Christopher Mickey is a respected entrepreneur from New Port Richey, Florida, known for his ability to turn challenges into successful ventures.
He began his entrepreneurial journey by transforming a struggling pizza franchise into a top performer, which sparked his passion for business. Transitioning into real estate, Christopher and his wife have flipped over 545 homes, gaining hands-on experience in construction, home systems, and the importance of energy efficiency. Recognizing the need for a reliable, customer-focused HVAC company, he launched Airheads HVAC, specializing in energy-efficient solutions. Beyond his professional success, Christopher is deeply committed to community service, stepping up in times of need, like after Hurricane Helene, to provide resources and support. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated commitment to his community.
How has your experience in real estate flipping influenced the way you run Airheads HVAC?
Flipping homes gave me a real-world crash course in how critical HVAC systems are to a house’s overall functionality and value. In the early days, I learned the hard way that a malfunctioning or outdated HVAC system could derail an entire renovation project. It was a valuable lesson in understanding just how much impact an efficient, reliable system has on both a home’s livability and its long-term value.
When I started Airheads HVAC, I brought that perspective with me. I knew that homeowners needed a company they could trust to provide not only high-quality service but also energy-efficient solutions that would save them money over time. Real estate flipping taught me to look at HVAC systems as an investment, not just an expense. That’s why our approach at Airheads HVAC emphasizes transparency and long-term savings. We treat every installation or repair as if we’re working on one of our own investment properties, focusing on quality and efficiency.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about starting a business in the trades?
The biggest misconception is that you can succeed just by knowing the technical side of things. Don’t get me wrong—being skilled at your craft is crucial. But if you don’t understand customer service, marketing, or how to run the business side of things, you’re not going to make it very far. In the trades, reputation is everything, and that comes down to how you treat your customers and how efficiently you run your business.
Another misconception is that the trades are somehow less innovative or exciting compared to other industries. The truth is, the trades are evolving rapidly, especially with advancements in energy efficiency and smart home technology. Running an HVAC company requires you to stay ahead of the curve and continuously learn. It’s a lot more dynamic than people think, and that’s what makes it so rewarding.
How did Hurricane Helene change your perspective on leadership and business?
Hurricane Helene was a life-altering experience, not just for me personally but for our entire community. It made me realize that as a business owner, you have a responsibility that goes beyond making a profit. People were in crisis—without power, with damaged homes, and some even without basic necessities. It wasn’t a time to think about revenue; it was a time to think about how we could help.
Leadership in that moment meant mobilizing quickly and using our resources to make a difference. We donated equipment, provided free or discounted HVAC services, and worked non-stop to get people back to some level of normalcy. It reinforced my belief that a strong business isn’t just about numbers on a balance sheet; it’s about being there for the community when it matters most. Hurricane Helene changed how I think about business and deepened my commitment to community service.
What role does technology play in the future of the HVAC industry?
Technology is transforming the HVAC industry in ways that would have been unimaginable even a decade ago. From smart thermostats that learn your habits to energy-efficient systems that use less power but provide better climate control, the advancements are incredible. At Airheads HVAC, we’ve made it a priority to integrate the latest technology into our services.
For example, smart home integration is something more and more customers are asking for. People want to be able to control their HVAC systems from their phones or even have systems that automatically adjust based on the weather forecast. We’re also seeing a lot of interest in sustainable solutions, like heat pumps that are more eco-friendly. The role of technology is only going to grow, and I’m excited to see how it continues to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Staying up-to-date with these advancements is crucial, not just for our business but for the planet.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to start their own business but is hesitant?
Start before you feel ready. If I had waited for the “perfect” moment to start my first business or launch Airheads HVAC, I’d probably still be waiting. The truth is, you’re never going to feel 100% prepared. There’s always going to be some level of risk and uncertainty, but if you believe in your idea and are willing to put in the work, it’s worth taking the plunge.
Another important piece of advice is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you in certain areas. I’ve learned so much from my team, from contractors to office staff, who have skills that complement my own. No one succeeds in business alone, and having a strong support system can make all the difference. Also, don’t be afraid to fail. Some of my biggest lessons have come from my failures, and they’ve made me a better business owner.
How do you stay motivated and inspired, especially when things get tough?
I’m a firm believer in staying focused on your “why.” For me, that’s my family, my team, and the impact I want to have on the community. When things get tough—and they definitely do—I remind myself why I started in the first place. It’s not just about making money; it’s about creating a business that provides real value to people and helps make their lives better.
I also find motivation in seeing the progress we make, whether it’s a customer who’s thrilled with a new energy-efficient system or a community project we’ve been able to support. Those small wins keep me going. And when I need to recharge, I step away for a bit. Sometimes that means spending time at our beach house or getting involved in community service projects that remind me of the bigger picture. It’s all about finding balance.
What’s next for Airheads HVAC and your other ventures?
We’re really excited about expanding our energy-efficient and smart home offerings. The demand for eco-friendly solutions is growing, and we want to be at the forefront of that movement. We’re also looking to launch new community outreach initiatives, like educational workshops to teach people about home maintenance and energy savings.
On the real estate side, I’m always on the lookout for new opportunities. Flipping homes is something I’m still passionate about, especially when we can integrate the energy-efficient solutions we promote at Airheads HVAC. The goal is to keep growing but never lose sight of the core values that got us here: quality, reliability, and a commitment to our community.
