HVAC Networking Groups: Growing with Associations & Partners 

Staying connected and informed is a must for success, no matter how long you’ve been in the HVAC industry. HVAC networking groups, including associations and partners, can help you do just that.  

By joining these groups of HVAC professionals, you can access valuable resources, learn new skills, and connect with peers and industry experts. Here’s how HVAC networking groups can help you—and your business—grow.  

What Is a Trade Association? 

If you’re an HVAC professional, you’ve likely heard about trade associations. But what exactly are they? And how can they help you grow your business?  

In a nutshell, a trade association is an organization that represents the interests of a specific industry or profession. This includes professionals in the HVAC industry. 

Benefits of Becoming a Member of an HVAC Association 

Joining an HVAC trade association can be a smart move for professionals in the industry. Here are some specific benefits of becoming a member: 

Networking opportunities. 

HVAC associations are largely HVAC networking groups. They offer a great platform to connect with other professionals in the industry. This includes contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and suppliers.  

Events organized by your HVAC association help you expand your professional network. This lets you gain valuable insights from peers and industry experts alike.  

Staying up to date with industry trends.  

The HVAC industry is constantly evolving. New technologies, regulations, and best practices are always emerging.  

Joining an HVAC association helps you keep up with the latest industry trends. Associations can also offer industry data to help you make informed business decisions. 

Access to potential partnerships and employees. 

Industry associations make it easy for members to collaborate with other pros. For example, the Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA) offers a member directory.  

Connecting with manufacturers, suppliers, and others through the association can:  

• Expand your business opportunities 
• Find and attract higher-quality employees 

• Potentially increase your revenue 

Educational opportunities.  

HVAC associations can also offer educational resources. This includes workshops, webinars, and training programs.  

By taking advantage of these educational opportunities, you can improve your skills. Think, HVAC design, installation, and maintenance.  

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Access to industry leaders. 

By joining an HVAC association, you don’t just connect to your peers. You can also gain access to thought leaders and influencers in your industry.  

Advocacy and representation. 

On industry-related issues, HVAC associations often lobby on behalf of their members. This includes regulations, standards, and policies.  

By becoming a member, you can help shape the industry’s future and ensure your voice is heard. 

Access to industry resources.  

HVAC networking groups can also give members exclusive resources, such as:  

• Trade publications 
• Job boards 
• Supplier directories  

Taking advantage of these resources helps you stay informed. They can also help you find new business opportunities. 

In short, joining an HVAC trade association can help grow your business in the competitive HVAC industry. 

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Top HVAC Associations You Should Be a Part Of 

Looking to join a network of HVAC professionals, but don’t know where to start? Here are some of the top HVAC associations in the industry. 

The Air Movement and Control Association International (AMCA) 

The AMCA is an international organization that caters to the air movement and control industry.  

The AMCA focuses on advancing the knowledge, growth, and integrity of the industry. It’s considered one of the most highly regarded organizations in the field. 

Cost: $5,000 annually 

Benefits: An AMCA membership offers many benefits, including:  

• Access to peer networking opportunities 
• Online resources 
• Engineering conferences 
• Discounts on testing and training resources.  

Members can also take advantage of AMCA’s testing labs. This helps ensure the quality of their products. 

Best for: Membership is ideal for companies that design, fabricate, assemble, and sell AMCA products. This includes manufacturers, resellers, and suppliers operating in the air movement and control industry.  

By joining AMCA, members gain access to a network of like-minded professionals. This lets members stay current with industry developments and promote their products.  

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 

ASHRAE is a professional organization founded in 1894. Its mission is to advance HVAC/R systems construction and design. This trade association has over 50,000 members from more than 132 countries.  

ASHRAE is a globally recognized authority in a few industries, including:  

• Indoor air quality 
• Energy efficiency 
• Building systems 
• Refrigeration 

To join ASHRAE, you need 12 years of education, professional licenses, and work experience. 

Cost: $240 annually 

Benefits: Perks of an ASHRAE membership include:  

• Access to ASHRAE’s technical information, education, and networking opportunities 
• One complimentary Winter or Annual Conference registration 
• A subscription to the monthly ASHRAE Journal 

• Exclusive member pricing for publications, courses, and conference registrations 
• The ability to hold office and vote at the chapter, regional, and societal levels.  

