Redefining Comfort: How Millennials Are Revolutionizing HVAC Expectations

If you want more from your A/C system, you’re not alone. Customers nationwide are setting a new bar for air conditioning expectations, and San Antonio's millennial homeowners are right in the thick of it. We know transforming the A/C game calls for more than just comfortable temperatures; it’s about creating a complete indoor haven for homeowners.

Read on as we explore how millennials are redefining A/C demands and how Tiger Services is rising to meet these evolving needs with expertise and care.

The millennial shift in home ownership

Millennials, born between 1980 and 2000, are stepping into their prime spending years, according to Goldman Sachs. The sheer size and unique customer behavior associated with this generation are poised to redefine several sectors of the economy — and housing is no exception.

Even as this group continues to face the hurdles of housing affordability, over half of millennials are now homeowners, as highlighted in Apartment List's 2023 Millennial Homeownership Report. In fact, a 2023 study by SmartAsset reveals that a quarter of millennials packed their bags and moved to a different city in 2022 alone. While these young folks ventured all over the map, San Antonio (SA) snagged a spot as one of the prime cities for millennials to settle down and own a home. The same study revealed that more than 100,000 millennials moved to San Antonio just last year.

Why are millennials making the move to SA?

Millennials are moving to San Antonio in droves not only for the city’s lively cultural scene but also for its relatively lower cost of living compared to other major cities and a thriving job market. With a diverse array of neighborhoods and housing options, from urban lofts to suburban homes, San Antonio is a perfect place for this segment to invest in their future. Plus, millennials seeking stability and a place to call their own enjoy a strong community, excellent amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as the allure of this vibrant city draws in the next generation, expectations for HVAC systems from this segment are higher than ever.

Recognizing the true impact of HVAC systems

Millennials have discovered that an HVAC system does more than just keep a house cozy; it's a linchpin of their home's entire indoor ecosystem. Through savvy research, these digital natives unveiled the relationship between their HVAC system and fostering a comfortable, healthy home. They've dug into its function beyond maintaining proper temperatures, recognizing how it impacts air quality, humidity levels and overall wellness within their living space.

At the same time, the pandemic served as a wake-up call for millennials, emphasizing how vital it is to have air that's safe to breathe. This made it crystal clear that having clean indoor air isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for their well-being. With an understanding of the role that a well-maintained HVAC system plays in creating a safe indoor environment, millennials now prioritize air purity as a fundamental aspect of their home's comfort and well-being.

In their mission to improve their home's air quality for the whole family, millennials uncovered something crucial. Skipping HVAC care can lead to:

• Increased dust/allergens: Neglecting HVAC maintenance doesn't just mean more dust; it quickly leads to potential discomfort and health issues for those indoors, especially in San Antonio. Faulty air ducts not only make homes uncomfortable but can also be hazardous to your family’s health, causing symptoms like headaches, fatigue and irritation. Plus, Good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is crucial in preventing respiratory conditions and other health problems. Tiger Services is dedicated to improving IAQ by offering services like humidifier installations, air purification systems and ductwork repair — to ensure a healthier atmosphere for you and your loved ones.
• Heightened humidity: Indoor humidity levels can also soar when an HVAC system isn't properly cared for — becoming a haven for dust mites. This compromises indoor air quality, both intensifying allergic reactions and worsening respiratory problems. Consistent maintenance helps regulate humidity levels to minimize dust mite growth and foster a healthier indoor environment.
• Accumulation of VOC gasses: A neglected HVAC system can let sneaky VOCs hang around (i.e., volatile organic compounds that have high vapor pressure and low water solubility), potentially putting you and your loved ones’ health at risk. These gasses, originating from different household sources, can lead to health issues ranging from mild irritation to more severe respiratory problems.

Raising the bar: Millennials expect more

With the above in mind, it likely comes as no surprise that millennials are setting a new standard when it comes to their expectations from central HVAC systems. More than the basic function of heating and cooling, this generation of San Antonio homeowners expects a holistic indoor environment that fosters comfort and health.

What’s more, there's a growing trend among customers favoring businesses that demonstrate firm environmental and social commitments. Studies indicate that a staggering 90% of millennials are interested in sustainable investments and prefer solutions that minimize their environmental impact, which is influencing their HVAC system choices. As a result, energy efficiency has become a key criterion for a premium air conditioning system, reducing energy consumption and contributing to cost savings. These cost savings are especially crucial for millennials, who are proactively budgeting to avoid high CPS Energy bills. This means energy efficiency is now an increasingly important priority in their HVAC investment decisions.

For the modern millennial, high quality refers to a system that not only efficiently regulates temperatures but also emphasizes indoor air quality and sustainability. This benchmark also often involves smart technology integration, with individuals pursuing systems that can be controlled remotely for convenience and adaptability. Essentially, millennials are reshaping the expectations from central HVAC systems today, in search of setups that align with their modern living standards and tech-savvy experience.

Tiger Services: Redefining HVAC excellence

Millennials have every reason to expect more from their HVAC contractors and the air conditioning systems they install. And if you’re looking for comprehensive solutions that go beyond just comfort, focusing on health, sustainability and cutting-edge technology — Tiger Services can help.

Tiger Services Air Conditioning and Heating, a trusted family-operated business for over 46 years, stands ready to support San Antonio's millennial homeowners by providing high-quality HVAC solutions. Whether it's maintaining your existing system, enhancing air quality or exploring energy-saving options, we’re a reliable team dedicated to transparency and customer satisfaction.

Looking for higher standards from your HVAC contractor or seeking better performance from your AC system? Reach out today to find out how Tiger Services can help. If you’re not sure what you need, you can chat with a helpful customer service representative who can assist you in finding the best solutions.