HVAC IoT

Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, has been celebrated with a sweep of prestigious recognitions spotlighting its outstanding workplace culture and forward-thinking innovation. TIME, Fortune, Forbes, 3BL, and Glassdoor have all named Trane Technologies among this year’s best companies and workplaces. In just this month alone, Trane Technologies has been recognized in: TIME’s World’s Best Companies list for the third consecutive year; Fortune’s list of the Best Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production for the second consecutive year; Forbes' inaugural list of America’s Best Employers for Company Culture 2025; 3BL’s 100 Best Corporate Citizens list for the sixth consecutive year; and Glassdoor’s Best-Led Companies 2025. Inclusive culture TIME’s list of the World’s Best Companies recognizes organizations with high employee satisfaction “At Trane Technologies, our culture has been a catalyst for our success,” said Dave Regnery, Chair and CEO of Trane Technologies. He adds, “We know that an uplifting, inclusive culture empowers our people to innovate, collaborate, and deliver great results. When our employees feel supported and inspired, we unlock the potential to create value for our customers, our shareholders, our communities, and for the world.” TIME’s list of the World’s Best Companies recognizes organizations with high employee satisfaction, strong growth, and transparency in their sustainability practices. Redefining the employee experience Fortune’s Best Companies in Manufacturing and Production is based on an analysis of survey responses from nearly 107,000 employees at Great Place To Work Certified companies in the manufacturing and production industry. Forbes America's Best Employers for Company Culture 2025 is determined through a comprehensive process that includes survey responses from current employees, industry feedback, evaluations from friends and family, and research conducted by the market research firm Statista. 3BL’s 100 Best Corporate Citizens evaluates Russell 1,000 companies on multiple factors, including climate change, employee relations, environment, governance, and human rights. Glassdoor’s Best-Led Companies honors exceptional senior leadership teams that go above and beyond to redefine the employee experience. Series of honors These accolades are the latest in a series of honors awarded to Trane Technologies by TIME and Fortune These accolades are the latest in a series of honors awarded to Trane Technologies by TIME and Fortune. Earlier this year, the company was recognized on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies list for the 13th consecutive year and ranked 20th on TIME’s list of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies. Additionally, the company earned Great Place To Work Certification in the United States for the fifth consecutive year. Trane Technologies continues to pave the way in decarbonizing buildings, industry, and the cold chain by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions both for its customers and within its own operations, all while consistently achieving outstanding business and sustainability performance. Substantial progress The company has made substantial progress toward its 2030 Sustainability Commitments, notably reducing customer carbon emissions by 237 million metric tons since 2019. This achievement puts Trane Technologies on track to meet its Gigaton Challenge goal of reducing one gigaton (one billion metric tons) of customer carbon emissions by 2030.

HANSA Klimasysteme GmbH, based in 26683 Saterland / Strücklingen, has stood for customized, high-quality ventilation and air conditioning units for every conceivable application in industry and buildings since 1961. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of the time. Customized system solutions for ventilation and air conditioning units in all areas of application are what HANSA Klimageräte GmbH is offering. The company is focusing on innovation and development in order to reduce energy consumption and operating costs as much as possible. The WebPanels from Wachendorff Prozesstechnik GmbH & Co. KG play an important role in the electrical engineering used, as their versatility and rapid implementation make the WebPanels an essential part of the digital transformation in systems, machines and production environments. HANSA Klimasysteme GmbH HANSA is characterized by individual system solutions for ventilation and air conditioning units  HANSA Klimasysteme GmbH (HANSA), based in 26683 Saterland/Strücklingen, Germany, follows the clear vision that clean air should be a natural standard for everyone and is passionately committed to realizing this vision through innovative and highly efficient air conditioning and ventilation systems. HANSA is characterized by individual system solutions for ventilation and air conditioning units in all areas of application. Since its foundation, the company has consistently focused on innovation and development in order to drive forward energy and operating cost reductions in the best possible way. Construction of air conditioning units Since the company was founded in 1961, HANSA has stood for the construction of air conditioning and ventilation units for schools, sports halls, swimming pools and hospitals as well as for industrial and process engineering applications. The portfolio of the most diverse air conditioning units is correspondingly broad. The appliances are used for ventilation and aeration. For this purpose, the air is treated and supplied to an object. The treatment can be heating, cooling, humidifying or dehumidifying. Optimally fulfil customer wishes Christian Seltz, Head of the Electrical Department at HANSA, explains: “The aim of every system is to optimally fulfil the user‘s climate requirements and to help protect the environment.” “Thanks to flexible manufacturing processes and modern components, HANSA offers systems that can be customized to the customer‘s individual operating conditions and consume as little energy as possible.” “Based on our many years of experience, we have developed a diverse portfolio of air conditioning units whose longevity benefits users. However, our devices are not mass-produced, but are optimised and tailored to the respective application and its specific requirements. We can therefore speak of batch size 1.” Investment and energy costs “We are constantly working on reducing the energy requirements of the overall system and the individual modules without compromising the performance of the system - this reduces investment and energy costs for our customers in equal measure,” continues Christian Seltz. HANSA stands on three pillars in order to fulfil its own requirements and customer wishes: HANSA itself produces customized, high-quality air conditioning and ventilation units for every conceivable application. These include units for cooling rooms with high thermal loads, units for dissipating process heat and dehumidification units for indoor swimming pools, for example. IVENCON plant engineering division With the etaTECH service division, HANSA ensures that the devices and systems run optimally in the field With its IVENCON plant engineering division, HANSA realizes complex technical building equipment systems for industrial and energy plants. With the etaTECH service division, HANSA ensures that the devices and systems run optimally in the field. etaTECH comprises strategies and technologies with which HANSA can realize improvements in the efficiency (Greek: η, eta) and thus the efficiency of ventilation and air conditioning devices and systems. “etaTech also includes our service, which rounds off the portfolio with maintenance and troubleshooting for optimal system operation after commissioning and acceptance of the devices,” continues Seltz. Economic efficiency The operating conditions for air conditioning and ventilation units in the industrial sector are as varied as industrial production itself. Manufacturing processes often require exact compliance with defined air conditions. In addition, very strict air hygiene criteria must be met when handling food and pharmaceutical processes. “However, these diverse projects always have one criterion in common: more than anywhere else, decision-makers in the industry are focusing on the cost-effectiveness of every investment. Only those who can withstand the critical analysis of the investment and operating costs of an air conditioning system have a chance in this segment,” says Christian Seltz. Electrical engineering and design The DDC programs ensure that technical building systems are operated economically  In addition to a parameterizable control system from OJ-Electronics, which optimally covers many standard applications, Hansa relies on the programmable control systems (DDC - Direct Digital Control) from Saia Burgess, as required and agreed with the customer or their engineering office. The DDC programs ensure that technical building systems are operated economically and in accordance with usage requirements, without any loss of comfort for the user.  Possible savings can be made, for example, by switching off consumers completely outside the times of use and switching them back on at the optimum time before use begins. Detailed clarification Detailed clarification takes place during the quotation phase. If this is not possible, appropriate leeway is provided so that parameters and algorithms can also be adapted after commissioning. By networking, DDC substations in larger buildings can be linked and operated in a so-called building management system (BMS). HANSA air conditioning units can be integrated into the respective building management system via all common interfaces. Typically, the required interface is based on BACnet, Modbus or Saia S-BUS. Control strategies “We develop the control strategies for our systems, taking into account the appliance type, the specific application, the components installed, and the on-site conditions. All the information relevant to economical, ecological, and safe control comes together in our factory,” notes Christian Seltz. HANSA specialist Christian Seltz explains further: “With a HANSA DDC, the operator has a single point of contact for all service enquiries.” “With our etaConnect product, we link the controls of our air conditioning units to the Internet via an LTE router, thereby enabling remote access to our devices for the purposes of operation, monitoring, fault management, changing parameters and more. The devices can be connected to a higher-level building management system via a defined interface and thus controlled from here.” Fast response times The web server management systems from HANSA offer considerable advantages Fast response times and brilliant reproduction, even under difficult ambient conditions, characterize the WebPanels from Wachendorff Prozesstechnik and inspire Christian Seltz, Head of Electrical Project Planning, Control and Regulation Technology at HANSA. The web server management systems from HANSA offer considerable advantages. These include: No additional software required; operation of the systems from any PC/laptop connected to the Internet (the web browser is the access software); an interactive control scheme for simple operation; high security thanks to multiple password protection; optimum and cost-effective remote management set-up (remote service and remote analysis), and unlimited Modbus and BACnet capability. SpiderControl AutomationBrowser The SpiderControl AutomationBrowser from iniNet Solutions is an HTML5 web browser for industrial panels and contains many other features in addition to the standard functions. Among other things, it also offers PLC station lists for navigating to various web servers and starting in kiosk mode. An on-screen keyboard can be activated by the user at any time. The AutomationBrowser not only supports http and https URLs, but also VNC (remote desktop) and RTSP (video streaming). “The AutomationBrowser is already installed on the WPC WebPanels from Wachendorff when they are delivered to us. It is a very important software component in the overall concept,” says Christian Seltz. WebPanels from Wachendorff “The WebPanels from Wachendorff not only impressed us with their inner values. With their robust die-cast aluminum housing and the very thin front design of just 3 mm, as well as a brushed aluminum frame, they are a visually very attractive solution. Of course, the aesthetics of the human-machine interface also play an important role in the overall design of the system,” says Seltz. With their robust die-cast aluminum housing and very thin front design of just 3 mm and a brushed aluminum frame, the WebPanels from Wachendorff are a visually very attractive solution. The aesthetics of the human-machine interface also play an important role in the overall design of the system. Important components HANSA consistently relies on WebPanels, and they are used in the following areas and with the following objectives: Operation and control User friendliness: WebPanels offer intuitive touchscreen interfaces that allow operators to easily control HANSA systems. Access to control systems: They act as an interface to  the control systems (DDC, PLC) and other control components. ‘However, this option is greyed out in the menu and can only be accessed by specially trained personnel,’ notes Seltz. Monitoring and visualization Real-time data: WebPanels display system statuses, process parameters and errors in real time, which minimizes response times in the event of faults. Data visualization: They offer diagrams, trends and dashboards for better analysis of the system data. Remote access and remote monitoring HANSA systems and installations generally run for significantly longer than 20 years. To ensure the maximum performance and longevity of the systems, HANSA offers a comprehensive range of services: Maintenance, inspection, fault service, online monitoring, control optimization and targeted retrofitting. “For older existing systems, we replace the 7-segment display that was previously installed as standard and retrofit a Wachendorff WPC WebPanel to enable remote access in the future,” explains Christian Seltz. Web-based operation: As the WebPanels at HANSA access the respective web servers of the systems available in the field via a special web browser, technicians can act very easily regardless of location and do not have to travel to the site of the incident. Remote fault diagnosis: Maintenance personnel can diagnose and often rectify problems without being on site. Integration in Industry 4.0 IIoT compatibility: WebPanels are connected to IIoT systems at HANSA in order to integrate data into cloud or MES systems. Process and system optimization: Processes are monitored and optimized through data integration. By cross-comparing different systems and their data, important insights can be gained for the further development of ventilation and air conditioning technology. ‘We are already using artificial intelligence to analyze and draw conclusions in this area,’ reveals Seltz. etaSmart, HANSA‘s name for a higher-level AI control system, is already being used for swimming pools and is constantly being developed further.’   Security Access control: HANSA secures access to critical system functions with user login and authorization levels. Alarm management: WebPanels display alarms and warning messages and can send them automatically to ensure the functionality of the systems and the safety of users. Scalability and flexibility WebPanels can be used in a wide variety of system configurations. This is very important for HANSA due to the batch size 1 described above. HANSA uses WebPanels from Wachendorff in sizes (screen diagonals) of 10.1 inches, 15.6 inches and 21.5 inches - and does not have to adapt the visualization once it has been configured. Working in partnership “The cooperation between Wachendorff and HANSA Klimatechnik has proven to be extremely positive and based on partnership in past projects. In particular, the close, trusting co-operation with the Wachendorff sales team has contributed significantly to the success of the joint projects.” “By always acting in a solution-and customer-orientated manner, they ensured that all project steps ran smoothly and efficiently,” Christian Seltz is pleased to report. Original devices for testing “From the initial contact to the final implementation, the collaboration was characterized by a high level of expertise and commitment on the part of Wachendorff. The Technical Advice and Service department supported us with extensive technical expertise and helped us to select the optimum devices for the respective requirements.” “The uncomplicated and rapid provision of sample devices was a decisive factor in this process, enabling the solutions to be trialed and evaluated at an early stage. The appliances were subjected to extensive tests and the WPC series from Wachendorff emerged as the price-performance winner,” emphasizes Christian Seltz. Customized solutions Christian Seltz continues: “Wachendorff‘s service in making specific customizations for us deserves special mention.” “This mainly involved requirements that would enable us to commission the WebPanel plug & play: For example, software pre-installation and a customized boot screen (here: logo) were implemented with great open-mindedness. This flexibility reflects Wachendorff‘s customer-oriented way of working.” Innovation on the assembly line Christian Seltz concludes: "Our latest developments and solutions, such as etaConnect for IIoT and remote maintenance, etaWatch for energy monitoring and etaSmart as a highly developed AI-based control system, are setting new standards in the field of air conditioning systems." "We are constantly striving for technological progress in order to offer our customers optimum performance, efficiency and user friendliness. It‘s important to have access to well-established processes and reliable partners - I really appreciate the Wachendorff Prozesstechnik team and look forward to the next steps together." Powerful WebPanel WPC with pre-installed AutomationBrowser: Projected capacitive touch TFT LCD, 1,280 pixels x 800 pixels Diagonals from 7 inch to 23.8 inch IP65, compact fanless housing Processor: RK3288 quad-core Cortex-A17 up to 1.8 GHz Fast image display with powerful processor Robust aluminum housing, low installation depth High protection class IP65, flush-mounted design Always connected: Integrated WiFi and Bluetooth

