HVAC shipments rebound in April, up 5.5% year-to-date

U.S. shipments of central air conditioners and heat pumps rose slightly in April, compared to last year, according to AHRI data released on Friday, which reflects activity from two months prior. 

The big picture: The figures mark a positive start to the second quarter, after shipments declined in both February and March. 

What’s happening: Manufacturers shipped 6.4 percent more air conditioners and heat pumps than in April 2024, driven largely by heat pump shipments, in particular, which jumped 19 percent. 

• Spot check: Total year-to-date shipments, from January through April, are now up 5.5 percent year-over-year. 

Zoom out: HVAC distributors reported similar momentum during the same month, with sales growing 6.8 percent compared to last April, according to HARDI data released in early June. 

• Why it matters: Distributor sales are often a better proxy for contractor sales than manufacturer shipments, since there’s typically a lag between the two. 

What’s next: May’s shipment figures will be published during the first week of July.