Regulatory changes, sustainability initiatives, and workforce development dominate the latest insights from industry leaders.
The AHR Expo has released its highly anticipated 2024 Industry Trend Report, providing a comprehensive look at the key challenges and opportunities shaping the HVACR sector. The report, compiled with input from leading industry associations and professionals, highlights the ongoing evolution of regulations, the push toward decarbonization, advances in smart technology, and the growing need for a skilled workforce.
As the HVACR industry continues to adapt to shifting market demands and environmental policies, the report outlines major trends that will define the year ahead. These include:
- Regulatory Impact & Green Transition: The transition to low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, updated building performance standards, and decarbonization initiatives continue to shape industry practices. The global refrigerant transition, led by the United States, remains a focal point.
- Smart Technologies & Building Automation: The adoption of IoT, artificial intelligence (AI), and data-driven control systems is transforming how buildings operate, improving efficiency, predictive maintenance, and cybersecurity.
- Workforce & Training Needs: Addressing labor shortages and enhancing training programs are critical as the industry shifts towards electrification, heat pumps, and new refrigerants. Associations emphasize the need for upskilling HVACR professionals to meet these evolving demands.
- Supply Chain Stabilization & Market Growth: After years of disruption, the HVACR supply chain has largely recovered, though ongoing changes related to A2L refrigerants and electrification are expected to impact equipment availability and distribution strategies.
- Product & Technology Adoption: Heat pumps continue to gain traction as a preferred solution for energy-efficient heating and cooling, driven by federal incentives and climate policies.
Industry Voices on the Future of HVACR
"The global refrigerant transition, led by the United States, is well underway, and will prove to be a seamless transition when all is said and done. Decarbonization has highlighted our industry as a solution to emission and energy use reductions.” said Stephen Yurek, President & CEO of AHRI.
ASHRAE President Ginger Scoggins emphasized the industry's role in building decarbonization efforts, stating, “As climate change accelerates, HVACR professionals must lead in integrating sustainable solutions, from heat pumps to advanced energy management.”
The full AHR Expo 2024 Industry Trend Report is available online and will be a key discussion topic at the upcoming AHR Expo in Chicago. Industry leaders, manufacturers, and professionals will convene to explore the latest innovations, regulatory shifts, and workforce strategies that will drive HVACR forward in 2024 and beyond.