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NAICS Code· 238220

NAICS 238220: Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in installing and servicing plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning equipment. Contractors in this industry may provide both parts and labor when performing work. The work performed may include new work, additions, alterations, maintenance, and repairs. Illustrative Examples: Cooling tower installation Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) contractors Duct work (e.g., cooling, dust collection, exhaust, heating, ventilation) installation Lawn sprinkler system installation Fire sprinkler system installation Mechanical contractors Fireplace, natural gas, installation Refrigeration system (e.g., commercial, industrial, scientific) installation Furnace installation Sewer hookup and connection, building Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--Show more

NAICS 238220 – Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors encompasses the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems that regulate indoor environmental conditions, including hydronic and forced-air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), domestic and industrial plumbing, and related piping, ductwork, and controls. These contractors operate as specialized trades within the broader construction ecosystem, often serving as subcontractors to general contractors or as prime contractors on facility modernization, new construction, and life-cycle maintenance projects.

3.4K
Active Contracts
$1.1B
Total Obligations (12mo)
3.0K
Awarded Contracts (12mo)
1.4K
Contractors Awarded (12mo)
2
Median Bidders per Award
-23.4%
YoY Growth

Industry Spending Overview

Federal obligations, top contractors and agencies, and related industry codes for NAICS 238220.

AI Industry Description

NAICS 238220 – Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors encompasses the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems that regulate indoor environmental conditions, including hydronic and forced-air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), domestic and industrial p...

NAICS 238220 – Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors encompasses the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems that regulate indoor environmental conditions, including hydronic and forced-air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), domestic and industrial plumbing, and related piping, ductwork, and controls. These contractors operate as specialized trades within the broader construction ecosystem, often serving as subcontractors to general contractors or as prime contractors on facility modernization, new construction, and life-cycle maintenance projects. In government contracting, this NAICS is critical to sustaining mission-critical infrastructure across federal buildings, military installations, veterans’ healthcare facilities, and public housing, where compliance with energy efficiency standards, indoor air quality protocols, and accessibility codes is paramount. Top contractors in this sector include ONEILL CONTRACTORS INC, DAP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT LLC, PHOENIX GENERAL CONTRACTORS, LLC, AAECON GENERAL CONTRACTING LLC, and TRUHEAT LLC, among others. The competitive landscape features a mix of medium-sized primes, specialized trade firms, and small business concerns with expertise in HVAC system design, refrigerant handling, and building automation integration, many of which hold small business set-asides or HUBZone designations. Primary buyers include the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Homeland Security, General Services Administration, and Department of the Interior, all of which require ongoing facility upkeep, energy retrofits, and new construction of barracks, clinics, administrative buildings, and border infrastructure. Demand is driven by aging infrastructure, sustainability mandates, and resilience initiatives targeting climate-adaptive building systems. The market is highly fragmented yet opportunity-dense, with recurring maintenance contracts, energy-saving retrofits, and new construction projects offering consistent procurement cycles. Contractors with certifications in refrigerant handling, LEED compliance, and building performance analytics have a distinct advantage in securing task orders under GSA schedules and IDIQ contracts.

Small Business Size Standard

The SBA threshold that decides who can bid NAICS 238220 work as a small business.

$19.0M
Applies to the whole industry code

The SBA cap for this NAICS (13 CFR 121.201). A business at or under it can self-certify as small for work in this code, which is what makes it eligible for a small-business set-aside. The cap is set per NAICS, so the same company can be small in one code and not in another.

13 CFR 121.201, effective January 1, 2026. The SBA revises the table roughly once a year.

Top Contractors

Companies with the highest total award value under NAICS 238220, ranked by dollars won.

Ranked by total awards
CompanyTotal AwardsContracts
MESSER CONSTRUCTION CO$40.9M1
JETT'S SPECIALTY CONTRACTING, LLC$24.9M4
MCKENZIE CONSTRUCTION & SITE DEVELOPMENT LLC$23.1M8
MILL CREEK FIRELAKE JV LLC$18.8M18
WITHIN INTERIOR DESIGN, INC.$18.5M1
VETERANS CONTRACTING, INC.$18.1M2
DYNAMIC-HHS JV, LLC$18.0M2
COPPER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.$16.8M1
MIK CONSTRUCTION INC$16.0M1
NORTH STATE MECHANICAL INC$14.9M12

Top Agencies

Federal agencies directing the most contract spending toward NAICS 238220.

