Introduction
Load calculations are only increasing in importance. Programs such as MassSave, NYSERDA and Xcel Energy are requiring ACCA Manual J certified loads in order for homeowners to gain access to tens of thousands of dollars worth of incentives.
Not to mention, building code compliance often requires residential HVAC heating and cooling calculations, with it featuring prominently in IECC building code.
While the financial impact that rebates can have on sales conversion is clear, as is the reduction in liability risk for contractors by following code, the added benefit of sales conversion lifts is incredibly powerful. Making sure your HVAC Load Calculation tool can drive fast, accurate, customized, cost effective and easy to read results is fundamental - and in this article we detail why.
Feature 1: Time-Efficiency - The Importance of Speed
With a shortage of over 100,000 professionals in the HVAC industry, it has never been more important to be effective with the limited time on site. On top of that, homeowners want quick detailed and data-driven support to be able to understand what they need, quickly.
When it comes to evaluating HVAC software solutions, and specifically load calculation tools, finding a solution that can produce a load in 15 minutes or less can ensure that it can fit into your team’s onsite sales process - without sacrificing quality.
When it comes to making sure that it doesn’t sacrifice quality, it is critical to make sure that the load takes into account windows (fenestration), orientation, floorplans, ceiling structures, and insulation levels.
Feature 2: Accuracy
An accurate load calculation is imperative to determine the right system for a given home. Incorrect system sizing can lower sales conversions, increase call backs and reduce overall customer satisfaction.
Key criteria to check for to ensure accuracy include:
- Use of ASHRAE Design Data to ensure the right design temperatures by location
- Use of property data that is editable to reflect actual conditions
We recommend testing multiple softwares and comparing the results to ensure that the software you choose is consistent.
Feature 3: Customization
In an era where homeowners seek multiple quotes, being able to differentiate from competitors has never been more important.
Using customized sales materials can differentiate you from competitors during the sales process.
Key criteria to check for include:
- Can you create customized sales material on site?
- What visuals, if any, of that specific home can be pulled in right off the bat?
Feature 4: Cost-Effectiveness
The cost of any software isn’t purely how much a subscription costs - what really matters is it’s impact on sales efficiency and sales conversion, which drives the return on investment of a given implementation.
Evaluating the return on investment on a load calculation software can include evaluating:
- The costs associated with callbacks and extended time on-site.
- The time savings on site that may derive from enhanced efficiency
- The enhanced sales conversion that results from driving to the right solution for the customer on-site
Feature 5: Ease of Use
The HVAC industry is constantly changing. With new technology entering, it’s critical that a new toolbar is user-friendly and easy to pick up, even for those who may be less comfortable with newer technologies.
Evaluating ease of use can include:
- Intuitive interfaces
- Applicability on common devices, such as iPads
- Built in, always available, use training
Conclusion
In the fast-paced world of HVAC, time is of the essence. Comfort advisors, sales managers, and business owners alike feel the pinch of low conversion rates and reduced ticket sizes, not to mention the costly callbacks and extra time spent on-site. While traditional methods of calculating load and designing systems have served us well, they are far from efficient in today's competitive landscape.
That's where Conduit’s Technology innovations come in. By leveraging cutting-edge LiDAR technology and best-in-class energy modeling, we've streamlined a task that used to take hours into a matter of minutes - without compromising on accuracy or quality. Conduit’s platform instantly generates 2D floor plans and 3D models, seamlessly integrated into sales materials that are customized for each homeowner, enabling value built on-site in real-time, setting you apart from the competition and giving you the edge you need to close high-revenue, high-efficiency sales.