In the crowded HVAC market, finding new revenue streams is critical for businesses looking to grow and differentiate themselves. Yet many firms remain solely focused on comfort cooling, potentially overlooking a parallel business opportunity that builds on their existing skills. In this article, Chris Ferriday from Atlas Copco explores why HVAC companies should consider diversifying into process cooling, an area that can draw on their established expertise while offering access to higher-margin projects, longer-term contracts, and deeper client relationships.

Process cooling refers to the technology used to manage heat generated by industrial processes. It is essential in sectors like manufacturing, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, where precise temperature control is critical to maintaining product quality and operational efficiency. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, which are primarily designed for human comfort, process cooling solutions are engineered to handle the intense thermal loads generated by production machinery, chemical reactions, and high-speed manufacturing lines. This makes them vital for industries where even minor temperature fluctuations can compromise product quality or disrupt production schedules.

For businesses (and people) that understand the principles of heat exchange, refrigerant circuits, and system diagnostics, this is a logical next step. Many of the core skills required for process cooling – including system commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting – are directly transferable from the HVAC sector.

Process cooling systems also tend to have longer lifecycles and more complex technical requirements, enhancing the potential for long-term customer relationships. This is a crucial consideration for HVAC businesses looking to escape the seasonal peaks and troughs of comfort cooling work, where demand can be heavily influenced by weather and economic conditions.

Yet the barriers to entry are often perceived as high. Process cooling systems are more technically demanding, requiring a deeper understanding of thermal dynamics and industrial processes. However, this knowledge gap is often less daunting than it appears, particularly for firms already experienced in larger HVAC installations. Many of the core skills, such as system diagnostics, refrigerant management, and heat transfer calculations, are directly transferable. This technical foundation means HVAC businesses can quickly gain credibility in the process cooling sector, leveraging their existing expertise to secure high-value contracts.

For those willing to make the leap, the rewards can be substantial. Expanding into this sector can open doors to industries as diverse as automotive, food and beverage, plastics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.