ZACKS·2025-12-16 16:06Industry Overview - The U.S. HVAC market is experiencing strong multi-year growth driven by rising energy efficiency demands, smart technology adoption, construction booms, and government funding initiatives [1] - The Federal Reserve's consecutive rate cuts from September to December 2025 have further catalyzed favorable market trends, boosting project initiations [2] Company Analysis: Comfort Systems USA (FIX) - Comfort Systems is benefiting from robust demand trends in the Technology sector, with this sector contributing 42% of total revenues in 2025, up from 32% a year ago [5] - As of September 30, 2025, Comfort Systems reported a record backlog of $9.38 billion, reflecting year-over-year increases of 65.1% [6] - The company is focused on large-scale projects and has made recent acquisitions to enhance its market presence, expected to deliver over $200 million in incremental annual revenues [8] - Comfort Systems continues to post record margins and cash flow, driven by disciplined project selection and productivity gains [7] Company Analysis: Carrier Global Corporation (CARR) - Carrier is experiencing strong performance in the Commercial HVAC segment, particularly in the Americas, with a growing backlog supported by capacity investments [9] - The company is on track to double its annual data center revenues to around $1 billion, with backlog visibility extending into 2027-2028 [10] - Despite strengths in commercial systems, Carrier faces challenges in the North American residential HVAC market, leading to production adjustments and restructuring actions [13] - Internationally, Carrier benefits from strong demand driven by electrification and decarbonization policies, particularly in Europe and Asia [12] Stock Performance & Valuation - Comfort Systems has outperformed Carrier in share price performance over the past six months and has consistently traded above Carrier on a forward P/E ratio basis [14][15] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates an 80.2% year-over-year growth in FIX's 2025 EPS, while CARR's 2025 EPS is expected to improve by only 3.1% [19][20] Conclusion - The U.S. HVAC market is positioned for sustained growth, with Comfort Systems showing strong execution and visibility, particularly in technology-driven projects [24][25] - FIX stock is better positioned for incremental growth and earnings upside, while CARR stock reflects a more balanced risk-reward profile due to its current challenges [26]