Fresh AHR

An excerpt from our upcoming report on the annual HVACR trade show

What happens in Vegas…gets covered by trade publications when deemed necessary. 

For example: The AHR Expo (International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition) wrapped up a “monumental” week in Vegas, taking over the Central and South Halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center at the beginning of February (2-4). 

53,315 professionals–including engineers, sales channel partners, owners, contractors, installers and more–came together to experience the latest offering from 1,956 exhibitors at this year’s event. Vegas is always a good time (EASA-goers can vouch) so let’s hear what the HVAC community had to say.

“This industry just keeps getting more exciting,” said show manager Jeff Stevens. “We’re proud to serve as the place where HVACR professionals come together to tackle emerging challenges and discover new opportunities. As the pace of change continues to accelerate, our work together is more important than ever in shaping a built environment that is comfortable, safe, and efficient. AHR gives our industry the opportunity to connect with the technologies, ideas, and partnerships that move us forward.”

The HVACR industry continues to dive into new ways to provide heating, cooling and refrigeration to the “built environment”--a fancy term for buildings, for the uninitiated. One focus is “legacy technologies,” aka older systems, software, or hardware that are still in use but may be outdated, unsupported, or lacking modern features. The HVACR industry has taken the reins at accommodating and integrating these technologies.

“AHR Expo is three days of productive engagement with valued customers, suppliers and partners,” said Steve Ribaudo, VP & GM, Commercial HVAC Americas at Carrier. “We wrapped up a truly energizing week in Las Vegas, where the team at AHR Expo and our incredible team put on an amazing show and customer reception.” This week in conversation we heard about data centers, methods to strengthen workforce development initiatives, discussions of steadying refrigerant shortages coupled with a push in direction to new refrigerants, updated regulations, and more.  

In addition to the free industry program, already packed with sessions for all points of interest, the Education Program featured the 2026 Panel Series. Topics included refrigerants, data centers, workforce development, industry communication channels, heat pumps, ERV systems and the annual State of the Industry Panel.