I've been a licensed hvac mechanic for over 25yrs and in the last few years I've been doing my own work. Running your own business is very hard but at the same time it's rewarding I'm 53 years old and I want to enjoy the rest of my life not killing myself for someone else to ride around in a 80.000 truck and go on vacations unfortunately people that have their own business think that their the only one's that deserve to make all the money what I think should happen is HVAC companies start paying their guys better and give them incentive programs because even at $35 an hour bringing home $1,000 a week after you just meet someone roughly 15 to 20 thousand doesn't add up I understand that the company has over head but I believe that your employees would work harder and more productive if they felt that they were being paid well
If my math is correct, that’s over $72k per year on a 5 day work week at 8 hours a day. I’d take that in a heartbeat. Don’t need to worry about call backs, trucks, gas, advertising, etc. I do own my business and make good money but also have to be at it almost every waking moment. Sometimes you need to spend $1200 on tires, $3k on transmission on the truck. Sometimes you need to burn time and gas money on a call back. I’m not complaining but for SOME people the $35/ hr better fits their lifestyle and risk adversity.
I started my own gig in August 2020. Im a plumber/gas fitter. I do heating. I agree that it’s very challenging. One of the hardest things is staying motivated after you get a few big jobs in the record books. You get a little comfortable & there isn’t anyone telling you to go to work. It takes constant self discipline. So rewarding though!!
I’m starting my own company in January. My wife said to me “ This is great, you’ll be home more, work less and make more money” lol. I was like nope that’s not how it works for it to work. Going to be working a lot more, this not going to be a walk in the park by no means. But hey I got several duct jobs lined up already, I’m excited
@@itchierichie4446 that's what you think. Be prepared. No perception of what it might actually be like matches with the experience of undertaking it. The fact that Google says you have 30% of succes rate, says it all. Be prepared. I'm thankful I don't have children or a wife while I started.
@@heatncool I appreciate your concern. I’ve spent the last two years planning out sources of income, business practices, means in installation and service call management, logo design, different scenarios plotted out in a notebook I keep with me in my truck. Which my supervisor praised me for keeping notes and being organized ( he don’t even know what’s in the notebook). Long story short, I plan things out deeply, no surprises. Now there will be something that comes up I didn’t plan for, but I’ll just roll with it when it comes. In closing, don’t trust google, believe in yourself. Take care of yourself and God bless
My mentor is a GC of 27 years. He ran all that time contracting and subbing with other contractors. His biggest advice for me getting into it was to become a GC and to use the technology to systemize because the truth is you can work less if you have smarter systems and keep yourself organized, he also said if you run "lean" meaning don't buy everything brand new you don't have to earn as much to be in the black. Finally he said be a true Capitalist and in times of surplus build your brand. These are just things I've absorbed, there are a few ways to do it right but they all take the same things discipline, focus, and persistence!
i had a carpentry teacher and he was a general contractor for his whole construction thing and he told me one thing he wished he had done was sub contracted everything so he didnt have to pay for their tools give them insurance and even pay them his self so im goin to go and try and do that with hvac but i have no idea how to even get started subbing it out can you only sub out on installs in new house or big jobs or can you sub out even small repairs? and how would you go about finding them?
I think managing finances is a major key, but coupled with that , you got to love what you do and do it well enough that it has a positive impact on you and then your clients- I think understanding some principles of psychology is VERY important.
Lots of good advice in the video and comments. My best advice to new business HVAC owner is: Treat your customer like you would like to be treated. Be honest and trustworthy and do your best work always. You don't have to be the cheapest just fair. The work will come and not all work is good work. Start by paying yourself cause later you have to pay someone else to do it. Keep up with your paperwork (Taxes, Bank Accounts Supply Accounts) Pay your employees or sub-contractor like you would like to have been paid. Keep learning!! The first 3 to 5 years are normally the hardest but prepare for the unexpected (911 War COVID) Set time aside for yourself and stick to it. Good Luck.
Thanks for the the videos! I started watching your videos when I began HVAC/R school. I am finished now and have learned so much from you. Thank you very much. When I started this journey all I knew about HVAC was that there was a big fan that sat outside (condenser) of the house on the side or back. And I knew you could have gas or electric heat... THATS IT! Thanks and God Bless.
I could write a book about what I would do differently. Chapter one would be: only plan on working 18 hours in the field per week. The rest of time should be in the office doing marketing, operations, bookkeeping. When you start off doing 60hours in the field, and you get overwhelmed and think your ready to make your first hire, you will experience lots of pain.
That is correct Zac, if there is something that I emphasized to my students, it is that, before entering the area of AC, they learn to manage what they receive in the job they are currently in and some with a low salary. and, that the company owner works much more than as an employee. 100% agree
Great video. I got to see my dad struggle in business. He definitely had some great years. He did it differently from you. He wasn’t in a truck taking service calls, installing new equipment, or TH-cam. He liked to have technicians out in the field and doing heavy commercial projects. It was difficult for him to do the estimates, project manager, pay roll, look over contracts. I never wanted to be involved in the HVAC industry. Took the college route. No debt but no job offers. I came back to the trade and plan on opening my own shop. I wish you would of went more in detail how many companies are in business today. It’s not difficult for technicians to jump from techs to business. It does take a different type of individual to have a business. It also depends on a technician. A top chiller tech, refrigeration equipment technician, controls technician will rather work for a top company.
I'm freelance. Made 175k this year.. my first year.. and had poor (very poor) money management. This year will be different. Thanks for all your good advice. I sometimes disagree with you, but not very often. Just started watching your videos a week ago. Keep it up bro. Louisville ky hvac here.