In an era of rising energy costs and growing concerns about sustainability, organizations across industries are rethinking how they manage indoor climate control. While central HVAC systems remain essential in most facilities, portable HVAC units have emerged as a complementary solution that addresses specific cooling needs with greater precision and efficiency. By enabling targeted temperature control where and when it is required, portable systems can reduce wasted energy, improve occupant comfort, and extend the flexibility of existing infrastructure. Conventional Cooling Traditional HVAC systems are typically designed to regulate conditions across entire buildings Traditional HVAC systems are typically designed to regulate conditions across entire buildings or large zones. While this approach ensures broad coverage, it is not always the most energy-efficient method. Cooling or heating unoccupied areas, overcompensating for high-demand zones, or running equipment at maximum capacity during peak loads can all lead to energy waste and higher operational costs. Additionally, some environments face rapidly changing conditions that central systems alone may struggle to address. Examples include temporary workspaces, seasonal demand spikes, equipment-intensive areas such as server rooms, and facilities undergoing maintenance or renovations. In these scenarios, the ability to deploy additional, localized climate control is highly valuable. Portable HVAC Systems Portable systems reduce the need to overcool large spaces just to manage one problematic area Portable HVAC units offer a flexible way to manage these challenges. Unlike fixed systems, they can be deployed exactly where needed, whether that is a data center rack generating excess heat, a temporary medical facility requiring precise air control, or a manufacturing line where processes create hot spots. Because they provide cooling (or heating) at the source of demand, portable systems reduce the need to overcool large spaces just to manage one problematic area. This targeted approach translates into significant energy savings and prevents central HVAC systems from being overburdened. Energy Efficiency Benefits The energy efficiency advantages of portable HVAC systems can be observed in several key areas: Targeted Cooling and Heating By conditioning only the necessary zones, portable systems minimize unnecessary energy consumption. For instance, rather than cooling an entire warehouse to protect a small set of sensitive materials, a portable unit can maintain the required temperature in that specific area. Load Sharing with Central Systems Portable HVAC can act as a supplemental resource during peak demand periods. Instead of scaling up the central system to handle short-term spikes, portable units provide additional capacity precisely where needed, reducing overall energy use. Reduced Equipment Strain By alleviating hotspots and load imbalances, portable HVAC systems prevent central equipment from running continuously at high capacity. This not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of the primary system, lowering maintenance costs and downtime. On-Demand Operation Many portable systems are designed to be switched on and off as needed. This on-demand functionality avoids the inefficiency of maintaining constant cooling in areas that are only occasionally in use. Adaptability to Renewable Integration As organizations adopt renewable energy strategies, portable HVAC units can be strategically operated during periods of high renewable generation (e.g., solar peak hours), helping balance energy consumption with sustainability goals. Applications Across Industries The value of portable HVAC is evident in a wide range of sectors: Data Centers and IT Facilities: Heat generation from servers is highly localized, and portable cooling enables precise temperature control at the rack or aisle level without overcooling entire rooms. Industry resources, such as MovinCool, provide examples of how portable HVAC systems are deployed to address these concentrated heat zones efficiently. Manufacturing and Industrial Environments: Equipment and processes often create uneven temperature zones. Portable HVAC provides spot cooling for workers or machinery, improving both comfort and safety. Healthcare: Temporary clinics, isolation wards, or operating rooms often require rapid deployment of climate control. Portable HVAC offers the necessary flexibility without extensive infrastructure changes. Retail and Hospitality: Seasonal demand surges or facility renovations can strain existing systems. Portable HVAC allows businesses to maintain comfort without permanent installations. Events and Temporary Spaces: From outdoor tents to pop-up venues, portable units provide reliable climate control in environments where permanent systems are not practical. Technical Considerations for Effective Deployment While portable HVAC solutions provide many benefits, maximizing their efficiency requires careful planning: Sizing and Capacity Matching: Oversized or undersized units can lead to inefficiency. Proper load calculation ensures that the system delivers the required output without energy waste. Airflow Management: Ensuring adequate ventilation and proper ducting is crucial to prevent recirculation of hot air and to optimize cooling effectiveness. Placement and Mobility: Portable systems should be positioned for maximum coverage while allowing easy relocation as needs change. Integration with Existing Systems: Portable units work best when used in harmony with central HVAC systems. Thoughtful integration ensures balanced loads and consistent performance. Maintenance and Monitoring: Like all HVAC equipment, portable units require regular maintenance. Monitoring energy consumption and performance helps identify opportunities for further efficiency improvements. Broader Sustainability Context The adaptability of portable solutions supports a more resilient approach to climate control Beyond immediate operational benefits, portable HVAC systems play a role in broader sustainability initiatives. Energy efficiency directly translates to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, helping organizations meet corporate responsibility targets and regulatory requirements. Moreover, the adaptability of portable solutions supports a more resilient approach to climate control. In an era of frequent climate extremes and evolving workplace dynamics, the ability to scale cooling resources up or down, without overinvesting in permanent infrastructure, ensures both economic and environmental advantages. Looking Ahead As buildings become smarter and more connected, the role of portable HVAC systems is expected to expand As buildings become smarter and more connected, the role of portable HVAC systems is expected to expand.  Integration with building management systems (BMS), remote monitoring, and IoT-enabled controls will allow facilities to deploy portable units with even greater precision and automation. This evolution will strengthen their contribution to energy efficiency, comfort, and operational resilience. Portable HVAC systems are no longer seen merely as temporary stopgaps. They have become strategic tools for improving energy efficiency, providing targeted cooling, and enhancing flexibility across a variety of environments. Practical applications For more examples of practical applications, see resources like MovinCool’s Industrial Applications. By reducing strain on central systems, lowering energy consumption, and adapting to dynamic demands, portable solutions offer organizations a practical pathway toward both operational efficiency and sustainability. In a world where energy management and environmental responsibility are becoming top priorities, portable HVAC stands out as a versatile ally.

Carrier Abound, part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions, has been awarded a 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award by the Business Intelligence Group. The recognition is for its forward-thinking approach and measurable impact in driving sustainable building operations through Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) solutions. Now in its 10th year, the Sustainability Awards celebrate companies that are making a measurable difference in building a more sustainable future. This year’s edition honored organizations leading the way in net-zero strategies, climate equity, and AI-powered transformation. Carbon footprint This comprehensive solution tackles issues like fragmented data, manual operations The award underscores Carrier's commitment to helping retailers minimize the carbon footprint of their store operations through the renowned AI-powered Abound Insights platform, backed by global command centers. This comprehensive solution tackles issues like fragmented data, manual operations, and ineffective maintenance practices by creating smart ecosystems that can analyze information, make informed decisions, and automate routine tasks. Presently, Carrier Abound supports multi-site clients in enhancing operations across more than 33,000 stores globally. Honored and proud “We are honored and proud to receive the 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award,” said Yasir Qureshi, General Manager, Carrier Abound. He adds, “This recognition further strengthens our purpose and reflects our deep commitment to creating a lasting impact – for our customers, for the future generations to come, and for the world we share.” Reducing emissions In the past 12 months, Carrier Abound enabled retailers to save over 667 million kWh of energy globally, reduce emissions from truck rolls and HVAC refrigerant leakage, and build more efficient and future-ready operations. For a major retailer with over 2,100 stores in North America, refrigerant leaks were identified across approximately 5,300 rooftop units (RTUs) from May 2024 to September 2024. Timely intervention helped save over 161,300 pounds of refrigerant from further leakage, reducing emissions while preserving equipment health and ensuring operational continuity.

