Hitachi - Experts & Thought Leaders

Bosch Home Comfort Group will make its landmark debut at AHR Expo 2026. The recent milestone of incorporating the YORK® and Hitachi brands in its portfolio sparks a new era for the company fueled by the strength of these iconic brands. From Feb. 2–4 in Las Vegas, attendees will be the first to experience the Bosch Comfort Revolution through an immersive booth experience that demonstrates how the expanded portfolio creates a single, powerful ecosystem that redefines comfort for contractors and homeowners alike. Transformation and progress for contractors “By bringing together the Bosch, YORK® and Hitachi brands, we’re redefining what comfort means, merging intelligence, reliability and electrification into one seamless experience,” said David Budzinski, deputy CEO global, president Americas, Bosch Home Comfort Group. “The future of comfort is forged through the shared innovation, engineering excellence and decades of expertise each of these iconic brands bring, forming a unified core positioned to drive true transformation and progress for contractors and for the HVAC industry at large.” Greater energy efficiency and improved comfort The heating and cooling innovations prove greater efficiency and enhanced comfort can go hand-in-hand. The Bosch Home Comfort Group booth at AHR Expo 2026 will feature the latest heating and cooling systems equipped with high-performance technologies that cut utility costs while delivering consistent, precise temperatures for occupants. Bosch Ci and Ri Series Water Source Heat Pumps are now equipped with inverter technology. The Ci and Ri Series offer improved comfort and humidity control compared to non-inverter systems, while achieving superior energy efficiency and lower utility bills for home and business owners. Available in 1.5, 3, and 5 tons, both systems have a compact footprint, making for easy and seamless installation. New Hitachi air365 Max with R-32 The new Hitachi air365 Max with R-32 offers highly efficient, zone-based heating and cooling simultaneously. Using R-32, an A2L refrigerant with low global warming potential, the system includes an A2L built-in detection and mitigation device for compliant installations. Outdoor units are offered as both universal heat pump and heat recovery, for greater application flexibility and further energy savings. Reliable comfort in every building, every climate Advancements in commercial rooftop unit (RTU) technology and design have significantly improved system efficiency and dependability. Built-in redundancies help ensure reliable operation for every application. As the very first commercial rooftops offered by the brand, the Bosch Pro RTUs feature a premium cabinet with best-in-class options and are among the most efficient dual-circuit rooftop units on the market. The product showcases new options like a dual fuel heat pump with gas furnace backup, hot gas reheat dehumidification in a heat pump, and a direct drive plenum supply fan. Available in AC models with three efficiency tiers from 3 to 12.5 tons and in both standard heat pump and dual fuel heat pump configurations from 6.5 to 12.5 tons, Bosch Pro RTUs offer the perfect combination of serviceability, flexibility and efficiency to maximize value over the full life of the unit. YORK® Sun™ Choice Dual Fuel RTUs YORK® Sun™ Choice Dual Fuel RTUs combine a heat pump with a gas or propane furnace as a backup heat source to deliver efficient heating and cooling and consistent comfort year-round in colder climates. The systems feature direct drive plenum supply fans, and integrated intelligence automatically transitions heating operation to the most optimal energy source based on outdoor conditions. Ideal for a wide range of light commercial applications, Sun™ Choice Dual Fuel RTUs help reduce utility bills and support long-term energy goals. Innovative technologies driving electrification across applications As the movement to decarbonize residential heating and cooling continues, improvements in heat pump designs make it possible to electrify a greater range of homes and buildings. Advancements in compressor technology extend climate range while compact footprints and multiple configuration options fit in more spaces. The Inverter Ducted Split Edge Heat Pump from Bosch introduces a new compact outdoor solution to the flagship Inverter Ducted Split (IDS) Family product line. Built on inverter and VRF-based technology, the IDS Edge is a compact, flexible, and efficient solution for both residential single-zone and multi-zone applications and will be available in both standard and high-performance versions. The YORK® YC8 18 SEER2 Air Conditioner achieves excellent energy efficiency, humidity control and precision comfort with a modulating compressor ideally suited to meet the cooling demands of many climates. Available in 2, 3 and 5 ton sizes, the YC8 offers temperature stability and quiet comfort with sound levels as low as 67 dBA. Flexible designs and low-GWP refrigerants “From advanced controls and cutting-edge engineering to flexible designs and low-GWP refrigerants, the new, unified product offering from Bosch Home Comfort Group offers contractors unparalleled access to the performance features driving outcomes that matter most to their customers,” said Budzinski. “By bringing together the best of three well-established brands, we are redefining comfort in new and crucial ways, driving innovation, efficiency, and reliability in a cohesive experience designed for every season and every building.”

