Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors
Size Standard: $19 million
NAICS code 238220 covers Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors, another highly active specialty trade in government contracting. This industry includes establishments primarily engaged in installing and servicing plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning equipment, including ductwork and refrigeration.
Government facilities require extensive HVAC and plumbing work for new construction, renovation, and ongoing maintenance. Federal buildings need efficient climate control systems. Medical facilities (VA hospitals, military medical centers) have specialized HVAC requirements. Data centers require precision cooling. Energy efficiency upgrades create ongoing opportunities.
Contractors under NAICS 238220 must have licensed plumbers and HVAC technicians, refrigerant handling certifications (EPA 608), and safety programs. Understanding government energy efficiency requirements, including energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs), is valuable. Davis-Bacon applies to federal projects.
The $19 million size standard is accessible for small HVAC and plumbing contractors. Set-aside opportunities are common. Maintenance contracts provide recurring revenue opportunities. Small businesses can compete for standalone mechanical contracts and as subcontractors on larger projects.
- General Services Administration (GSA)
- Department of Defense (DoD)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- HVAC System Installation
- Plumbing System Construction
- Medical Facility HVAC
- Data Center Cooling Systems
- Energy Efficiency Retrofits
These certifications can help you compete for set-aside contracts under NAICS 238220:
What is NAICS code 238220 used for?
NAICS 238220 covers plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contracting for government facilities, including new installation, renovation, and maintenance of mechanical systems.
What is the size standard for NAICS 238220?
The SBA size standard for NAICS 238220 is $19 million in average annual receipts, the same as electrical contracting and other specialty trades.
What certifications are needed for NAICS 238220 contracts?
Contractors need state plumbing and HVAC licenses, EPA 608 refrigerant certification, and may need specialized certifications for medical facility HVAC or data center cooling. Security clearances may be required.
What are energy efficiency opportunities under NAICS 238220?
Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs), HVAC upgrades for federal buildings, energy audits, and renewable heating/cooling systems (geothermal, heat pumps) are growing opportunities.
How can small HVAC contractors compete for government work?
Small businesses can pursue set-aside contracts, maintenance service agreements, GSA Schedule contracts, and subcontracting opportunities on larger construction projects. Medical and data center specialization is valuable.
Businesses below this threshold in average annual receipts qualify as small businesses for set-aside contracts.
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