center
46 Whelan Rd,
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
USA

PA Distribution Center
581 Manchester Ct,
York, PA 17408
USA