HVAC Top Stories - Articles - Page 24

Robotics Startup Debuts AI-Enabled Heating System for Outdoor Dining

Robotic HVAC is officially here

Matt Jachman

March 20, 2026

Focal’s autonomous heating system continuously detects where guests are seated and warms only those areas.

AI and HVAC: Techs are Safe, but Office Roles Face High Risk

A new analysis shows how 342 occupations are vulnerable to AI disruption

Chris Gray

March 20, 2026

HVAC installation and repair work remain largely safe from AI, but the technology could reshape office roles inside HVAC businesses.

Customers Turning to HVAC Companies as Heating Costs Rise 11%

Contractors can offer solutions to provide savings as energy costs increase

Chris Gray

March 20, 2026

With winter heating costs up about 11% and conflict in the Middle East raising heating oil prices, HVAC contractors can provide solutions to customers seeking ways to lower energy bills.

AHR VEGAS 2026 Post Show

Refrigerants and Commercial Refrigeration Systems on Display

New offerings reflect ongoing changes in regulations and system design

Joanna R. Turpin

March 20, 2026

New refrigerants and commercial refrigeration equipment showed how lower-GWP options, reclaimed programs, and redesigned systems are adapting to regulatory and performance demands.

AHR VEGAS 2026 Post Show

Smarter IAQ and Ventilation Solutions Debut at AHR Expo

New products emphasize connected humidity control, improved ventilation performance, and contractor-friendly installation

Maria Taylor

March 19, 2026

From whole-home dehumidifiers to high-efficiency ERVs, new IAQ products aim to improve comfort while helping contractors meet evolving ventilation codes.

AHRI Shipment Data Show A/C, Heat Pumps Down by 29% in January

Heat pumps still outpaced warm-air furnaces

Chris Gray

March 19, 2026

The latest shipment report from AHRI shows a sluggish start to 2026, with everything from electrification pushes to refrigerant transitions set to affect the coming year.

1931: Advances in Home Heating and Cooling

The short-lived Hot-Kold was an early version of today’s residential HVAC systems

Matt Jachman

March 19, 2026

The Hot-Kold was the result of a partnership between the refrigeration company Frigidaire and General Iron Works, which made furnaces. Unaffordable for most people during the Great Depression, it didn’t last long.

Guest Column

Before You Chase AI Leads, Fix Your Google Business Profile

Chasing AI leads could cost your HVAC business real customers

Chris Lollini

March 18, 2026

Despite the hype around AI search, Google Business Profiles still drive 67% of total contractor revenue

Department of Energy to Take Over Energy Star from EPA

Transfer could cause short-term delays and funding questions

Chris Gray

March 18, 2026

DOE is taking over the ENERGY STAR program, a move that could change how efficiency tiers align with federal standards and how quickly HVAC equipment certifications are updated.

AHR VEGAS 2026 Post Show

Digging Into Geothermal Innovation at AHR Expo

Exhibitors highlighted advances in efficiency, installation, and system design

Joanna R. Turpin

March 18, 2026

Manufacturers highlighted new geothermal systems designed to improve efficiency and simplify installation, while offering better comfort to occupants.