HVAC Contracting

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Many contractors overlook EPA 608 compliance, but expanded AIM Act rules and rising enforcement mean even good contractors face steep penalties if they can’t document proper refrigerant handling.

Not every technician learns the same way, so why are they still being trained as if they do? By combining all types of learning styles, meeting techs where they are at, and gamifying activities, technicians retain more, apply more in the field, and feel more confident in their skills. 

Celebrating 100 years, The ACHR NEWS looks back to its 1926 debut issue, which introduced electric refrigeration as an emerging technology that some viewed with suspicion 

As industry debates the Technology Transitions rule, EPA’s ER&R rule is already in effect, imposing new leak repair, reclamation, reporting, and automatic leak detection requirements under the AIM Act.

During the 2026 AHR Expo, NAVAC pushed HVAC tool innovation forward with 18 new product launches, including digital manifold gauges that adopt smartphone-style touchscreen technology to make diagnostics faster and intuitive. 

At the 2026 AHR Expo, executives highlighted CPVC and prefabricated PEX solutions, double-digit growth in key segments, and plans to drive innovation in emerging markets such as data centers and life sciences. 

New seasonal efficiency metrics aim to replace single-point testing with ratings that actually reflect how systems run in homes.

Bosch sees a challenging start to 2026 for HVAC, but the back half of the year — and 2027 — could bring renewed growth as replacement cycles return.

Tankless systems eliminate storage tanks, but demand proper sequencing, balanced piping, and regular flushing to perform as intended.