Johnson Controls (Manufacturer)

Detect and Protect: Everything Techs Need to Know About RDSs

Manufacturers offer resources and guidance on refrigerant detection systems

December 16, 2024

Starting in 2025, most new comfort cooling systems will use lower-GWP, mildly flammable refrigerants, which include a safety feature called the refrigerant detection system (RDS), which detects leaks and can be factory or field installed.

Boosting the Value of Multi-Family Units With Smart HVAC Upgrades

Simple investments now can yield landlords big profits later

Dylan Kurt

November 28, 2024

If the goal is to increase what renters are willing to pay, start with high-tech HVAC.

New York’s Got IRA Funds. What’s That Mean for Heat Pumps?

Manufacturers give an updated look at the rollout in the Empire State

Dylan Kurt

October 22, 2024

The IRA is driving heat pump sales in New York, and there are a few things lessons contractors in other states can learn from the success.

New Energy-Efficient HVAC Installations Modernize Low-Income Housing

Heating and cooling systems at West Plains Housing Authority to be replaced with Johnson Controls heat pumps

Hannah Belloli-Oster

September 13, 2024

Initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions by 32%, save $200,000 annually.

FROSTlines

Refrigerant Detection Systems Sniff Out A2L Leaks

Carrier, Daikin, and Trane discuss how these safety features will work on their equipment

Joanna R. Turpin

September 6, 2024

RDSs are generally required in A2L systems that contain more than 4 pounds of refrigerant and can either be field or factory-installed, depending on the manufacturer.

Advances in Heat Pump Rooftop Units for Cold Climates

Their residential CCHPs were a success, so OEMs are tackling their commercial counterparts

Joanna R. Turpin

August 21, 2024

The DOE's new Rooftop Accelerator program encourages manufacturers to develop efficient commercial rooftop heat pumps for cold climates, which could reduce GHG emissions and energy costs by up to 50%.

Commercial Buildings Trending Toward More Sustainable Future

New HVAC practices, technology helping to make even the biggest of buildings more energy-efficient

Dylan Kurt

July 1, 2024

Through the use of sustainable building practices and the implementation of the latest technology, the HVAC industry is helping to create more sustainable commercial buildings.

FROSTlines

OEM Unveils Refrigerant Detection Systems

Johnson Controls’ RDS was displayed at recent HVAC Excellence Education Conference

Joanna R. Turpin

May 28, 2024

A refrigerant detection system (RDS) will be required for all A2L systems in occupied spaces exceeding a specific refrigerant charge limit.

High-End HVAC Systems Offer High Value

With enhanced features and future-ready capabilities, high-end systems are a worthwhile investment

Dylan Kurt

May 6, 2024

Customers looking for increased value out of their HVAC systems will find high-end features like connectivity, greater efficiency, and more intuitive controls attractive.

Changes in Chiller Use

Versatile chillers offer efficiencies, but their uses bring new challenges as well

Matt Jachman

April 10, 2024

Chillers are being used as heat pumps, outfitted with heat-recovery systems, used in building electrification projects, and installed in arrays to cool data centers.

Heat Pump RTUs Taking Center Stage in Expanding Market

New standards are driving innovation, surpassing old technology

Dylan Kurt

April 3, 2024

As heat pump technology advances and begins its march into colder climates, industry experts are expecting rooftop units to continue to gain popularity in both new construction and retrofits.

FROSTlines

New York’s Proposed HFC Rules Face Heat from Critics

Some say the draft regulation could leave the state without air conditioning or refrigeration

Joanna R. Turpin

April 1, 2024

Supporters believe New York's proposed HFC rules combat climate change, but critics worry they are too aggressive and could leave residents without access to HVACR systems.

ACCA Panel: Brace For Change

HVAC industry to face more challenges ahead, but some see silver lining

Dylan Kurt

March 23, 2024

Industry experts are telling contractors to stay informed and get involved with the new regulations that are likely to impact everyone this coming year

What HVAC Needs to Know about the Decarbonization Movement

New products and consumer education will be at the core of this transition, according to industry leaders

Dylan Kurt

February 16, 2024

The decarbonization movement is seen by some as the greatest disruption to the HVAC industry in the last century and, as these pivotal changes continue to be implemented and technology continues to advance, everyone should be prepared to adapt.

Commercial Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Here are products to clean the air in schools, stores, theaters, and more

Matt Jachman

February 15, 2024

Cleaner indoor air means healthier building occupants who perform better and are more productive. Here are five products that improve IAQ in the places where people work, shop, and play.

