The annual AHR Expo brought together 50,000 HVACR professionals from across the country to showcase emerging technologies and projects while delivering insights from industry leaders earlier this month.
No topic was left uncovered during the three-day long show. Attendees were able to gain industry knowledge on topics ranging from soft skills, sustainability, AI usage and how to recruit the next generation of tradesmen. In addition, the expo hall was filled with new product releases and technologies. Attendees were sure to leave the event with more than enough knowledge to bring home.
Here are a few key takeaways from the show:
Data centers are at the top of mind for nearly everyone in the industry. As FacilitiesNet previously reported, nearly 100 GW of new data centers will be added in the next four years, doubling global capacity. To prepare for this, manufacturers are releasing data center-specific systems that cool the facilities while adhering to sustainable goals.
Sensors have the ability to be integrated on nearly every device, giving facility managers ease of mind that their systems are being monitored at all times. As artificial intelligence becomes more mainstream, the technology can be added to the sensors, allowing young FMs to navigate maintenance more easily.
HVACR systems are known for being bulky pieces of equipment. Rightsizing efforts have become more prominent this year as manufacturers look for ways for the systems to seamlessly blend in with their surroundings. Offering more colorways and size options allows managers to upgrade their systems while still adhering to their facilities’ overall aesthetic.
As many facility professionals know, budgets can be a little tight. When selecting new products, cost is a major consideration. During the 2026 State of the Industry panel discussion, panelists explained that prices need to be affordable to the everyday user. While it’s nice to have the most cutting-edge technology integrated within the systems, it’s not accessible to most budgets. Panelists suggested that in the coming years affordable systems will be what most buyers are looking for.
Mackenna Moralez is the managing editor for the facilities group and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