Thanks for another great Video! I started my own company end of 2019 and still working full time but I try to soak up as much knowledge as possible, the tips you give are realistic. Thanks again @Quailty HVACR
When i worked for son one else I was working up to 70 plus hours a week, working for myself is a lot easier. Yes you have to do it all but my previous employer made us do it all basically. Managing your money is huge huge HUGE ! It’s all about wants and needs , is it a want or a need.
I have only 8 months and is not easy but I went for and I love it. I will recommend sprayed you name with people the you know and neighbors. I was one of the best install in the company for 11 years I know service to and I got my license and I went for it. I work hard almost every day, no weekends only emergencies .
I love owning a business. Especially when people walk by and they see a young man like myself doing carpentry work. A man, contractor or construction guy. I love it. I do want to start my own HVAC business in accordance to my already started small business, and hopefully one day, something bigger get my contractors license through the state here in Texas. May go work for another company just for experience and learning a little bit of what you can’t learn in school and then go out and do it on my own.
As a hvac estimator in Arizona it makes no since to own a Business when I’m able to work 5 days a week no on call hours and makes $250k-$300K a year selling 2.5-3 Million in sales.
What’s up man!! Love your content. I’m actually from Murfreesboro myself. My mentor taught me everything I know so I started my own business here in Salt Lake City Utah. I take for granted all the knowledge he imparted sometimes, but I’m always learning and adapting. Thanks for sharing your skills with everyone! Cheers
As a tradesman for a couple decades this is my observation: if a tradesman does not want to get tossed out like trash when they get old, then they either need to eventually work for themselves or through a union. Otherwise, it is just back breaking work for not enough pay to ever retire, and it is likely your body will be played out when you are in your 50s. So you can only retire and comfortable provide for your family by either making substantial money working for yourself or getting a retirement through a union while still making a decent buck. Union work seems less every year and not in every area, so working for yourself might be the only option. The trap is working for someone else your entire career non union for what seems like a decent buck. If you do not want to work for yourself and no union is available, I would consider state work that has a pension.
You pretty much just summed everything up. That's about it in a nutshell. The struggle I'm currently going through. I'm union. But it's getting weirder and weider by the day man. Almost feel like the union safety is almost out the door.
21 yrs in business, and no definitely not easy , employees problems become your problems , taxes , shop overhead list goes on and on. You have to have thick skin , be on top things. I agree not for everyone, I have seen companies start up and make it others fail after a few years. I have been through the 2008, 09 bank crisis, covid economic crisis. When the next crisis that’s what people also have to think of.
Im working on going out on my own. The shitty hourly wages is a waste of my time. Ive been moonlighting with my secret side business. Been making monthly wages I do at my day job in one job. That is just working on a Saturday. I have been having to use my vacation days to work for myself because I have so much working right now I can hardly keep up. Just purchased an enclosed trailer I am setting up too.
I personally wouldn’t want to own a company cause i do enough side work that brings alote of extra money for me and the fact that I don’t handle that can’t of stress let alone the a service manager stress I rather be a tech till I drop And towards the end of my career be a HVACR teacher
I work for another hvac business and work on the side doing installs/service. I hate paying taxes so I dont. All cash or gold/silver for payment bahaha. Let's go brandon
Awesome video ! Really helped humble My idea of starting an electrical company, I’ve been in electrical for 3 years now. I start as an hvac tec on Monday, I’m super excited ! Happy holidays ! That veto pro backpack looks kick ass !
Well i went to school for this not like many of those. Ive paid my dues crawling through attics at 120°temps, sliced my hands, while im a certiefied technician. Nobody wanted me to to see me make it. Now im gonna come back and rub it in there face. Humbly. Dont get discouraged for thlse who went to school for this. I graduated 2012 and till this time frame im barely trying to get my business going. Most of these lil boys got hand outs.🤷♂️
Graduated in 2017 and have been through so much and been with 1 company since coming out of school and while they have been incredible to me and teaching me to be the tech I am today, I feel like it's time for me to find another place to work make more $$$ now! Nothing against the company but I feel my pay is maxed out here now
Tell me about man. I had to work at a company my school instructors told me to stay away from. I had to work there as a last resort. Sure enough they were right about that company.
@@j.j.5844 go on your own. I've learned no matter what company you work for there will ALWAYS be a d*ckhead trying to bring u down. I've tried laying low do my job and go home & that doesn't work somehow still get pulled into bullsh*t. Only people that lasts in hvac companies is the ones that kiss ass and are yes men with no balls.. I stand my ground oh well
I'm not a hvac guy but I do have a part time business and I work a lot of hours in it. The key is to have your systems set up from start. The paperwork in itself can run you back into the W2 tax bracket LOL...I agree some think since you can earn a lot of money they think running a business is easy. You can quickly despise it because you focus on the money.
