Covid-19 has transformed many industries; some have prospered, while others have been hit hard. We’ve been closely following developments in the HVAC sector in particular. This is due to our long history of assisting company communications in the sector with our expertise in mechanical engineering translation. Covid-19 has impacted all sectors in one way or another; in this blog we discuss the impact it has had on language in the International HVAC market.
The commercial HVAC industry has been impacted significantly by Coronavirus, with lockdowns meaning many commercial properties stand empty. At the same time, however, hospitals and other buildings vital in the fight against the virus still require HVAC systems for the comfort of patients and staff. The industry has had to diversify and innovate during the pandemic, which this sector is no stranger to. Smart building innovations have also changed the face of HVAC language in recent years, making it an interesting time to consider the translation challenges this sector may face looking ahead…
Language in the International HVAC market
The HVAC market is all about problem solving. The technical skills needed to work in the sector include the installation and maintenance of systems, innovation and providing intelligent solutions. These all require the support of proactive communication to perform the role successfully. Communicating ideas, issues encountered and how systems perform with complete accuracy is key.
Language in the International HVAC market is a major consideration, as, depending on a person’s role in the sector, they may also need to make communication accessible to customers and others who may not be familiar with HVAC terms. Language in the international HVAC market needs to adapt to meet the needs of the industry’s high demand sectors, some of which may change post pandemic.
Heating and air conditioning terminology
The intricacies of language can often be complex for any sector. The HVAC sector, like many others, has a wealth of information that may need to be translated. When you consider the vast global reach this sector has, translations become even more crucial. According to Statista, the global HVAC market is estimated to reach approximately 265.5 billion pounds by 2030.
Heating and air conditioning terminology can involve the use of HVAC abbreviations and component-specific terms. Given the technical nature of HVAC, those working within the sector need to be able to understand instructions precisely in their native language. Widely used HVAC terms such as ACH (air changes per hour) and AFUE (annual fuel efficiency ratio) are considered industry speak that requires the right handling by an experienced HVAC translator. Customer-facing engineers may also need to communicate health and safety information to clients when they perform maintenance visits, which adds to the sector’s language challenges.
Low carbon HVAC and sustainability
The engineering sector is known for being pioneering. Sustainability is high on the agenda for all businesses in 2021 and this industry is no exception. The environment is often in the news and the resulting buzzwords are widespread.
Engineering translation needs to be ready to present the process of ‘going green’. HVAC businesses face the challenge of effectively communicating industry pledges, actions, and company ethos to gain optimum customer buy-in. Businesses who do this effectively can set themselves apart from the competition in the global marketplace, gaining both credibility and trust. Trends towards low carbon heating options have been in the news of late and the recovery of the HVAC sector post Covid-19 is likely to require careful and considered initiatives and communication.
HVAC and Covid-19 – Translation in engineering
The HVAC industry may see specific demands and industry trends develop due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Language in the international HVAC market may well evolve with new innovations and, if we see the market adapt and diversify, further language challenges may arise. Many industries are building up resilience through training and investment. The advantages of a global sector such as HVAC are that, for some roles, talent can be acquired from around the world. Remote working becoming more commonplace for certain roles can also help to facilitate this.
Air conditioning and hygiene have long been hot topics and that has only heightened during the pandemic. Many HVAC businesses have noted fluctuations in the market, with staffing also becoming an issue for the sector with engineers off sick and property owners not wanting engineers to enter buildings. Much like the sector itself, translation in engineering needs to adapt. Disruption to supply chains, changes in the sales process, socially distanced training and minimisation of the risk of cross-infection from systems have all been listed as challenges to the sector throughout the pandemic. Language can pave the way to overcoming these issues through effectively communicating the new processes and priorities.
We’d be interested in hearing more about the communication challenges you’re facing on the International HVAC market – please contact our highly experienced team of engineering translation experts today!