These two Hitachi air conditioning design concepts won the Red Dot Design Concept Awards 2025, including “Best of the Best” award for “airCloset” and Desgin Concept Award for “airHive”. Rather than leaving HVAC idle between cycles, these award-winning concepts weave air conditioning into furniture and architectural features, keeping spaces functional and comfortable all year. integrating vertical vents Closets are large and tall, and they are usually fixed against a wall. These qualities make them ideal for housing an air-conditioning module. By integrating vertical vents on the side of the storage space, the air-conditioning module blends seamlessly into the furniture. For enhanced comfort, in cooling mode, air is released from the upper section of the vents, distributing cool air evenly throughout the room. In heating mode, warm air flows from the lower part, gently warming the space from the ground up. New modular ducted HVAC system “With its sophisticated design and advanced functionality, the airCloset enhances indoor comfort while elevating the aesthetic appeal of contemporary interiors, making it a perfect addition to modern living,” summarized Lead Designer - Liu Yang. For office and commercial buildings, indoor air quality control is an essential factor to ensure comfort, safety, and productivity. Uniting air purification, air conditioning, ventilation, and air quality monitoring, the “airHive” is a new modular ducted HVAC system that integrates smart functions to keep indoor environments clean and fresh, while supporting architectural patterns and scalability. “Not only does it bring aesthetics and modularity, but the ‘airHive’ system is also extremely flexible, as it can be expanded to more rooms over time or change configuration,” said Lead Designer, Luis Reyes.

Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand is proud to announce the launch of its new generation of wall-mounted air-conditioning systems, airHome 800 HeatForce. Designed for modern residential living and available in both single- and multi-split configurations, the upgraded range combines contemporary styling with exceptional efficiency and advanced air-quality technologies. High efficiency, even at extreme cold Operating with low-GWP R32 refrigerant and available in capacities from 2.5 to 5kW, airHome 800 HeatForce delivers reliable heating and cooling performance while helping households reduce energy bills. Rated A+++ for both heating and cooling, it achieves a SEER of up to 9.50 and a SCOP of up to 5.20. Engineered for harsh winter conditions, the latest airHome 800 HeatForce models maintain dependable heating output in temperatures as low as –15°C, thanks to Constant Power technology. The system continues operating even at –20°C, ensuring comfort and peace of mind throughout the coldest months. Refined design and enhanced indoor air quality The new airHome 800 features an elegant design, available in brilliant white and sophisticated grey, crafted to blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors. While its appearance has been modernized, the system maintains advanced air-treatment features that have long distinguished the Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand. Equipped with FrostWash™ technology, the unit keeps its heat exchanger clean through a three-stage cycle of heating, frosting and defrosting. The AQtiv-Ion ioniser disperses negative ions to help eliminate pollutants, while the integrated antivirus filter and Mold Guard function work together to maintain healthier indoor air by reducing the risk of mould build-up in humid conditions. FrostWash™ technology FrostWash™ technology is also applied to the outdoor unit, while the DuraSpin function reverses the fan’s rotation in cooling mode to remove accumulated dust. Indoors, comfort is further improved with ultra-low noise levels from 21 dB(A), wide airflow coverage and an integrated motion detector that adjusts temperature and power according to room occupancy. Smart control made simple With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, users can manage their airHome 800 system remotely via the airCloud Go app on smartphone, tablet or PC. The system is fully compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, enabling effortless voice control. A smart geofencing function ensures the unit adapts automatically to the user’s location, while the supplied LED-backlit remote control provides quick access to all core settings, including temperature, fan speed, operating mode and airflow direction.