I didn't start my own over money. I could work for larger AC companies and be worked to death while making good money. But those places are high stress churn bucket. Money without quality of life is no life you want. Sure it takes time to build a company, if you view anything about the HVAC business as work like making videos, blogging keeping up running the company telling yourself that if you think you are going to work remotely for a day then you can pretend to work somewhere else. After working for a number of companies for 14 years I came up with a plan and now looking back 14 years later of working for myself. I had some really good years and I had some years that make me wonder how I survived. When you are working for someone else for a paycheck you never consider those things. Those hard years only provide flavor now to my otherwise weathered HVAC career of 28 years. Not bragging, just explaining. I am nothing special, just dedicated to those I provide service for and that in and of itself is a hard commodity to find these days. I like the variety that HVAC provides after putting in the time and effort I approached it from the stand point of working everyday. If someone lives in my area and willing to pay for service I will go and see what I can do for them. At the end of the day HVAC Service is what runs this business. It doesn't stop to take a day off / phone it in to work remotely? If you want real work HVAC will provide you that and in person. If you go into business for yourself, for it to be a success you have to be in it for the right reasons. Taking time off isn't one of them. You need to be able to eat, sleep and drink whatever the business is. Since I started my own I have never once taken a vacation, I work every day for 14 years. There are lulls in that time that I take breaks but they are not really planned because if I have a paying customer on the line I will drop everything at a moments notice. If you can't do that I doubt you will see any success in HVAC.
Good stuff!.. waiting to hear back from the state for my cac #s and then I'll be full sprint on my own. In the meantime I'm paying myself to learn the ins and outs of the business aspect of things and networking in my area. Great content brother. 👍
I wish people would consider all these factors before saying "Just start your own company" I don't wanna go into business for myself because I'm not interested in sales nor managing or developing a business plan. I realized im happy being about to clock out and go home. I am thinking of quitting the trade because of Low Wages in this trade.
Good video by all means. I am happy to work for a company that way company phone shuts off when off duty. I have weekends off and no stress. I got benefits, van, retirement, etc. If i open my own company i will go under pressure and at the same lose sleep and be worried about this months rent.
I owned my own company I was nice. I went back to work for the union and do some side work and I like that better a great deal less responsibility and I think I do better now in terms of personal income,
biggest tip in my opinion is to get on with another company and learn estimating this will help your company as you wont price yourself out of the market and be competetive. one other big thing is that i learned that it is all about who you know and how much purchasing power you have, your equipment costs could very well cover your labor for a whole job.
Having owning my business for 14 years now We are really busy but we have had a lot of issues finding team members to grow. We have given up a lot of business this year because of that. It can be a grind everyday and yes you do work many more hours.
@@didafm well Maybe if you were in the trade you would figure out that there is a huge shortage of qualified people. I happen to have an add paying up to 50 an hour for a qualified person. Up in the northwest we have a real shortage of trades personal. Schools have been closed for going on two years so no hvac classes at the community college. Plus people my age are also getting out of the trade because they are tired of being worked to death. The sunbelt they seem to have a lot of labor available but not many turn key people.
@@integratedairsolutionsllc.9438 Fair enough. I actually just started working in sheet metal trade in northern Canada. Im 25 years old .....i only make $20+ 9.6% holiday vacation pay
@@didafm If it is something you enjoy stick with it. I wish we had better programs here. Service can be rough as you work very long hours. Most companies have so much work not enough people.
Thank you for the video! I read the title was like what lol. Then I saw your points and said Yepp I agree lol. But good video it is helpful. I’m about to finally start my first semester for construction management. Years and years in the making, I’m super thankful it’s finally here. I always love watching your videos. Merry Christmas Man!
Hey man great video! I'm about to start up my own company and ease my way into it. Any advice on software that could help me? Business, load calculation, duct design, etc?
My idea is to get my plumbing and electrical license as well then flip houses/rent them out. Not service, except with friends, family, and a few customers I currently help outside of my companies area.
I had my own company. I moved to the south and I'm working for another company. I miss my baby. Once I pay off some debt I will be back at it. I also miss being able to take my 8 year old son with me to work some days
Balance is key to working less. Learn to say no and find a reliable company that your customers and you can trust to fill in for you when can not make it.
What a cheap shot pulling up at the end of the video in a $80,000 Denali pick up truck. That sends a good message go into business and buy a $80,000 pick up truck to start out, good idea. there’s only one reason to go in the business for yourself and that’s to make more money than you could working for somebody else.
Personally my biggest struggle growing my company is keeping my integrity and honor. When I hire I am faced with a choice...to pretend like my technician is competent and honest and just charge the customer for my technician's incompetence or swallow the cost and fire him and be back to doing everything myself. Part my fault and part is a societal problem, incompetence and dishones zombies walking all around us.
See, I couldn't envision myself getting into this for what I'd *earn*. The extrinsic advantages -- payin the bills, affording parts should I need them, the like -- are never going to outweigh the intrinsic ones: Providing stand-behind, economical AC repair for those struggling to make ends meet and knowing my best work helped somebody else live better. But, yeah, too many idealize and romanticize the idea of doing this for themselves without understanding that you're always going to need a rock-solid business plan, proper training, and decent representation.
Running a business is a entire other profession. You could be a great technician but that doesnt mean you can run a company. It is very complex and you will go years without making a profit and you better have some funds available to survive. You quickly find out that having steady pay check is muuuch better than not knowing if you can pay your mortgage/ rent.
Anybody that wants to start they own business should. If you fail its not the end of the world. Better to say I tried than to say I should have done it. Maybe you will be one of those companies that makes it.
Go to the new construction sites and hand out your business information to the guys runnin those houses. Theres alot of hvac companies that take those jobs and cant handle them because they got other work goin on. They want all that for themselves. I know it from experience.
