Industry News

Trane, American Standard, and Workiz forge ahead with future integrations, empowering small to midsize HVAC companies enabling their business growth

Workiz, the leading provider of field service management (FSM) solutions, announced today a new collaboration with Trane and American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning. The two brands account for a large share of the residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. This strategic relationship marks another significant milestone for Workiz as it continues to grow its market share in the home services space and underscores its commitment to advancing the HVAC business landscape specifically.

Trane and American Standard, brands of Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator, specialize in cutting-edge HVAC systems and controls, with Trane being named America’s Most Trusted Residential HVAC Brand for the 11^th consecutive year by Lifestory Research. Through the collaboration with Trane and American Standard, Workiz aims to empower HVAC contractors with an innovative FSM platform supporting streamlined and easier operations to help support contractors’ business growth.

Trusted by over 120,000 service professionals, Workiz consistently earns the top spot on Forbes lists, G2 and other preferred software review sites, for ease of use, implementation, user adoption, and customer satisfaction. Workiz presents cutting-edge technology and provides industry-unique tools, including an AI-powered communication suite, advanced reporting and data analytics solutions, and a robust automation engine to streamline operational and commercial workflows. The integration of the Workiz price book and equipment tracking solutions presents a comprehensive solution tailored to the unique needs of contractors. Designed for small to midsize businesses, Workiz offers a tailored package for HVAC contractors purchasing equipment through the platform.

“With its easy-to-use platform, Workiz offers our dealers an excellent FSM option. We look forward to collaborating with Workiz through future integrations that will bring further simplification to many of the tasks our dealers have to do day in and day out,” says Mary Beth Kime, Strategic Partnerships Leader at Trane Technologies.

The collaboration between Trane, American Standard, and the Workiz platform will offer far-reaching benefits beyond simplifying the ordering process, ensuring a seamless experience, from delivering immediate insight into contractor inventory status, equipment ordering requirements alongside crucial data on equipment availability, pricing, shipment details, acquiring parts from industry leaders and more. In the long run, the collaboration promises to enhance the industry, offering HVAC professionals greater access to the SaaS platform and equipment, along with valuable discounts.

“This collaboration with Trane and American Standard represents a significant leap forward for Workiz and the HVAC industry. We are honored to be chosen to collaborate with Trane and American Standard, reflecting our dedication to providing the most advanced and user-friendly solutions for HVAC businesses,” said Didi Azaria, CEO at Workiz.

As Workiz invests in the future, the company is set to launch a suite of AI features that will further revolutionize the HVAC industry. The partnership with Trane and American Standard signifies a shared commitment to innovation and convenience.

Welcome to the future of HVAC business management with Workiz – where innovation meets simplicity, transforming how HVAC contractors operate and thrive.

Bemis will showcase innovative products and participate in expert-led panels, reinforcing its position as a category leader

Bemis, a leading manufacturer of quality, innovative bathroom products, today announced its upcoming appearance at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design. During the Feb. 25-27 convention, Bemis will exhibit its upcoming products, including the new Universal Fit™ toilet seat, Empower with Clean Care System and the Bemis Living App.

Empower with Clean Care System

Attracting industry professionals and design enthusiasts alike, KBIS showcases the latest trends, cutting-edge products and breakthrough technologies in kitchen and bath design. Bemis will use this key opportunity to introduce the Universal Fit™ toilet seat — a newly designed seat that will accommodate both round and elongated toilet bowls, saving professionals time and money in inventory, and ensuring they have a toilet seat for the job. Bemis will also highlight the recently launched Empower product, which provides independence to those with limited mobility via the innovative Clean Care system.  The exclusive technology provides thorough and consistent perineal cleansing, reducing caregiver burden in settings where toileting assistance is frequent.

The Bemis Living App will also be showcased, offering bidet users a streamlined experience with a high level of customization via their smartphone.  Users can activate their preferred settings including water temperature, pressure, nozzle position, wash duration, and more with the simple push of a button.  Additionally, Bemis will display its innovative range of products, such as the Haven series bidets, potty training seats, and showroom toilet seats during the convention. Bemis products will also be represented in NKBA panel discussions, supporting Bemis’ expertise in bathroom independence.

Universal Toilet Seat

“KBIS provides a dynamic platform where creativity meets functionality — two qualities Bemis prides itself on, especially with the launch of our Universal Fit™toilet seat,” said TJ Stiefvater, vice president of marketing at Bemis. “We up the ante every time we exhibit at KBIS, and look forward to sharing our insights and showcasing our strongest booth yet of lifestyle vignettes and functional products to attendees who are passionate about transforming their bathroom spaces.”

To learn more about Bemis and its products, please visit the team during KBIS at the Las Vegas Convention Center at booth #N2963.