Best for: ASHRAE membership is best suited for:  

• Building servicing engineers 
• Mechanical contractors 

• Mechanical service contractors 
• Architects 
• Building owners 

ASHRAE is an excellent fit for those who value professional development. The trade association fosters this with its vast network and industry knowledge. 

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) 

ASME is a global organization dedicated to promoting multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences. Established in 1880, ASME has over 85,000 members in more than 135 countries. The organization trains more than 5,000 people annually through its Learning and Development program.  

Cost: The membership cost for ASME varies depending on several factors. There are also a few different membership types you can choose from. The final price of your membership will be calculated during the signup process. 

Benefits: ASME offers a wide range of benefits to its members, including:  

• Access to the latest developments in a broad range of engineering topics 
• Certification opportunities 

• Access to resources, events, and committee meetings 
• Discounted courses, books, and journals 
• Conferences 
• A subscription to the award-winning Mechanical Engineering Magazine 

Best for: HVAC businesses that want to stay on the cutting edge of engineering and technology. 

ASME gives you access to new developments in many engineering topics relevant to the HVAC industry. So it’s an ideal platform for professionals who want to advance their knowledge. 

It’s best suited for those involved in designing, manufacturing, installing, and servicing HVAC systems. But it’s also a great fit for those working with related sectors. For example, energy, robotics, and mechanical servicing industries. 

ASME also offers training and certification programs. This helps HVAC professionals show their commitment to public safety and quality. 

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The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) 

ACCA is a non-profit association that serves professionals in the HVAC/R industry.  

ACCA provides networking opportunities, education, and advocacy services to support members’ businesses. The association represents the interests of HVAC/R companies, independent contractors, and customers. 

Cost: ACCA offers three membership tiers for contractors: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Each has their own price point: 

• The Gold tier is $5,000 annually  
• The Silver tier costs $1,800 annually 

• The Bronze tier is $750 annually or $65 per month 

Benefits: ACCA membership gives you valuable tools and resources so you can grow your business and connect with peers in the industry.  

Members can access hundreds of business and technical topic videos. They can also connect with over 10,000 HVAC/R professionals on the ACCA Contractor Forum.  

Additionally, ACCA offers exclusive events for members. 

Best for: ACCA membership suits anyone associated with the HVAC industry, including:  

• Contractors 
• Manufacturers 
• Wholesalers 
• Suppliers 
• School members 

• Utility companies 
• Facilities operators 
• Those doing business with HVAC contractors 

Membership is especially beneficial for independent HVAC contractors and small businesses looking to connect with potential clients and peers. 

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Next Steps: How to Join a Trade Association 

So you think joining an HVAC trade association is the right move for your career. Here are some practical steps you can take to get started:  

• Do your research. Take the time to research the different HVAC trade associations in your area or industry. Read about their mission, values, and the membership benefits they offer. 
• Choose the right association. Consider your goals and priorities when browsing associations. Do you want to focus on networking opportunities? Educational resources? What about advocacy and representation? Look for an association that aligns with your interests and offers the services you need. 
• Check the membership requirements. Make sure you meet the requirements set by the association before you apply. These may include holding specific licenses or certifications. You might also need to pay a membership fee or have a certain number of years in the industry. 

• Complete the application process. Once you’ve found an association you’re interested in, complete the application process. This may involve submitting your professional credentials and paying any required fees. 
• Attend events and get involved. Take advantage of the networking and educational opportunities the association offers. Attend events, join committees, and participate in the association’s activities. This will help you get the most out of your membership and build valuable connections in the industry. 

By following these steps, you can join an HVAC trade association and start reaping the benefits of membership. Remember: You can join more than one association. Just make sure the advantages outweigh the annual dues! 

Explore HVAC Networking Groups Today 

HVAC networking groups offer so many benefits to your business. 

HVAC associations provide a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders. They also help you stay up to date with trends and innovations.  

By joining a group, you can take advantage of exclusive opportunities to help you succeed in a competitive industry. Start exploring your options today—and take your HVAC business to the next level. 

(Looking for even more ways to grow your business? Check out our article on HVAC business coaching.)

About the Author 
Jim is the Vice President of Sales for Service Nation. He has worked in the HVAC industry for over five decades. His experience includes everything from sales and marketing to consulting and training. He lives with his wife in Dallas, Texas.