HVAC Lead Generation: How To Get Them in 2025

Lead generation is make-or-break for HVAC companies—and in 2025, the competition is tougher than ever. 61% of marketers say generating traffic and leads is their biggest challenge. 

Whether you’re just launching or trying to boost your customer base, your strategy needs to be clear, consistent, and tailored to how people actually search for HVAC services in your area.

In this guide:

• 11 proven HVAC lead generation strategies
• Real-world tips for attracting and converting clients
• Trusted tools and platforms to help you grow
• Internal resources for marketing, pricing, and tools

1. Use Lead Generation Platforms Wisely

Lead gen platforms like Thumbtack can be a helpful boost, especially if you’re just getting started or want to reach new service areas.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Track your ROI. Not every platform will deliver the same value. Monitor cost-per-lead and conversion rates closely.
• Respond quickly. Leads on these platforms are often sold to multiple contractors. The faster you respond, the better your odds.
• Vet the platform. Look for reviews and comparisons, like Phonexa’s guide to the top HVAC lead platforms.

Related reading: How to Start an HVAC Business

2. Build Trust Through Content Marketing

Content marketing positions you as a helpful expert in your field.

What to post:

• Blog articles like “How to prep your AC for summer” or “What’s the best HVAC system for small homes?”
• Case studies and before/after photos
• Tips and answers to common HVAC questions

Top tip: Content also boosts your SEO. More helpful content = more chances of appearing in Google when a homeowner searches for a solution.

Related reading: HVAC Marketing Strategy: How To Increase Profits in 2025 (Link June article 13)

3. Show Up (and Show Personality) on Social Media

Don’t get caught up in thinking social media is just for dance trends and updating your friends. When used right, it’s a free tool for building trust and generating leads.

Post ideas that work:

• Behind-the-scenes videos
• Customer shout-outs
• Maintenance reminders
• Meet-the-team photos

Be sure to:

• Add your social media links to your appointment emails
• Create and verify your Facebook and Instagram profiles
• Link to your website and Google profile

Pro tip: Companies that consistently post can see up to 5 times more engagement than those that don’t.

4. Optimize for Local SEO

If someone in your area types “AC repair near me” into Google, will your business appear? Local Search Engine Optimization makes sure you’re visible to nearby customers actively searching for HVAC services.

Alt text: Close-up of a laptop displaying website analytics data, including line graphs, pie charts, and user behavior metrics used to track marketing performance.

Checklist to boost your local SEO:

• Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile, including business hours, services, and contact information.
• Add your HVAC company to trusted local directories like Yelp, Angi, Nextdoor, and Bing Places.
• Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews and make sure to respond to each one (good or bad).
• Create a separate web page for each of your services: like heating repair, duct cleaning, or heat pump installation.
• Build backlinks by partnering with nearby contractors or suppliers and linking to each other’s websites.

Local SEO is a data-driven strategy that supports real-time visibility and long-term growth. It’s also one of the most cost-effective ways for small businesses to generate leads.

Related reading: HVAC Company Names: Ideas for Your New Branding

5. Run Paid Google Ads (Strategically)

If you want to drive traffic fast, paid ads are the way to go — but they only work if you understand how to target them effectively. HVAC contractors can choose from several formats that prioritize conversion rates.

Best ad types for HVAC contractors:

• Search Ads: Appear at the top of Google results when people search for services like “air conditioner replacement.”
• Call-Only Ads: Designed to generate phone calls directly from the ad.
• Local Service Ads (LSAs): These show in Google Maps and you only pay for qualified leads.

To increase performance:

• Run A/B tests on different headlines, offers, and landing pages.
• Set clear goals (calls, form fills, quote requests).
• Monitor ad spend and adjust bids weekly based on performance.

Related reading: HVAC Pricing Guide: How to Charge Confidently

6. Build Your Online Review Portfolio

Online reviews are today’s word of mouth — and they directly impact your HVAC company’s visibility and credibility. 

Did you know that 98% of people read online reviews for local businesses, and 81% use Google to evaluate local service providers.

How to grow your reviews:

• Send an email or SMS after every job asking for feedback, and include direct links to your review profiles.
• Automate the process using follow-up tools built into your CRM or HVAC software.
• Share positive reviews on your social media platforms or feature them in blog posts.

Strong online reviews can improve local search rankings, build trust, and drive more traffic to your website. They also offer invaluable insight into your customer service experience and how your products or services are perceived.

Related reading: HVAC Business Insurance: What You Need to Know

7. Launch a YouTube Channel

Videos help potential customers see your expertise before they hire you. You don’t need fancy gear — just a phone, a quiet space, and some HVAC know-how.

YouTube content ideas:

• Maintenance tips (e.g., “How to clean your AC filter”)
• Seasonal guides (e.g., “Winter furnace checklist”)
• Explainer videos (“What is a heat pump and how does it work?”)
• Customer testimonials

Videos are great for both SEO and social media repurposing.

8. Outsource Your Marketing Tasks

If you don’t have time to post, write, or run ads, hiring a freelancer can help. You can find affordable support on platforms like:

• Upwork
• Fiverr

Focus on freelancers with HVAC or home service marketing experience.

9. Set Realistic Lead Generation Goals

Not all marketing efforts lead to instant results. Break your strategy down into short- and long-term goals:

Examples:

• “We want 10 new customer calls a week from Google Business.”
• “We want to add 15 new reviews this month.”
• “We’ll test one new platform per quarter.”

This helps you measure what’s working and where to adjust.

10. Tap Into Networking Opportunities

Word-of-mouth still matters. Get involved in your community:

• Sponsor a youth sports team or neighborhood event
• Offer referral incentives to existing customers
• Join local business groups and trade associations

And if you’re reaching out cold to potential partners or commercial clients, try this tip: include a case study or testimonial in your intro email.

11. Hire a Marketing Agency

If you’re ready to scale and want a done-for-you marketing strategy, consider working with an agency that knows HVAC.

Top-rated options include:

• Plumbing & HVAC SEO
• Blue Corona
• Scorpion

They can handle everything from SEO to paid ads to website design.

Turn Leads Into Paying Clients with the Right Tools

Getting leads is one thing — converting them into paying customers is another. Use HVAC business software like Invoice Fly’s Invoice Maker to:

• Send professional estimates and invoices
• Track payments
• Automate follow-ups

It helps you stay organized and turn interest into income.

Related reading: Best HVAC Tools To Use in 2025

Keep the Leads Coming

Lead generation in the HVAC industry is about consistency, strategy, and trust. With the right mix of online and local tactics, you can stay booked and build a reputation that fuels long-term growth.

Stay focused, test what works for your area, and don’t be afraid to ask for help — whether that’s hiring a freelancer, an agency, or using the right digital tools.