Industry News

Danfoss will highlight its latest innovations and broad portfolio of solutions for the HVAC/R industry at the annual AHR Expo, February 10-12 in Orlando, Fla. At booth #1301, visitors can discover how Danfoss can help their customers reach decarbonization goals under the theme, “Transition Forward.” With an expected 50,000 attendees and 1,800 exhibitors, the premier Read more

Danfoss will highlight its latest innovations and broad portfolio of solutions for the HVAC/R industry at the annual AHR Expo, February 10-12 in Orlando, Fla. At booth #1301, visitors can discover how Danfoss can help their customers reach decarbonization goals under the theme, “Transition Forward.” With an expected 50,000 attendees and 1,800 exhibitors, the premier annual event for the HVAC/R industry provides an invaluable opportunity to showcase the company’s technologies that enable customers to build heat pumps, data centers, rooftop units, Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS), chillers and refrigeration systems that reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption.

Reflecting the growing push toward decarbonization and Danfoss’ ESG goal of becoming their customers’ preferred partner to help meet their decarbonization goals, Danfoss HVAC/R solutions offer sustainable solutions to end users looking to reduce their carbon footprint along with their energy and maintenance expenses.

The BOCK HGX56 CO2 T compressor, VZH-VI variable speed scroll compressor with injection, and EKE110 controller will be on display at the Danfoss booth, #1301, at AHR Expo.

On display will be the newest technologies, including:

  • VZH VI variable speed compressor range with injection
  • The latest Turbocor® oil-free and magnetic bearing compressors
  • Danfoss’ CO2 solutions for food retail
  • X-Gate gateway solution for integrating multiple devices into building management systems
  • The Danfoss Advanced Active Filter AAF 007, now expanded to 100/150A module, for higher efficiency in harmonics
  • MyDrive® Harmonics software solution for mitigating harmonic distortions in HVAC systems
  • EHW194 hose for data center cooling systems

Also on display will be the new BOCK HGX56 COT compressor, winner of the Expo’s Innovation Award in the Refrigeration category. The latest Danfoss innovation for sustainable refrigeration, the HGX56 CO2 T is a transcritical semi-hermetic CO2 (R744) compressor, ideal for industrial refrigeration, cold storage, ice sports facilities and heat pumps, including process and district heating applications. The expansion to 6-cylinder capacity allows for a wider spread and faster uptake of large CO2 heat pumps and industrial refrigeration systems, along with lower system complexity and investment costs. As an award category winner, the HGX56 CO2 T compressor is a finalist for Product of the Year, which will be announced at the Expo.

Visitors to the Danfoss booth will also be able to see demonstrations of Alsense and Alsmart HVAC/R automation solutions, the VLT® HVAC FC 102 Drive NEMA 4X, condition-based monitoring (CBM), TurbocorCloud® software, and more.

AHR Expo will mark the start of the celebration of the 30th anniversary of Danfoss Turbocor. Founded in 1995 in Australia by a group of engineers and later acquired by Danfoss as a wholly owned company, the pioneer in oil-free compressor technology has grown to 350 employees with operation centers in the U.S., Denmark and China. Over 140,000 Turbocor compressors have been installed globally as more customers seek to lower their carbon emissions and energy consumption.

“Danfoss is set to showcase its cutting-edge innovations in decarbonization and energy efficiency at the AHR Expo,” said Vikas Anand, vice president of sales for North America at Danfoss Climate Solutions. “Our primary focus is to support our customers on their decarbonization journey and transition to low-GWP refrigerants. Expo attendees will have the opportunity to explore our extensive range of HVAC/R solutions that are driving the industry toward a more sustainable & energy efficient future.”

“At Danfoss, we are committed to providing reliable and innovative solutions that address current challenges and future opportunities,” said Hannes Leichtfried, vice president of sales and marketing for North America at Danfoss Drives. “Our U.S.-based production ensures localized support and high-quality products that maximize energy efficiency and decarbonization. This local presence, combined with our global expertise, helps our customers achieve their sustainability goals while navigating market complexities.”

