CrossCurrents: Cybersecurity, Data Centers, and Jobsite Robotics
Editor’s note: The HVACR industry doesn't operate in a vacuum—and neither should the news you rely on.
Each installment off CrossCurrents curates the most important headlines from outside the traditional HVACR press, drawing on trusted reporting from across our parent company EndeavorB2B's network. From construction and manufacturing to energy, technology, workforce development, regulations, facilities management, and the economy, these are the stories that may not make the HVAC headlines but could influence the way you do business.
1. Cyberattacks Targeting U.S. Water Systems Prompt Renewed Focus on Utility Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly urgent priority for U.S. water utilities after coordinated cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota, temporarily disrupting treatment plant operations and forcing many facilities to switch to manual controls. Federal agencies, including the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), are investigating the attacks, which may be linked to Iranian-affiliated threat actors targeting critical infrastructure. The incidents underscore the vulnerability of operational technology (OT) systems and highlight the need for stronger cybersecurity practices, network segmentation, offline backup capabilities, and emergency response planning to keep essential services running during an attack.
Why HVAC contractors should care: As HVAC systems become more connected through building automation, IoT devices, and remote monitoring platforms, contractors are increasingly responsible for installing and servicing equipment that could become part of a customer's cybersecurity risk profile. Contractors working in municipal facilities, commercial buildings, healthcare, manufacturing, or other critical infrastructure should understand cybersecurity best practices, secure connected controls during installation, and help customers reduce vulnerabilities that could disrupt operations or compromise building systems.
2. How Data Centers Are Impacting Housing Supply
As AI adoption accelerates data center construction across the U.S., these facilities are increasingly competing with home builders for developable land—and often winning with dramatically higher bids. In Northern Virginia, for example, Amazon paid $700 million for 189 acres and SDC Capital Partners paid $615 million for 97 acres in 2025, far exceeding typical residential land values. Similar pressures are emerging in Illinois, Texas and Nevada, where data center demand is driving land prices sharply higher and, in some cases, replacing existing homes. The trend is particularly concerning in markets already facing housing shortages, as builders have less flexibility to absorb higher land costs while maintaining homes at prices buyers can afford.
Why HVAC contractors should care: The data center boom is creating major opportunities for HVAC contractors in specialized cooling, controls, commissioning and maintenance, but it also has broader effects on the communities where contractors live and work. Rising land costs and reduced housing supply can make it harder for workers to afford homes near growing job markets, while the construction surge is competing for skilled labor and resources. Contractors should view data center growth as both a significant business opportunity and a factor that could reshape local labor and housing markets.
3. PPI Warns Contractors About Non-Certified PEX Tubing Sold in North America
The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) is warning contractors, distributors and specifiers about certain PEX tubing products being sold in the U.S. and Canada that may not comply with mandatory industry standards or carry required third-party certification. Some of the products reportedly bear markings for standards such as ASTM F876 and CSA B137.5, but lack certification from an approved third-party agency, creating uncertainty about their performance and suitability for plumbing and mechanical applications. PPI says non-certified tubing could contribute to premature failures and property damage and expose companies throughout the supply chain to liability, failed inspections, costly rework, warranty claims and reputational damage.
Why HVAC contractors should care: Contractors involved in hydronic heating, radiant systems or other mechanical applications may encounter PEX tubing, particularly as heat pumps and hydronic technologies gain traction. Before purchasing or installing PEX, contractors should verify the product's third-party certification and markings rather than relying solely on claims printed on the tubing or product listing. Doing so can help prevent system failures, code issues, expensive callbacks and potential liability.
4. Adoption of Jobsite Robotics Doubles in 2026: BuiltWorlds Report
Jobsite robotics are moving rapidly from experimentation to mainstream construction, according to BuiltWorlds’ 2026 Annual Equipment & Robotics Benchmarking Report. The share of general and specialty contractors reporting some use of robotics jumped to 79% in 2026, up from 29% in 2025, while the percentage piloting or testing robotic solutions increased from 12% to 32%. Contractors cited improved accuracy as the leading benefit, followed by reduced manual effort and improved safety, reflecting growing demand for automation as projects become more complex, data-driven and difficult to staff.
Why HVAC contractors should care: Robotics could increasingly affect how HVAC work is installed, inspected, and coordinated on jobsites, particularly for repetitive, physically demanding or precision-based tasks. Contractors should begin watching emerging technologies and consider where automation could improve productivity, safety, and accuracy while helping address skilled-labor shortages.
5. When AI Writes the Safety Policy, Who Owns the Mistake?
As artificial intelligence becomes more common in workplace safety, it can help contractors and safety teams draft policies, procedures, training materials and checklists faster—but it cannot replace competent human review. EHS Today highlights the risks of relying on polished, AI-generated safety content that may be incomplete, outdated, jurisdictionally incorrect or disconnected from actual workplace hazards. The key issue isn't whether companies use AI, but whether they build appropriate oversight and accountability around it.
Why HVAC contractors should care: HVAC work involves numerous high-risk activities—from electrical work and lockout/tagout to refrigerant handling, fall protection and confined-space work—where a generic AI-generated procedure could leave out a critical hazard or regulatory requirement. Contractors can use AI as a productivity tool, but safety policies and training should always be reviewed by someone who understands the work, applicable OSHA requirements, and the company's specific equipment and procedures. Ultimately, if an AI-generated safety policy is wrong, the contractor—not the AI—is responsible.