You're title is misleading, It's not for weak men , owning a business, I've seen my dad put in countless unpaid hours in computer work that would discourage sane men. But, once you see the potential of being your own boss, and potentially expanding you're family business, nothing beats that. Greetings form OR
I’ve been really determined on getting back into school to get my high school diploma so I can do hvac, if I goto hvac school will I learn how to do most of everything for this job? Very nervous that I won’t be good at it but I feel like it would be a very rewarding job and something I’d be proud of my self for
What kind of bike you got? Had to take a notice. I finally lic last year and it’s been great and a process. Your vids are great thanks for your efforts
What do you guys recommend for more work,just started my company and was wondering if things like angie leads actually work well for us HVAC guys. Dallas TX?
Sorry I can't help; I retired before social media and many of the new tools available but as Quality Air man said Business Cards; flyers and knocking on doors. If you're after commercial work contact managers, etc. Use small local papers and put ads with coupons. Also have the best answering service you can get. Have them page you and it will help you along the way; some answering services offer 800 numbers. It works. Make sure your co name is registered and incorporate early to protect your property!
I’m currently using Angie list and it works pretty well. Helps build clients. The drawback is the service leads fee but once you gain that client you keep ‘em. So all in all it’s worth it until it snowballs
Owning your own company is not for everyone. If your a top feeder at a shop your at now, maybe it's a good idea. Most guys out there are either good installers or good services tech. Very rare to be both. Another thing is communication and professionalism, those things you can't teach. I started my own thing here in CA 3 months ago and I'm steady.
@@bobboscarato1313 my friend just moved to Texas. I'm doing OK financially so I'll be here for now. Hate democratic ways and all bs here but I aint moving to the desert or Antarctica. Lol
Passes Dave Ramsey, talks about budgeting, eats fast food twice lol Everything you said was true though, I like the brick and mortar I work for there is value in that certainly, God bless!
And just out of curiosity, the service you did first of how much the cost is, I'm starting but it is difficult for me to charge because sometimes most of the people are Hispanic in the area where I am. Greetings and God bless you.
@@LeoMessi-fc9jg You need lessons in salesmanship; explain to consumers things. If they haggle ask them: "what do you want me to take out?" They'll pay full price.
Bro exactly I don’t even have experience yet but starting school and working for yourself is easily attainable just marketing the field itself will bring you customers
@@cashaddictnell it's all in what you want. We don't all have the same values, talent or ability. Thankfully when working for yourself you have more control.
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What really helped me was starting out with a good lawyer, insurance agent, and accountant as part of my team.
And then he held on like UGA. LOL (Staying the course wins the prize regardless of what you do)
Exactly
Very true!
Glad you have times to watch on between work/post/answer/watch 😂
@@vitoplower1119 Yes I'm Retired!
I've been a licensed hvac mechanic for over 25yrs and in the last few years I've been doing my own work. Running your own business is very hard but at the same time it's rewarding I'm 53 years old and I want to enjoy the rest of my life not killing myself for someone else to ride around in a 80.000 truck and go on vacations unfortunately people that have their own business think that their the only one's that deserve to make all the money what I think should happen is HVAC companies start paying their guys better and give them incentive programs because even at $35 an hour bringing home $1,000 a week after you just meet someone roughly 15 to 20 thousand doesn't add up I understand that the company has over head but I believe that your employees would work harder and more productive if they felt that they were being paid well
Yup same thing with the plumbing companies
I suppose it depends where you live but 35 an hour is good money
Correct. Unfortunately if someone wants what they deserve they must not work for someone else and they be their own boss.
Actually they won’t work any harder or faster.
If my math is correct, that’s over $72k per year on a 5 day work week at 8 hours a day. I’d take that in a heartbeat. Don’t need to worry about call backs, trucks, gas, advertising, etc. I do own my business and make good money but also have to be at it almost every waking moment. Sometimes you need to spend $1200 on tires, $3k on transmission on the truck. Sometimes you need to burn time and gas money on a call back. I’m not complaining but for SOME people the $35/ hr better fits their lifestyle and risk adversity.
I started my own gig in August 2020. Im a plumber/gas fitter. I do heating. I agree that it’s very challenging. One of the hardest things is staying motivated after you get a few big jobs in the record books. You get a little comfortable & there isn’t anyone telling you to go to work. It takes constant self discipline. So rewarding though!!
I’m starting my own company in January. My wife said to me “ This is great, you’ll be home more, work less and make more money” lol. I was like nope that’s not how it works for it to work. Going to be working a lot more, this not going to be a walk in the park by no means. But hey I got several duct jobs lined up already, I’m excited
I started my business 5 years ago...it took off and things are going well. You have to be willing to bust ass
You will sacrifice your health, relationships, and your savings
@@heatncool lol I’m doing that now working for someone else.
@@itchierichie4446 that's what you think. Be prepared. No perception of what it might actually be like matches with the experience of undertaking it. The fact that Google says you have 30% of succes rate, says it all. Be prepared. I'm thankful I don't have children or a wife while I started.
@@heatncool I appreciate your concern. I’ve spent the last two years planning out sources of income, business practices, means in installation and service call management, logo design, different scenarios plotted out in a notebook I keep with me in my truck. Which my supervisor praised me for keeping notes and being organized ( he don’t even know what’s in the notebook). Long story short, I plan things out deeply, no surprises. Now there will be something that comes up I didn’t plan for, but I’ll just roll with it when it comes. In closing, don’t trust google, believe in yourself. Take care of yourself and God bless
My mentor is a GC of 27 years. He ran all that time contracting and subbing with other contractors. His biggest advice for me getting into it was to become a GC and to use the technology to systemize because the truth is you can work less if you have smarter systems and keep yourself organized, he also said if you run "lean" meaning don't buy everything brand new you don't have to earn as much to be in the black. Finally he said be a true Capitalist and in times of surplus build your brand. These are just things I've absorbed, there are a few ways to do it right but they all take the same things discipline, focus, and persistence!
i had a carpentry teacher and he was a general contractor for his whole construction thing and he told me one thing he wished he had done was sub contracted everything so he didnt have to pay for their tools give them insurance and even pay them his self so im goin to go and try and do that with hvac but i have no idea how to even get started subbing it out can you only sub out on installs in new house or big jobs or can you sub out even small repairs? and how would you go about finding them?
what is a GC
I’m guessing it means General Contractor.