In Line for Federal Money for Heat Pumps, OEMs are Ready to get to Work

‘It’s a Proud Moment’

Matt Jachman

January 30, 2024

As the federal government plans millions in grant funding to boost heat-pump manufacturing in the U.S., a big player in the market as well as a newcomer are thrilled with the opportunity.

Distributors Will Find Plenty to See, and Do, at the 2024 AHR Expo in the Windy City

On to Chicago

Matt Jachman

January 11, 2024

For distributors, the Expo is a place to meet peers in different facets of the industry, as well as contractor customers, and have a peek at new products and technology.

2023 NEWSmakers: Chris Forth Takes On HVAC Regulations

The Johnson Controls VP relishes his job of shaping the policies that affect the industry

Joanna R. Turpin

December 20, 2023

Chris Forth, VP at Johnson Controls, navigates the complex challenges in the HVAC industry, which include addressing regulatory, code, and environmental concerns.

Bosch IDS Premium Connected Heat Pump System

Cashing In on High-End HVAC Equipment

Homeowners looking for more from their systems can find it with these products

Matt Jachman

November 13, 2023

These seven products from major manufacturers offer extras in terms of efficiency, comfort, and ease of installation and servicing.

How Low-Temperature Absorption Chillers Can Optimize Food and Beverage Processing

Have you ever considered the carbon footprint of a cookie or maybe your mid-afternoon latte?

Dmitrij Gorlovsky

October 13, 2023

By splitting the absorption process into two steps, lithium bromide solution concentrations are lower in the system, enabling lower hot water temperatures within the generator, lower hot water flow rates, and the elimination of crystallization risk within the chiller.

HVAC Solutions Help Data Centers Achieve Sustainability

The right equipment can reduce energy consumption, as well as the carbon footprint

Joanna R. Turpin

June 19, 2023

The rapid expansion of data centers has raised concerns about their massive energy use and carbon footprint. However, adopting sustainable HVAC solutions can reduce a data center’s environmental impact and energy consumption.

Canadian Smoke Crisis Prompts Urgent IAQ Response

Research shows that PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is particularly damaging and can cause a range of issues, including both pulmonary and cardiovascular concerns.

Herb Woerpel

June 15, 2023

HVAC contractors find their services in high demand as the northern U.S. seeks refuge from polluted air.

The Top 5 IoT Applications in the HVAC Industry

The IoT offers numerous benefits to the built environment and the HVAC equipment installers tasked with keeping its occupants comfortable

Herb Woerpel

June 13, 2023

The ACHR NEWS compiled a list of the top 5 benefits IoT technologies can offer contractors based on information provided from a handful of HVACR controls manufacturers.

HVACR OEMs Report Strong Q4 Results

Every surveyed manufacturer noted they’re well-positioned for the coming months

Matt Jachman

April 4, 2023

Six of seven major HVACR manufacturers reported year-over-year revenue increases for the fourth quarter of 2022.

Meet The Wholesaler: Gina Ladefian

Former Honeywell sales rep steers 103-year-old distributor specializing in HVAC controls

Matt Jachman

March 24, 2023

Gina Ladefian used to call on Pittsburgh’s T.F. Campbell Co. as a manufacturer’s representative for Honeywell. Now, Ladefian owns the 103-year-old HVAC distributor.

Proper Charge Is Critical for Microchannel Coils

Incorrect amount of refrigerant could reduce performance, efficiency, and reliability

Joanna R. Turpin

March 20, 2023

Microchannel coils are lightweight, offer better heat transfer, and use less refrigerant than traditional fin-and-tube coils; however, care must be taken when charging, as even a few ounces could reduce a systems’ performance, efficiency, and reliability.

Heat Pumps Dominate Residential Cooling Scene at AHR

Focus shifts from a/cs to heat pumps; new products align with IRA tax credits

Maria Taylor

February 28, 2023

In the realm of residential cooling, two trends popped out at the 2023 AHR Expo: the new federal tax credits and heat pumps.

Residential Heating Scene Shows Mix of Cold Climate Heat Pumps, Furnaces

Manufacturers see dual fuel as a way to bridge the electrification transition

Maria Taylor

February 27, 2023

Cold climate heat pumps were on full display on the AHR show floor and manufacturers were eager to share their progress reports in the Department of Energy’s CCHP Challenge.

Stranded Surplus a ‘Plus’ for HVAC?

New DOE efficiency rules for a/c units could be a boon for HVAC surplus dealers

Matt Jachman

February 14, 2023

Companies that deal in surplus HVAC equipment are seeing business opportunities in the new U.S. DOE energy efficiency minimums for single-phase residential air-conditioners.

