July 14 2025 Issue

This issue of The ACHR NEWS dives into what’s going on with the EPA’s Technology Transitions Rule, looks at the new era of residential dehumidification, opines on if it’s time to privatize Energy Star, the next generation of HVAC for cannabis cultivation, VR to train and retain techs, tech’s quick guide to non-invasive system checks, the Big, Beautiful Bill’s passage, venturing into e-commerce, lessons from a geo heat pump startup, comparing refrigeration systems for cold storage, recovering a Google Business profile, a look at new products, and the latest from SNIPS NEWS.

Check back throughout the week for additional content.

FROSTlines

What’s Going On With EPA’s Technology Transitions Rule?

Several industry groups are urging the agency to reconsider the regulation

Joanna R. Turpin

July 15, 2025

EPA is reconsidering the Technology Transitions rule, but it is unclear how it would affect the HVACR industry.

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The New Era of Dehumidification: Smarter Systems, Better Comfort

IAQ, efficiency, and connectivity push dehumidifiers into the spotlight

Hannah Belloli-Oster

July 9, 2025

As demand for healthier, more efficient homes grows, residential dehumidification has become central to indoor comfort. Here’s how smarter systems, better sizing, and informed contractors are redefining humidity control.

Is it Time to Consider Privatizing Energy Star?

As federal support disappears, the private sector could potentially save the popular program

Joanna R. Turpin

June 30, 2025

The Trump administration has its sights set on eliminating the popular Energy Star program — but could the private sector step in to keep it alive?

Innovative HVAC Solutions for Cannabis Cultivation

Specialized systems are designed to meet the unique demands of grow facilities

Joanna R. Turpin

July 8, 2025

HVAC technology for cannabis cultivation is delivering precise climate control crucial for healthy plants and maximizing crop yields.

New Tech for New Techs: Using VR to Train and Retain Technicians

Virtual reality-based training helps cut costs, reduce recalls, and keep talent in-house

Hannah Belloli-Oster

June 11, 2025

A mid-sized HVAC company in Virginia used VR to turn training into a competitive edge — and their approach might be the future of skilled trades education.

BREAKING NEWS

Big, Beautiful Bill Has Positives and Negatives for HVAC Industry

Kyle Gargaro

July 3, 2025

After much speculation, the "Big, Beautiful Bill" has been passed, and there are several points that will directly impact the HVAC industry.

Venturing Into E-Commerce: What HVAC Contractors Should Think About

Contractors have to understand consumers, and thoughtfully consider what to sell

Hannah Belloli-Oster

October 28, 2024

Selling products online is a whole new ball game. So, contractors will want to learn about their consumers buying journeys, and thoughtfully consider how to launch the online store, what products to sell, and how to market it.

FROSTlines

Comparing Refrigeration Systems for a Cold Storage Facility

There are pros and cons for ammonia and transcritical CO₂ systems

Joanna R. Turpin

July 14, 2025

Choosing the right refrigeration system isn’t one-size-fits-all — it requires a careful look at performance, cost, and the unique demands of each project.

How to Ace VRF Installation and Service

The efficiency of VRF systems comes with a price: Precise installation is a must, and maintenance can be costly

Austin Keating

July 16, 2025

Inside the real-world headaches, maintenance procedures, and wins of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)/ technology.

The Sports Complex Boom and the Unsung Tech That Makes it Work

Duct wrap and reflective insulation help keep temperature-controlled sport complexes cost-effective

Austin Keating

July 9, 2025

As small towns and exurbs invest millions in new sports facilities, the real MVPs might be behind the scenes – where advances in HVAC insulation technology help keep crowds comfortable and city budgets in the black.

Industrial Sheet Metal Fabricators Build Success with Innovation on the Shop Floor

Through loyal employees and high-end resources, two metal fabricators are preparing for continuous success

Chris Lewis

June 26, 2025

Industrial sheet metal fabrication solutions are evolving rapidly, driven by innovative technologies and dedicated teams. At the forefront are companies like Badger Sheet Metal Works and Vidimos, Inc., who are setting new standards for industrial ductwork, custom ventilation systems, and high-quality metal fabrication.

Tips to Prepare You for a Construction Meeting

Simple steps for smoother, more productive construction meetings

Howard McKew, P.E., C.P.E.

June 12, 2025

Efficient meetings aren’t just about saving time — they’re about driving results. Discover proven strategies to streamline construction phase meetings, boost accountability, and keep your project on track.

A Guide to Sheet Metal Clinching for HVAC Contractors

Sheet metal fabricators deploy a variety of joining processes. Here, we take a deep dive into the clinching method – how it works, when to use it, and more.

Byron Selorme

June 2, 2025

If you’re considering alternatives to spot welding or traditional fastening in your HVAC fabrication line, clinching is worth a close look.

Trump Administration Keeps Biden-Era Project Labor Agreement Mandate, Sparking Backlash and Praise

Trump administration defies predictions by upholding Biden-era labor agreement rule

Austin Keating

June 17, 2025

The OMB memorandum clarifies that federal agencies must use PLAs on major construction projects unless they can demonstrate — through market research — that such agreements would significantly reduce competition or drive up costs beyond government budgets.