I think managing finances is a major key, but coupled with that , you got to love what you do and do it well enough that it has a positive impact on you and then your clients- I think understanding some principles of psychology is VERY important.
Lots of good advice in the video and comments. My best advice to new business HVAC owner is:
Treat your customer like you would like to be treated.
Be honest and trustworthy and do your best work always.
You don't have to be the cheapest just fair.
The work will come and not all work is good work.
Start by paying yourself cause later you have to pay someone else to do it.
Keep up with your paperwork (Taxes, Bank Accounts Supply Accounts)
Pay your employees or sub-contractor like you would like to have been paid.
Keep learning!!
The first 3 to 5 years are normally the hardest but prepare for the unexpected (911 War COVID)
Set time aside for yourself and stick to it.
Good Luck.
Great advice for any business.
I love how you brought your son with the lecture. Great dad! Teaching them young is the key!
Thanks for the the videos! I started watching your videos when I began HVAC/R school. I am finished now and have learned so much from you. Thank you very much. When I started this journey all I knew about HVAC was that there was a big fan that sat outside (condenser) of the house on the side or back. And I knew you could have gas or electric heat... THATS IT! Thanks and God Bless.
I could write a book about what I would do differently.
Chapter one would be: only plan on working 18 hours in the field per week. The rest of time should be in the office doing marketing, operations, bookkeeping.
When you start off doing 60hours in the field, and you get overwhelmed and think your ready to make your first hire, you will experience lots of pain.
With good management skill you need generate more business and watch where you spend your hard earned money. Get qualified techs/installers
That is correct Zac, if there is something that I emphasized to my students, it is that, before entering the area of AC, they learn to manage what they receive in the job they are currently in and some with a low salary. and, that the company owner works much more than as an employee. 100% agree
Great video. I got to see my dad struggle in business. He definitely had some great years. He did it differently from you. He wasn’t in a truck taking service calls, installing new equipment, or TH-cam. He liked to have technicians out in the field and doing heavy commercial projects. It was difficult for him to do the estimates, project manager, pay roll, look over contracts. I never wanted to be involved in the HVAC industry. Took the college route. No debt but no job offers. I came back to the trade and plan on opening my own shop. I wish you would of went more in detail how many companies are in business today. It’s not difficult for technicians to jump from techs to business. It does take a different type of individual to have a business. It also depends on a technician. A top chiller tech, refrigeration equipment technician, controls technician will rather work for a top company.
I'm freelance. Made 175k this year.. my first year.. and had poor (very poor) money management. This year will be different. Thanks for all your good advice. I sometimes disagree with you, but not very often. Just started watching your videos a week ago. Keep it up bro. Louisville ky hvac here.
What is the bare minimum u need to start
@@obama7325 What good credit ZERO
175k total profit after all expenses?
@@wd8557 but how much debt do you have now?
@@nathanfoss766 Zero
Thanks for another great Video! I started my own company end of 2019 and still working full time but I try to soak up as much knowledge as possible, the tips you give are realistic. Thanks again @Quailty HVACR
When i worked for son one else I was working up to 70 plus hours a week, working for myself is a lot easier. Yes you have to do it all but my previous employer made us do it all basically. Managing your money is huge huge HUGE ! It’s all about wants and needs , is it a want or a need.
I have only 8 months and is not easy but I went for and I love it. I will recommend sprayed you name with people the you know and neighbors. I was one of the best install in the company for 11 years I know service to and I got my license and I went for it. I work hard almost every day, no weekends only emergencies .
What is the first step to apply for your license?
Bang on video my dude! And, you're right - Ever since i started mine my work hours have doubled but I love every minute of it.
I love owning a business. Especially when people walk by and they see a young man like myself doing carpentry work. A man, contractor or construction guy. I love it. I do want to start my own HVAC business in accordance to my already started small business, and hopefully one day, something bigger get my contractors license through the state here in Texas. May go work for another company just for experience and learning a little bit of what you can’t learn in school and then go out and do it on my own.
As a hvac estimator in Arizona it makes no since to own a Business when I’m able to work 5 days a week no on call hours and makes $250k-$300K a year selling 2.5-3 Million in sales.
@@Bryan-Hensley
Yea but your also on call unless you have guys that run it.
But to each there own.
No disrespect brotha.
@@Review-This that's the key, hire people.
My brother, don't exaggerate how much the air conditioning technician in Arizona gets per hour
What’s up man!! Love your content. I’m actually from Murfreesboro myself. My mentor taught me everything I know so I started my own business here in Salt Lake City Utah. I take for granted all the knowledge he imparted sometimes, but I’m always learning and adapting. Thanks for sharing your skills with everyone! Cheers
As a tradesman for a couple decades this is my observation: if a tradesman does not want to get tossed out like trash when they get old, then they either need to eventually work for themselves or through a union. Otherwise, it is just back breaking work for not enough pay to ever retire, and it is likely your body will be played out when you are in your 50s. So you can only retire and comfortable provide for your family by either making substantial money working for yourself or getting a retirement through a union while still making a decent buck. Union work seems less every year and not in every area, so working for yourself might be the only option. The trap is working for someone else your entire career non union for what seems like a decent buck. If you do not want to work for yourself and no union is available, I would consider state work that has a pension.
