AHR Shares 2025 Trend Report Ahead of Annual Expo: Sustainability, Workforce Development, and A2L Transition Take Center Stage

The HVACR industry is poised for a transformative year in 2025, as highlighted in the newly released AHR Trend Report, unveiled ahead of the annual AHR Expo set to take place in February 2025 in Orlando, Florida. The report, a collaborative effort featuring insights from 13 major North American and international associations, underscores sustainability, workforce development, and the transition to A2L refrigerants as the defining themes for the year ahead.

The report provides a comprehensive outlook on the challenges and opportunities facing the HVACR industry, with a strong emphasis on the sector’s shift toward greener practices, technological innovation, and the need for enhanced training and collaboration. Industry leaders, including ASHRAE, IAPMO, BSRIA, HARDI, and RSES, contributed their perspectives, painting a picture of an industry at the forefront of climate action and technological advancement.

Sustainability: A Driving Force for Innovation

Sustainability emerged as a central theme in the report, with associations highlighting the industry’s ongoing transition to energy-efficient solutions and renewable energy sources. Krystyna Dawson, Commercial Director of BSRIA Ltd., noted that the HVACR industry is undergoing a “green transformation,” driven by environmental concerns and rising energy costs.

“Heat pumps that can deliver heating, cooling, and hot water are gaining traction, becoming the preferred choice for new homes, while the industry explores innovative solutions to decarbonize existing buildings,” Dawson said. This shift toward sustainable technologies is not only reshaping product offerings but also influencing market dynamics and consumer preferences.

Workforce Development: Bridging the Skills Gap

As the industry embraces new technologies and sustainable practices, workforce development has become a critical focus. M. Dennis Knight, President of ASHRAE, emphasized the importance of combining technological advancements with human creativity to attract and retain the next generation of professionals.

“By combining technological power with human creativity, both experienced professionals and new talent can work together to shape the future of our industry,” Knight said. “We need to demonstrate how our work directly impacts indoor environmental quality, climate action, and sustainable development.”

The report also highlighted the challenges of training technicians on emerging technologies, particularly as the industry transitions to A2L refrigerants. Lori Schiavo, Senior Director of Operations at the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES), expressed concerns about the timing of training programs.

The A2L Transition: Challenges and Opportunities

The transition to A2L refrigerants, which are classified as mildly flammable but have lower global warming potential (GWP) than traditional refrigerants, was identified as one of the most significant trends for 2025. However, this shift is not without its complexities.

Talbot Gee, CEO of Heating Air-conditioning Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), pointed out the challenges the A2L transition poses for distributors and the supply chain.

“The A2L transition brings particular challenges for HVACR distributors and continues to add complexity to market forecasts and product availability,” Gee said. “Companies with the financial strength and capacity to adapt are poised to weather these uncertainties more successfully.”

The report also emphasized the need for proactive training and education to ensure a smooth transition to A2L refrigerants, particularly given the safety considerations associated with their use.

Collaboration and Innovation: Keys to a Greener Future

Throughout the report, industry leaders stressed the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving the HVACR industry forward. John Mullen, Director of the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), highlighted the intersection of technology and teamwork as a major theme for 2025.

“Innovations in sustainable technologies, AI integration, and enhanced workforce development are driving the industry forward,” Mullen said. “This is a time of collaboration and creativity, with a shared vision for a greener, smarter future.”

The report also featured insights from major industry players, including LG and Johnson Controls, as well as hosts from five HVACR podcasts, providing a well-rounded perspective on the trends shaping the industry.

Looking Ahead to the AHR Expo 2025

The AHR Expo, scheduled for February 2025 in Orlando, will serve as a platform for industry professionals to explore the latest innovations, products, and solutions aligned with the trends outlined in the report. With sustainability, workforce development, and the A2L transition taking center stage, the expo promises to be a pivotal event for the HVACR industry.

The full AHR 2025 Trend Report is available online and offers a detailed breakdown of the predictions and insights shared by industry leaders. As the HVACR sector continues to evolve, the report serves as a valuable resource for professionals navigating the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead.

For more information and to access the full report, visit:
2025 AHR Trend Report


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