Grundfos - Experts & Thought Leaders

The AHR Expo (International  Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition) today announced the winners of the 2025 AHR Expo Innovation Awards. Winners are chosen annually in ten industry categories, representing the most innovative products and technologies in the market.  Innovation Awards “To be recognized as an award winner is a true honor within our industry,” said Show Manager, Mark Stevens. “We are thrilled to highlight the dedication of manufacturers and team members as they work to create real solutions. The Innovation Awards aim to highlight these companies, professionals, and their innovation trajectory and to celebrate those that are pushing the bar.” evaluation criteria Evaluations are based on overall innovative design, creativity of the product or service offered The Innovation Awards draw hundreds of manufacturers to enter breakthrough designs for new and never-before-seen solutions or improvements upon existing products and technologies. All entries are reviewed and selected by a panel of third-party judges made up of distinguished ASHRAE members. Evaluations are based on overall innovative design, creativity of the product or service offered, product or technology real-world application, as well as overall potential market impact.  affordability, energy consumption, compliance “The continued growth of the awards program is an encouraging indication that manufacturers are responding to problems with creative solutions,” continued Stevens. “Moreover, the winning innovations must satisfy a range of factors, such as affordability, energy consumption, compliance, and production efficiency, while also addressing performance gaps in products and technology. Congratulations to all our 2025 winners!”  AHR Expo Workforce Development program In addition to celebrating innovation in HVACR, the Innovation Awards provide a means to strengthen the industry by allowing for the AHR Expo Workforce Development program, which aims to grow the industry through programming geared to inspire future members of the HVACR community. Funds collected from the entry fees are donated to programming at the student level, including show field trips, curated introductions to professionals and manufacturers, laboratory equipment, and monetary donations to student programs in the hosting city.  Winners for the 2025 AHR Expo Innovations Awards BUILDING  AUTOMATION Winner:  Distech Controls Innovation: Eclypse Facilities  AHR Booth: 781 Eclypse Facilities is a game-changer for system integrators, equipment manufacturers, and leading digital partners who can leverage unparalleled openness and interoperability with Eclypse controllers to deliver advanced digital services. Buildings implementing Eclypse ensure the highest occupant satisfaction, equipment performance, and minimal operational costs to maintain the highest asset value.  COOLING Winner:  Climate Control Group Innovation:  EnviroKIT™ AHR Booth: 3927 The EnviroKIT™ is a quick, simple, and budget-friendly solution for restoring vertical stack fan coil unit performance. Sustainably replace aging components in just a few hours per room without drywall demolition. Ideal for the hospitality industry, this kitted solution improves the cooling performance of fan coils with minimal room downtime. HEATING Winner:  AERCO, A Watts Water Company Innovation: AERCO CFR AHR Booth: 743 CFR is the world’s first stainless steel condensing boiler that can be installed in a Category I vent, making it an ideal solution for the commercial retrofit market. It delivers energy savings, reliable performance, and cost-saving installation flexibility in a compact footprint to cost-effectively comply with local energy mandates.  INDOOR AIR QUALITY Winner:  Senva Inc. Innovation: TotalSense Indoor Air Quality Sensor AHR Booth: 581 The TotalSense Air Quality sensor is the most configurable air quality sensor available with any combination of ten sensors including Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), relative humidity (RH), temperature, occupancy detection (PIR), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), Ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM), barometric pressure and ambient light.  PLUMBING Winner:  Grundfos Innovation: Grundfos ALPHA HWR AHR Booth: 1808 The Grundfos HWR is the first high-efficiency, digitally connected circulator for domestic hot water recirculation systems. It is the most efficient circulator available, with a best-in-class energy rating of 215 from the Hydraulic Institute. The fully digital solution achieves advanced comfort with maximum water and energy savings.  REFRIGERATION Winner:  Danfoss Innovation: Danfoss BOCK HGX56 CO2 T AHR Booth: 1301  Danfoss BOCK HGX56 CO2 T is a transcritical 6-cylinder CO2 compressor with an expanded range to enable larger refrigeration and heat pump applications with a smaller footprint and strong energy-efficient performance.  SOFTWARE Winner:  Radiant Professionals Alliance Innovation: Building Efficiency System Tool™ 6.2 (BEST  6.2) AHR Booth: 2175 The Radiant Professionals Alliance’s (RPA) free interactive Building Efficiency System Tool™ 6.2 (BEST 6.2), revolutionizes HVAC system efficiency comparison. BEST Software is held by Taco (which has control over the content and function thereof). The Software is copyrighted and protected by United States copyright laws and international treaty provisions.  SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS Winner:  LG Electronics U.S.A. Inc. Innovation: LG Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump AHR Booth: 6643 Conventional heat pumps suffer significant degradation in performance when confronted with temperatures below 0°F (-17.8°C), making them less reliable and efficient in cold climate regions. New heat pump products such as this innovation from LG have been developed to combat cold climate challenges, operating down to -31°F (-35°C).  TOOLS & INSTRUMENTS Winner:  PassiveLogic Innovation: PassiveLogic Sense Nano AHR Booth: 1191, 1391 The Sense Nano is the first truly wireless sensor — communicating via Bluetooth mesh, while extracting its operating energy from the surrounding environment. Goodbye, battery replacements. Installing in 15 seconds, it fits in the palm of your hand. And it packs a punch with seven sensors inside a 45mm diameter ring.  VENTILATION Winner:  Rosenburg USA, Inc. Innovation: Rosenberg I-Series Backward Curved Fans AHR Booth: 5751 Rosenberg has developed 23 models of I-Series fans, ranging from 355MM to 630MM. The high-efficiency, high-volume I-impeller features five backward-curved, hollow-profiled, airfoil section aluminum blades, with efficiency-optimized circumferential diffusers. The new impeller can increase efficiencies by up to 11% while reducing noise levels by more than half compared to older impellers.  2025 Product of the Year winner The 2025 Product of the Year winner is awarded based on exceptional leadership in HVACR In addition to category winners, one overall 2025 Product of the Year winner will be announced and awarded in Orlando. This prestigious honor is awarded based on exceptional leadership in HVACR innovation. “Innovation in our industry will continue to increase in urgency as we battle workforce shortages, increased demands, changing regulations, and the call for fast, reliable training,” said Kim Pires, AHR Expo. Innovation Awards program “Participating in the Innovation Awards, along with the honor of being named a winner, is an indication to the industry that you are at the forefront of where HVACR is heading in the future.” “What’s more, fees from the Innovation Awards program support workforce development through donations to HVACR high school programming in the cities where the show is hosted. It is a means to inspire, connect, and secure innovation for the future of the industry,” continued Pires.

The AHR Expo (International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition) returned to Chicago for a lively week of learning, reconnecting, perusing, and demoing everything new coming to market in HVACR. Notable topics included all things decarbonization from equipment on the floor to discussions in education programming refrigerant regulation updates, the heat pump resurgence, and the unveiling of many new products that are shaping the path forward for HVACR.  Driving business “The industry showed up for business in Chicago,” said Show Manager Mark Stevens. “Throughout the year we’ve followed discussions regarding regulation rollouts, decarbonization trends, and various other tracks about the way we conduct business as an industry." "It was evident in the halls that the professionals in attendance are primed to create solutions and drive business forward.”  Networking trends are rising  Podcast Pavilion hosted 20 podcasters covering the latest topics happening across the industry It was clear to anyone filling the halls on the morning of the show that attendance was strong, welcoming 48,034 attendees there to interact with the 1,875 exhibitors spread across North and South Halls. Maximizing 527,520 square footage of space for booth displays, attendees gained access to all the latest the industry has to offer, including new products, technology, skill learning, and demonstration.  Additionally, Podcast Pavilion hosted 20 podcasters covering the latest topics happening across the industry. Podcasts were recorded and will be released by each respective podcaster in the coming weeks.  Strengthening social relationships Inside exhibitor booths, industry tradesmen, women, and influencers hosted events, competitions, and meet-ups, opening exciting channels of content creation and networking opportunities.  “The network transformation is resulting in incredible visibility and partnership for professionals,” said Nicole Bush, Director of Marketing. “There is a true line of two-way communication between the professionals in the field and the manufacturers creating products and technology. Having an in-person forum like AHR Expo to strengthen the social relationships formed online is proving to be immensely beneficial to our industry.”  Industry learning and connection  It’s encouraging to see the growth in the education program with topic variety and expertise" The 2024 Education Program highlighted topics within the industry to address pain points, opportunities, and applications to increase efficiencies, business, and relationships. “It’s encouraging to see the growth in our education programming, not only with topic variety but also with the expertise signing on to provide insight,” said Special Projects Manager Kimberly Pires. “There is a deepened connection between what’s being discussed in sessions and what’s being applied on the show floor and this continues to benefit attendees with a true understanding of current information in the industry.”  