You pretty much just summed everything up. That's about it in a nutshell. The struggle I'm currently going through. I'm union. But it's getting weirder and weider by the day man. Almost feel like the union safety is almost out the door.
21 yrs in business, and no definitely not easy , employees problems become your problems , taxes , shop overhead list goes on and on. You have to have thick skin , be on top things. I agree not for everyone, I have seen companies start up and make it others fail after a few years.
I have been through the 2008, 09 bank crisis, covid economic crisis. When the next crisis that’s what people also have to think of.
White people are not being suppressed
@@ritchiegoodman4181 not sure what your referring to ?
Im working on going out on my own. The shitty hourly wages is a waste of my time. Ive been moonlighting with my secret side business. Been making monthly wages I do at my day job in one job. That is just working on a Saturday. I have been having to use my vacation days to work for myself because I have so much working right now I can hardly keep up. Just purchased an enclosed trailer I am setting up too.
Good luck bro hopefully you have much success with your business. What type of work would you say brings in the most money?
@@SombraLocs change outs.
I personally wouldn’t want to own a company cause i do enough side work that brings alote of extra money for me and the fact that I don’t handle that can’t of stress let alone the a service manager stress
I rather be a tech till I drop
And towards the end of my career be a HVACR teacher
After age 50 your bones and knees will hurt pretty bad!
@@bobboscarato1313 i got 20 more years
Still and I can feel it coming
I work for another hvac business and work on the side doing installs/service. I hate paying taxes so I dont. All cash or gold/silver for payment bahaha. Let's go brandon
fuk unca sam
It’s how much you put into it, is what you’ll get out of it
Awesome video ! Really helped humble
My idea of starting an electrical company, I’ve been in electrical for 3 years now. I start as an hvac tec on Monday, I’m super excited ! Happy holidays ! That veto pro backpack looks kick ass !
What kind of dirt bike are you riding? You should do a video on what you like to do for hobbies. Great vid!
Well i went to school for this not like many of those. Ive paid my dues crawling through attics at 120°temps, sliced my hands, while im a certiefied technician. Nobody wanted me to to see me make it. Now im gonna come back and rub it in there face. Humbly. Dont get discouraged for thlse who went to school for this. I graduated 2012 and till this time frame im barely trying to get my business going. Most of these lil boys got hand outs.🤷♂️
Graduated in 2017 and have been through so much and been with 1 company since coming out of school and while they have been incredible to me and teaching me to be the tech I am today, I feel like it's time for me to find another place to work make more $$$ now! Nothing against the company but I feel my pay is maxed out here now
Yea ive pretty much left all companies ive worked for. They were all bad🤷♂️
@@j.j.5844 yup. I got a d*ckhead supervisor. Leaving on my own soon. Nervous...
Tell me about man. I had to work at a company my school instructors told me to stay away from. I had to work there as a last resort. Sure enough they were right about that company.
@@j.j.5844 go on your own. I've learned no matter what company you work for there will ALWAYS be a d*ckhead trying to bring u down. I've tried laying low do my job and go home & that doesn't work somehow still get pulled into bullsh*t. Only people that lasts in hvac companies is the ones that kiss ass and are yes men with no balls.. I stand my ground oh well
I'm not a hvac guy but I do have a part time business and I work a lot of hours in it. The key is to have your systems set up from start. The paperwork in itself can run you back into the W2 tax bracket LOL...I agree some think since you can earn a lot of money they think running a business is easy. You can quickly despise it because you focus on the money.
I didn't start my own over money. I could work for larger AC companies and be worked to death while making good money. But those places are high stress churn bucket. Money without quality of life is no life you want. Sure it takes time to build a company, if you view anything about the HVAC business as work like making videos, blogging keeping up running the company telling yourself that if you think you are going to work remotely for a day then you can pretend to work somewhere else.
After working for a number of companies for 14 years I came up with a plan and now looking back 14 years later of working for myself. I had some really good years and I had some years that make me wonder how I survived. When you are working for someone else for a paycheck you never consider those things. Those hard years only provide flavor now to my otherwise weathered HVAC career of 28 years. Not bragging, just explaining. I am nothing special, just dedicated to those I provide service for and that in and of itself is a hard commodity to find these days.
I like the variety that HVAC provides after putting in the time and effort I approached it from the stand point of working everyday. If someone lives in my area and willing to pay for service I will go and see what I can do for them. At the end of the day HVAC Service is what runs this business. It doesn't stop to take a day off / phone it in to work remotely? If you want real work HVAC will provide you that and in person.
If you go into business for yourself, for it to be a success you have to be in it for the right reasons. Taking time off isn't one of them. You need to be able to eat, sleep and drink whatever the business is. Since I started my own I have never once taken a vacation, I work every day for 14 years. There are lulls in that time that I take breaks but they are not really planned because if I have a paying customer on the line I will drop everything at a moments notice. If you can't do that I doubt you will see any success in HVAC.
Good stuff!.. waiting to hear back from the state for my cac #s and then I'll be full sprint on my own. In the meantime I'm paying myself to learn the ins and outs of the business aspect of things and networking in my area. Great content brother. 👍
I wish people would consider all these factors before saying "Just start your own company" I don't wanna go into business for myself because I'm not interested in sales nor managing or developing a business plan. I realized im happy being about to clock out and go home. I am thinking of quitting the trade because of Low Wages in this trade.