Anacove, the pioneering developer of AI-enabled, cloud-connected hotel energy and operations management software solutions, announced that its line of Smart Thermostats, Toilet Leak Detectors, Asset Tracking Tags, and Staff Safety Tags now integrate seamlessly with the SkyTouch Technology Hotel Property Management System (PMS). AI-enabled energy “The integration of our AI-enabled energy and operations management hotel software solutions with the SkyTouch PMS makes it easier than ever for hotel owner-operators to reduce waste, while increasing operational efficiency and staff safety,” said Anacove CEO, Ian Lerner. He adds, “SkyTouch Hotel OS users can now access all of the features and reporting capabilities of the Anacove solution directly from the SkyTouch dashboard and immediately begin increasing the money they save on energy loss and staff productivity.” Integration with SkyTouch The integration with SkyTouch follows earlier integrations with the IHG Hotels & Resorts, HotelKey, SynXis The integration with SkyTouch follows earlier integrations with the IHG Hotels & Resorts, HotelKey, SynXis, Cloudbeds, and Visual Matrix hotel Property Management Systems (PMS).  Ian Lerner continues, “Now, Anacove integrates with every major hotel industry PMS, ushering in a new era of profitability for hotel owners who are challenged to maximize the efficiency of every dollar they spend in energy management and operations.” Reporting and real-time access The SkyTouch Technology Hotel Property Management System (PMS) is an easy-to-use platform packed with features that help streamline hotel operations and empower hoteliers to make smarter business decisions.  In addition to core tools like Reservations, Direct Billing, Group Management, Housekeeping, and Automated Night Audits, the SkyTouch Technology PMS offers powerful reporting and real-time access from anywhere with an internet connection.  Its flexible modules are built to help hoteliers make data-driven decisions, manage labor costs more effectively, and enhance operational efficiency across the property. Collaborate with Anacove “SkyTouch is proud to collaborate with Anacove on their innovative, cloud-based interface that seamlessly integrates with our platform. This partnership exemplifies how modern, intuitive design can elevate operational efficiency and empower hoteliers to deliver exceptional guest experiences,” said Charlie Green, Sr. Director, Product Strategy and Innovation at SkyTouch. Innovative IoT devices Anacove Smart Thermostats are innovative IoT devices with advanced sensors that monitor temperature Designed and engineered to function as the hotel guest room ‘brain,’ Anacove Smart Thermostats are innovative IoT devices with advanced sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, air quality, and guest presence. These devices seamlessly integrate with a hotel’s HVAC system through its existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, allowing for centralized control throughout the hotel.  This enables continuous optimization of each room, regardless of occupancy status, leading to immediate and sustained cost savings. Unlike other occupancy-sensing thermostats, Anacove Smart Thermostats actively manage energy even when guests are asleep or have left their pet in the room. Anacove's devices, systems, and services Anacove Staff Safety Alert enables hotel staff to request immediate help anywhere on the property, while the Anacove Toilet Leak Detector identifies leaks to reduce water bills. Additionally, the Anacove Asset Tracking identifies the location of luggage carts and other items for rapid retrieval. Anacove's devices, systems, and services increase guest comfort as well as reduce energy and water expenses. Hotel owners and operators who deploy Anacove’s Thermostat typically gain a positive return on investment within 12 months, and in communities with high energy rates, this payback period is often six months or less.

For data centers close to residential areas, compliance with noise regulations is extremely important. Air conditioning systems can be problematic in this respect. Chillers with a cooling capacity of 500kW, in particular, often generate a lot of noise during operation. Here, low-noise solutions from STULZ ensure the necessary noise reduction. Data center operators For a data center running in continuous operation 24/7 all year round, there is genuine cause for concern As long as data centers are predominantly located on so-called greenfield sites outside of urban centers, noise emissions are not a major issue. However, these days even large data centers are being built ever closer to populated districts, so that data center operators can no longer avoid tackling the subject of noise optimization. This is especially the case in Germany, where strict noise regulations must be met, particularly in the hours of evening and night. Industrial and service companies – not to mention operators of concert halls and sports facilities – could tell them a thing or two about conflicts with local residents who say they are disturbed by noise. For a data center running in continuous operation 24/7 all year round, there is genuine cause for concern. Avoiding critical thresholds from the start To prevent potential conflict long before it rears its ugly head, data center operators must consistently use solutions with noise emissions that do not come anywhere near critical thresholds. Of course, this also applies to cooling systems with compressors, pumps, and fans that can produce not inconsiderable noise. Here, they recommend only installing systems and components that are so quiet that their operation is unproblematic, even at night time. However, what sounds good in theory is not always simple to achieve in practice. A classic dilemma is posed by chillers, which exceed approx. 500 kW of cooling capacity and are situated on or next to a data center. lowest noise emissions The restrictions on length and width imposed by chillers mean that smaller fans are generally installed The lowest noise emissions would be achieved using soundproof encapsulated compressors and maximum-size fans, which produce the necessary airflow with comparatively low speeds and can also keep noise to a minimum – as a system. However, it is evidently not easy to reconcile soundproof encapsulated compressors and large fans with the standardized sizes of chillers.  Hence the restrictions on length and width imposed by chillers mean that smaller fans are generally installed. These deliver the necessary capacity, but only at the price of higher speeds, which increases both noise emissions and energy costs. CW systems The rise in heat loads that goes hand in hand with the increased heat density in data centers has made the problem even worse: in order to overcome the resulting amounts of heat quietly and efficiently, even more chillers would in fact need to be installed on numerous data center sites.  Sometimes, however, there is insufficient space for this, so that the existing CW systems are under even more load than they were already. The result is higher electricity costs and high noise emissions. Cyber Cool 2 chillers Based on the results of these tests, systematic measures have been taken to minimize the amount of noise generated To provide data center operators with a way out of this dilemma and enable chillers to be used in residential areas, too, quite a number of manufacturers are equipping their fans with noise-reducing diffusers. Hamburg-based precision air conditioning specialist STULZ, on the other hand, is taking an alternative route, and manufactures its Cyber Cool 2 chillers with a view to reducing noise levels right from the start.  Even during the development phase, thorough research has gone into compressors, fans, and pumps, to examine their noise emissions during operation. Based on the results of these tests, systematic measures have been taken to minimize the amount of noise generated.  Soundproof encapsulated compressors, maximum-size fans The first approach to tackle noise reduction involved the compressors. In some chillers, they are so exposed that their operating noise is diffused into the environment largely unfiltered. Compressor housings, too, are frequently not noise optimized and, depending on their design, can even increase the noise level. At STULZ, on the other hand, the compressors are housed in a special, soundproof encapsulated chamber. Like the walls of a recording studio, their interior walls are completely lined with sound-insulating material, so that as little noise as possible reaches the outside. This first step in itself has greatly reduced noise emissions. Chillers' surface dimensions The action of a soundproof encapsulated compressor chamber was a key that enjoyed the benefit While the development of a soundproof encapsulated compressor chamber was a solution that enjoyed the benefit of experience from other industries, the question of optimizing fan noise levels was considerably more complex. Here, they needed to design a compact construction that enabled noise and efficiency values to be optimized while adhering to the chillers' standard surface dimensions.  STULZ solved this difficult task by installing maximum-size fans. These make the best possible use of the available space and are lined up next to one another so closely that they can barely slip a proverbial sheet of paper between them.  new fan system Finally, with diameters of 910 millimeters, they are so large that they can move the necessary volumes of air removed at moderate speeds, thereby working quietly and energy efficiently.  In order for the strengths of this new fan system to be exploited to the full, the entire air conduction system, from the intake through the heat exchangers to the fans, had to be redesigned. Free Cooling Coil with a large surface area STULZ's noise optimization concept is not just limited to soundproof compressor chambers and maximum-size fans with new air conduction, however, free cooling coils with a large surface area, which have been technically optimized based on sophisticated CFD analyses, are also important when it comes to reducing noise emissions. Here, STULZ's aim was to ensure that the coil surface was exploited to the full, as Free Cooling only reaches its maximum effectiveness if this prerequisite is met. If this objective is achieved, there is both a lack of air turbulence and therefore reduced noise. Internal coil elements Free Cooling coils that have been flow-optimized in this way enable the system to switch to Mixed mode The answer to this problem was special air baffles, which ensure an optimum flow of air onto the internal coil elements. Free Cooling coils that have been flow-optimized in this way enable the system to switch to Mixed mode – combined Free Cooling and compressor cooling – or even pure Free Cooling mode, if the outside temperature permits, as soon as possible. This keeps the overall running time of the compressors low and thereby noticeably reduces noise emissions produced during their operation. Furthermore, the optimized air conduction lowers the fan speed, therefore also contributing to reduced operating noise and energy costs. Incidentally, the CW system also benefits from the large coil surfaces in DX mode, as they ensure low condensing temperatures and a lower airflow speed. Conclusion With chillers like the STULZ Cyber Cool 2, data center operators now have solutions to hand for effectively reducing the noise emissions of the air conditioning system – with improved energy efficiency as a positive side effect. A prerequisite for the optimum function of this and similar solutions is, of course, that the entire refrigeration system is regarded and analyzed as a single unit, and the various steps toward optimization are taken progressively. If the above is complied with, the solution may be of interest in other areas, not just in data centers. The STULZ concept has now extended beyond the data center sector to draw attention from different fields of industry, and has thus acquired the status of a true cross-industry innovation.

