The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is often viewed as slow-moving and change-resistant.
From a mechanical perspective, the technology looks a lot as it did 50 years ago. Standard systems still rely on the same fundamental vapor-compression cycles and ductwork configurations that have defined the industry for decades.
However, below the surface, new technologies, regulations, and sustainability mandates are transforming climate control solutions.
As a result, facility management methods that were cutting-edge just a few years ago are quickly becoming obsolete.
Here are three HVAC trends that will define facility management in 2026 and will help operators stay compliant, efficient, and competitive.
1. The Rise of Comprehensive Energy Management Systems
We are seeing a shift toward Energy Management Systems (EMS) that serve as comprehensive platforms for managing a building’s energy use.
Last year, the global EMS market barely exceeded $53 billion. By 2030, the market is expected to reach $112 billion, more than doubling over the next half-decade. In the US, the market has significant room to run.
According to ACEEE’s analysis of U.S. commercial buildings, 70% of medium-sized commercial buildings lack an EMS, and 85% of small commercial buildings still need this technology upgrade.
Integrating multiple, disparate systems allows facility managers to view the entire building’s footprint holistically, leading to smarter decisions to reduce waste, like running climate control or lighting systems in empty spaces, and lower operational costs.
When coupled with Building Automation Systems (BAS), building operators have never had more control over their buildings’ operations, unlocking everything from system efficiency gains to more preventive maintenance schedules.
2. The HFC Refrigerant Phase Down
A major trend for 2026 is the refrigerant transition to the new HFC phase-down.
Many older pieces of equipment use refrigerants that are no longer allowed under evolving EPA standards. This creates compliance and logistical challenges for building operators.
Older refrigerants will become harder to find as the EPA continues to restrict production and import allowances under the AIM Act, and the prices for those refrigerants will increase. Meanwhile, equipment that relies on these refrigerants will become more expensive to maintain.
We advise building owners or facility managers to be proactive. Don’t get caught out of compliance or in a costly short-term upgrade cycle.
Proactive adoption helps you avoid competing for equipment availability and a limited technical workforce.
3. AI-Assisted Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the HVAC sector by enhancing operational efficiency and diagnostics.
For example, we use AI to optimize routes, perform advanced scheduling, and analyze real-time performance data to identify subtle inefficiencies before they lead to system failure.
Additionally, AI is changing the repair process, making predictive maintenance more accurate, proactive, and cost-effective than traditional calendar-based service models. Companies are now developing language-learning models focused on diagnosing equipment and reading extensive manuals.
Navigating these dense materials is neither efficient nor effective. AI is turning these documents into interactive tools that technicians can query and use to find solutions faster in the field.
Not Standing Still
The HVAC industry isn’t standing still in 2026. It’s moving toward smarter, cleaner, faster operations that will deliver better results for you!
Don’t let your facility fall behind. Thermal Concepts has the tools and expertise to bring these 2026 innovations to your building today.
Contact us now to schedule your facility assessment.