The HVAC Industry gathered in Orlando for AHR Expo 2025, focusing on the latest advancements in technology. Attendees included contractors, manufacturers, engineers, system design professionals, facility managers, architects, wholesalers, and distributors. This year’s expo highlighted game-changing innovations, regulatory shifts, and emerging trends designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity. For HVAC professionals, these developments translate into practical solutions that improve system performance, optimize energy use, and simplify compliance with evolving industry standards. The Next Phase of Refrigerant Transition The transition to A2L refrigerants is a dominant theme at this year’s expo, with major players such as Arkema, Chemours, LG Electronics, Rheem, Daikin, and others showcasing the latest refrigerants and equipment solutions. Following the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, the shift from R-410A to R-32 and R-454B is well underway, with 80% of manufacturers opting for R-454B. While concerns about flammability persist, experts emphasize that proper training and system design can mitigate risks. LG Electronics' full product line Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution. Daikin was among the manufacturers to go all-in on R-32, which required a complete redesign of product components, ultimately pioneering to more efficient, cost-effective systems, according to the company. LG Electronics' full product line now uses R-32 refrigerant, and they started shipping products in December. All R-410A equipment will be gone by the end of Q1. variety of products on R-454B refrigerant Rheem announced their 100-year anniversary, and a new tagline, "Engineered for Life." They say the trend is toward side-discharge heat pumps, although the industry needs a mix of both. They had a variety of products on display that use R-454B refrigerant.  Attendees at AHR Expo 2025 came away with an understanding that refrigerant regulations and selecting compatible equipment will be crucial for ensuring smooth transitions in commercial and residential applications. Intelligent Building Automation and Controls Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building control, with AI-driven automation Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building management, with AI-driven automation, IoT connectivity, and remote monitoring taking center stage. Companies like Distech Controls and Schneider Electric are introducing IP-based controllers that integrate seamlessly with existing building management systems. Belimo’s intelligent butterfly valve and Delta’s Node-RED Programming with built-in Python support, among other products, are making automation more powerful and user-friendly. Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat and Sensi equipment interface module (EIM) can eliminate the need to pull additional wires during installation. The system is weatherproof, indoor, or outdoor, and communicates using radio frequency (RF). AHR Expo 2025 made a strong case that investing in smart controls will improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enable predictive maintenance. Hydronic Systems for Data Center Cooling One major player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target data center market The rise of data center cooling solutions was another recurring theme at AHR. One prominent player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target the data center market. The company’s e-1531X and e-1532X smart pumps offer enhanced energy efficiency and a larger "efficiency island." These systems are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable data center cooling, providing a net-zero roadmap. As data center energy consumption rises, hydronic solutions offer a scalable, efficient approach to thermal management. Heat Pumps Expand Capabilities and Market Reach Heat pumps continue to dominate as a top energy-efficient alternative for commercial and residential applications. Companies such as Danfoss, Mitsubishi, and Samsung are pushing the boundaries with heat pumps that operate in extreme temperatures. Danfoss is progressing forward related to four application areas at AHR 2025--heat pumps, data centers, RTU/DOAS, and retail/refrigeration. Emphasis is on lower emissions and better energy efficiency. Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including modular air handler Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including their modular air handler – the  EVOX G³ – that breaks down into three pieces for easy movement and installation in any of six configurations. They are also opening showrooms throughout the country so consumers and contractors can see and touch the products. Integration with renewable energy sources Johnson Controls-Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called FrostWash Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning’s Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called "FrostWash;" they intentionally build a frost layer on the coil so the fine particulates can be captured and then melted away, thus avoiding mold and other contaminants. It can be used in lieu of UV light, which damages plastics. The heat pump market is growing rapidly, and advancements in low-temperature performance and integration with renewable energy sources will drive adoption. The Drive Toward Sustainability Sustainability is a recurring theme at the expo, with manufacturers prioritizing energy-efficient equipment, smart automation, and low-GWP refrigerants. Companies like Lennox, and Rheem are launching highly efficient packaged rooftop units and unitary heat pump systems. Grundfos’s distributed pumping technology and Ziehl-Abegg’s ZAcore intelligent control platform further demonstrate the industry's push toward lower energy consumption and minimal environmental impact. Investing in sustainable HVAC technologies Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico Lennox is serving the "emergency replacement" market for HVAC equipment with their Xion line. Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico. Telling the "story" of humidification at AHR 2025, Condair has products for any vertical. They say more education and awareness are needed on the value of humidification. As regulations tighten and demand for green building solutions rises, investing in sustainable HVAC technologies will be critical for long-term success. Smarter, Cleaner, and More Efficient AHR Expo 2025 underscores the industry's shift toward smarter, cleaner, and more efficient HVAC solutions. Whether it’s refrigerant transitions, intelligent automation, or advanced heat pump technology, staying ahead of these trends will help HVAC professionals deliver superior performance while meeting regulatory requirements. The innovations showcased in Orlando set the stage for a future where HVAC systems are not only more efficient and environmentally friendly but also easier to manage and integrate into modern buildings.