Education program In 2024, the education program featured 120 free sessions, 153 new product presentations in New Product Theaters located in South Hall, and seven panels in the AHR Panel Series.  In the 2024 State of the Industry Panel topics included decarbonization including gas bans, grid capacity, heat pumps, and dual-fuel options; building automation and AI as it relates to energy conservation and future planning; refrigerant updates including sell-through periods, EPA regulation, recovery and reclamation, etc.; workforce development, virtual training, bridge programs and more.  Opportunities for professionals Representatives will delve into creating programming and bridge opportunities to attract professionals to the skilled trades In the panel titled, How Do We Address the Workforce Development, Recruitment, and Retention Gap?, representatives from Lincoln Tech, a postsecondary vocational institute with locations across the US, joined a discussion featuring Jose De La Portilla of Rheem Manufacturing, Alison Neuman of Johnson Controls, Bryan Orr of HVAC School & Kalos Services, and Dominick Guarino of National Comfort Institute, Inc.  They will delve into creating programming and bridge opportunities to attract professionals to the skilled trades and prepare them for a lifelong career in HVACR.  Other popular sessions The group discussed how to promote the industry and build a successful culture to retain, train, and onboard to better prepare for fieldwork, and supportive technology, as well as identify weaknesses, gaps, and opportunities.  Other popular sessions included topics featuring heat pumps, business strategy and growth, emotional intelligence adeptness, building automation, controls and AI, social media and industry growth, smart solutions, A2Ls, compliance, codes, and standards, as well as various other niche topics, providing something for every job role represented in the industry.  AHR heads to Orlando for 2025 Honored to continue to provide the best all-industry meeting place and forum to learn" In 2025, AHR head south to Orlando. Save the date for February 10-12, 2025 at the Orange County Convention Center. Hotel blocks are expected to open for attendees late-Spring and registration will go live in early Summer.  “Each year we come away from the show with vigor for what the industry has in store,” continued Stevens. “We are honored to continue to provide the best all-industry meeting place and forum to learn, discuss, prepare, and calibrate goals for the future of HVACR. We hope to see everyone in Orlando.”  Heard around the industry  Heard around the halls throughout the week was excitement for learning and possibilities relating to the future of HVACR. Attendees and exhibitors alike were energized by great conversation and partnership planning. We’re overwhelmed with the sense of accomplishment from our stakeholders. See below for a roundup of reflections on our time in Chicago.  “The positive energy at AHR was inspiring, and we are excited about the relationships forged during the expo. As we wrap up, we look forward to continuing these connections and partnerships in the coming months. Cheers to the success of AHR Expo 2024, and here's to the growth and innovation that lies ahead,” Kuul Evaporative Technologies.  Manufacturers and experts An amazing day at the AHR Expo meeting people from around the world and networking with the best HVAC team" “We had the opportunity to visit key manufacturers and industry experts, such as Bell & Gossett, GRUNDFOS, Taco Comfort Solutions, Armstrong Fluid Technology, NIBCO INC., and more, at the AHR Expo last week in Chicago. What a great show!” Liberty Supply.  “Last week it was incredibly busy at the AHR Expo in Chicago. This was my first time in a show in the US, and the truth is that it has been a fantastic experience,” Adrián P. “What an amazing day at the AHR Expo meeting people from around the world and networking with the best HVAC team worldwide,” Bruno Friedmann, Germany.  Interviews and engagements “We had the best time at AHR Expo 2024 in Chicago!! Going to trade expos is one of our favorite parts of doing the podcast. We get to interview guests in person, attend speaking events with our trade besties, and (the best part of it all) meet some of our amazing Power Women of the Trades Podcast listeners!” Power Women of the Trades Podcast.  “Great turnout and awesome customer/prospect engagement,” James Carpenter, Account Manager, R.W. Beckett Corporation. “Can't wait for next year. Great job in Chicago,” KCC Companies.  Applications and technologies “What a show! It was great to connect with our representative partners, HVAC professionals, contractors, and engineers who visited the Desert Aire booth to discover our latest dehumidification technology solution (SwimAire), from indoor pools to controlled environment agriculture and a variety of other applications. We hope to see you again soon or at AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando!” Desert Aire LLC. “Invaluable event! See you in Orlando next year,” Klima Control Air Conditioning Supply. “Enjoyed all the conversations and introductions! Great seeing so many channel partners in this industry,” Rich Hargrave, vcita.

