AHR Trending Topic
Plumbing & Mechanical

Enhancing performance and reducing energy consumption

Plumbing and mechanical innovations are poised to contribute to growing trends in the HVACR as the industry moves toward greater decarbonization and energy efficiency. The integration of AI and other applied smart technologies is a driving factor for improvements in system efficiency and reliability. Real-time monitoring, along with more precise predictive maintenance capabilities, is also enhancing performance and reducing overall energy consumption. As these technologies become more widespread, it is expected that new opportunities for sustainable solutions will be realized.

 

Highlights from the AHR Education Program that address Plumbing & Mechanical

 

 

What industry leaders are saying about Plumbing & Mechanical

(Excerpts from the 2026 AHR Expo Trend report)

“The heating and cooling industry is changing faster than it ever has. The scope is expanding, and new methods are being tested and verified every day. Keep your ear to the ground for the innovative ways plumbers and fitters are reshaping the nation’s energy landscape. As we head into 2026, AI-driven controls, advanced hydronic systems, and Thermal Energy Networks are moving from concept to core infrastructure. The momentum is incredible, but so is the responsibility. Meeting climate goals, improving efficiency, and training a new generation of skilled workers to keep pace. Water remains our most overlooked energy asset, and when used as a tool for thermal energy transfer, it creates systems that are cleaner, more resilient, and more cost-effective for communities everywhere.”

— John Mullen, IAPMO

“The acquisition and consolidation of plumbing and HVAC contracting businesses by private equity groups continues to be a notable trend.”

“Even with a new Congress and presidential administration that is much more favorable to consumer energy choice, PHCC remains vigilant (especially at the state and local levels) in ensuring that residential and commercial building owners have unlimited options when it comes to the utilities and appliances necessary for building performance, regardless of energy source. We are working with Congress and the administration to identify ways to intervene in order to protect consumers from heavy-handed policies that prevent or highly restrict the use of natural gas and delivered fuels when those energy solutions are often the most appropriate. As Congress prepares to debate the possible reform of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1974 (EPCA), we see an opportunity to address this matter and provide clarity when it comes to federal preemption.”

— Cindy Sheridan, PHCC

Trending Discussions

Thermal Energy Networks (TENs) - Efficient and financial incentives provided by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). linking multiple buildings through a network of pipes, excess heat from one building can be used to meet the heating needs of another, while cooling requirements can be similarly balanced. This creates a symbiotic relationship that maximizes energy use and minimizes waste. (Source: IAPMO)

Decarbonization Policies - Certain states, specifically New York, California, and Massachusetts continue to take a more aggressive posture toward energy decarbonization policies. (Source: PHCC)

Predictive Analytics - AI in Plumbing systems changing how systems are managed and maintained. Predictive analytics and machine learning paired with smart controls make it possible to preempt issues. 

Renewable Energy Integration - Geothermal, TENs, and other modern renewable technologies reduce reliance on fossil fuels. (Source: IAPMO)

Private Equity & Acquisitions - The acquisition and consolidation of plumbing and HVAC contracting businesses by private equity groups continues to be a notable trend. (Source: PHCC)

Data Centers - As data centers continue to support the growing needs of high-energy computing and emerging technologies like quantum computing, the industry must address the immense energy consumption and heat generation associated with these facilities. Water-based cooling systems are emerging as a highly effective solution for data center cooling. By leveraging the superior thermal properties of water, these systems can dissipate heat more efficiently than air-based cooling methods. Water's ability to absorb and transfer heat makes it an ideal medium for cooling high-energy computing environments.

 

Workforce Development for Plumbing  

Properly trained HVACR and plumbing professionals will have a unique opportunity to work on hybrid water heating solutions, such as heat pump water heaters, across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. (Source: ESCO Group)

As plumbing and HVAC products become more complex, contractors will depend on manufacturers and distributors to provide training and technical support specific to their products to facilitate professional installations, operations, and maintenance. In turn, that promotes the consumer/contractor relationship allowing for continued service of a system throughout the lifecycle of that product. (Source: PHCC)