ASHRAE - Experts & Thought Leaders

As part of Xylem’s commitment to innovative hydronic solutions in the pursuit of decarbonization, at AHR Expo 2025, Bell & Gossett will demonstrate strategies and solutions to build an environmentally sustainable future, furthering its Building Better Futures platform. Key highlights at Booth 2543 will include additions to the industry-pioneering hydrovar® X-enabled portfolio, panel discussions with key industry experts and a Watermark hygiene kit build activation. In addition, Bell & Gossett will unveil its industry report, “Blueprint for Net Zero: Innovations Driving Decarbonization in the Built Environment,” launching at AHR Expo 2025. Trends and challenges Furthering industrywide dialogue on the trends and challenges facing the commercial building sector Furthering industrywide dialogue on the trends and challenges facing the commercial building sector, the comprehensive report offers insights and partnerships essential to fostering resilient communities and achieving decarbonization. Featured contributions from industry pioneers, manufacturer’s representatives and Xylem subject matter experts include the American Institute of Architects, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Building Owners and Managers Association, Fluid Industrial Associates, Green Building Initiative, Hydro-Flo Products, Inc. and Xylem Innovation Labs. 2050 net-zero targets “With 2050 net-zero targets in sight, this year marks an important turning point for decarbonization. Large commercial buildings, which account for 60% of a city’s emissions on average, play a critical role in this journey,” said Susan O'Grady, senior director of marketing for commercial buildings services, Xylem. "Developed through extensive collaboration and research, our new report brings together industry thought pioneers to highlight solutions and emerging trends that can guide us toward decarbonization goals." Discussions on net-zero topics O'Grady added: "It serves as a call to action for everyone in the built environment, emphasizing the need for education and innovation to address today’s challenges and build a better future.” In addition to debuting the Blueprint for Net Zero report, Xylem will host a variety of in-booth activations, including panel discussions on data centers and net-zero topics, offering deeper insights into the report's findings and Xylem’s focus on the buildings of the future: The Path to Net Zero: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Building a Better Tomorrow 2:30 p.m. ET, Monday, Feb. 10, Booth 2543 Featured Xylem and organizational experts include: Moderated by Alan Jones, senior director of product management, Xylem Jacob Lazzarotto, mechanical engineer, new product development innovation, Xylem James Wilkinson, Americas product manager, packaged systems, Xylem Mary Lue Peck, president and COO, Building Owners and Managers Association Vicki Worden, president and CEO, Green Building Initiative The Future of Data Centers: Exploring Next-Gen Sustainable Solutions 3:30 p.m. ET, Monday, Feb. 10, Booth 2543 Featured Xylem and organizational experts include: Moderated by Matt Johnson, business development manager, Xylem James Huser, executive channel sales representative, Xylem Water Filtration Kyle Schoenheit, innovation product manager, Xylem Innovation Labs Richard Blong, vice president, global engineering & innovation, Xylem Ryan Kern, sales engineer, Cummins Wagner Co., Inc. Watermark Hygiene Kit Build Feb. 10-12, while supplies last, Booth 2543 Assembled hygiene kits will be donated to the Coalition for The Homeless of Central Florida through Watermark – Xylem's corporate social responsibility initiative, which brings clean water and resources to communities in need. Blueprint for Net Zero report The solutions pillar highlights the matter of holistic system design and advanced technologies Along with the six Building Better Futures pillars – buildings, solutions, technologies, environment, communities, and partnerships – the Blueprint for Net Zero report showcases the crucial role Bell & Gossett’s solutions play in sustainable building practices.  The solutions pillar, for example, highlights the importance of holistic system design and advanced technologies in driving decarbonization.  Advanced decarbonization and sustainability Bell & Gossett will showcase cutting-edge hydronics solutions, high-efficiency motors, intelligent systems and next-generation technologies, all designed to advance decarbonization and sustainability in modern building design: Expanded hydrovar® X-enabled product line: e-1531X and e-80SCX Smart Pumps, as well as flagship smart pumps, TECHNOFORCE™ e-HVX/e-HVXR Packaged Pressure Booster Systems and the e-1510X Smart Pump. Press Connect Fittings e-90E Smart Pump Heat exchangers: Dual Circuit BPX™ Heat Exchanger and High Energy Efficiency GPX® Heat Exchanger Low water cut offs: boilerwize® FPC-1000 and FPCe-1000, GuardDog® RB-24SE and GuardDog® RB-122E Circulator pumps: ecocirc® 20-18/ecocirc+ 20-18 Digital solutions: optimyze® Condition Monitoring and Avensor Smart Monitoring Platform The interactive report will be available at Xylem Booth 2543 and can be accessed for free beginning Feb. 10 at blueprintfornetzero.com. To learn more about Bell & Gossett’s products and solutions at AHR Expo 2025, as well as its Building Better Futures platform.