Big 5 Global, the largest and most influential construction industry event in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) is set to take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 4 – 7 December 2023. With registrations open for participants who wish to attend the annual gathering of the global construction industry, the event aims to host 2,200+ exhibitors and 68,000+ attendees from more than 150 countries for four days of valuable business networking, fruitful partnerships, and knowledge exchange.   Empowering the construction industry Big 5 Global unites the whole industry bringing together contractors, developers, architects, engineers, consultants, disruptors, innovators, and suppliers to ESG advisors and international and local policymakers, empowering the development of the construction industry.     The construction industry is booming in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, with over $7 trillion in active projects and $3.8 trillion worth of recently awarded projects, according to ABiQ. Importance of industry collaboration Big 5 Global is the ultimate platform for numerous opportunities for both local and global companies The increasing number of projects in the region attracts a wide range of stakeholders, making Big 5 Global the ultimate platform for numerous opportunities for both local and global companies wanting to meet decision-makers.  The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure continues to support the event, emphasizing the importance of industry collaboration and tackling the impact of climate change.  Sustainable future Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President of construction, dmg events, and organizer of Big 5 Global said, “For 43 years, Big 5 Global has continued to serve as a true testament to the region’s attractiveness in the global construction arena, bringing together groundbreaking ideas, cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled expertise."  "The event not only enhances the diversity of offerings with the participation of 2,200+ exhibitors but also fosters international collaborations and promotes cross-border partnerships as stakeholders from different parts of the world come together to share products and services while driving the industry towards a sustainable future.”  eight specialized events Construction solutions from Germany, Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, the UK, among others In its 44th edition, Big 5 Global is once again accompanied by eight specialized events covering the entire construction value chain. These include Big 5 Heavy, Middle East Concrete, Windows Doors & Facades Event, Gulf Glass, HVAC R, Middle East Stone, the Urban Design & Landscape Expo and FM Expo. Twenty country pavilions shine the spotlight on construction solutions from Germany, Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, the UK, Türkiye, Cyprus, India, Austria and China, among others. New-to-show brands "The return of Austria's participation at Big 5 Global after 5 years underscores the importance of showcasing innovations on a global stage. It comes at a time when Austria is seeking to meet new buyers in the booming MEASA market and engage in partnerships,” added Greenish.  The event gathers over 50,000 products and solutions and welcomes a host of new-to-show brands such as ARISTON from Italy, Henkel from Germany; Stanley Black & Decker and Milwaukee Tool from the US; UAE-based Galadari, Genavco, ModDsys and Mapei; SIEMENS (GCG Group) from Kuwait, among others. Eight product sectors Exhibiting brands include DUTCO TENNANT, Emirates Steel, Grundfos, Honeywell, NAFFCO, SCHÜCO Some of the exhibiting brands include DUTCO TENNANT, Emirates Steel, Grundfos, Honeywell, NAFFCO, SCHÜCO, RAKTherm, and USG ME.  Eight product sectors take center stage at Big 5 Global including building envelope and special construction, building interiors and finishes, construction technologies and personal protective equipment, intelligent buildings, MEP services, off-site and modular construction, digital construction products and services, and solar products, technologies, and services.    Advancing thought leadership   Big 5 Global brings together pioneers, experts, innovators, and practitioners from various related industries, such as contracting, architecture, engineering, technology, and sustainability, among others to maximize the potential of the regional construction market, as a global pioneer.   In 2023, Big 5 Global will be accompanied by the Big 5 Global Leaders’ Summit, Big 5 FutureTech Summit as well as Big 5 Talks which are being held under 10 different streams including Project Management, Concrete, Geotechnical, Architecture, Solar, Facilities Management & Retrofit, Facades, HVAC R & MEP, Offsite & Modular, Technology, and Urban Design & Landscape.   adoption of energy efficiency "As we convene at this year’s Big 5 Global Leaders' Summit, I am reminded that our shared commitment to sustainability must evolve from pledges to actions," said H.E. Dr. Ali Al Jassim, Chair, Emirates Green Building Council, commenting on his participation at the summit.   "The government, private, and public sectors must work together to maintain and define the roadmap needed to rapidly increase the adoption of energy efficiency and wellbeing in our built environment. Through dialogues at the summit, alongside other industry thought pioneers, we’ll explore ideas and discuss ways to drive a sustainable future for the industry." foster a culture of thought leadership This exposure to global viewpoints at the summits encourages thought pioneers to think beyond their local contexts" “Through Big 5 Global, we bring diverse expertise, foster a culture of thought leadership, and expose the MEASA region’s construction industry to innovations and best practices." "This exposure to global viewpoints at the summits encourages thought pioneers to think beyond their local contexts and adapt to global trends,” added Greenish.   Big 5 Global Impact Awards Big 5 Global 2023 will celebrate the 3rd edition of the Big 5 Global Impact Awards, recognizing innovation, sustainable development, technology, and digital achievements in the construction industry in 19 categories.  With shortlists being announced, 100 finalists will undergo intense competition to lift the winner’s trophy. The annual exhibition is free to attend for industry professionals. 

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.