Local air con trade counter and parts store

Local air conditioning installers, HVAC and refrigeration technicians, electricians, builders and property maintenance companies.

Margin on equipment and parts sold on trade terms, with account customers billed monthly. Delivery fees, ordering in special items and supplier rebates can add to this.

• Product knowledge of split systems and parts
• Stock control and ordering
• Trade sales and account management

• Refrigerant sales need specific authorisation, so check with the Australian Refrigeration Council before you stock any
• Stock is a big upfront cost, so start narrow and avoid slow-moving lines
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus insurance for stock and your vehicle
• Check zoning and permitted use with the local council before committing to premises
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire counter or delivery staff (state schemes differ)
• Credit risk when giving trade accounts: set limits and payment terms

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on your stock, premises and delivery vehicle. Stock is a big upfront cost, so start narrow and avoid slow-moving lines.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $100,000, depending on your range, location and how many installers open trade accounts. This is revenue before stock, rent, staff and other costs.

Check with the Australian Refrigeration Council before stocking refrigerant, as it needs specific authorisation. Also check zoning with your council, insurance for liability, stock and vehicle, workers compensation if you hire staff, and set credit limits for trade accounts.