Department Of Defense697 awards$375.4M
Department Of Veterans Affairs678 awards$307.3M
Department Of Agriculture204 awards$67.7M
W072 Endist Louisville1 award$40.9M
Department Of The Interior359 awards$32.3M
Department Of Justice180 awards$24.0M
Department Of Transportation58 awards$19.4M
W2SD Endist Norfolk1 award$17.9M
Department Of Homeland Security197 awards$15.3M
Department Of Agriculture (usda)52 awards$15.1M

Competition

How many companies historically bid on federal awards in NAICS 238220, from bidder counts reported on USAspending.

Fewer Bidders

Median under 3 bidders per reported award. · 94,572 reported awards

Median Bidders

2

Per reported award, all-time

Single-Bid Awards

50%

Share of reported awards with one bidder

10+ Bidder Awards

2%

Share of reported awards with 10+ bidders

Reported Awards

94,572

87% of 108,083 total awards

Bidder Count Distribution by Fiscal Year

Share of reported awards in each bidder-count bracket per federal fiscal year.

How this code compares up the NAICS hierarchy. Parent cohorts pool every code under their prefix, so they are the steadier baseline when a 6-digit sample is thin.

Industry FamilyCompetitionMedian BiddersSingle-BidBidder MixReported Awards
238220This Code
Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors
Fewer Bidders250%
94,57287% of 108,083
23822NAICS Industry
Fewer Bidders250%
94,57287% of 108,083
2382Industry Group
Building Equipment Contractors
Usually Single-Bid151%
203,50889% of 228,753
238Subsector
Fewer Bidders245%
453,12790% of 505,706
23Sector
Construction
Fewer Bidders240%
1,132,66189% of 1,275,170

Bidder counts reported on past federal awards in this NAICS (USAspending). An open opportunity has no bidders yet, so this is the historical norm for similar work, not a fact about this solicitation. Not all awards report bidder counts, and fewer bidders often means incumbent-held work rather than an easier win. Federal reporting of bidder counts fell from ~96% of awards (FY2016) to ~30% (FY2018 onward); the chart shows shares of reported awards, and washed-out stretches mark years with fewer than 30 of them.

Related NAICS Codes

Industries similar to Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors, by shared sector, subsector, and industry group.

Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in installing and servicing electrical wiri...
238210Same Industry GroupHigh Similarity

Other Building Equipment Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in installing or servicing building equipme...
238290Same Industry GroupHigh Similarity

Poured Concrete Foundation and Structure Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in pouring and finishing concrete foundatio...
238110Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Structural Steel and Precast Concrete Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in (1) erecting and assembling structural p...
238120Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Framing Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in structural framing and sheathing using m...
238130Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Masonry Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in masonry work, stone setting, bricklaying...
238140Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Glass and Glazing Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in installing glass panes in prepared openi...
238150Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Roofing Contractors

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in roofing. This industry also includes es...
238160Same SubsectorMedium Similarity

Explore contracts across multiple NAICS codes Browse all NAICS Codes

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NAICS 238220 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

NAICS code 238220 covers Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in installing and servicing plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning equipment. Contractors in this industry may provide both parts and labor when performing work. The work performed may include new work, additions, alterations, maintenance, and repairs. Illustrative Examples: Cooling tower installation Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) contractors Duct work (e.g., cooling, dust collection, exhaust, heating, ventilation) installation Lawn sprinkler system installation Fire sprinkler system installation Mechanical contractors Fireplace, natural gas, installation Refrigeration system (e.g., commercial, industrial, scientific) installation Furnace installation Sewer hookup and connection, building Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--

