Some excerpts follow. The entire AHR 2023 Trend Report can be found HERE.
Farooq Mehboob, President, Fellow ASHRAE
"As an industry and as individuals, we have experienced the profound and lasting impacts of a global pandemic. It is an honor to be a part of an industry that proactively faced the challenges precipitated by the pandemic, becoming a solid resource for the public, policymakers and the media in providing answers, posing solutions and preventing the spread of misinformation as it relates to HVACR.
"The challenge doesn’t stop here. It is the obligation of our industry to provide practical information and keep building readiness top of mind as the current pandemic continues and as we prepare to face the next."
Stephen Yurek, President/CEO of AHRI
"As energy prices continue to rise, consumers are more aware than ever of the importance of energy efficient equipment, and our industry is well prepared to fill that need.
"The hottest topic – and most pressing issue – is ensuring that refrigerants set to replace high-GWP ,HFCs are approved for
"Certainly the most pressing issues facing the manufacturing side are continued supply chain issues and also ensuring that next-generation refrigerants will be able to be used in residential applications across all 50 states by mid-decade. Considerable progress has been made on the latter; the former thus far has defied a solution. Certainly high on our members’ radar is a solution to the supply chain issue for the long term. The current situation is unsustainable and is leading members to re-evaluate the sourcing of components to better ensure reliable availability in the future.
"The Board statement reiterated AHRI’s continued opposition to non-beneficial electric-only policies that restrict consumer choice."
Andy McMillan, president/managing director, BACnet International
"The external forces acting on the industry have increased in magnitude and volatility over the past few years. Things are not going to settle down anytime soon. If
"In building controls there is increasing recognition that all parts of the building infrastructure are related and need to be managed collectively. The digital and management chasms that frequently separate IT (Information Technology) and OT (Operational Technology) is being discussed and in many areas work is underway to address the issues."
Howard Weiss, chief operating officer/executive vice president, ESCO Group
"The HVACR industry is in the midst of the most significant technological revolution ever! Flammable refrigerants, electronic technology, equipment tied to the cloud, efficiency ratings, mini-splits systems, new codes, and
"The good news is that new challenges also bring new opportunities! The HVACR industry can unite around education to help everyone understand the transformative changes, while reinforcing the basics. In doing so, we can improve the performance of equipment, reduce energy cost, and help improve the perception of the industry as a whole.
Talbot Gee, CEO, HARDI
"Because of supply chain delays, distributors need to keep more inventory. Not only are there additional financial costs associated with carrying extra inventory, but operational efficiency is compromised when trying to function around it.
Doug Bougher, director of applied sales, LG Air Conditioning Technologies.
"There are three changes in the industry that I’ve seen affecting our business: electrification, refrigerant changes, and hybrid systems:
"Electrification is exciting in that it is driving us away from fossil fuels to cleaner heating and cooling technologies like heat
While that is happening, the industry is still trying to manage the refrigerant changes that will be implemented over the next few years. The good news is that it will make our products more efficient while lowering the GWP impact on the environment as well.
Lastly, I’ve seen an increase in the use of hybrid systems, meaning a mixture of different components of traditional systems. The inverter compressor technology of VRF, for example, is being coupled with air handler units and hydronic systems to make both better."
Randy Roberts, vice president, sales and marketing, Rheem Air Conditioning Division
Producing millions of heating, cooling and water heating products across the world per year that consume energy, Rheem plays a very natural role in decarbonization. Decarbonization is not only driven by regulations, but also an
Mike Mayberry, technician.
For me, it's continue on as normal. For a newer tech, it's endless opportunities for a hard worker. The company I work for is buried in work. We haven’t slowed down at all. Business in general is fantastic. A new trend in customer requests is updates and ETA’s. Customers are looking for better communication.
Getting equipment is the most pressing issue in the industry right now. Getting parts and equipment is really difficult.