The business training and coaching experts energized contractors and industry leaders to take on the new year to conquer new challenges Business Development Resources (BDR), the training and business coaching authority for home services industry professionals, provided over 300 industry leaders the opportunity to climb higher and build connections at this year’s SPARK, the ultimate event for Read more

The business training and coaching experts energized contractors and industry leaders to take on the new year to conquer new challenges

Business Development Resources (BDR), the training and business coaching authority for home services industry professionals, provided over 300 industry leaders the opportunity to climb higher and build connections at this year’s SPARK, the ultimate event for contractors.

Held Jan. 15-18 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, SPARK 2025 provided attendees with a diverse range of informative breakout sessions, inspirational keynote talks, and endless opportunities to network alongside top contractors in the industry. SPARK aims to share, promote, accelerate, revamp, and kickstart growth for home service providers’ vision, team, and business in the coming months.

“Each year, SPARK succeeds in sending our attendees into the new year with renewed enthusiasm and actionable plans for their business,” said BDR President Kim Archer. “Our conference’s main purpose has always been to help professionals in our industry make meaningful connections. Every year, SPARK attendees amaze and inspire me with their incredible collaboration and unstoppable networking energy!”

Highlights of SPARK 2025 included:

  • Dynamic keynote sessions led by Kyle Scheele, known as “the patron saint of crazy ideas,” and Ben Nemtin, the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of “What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?” and “The Bucket List Journal.”
  • Various power-packed breakout sessions covered a wide range of game-changing topics—mastering data to scale your business, fostering a culture of innovation, refining marketing channels, and leading with efficiency to drive unstoppable sales growth.
  • Networking activities included tours of Garden of Gods Park, walking downtown Colorado Springs, Broadmoor cooking demonstrations, a pickleball tournament, power-up training sessions, and so much more!

SPARK sets to ignite the home service industry with its highly anticipated return in January 2026, heading to the Omni Amelia Island Resort and Spa in Florida. As with the 2025 event, attendees can expect impactful keynote sessions, exclusive workshops, and expert-led discussions to deliver actionable insights and tools for their business’s growth. With Amelia Island’s pristine beaches, historic downtown, and vibrant Southern hospitality as the backdrop, this event promises to be a must-attend for those ready to elevate their businesses.

Early registration is now open at https://www.bdrco.com/spark.

For more information about BDR events, visit https://www.bdrco.com/upcoming-bdr-events/.

Company’s second “Smart Home Data Privacy” survey of 2,000 U.S. homeowners shows increase in smart home tech usage, decreases in confidence about data privacy Copeland, a global provider of sustainable climate solutions, announced today the findings from its second ‘Smart Home Data Privacy’ survey which aimed to determine how both smart thermostat users and non-users Read more

Company’s second “Smart Home Data Privacy” survey of 2,000 U.S. homeowners shows increase in smart home tech usage, decreases in confidence about data privacy

Copeland, a global provider of sustainable climate solutions, announced today the findings from its second ‘Smart Home Data Privacy’ survey which aimed to determine how both smart thermostat users and non-users feel about data privacy and the security of their smart home products. While ownership of smart home devices – including smart thermostats, TVs and appliances – are significantly higher than when the study was first commissioned in 2022, homeowners were also more likely to be concerned about data privacy in 2024.

“As we can see by the rise in ownership of smart home products, homeowners are increasingly looking for convenient ways to automate their lives and expand control over their home environments to save on energy costs,” said Lisa Plaggemier, Executive Director of the National Cybersecurity Alliance. “But what’s most concerning is that more than half of homeowners don’t understand how data from their smart thermostat is collected and used – particularly as AI becomes nearly ubiquitous. This should be a resounding call for transparency among smart tech manufacturers.”

While the study shows that homeowners with smart home devices are more concerned than ever about the security of their data (27 percent in 2024 versus 23 percent in 2022), their understanding of and attitudes toward smart tech and data privacy show a critical gap:

  • More than half of homeowners (52 percent) don’t have any idea of how data is collected from smart thermostats.
  • Homeowners who don’t own a smart thermostat are less likely to be confident that manufacturers use their customers’ data responsibly compared to those who own a smart thermostat (58 percent versus 73 percent), which could be evidence of a barrier to purchase.
  • Only 14 percent of homeowners who owned smart thermostats said they researched a manufacturer’s data privacy policy before purchasing a smart thermostat.

