The HVAC Industry gathered in Orlando for AHR Expo 2025, focusing on the latest advancements in technology. Attendees included contractors, manufacturers, engineers, system design professionals, facility managers, architects, wholesalers, and distributors.
This year’s expo highlighted game-changing innovations, regulatory shifts, and emerging trends designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity. For HVAC professionals, these developments translate into practical solutions that improve system performance, optimize energy use, and simplify compliance with evolving industry standards.
The Next Phase of Refrigerant Transition
The transition to A2L refrigerants is a dominant theme at this year’s expo, with major players such as Arkema, Chemours, LG Electronics, Rheem, Daikin, and others showcasing the latest refrigerants and equipment solutions.
Following the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, the shift from R-410A to R-32 and R-454B is well underway, with 80% of manufacturers opting for R-454B. While concerns about flammability persist, experts emphasize that proper training and system design can mitigate risks.
LG Electronics' full product line
Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution
Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution. Daikin was among the manufacturers to go all-in on R-32, which required a complete redesign of product components, ultimately pioneering to more efficient, cost-effective systems, according to the company.
LG Electronics' full product line now uses R-32 refrigerant, and they started shipping products in December. All R-410A equipment will be gone by the end of Q1.
variety of products on R-454B refrigerant
Rheem announced their 100-year anniversary, and a new tagline, "Engineered for Life." They say the trend is toward side-discharge heat pumps, although the industry needs a mix of both. They had a variety of products on display that use R-454B refrigerant.
Attendees at AHR Expo 2025 came away with an understanding that refrigerant regulations and selecting compatible equipment will be crucial for ensuring smooth transitions in commercial and residential applications.
Intelligent Building Automation and Controls
Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building control, with AI-driven automation
Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building management, with AI-driven automation, IoT connectivity, and remote monitoring taking center stage. Companies like Distech Controls and Schneider Electric are introducing IP-based controllers that integrate seamlessly with existing building management systems.
Belimo’s intelligent butterfly valve and Delta’s Node-RED Programming with built-in Python support, among other products, are making automation more powerful and user-friendly.
Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat
Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat and Sensi equipment interface module (EIM) can eliminate the need to pull additional wires during installation. The system is weatherproof, indoor, or outdoor, and communicates using radio frequency (RF).
AHR Expo 2025 made a strong case that investing in smart controls will improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enable predictive maintenance.
Hydronic Systems for Data Center Cooling
One major player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target data center market
The rise of data center cooling solutions was another recurring theme at AHR. One prominent player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target the data center market. The company’s e-1531X and e-1532X smart pumps offer enhanced energy efficiency and a larger "efficiency island."
These systems are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable data center cooling, providing a net-zero roadmap. As data center energy consumption rises, hydronic solutions offer a scalable, efficient approach to thermal management.
Heat Pumps Expand Capabilities and Market Reach
Heat pumps continue to dominate as a top energy-efficient alternative for commercial and residential applications. Companies such as Danfoss, Mitsubishi, and Samsung are pushing the boundaries with heat pumps that operate in extreme temperatures. Danfoss is progressing forward related to four application areas at AHR 2025--heat pumps, data centers, RTU/DOAS, and retail/refrigeration. Emphasis is on lower emissions and better energy efficiency.
| Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including modular air handler |
Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including their modular air handler – the EVOX G³ – that breaks down into three pieces for easy movement and installation in any of six configurations. They are also opening showrooms throughout the country so consumers and contractors can see and touch the products.
Integration with renewable energy sources
Johnson Controls-Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called FrostWash
Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning’s Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called "FrostWash;" they intentionally build a frost layer on the coil so the fine particulates can be captured and then melted away, thus avoiding mold and other contaminants. It can be used in lieu of UV light, which damages plastics.
The heat pump market is growing rapidly, and advancements in low-temperature performance and integration with renewable energy sources will drive adoption.
The Drive Toward Sustainability
Sustainability is a recurring theme at the expo, with manufacturers prioritizing energy-efficient equipment, smart automation, and low-GWP refrigerants. Companies like Lennox, and Rheem are launching highly efficient packaged rooftop units and unitary heat pump systems.
Grundfos’s distributed pumping technology and Ziehl-Abegg’s ZAcore intelligent control platform further demonstrate the industry's push toward lower energy consumption and minimal environmental impact.
Investing in sustainable HVAC technologies
Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico
Lennox is serving the "emergency replacement" market for HVAC equipment with their Xion line. Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico.
Telling the "story" of humidification at AHR 2025, Condair has products for any vertical. They say more education and awareness are needed on the value of humidification. As regulations tighten and demand for green building solutions rises, investing in sustainable HVAC technologies will be critical for long-term success.
Smarter, Cleaner, and More Efficient
AHR Expo 2025 underscores the industry's shift toward smarter, cleaner, and more efficient HVAC solutions. Whether it’s refrigerant transitions, intelligent automation, or advanced heat pump technology, staying ahead of these trends will help HVAC professionals deliver superior performance while meeting regulatory requirements.
The innovations showcased in Orlando set the stage for a future where HVAC systems are not only more efficient and environmentally friendly but also easier to manage and integrate into modern buildings.