Supply is a huge issue. Customers are looking to have systems fixed or replaced
And of Course, the Products
In addition to the 2023 Innovation Award winning products (see sidebar) thousands of additional HVACR products will be on display at the Georgia World Congress Center. Among those companies who answered our call for entries:
New Amana® brand S-series split system air conditioners and heat pumps merge the finest features and performance of ductless-style systems with the ability to connect to traditional ducted systems. Designed with a slim, small footprint, S-series require only 4” of clearance – ideal for zero-lot-line applications. Featuring high-performing inverter compressors, the variable-speed S-series delivers outstanding efficiencies quietly, up to 17.2 SEER2 and 8.5 HSPF2. A quiet mode enhances acoustical comfort, for more livable backyards. Flexible design and side discharge solve installation challenges for many projects, with the capability to mount on a pad or wall. Blue fin corrosion coating helps keep the coil clean. Intelligent defrost mode helps prevent frost/ice from building up in cold climates.
The Daikin Applied Pathfinder® — which, according to Daikin Applied, is the most efficient air-cooled screw chiller available —has been upgraded to deliver greater energy savings in the same footprint. Plus, contractors can now benefit from factory-installed pump packages that help ease
Pathfinder features industry-leading IPLVs capable of exceeding 22 EER, the Pathfinder is fully customizable to meet the size and performance needs of a broad range of applications. The chiller’s latest features include:
- A new compressor with Daikin VVR technology that provides higher efficiency, especially in part-load conditions.
- Pump packages for both packaged and free-cooling models that eliminate the need to size, source and install system pumps separately.
- ECM motors with greater horsepower.
The next generation of sustainability, connectivity and flexibility for new and existing commercial applications from Daikin is now reality with the VRV EMERION, all-electric heat recovery series from Daikin, the originator of variable refrigerant volume control. VRV EMERION delivers unmatched performance – up to 30.0 IEER and up to 30 percent more energy efficiency compared to standard VRF and previous VRV systems.
Innovative design helps return valuable space to building owners and tenants, making upgrading simpler while cutting installation costs. In wiring alone, the revamped lineup can reduce costs up to 34 percent.
-------------------The hilmor Lineset Cleaner is useful when installing a new system, replacing an old system, or changing out refrigerants. It uses a pressurized
Johnson Controls will demonstrate products and solutions that improve sustainability and optimize building performance aligned with pending U.S. government regulations and other building priorities. Johnson Controls will showcase a capacity expansion of the YORK CYK compound centrifugal water-to-water chiller/heat pump, which utilizes a two-compressor design to operate beyond the temperature range of typical centrifugal chillers.
A JCI residential product to see is the YORK® HMCG2 Side-Discharge AC unit, which hasa 40% smaller footprint than standard heat pump units, sources say. It is a compact and efficient cooling option that is ideal for higher-density areas with less installation space, such as multifamily apartments and zero-lot-line neighbourhoods. Available in a range of 2-5-ton models, HMCG2 air conditioners can reach efficiency levels up to 18.5 SEER2. B1617
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Parker ZoomLock refrigerant fittings, designed for the air conditioning and refrigeration markets, allow contractors to make leak-free connections in
The small and compact design of Sporlan's Type NX Thermostatic Expansion Valves makes this product ideal for foodservice and food retail applications such as display cases, ice machines, frozen drink dispensers, and commercial kitchen refrigerators and freezers.
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The Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) will highlight innovations in space conditioning and water heating from the leaders in ductless and ducted mini-split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat-pump and air-conditioning systems.
The new Hybrid VRF™ heat recovery zoning system is the world’s only two-pipe system with the ability to simultaneously heat and cool using water, not refrigerant, in occupied spaces. Also on display will be the Heat2O® Heat Pump Water Heater, designed to produce high-volume domestic hot water for commercial facilities in any climate. C6805
At booth B3261, NIBCO will feature five products:
- New LD 7000 butterfly valves
- New Webstone® Pro-Pal® multi-port transition tees
- 585HP high-performance ball valves – offering ease of installation and highest quality standards
- PressACR® fittings – a joining method designed for use in copper tube systems for air conditioning and refrigeration applications
- Wrot Racer® Push Fittings – premium copper push fittings.
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Ritchie Engineering Company, Inc., a leader in service tools for HVACR professionals and manufacturer of YELLOW JACKET® products, will introduce combustion analyzers CA502 and CA502P.