Single-Use Plastics Bans are Coming for HVAC

Packaging is the target of this growing green initiative, may lead to price hikes

Maria Taylor

February 11, 2023

As a user of plastics in packaging materials, HVAC is getting caught up in regulations regarding single-use plastics.

New Year, New HVAC Efficiency Standards

2023 brings revised efficiency minimums, ratings system for some HVAC equipment

Matt Jachman

January 21, 2023

The new year brings new minimum energy-efficiency standards for single-phase residential air conditioners and heat pumps, as well as new methods of measuring efficiencies and new terms to describe those measurements.

The 2023 Refrigerant Transition: What You Need to Know

HVAC industry experts discuss what contractors can expect

January 6, 2023

The 2023 refrigerant transition has many HVAC contractors asking questions. The ACHR NEWS connected with four industry leaders to walk us through what this means for the contractor.

Five Hot Topics in AHR Expo’s 2023 Industry Trend Report

Recurring topics were decarbonization, IAQ, supply chain, refrigerant regulations, and workforce development/labor shortage

Hannah Belloli-Oster

December 31, 2022

Top 2023 trends in the HVACR industry were decarbonization, IAQ, the supply chain, workforce development, and refrigerant regulations.

Top Four Easiest Points of Entry for Homeowners to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Catherine McMurray

December 13, 2022

The coronavirus increased many people’s awareness of IAQ. While IAQ had been a focus of the EPA and a commercial building standard for years, it only recently became a significant household concern.

Commercial HVAC Retrofits Can Electrify the Bottom Line

Contractors will be key in helping building owners move from gas to electric heating equipment

Joanna R. Turpin

November 9, 2022

Electrification presents a prime opportunity for contractors to deepen their relationships with customers who are looking for gas-fired heating alternatives. But they must first understand how different factors could influence the type of new system needed for an application.

Top HVAC Trends Shaping the Future of the Industry

David Budzinski

October 31, 2022

Johnson Controls explores the issues shaping the HVAC industry and shares best practices contractors and buildings managers can take now to meet these evolving industry standards.

New Efficiency Standard Highlights Need for Matched Systems

Installing new HVAC equipment with older, non-compliant units can result in multiple problems

Joanna R. Turpin

October 23, 2022

System matching may be a little more confusing once the DOE energy efficiency standards take effect in 2023, so contractors should be aware of which components can be paired together.

Will Humidification Stay ‘Hot’?

Improving indoor air quality through proper humidity control

Layan Dahhan

September 27, 2022

Whether it be a single-family household, school, or even a grocery store, all of those spaces need clean, high-quality air — which humidification plays a role in.

Indoor Air Quality and Decarbonization: A Healthy Balance

Trades, technologies must work in tandem to make these seemingly conflicting goals align

Hannah Belloli-Oster

September 26, 2022

Indoor air quality and decarbonization may seem to oppose each other, but with industry advances and the help of HVAC contractors, industry IAQ and decarbonization goals can be met.

Keys to Success in HVACR Automation

Techs need updated skills, collaboration, clear expectations

Matt Jachman

September 26, 2022

The market for automated systems in commercial buildings is growing rapidly, driven by increasing energy-efficiency goals, improving technology, and updated standards set by governments and professional associations.

Economic Headwinds Going Into Second Half of 2022

Supply chain issues, high gas prices, rising interest rates, and inflation are weighing on HVAC industry

Joanna R. Turpin

August 18, 2022

The year started out strong for the HVAC industry, but there are economic headwinds going into the second half of 2022.

August 8, 2022 NEWSRoom: Efficiency Delays, Airborne Act, Bed Bath & Beyond, JCI Roadshow

Layan Dahhan

August 8, 2022

Catch up on the latest headlines in this episode of the ACHR Newsroom.

Johnson Controls Showcases Rooftop Systems at “Game On” Roadshow

Completes tour with final stop in Michigan

Layan Dahhan

July 21, 2022

The ACHR NEWS caught up with Johnson Controls’ “Game On” Roadshow at its final stop in Rochester Hills, Michigan.

OEMs Press EPA on Rulemaking Details for AIM Act

Manufacturers cite need for date-of-manufacture provision and updated building codes

Joanna R. Turpin

July 17, 2022

At EPA’s recent workshop on the AIM Act, manufacturers expressed concerns about lagging building codes and urged the Agency to include a date-of-manufacture provision.

