Baird's AHR Expo 2026 Recap
Baird’s Thermal & Climate Technologies team maintained a strong presence at the HVAC/R industry’s leading trade show, AHR Expo. Bringing together 1,900+ exhibitors, 50,000+ attendees and 350+ speakers from across the HVAC/R industry, the team continues to value the direct conversations the event creates with many of the industry’s most active executives and investors.
AHR Expo 2026 was particularly productive, with more than 60 executive and investor discussions and over 80 attendees at Baird’s annual reception. This level of engagement continues to sharpen our perspective on the major themes shaping the HVAC/R market and helps guide our outlook for industry performance and investment activity through 2026.
Key Themes Discussed at AHR Expo 2026
- Rapid expansion of data center infrastructure is driving near constant cooling technology innovations
- AI and smart controls are seeing greater adoption and use cases within field applications
- Residential HVAC/R equipment market is showing early signs of stabilization
- Early stages of convergence between the HVAC/R and water heater channels
- Both building owners and occupants are expanding their view of indoor environmental quality (IEQ)
- HFC to A2L refrigerant transition continues to be a focus area for equipment manufacturers and service technicians
- The industry continues to seek opportunities to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions
- Accelerated development of the next generation of skilled workforce is critical to the HVAC/R industry
Contact a member of our team to discuss these takeaways or any Thermal & Climate Technologies related opportunities.