And yet, seven out of 10 homeowners are willing to replace their thermostat with one that provides more privacy, with millennials more willing (80%) than other groups.

As a leading innovator in the HVAC industry and the company behind the top-rated Sensi thermostat platform, Copeland was one of the first manufacturers to create a formal privacy pledge in 2022 and has since been a leader in protecting its users’ personal data, never using smart thermostat activity for targeting or advertising purposes. The company has also never sold a user’s personal data to anyone and does not make changes to thermostat settings based on usage assumptions.

“There’s always a role for data, particularly as it relates to a homeowner’s ability to optimize their home comfort and gain energy savings in the process, but those settings are theirs and theirs alone,” said Brendan O’Toole, vice president, smart home and energy management for Copeland. “As demand for smart home products continues to rise, it’s imperative for manufacturers to adequately disclose their privacy policies and educate consumers about the importance of data security,”

For more information about how Copeland’s lineup of Sensi smart thermostats respects and protects consumer privacy and to download the full report, visit sensi.copeland.com/dataprivacy.

The Elvari® Washroom Accessories Collection by Bradley Company, innovator of commercial restroom products for more than 100 years, has received the prominent 2024 GOOD DESIGN® Award. The internationally recognized award is presented by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design in cooperation with the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. The Elvari Accessories Collection earned a winning designation in GOOD DESIGN’s Read more

The Elvari® Washroom Accessories Collection by Bradley Company, innovator of commercial restroom products for more than 100 years, has received the prominent 2024 GOOD DESIGN® Award. The internationally recognized award is presented by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design in cooperation with the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. The Elvari Accessories Collection earned a winning designation in GOOD DESIGN’s Bath/Accessories category.

Elvari Washroom Accessories elevate the look of today’s commercial washrooms by creating an elegant and unified aesthetic while maximizing user functionality. Offering the widest selection of washroom accessories available, such as soap and paper towel dispensers, grab bars, mirrors and more, Elvari accessories feature a common euro style pill-shaped design with smooth curves and soft edges. When specified throughout a washroom, the Elvari collection delivers the perfect blend of symmetry and harmony to integrate spaces.

GOOD DESIGN is renowned as the world’s most prestigious and oldest product design award program. Founded in 1950 by architects Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Edgar Kaufmann Jr., GOOD DESIGN recognizes outstanding product design, innovation and sustainability among new consumer products designed and manufactured in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America.

“Bradley is thrilled to have won the prestigious 2024 GOOD DESIGN Award for Elvari Washroom Accessories,” said Jon Dommisse, vice president, business development & strategy, Bradley Company. “Two hallmarks of good restroom design are high aesthetic appeal and functionality. The cohesive collection of Elvari accessories scores high on both counts.”

“Elvari’s minimalist and harmonious design will enhance any commercial setting, such as boutique hotels, high-end retail stores, upscale restaurants or corporate offices. Designers no longer have to settle for industrial and institutional looking washroom accessories.”

Design features enhance maintenance and usability

To expand designers’ visions for restroom design and increase flexibility, Elvari accessories are available in multiple brushed finishes, including Black, Nickel, Stainless, Brass, Bronze and Satin Stainless. These resilient finishes are easy to clean and fingerprint- and corrosion-resistant for long-lasting beauty.

Additional maintenance enhancing technology, such as reliable touch-free operation, refill indicators, and anti-jam features keep Elvari accessories running smoothly and ensure they are well-stocked for continuous usage. Models are available in many sizes, capacities and mounting styles to fit the needs of any restroom.

In addition to GOOD DESIGN, the Elvari Collection has been recognized with seven other product design awards.

For more information, visit https://www.bradleycorp.com/elvari-washroom-accessories and https://www.chi-athenaeum.org/.

Plumbline Services, a Wrench Group company, is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 “Christmas On Us” program. Ten extraordinary individuals, selected from over 174 nominations, have been recognized for their resilience, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Now in its ninth year, the “Christmas On Us” program invites Denver-area residents to nominate a deserving Read more

Plumbline Services, a Wrench Group company, is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 “Christmas On Us” program. Ten extraordinary individuals, selected from over 174 nominations, have been recognized for their resilience, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to their communities.