Recently Posted in Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors

NAICS: 238220
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Fiber Optic Cable Installation and TestingThis subcontract for the Georgia Department of Transportation involves the supply, installation, and testing of fiber optic cabling for prime contractors on Department ITS projects. The scope of work specifically requires the installation of single-mode optical fiber adhering to ITU-T G.657.A1, ITU-T G.652.D, and USDA RUS Standard 7 CFR1755 specifications. The contractor is responsible for delivering a certified fiber optic communication backbone, which includes performing Fiber Optic Reel Tests to verify attenuation and continuity using specialized fiber optic testers. The project is categorized under NAICS code 238220 and is designated for performance in Tattnall.
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Fiber Optic Cabling & TestingThis subcontract for the Georgia Department of Transportation involves the supply and installation of single-mode optical fiber cables for prime contractors on roadway projects located in Gilmer and Pickens. The scope of work includes performing fiber optic reel tests to verify attenuation and continuity in accordance with ITU-T G.652.D and G.657.A1 standards, as well as the splicing and termination of bending-loss insensitive cables. The contractor is responsible for utilizing OTDR testers to deliver a fully installed and tested fiber optic backbone. All deliverables must include certified test results to ensure compliance with technical specifications. This project falls under NAICS code 238220 and is associated with the Georgia Department of Transportation.
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Marine Plumbing ContractorThe Marine Plumbing Contractor subcontract involves the demolition and replacement of pier-side water utilities for harbor projects managed by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources. The scope of work requires the contractor to remove existing plumbing and install new water access points, specifically double hose bibs on power pedestals and single hose bibs at the ends of finger piers, to ensure functional water access throughout the pier system. This opportunity is categorized under NAICS code 238220 and was posted on October 14, 2026. Interested parties must submit their responses by the deadline of November 17, 2026. The project is structured as a subcontract supporting prime contractors on state-led marine infrastructure improvements.
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PIDC Project 3 - Dorm RTU Replacement and SCADA
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The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is soliciting proposals for Project 3 at the Port Isabel Detention Center in Los Fresnos, Texas, with an estimated value between $1.2 million and $1.5 million. The project consists of two primary scopes: the replacement of obsolete and corroded Rooftop HVAC Units (RTUs) for the Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta dorms, and an upgrade to the SCADA control software for the facility's water and wastewater plants. The HVAC requirements specify high-quality, durable, and coastal weather-resistant equipment that exceeds minimum commercial standards, while the SCADA system must comply with Texas Commission of Environmental Quality standards. This is a bid-build project set aside for 8(a) Multiple Award Construction Contract (MACC) holders, with a performance period of 365 days from the date of award. Award will be based solely on the lowest total evaluated price, provided the offeror demonstrates a sound technical approach, adequate design resources, and a robust quality control and safety program. Contractors must provide a one-year warranty for installation and craftsmanship and ensure all personnel are manufacturer-certified. Due to the sensitive nature of the facility, strict security protocols are in place, including mandatory criminal background checks, restrictions on cell phone and weapon possession, and a total prohibition on interaction with the detainee population. Performance is subject to Davis-Bacon wage determinations for Cameron County, Texas, and requires the submission of certified payroll with all electronic payment requests via the Invoice Processing Platform.
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MI 2026-14 Emergency Heating and Air Conditioning Services
Solicitation # MI 2026-14
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Miami Job Corps Center

POSTED

1 day ago

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NAICS: 238220
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CBP6585 Bldg. 22 HVAC Replacement
Solicitation # CBP6585
Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is seeking bids for a fixed-price, single lump sum subcontract to replace the HVAC system in Building 22 at the San Diego Job Corps Center in Imperial Beach, California. The project, categorized under NAICS 238220 and set aside for small businesses, has an estimated value between 0 and 25,000 dollars. The scope of work requires the contractor to provide all labor, materials, and equipment to install a new 5-ton condenser, furnace, 5-ton evaporator coil, condenser pad, fused disconnect, electrical whip, gas flex, shut-off valve, pigtail, and condensate drain. Deliverables include a fully operational and tested system, two sets of operation and maintenance manuals, and manufacturer and installer warranties. Bids are due by October 28, 2026, and must be submitted using the MTC Bid for Lump Sum Contract form along with a detailed cost breakout, proof of insurance, and a completed supplier packet including a W-9 and self-certification. A physical site visit and signature on the attendance roster are mandatory prior to bid submission. For bids equal to or greater than 25,000 dollars, a bid bond of 20 percent of the base bid is required, and the awarded contractor must provide performance and payment bonds for 100 percent of the contract price from a surety with at least an A- rating. The contract is subject to the Davis-Bacon Act, requiring compliance with prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits, as well as federal mandates for paid sick leave and minimum wage. Contractors must obtain a Unique Entity ID (UEI) and adhere to OSHA safety standards, providing necessary personal protective equipment for all personnel on site. Final acceptance of the work is contingent upon inspection and approval by the San Diego Job Corps Center Facilities and Maintenance Department. Payment will be made via progress applications using AIA Document G702 and G703 or equivalent forms based on percentage of completion.
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POSTED