AHR Expo 2024 was abuzz with activity, befitting a dynamic industry in the throes of change.  Industry developments such as electrification and the refrigerant transition render business opportunities on the AHR Expo show floor, where exhibitors display a determination to meet the challenges and thrive in the process. Walking from booth to booth during the three-day show in Chicago, I saw the best the HVAC industry has to offer, up close and personal. Innovation and adaptability are the watchwords as the industry journeys into 2024 and beyond. Refrigerant Transition Top of Mind  Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment The technology transition is well underway for OEMs seeking to meet a pending AIM Act deadline at the end of the year. OEMs are choosing to embrace either R-32 or R454-B refrigerant to replace legacy R-410A, which is being phased out. Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment, while R-32 offers advantages such as higher capacity, higher efficiency, and easier cradle-to-cradle management. Arkema Arkema is the only producer of R-32 refrigerant in the United States. The newer refrigerant is being embraced as HVAC OEMs seek to meet the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, to use lower-GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants in their products. The technology transition is just part of the AIM Act implementation that will also limit allocation and require refrigerant management. Chemours Chemours is a manufacturer of R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C refrigerants. At AHR, they presented hourly education sessions on a variety of subjects. The refrigerant transition will impact everyone in the industry, including refrigerant producers, equipment manufacturers, contractors, and end users. R-454B refrigerant provides identical performance in HVAC systems compared to the previous refrigerant (R-410A). There is less need to redesign equipment; just adding sensors for leak mitigation can address the mild flammability of A2L refrigerants. Because of the 2025 deadline, 2024 will be the “year of new products” in the HVAC market. OEMs pioneering Innovation  Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets Innovation in the HVAC market is led by companies such as Carrier, which has introduced 100 new products each year for the past eight years. Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets, and providing flexibility for customers. New products include the AquaSnap 30RC air-cooled chiller and the AquaEdge 19MV chiller with low GWP refrigerant to meet pending regulatory requirements.  Copeland Copeland, recently divested from Emerson, also emphasizes innovation, including 12 research and development (R&D) facilities, 1,700 engineers, and more than 3,000 patents. At a press conference at AHR Expo, the 100-year-old company announced it is a “new” company owned by Blackstone Private Equity.  Products featured Among the featured products at AHR are Copeland’s oil-free centrifugal compressor with Aero-lift bearing technology; and Copeland’s CC200 case controller, specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of the current retail grocery refrigeration environments. Copeland also pledges to play a role in educating the market about new trends and the transition to new refrigerants.  Emphasizing a Smaller Footprint  Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency Daikin Daikin highlights the Atmosphera, a single-zone ductless split system (using R-32) that can reduce carbon emissions by 80% (compared to R-410A). Also, Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency. Products emphasize a smaller footprint and less weight than their predecessors. Rebel Applied is a packaged rooftop unit that continually adjusts operation to address the building load, consuming less energy. Trailblazer HP is an air-to-water heat pump chiller with a reversing function that allows the product to switch between cooling and heating based on temperature requirements.  Friedrich Air Conditioning Friedrich Air Conditioning features the Breeze universally flexible inverter heat pump, a ducted mini-split for upgrading traditional equipment. It works with any furnace or air handler, has side discharge, is 40% smaller, and is cold weather capable to minus 13. Friedrich's new Vert-I-Pak is a line of M1-compliant single package Vertical Heat Pumps (available in 9K, 12K, 18K, and 24K Btu), supporting decarbonization efforts with heat pump operation down to 10°F. High Efficiency for Commercial and Residential Johnson Controls Johnson Controls exhibits their highly efficient residential and commercial HVAC solutions designed for Department of Energy (DOE) 2023 compliance and helping customers achieve Net Zero goals through decarbonization. On display was the York High-Efficiency 18 SEER2 Side-Discharge Heat Pump with up to 30% smaller footprint than vertical-discharge equipment. Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning's Aircore 700 single split system is aimed at light commercial and residential. Midea Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit Midea, known for selling consumer products, has kept a low profile in the professional sector, selling products that are either OEMed for Carrier or private-labeled by a contractor company. Seeking to promote the Midea brand, the Chinese company is staking its claim on the trade market with an emphasis on performance: The company exceeded performance in the Department of Energy’s “ColdClimate Heat Pump Challenge:” Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat pump awareness Results of a survey conducted by Midea show that more than half of homeowners are not fully aware of heat pumps and their function. Awareness lags among contractors, too: 70% of contractors indicate they do not know that the current’s advanced heat pumps can generate 100% heat output to a minimum temperature of minus 4 F. Wide Selection of New Products Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US emphasizes all-electric heat pump solutions. The Deluxe Wall-mounted H2i sumo System connects with an outdoor unit, and the intelli-HEAT dual fuel system can determine the best source of heat – electric or gas – on cold days. Among commercial products, Heat2OHeat Pump Water Heaters are designed to produce high-volume domestic hot water for commercial facilities in any climate. LG Electronics LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and building management solutions for residential and commercial applications. Home electrification products include the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc system; the LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater the LG Electronics Home 8 Energy Storage System, and ThinQ, LG’s mobile app. LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit The LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit features a customizable picture frame that doubles as a cooling and heating vent. Also, LG’s Medium and High-Temperature Hydro Kit Systems use a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger to produce chilled or heated water. LG’s Split Compact M3 DOAS with Multi V S is suited to light commercial use where single-phase power is available and as an HVAC solution for outdoor air treatment. Easier Access for Technicians  Rheem Manufacturing New equipment at the Rheem Manufacturing booth at AHR Expo includes true multi-zone operation, smaller footprints, lighter weights, and components that are positioned for easy access by technicians. An LED in the control cabinet displays a fault code that identifies the problem to service technicians. The Resolute and Renaissance lines are commercially packaged heat pump units. The company is emphasizing the transition from R-410A to R-454B refrigerant by the end of 2024. Aeroseal Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant Aeroseal seals ducts by spraying a vinyl acetate polymer substance to increase HVAC efficiency. Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant, and a 30% tax deduction is available through the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).  Airzone Airzone is a Spanish company that controls inverters and VRFs (variable refrigerant flow units). Their communication gateway controller incorporates protocols from various manufacturers, and the Easyzone is an easy-to-install zoning system.  Infinitum Infinitum manufactures a motor system that leverages a printed circuit board as a stator, making the motor system lighter weight and also smaller, quieter, and more efficient. The Aircore EC uses a standard printed circuit board manufacturing process to eliminate bearings. The component is used in blowers by OEMs Lau, Acme, Canarm, and Peerless, whose products are displayed at the booth.  Bell & Gossett Bell & Gossett debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve sustainability Bell & Gossett, a Xylem brand, debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve the sustainability of commercial buildings and reduce complexity in the design process. Combining pumps and smart motors are the e-1510 end-suction pump, e-80 vertical in-line pump, and TECHNOFORCE e-HV packaged booster system.  NIBCO Simplifying the job of an HVAC installer is the PressACR copper press connection system from NIBCO, which connects copper pipes without brazing, which involves soldering and high temperatures, thus a fire hazard. The patent-pending groove design and crimp pattern support the higher-pressure requirement of an HVACR system. Pipes are pressed together using PressACR jaws and adapter jaws in a variety of sizes. NIBCO also displayed its Webstone brand of residential and commercial valves.  