Articles Tagged with ''AHR Expo 2016''

More than half of U.S. commercial building space is cooled by packaged HVAC equipment, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Additionally, existing rooftop units consume more than 1.3 percent of the country’s annual energy usage. It’s no surprise the biggest trend driving the rooftop market is efficiency.

Technology has come a long way in the HVAC industry, and not just in terms of the heating and cooling equipment. A number of software and data solutions designed to simplify HVAC contracting procedures were on display at the AHR Expo.

Perhaps the biggest work-vehicle trend at this year’s Expo was the somewhat sudden and notable presence of European-style vans. More maneuverable and economical than previous van styles, these vehicles are built with tradesmen in mind.

For HVAC refrigerants, the changes keep coming fast and furious at a time when the global demand continues to grow apace. Changes implemented via the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, combined with the continued phase out of R-22, will lead contractors to seek out opportunities to gain experience with the use of new low-GWP refrigerants.

More than 50 free sessions will be offered, covering topics ranging from how to commission an economizer to cyber security measures for intelligent buildings to the latest advancements in China’s IAQ market. Attendees may participate in all AHR Expo-sponsored sessions, ASHRAE’s Design Build Track, and sessions hosted by endorsing associations and industry groups at no additional cost.

The annual awards competition honors the most inventive and original products, systems, and technologies showcased at each year’s AHR Expo in 10 categories. The winning products are selected from numerous entries by a panel of judges consisting of ASHRAE members who evaluated the products based on innovation, application, value to the user, and market impact.

The AHR Expo, which began more than 85 years ago, is held annually in key markets and major cities across the U.S., hosting close to 2,000 exhibitors and crowds of more than 60,000 industry professionals. The event provides a unique forum for the HVACR community to come together and share new products, technologies, and ideas.