Rooftop Unit Manufacturers Work Toward 2023 DOE Efficiency Standards

Companies consider other industry trends during production, offer different tiers of products

Layan Dahhan

June 6, 2022

For many manufacturers, higher efficiency systems have been in the works for a while, but the 2023 DOE standards, pandemic, and current supply chain issues have added pressure.

Dehumidification a Big Part of Indoor Air Quality Equation

Manufacturers see increased interest in moisture control in the home

Matt Jachman

March 15, 2022

Homeowners are increasingly paying attention to improving their indoor air quality, and dehumidification is a big part of the IAQ equation.

Fourth Quarter Revenue; JCI’s OpenBlue; Coronavirus in HVAC Systems; HARDI Partners with SPARXiQ

Layan Dahhan

March 7, 2022

Catch up on the latest headlines in this episode of the ACHR Newsroom.

Johnson Controls HMH7 Horizontal Heat Pump.

Johnson Controls Makes Products Greener for Customers, Easier for Contractors

New offerings aid decarbonization

Ted Craig

February 28, 2022

The world is headed into a greener future and Johnson Controls wants to act as a leader in getting there. That will take smarter, more efficient HVAC equipment.

Johnson Controls executives present details about the company’s new OpenBlue IAQ solution.

OpenBlue Provides Digital Solution for Indoor Air Quality Concerns

Johnson Controls rolls out new suites to meet increased demand

Ted Craig

February 22, 2022

Johnson Controls announced the launch of OpenBlue Indoor Air Quality as a Service, an “as-a-service" IAQ solution for buildings, delivering energy-efficient, turnkey clean air outcomes with an innovative financing model.

Manufacturers Report Record Revenues, but Supply Chain Hits Profits

Commercial market remains weak for most

Ted Craig

February 22, 2022

A combination of continued consumer spending and increased interest in IAQ drove sales throughout the year. Higher costs driven by supply chain issues ate into the profits for most companies, however.

Original Equipment Manufacturers Developing Heat Pumps for Cold Climates

As part of DOE program, next-generation HPs will be available by 2024

Joanna R. Turpin

January 5, 2022

To enforce the transition away from using fossil fuels for space heating purposes, many cities across the U.S. have proposed or enacted regulations that would ban the use of fossil fuels in new homes and buildings.

Connected Homes Present an Opportunity for HVAC Contractors

Already being in the home creates an advantage

Ted Craig

December 20, 2021

Connected homes continue to grow in popularity, creating an opportunity for HVAC contractors to create an even stronger bond with homeowners.

How to Diagnose and Solve a Home’s Ventilation Issues

Proper ventilation will lower energy bills while improving indoor air quality

Gordon White

December 7, 2021

Many homeowners may underestimate the importance of proper ventilation, which a lack of could cause discomfort and higher energy bills.

Manufacturers Help Contractors Keep up with Heat Pump Technology as Market Grows

Units become a more popular option in cold weather states

Ted Craig

November 8, 2021

Manufacturers and contractors are working to educate end users about the ways heat pumps work differently from traditional heat sources.

Chiller Manufacturers Respond to Needs of In-Demand Markets

Data centers, schools need chiller upgrades due to pandemic shifts

Ted Craig

October 19, 2021

Several segments of the commercial HVAC market are showing strength. Chillers play an integral part in the HVAC systems for these markets.

High-End HVAC: Contractors Should Look Beyond Efficiencies

The less familiar benefits of owning — and offering — top-tier HVAC systems can pay off

Robert Beverly

October 18, 2021

As it stands, simply staying informed and competitive on available ways to pay can turn a certain number of jobs into additional “high-end HVAC” projects.

Rooftop Retrofits Can Bring Indoor Air Quality, Occupant Comfort, Energy Savings

Energy-saving upgrades help save money and improve occupant comfort

Joanna R. Turpin

September 20, 2021

Packaged rooftop units are the workhorses of the commercial market, providing cooling to approximately 60% of U.S. commercial building floor area.

Students from Elyria Catholic High School visited Ridgid’s headquarters.

HVAC Manufacturers Work to Prepare the Industry’s Future Workforce

Companies reach out to local high school students and offer training programs

Gordon White

August 7, 2021

Manufacturers in the HVAC industry have an incentive to get more people into the skilled trades, and they have been exerting effort to develop the future workforce.

Are Geothermal Heat Pumps the Key to a Cleaner Planet?

Geothermal heat pumps offer clean, renewable, and efficient energy

Matt Tomasetti Dan Tyson

August 1, 2021

Geothermal energy can be used to heat and cool commercial buildings. The highly efficient systems that make this possible are geothermal heat pumps.