Control Products Provide Data  Resideo Resideo displayed home system products, including the Honeywell Home T10+ thermostat with RedLINK 3.0; sensors enable temperature balancing for hot and cold spots. Pro-IQ Services provides software tools designed for the connected home, including insights on heating, cooling, water, and indoor air quality devices to help contractors track customers. Professional-grade water damage prevention, the First Alert L2 WiFi Water Sensor and Switch provide alarms if there is a water leak.  Schneider Electric The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management Schneider Electric seeks to be “digital partners for our customers,” working with Fortune 500 companies seeking to achieve ESG (environment, social and corporate governance) goals. They help customers establish where they are currently vis-à-vis their goals and then deploy science-based key performance indicators (KPIs) to direct them to where they want to be. The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management, including two products for the small and medium building (SMB) market. Energy measurement Schneider measures energy usage through power meters, indoor air quality, and energy spent to achieve efficiency, compiling data according to what the customer wants to achieve. They sell through a national sales team, direct branch business (20 branches), and 200 system integrators (EcoXperts). Their customers include QSR (quick-service restaurant chains) that control climate centrally with data compiled in the cloud.  Siemens Siemens displays solutions for smart, adaptable buildings for a sustainable tomorrow, including the Building X system and the Sustainability Manager application, providing an understanding of a building’s performance and tracking it against sustainability and compliance targets. The Building X Lifecycle Twin tracks operational building performance via a “digital twin,” providing an augmented reality (AR) headset through which one can view equipment with information superimposed on the screen. Uponor  Uponor seeks to leverage the capital cost of heating systems to deliver heating and hot water. They make pipes and connectors and other technologies, including the AuqaPort, which improves water quality and energy savings in domestic hot water (DHW) applications. They seek to future-proof buildings by combining energy efficiency and comfort. Water recirculates and provides hot water on demand using 40% less piping. A “radiant roll-out mat” is preconfigured piping that can be rolled out to simplify installation. 

President Biden’s plan to switch from burning fossil fuels to a reliance on more renewable sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal, could bring the grid to 100% clean electricity (zero net greenhouse gas emissions) by 2035 and put the United States on a path to economywide, net-zero emissions by 2050.  In the built space, this includes replacing traditional, fossil fuel-burning sources of space and water heat with electrically powered alternatives, namely, high-efficiency heat pumps.  air-source heat pumps “It’s simple to replace an air conditioner with an electric heat pump, but air-source heat pumps, even cold climate air-source heat pumps are installed with backup heating for periods when heating demand exceeds their capacity,” says David Budzinski, President, of Global Residential and Light Commercial, Johnson Controls. “When the backup heating source is electricity, right now the system uses inefficient resistance ‘strip’ heat. Embracing hybrid heat pumps that do not use electricity for backup heat can overcome barriers such as increased utility costs and strain on the electric grid as the grid evolves.”  hybrid heat pumps Replacing an air conditioner outdoor unit with a heat pump can be relatively straightforward Budzinski says hybrid heat pumps are critical to the electrification movement, especially for existing homes with air conditioner/furnace systems. Replacing an air conditioner outdoor unit with a heat pump can be relatively straightforward, but replacing a furnace with electric resistance heat often requires electrical service upgrades, and if relied on too heavily for the home’s heating load, will lead to significant increases in utility costs and strain on the electric grid. electrification “Hybrid heat pump systems make scaled beneficial electrification possible now by maximizing the scale of heat pump deployment while breaking down the barriers to electrification,” says Budzinski. “As heat pump technology continues to advance, along with building technology and grid infrastructure more broadly, we see decarbonization as creating new opportunities across all building solutions and service providers to increase their value proposition for customers.”  