Be blessed! Love that kid, he's going to take over dads business...
Good video by all means. I am happy to work for a company that way company phone shuts off when off duty. I have weekends off and no stress. I got benefits, van, retirement, etc. If i open my own company i will go under pressure and at the same lose sleep and be worried about this months rent.
What hvac company gives you weekends off??? Lol
@@AllTattedUp13 i have weekends off and had to work hard for it. Been 9 yrs in the company and i got it off. It's called seniority!
@@AllTattedUp13 the company I work for is implementing no on call for the techs in the next couple years
I owned my own company I was nice. I went back to work for the union and do some side work and I like that better a great deal less responsibility and I think I do better now in terms of personal income,
biggest tip in my opinion is to get on with another company and learn estimating this will help your company as you wont price yourself out of the market and be competetive.
one other big thing is that i learned that it is all about who you know and how much purchasing power you have, your equipment costs could very well cover your labor for a whole job.
Having owning my business for 14 years now We are really busy but we have had a lot of issues finding team members to grow. We have given up a lot of business this year because of that. It can be a grind everyday and yes you do work many more hours.
Is that because there isn't enough people in the trade or because you don't pay enough?
@@didafm well Maybe if you were in the trade you would figure out that there is a huge shortage of qualified people. I happen to have an add paying up to 50 an hour for a qualified person. Up in the northwest we have a real shortage of trades personal. Schools have been closed for going on two years so no hvac classes at the community college. Plus people my age are also getting out of the trade because they are tired of being worked to death. The sunbelt they seem to have a lot of labor available but not many turn key people.
@@integratedairsolutionsllc.9438 Fair enough. I actually just started working in sheet metal trade in northern Canada. Im 25 years old .....i only make $20+ 9.6% holiday vacation pay
@@didafm If it is something you enjoy stick with it. I wish we had better programs here. Service can be rough as you work very long hours. Most companies have so much work not enough people.
@@integratedairsolutionsllc.9438 Fair enough. Like i said i just started. Im not even indentured in apprenticeship yet...
Your video here makes YOUR mindset apparent. Stop trying to project your issues onto others trying to better theirselves lifes.
Thank you for the video! I read the title was like what lol. Then I saw your points and said Yepp I agree lol. But good video it is helpful. I’m about to finally start my first semester for construction management. Years and years in the making, I’m super thankful it’s finally here. I always love watching your videos. Merry Christmas Man!
Hey man great video! I'm about to start up my own company and ease my way into it. Any advice on software that could help me? Business, load calculation, duct design, etc?
My idea is to get my plumbing and electrical license as well then flip houses/rent them out. Not service, except with friends, family, and a few customers I currently help outside of my companies area.
I had my own company. I moved to the south and I'm working for another company. I miss my baby. Once I pay off some debt I will be back at it. I also miss being able to take my 8 year old son with me to work some days
Try scotch bright on flame sensors, works beautifully.
Balance is key to working less.
Learn to say no and find a reliable company that your customers and you can trust to fill in for you when can not make it.
Question, i noticed that you are not using Trublue hoses anymore or as common, why is that?
I do work less… and make more money….
These people always try to convince you not to be their competitors.
True.
True
Not first couple years
@@heatncool is that your experience? It’s not mine
@@barronweir123 😂 you look like a hustler in your picture btw lol 😆
What a cheap shot pulling up at the end of the video in a $80,000 Denali pick up truck. That sends a good message go into business and buy a $80,000 pick up truck to start out, good idea. there’s only one reason to go in the business for yourself and that’s to make more money than you could working for somebody else.
Watch his prior videos and maybe you’ll learn a thing or 2
Personally my biggest struggle growing my company is keeping my integrity and honor. When I hire I am faced with a choice...to pretend like my technician is competent and honest and just charge the customer for my technician's incompetence or swallow the cost and fire him and be back to doing everything myself. Part my fault and part is a societal problem, incompetence and dishones zombies walking all around us.
Good job and advice Zack, Merry Christmas.
We live in the same neighborhood, I go to that RaceTrac on Old Fort all the time haha.
See, I couldn't envision myself getting into this for what I'd *earn*. The extrinsic advantages -- payin the bills, affording parts should I need them, the like -- are never going to outweigh the intrinsic ones: Providing stand-behind, economical AC repair for those struggling to make ends meet and knowing my best work helped somebody else live better. But, yeah, too many idealize and romanticize the idea of doing this for themselves without understanding that you're always going to need a rock-solid business plan, proper training, and decent representation.
I have 7 years in so far going on 8 pretty soild tech started in install I'm kinda waiting till I'm 35 to start my own thing but it is my goal
Running a business is a entire other profession. You could be a great technician but that doesnt mean you can run a company. It is very complex and you will go years without making a profit and you better have some funds available to survive. You quickly find out that having steady pay check is muuuch better than not knowing if you can pay your mortgage/ rent.
Anybody that wants to start they own business should. If you fail its not the end of the world. Better to say I tried than to say I should have done it. Maybe you will be one of those companies that makes it.
Go to the new construction sites and hand out your business information to the guys runnin those houses. Theres alot of hvac companies that take those jobs and cant handle them because they got other work goin on. They want all that for themselves. I know it from experience.
True, I agree with you a 100%. Positive attitude is a must!
Also good manners and patience are extremely important.
@@j.j.5844 I've been told to stay away from tract houses.
