The HVAC/R industry crossed a line without much debate. Smart HVAC privacy wasn't on the agenda when connected thermostats and cloud-based controllers became standard. The focus was efficiency, remote access, and fewer callbacks. But modern systems don't just control temperature. They collect data. Occupancy patterns, schedules, runtime behavior, user access logs. The equipment … [Read more...] about Smart HVAC/R Systems: Convenience or Creepy?
Industry News
AI for Distributors: Supporting the Entire Sales Team
The conversation around this approach has moved past the question of whether to adopt it. The real question now is how to deploy AI for distributors in a way that actually supports the people doing the work. Too many solutions focus on one slice of the sales process while ignoring the rest. That approach creates silos, not scale. Jason Sullivan is the Founder and CEO of … [Read more...] about AI for Distributors: Supporting the Entire Sales Team
Visual Workplace Doubles Revenue with Multi-Channel Transformation
ALPHARETTA, Ga., Jan. 08, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Forward Solutions today released a new case study showcasing how embracing a multi-channel sales and marketing strategy can deliver breakthrough growth for industrial manufacturers. With business buyers now expecting a seamless experience across distributor, direct, and digital channels, many mid-market manufacturers are … [Read more...] about Visual Workplace Doubles Revenue with Multi-Channel Transformation
Helios Bets on AI Diagnostics with Nationwide Bluon Rollout
Commercial service organizations are watching AI tools closely, trying to figure out which ones actually deliver results in the field. Helios HVACR, a nationwide commercial service provider operating in more than 40 states, just made a significant move by deploying Bluon's HVACR AI diagnostics platform across its entire field operation. The goal is straightforward: faster … [Read more...] about Helios Bets on AI Diagnostics with Nationwide Bluon Rollout
Cooperative Supplier Networks: The Future of HVACR Sourcing
Bob Allomong is describing something the industry talks about but rarely executes: cooperative supplier networks built on genuine alignment rather than forced partnerships. His perspective sits at the intersection of manufacturers, distributors, and contractors, where integration challenges play out in real time. In this piece, he makes the case for cooperative supplier … [Read more...] about Cooperative Supplier Networks: The Future of HVACR Sourcing
HVAC Market Slowdown Signals a Prolonged Industry Reset
The HVAC market slowdown is no longer a matter of debate or selective interpretation. Fourth-quarter performance came in worse than already lowered expectations, pricing pressure is beginning to surface in markets that historically hold firm, and inventory normalization remains unfinished. This isn't a collapse scenario, but it is a clear signal that the industry reset is … [Read more...] about HVAC Market Slowdown Signals a Prolonged Industry Reset
Heather Ripley Launches Updated Next Level Now Book for Home Services Growth
Heather Ripley has released an updated edition of her book, Next Level Now, at a time when brand perception plays an increasingly central role in how home service companies compete. Every contractor builds a brand, whether intentionally or by default, yet many businesses leave that process to chance through benign neglect rather than strategy. The Next Level Now book … [Read more...] about Heather Ripley Launches Updated Next Level Now Book for Home Services Growth
