Every year, over 130 million air conditioners are sold worldwide.
By 2022, 37% of households were equipped with this appliance, compared with 20% in 2000.
By 2021, there will be 1.5 billion air conditioners installed worldwide.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), this figure could triple by 2050, especially as temperatures continue to rise due to global warming.
The French air-conditioning market is also showing notable growth, having exceeded 20 billion euros in 2021.
Given this trend, investing in an air conditioning business could prove lucrative and profitable.
To reduce the risk of failure, it makes sense to join a franchise network.
As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from personalized support and can take advantage of a proven business model.
Here’s what you need to know before embarking on this entrepreneurial project.
Setting up an air conditioning business: how to conduct effective market research?
When setting up a new business, market research is a fundamental step in assessing the potential of a commercial project.
It aims to check that the market is not saturated by competition.
This analysis will help you find the best positioning and design a relevant offer, thus increasing your chances of success.
You’ll gain invaluable information for estimating your company’s sales potential, identifying your target market and choosing appropriate distribution channels.
Market research for an air conditioning supplier generally includes a sector analysis.
This enables us to understand the main market trends and identify the major players.
Next comes the demand study, which examines consumer purchasing habits in the target market.
This analysis takes into account various aspects: customer profiles, expectations, budgets and purchasing behavior.
If your target market includes company managers and owners of commercial premises, they are generally looking for reliable, efficient air conditioning systems to provide a comfortable environment for their employees.
In the construction sector, for example, your customers will have specific needs depending on the equipment required for their new projects.
This study also includes an examination of the regulations and conditions required to operate your business.
You’ll need to look at a number of issues, such as the licenses and permits you’ll need to obtain, or the qualifications you’ll require.
Once completed, your study should give you an overview of untapped business opportunities and enable you to draw informed conclusions.
Choosing the right legal form for your air conditioning company
Choosing the legal structure for your air conditioning business is a key decision that will influence its operation and development.
Although the status of auto entrepreneur may seem attractive for starting out, it can quickly limit your growth.
A sole proprietorship offers greater flexibility while remaining simple to set up.
However, if you are planning to form a partnership or obtain external financing, setting up a company such as a SAS/SASU or a SARL/EURL would be more appropriate.
The SAS/SASU has the advantage of flexible administrative management and advantageous profit collection, while the SARL/EURL, although stricter, offers a less costly social status for the manager.
It’s important to note that joint-stock companies, such as the SAS or SARL, offer liability limited to the contributions made, protecting your personal assets in the event of financial difficulties.
They also allow you to welcome investors, thereby broadening your financing options.
Your final choice will depend on your long-term objectives, your initial financial situation and your vision for the business.
How do you draw up a business plan for an air conditioning company?
Drawing up a business plan is a fundamental step in setting up a company.
This document, also known as a business plan, helps the entrepreneur structure his project and make informed decisions.
The business plan plays a central role in validating your project, demonstrating its financial viability and overall coherence.
It’s this document that will enable you to obtain bank loans or convince investors to support you in your endeavors.
In the case of a franchise, the franchisor will usually help you draw up the business plan, drawing on his experience and knowledge of the market to guide you through this important task.
What qualifications do I need to open an air conditioning business?
To open an air conditioning business, you need a recognized diploma in the field.
The options are varied and depend on the level of education required.
At CAP level, you can train to become a refrigeration and air-conditioning installer or a heating installer.
For the Bac level, there are several choices, including the Bac pro Technicien en installation des systèmes énergétiques et climatiques. or the BP in refrigeration and air conditioning.
Higher levels offer more advanced training, such as BTS Fluides, énergies, domotique, BTS Maintenance des systèmes or DUT Génie thermique et énergie.
Whichever diploma you choose, you’ll need a certificate in refrigerant handling.
It is important to note that it is not possible to set up an air conditioning company without the founder or one of the partners holding one of these recognized diplomas.
What does a refrigeration and air conditioning company do, and what skills are required for an air conditioner?
Specialist air conditioning companies play a crucial role in a variety of sectors, offering installation, maintenance and repair services for a wide range of air conditioning systems.
These professionals work on a wide range of equipment, from residential air conditioners to industrial air conditioning systems and temperature control units for vehicles.
Their clientele includes both private individuals and businesses, notably in the food distribution, catering and food processing industries.
Air conditioners need to master a range of technical skills, including fluid mechanics, home automation, renewable energies and energy performance.
In addition to these technical skills, this profession demands special personal qualities.
Rigor is essential for handling complex and potentially dangerous installations.
Flexibility and availability are essential to respond to emergencies, sometimes outside normal working hours.
Adaptability is crucial in view of the diversity of assignments, while constant technological monitoring is necessary to keep up to date in a constantly evolving sector.
Finally, the nature of the work, often carried out in varied environmental conditions, requires good physical fitness.
These skills and qualities make the air conditioner a versatile professional, capable of meeting the varied challenges of the air conditioning field.
Opening an air conditioning business: franchises to invest in
The air-conditioning market offers great opportunities for entrepreneurs wishing to launch a franchise.
Several brands stand out in this sector, each with its own specific features.
MACLEM, a pioneer in its field, focuses on air conditioning, heat pumps and renewable energies.
The company is looking for candidates with commercial or technical experience, and above all entrepreneurial motivation.
With a personal contribution of €9,000 and an entry fee of €20,000, MACLEM is aiming for sales of €780,000 after two years in business.
The France Hygiène Ventilation franchise stands out for its focus on ventilation system maintenance. The brand relies on in-depth training for its franchisees, and welcomes a wide range of profiles, emphasizing team spirit and sales skills. The initial investment is more substantial, with a capital contribution of €15,000 and entry fees of €16,000, for estimated sales of €240,000 after two years.
Kaltea specializes in the sale and installation of air conditioning and heat pumps for private customers.
The brand emphasizes customer support and product quality.
With an initial investment of €34,000 and an entry fee of €14,500, Kaltea is aiming for sales of €600,000 within two years.
In conclusion, the air-conditioning sector offers real opportunities for entrepreneurs wishing to launch a buoyant business.
Whether you decide to set up your own business or join a franchise network, it’s vital to be well prepared.
Solid training, advanced technical skills and the right personal qualities are the keys to success in this field.
