HVAC Distributor Sales Up 6.7% in July, Best Month This Year

Industry News
Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International reported on September 3 that distributor sales jumped 6.7% in July compared to the same month last year. That marks the strongest monthly gain of 2026 on a comparable billing-day basis. The 12-month sales growth rate through July now sits at 2.7%. HARDI noted that hot weather drove much of the increase. Underlying demand for equipment remains weak across most markets.
The July bump reflects weather-driven cooling demand. The uneven pattern suggests you shouldn't count on consistent sales volumes heading into fall.
Check your inventory levels now. Adjust ordering plans based on baseline demand rather than July's weather spike.
Key Takeaways:
- July distributor sales rose 6.7%, the strongest monthly gain in 2026
- 12-month sales growth through July reached 2.7%
- Hot weather boosted numbers, but underlying demand remains subdued