The NEWS reports on new products found by our editors at the recent AHR Expo in Chicago. Products are listed in alphabetical order within each category.

The features and benefits of high-tech HVAC equipment can often be lost on the end users — homeowners and building owners. What may seem to HVAC contractors like the greatest invention since sliced bread can result in blank stares from customers. But there is a way to make tech trends understandable to customers.

Uses of so-called natural refrigerants such as HCs, CO2, and ammonia are being advocated as ways to positively deal with issues of climate change, greenhouse effect, and global warming. That was the primary perspective of an extended report from Eurammon, a joint European initiative of companies, institutions, and individuals who advocate an increased use of natural refrigerants.

Source: Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Industry figures are estimates that are derived from the best available figures supplied by a sample of AHRI member companies.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) is moving forward with an ambitious project to identify low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. What does that mean?

Source: Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Industry figures are estimates that are derived from the best available figures supplied by a sample of AHRI member companies.

The year 2011 introduced the concept of dry-shipping HCFC-22 condensing units for retrofit applications, and that shipping and use is expected to continue through 2012.

Tappan packaged air conditioner Model P7RD utilizes R-410A refrigerant and all-aluminum microchannel condenser coil technology. According to the manufacturer, advantages of microchannel coils include lighter weight, smaller size, better durability, and greater reliability in corrosive environments.

Providing smart, precise comfort management, the AccuLink™ Platinum ZV Control is designed to accentuate homeowners’ lives with smart features that meet their indoor comfort needs, including a high-definition touchscreen, intuitive user interface, and powerful zoning options.