Training has always been important in the heating sector, not least of all because of the dangers associated with working with gas, the traditionally dominant heating fuel in the UK. With the changes that are occurring across the heating industry, primarily the move towards decarbonization, manifesting in a transition to heat pumps, training is more important than ever. Principles of heat pump technology Training could take the form of a CPD on understanding the guides of heat pump technology That training could take the form of a CPD on understanding the principles of heat pump technology through to specific product training addressing installation, commissioning, and maintenance. Commercial heating training courses are abundant. Unless there is a specific manufacturer’s product you want to train on, how do you choose a training course and provider that is right for you? Here, we look at the key aspects to consider when selecting a training course and training provider. Expertise & knowledge By far the most important aspect of any training is the level of expertise and knowledge of the training providers. The training course needs to be both written and delivered by people who have direct experience in the heating industry. Knowledge or qualifications in training techniques and knowledge transfer are equally important. For contractor-based training, ideally, the trainers will have a background in heating engineering. This enables them to not only cover the core content of a training course but also address how it applies in real working-life situations. Knowledge or qualifications in training techniques and knowledge transfer are equally important. For specifiers looking to expand their knowledge through CPD courses, it’s helpful if these are presented by experienced Specification Managers who understand the needs of a specifier and have extensive knowledge of heating systems. On-site facilities The environment itself plays an important role in the success of the training The environment in which you learn plays an important role in the success (or otherwise) of the training itself, which is often overlooked. Being in a comfortable environment free from distractions will support you to better focus on your learning. Is the training held in a dedicated training center or a makeshift back office room? Is it a comfortable environment in terms of seating, desks, heating/air conditioning? Is the presentation equipment up to scratch? But most important of all, is the heating equipment you are learning about present, and is it functional? Training and Technology Centers  At our Training and Technology Centers, we provide learners with on-site access to a range of commercial heating equipment, including a unique thermodynamic heat pump simulator where they can view the change of state of refrigerant when in operation. Hands-on training for contractors is vital as it enables more learning by doing and problem solving, and therefore, greater depths of understanding can be gained. In our feedback survey, this comes up as one of the most important and popular aspects. It’s one thing to have something presented to you, but to be able to work through scenarios with expert support is quite another. Hands-on training for contractors is vital as it enables more learning by doing and problem-solving. Location A CIBSE-approved CPD, for example, doesn’t require hands-on training We’ve looked at the importance of how a training course is delivered, but where it is delivered also has a role to play. Does the training provider have training facilities nationwide, or in just one location? The latter could make for long travel times and even an overnight stay. Ideal Expert Academies are located around the UK at Hull, Leeds, Dalgety Bay, and Luton. Lastly, not all training needs to be done in person. A CIBSE-approved CPD, for example, doesn’t require hands-on training. In these instances, online training is a good, convenient option. Will the training provider be able to deliver this and how? Is it just a PowerPoint presentation, or are other elements included, such as video, attendee tasks, etc? Range of courses and delivery Having a range of courses is obviously important in that it provides you with choice and allows you to fill in the gaps of your knowledge, as well as learning about emerging technologies and best practices. A good training provider will also provide a flexible delivery model to meet individual learner needs and have the knowledge and expertise to support those with learning difficulties. Good training provider also provides a flexible delivery model to meet individual learner needs. Endorsement Ideal Heating’s adult learning provision was assessed by Ofsted, and they received an excellent report Whilst it’s important to do your own ‘homework’ on training providers, third-party endorsements are very useful. These come in different forms, from customer feedback (there are plenty of forums that provide you with the opportunity to ask for feedback), through to recognized industry awards, and independent assessment. Last year, Ideal Heating’s adult learning provision was assessed by Ofsted, and we received an excellent report, plus our Expert Academy team was recognized as Training Partner of 2024 by Hull City Council for delivering Skills Bootcamp programs for hundreds of learners in the area. We were also delighted to receive the inaugural BESA award for Training Provider of the Year 2024. Cost The last aspect I want to touch on when it comes to training is cost. How much should you pay for training? You should really consider the value you believe will be returned from the program and the provider you choose.  If you are going to benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, you may probably expect that experience may cost more than somewhere very simple and basic. Training providers are businesses, and the good ones do invest heavily in facilities and staff development. The good ones do invest heavily in facilities and staff development. Ideal Heating as a manufacturer strongly believe that our training services are part of what we deliver in our product sales. For this reason, we provide many of our training programs for free or at very low cost, despite the significant investment into our resources. Working alongside our specifiers and installers to meet their training needs builds for a strong relationship and successful projects. Choose wisely Taking time out from your busy schedule to dedicate to training is an investment, financially in some cases, so selecting your training course wisely to maximize that investment is sensible.

For warehouse and factory owners, cutting their heat energy bills by over 90% might seem like a pipedream. I’ve been in enough warehouses to know one thing: heating them is expensive and frustrating. It often feels like throwing money into the wind. However, times are changing, and with the introduction of Shortwave Infrared (SWI), a revolutionary technology set to redefine warehouse heating, business owners can finally achieve energy savings on the scale they need.  Shortwave Infrared (SWI) For warehouse owners, slashing heat energy bills by more than 90% might sound far-fetched. Having spent time in countless warehouses, I know one thing: heating them is both costly and frustrating like throwing money into thin air.  But times are changing. With the arrival of Shortwave Infrared (SWI), a ground-breaking technology poised to transform warehouse heating, business owners can now achieve the substantial energy savings they've been seeking.  Beyond the Status Quo  Faced with soaring bills, warehouse, and factory owners are actively seeking better alternatives For years, warehouse heating has been stuck in a cycle of inefficiency opting for bulky systems that consume vast amounts of energy but offer little in return. High heating bills were once seen as an unavoidable cost of doing business. However, the energy price hikes of 2021 and 2022 completely changed the game, straining heating budgets and forcing a rethink of what's acceptable.  But there are positives to find in the situation. Faced with soaring bills, warehouse, and factory owners are actively seeking better alternatives.  Next-gen technology An industry long overdue for disruption has finally found the push it needed to embrace 'next-gen' technology. Enter Shortwave Infrared, ready to take the spotlight.  At the forefront of the heating revolution, it’s delivering unprecedented energy savings and cost efficiency, setting a new standard for businesses nationwide.  Lost in Translation  So, what sets SWI apart, and why does it outperform current systems? It all comes down to SWI's core heating principles. One of the most rewarding moments of my career was seeing the reaction of workers, shivering in a drafty space, suddenly feeling the warmth from SWI heaters. Their faces said it all – they couldn’t believe how something so simple could work so effectively.  However, the main issue is that currently, the warehouse and logistics sector largely depends on convection heating, which works by warming the air within a space. While this might be adequate for smaller, enclosed areas, it falls short in large, open-plan spaces where heat quickly dissipates.  Basic physics Turning up the thermostat won’t help either, as the principles are floored from the beginning It all comes down to basic physics, warm air rises. In buildings with high ceilings, this means heat drifts upwards, leaving workers on the ground cold, while the warmth stays out of reach. The issue is made worse by large doors and windows, which allow even more heat to escape.  For those lucky enough to be near a heater, it can be hit-or-miss. Turning up the thermostat won’t help either, as the principles are floored from the beginning. You’ll just be draining budgets quicker than before. SWI: A New Frontier  On the other hand, Shortwave Infrared Heating offers a revolutionary solution. By providing localized heat, it ensures workers stay comfortable and productive, regardless of the ambient temperature.​ Unlike traditional heating systems, SWI eliminates heat loss by targeting individuals directly – a feeling akin to the warm sun on your back. This strategic approach not only saves energy, but also creates a more comfortable workspace, making it an ideal solution for businesses seeking major efficiency and cost savings.  Cost and carbon savings Unlike convection heating, SWI also delivers consistent warmth, eliminating cold spots.  Additionally, its electric power source offers substantial cost and carbon savings, making it a sensible choice for those looking to align their heating systems with ESG initiatives.  The Verdict is In  By implementing SWIR, we helped them achieve a 90% reduction in energy consumption The good news is that the word is out, and companies are now reporting over 90% energy savings while drastically reducing their carbon footprints. A recent customer faced the challenge of heating a massive 5,000-square-meter space. By implementing SWIR, we helped them achieve a 90% reduction in energy consumption, exceeding expectations.  Annual energy consumption The numbers speak for themselves. Annual energy consumption dropped from 150,000 kWh (gas) to 16,000 kWh (electricity), showcasing the incredible potential for change in UK businesses. This is just one example, imagine what we can achieve rolling out SWI across the country,  The positive impact on the bottom line has prompted the company to implement SWI across all of its UK sites. As a sustainability-driven business, SWI provides a crucial solution to reduce reliance on carbon-heavy fossil fuels.  The Future is Bright  SWI's potential to transform warehouse and logistics is endless and businesses are now waking up to its potential, and are rightly being drawn in by the idea of significant cost and carbon savings. It’s a shift in mindset that’s challenging traditional heating methods. By focusing on precise, targeted warmth, rather than wasteful, resource-heavy convection heating, UK businesses are already saving millions of pounds each year.  Efficiency of infrared technological challenges Business owners are accustomed to thinking of heating as raising the overall temperature of a space Yet one of the biggest challenges the industry faces is a mental one, not a mechanical one. Business owners are accustomed to thinking of heating as raising the overall temperature of a space. However, this outdated approach fails to consider the efficiency of infrared technology, which delivers focused warmth directly to workers, equipment, or specific areas.  Impact of SWI I'm always thrilled to see the reactions of customers amazed by the impact of SWI. However, we need more people to embrace this innovative heating method, which means winning more hearts and minds.  For those ready to make the switch, the benefits will be substantial, potentially saving thousands, if not millions, on heating bills at a time when they need it most.