Sources tell us the combustion analyzer CA502 is a major entry for heating systems tools by YELLOW JACKET®. An essential tool, the Combustion Analyzer CA502
The CA502 Combustion Analyzer combines three key measurements into one analyzer: Ambient CO Monitor, Manometer and Combustion Analyzer.
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RectorSeal LLC. has announced the availability of Coil-Cure Liquid, a powerful disinfectant that kills up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses including coronavirus.
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The Ascend® air-water heat pump Model ACX from Trane® (140-230 tons cooling, 1500-2500 MBh heating) – a perfect fit for meeting sustainability and efficiency targets for heating or cooling from one electric source. The ACX’s built-in heat pump advances building electrification by reducing or eliminating gas-fired boilers – and shifting HVAC system energy use to utility grids increasingly powered by renewable energy resources.
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Trane – by Trane Technologies in November announced updates to its Precedent®, Odyssey™, and Foundation® lines of HVAC systems that help customers with buildings of all sizes embrace electrification and decarbonization.
The company also released version five of its essential system design software, TRACE® 3D Plus, with new capabilities engineers can use to design and validate projects with confidence and clarity.
Trane has released new standard and high-efficiency Precedent heat pumps in 12.5- to 25-ton capacities. The Precedent line meets the U.S. Department of
Sources say that when rooftop installation isn’t an option, a Trane Odyssey split system is a versatile choice that delivers up-to-date energy efficiency, meeting DOE 2023 standards. Split systems provide the same high-performance heating and cooling of a packaged rooftop system but allow engineers and contractors to work around unique building designs such as glass ceilings or pitched roofs or code and service limitations. The Odyssey’s exceptional energy efficiency is realized by its Symbio® 700 controller, now standard, and a new multi-speed air handler that can be configured for two-stage or single-zone VAV or Variable Volume Zone Temperature (VVZT).
The 2023 show will feature more than 85 free sessions led by industry experts put forth by industry organizations. Sessions will range from one to two hours and will aim to deliver solutions to some of the industry’s most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities. Attendees are invited to attend general HVAC-related sessions, as well as those specific to professional practice areas. A small sampling:
Monday, Feb. 6
Market Intelligence to Help You Make Growth Plans in the Current Markets: 8-10, B312
Fundamentals of Decarbonization Design Systems and Equipment: 8:30-11:30, A314
Humidity Control, Real World Problems & Solutions, 8:30-11:30, A316
The V in HVAC: Basic Requirements of ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022, 8:30-11:30, A313
Build a Maintenance Agreement Culture, 9-10, B315
HVAC Marketing in 2023: What Works, 10:15-10:35.
Automation for Small Buildings: 12:45-1:05, Theater D
Many other sessions will cover refrigerants, IAQ, duct design, dehumidification and cultivating talent.
Tuesday, Feb. 7
Building Automation and Smart Grid: 8-8:45, B314
Low GWP Refrigerants for Decarbonization Part 1: 8-9:30, B308
HVAC Regulatory Changes, Leveraging Opportunities: 9-10, B315
Intro to BACnet: 9-12, A313
New Market Challenges in Light Commercial TAB, 10:30-11:30, B316
Many more sessions will cover mobile apps, VFDs, building connectivity, ventilation, filters and air quality monitors.
Wednesday, Feb. 8
HVAC Financing Solutions: 1-2, B314
Right Tools for Resigning HVAC Electrification: 9-10, B316
A Memorable Brand: 1-10, B315
HVAC & Social Media: 10-11, C102 Auditorium
Hydronics: 10-11, B314
Additional sessions will cover branding, damper data collection, energy management, commissioning and air purification.
Panel Series
2023 State of the Industry: Bryan Orr returns to moderate a state-of-the-industry update with leaders from ASHRAE, AHRI, HARDI, PHCC, NCI, etc. regarding the current challenges, opportunities, and forecasts for the year ahead in HVACR. Tues. Feb. 7, 10-11 AM, C102 Auditorium.
Decarbonization: Discussion on decarbonization and HVACR’s role in preparedness, regulation and standard planning, opportunities and challenges and expectations. Tues. Feb. 7, 1-2 PM; C102 Auditorium.
Communication: A conversation on the flow of communication within the industry, to better understand how shareholder audiences currently receive and understand information as well as identify the best places to source information.