GF Building Flow Solutions Americas (formerly Uponor North America), a global provider of Uponor-branded products, announced that Hailey Mick, Business Development Manager of Engineering Services, was recently selected as the incoming President of the ASHRAE Tennessee Valley Chapter. Her two-year term will begin on July 1, 2024.  ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, advances the arts and sciences of HVACR and their allied fields while striving to achieve a healthy and sustainable built environment for all. As a long-standing member, Hailey was voted in as president by the ASHRAE Board and will draw on the theme of 'Building on Foundations, Empowering Today, and Shaping Tomorrow'. Necessary steps to improve As President, Hailey will represent the Tennessee Valley Chapter at both regional and national conferences, pioneering with education to bring value to the industry and inspiring others to take the necessary steps to improve the built environment.  "We couldn’t be more excited for Hailey as she steps into this role with an organization that’s highly committed to sustainability and innovation," says Matt Bahr, Vice President of Sales at GF Building Flow Solutions Americas, adding "Hailey is uniquely suited for this role with a passion for protecting the environment, advancing the industry with a new way of thinking, and inspiring others along the way."

The Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has recently introduced an invaluable tool to assist professionals in navigating the complex world of refrigerant regulations. The A2L Refrigerant Building Code Map is a revolutionary, map-based codes and standards resource designed specifically for A2L refrigerants. User-friendly interface Accessible through AHRI's website, the A2L Refrigerant Building Code Map provides a comprehensive overview of regulatory environments in all fifty states and US territories. The user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation through a dropdown menu or direct interaction with the map. Legislative Action: The tool highlights legislative actions across various states, such as those in Oklahoma, offering specific bill numbers, dates passed and summaries of actions taken to support the use of A2L refrigerants. Codes and Standards Updates: Stay informed on the latest updates to air conditioning, refrigeration and warehousing codes, as well as modifications to ASHRAE and UL Standards. Direct Access to AHRI Experts: Links are provided for purchasing the latest versions of codes, and users can access AHRI's in-house subject matter experts via email for further inquiries. Climate Control Group's Commitment AHRI's A2L Refrigerant Building Code Map stands as a crucial resource for HVAC professionals As part of their ongoing commitment to providing the latest information and resources, Climate Control Group encourages industry professionals to explore and utilize the A2L Refrigerant Building Code Map. This tool facilitates a smoother transition to A2L refrigerants, ensuring that users’ are well-equipped for the changing landscape. Climate Control Group remains dedicated to monitoring and reporting on training resources related to the transition to A2L refrigerants. Their products are ready for specification and order, supporting users as they navigate these regulatory changes. In the face of evolving regulations, AHRI's A2L Refrigerant Building Code Map stands as a crucial resource for HVAC professionals. Embrace this tool in their planning and decision-making processes to ensure a sustainable and compliant future for the industry.

In today's smart homes, traditional climate control meets modern automation and connectivity. Technologies such as smart thermostats, home automation platforms, sensors, zoned heating and cooling, and artificial intelligence are combining to yield new levels of comfort for homeowners who embrace the smart home concept. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the changing smart homes market impacting HVAC systems?