Data centers worldwide are under intense pressure. High-powered computing is a global necessity that seemingly gets more demanding by the day. There’s also the need to prioritize sustainability improvements ranging from resource conservation to decarbonization. And data centers must consider their bottom line and remain competitive. Anticipating the challenges data centers will continue to face, scientists and engineers have innovated two-phase (2-PIC) immersion cooling. With the capacity to meet the elevated cooling requirements driven by high-powered computing, this next-generation solution delivers on environmental priorities by significantly lowering data center energy consumption, slashing, if not eliminating, water use, while supporting decarbonization, circularity missions, and more. Emergence of 2-PIC Traditional approaches are fast approaching capacity for meeting current and future cooling needs The emergence of 2-PIC comes at a critical time, because the traditional cooling methods that have kept data centers up and running so far—namely air cooling and water cooling—are doing so at the detriment of the planet.  Additionally, these traditional approaches are quickly approaching capacity for meeting current and future cooling needs. Air- and water-cooling methods are used in approximately 95% of the estimated 8,000 data centers that exist today. The criticality of high-powered computing Once seen as a future need, high-powered computing, and faster-than-ever processing are now established as critical to the operation of businesses, governments, organizations, and other entities that support the way communities function, survive, and thrive. Whether it’s health and wellness, financial institutions, economic growth, safety and protection, entertainment, education, or any other service supporting our way of life, successfully providing that service fully depends on the ability of data centers to quickly and reliably obtain, store, and process data.  Influence of AI AI has a profound influence and, generates far more power than traditional internet uses Moreover, when we say “data centers,” we’re not just speaking of big players like Microsoft, Google, Meta, and Amazon. Equally dependent on high-performance, high-speed computing are enterprise data center operators, such as our governments and military, financial institutions, healthcare systems, educational institutions, and more.  We also must acknowledge the profound influence of artificial intelligence (AI), which generates far more power than traditional internet uses. Its effects are far-reaching, enhancing patient care, supporting risk management and fraud detection in finance, boosting crop yields within agriculture, and more. The environmental costs of data centers According to the latest estimates by the International Energy Agency, data centers worldwide produce 1% of energy-related carbon emissions and in 2022 used approximately 460 TWh of electricity per year—equating to 2% of global electricity demand. McKinsey and Company estimates 40% of this electricity is used for data center cooling. Data centers’ impact on the environment also includes their significant water consumption, averaging 300,000 gallons per day, and a physical footprint that averages 100,000 square feet but in the case of some hyperscale data centers can range between 1.3 to 2 million square feet. In terms of growth, a U.S. market report from Newmark tells us that in the U.S. alone, the U.S. data center footprint will absorb 35 gigawatts by 2030, which is more than twice the data center power consumption of 2022. The emergence of liquid cooling: the elevated interest in 2-PIC From reducing energy and water consumption to shrinking physical footprints, 2-PIC offers the planet a better data center solution. In less than two years, traditional cooling systems won’t be able to support the exponential growth in the world’s data processing and storage applications. Based on publicly available product roadmaps from major chip manufacturers, by 2026, air-cooled systems will no longer be able to meet the cooling needs of most next-generation, high-performance computing chips. Capable of removing heat more effectively than air cooling, liquid cooling uses a liquid such as water or a dielectric fluid to cool the heat-generating components of servers. The liquid can cool these components directly, or it can be done indirectly through a heat exchanger. With two-phase immersion cooling the entire server rack is submerged in a tank filled with a dielectric fluid. Single-phase and two-phase liquid cooling Single-phase liquid cooling uses a pump to circulate the liquid through a closed-loop system Single-phase liquid cooling uses a pump to circulate the liquid through a closed-loop system. Two-phase liquid cooling uses a phase-change material, such as a refrigerant, which evaporates and condenses as it absorbs and releases heat. With 2-PIC, which is a form of two-phase liquid cooling, the entire server rack is submerged in a tank filled with dielectric fluid. The fluid boils as it’s heated by the components of the servers, creating bubbles that rise to the surface and condense in a heat exchanger. Gravity then returns the condensed fluid to the tank, creating a natural circulation loop that does not require pumps or fans. Advantages of 2-PIC 2-PIC is commanding attention as the solution for meeting the cooling demands of the high-powered computing components of today and tomorrow. Moreover, the technology of 2-PIC systems, combined with the right dielectric fluid, delivers advantages to “take the heat off” data centers. Here’s a breakdown of additional 2-PIC benefits: Up to 90% reduction in energy consumption: Based on modeling completed by the industry, 2-PIC is expected to reduce up to 90% of data center cooling energy consumption and 40% of overall data center energy consumption*. (*Compared to traditional air-cooling technologies) Enhanced computing performance and data center reliability: 2-PIC allows servers to operate at higher temperatures and power densities, while reducing the risk of overheating. Significant reduction in water consumption: Depending on the data center location and cooling design methodology, water consumption could even be eliminated completely. 60% reduction in the physical footprint: 2-PIC reduces the space required for cooling equipment, freeing up more floor area for servers and increasing the rack density of the data center. Lower GWP and circularity: Chemours Opteon™ 2P50 is a developmental dielectric heat-transfer fluid, currently pre-commercial, pending regulatory approval. It offers an extremely low global warming potential (GWP) of 10 and was specifically created to optimize the performance of the electronic components in a 2-PIC system. This 2-PIC fluid also enables the reprocessing/reuse of existing fluid to maximize circularity.  The bottom line: In addition to other compelling data, a recent study commissioned by Chemours and LiquidStack through Syska Hennessy, revealed that, compared with other state-of-the-art liquid cooling methods, 2-PIC can deliver up to a 40% lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and significantly reduce operational expenditures (OPEX), with savings ranging from 54% to 88.6%. Benefits of new data center cooling technologies compared to single-phase direct-to-chip, and single-phase immersion methods. 2-PIC, the future-ready solution As the world’s reliance on AI and other high-powered computing capabilities escalates, data center cooling solutions must grow with demand while significantly reducing their impact on the environment. In global energy savings alone, 2-PIC could generate an estimated savings of 340 TWh by 2055—the equivalent of powering more than 517 million laptops 24/7. And even with increasing IT loads, 2-PIC maintains its performance, ensuring long-term cost-effectiveness and adaptability to meet future demands. With society at a crossroads between the criticality of high-powered computing and a planet in crisis, the industry is turning its attention to 2-PIC as the solution for today and tomorrow.

Data centers play a pivotal role in supporting the flow of information across our digital economy. However, the transmission of large amounts of data also requires a lot of energy. Viewing data centers as potential heat sources offers an opportunity to use this otherwise wasted heat to warm nearby homes and businesses using technologies like heat pumps and heat networks. The approach will lower the environmental impact of these buildings filled with computer servers, and it will support the transition to renewable heating as we look toward net zero. Heat recovery systems Heat recovery systems are designed to facilitate the re-use of heat energy via technologies like heat pumps Heat recovery systems are designed to facilitate the re-use of heat energy via technologies like heat pumps and heat networks, says Simon Prichard, EMEA ITC Business Leader, Mitsubishi Electric, within the Living Environmental Systems division. The heat generated by data centers, usually around 30-35°C (85-90°F), is increased by heat pumps to 70-80°C (160-175°F), making it suitable for heating nearby buildings or supplying hot water. “However, when choosing which heat recovery approach to go for, it's important to take into account the data center’s size, location, and proximity to the desired reuse location,” says Simon Prichard, adding “These factors determine the most efficient method for heat recovery and distribution.” Reusing heat from data centers via heat pumps “Reusing heat from data centers through heat pumps and heat networks drives down costs by reducing the amount of heat going to waste and ultimately increasing energy efficiency,” continues Simon Prichard. However, Simon Prichard emphasizes these cost benefits must be communicated and outlined clearly to ensure stakeholders are aware. More awareness will, in turn, drive adoption forward. Wider awareness and adoption Wider awareness and adoption are already happening with plans for utilizing waste heat within London's district heating networks, notes Prichard. The scheme uses ejected heat from a data center to power heating demand for nearby homes A real-life example is Amazon’s Tallaght data center in Dublin, which is the country's first low carbon district heating network. The scheme uses ejected heat from a data center to power heating demand for nearby homes, and peak requests in winter are satisfied by dedicated heat pumps and a heat pump module. The network is estimated to reduce pollutant emissions in the South Dublin County region by nearly 1,500 tons per year. Mitsubishi Electric’s CPD-Certified Guide Mitsubishi Electric’s newly released CPD-Certified Guide aims to educate data center owners, managers and policymakers on the role heat reuse can play in decarbonizing these buildings. “It provides insight into how we can reduce the carbon footprint of these spaces by viewing them as a source of heat energy, as well as the solutions available and what needs to be considered before making the switch,” says Simon Prichard, adding “In doing so, it aims to support owners and managers in transitioning to heat recovery in their building and reducing the environmental impact of these spaces to support the United Kingdom’s wider journey towards net zero.” Communicating the benefits of heat reuse in data centers “Communicating the benefits of heat reuse in data centers can promote greater cooperation from stakeholders – whether that's owners and managers, governments, or manufacturers,” says Simon Prichard. Raising awareness of the environmental impact of data centers and the role heat recovery can play in reducing that impact can position data centers as part of the solution for a decarbonized future. Developing heat networks “Continuing to develop heat networks at the same scale as other European countries will also help make reusing this energy to heat surrounding buildings a reality and put what we see across other countries into practice in the UK,” states Simon Prichard.

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.