Basics of Refrigerant Changeover: In light of the imminent refrigerant changeover, leaders discuss the breakdown of what changes are occurring and when they are happening, as well as the expectations at the manufacturer level and in the field. Monday, Feb. 6, 1-2 PM, C102 Auditorium.
2023 AHR INNOVATION AWARD WINNERS
Building Automation: Cielo Breez Max is the industry's first true smart thermostat for mini-split, window, and portable air conditioners. It is loaded with next-gen features and takes a giant leap in the HVAC industry with its AI based Comfy Max mode which offers the true thermostat-like smart experience for all ductless air conditioners. Booth C6700
Cooling: Opteon™ XL41 is a non-ozone depleting, low global warming potential refrigerant replacement for R-410A in residential and light commercial air conditioning, and scroll chiller applications. Chemours says It maximizes the benefits of the transition to HFO refrigerants while minimizing the impact of the transition. Booth C6425
Indoor Air Quality: Belimo room sensors accurately measure temperature, humidity, dew point, and CO2 with or without an ePaper touch display. Integrated Near Field Communication (NFC) provides easy field adjustability, commissioning, remote display capabilities, and troubleshooting even without power. Booth B315
Plumbing: The only direct-acting pressure regulating valve in North America with true piston operation, the Caleffi PresCal™HP family ensures stable, high-precision water pressure control while withstanding severe inlet pressure or punishing downstream water hammer. Booth B3317
Heating: Emerson’s ZPSK7 scroll compressor is the most efficient two-stage compressor developed in the 100-year history of the Copeland™ brand. The Copeland™ ZPSK7 scroll compressor is a product line of 1.5–5-ton two-stage compressors ideally suited for residential and light commercial HVAC applications. Booth B1839, B1849
Refrigeration: The Copeland ZFW variable speed scroll solution includes brushless permanent magnet motor-based scrolls and variable frequency drives for low-temperature, stationary refrigeration applications. The variable speed scroll provides better efficiency, precision, flexibility and reliability. Booth B1839, 1849
Tools: NAVAC NEF6LM BreakFree Power Flaring Tool yields accurate, hassle-free tubing flares in a fraction of time compared to traditional flaring methods. Designed to perform reliably in harsh environments, NEF6LM also allows one-button, one-hand operation. Booth C636
Ventilation: SmartD's Clean Power Variable Frequency Drive changes the motor control landscape. By delivering a clean, sinusoidal signal it reduces motor system losses by up to 40% and extends motor lifetime in a compact footprint that can be deployed without ancillary filters. Booth C5948
Software: Built for mechanical engineers, the cove.tool loadmodeling.tool web app quickly and automatically establishes peak cooling and heating loads to design and right-size the mechanical system using the EnergyPlus engine. Booth 4561
Sustainable Solutions: Taco Comfort Solutions' ultra-efficient System M consists of a sleek, whisper-quiet, inverter-driven outdoor heat pump that can be up to 4 times more efficient than a gas furnace. The outdoor heat pump seamlessly integrates with Taco’s exclusive indoor HydroBox to provide a complete system with just 6 pipe connections needed. Booth B1639
Contractors Aware of Issues
Emerson followed up with HVAC contractors and wholesalers about their knowledge of and preparation for increasing federal minimum SEER/IEER efficiency requirements mandated for AC systems and heat pumps by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) effective January 1, 2023. Most respondents (91%) are aware of the upcoming regulatory changes, and the majority have at least a basic understanding of requirements (61%). Compared to last year’s survey results, there was a significant increase in the number of industry professionals who say they have an extensive understanding of these regulations and their requirements, from 9% to 21% of respondents.
The survey shows there was a significant decline in respondents who currently had no plans to act on the new ratings procedure and the change from SEER to SEER2 in central air conditioning (44% to 14%), as well as the upcoming changes on refrigerant regulations (37% to 14%). Additionally, most respondents said daily operations have already been affected by the 2023 regulation changes. Since last year’s survey, many respondents have talked to original equipment manufacturers, attended product information meetings, created a new inventory plan, trained service personnel, and developed new marketing plans for new standards. Additionally, there was an uptick in companies who said their operations are affected by the new standards, from 61% to 80%.