Hitachi air365 Hybrid heat pump Hitachi mini-VRF heat pump becomes the primary source of heat, homeowners can cut utility costs by up to two-thirds The Hitachi air365 Hybrid heat pump features a Dual Fuel Module that attaches to either an existing or new gas furnace, such as the YORK® YP9C 98% Modulating Gas Furnace and is paired with an external Hitachi Mini VRF heat pump as the primary heating and cooling source. A smart sensor in the dual fuel module monitors outdoor ambient conditions and automatically switches to the furnace if it reaches a temperature where the heat pump cannot efficiently meet the indoor heating demand. Since the Hitachi mini-VRF heat pump becomes the primary source of heat, homeowners can cut utility costs by up to two-thirds compared to conventional heating systems.  Cost-effective and less carbon-intensive As the grid evolves, it may become more cost-effective and less carbon-intensive to use electric resistance for the limited periods where backup heat is needed, says Budzinski. “At that point, the gas burner can be removed and, if necessary, replaced by an air handler with an electric resistance element.” This change can happen at a more opportune time for the homeowner to upgrade their electric panel, such as when additional electric appliances like a water heater, cooktop, electric vehicle charger, rooftop solar, and/or electric storage are installed. Exceeding heat pump capacity Homeowners in colder climates who want to reduce their carbon footprint and utility bills" The existing heat pump outdoor unit can remain in place throughout the process.  “Homeowners in colder climates who want to reduce their carbon footprint and utility bills, but whose heating demands can sometimes exceed heat pump capacity, may benefit from a hybrid heat pump solution,” says Budzinski. Energy-efficient The benefits are especially significant for homeowners with high peak electricity rates. Hybrid systems are extremely energy-efficient reducing site energy use by as much as two-thirds when the heat pump is operational while eliminating inefficient electric resistance backup heating. Ultimately, savings will vary based on the efficiency of the heat pump and the legacy heating system, as well as the climate, operating conditions, and utility rates.  heat pump adoption Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) expanded incentives for high-efficiency HVAC equipment, including the 25C tax credit Currently, many incentives at federal, state, and local levels encourage heat pump adoption and significantly reduce the upfront costs of hybrid heat pump systems. For example, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) expanded incentives for high-efficiency HVAC equipment, including the 25C tax credit. Many electric utilities also offer incentives for customers to install high-efficiency heat pumps, and these incentives can usually be combined with federal and state programs. Climate policies and incentive programs differ from state to state and even city to city, so rebate amounts and qualifications may change depending on the homeowner’s location.  air365 Hybrid dual fuel system The air365 Hybrid dual fuel system provides homeowners remote access using a cloud-based smartphone application. Both the heat pump and the backup furnace are controlled by a single thermostat, and no adaptors are required for third-party device integration. Many modern, connected thermostats monitor both indoor and outdoor temperatures to help the system run efficiently at any given moment to help maintain a comfortable indoor environment at the optimal utility cost and carbon footprint, says Budzinski.  energy savings The energy savings as well as incentives and rebates can significantly offset the upfront costs" For contractors, hybrid heat pumps can increase sales opportunities at the “solution” level. “The energy savings as well as incentives and rebates can significantly offset the upfront costs of the equipment and can make the systems more accessible to a wider population,” says Budzinski. Simple to install “Hybrid systems are often simpler and less time-consuming to install in homes with existing air conditioner/furnace systems.” Contractors who understand a home’s heating load, heat pump operating conditions, utility rates, and available incentives will be well-positioned to sell hybrid heat pump systems, he adds.  optimal efficiency “Homeowners may believe that to realize optimal savings, they will need to completely replace their existing air conditioner/furnace system. Not true," says Budzinski. “In cold climates, a hybrid system offers a great solution to realize optimal efficiency while ensuring optimal comfort and reducing emissions during periods of extreme cold temperatures,” he says.