1 day ago

DEADLINE

in 13 days
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NAICS: 238220
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MJCC EXHAUST FANS BLD. 1429
Solicitation # mjcc-exhaust-fans-bld-1429
The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center, operated by Insights Training Group LLC, is soliciting fixed-price quotes from qualified HVAC and mechanical contractors to restore the exhaust fan and louver systems in Building 1429 located in Kentucky. The scope of work includes inspecting, repairing, and replacing various components, specifically addressing failures in five exhaust units. Key tasks involve replacing failed louver actuators, blown fuses, and shorted contactor coils, as well as installing new motors for units one, two, and four, relocating a thermostat for unit three, and providing a missing motor, blade, and guard for unit five. All work must adhere to applicable building codes, manufacturer requirements, and OSHA and EPA regulations. This solicitation is set aside for small businesses, including VOSB, SDVOSB, WOSB, and HUBZone certified entities. Award will be granted to the responsible offeror who is technically acceptable and provides the lowest price. Proposals must be submitted by October 30, 2026, and must include a detailed scope of work, evidence of Kentucky state registration and licensing, a completed New Vendor Profile and W-9, and proof of ability to secure performance and payment bonding. Contract administration requires strict adherence to the Davis-Bacon Act and certified payroll wage standards. Contractors must submit weekly certified payroll records with every invoice to receive payment, and final payment is contingent upon satisfactory performance and the delivery of lien releases from all subcontractors and suppliers. The project concludes with a substantial completion walk-through and a final acceptance inspection, requiring the contractor to provide all necessary training and operating manuals.
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in 14 days
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NAICS: 238220
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1011 Turk Street Switchboard, UPS2, and HVAC Replacement
Solicitation # 1011-turk-street-switchboard-ups2-hvac-replacement
The City of San Francisco Public Works is seeking bids for the 1011 Turk Street Switchboard, UPS2, and HVAC Replacement project located in San Francisco, California. This solicitation, identified by Sourcing Event ID No. 0000011919, focuses on critical infrastructure upgrades including the replacement of the switchboard, UPS2 system, and HVAC units. The opportunity is designated as a Small Business set-aside under NAICS code 238220. Interested parties should coordinate with the Estimating Department at Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. for further details. The response deadline for this solicitation is October 14, 2026.
Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc.

POSTED

1 day ago

CLOSED

2 days ago
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NAICS: 238220
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MJCC HVAC BLD. 1403-04 B HALL
Solicitation # mjcc-hvac-bld-1403-04-b-hall
Insights Training Group, LLC is soliciting fixed-price quotes for an HVAC project at the Muhlenberg Job Corps Center in Kentucky, specifically for Building 1403-04 B Hall. The scope of work requires the contractor to furnish and install two 4-ton Trane split systems with a minimum 17 SEER rating, utilizing R-454B refrigerant. The installation includes two 95% AFUE high-efficiency gas furnaces, matching indoor evaporator coils, new refrigerant line sets, exterior line hide, and one Honeywell Pro 8000 programmable thermostat with a remote sensor. All work must be completed within 45 days of award and adhere to manufacturer specifications, local codes, and OSHA and EPA regulations. The contract is set aside for small businesses, including VOSB, SDVOSB, WOSB, and HUBZone certifications. To be technically acceptable, offerors must provide evidence of Kentucky state licensing and registration, a minimum 90-day bid guarantee, proof of ability to secure performance and payment bonding, a completed W-9, and a New Vendor Profile. Award will be granted to the responsible offeror with a technically acceptable quote and the lowest price. Compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act is mandatory, requiring the submission of weekly certified payroll and a signed Statement of Compliance with every invoice. Payments are subject to net terms and the reconciliation of payroll records against daily visitor sign-in logs. Contractors must also provide Materials Safety Data Sheets for all products used and maintain a chemical application log. Substantial completion requires a walk-through with the center director and the provision of all training, operating, and maintenance manuals. Quotes are due by October 30, 2026.
Muhlenberg Job Corps Center / Insights Training Group LLC

POSTED

1 day ago

DEADLINE

in 14 days
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NAICS: 238220
New
CBP#9772 HVAC Air Handling Unit (AHU) and Ductwork Cleaning Services
Solicitation # CBP#9772
Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is soliciting bids for a fixed-price, lump sum subcontracting opportunity, solicitation CBP#9772, to provide comprehensive HVAC air handling unit (AHU) and ductwork cleaning services at the Edison Job Corps Center in Edison, New Jersey. The project involves the cleaning of twelve AHUs and associated heating and cooling coils across two dormitory facilities, including vacuuming, mechanical brushing, and the application of approved cleaning solutions. The estimated price range for this small business set-aside is between $100,000 and $250,000. Bids must be submitted via email to the designated points of contact by October 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST. Award will be based on overall best value, with mandatory requirements including a physical site visit, a detailed cost breakout on company letterhead, and three comparable references. For bids equal to or greater than $25,000, a bid bond of 20% is required, and the awarded contractor must provide performance and payment bonds from a surety company with at least an A- rating. The contractor must comply with Davis-Bacon Act prevailing wage rates as per wage determination NJ20250036, OSHA 30 CFR 1929 safety standards, and various FAR clauses regarding first-tier subcontractor information, small business self-certification, and the protection of sensitive government information. Payment will be processed through the MTC procurement department via AIA G7/02 and G7/03 forms upon submission of weekly certified payroll reports and a Schedule of Values.
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POSTED

1 day ago

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in 1 day
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