A Technician’s Quick Guide to Non-Invasive System Checks

How to troubleshoot without gauges

Lianna Schwalenberg

July 7, 2025

No ports? No problem. Here are three proven ways to check refrigerant charge without gauges.

Duct Dynasty

Legacy Lessons From a 1994 Geothermal Heat Pump Startup

David Richardson

July 10, 2025

In 1994, a young technician faced his fears when tasked with a daunting geothermal startup. A call for help and some compassionate guidance turned doubt into success.

Google Suspended Your HVAC (GBP) Business Profile — Now What?

Chris Lollini

June 15, 2025

In the HVAC world, your Google Business Profile is your online storefront. If it’s gone, this is your recovery roadmap.

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity build project

Rheem Assists Habitat for Humanity Building Project

July 1, 2025

Rheem donated and installed a new water heater and HVAC unit while dozens of its metropolitan Atlanta-based employees volunteered in the building and landscaping process.

Longtime Educator Tom Tebbe Announces Retirement

The ACHR NEWS Editorial Staff

June 26, 2025

Thomas Tebbe has worn many hats, demonstrating unwavering dedication to advancing HVACR education and technician training, a press release from HVAC Excellence said. Tebbe was the national programs director at HVAC Excellence from 2002 to 2016.

FYI: News Briefs in HVAC - July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

For your information news briefs from a wide variety of categories within the HVAC industry. Price increases, mergers and acquisitions, award winners, and more are highlighted here each issue.

Fieldcode: AI Voice Agent

June 21, 2025

Built directly into the Fieldcode system, the AI voice agents automate customer interactions by confirming appointments, capturing service issues, and updating tickets without manual input or external tools.

Cleveland Controls ANS2 Series Air Pressure Switch

Cleveland Controls: Air Pressure Switch

June 18, 2025

The ANS2 simplifies installation and calibration with a user-friendly design that allows technicians to set the desired pressure using an Allen wrench and built-in scale.

AO Smith Adapt SC Standard Condensing Tankless Water Heater

A.O. Smith: Condensing Tankless Water Heater

June 23, 2025

The Adapt SC water heater is designed for universal installation, either indoor or outdoor with an optional outdoor vent cap kit.

AERCO: Condensing Boiler

June 25, 2025

AERCO has expanded its CFR condensing boiler line with a new 2000 MBH model, adding to its existing 1500 and 3000 MBH offerings.

The Pate Company: Rooftop Sound Reduction and Vibration Isolation System

June 27, 2025

Designed to integrate with the company’s existing roof curbs, the PSS reduces noise transfer through roof-mounted equipment and improves thermal performance.

Enertech Global: Variable-Speed Hydronic Heat Pump

June 30, 2025

Standing just 42 inches tall, the WV eliminates the need for a buffer tank and offers a capacity range from 0.5 to 5 tons, making it suitable for both retrofit and new construction applications.

Home Guardian Home Monitoring System 1170x658

Home Monitoring Platform: Home Guardian System

June 29, 2025

The Home Guardian platform integrates with existing infrastructure and offers predictive analytics to help prevent failures before they occur.

On Demand As AI workloads and high-density computing push traditional cooling methods to their limits, the data center industry is accelerating the adoption of next-generation HVAC technologies.

In this session, we will cover how to design VRF systems for the U.S. market using new A2L refrigerants. These systems provide an advanced zoning solution by using inverter technology to deliver precise heating and cooling control across multiple zones and spaces.

ACHR NEWS

2025 July 14

Cover Story

What’s Going On With EPA’s Technology Transitions Rule?

The New Era of Dehumidification: Smarter Systems, Better Comfort

Feature Articles

Is it Time to Consider Privatizing Energy Star?

Innovative HVAC Solutions for Cannabis Cultivation

New Tech for New Techs: Using VR to Train and Retain Technicians

Big, Beautiful Bill Has Positives and Negatives for HVAC Industry

Venturing Into E-Commerce: What HVAC Contractors Should Think About

Comparing Refrigeration Systems for a Cold Storage Facility

SNIPS NEWS

How to Ace VRF Installation and Service

The Sports Complex Boom and the Unsung Tech That Makes it Work

Industrial Sheet Metal Fabricators Build Success with Innovation on the Shop Floor

Tips to Prepare You for a Construction Meeting

A Guide to Sheet Metal Clinching for HVAC Contractors

Trump Administration Keeps Biden-Era Project Labor Agreement Mandate, Sparking Backlash and Praise

Columns

A Technician’s Quick Guide to Non-Invasive System Checks

Legacy Lessons From a 1994 Geothermal Heat Pump Startup

Google Suspended Your HVAC (GBP) Business Profile — Now What?

Newsline

Rheem Assists Habitat for Humanity Building Project

Longtime Educator Tom Tebbe Announces Retirement

FYI

FYI: News Briefs in HVAC - July 14, 2025

New HVAC Products

Fieldcode: AI Voice Agent

Cleveland Controls: Air Pressure Switch

A.O. Smith: Condensing Tankless Water Heater

AERCO: Condensing Boiler

The Pate Company: Rooftop Sound Reduction and Vibration Isolation System

Enertech Global: Variable-Speed Hydronic Heat Pump

Home Monitoring Platform: Home Guardian System

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