Certifications are official documents given by professional organizations that confirm a staff member has the necessary knowledge and skills needed to do a specific job. In the HVAC industry, certifications provide multiple benefits for various stakeholders. For technicians, certifications can demonstrate enhanced skills and knowledge, increase earning potential, improve job security, and promote greater credibility and professionalism. Certified technicians In the long run, using certified technicians boosts customer satisfaction, enhances brand image For installing companies, using certified technicians is more likely to ensure correct and efficient installations with fewer errors, callbacks, and/or warranty claims. In the long run, using certified technicians boosts customer satisfaction, enhances brand image, and provides a competitive advantage.  For manufacturers, certified technicians ensure proper installation for better product performance and longevity. For customers, employing certified technicians provides peace of mind. Proper installation ensures optimal product performance and longevity, maximizing the return on investment for customers. Certified technicians are less likely to make a mistake. Customers can have greater confidence in an installation's quality and reliability. Certification programs in the HVAC market Let’s take a look at several of the certification programs in the HVAC market. EPA 608 Certification is required by law for technicians to ensure the safe handling of refrigerants. Technicians are required to pass an EPA-approved test to earn Section 608 Technician Certification. Tests must be administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a list of approved organizations on its website. Certification levels are Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure appliances), Type III (low-pressure appliances), and universal (all levels) NATE Certification (North American Technician Excellence) ensures expertise in specific areas of HVACR systems, such as air conditioning, heat pumps, gas furnaces, etc. NATE is the largest non-profit certification organization for HVACR technicians in the United States and is considered the industry's gold standard. NATE certification proves that a technician has the knowledge and skills to properly install, maintain, and service HVACR systems. Technicians must pass a series of challenging exams, covering a range of topics, to become NATE-certified. HVAC Excellence Certification (provided by the ESCO Group) covers various aspects of HVAC systems, from installation to troubleshooting, validating technicians' proficiency and commitment to industry standards. ESCO Group is an organization focused on improving technical competency within the HVACR industry; they use the 'HVAC Excellence' label to denote their certification programs. HVAC Excellence’s series of certifications build upon each other, allowing technicians to progress through various levels of expertise. The organization validates educational programs, tracks content mastery at each stage of an individual’s career and provides educators with valuable resources to help them become more effective in their roles. Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) certification emphasizes fundamental principles, troubleshooting, and safety. The society offers a variety of certifications and training programs designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of HVACR professionals, including comprehensive training courses in essential HVACR disciplines, such as refrigeration, heating, electricity, and controls. After completing the relevant training, participants take exams to validate their knowledge. RSES is approved to administer EPA Section 608 Certification Testing, and Section 609 certification through the ESCO Group (focusing on motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) systems.) ASHRAE range of certification programs The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers a range of certification programs designed to recognize and validate the expertise of professionals in the built environment. Certifications include: Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP), focusing on the knowledge and skills needed to conduct comprehensive building energy assessments, analyze energy use, and recommend improvements.   Building Energy Modeling Professional (BEMP), which certifies individuals who can effectively use building energy modeling software to analyze building performance and design energy-efficient systems. Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP), for professionals who lead, plan, and execute the commissioning process to ensure that building systems operate as intended and meet the owner's project requirements.   Healthcare Facility Design Professional (HFDP), which focuses on the design of HVAC systems for healthcare facilities.   High-Performance Building Design Professional (HBDP), a certification focusing on professionals who can design and integrate high-performance building systems to achieve energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant well-being. Operations and Performance Management Professional (OPMP), which certifies individuals who can effectively manage and optimize the operation and maintenance of building systems to ensure energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and system reliability. Latest technologies and best practices Certifications make the HVAC market more professional by standardizing knowledge and skills and increasing credibility and trust. Certifications ensure that HVAC professionals have a baseline understanding that ensures more consistent and reliable service. Certification demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a desire to stay updated with the latest technologies and best practices. Many employers prefer or require certification, giving certified technicians a competitive edge in the job market and potentially leading to higher pay. {##Poll1738306775 - What is the biggest benefit of HVAC certifications for technicians?##}