Keep on keepin on Tennessee shout outs from Texas
Just got licensed and hope to get the business started soon
His fortune cookie really meant hand the keys over to the Denali 😂
You're title is misleading, It's not for weak men , owning a business, I've seen my dad put in countless unpaid hours in computer work that would discourage sane men. But, once you see the potential of being your own boss, and potentially expanding you're family business, nothing beats that. Greetings form OR
I recommend to anyone who wants to succeed, nothing is compared to be your own boss, GO FOR IT AND GOOD LOCK
Make sure you follow Quality's advise; get good HVAC books, etc. also learn the business side of hvac. Most folks fail due to lack of training.
Business administration knowledge and customers.
That's all you need
🤣🤣🤣
I’ve been really determined on getting back into school to get my high school diploma so I can do hvac, if I goto hvac school will I learn how to do most of everything for this job? Very nervous that I won’t be good at it but I feel like it would be a very rewarding job and something I’d be proud of my self for
very true
Extreamley hard to own company some years its more money working for a good paying company with my qualifications. Good luck everyone !
Forget HVAC. You need to be a videographer. Nice shots in the video.
I could not agree more. You are on point sir!
Your son is listening to literally everything you say. He’s taking note.
Limit how much you eat out, packing a lunch or a snack for the day Saves Many $$$....
I saw the Ramsey building, have you done his program? Thanks for your videos.
How can i start in hvac im confused if i should go to tradeschool or thru an apprenticeship?
Dang, I love Panda Express.
Informative video, thanks.
What kind of bike you got? Had to take a notice. I finally lic last year and it’s been great and a process. Your vids are great thanks for your efforts
What do you guys recommend for more work,just started my company and was wondering if things like angie leads actually work well for us HVAC guys. Dallas TX?
Sorry I can't help; I retired before social media and many of the new tools available but as Quality Air man said Business Cards; flyers and knocking on doors. If you're after commercial work contact managers, etc. Use small local papers and put ads with coupons. Also have the best answering service you can get. Have them page you and it will help you along the way; some answering services offer 800 numbers. It works. Make sure your co name is registered and incorporate early to protect your property!
@@bobboscarato1313 thank you sir!
I’m currently using Angie list and it works pretty well. Helps build clients. The drawback is the service leads fee but once you gain that client you keep ‘em. So all in all it’s worth it until it snowballs
@@garthcastro1208 Merry Xmas!
Owning your own company is not for everyone. If your a top feeder at a shop your at now, maybe it's a good idea. Most guys out there are either good installers or good services tech. Very rare to be both. Another thing is communication and professionalism, those things you can't teach. I started my own thing here in CA 3 months ago and I'm steady.
I just saw the News this evening and 40% of the people there are leaving California!
@@bobboscarato1313 my friend just moved to Texas. I'm doing OK financially so I'll be here for now. Hate democratic ways and all bs here but I aint moving to the desert or Antarctica. Lol
Thanks for making these videos
I always learn a lot from you.
you are 110% correct !!!!!
Absolutely love the titans hat on little man. #TitanUp
Do you live in Tennessee and if so what part?
Always been in the Union. Don’t think I could make what I make as a 1 man shop.
You'd have to work more hours and you'd still be left without benefits, if that's your thing.
Stay in the union. Did my last six years in the IBEW after contracting for 25 yrs, Wish I had joined in 1969 when I started my business.
Many non-union jobs are good but the pay may be less; you need to hustle!
Any books you recommend on money management and starting businesses?
NOLO publishers at your local public library. They have great books on practical law, accounting and business. Free!
damnit. you're spot on in this video. I got nothing critical to say about it. Good job!
Starting one now, would love to jump on a call with you if you have time looks like you have a nice operation goin
Nothing wrong with wanting to work less and making more money after 25 years on the field I think I done plenty to get the point!!
Passes Dave Ramsey, talks about budgeting, eats fast food twice lol
Everything you said was true though, I like the brick and mortar I work for there is value in that certainly, God bless!
Good job bro your work 👍
My work ac technician
When will you be announcing the Winner?
I just like fixing things. If I get paid even better.
Me too. I guess that makes us suckers.
It’s hard period. Running your own company takes a shit ton of energy
One thing I noticed you didn't cover is insurance its a must for starting out
100 bucks a month big deal lol
And just out of curiosity, the service you did first of how much the cost is, I'm starting but it is difficult for me to charge because sometimes most of the people are Hispanic in the area where I am. Greetings and God bless you.
Where you at? Why is it difficult for you to charge?
why customers sometimes want to haggle or offer to pay a little less
@@LeoMessi-fc9jg You need lessons in salesmanship; explain to consumers things. If they haggle ask them: "what do you want me to take out?" They'll pay full price.
You only need to take off 3 screws on that train unit btw
The key is to work your as s off for 20 years. Be smart with investing and then retire early.
Love the Ramsey Solutions headquarters!! Haha
I thought you said you started a new job as a project manager and quit your company?
Great explanation brother
I would like to thank all the feedback comments I found them as useful as the video if not more so (sorry 😉).
Thanks for all the advice
Well said and key points taken.
On the finance part. Get in touch with Dave Ramsey
I have my own company. I work less and make more money. If you can't figure out how to do that there is a problem. Maybe your living to high.
Bro exactly I don’t even have experience yet but starting school and working for yourself is easily attainable just marketing the field itself will bring you customers
@@cashaddictnell it's all in what you want. We don't all have the same values, talent or ability. Thankfully when working for yourself you have more control.
2:49 Ramsey Solutions building 😯