Gaining early popularity in the 1970s, previous generations of heat pumps were only considered useful in mild climates. But today, modern heat pumps, especially variable-speed mini-split heat pumps, are reliable, sustainable, and used in various ways, including ways our parents and grandparents would never have thought of. New uses include she sheds, man caves, garages, tiny homes, sunrooms, and even boats.  We spoke to Sean Gallagher, Regional Sales Manager, Eastern Massachusetts, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), to discuss how people use heat pumps in the U.S. and abroad. He described some of the technology's varied (and sometimes surprising!) uses.  Q: What are the most common applications of heat pumps on boats and marine crafts, and how do they differ from residential or commercial uses?  Gallagher: I know one Diamond Contractor® who installed a heat pump on his father’s yacht. Since my territory includes Southeast Massachusetts and Rhode Island, I frequently see heat pumps on the large car-carrying and passenger-carrying ferries. Although commercial applications like ferries are more common, I think we will see more heat pumps on people’s boats and yachts, especially since we use an anti-corrosion coating that protects the outdoor heat exchanger against salt, sulfur and other airborne contaminants that impact the efficiency and performance of outdoor units.   Q: What are some other "off-beat" or previously underappreciated applications for heat pumps – she sheds, man caves, garages, tiny homes, sunrooms, or something similar?  Heat pumps are being used in high-end campers like Airstreams, smaller campers, parking lot kiosks Gallagher: All those applications apply, and there’s plenty more. My niece lives in a 400-square-foot studio apartment over my garage that’s heated and cooled with a heat pump. I also installed a low, wall-mounted heat pump unit in my father’s tool and woodworking shed. Since his tools hang on the wall, he didn’t want to give up any wall space, so now, he has a climate-controlled workshop that suits his needs. Heat pumps are also being used in high-end campers like Airstreams, smaller campers, parking lot kiosks, food trucks, and even intermodal shipping containers turned into spaces like laboratories.   Q: What are the key advantages of using variable-speed mini-split heat pumps in smaller applications in various climates?  Gallagher: All-climate heat pumps can conquer any climate in New England and most of the United States. Overall, variable-speed mini-split heat pumps provide efficiency, ease of installation, comfort, and quiet, regardless of outdoor temperature. Some of the best heat pumps on the market provide warmth, even if the temperature drops to a chilly –22 degrees F. At the opposite end of the thermometer, heat pump systems can cool indoor spaces when it’s a scorching 115 degrees F.  Q: How does the equipment used for these applications differ from the equipment in more common HVAC use cases?  Gallagher: In most HVAC use cases, people use a unitary, conventional HVAC device to heat a home. However, the market has been moving away from unitary devices toward having custom control in every room. Think about if you turned on your kitchen faucet and every faucet in the house turned on, or if you turned on your bedroom light and every light in your home turned on with it. It’s inefficient, which is how unitary systems work. All-climate heat pumps give precise temperature control and custom comfort in any area, whether it’s a shed, man cave, or garage. Each person can heat or cool the space to their comfort level. This is how heat pumps work in general and in these off-beat use cases.  Q: How has the reliability of modern heat pump technology expanded the potential for marine and other applications?   One-to-one heat pumps are perfect for smaller applications because of their turn-down ratio Gallagher: Since Mitsubishi Electric’s Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i®) technology is not new – having come out around 2009 – the technology has grown by leaps and bounds. Today’s one-to-one heat pumps are perfect for smaller applications because of their turn-down ratio. They can ramp up quickly and then throttle back to meet the needs of a space, through a setpoint, in heating and cooling to use only the energy necessary to maintain the comfort of that indoor space. Multi-zone applications can handle larger spaces with ease and efficiency.  Q: Can you provide examples of how heat pumps are being used on boats or marine crafts in the U.S. and abroad? What technologies are they replacing?  Gallagher: Heat pumps are replacing electric-resistance heat, gas-fired HVAC units, and hydronic systems for watercraft powered by steam. For cooling, heat pumps are replacing chilled water systems on larger ships. Heat pumps are frequently used on large car-carrying and passenger-carrying ferries. I also know of people who have installed them on yachts and other boats, which I think will become more prevalent.  Q: What are the challenges HVAC professionals might face when installing and maintaining heat pumps on boats and/or in smaller applications?  The biggest challenge they face is contending with the caustic nature of the saltwater environment Gallagher: For maritime applications, the biggest challenge they face is contending with the caustic nature of the saltwater environment. I mentioned this a minute ago, but salt can degrade non-ferrous metals, like copper and aluminum. It’s crucial to use an anti-corrosion coating that protects the outdoor heat exchanger against salt, sulfur, and other airborne contaminants that impact the efficiency and performance of outdoor units. Some companies specialize in taking heat pumps apart and coating all the parts that could corrode to prevent them from doing so. This makes the heat pumps last much longer than they otherwise would.  Q: How does the installation of heat pumps on boats align with the growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable solutions in the marine industry?  Gallagher: Energy-efficient heat pumps consume far less energy than a conventional HVAC system. Heat pump systems cycle hot and cold air where it’s wanted depending on the season and provide personalized comfort on a boat year-round. Modern heat pumps, especially variable-speed mini-split heat pumps, are reliable and sustainable, providing high-performance heating and air conditioning on boats anywhere, even in extremely cold or warm climates. Heat pumps are preferable in most climates, as the efficacy of a heat pump is generally 1.5 to 4 times greater when compared with electric resistance heating. {##Poll1731297929 - Which of these applications for heat pumps seems most surprising?##}

Is it possible to engineer a sense of peace? That’s the challenge the development team behind Velvære has set for themselves. Velvære is a Park City, UT luxury development, which debuted its first residence in 2024. It’s named for the Norwegian concept of well-being, a way of life the entire community is built to promote and embody. Velvære “Velvære” includes not just personal satisfaction, but a sense of connection to nature; the practice of giving back to the community; an embrace of outdoor recreation; and prioritizing coziness or “koselig.” Cultivating “velvære” means bringing your physical, social, emotional, and spiritual life into balance. This holistic sense of peace and fulfillment is the new luxury. With Velvære in Park City, Bonfire Collective set out to create an intentional community where the built environment exists in harmony with both the natural world and residents’ needs, promoting this balance in every respect. The Velvære Vision Velvære is a 60-acre development adjacent to Park City’s Deer Valley Resort® Velvære is a 60-acre development adjacent to Park City’s Deer Valley Resort®. Upon completion, it will include 115 private residences, including paired homes, cabins, and sites for private estates. Velvære is designed to offer residents an elevated experience that is nonetheless completely connected to the natural world. The 2300-2400 sq. ft. cabins and 3000-5500 sq. ft. paired homes embody the concept of wellness as luxury.  With warm, natural finishes bathed in sunlight from panoramic windows, the homes will feature ski-in/ ski-out access. Homes with customizable Synergistic Sanctuary Spaces In an effort to prioritize intentional wellbeing, each residence will feature customizable Synergistic Sanctuary Spaces that transform the concept of a “healthy home.” These in-home sanctuary spaces feature environmentally forward design and amenities, a treatment room (with storage to hold equipment), steam shower, cold/hot plunge, and a HaloIR Sauna. Bonfire Collective has a discerning eye for detail born from the company’s shared roots with storied luxury home builder - Magleby Construction. They are committed to ensuring that everything from the construction materials to the mechanical systems align with their mission of creating communities for intentional living. Minimized carbon footprint As part of the commitment to “velvære,’ each residence is designed to minimize its carbon footprint and use shared energy resources responsibly. Homes are built with pathways to solar, so that residents may choose to add renewable energy collection and storage with no infrastructure retrofit required. Residents can also opt-in to a “time of use” demand response program that will automate certain activities Each home also comes equipped with an energy management system that allows residents to set their priorities and goals for energy usage – part of a ‘single pane of glass’ Crestron home automation system that manages everything from lights and AV to security and safety sensors. Residents can also opt-in to a “time of use” demand response program that will automate certain activities – e.g. running the dishwasher – to occur during times of lowest grid demand.  Making HVAC Part of the Mission HVAC system efficiency was naturally crucial to the Velvære’s sustainability goals – but the HVAC system designs for these luxury homes need to achieve more than just efficiency. They need to support the crucial ‘coziness’ element, welcoming residents in from a ski run or a summer hike to an ideal environment. That might mean toasty floors in the winter, a cool living room in the summer, or even different temperatures for different rooms and activities year-round. It is also critical the HVAC systems avoid adding complexity to overall home management. Bonfire Collective prioritized bringing HVAC control into the Crestron home automation system, unifying home management and preserving a simple, elegant end-user experience. “Sustainability is only one aspect of our goals for Velvære,” said Chad Magleby, Partner at Bonfire Collective, adding “It’s part of wellness, which is in turn part of ‘velvære.’ We believe that a specific desire for personal wellness will drive more change than a broad preference for sustainability.” Engineered for Coziness Bonfire Collective contracted Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing to engineer Velvære’s HVAC systems Bonfire Collective contracted Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing to engineer Velvære’s HVAC systems. This family-owned business has served American Fork, UT continuously for over a century; they brought both advanced expertise and a deep connection to the community, central to the project’s mission. Gunther’s Heating, Cooling and Plumbing designed a system that delivers on the concept of koselig year-round. A natural gas radiant floor system warms the homes in the winter, melting snow from parkas and mittens and warming residents’ toes as they step out of their boots after a black diamond run. Zoned heat pumps Zoned heat pumps control the upper-end of the set point range, allowing residents to maintain a cozy kitchen without allowing home office and master suite spaces on the upper floors to get stuffy. In the summer, the same heat pumps deliver zoned air conditioning throughout the home. The specifying engineer selected Mitsubishi SMART MULTI Hyper-heating heat pumps for this project. These highly versatile Inverter units offer superior efficiency, and their multi-position design allows Gunther to spec them for any Velvære floorplan. A typical Velvære paired home includes three SMART MULTI units, as well as an AprilAire Humidifier to keep these homes comfortable in the dry Mountain West climate. Sophistication Meets Simplicity Indeed, ideally, they should not have to manage the HVAC system at all The engineering team recognized that residents would not want to separately manage radiant and electric heating systems. Indeed, ideally, they should not have to manage the HVAC system at all: temperature and humidity should be orchestrated by the Crestron home automation system without a second thought. To unify operation of the two-stage heating system, manage zoning control, and enable two-way communication between the Crestron home automation system and Mitsubishi Inverter units, the specifying engineer turned to Airzone. Airzone VAF solution Airzone is a major provider of intelligent HVAC control solutions, with an exclusive library of HVAC manufacturer protocols. For the homes of Velvære, Gunthers Heating, Cooling and Plumbing used the Airzone VAF solution. This flexible zoned HVAC system controller supports control of ducted and ductless systems from major manufacturers. Airzone VAF can control heating, cooling and schedules for multiple zones, allowing the engineers to optimize the comfort of each Velvære home. Uniquely, Airzone allows simultaneous control of a two-stage heating system with both radiant and air from a single thermostat. Airzone VAF connects to Crestron home automation system Airzone VAF connects directly to the “single pane of glass” Crestron home automation system. Airzone offers a dedicated RESTful API driver for the Crestron Home® OS that allows HVAC controllers to be integrated without custom programming, additional wiring, or WAN connection. Via the Airzone controller, the HVAC system becomes part of the holistic home management system Via the Airzone controller, the HVAC system becomes part of the holistic home management system. The user only needs to interact with one interface. When the user changes a set point, or the home enters automation, such as “eco mode,” or “vacation mode,” the Crestron system communicates to the Airzone controller, which then translates the commands into the requisite manufacturers’ protocols for the radiant heat system, heat pumps, fans, temperature sensors, etc. The home is managed as a unified whole, in alignment with the spirit of Velvære. The Velvære Journey Begins As Velvære welcomes its first residents, Bonfire Collective is offering luxury homeowners a new kind of mindful living. The community is designed to support connection to the natural world as a top priority. Homeowners who wish to carefully manage their carbon footprint can monitor and optimize their energy sources and consumption through the Crestron home automation system. They can also monitor their natural gas consumption specifically via an exclusive pulse device on home meters. Elegant HVAC and home automation system design The community’s elegant HVAC and home automation system design is integral to achieving that balance The community’s elegant HVAC and home automation system design is integral to achieving that balance. “Our laboratory testing indicates that properly controlled Inverter HVAC systems offer energy savings of 45% on average compared to traditional units,” said Victoria Garcia Massimo, North America Operations Manager for Airzone. She adds, “Zoned systems can achieve energy savings of 60% or more. When an HVAC system is part of a holistic building and energy management system, as in Velvære, these effects are amplified. The more deeply we integrate these systems, the more good we can achieve.” Tracking the community’s performance Bonfire Collective and their partners plan to track the community’s performance. “Our intent on a community scale is to exist in balance with nature,” says Magleby, adding “As Velvære grows, we plan to monitor aggregate energy consumption and eventually seek ways to offset our fossil fuel usage through the HOA.” Integration with IoT systems The concept of ‘velvære’ recognizes that well-being requires connection. Integration with IoT systems, such as home and building automation is essential to participating in this vision. By designing homes and a community that promotes enjoying and taking care of the natural world, Velvære represents an ambitious path forward for the industry, where HVAC systems are a key element of a better, more connected life.

