The AHR Expo returned to Vegas after a forced hiatus in 2021. After two years of uncertainty and a longing to reunite the industry, the event represented an eagerness to return to business drawing 30,678 attendees.

What’s more, the success of the show signals a reignited energy for all things HVACR and the community’s readiness to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead with renewed optimism.

Energy to reignite large-scale events
“There have been some heavy ups and downs across the industry in recent years and, as a community, needed to feel the inspiration that happens when they gather together under one roof.

Attendees were eager to be back in the booths experiencing new products and methods that support their work in the field. It was evident from every corner of the show floor that this industry is bursting with prospects.

Going to AHR matters because you have to see what’s going on out there. People had the opportunity to see so much new.

A total of 1,573 exhibitors spread out over 443,769 sq ft in the Central and North halls, packing the floor with an explosion of innovation and new products. Given the time apart, there was plenty to take in as exhibitors launched new technology, products and ideas that came to life since we last gathered in Orlando.

Back to business in a big way in the Exhibitor’s Booths
Inside the exhibitor booths this year company reps and attendees were busy catching up on lost time. The challenges in the supply chain and other COVID delays have opened the door for new ways of thinking about partnerships.

Innovation sets the course
On Monday afternoon, the show celebrated the 2022 Innovation Award Winners with a private reception. Members from each winning company were invited to share food and drink and be among industry cohorts also being recognized as leaders in shaping the future of HVACR.

Education Program brings something for everyone
In the Education Program, attendees were invited to sit in on more than 80 free sessions, covering topics from a range of industry experts. Added to the roster this year was an industry panel discussion led by leaders representing all sectors of the industry, including Mick Schwedler, President of ASHRAE; Stephen Yurek, President and CEO of Air Conditioning Heating Refrigeration Institute (AHRI); Talbot Gee, CEO of Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Distributors (HARDI); Roberta MacGillivray, President of National Air Filtration Association (NAFA); and Dominick Guarino, CEO of National Comfort Institute (NCI).

The panel was moderated by industry podcaster and well-known training advocate Bryan Orr, of HVAC School for Techs by Techs. The panel included a discussion of the current state of HVACR as well as threats and opportunities as we recalibrate to a new normal post-pandemic.

Strength in community
Perhaps one of the most inspiring sentiments shared throughout the floor this year was the sense of community that HVACR embraces. Many of the industry’s workforce remained on the front lines throughout the pandemic and relied on the daily connection with professionals through social media and other points of communication. There was an overwhelming sense of relief and contentment to be gathering again face to face at the industry’s largest event.

Until we meet again
AHR Expo will head back to Atlanta for the 2023 show, bringing with it the positive energy established in Vegas. Eager exhibitors have already reserved booths and discussions of travel plans among attendees are underway. It’s safe to say we are back to business!

The show has been hosting for many years and while it is always a great showing of our industry, this year felt like a new chapter for HVACR. They are a strong community and they now have the attention this industry deserves to thrive on the global stage.”

“Organizer look forward to hosting many of their international attendees who couldn’t make it this year because of travel restrictions and supply chain issues. They have big problems to solve and hefty aspirations to meet as their industry touches literally every part of society and their everyday lives.

The success of the 2022 AHR Expo is proof that they are poised to take on anything together. They are all excited to be a part of such a vibrant community and they look forward to planning a stellar show for you in Atlanta. They will see you soon!”

The 2023 AHR Expo will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. Registration will open in summer 2022.