Revised building codes, based on model “I-Codes” developed by the International Code Council (ICC), are being widely adopted to allow A2L refrigerants to be used in comfort air conditioning applications. Previously, the use of A2L refrigerants, which are “mildly flammable,” was not allowed by building codes in force in 2021 and before because of safety concerns.   benefits of A2Ls However, the benefits of using A2Ls instead of refrigerants with higher global warming potential (GWP) have led to their acceptance as a replacement for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in air conditioning applications. In response to the greater acceptance, driven by EPA refrigerant cutbacks, ICC has revised their building codes to permit the use of A2Ls, and local jurisdictions are in the process of adopting the revised building codes.  2024 I-Code changes Approved code changes in the 2024 IBC, IFC, and IMC allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants The 2024 I-Code changes facilitate compliance with new refrigerant requirements and support producers and refrigerant appliance manufacturers already transitioning to lower-GWP solutions such as A2Ls.  Approved code changes in the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and International Mechanical Code (IMC) allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants to replace refrigerants. The use of A2L impacts all three intertwined sets of building codes, which have been undergoing the three-year amendment process since 2021.  model codes and standards The International Code Council is a global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions that include product evaluation, accreditation, technology, training, and certification.  ICC is working with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) to partner with the construction industry and to facilitate legislation to navigate this positive change.  The IBC, IMC, and IFC code revisions, all managed by ICC, have been approved; two finalized codes were published earlier in 2023 and the third is being released in November 2023. Building, mechanical, and Fire codes Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants The Building and Fire codes cover storage of A2Ls in a warehouse, while the Mechanical code covers requirements for installing equipment that uses A2Ls.   Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants, including ASHRAE 15 (Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems), UL 484 (Room Air Conditioners), UL/CSA 60335-2-40 (refrigerant detector requirements) and UL/CSA 60335-2-89 (enabling higher charge limits for flammable refrigerants).   requirements of ASHRAE 15 In buildings where HVAC machinery is installed, the code changes reflect requirements of ASHRAE 15, such as no equipment with open flames, elevated temperature limits in a room, and refrigerant detection requirements that trigger a mechanical ventilation system in case of a leak. Any piping that carries A2L must be labeled as flammable with a warning. Condensers and evaporators will need to carry the familiar triangular flammability labels and “risk of fire explosion” verbiage, all consistent with the ASHRAE 15 standard.   Diamond-shaped labeling An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case “Diamond-shaped labeling must be displayed on packaging, storage, and containers so that anyone coming into a room knows there is flammable refrigerant there,” says Jim Cika, a director of technical resources for the International Code Council.   The codes cover safety requirements such as leak detection, ventilation requirements, and “flammable” labeling. An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case of a detected leak of A2L gas.  storage and warehousing “The biggest concern is proper storage and warehousing,” says Jim Cika. “Due to flammability, there are significant additional storage requirements compared to HFC. Distributors have to be prepared with appropriate space and labeling requirements, especially when the materials are being stored in bulk and large quantities.”  A2L code provisions The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants ICC has created a website that provides relevant A2L code provisions including documents with specific wording related to code changes. Some states adopt the codes state-wide, while other “home-rule” states leave the adoption of the codes to the individual local jurisdictions. The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants.   new codes ICC has been publicizing the code changes with the help of a grassroots effort with AHRI. “We have put our code provisions out there so everybody knows what they need to be concerned about and to be ready for inspection,” says Cika. The new codes are coordinated with the EPA and the requirements of the SNAP programs. “We are all on the same page,” he says.  installation of new equipment After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant Up to 25 lbs. of A2L refrigerant can be transported without any hazardous material restrictions; in effect, installers and contractors can transport A2L just as they did HFC.  Transitioning to A2L refrigerants involves the installation of new equipment since the legacy equipment that uses HFCs is not compatible with the new refrigerants. After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant. transition to A2Ls Technicians will still be able to service and maintain existing equipment installed in the field for the rest of its useful life. With equipment using both types of refrigerant operating among various customers, technicians will need to be able to work on either type of system during the transition period.  Phased down and limited supplies of HFCs, as ordained by EPA regulations, will likely push installers and their customers to the newer technologies using A2Ls.