The Holiday Inn Express San Diego South – Chula Vista is a contemporary 3-star hotel with 88 spacious guest rooms across four floors. The property offers easy access to downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Zoo, beaches, and the Convention Center – making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers. Amenities include a year-round outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, business facilities, and free parking. Competing in one of the nation’s most demanding hospitality markets, the hotel is constantly looking for ways to improve efficiency and service. Smart thermostats General Manager Victor M. Carrera recently introduced Anacove AI-powered Smart Thermostats To meet these challenges, General Manager Victor M. Carrera recently introduced Anacove AI-powered Smart Thermostats and Asset Tracking devices, along with an initial pilot of the company’s Staff Alert Smart Nametag solution. All are controlled through the easy-to-use Anacove Smart Dashboard, which provides real-time insights without adding complexity for staff, generating monthly flash reports summarizing energy savings and asset activity. The deployment quickly delivered measurable results. Energy savings “We’ve already noted measurable energy savings and project results in line with our sister hotels,” said Carrera. “I’ve also been very impressed by the Anacove Smart Thermostat’s ability to pre-cool rooms before arrival, a great advantage that improves guest satisfaction while also reducing HVAC strain. The system also flags malfunctioning AC units early, allowing us to deploy our maintenance teams before problems escalate – helping to reduce repair costs and mitigate guest complaints.” Energy efficiency There has been a clear drop in monthly electric bills and lower kilowatt-hour usage Energy efficiency was the most immediate benefit. There has been a clear drop in monthly electric bills and lower kilowatt-hour usage, in line with other Holiday Inn Express properties. A previous trial by Holiday Inn parent company IHG Hotels & Resorts showed Anacove Smart Thermostats significantly reducing HVAC energy use. With savings of 30-40% on average and a payback period of 12-14 months. San Diego is reporting similar results, according to Carrera. Anacove Asset Tracking Devices Operational gains go beyond HVAC. By tagging luggage carts and cribs with Anacove Asset Tracking Devices, the hotel has virtually eliminated losses and has slashed retrieval times. Staff can now instantly locate equipment for reassignment or billing via the dashboard, eliminating one of the most common frustrations in hotel operations. This accountability saves time and ensures items are always available for guests. Remote AC control “With remote AC control, front desk teams can fix room comfort issues instantly without sending maintenance, remotely via the simple dashboard from the front desk – eliminating the need to physically go to the room,” explained Carrera. “That frees them up for other tasks and means guests benefit from quicker, more efficient service. Being able to easily locate hotel collateral is a boon too. All of these time savings are already feeding into better guest satisfaction and will likely reduce our payroll costs in the long run.” Staff safety Staff safety has also been strengthened through location-enabled name tags, currently in use by a third of the 30-strong team. Initially met with caution, the devices have quickly proven their worth. They allow for rapid response in emergencies – especially in areas not covered by cameras – and provide hotel management with data on room servicing times, which helps improve training and workflows. Support and affordability Carrera praised Anacove’s attentive support and affordability compared to larger competitors Reflecting on the rollout, Carrera praised Anacove’s attentive support and affordability compared to larger competitors. Keen to work closely with Anacove on any potential improvements, he suggested dashboard enhancements such as a map-based view to visualize asset and staff locations, and also expressed interest in predictive diagnostics – such as identifying AC compressor issues before failure – that could further reduce costs. User-friendly dashboard “I’m delighted with both Anacove’s solutions, backed up by the user-friendly dashboard, and the company’s close involvement with the requirements of our business,” Carrera said. “We’ve seen electric bills go down, we can pre-cool rooms for our guests, and we’re identifying non-working AC units faster.” He added: “The identifiers for luggage carts and cribs have minimized losses and improved accountability, and the name tags with location devices enhance staff safety and allow us to monitor performance. Anacove’s support has been excellent, and their solutions are cost-effective compared to others in the market.” AI-driven Anacove’s solutions By adopting AI-driven Anacove’s solutions, the Holiday Inn Express San Diego South – Chula Vista has established itself as a sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking hospitality property in a highly competitive market, where guest expectations are high and operational margins are tight. With technology that is both powerful and simple to use, the hotel is reducing energy and payroll costs, strengthening safety, and enhancing the guest experience – illustrating how smart systems can deliver a genuinely competitive edge in modern hospitality.

As part of its commitment to champion healthy indoor environments, Carrier has teamed up with the American Lung Association to support indoor air quality (IAQ) research in schools through the development of a case study on IAQ and its impact on student well-being. The American Lung Association is a national non-profit committed to improving respiratory health through education and research. Unhealthy air conditions The study highlights the correlation between IAQ, student health and academic performance The Data-Driven Indoor Air Quality in Schools Study was conducted at Lakes International Language Academy (LILA), an International Baccalaureate World School serving pre-K through 12th-grade students in Forest Lake, Minnesota. The study highlights the correlation between IAQ, student health, and academic performance. According to the American Lung Association, unhealthy air conditions have been proven to increase airborne illnesses, initiate frequent asthma attacks and hinder academic success. Indoor air quality "Carrier is proud to collaborate with the American Lung Association to help schools create healthier, more productive learning environments," said Gaurang Pandya, President, Climate Solutions America, Carrier. He adds, "With individuals spending over 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality isn’t just important — it’s essential. Carrier offers a full suite of solutions schools need to improve air quality, support student well-being, and build trust with families and communities." Carrier donated products and services Carrier donated products and services, including 137 air quality sensors, 70 cellular hubs In addition to supporting the IAQ research, Carrier donated products and services, including 137 air quality sensors, 70 cellular hubs, sensor installation, and an HVAC assessment.  The school also received one year of access to Carrier Abound, an open digital platform that connects with equipment or hardware and provides real-time metrics to help determine whether a building is healthy and sustainable. Carrier’s innovative solutions With assistance from Carrier’s innovative solutions, researchers were able to identify several actionable interventions that may help improve the school’s IAQ.  By prioritizing regular HVAC maintenance, monitoring systems and adjusting HVAC schedules during peak hours, administrators can make informed, timely decisions to support student health. Findings from this research equip schools, such as LILA, with the tools to create IAQ Management Plans to sustain high air quality standards.

With a reputation for uncompromising integrity, HDG Legacy is an experienced voice in the hospitality industry for those looking to build, own, and operate hotels. As both a respected developer and preferred management company, the Legacy team employs its core values of teamwork, communication, innovation, leadership and resourcefulness, and has an established reputation for positively impacting the hospitality sector. Currently, Legacy manages and maintains nine hotels that it owns, with its tenth opening July 2025. Rising energy and water costs  A commitment to improving and innovating hotels means that Legacy is alive to the economic challenges facing hoteliers, not least in operational challenges because of rising energy and water costs. With profit margins often razor-thin, even small innovations can mean the difference between profit and loss, so it was no surprise that Legacy looked to Anacove’s unique AI- and Cloud-powered Smart Thermostats, Leak Detection and Asset Management systems to help give its hotel clients the edge in their energy and water management. Anacove’s Smart Thermostats  “One of my core beliefs is that operating a business that respects the environment in terms of how resources are utilized is important just because that's the right thing to do – but there's also an economic benefit,” explained Navroz F. Saju, Founder and Principal at HDG Legacy. “We initially tested Anacove’s Smart Thermostats across our express properties, before piloting them in one of our larger hotels, and we were so impressed with the results (we actually have the data showing the savings for 2024-25 thus far – very impressive!) that we are looking to roll out the solutions across our other properties.” Electricity consumption reduced He continued, “We started using Anacove Smart Thermostats in July 2024 at the Holiday Inn Express Crystal River, and based on historical data and usage, electricity costs on our utility bills are 35.94% lower per occupied room.” “The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala’s electricity costs were 33% less than what we’d budgeted for per room, with the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Inverness-Lecanto coming in at 43% lower than budgeted in electricity usage.” Features of Smart Thermostats  Anacove’s Smart Thermostats are innovative IoT devices with advanced sensors Anacove’s Smart Thermostats are innovative IoT devices with advanced sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, air quality, barometric pressure, current weather conditions, daylight conditions and guest presence. They seamlessly integrate with HVAC systems through existing hotel WiFi infrastructure, allowing for centralized control throughout the hotel. This enables continuous optimization of each room, regardless of occupancy status, leading to immediate and sustained cost savings. Unlike other occupancy-sensing thermostats, Anacove Smart Thermostats remain active even when guests are asleep or have left their pet in the room. Optimizing HVAC Cycles  Learning from each room’s thermal behavior – heating and cooling coefficients – the thermostats optimize HVAC cycles, resulting in reduced peak energy consumption, and maintenance of guest comfort with less energy usage. “I have been very pleased with the transition to Anacove Smart Thermostats, and we will continue to replace older, less efficient thermostat technology with Anacove thermostats,” added Saju. “They are easier to operate – for staff and guests – and install than others on the market – irrespective of their superior energy-saving performance – and are incredibly responsive.” Anacove’s staff and support Such was their ease of use that Legacy’s skilled maintenance staff installed the Anacove Smart Thermostats themselves, but Saju is keen to point out how engaging Anacove was throughout the process. “Their support has been excellent. Even though the thermostats are easy to install and operate, if there is ever a question that needs answering the Anacove team is there to back us up very quickly and in a very expert way,” he said. “I've been very comfortable with their price point – I actually think that their thermostat pricing is the most competitive I have found – and with their after sales service and the technology’s ease of use they are very customer-centric indeed.” Anacove’s AI-enabled water management systems  In addition to rolling out Anacove’s Smart Thermostats incrementally across his hotels, Saju is also deploying the company’s AI-powered, cloud-maintained Toilet Leak Detectors and Asset Tracking Systems. The AI-enabled water management systems go beyond basic leak detection. While sensors installed in water tanks or behind walls detect even the tiniest leaks, it’s the AI that identifies anomalies, pinpoints problem areas, and alerts maintenance teams before the issue escalates – saving water, money, repair costs, and mitigating guest inconvenience. Anacove’s Asset Management System  Anacove’s Asset Management System equips hotel assets such as luggage carts, rollaway beds, cribs, housekeeping trollies and other movable items with location tags, which, thanks to the cloud-maintained AI system, helps to track down missing items, triangulating their exact positions, streamlining retrieval, reducing loss, and improving overall resource management. “We all expect a lot from our hotel’s front desk,” said Saju. “They’ve got to check people in, the phone's ringing, someone wants a bandage and then suddenly someone will check in and say, ‘where's the luggage cart?’” “The fact that they're immediately able to log in to the Anacove cloud dashboard on their phone and see exactly where the cart is – usually in a guest’s room – is an incredible time-saving benefit, enabling them to locate the cart’s exact location so that they can repurpose the cart for another guest’s use. In the past they would have to ring around guests’ rooms to find it – a waste of time and valuable resources.” Anacove AI cloud brain The performance of all four Anacove technology services (thermostats, toilet leaks, staff and asset trackers) are monitored and analyzed by the company’s AI cloud system, effectively a brain hovering over key operational areas of the hotel that make intelligent decisions. This ‘Anacove AI cloud brain’ – the only system of its kind – looks at the whole hotel as a single living entity, autogenerating reports that allow hoteliers to clearly see the return on their investment. The AI-enabled, cloud-connected energy management solution uses one inclusive dashboard, with a data-rich, monthly ‘flash report’ that provides a summary of how much energy has been saved, what's going on in terms of potential toilet leakage, etc. Easy and energy efficient  Overall, Saju is delighted with not only Anacove’s innovative, unique, AI-powered, cloud-connected devices, which are exceeding Anacove’s own expectations, but also by the company’s service and support. “They advertised a saving of about $12.00 per-room per month for the Smart Thermostats, which was pretty significant, but we're beating those numbers,” he explained. “Overall, all their technology is easy to install and use. There are huge savings, and – importantly – our general managers are very happy!” “Anacove’s after-sales service has also been second to none, and they have been incredibly receptive in helping us adapt the systems to our own requirements. I am a huge fan of Anacove and the team there; they're good people and I'm so glad that we're able to work together.”