Panel Sees Better Times Ahead for Commercial HVAC Contractors

Executives advise keeping track of where project money is headed

Ted Craig

June 22, 2021

What does the near-term future look like for commercial HVAC contractors? ACCA hosted an online event with three manufacturers to discuss that topic.

President Visits HVAC Program, Invites Johnson Controls CEO to Climate Summit

HVAC front and center as Biden administration makes the case for its agenda

Ted Craig

May 26, 2021

President Joe Biden is suddenly showing a lot of interest in HVAC. Biden visited an HVAC laboratory at Tidewater Community College in Virginia in early May.

HVAC Manufacturers Report Stellar Earnings In First Quarter

Most expect strong sales to continue throughout 2021

Joanna R. Turpin

May 25, 2021

A sales surge has boosted earnings for OEMs in the first quarter of 2021 and led most to raise their outlooks for the year.

Chiller Refrigerant Choices Are Evolving with New Regulations

New federal and state regulations focus on reducing use of high-GWP refrigerants

Joanna R. Turpin

May 18, 2021

Chiller OEMs have been preparing for a refrigerant phasedown, and they are identifying alternative refrigerants that are efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

The Benefits of High-End HVAC, and How to Service and Sell It

High-end systems offer numerous opportunities for contractors but require customer education

Gordon White

May 4, 2021

Contractors can benefit from knowing the advantages of high-end comfort technology, how to service it, and how to sell it.

Carrier’s AquaForce 30XV air-cooled chiller.

Chiller Manufacturers Offer New Technology to Control Energy Costs

Demand for equipment comes from health care, data centers

Ted Craig

April 19, 2021

Chillers are a key component of commercial HVAC systems. Of course, like all parts of the commercial HVAC business, this past year proved challenging.

Manufacturers Look Forward to Strong Sales

Most believe that consumers will continue buying new equipment, as well as IAQ products

Joanna R. Turpin

March 24, 2021

Most HVAC manufacturers believe that 2021 is shaping up to be a good year in sales.

Meet The Wholesaler: CJ Hooper

Family, faith, and a respect for competition drive this Texas distributor from day to day

Robert Beverly

March 11, 2021

CJ Hooper talks about how family, faith, and respect for competition help him lead the company.

Maximizing Indoor Air Quality Without Sacrificing Energy Efficiency

The proper use of HVAC technology can improve the end user’s health

Kevin Stockton

March 2, 2021

The proper application of modern HVAC technologies can help maximize indoor air quality while minimizing losses in operational efficiency.

Johnson Controls’ headquarters in Glendale, Wisconsin.

Survey Reveals Interest in Energy Efficiency Is a Critical HVAC Trend

Annual EEI survey finds 3 in 4 facility managers planning to invest in IAQ

Gordon White

January 20, 2021

Has a long, unpredicted year taken a toll on people’s interest in energy efficiency, renewables, and smart buildings?

Manufacturers Optimistic Over Heat Pump Outlook for the Upcoming Year

Most predict ducted heat pumps will sell well across the country

Joanna R. Turpin

January 12, 2021

Despite economic turmoil caused by the pandemic, OEMs expect demand for HVAC equipment to continue in 2021 — particularly for heat pumps.

METUS CITY MULTI R2-Series outdoor unit.

Commercial VRF Growth Slows but Doesn’t Stop

Amid an office space rethink and ongoing electrification, this technology is better poised than most to roll with the changes

Robert Beverly

November 18, 2020

Tough news is unsurprising this year when it comes to construction, but comments from VRF-related professionals point to some streaks of silver lining.

Rooftop Units Incorporate Tech for Safety, Efficiency, Remote Monitoring

Products can send service alerts, regulate indoor air quality, and more

Gordon White

November 17, 2020

Commercial rooftop units feature a host of intelligent solutions to improve efficiency and ease of service/installation.

Smart Thermostats Set for Rapid Expansion

Technology trends, time spent in home driving shift

Ted Craig

November 2, 2020

In the past few years, the thermostat has become a cutting edge electronic. This creates new opportunities for HVAC contractors.

RGF Environmental Group Inc. employees work on IAQ products.

Winter Is Coming, Raising Concerns About Indoor Virus Spread

As workers return to offices, worries persist about commercial building IAQ and COVID-19

Joanna R. Turpin

October 9, 2020

As lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic are winding down in many areas, some workers are returning to their office buildings for the first time in months.