Now in its ninth year, the “Christmas On Us” program invites Denver-area residents to nominate a deserving family and/or individual to receive an $1,000 award to help make their holiday season brighter. The program highlights families and/or individuals facing financial or personal challenges who, despite their own struggles, continue to give back to others. These recipients are selected for their commitment to improving the lives of those around them, even when they themselves could use a hand.

The ten chosen nominees each received $1,000 to help make this past Christmas special. Plumbline wanted to reward the winners for their acts of courage, kindness, and generosity, as they have touched the hearts of many, embodying the true spirit of the season. These are the 10 inspiring recipients of the 2024 “Christmas On Us” program:

Jessica D
Jessica has selflessly devoted her time to caring for a sick in-law, while also volunteering at local homeless and animal shelters. Despite facing her own challenges, including the recent loss of her support dog in an accident, she continues to give with unwavering compassion. Her resilience and generosity truly embody the spirit of giving.

Alyssa S
A proud veteran, Alyssa goes above and beyond in her community, volunteering for various activities, including supporting the Cub Scouts. Despite battling systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, she continues to serve with incredible strength and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to others is a true inspiration.

Jessica C
Jessica and her fiancé have selflessly opened their hearts and home to three beautiful children, taking them in from a family unable to provide them with the care they deserve. Despite each child being born with drugs in their system, Jessica and her fiancé have embraced the challenging yet rewarding journey of adoption with unwavering dedication. Becoming first-time parents within just 72 hours was unexpected, but they’ve adapted with love and resilience every step of the way.

Amber K
Amber has dedicated her time and energy to creating magical Halloween displays and organizing “Letters to Santa” events, all to spread joy throughout her community. She also hosts toy drives and generously gives free gifts to local children. Despite battling breast cancer, Amber continues to give from the heart, expecting nothing in return.

Francisco P
Francisco is a hardworking and proud individual who goes above and beyond for those he cares about. He has raised funds to support friends and family in need and has opened his home to those facing difficult times. With his handyman skills, he lends a helping hand without ever expecting anything in return. Francisco’s relentless dedication to providing for his family and loved ones is a testament to his selflessness and strong character.

Kadin M
Kadin has poured his time and effort into founding Blankies4Buddies, an organization dedicated to providing blankets for families in need. Despite being a full-time student, he has worked tirelessly to grow his cause, and now receives donations from generous supporters across the country, from California to Florida. His passion and commitment to helping others is truly inspiring.

Brittany G
Brittany built the community theater from the ground up, sacrificing countless hours and resources to create a safe, welcoming space where at-risk children, young adults, and adults can truly be themselves. She has dedicated her time to organizing events for the community, all while focusing on rehearsals and supporting those involved in the theater. Her unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and providing a safe haven for others is a remarkable testament to her passion and leadership.

Axel P
Axel dedicates his time to organizing food, coat, and clothing drives, offering vital support to families across the Denver metro area. Throughout the year, he assembles donation bags filled with essential items and personally distributes them to those in need. In addition, Axel has set up a fundraiser at his workplace, donating all of his tips to purchase even more items for families. His efforts have inspired his peers at school to get involved, amplifying the impact of his work.

Donna S
Donna goes above and beyond to support her family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers, providing holiday food baskets, clothing, blankets for the homeless, and essential items for anyone in need. Despite facing the daily challenges of lupus, high blood pressure, and arthritis—with minimal relief from her medications—Donna continues to give selflessly to others. Her unwavering generosity and resilience in the face of personal struggles are truly inspiring.

Andy S
Andy has devoted his life to supporting families, women, and children affected by domestic violence. After the heartbreaking loss of his daughter to domestic violence, he founded the Ally Remembered Foundation to honor her memory. The foundation’s mission is to empower individuals and communities to live free from the devastating impact of domestic violence. If you would like to donate to this cause, click here.

The “Christmas On Us” program is just one of many ways that Plumbline adheres its six core company values of Faith, Ethical, Character, Excellence, Leadership and Stewardship to serve its customers and its communities.