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS), a pioneering supplier of all-electric, all-climate Ductless and Ducted Mini-split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat-pump and air-conditioning systems, shared a customer success story on Weber State University, an energy-conscious school that uses all-climate heat pumps throughout its campus buildings. VRF solution from Mitsubishi Electric Weber is also using a ductless, water-source VRF solution from Mitsubishi Electric The Ogden, Utah-based university has installed a ductless, water-source Mitsubishi Electric Hybrid VRF™ heat pump system in the SkySuites, a building that houses the Weber State Athletics Department, coaching staff offices, press box, 26 suites, 150 club seats, and a study area for student-athletes. Weber is also using a ductless, water-source VRF solution from Mitsubishi Electric in the Noorda Engineering building. These solutions allow Weber State University to further its goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2040. Conventional HVAC systems “Replacing our conventional HVAC systems has improved the comfort of students, faculty, and other staff, and it has significantly reduced our energy costs,” said Justin Owen, Interim Director of Operations for Weber State University. “We’re now exclusively installing Mitsubishi Electric all-climate heat pump solutions across campus because of their performance, functionality, easy-to-use thermostats, and warranties.” Key advantage of VRF and Hybrid VRF technology Weber State also cites zoning as a key advantage of VRF and Hybrid VRF technology Weber State also cites zoning as a key advantage of VRF and Hybrid VRF technology. Zoning provides more personalized comfort and improves efficiency. Each space has its own thermostat, allowing occupants to heat or cool their space to their comfort level. The Hybrid VRF system also pairs well with a variety of indoor unit options, including ceiling cassettes and wall-mounted units, to match the school’s different needs. Key technology in modernizing buildings Weber State University’s buildings have historically been cooled with chilled water from a central water plant and heated with steam from a central steam plant, both of which are energy-inefficient compared to modern systems. Plans are underway to convert the entire campus to Mitsubishi Electric Hybrid VRF solutions, which use water instead of refrigerant indoors and are a key technology in modernizing buildings. Approximately half of the HVAC systems on campus are fully electric now. Climate heat pump technology Approximately half of the HVAC systems on campus are fully electric now “Weber State University’s use of next-generation, all-climate heat pump technology make it a prime example for other universities looking to take steps toward future-proofing their buildings,” said David Archer, Vice President of Commercial Business at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC. “Not only are Mitsubishi Electric VRF and Hybrid VRF systems energy-efficient, but they also allow university facility operators to customize and enhance comfort for faculty, staff, students, and visitors campuswide.” Water-source VRF solutions In addition to using all-climate heat pump technology to heat and cool its buildings, Weber State is also educating younger generations about these HVAC systems. Most parts of the Noorda Engineering building’s ductless, water-source VRF solutions are on display to students, with parts labeled and exposed. This setup empowers faculty to use the HVAC system as a teaching tool for students in its electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and energy engineering programs.

Wren is a climate subscription service that helps individuals offset their carbon footprint through monthly contributions. Users can calculate their carbon emissions using Wren’s intuitive calculator and fund various climate projects, including refrigerant destruction. Wren emphasizes transparency by providing regular updates on the impact of contributions, including data, photos, and stories. The platform aims to make climate action simple and effective, ensuring that every dollar contributes to meaningful environmental change.  About A-Gas  A‑Gas is a world pioneer in the supply and lifecycle management of refrigerants and associated products and services. Through the first-class recovery, reclamation, and repurposing processes, we capture refrigerants and fire protection gases for future re-use or safe destruction, preventing harmful release into the atmosphere. For over 30 years, A-Gas has supported clients and partners on their environmental journey by supplying lower global warming gases and actively increasing the circularity of the industries we serve, building a sustainable future.   Challenge  HCFC-22 is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) much higher than CO2 The widespread use of refrigerants like HCFC-22 (R22) presents a significant environmental challenge. HCFC-22 is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential (GWP) much higher than CO2 (one molecule of R22 has a global warming impact 1,810 times that of one molecule of CO2). If not properly managed, its release would have a negative impact on the atmosphere. As these refrigerants reach the end of their lifecycle, there is an urgent need for effective solutions to prevent their emissions and minimize their environmental impact.   Solution  To address this challenge, A-Gas recovers refrigerants for reclamation or destruction at A-Gas facilities across the country. By leveraging Wren's platform to mobilize individual contributions and A-Gas' technical expertise in lifecycle refrigerant management, this partnership enabled an environmentally conscious solution for the used refrigerant. It underscores the potential for innovative partnerships that can help to further reduce emissions in the refrigerant industry through its on-site refrigerant recovery service (Rapid Recovery®), refrigerant buyback programs, and wholesale supplier reclaim program (Refri-Claim™). HCFC-22 destruction project The ACR methodology has included HCFC-22 as eligible for destruction-generated offsets since 2017 Wren and A-Gas formed a partnership to provide Wren subscribers with the opportunity to fund an HCFC-22 destruction project through the generation of A-Gas carbon credits to ensure the gas does not escape into the atmosphere. While the ACR (formerly American Carbon Registry) methodology has included HCFC-22 as eligible for destruction-generated offsets since 2017, few have completed such projects because the price of HCFC-22 is so high; it is more profitable for organizations to reclaim this product.  ACR’s methodology As such, this is one of the first HCFC-22 destruction projects utilizing ACR’s methodology. Approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to provide carbon credits in its Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), ACR is highly regarded across the world.  Results  The partnership yielded multiple environmental benefits:   Emissions Avoided: The initiative successfully avoided the release of 16,000 tons of CO2-equivalent emissions by destroying HCFC-22. This substantial elimination of greenhouse gas emissions demonstrates the effectiveness of the program.   Subscriber Engagement: Wren provided its subscribers with detailed updates on the impact of their contributions. These updates included data on the quantities of HCFC-22 destroyed and the corresponding emissions reductions. This transparency helped build trust and encouraged ongoing participation in climate action.   Educational Impact: The collaboration raised awareness about the importance of proper lifecycle refrigerant management. Wren and A-Gas educated the public on lesser-known aspects of climate change mitigation by highlighting the environmental benefits of destroying high-GWP substances.   Conclusion  This partnership enabled an environmentally conscious solution for the used refrigerant By leveraging Wren's platform to mobilize individual contributions and A-Gas' technical expertise in lifecycle refrigerant management, this partnership enabled an environmentally conscious solution for the used refrigerant. It underscores the potential for innovative partnerships that can help to further reduce emissions in the refrigerant industry.  refrigerant destruction protocols and technology "We are excited to work with A-Gas to push forward the standard of refrigerant destruction protocols and technology," said Landon Brand, CEO, of Wren. Landon Brand adds, "This is one of the most reliable and impactful project types we have found in our years of funding climate solutions, and we hope our community can keep blazing a trail to eliminate these dangerous refrigerants."

Artificial intelligence (AI) acts as a powerful new tool to automate tasks, analyze massive datasets, and enhance decision-making. The impact is widespread for almost any industry you can name, leading to increased efficiency, innovation, and personalization across various sectors. To focus the discussion on HVAC, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How can artificial intelligence (AI) be used to increase HVAC profits?

Building design and HVAC are interdependent aspects of creating a comfortable, healthy, energy-efficient, and functional indoor environment. How important is collaboration as architects and HVAC engineers seek to ensure that a building's form and function are harmonized with an efficient and effective HVAC system? We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does building design impact HVAC systems – and vice versa?

The HVAC market is a rapidly changing environment on a variety of fronts, from the introduction of new refrigerants to the increasing use of artificial intelligence to the embrace of interconnected systems in the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How will the HVAC market change in the next five years?