Efforts in Cutting-Edge Technology, Workforce Development Initiatives and Accessible Energy-Efficient Solutions Take Center Stage in Orlando

As demand for high-efficiency, electrified heating solutions grows in North America, Midea continues to lead innovation in heat pump technology and is focusing on making these solutions more accessible and easier to adopt. Midea continues to demonstrate its global leadership in HVAC innovation and left a lasting impression at AHR Expo 2025 by hosting an inspiring panel on “Heat Pump Trends & Commercialization.” Midea also received Intertek’s first Global CVP Compliance Certificate for Air Conditioners.

(Pictured left to right are Clifton Beck, Digital Media Manager and Podcast Host, ESCO Institute; Carl Bloomfield, Intertek Global Quality and Accreditation Vice President; Rick Huddle, Resource Innovations Utility Consultant and Heat Pump Researcher; Phil Huang, Head of Midea RAC North America; and David Rames, Senior Product Manager, Midea America Corp.)

Heat Pump Trends & Commercialization Panel

On the first day of the show, Midea hosted industry leaders from Intertek, ESCO Group and Resource Innovations in a compelling panel discussion of heat pump trends and the issues and opportunities for commercialization. The panel explored the future of heat pump adoption and regulatory challenges and underscored the growing role of policy, incentives and industry collaboration in scaling heat pump adoption. Held in front of a full audience of contractors, distributors and media, the panel reinforced Midea’s commitment to playing a leadership role in the industry and making high-performance systems accessible and practical for contractors and homeowners alike.

After participating with Intertek in the panel discussion about heat pump commercialization requirements, Midea was honored with Intertek’s first Global CVP Compliance Certificate for Air Conditioners. Midea’s EVOX All Climate Heat Pump* is considered one of the best heat pumps in the industry, setting new benchmarks in extreme climate performance and ease of installation. As a result, Phil Huang, head of Midea RAC North America, accepted the Intertek award on Midea’s behalf, stating, “This recognition reflects our dedication to innovation and our mission to make energy-efficient technology accessible to all.”

AHR Expo Highlights: Showcasing Cutting-Edge HVAC Solutions

Midea’s booth at AHR Expo 2025 featured the brand’s latest heat pump innovations, focusing on energy efficiency, reliability and ease of installation. Midea’s heat pump solutions serve a wide range of applications—from the Packaged Window Heat Pump (PWHP), designed for multi-family buildings and urban retrofits, to the Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH), an energy-efficient alternative for residential water heating. These solutions are built to enhance performance in a variety of climates while reducing energy costs for homeowners and businesses alike. Attendees were introduced to a variety of advanced solutions:

• EVOX All Climate Heat Pump system: Engineered for all climates, this system features Enhanced Vapor Injection (EVI) technology, delivering up to 100% heating output at -31°F/-35°C and continuous operation down to -40°F/-40°C and up to 100% cooling output at 140°F/60°C and continuous operation up to 149°F/65°C. The complementary modular Midea EVOX G³ block-n-lock air handler unit (AHU) is designed with contractors and customers in mind with simplified installation, and a SEER2 rating of up to 19, delivering year-round energy savings.
• Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH): Adopting inverter technology and source air to produce domestic hot water is a major key to increased energy efficiency, and with a 400% efficiency rating, the Midea HPWH can save homeowners up to 75% on energy costs. It provides up to 91 gallons of hot water in the first hour, operates quietly (45 dBA), and is eligible for most U.S. and Canadian rebate programs (rebates vary depending on state/region).
• Packaged Window Heat Pump (PWHP): Ideal for multi-family and multi-zone buildings, the Midea PWHP offers compact, efficient heating and cooling. It provides 100% heating at 5°F, operates at temperatures as low as -13°F. It is also a key part of New York State’s Clean Heat for All Challenge and the State’s decarbonization and energy efficiency targets and goal of making modern heat pump technology more accessible – one of Midea’s core missions.
• Multi-Zone Systems: Offering flexible heating and cooling for up to six zones, these heat pump systems include great options including the IN One-Way Cassette and All Easy Pro high wall split. These units are ideal for homes where temperature control in individual rooms is desired. They achieve SEER2 ratings of up to 25 and operate efficiently across a wide temperature range (-22°F to 122°F).

Midea’s innovations reflect a customer-first approach, ensuring that homeowners and contractors have access to solutions that simplify installation while delivering long-term energy savings. Each showcased product, from central ducted heat pumps to compact multi-zone systems, was designed with efficiency, adaptability and user convenience in mind.

AHR Expo Workforce Development Panel and New Product Theater Presentation

On the second day of the Expo, David Rames delivered a compelling presentation on “Revolutionizing HVAC: The EVOX G³ Heat Pump System.” He detailed the product’s superior performance, energy efficiency and contractor-friendly features. Rames emphasized how the EVOX G³ system simplifies installations while providing reliable heating in any climate and helping homeowners reduce their energy consumption and operational costs. The talk also underscored the importance of collaboration between manufacturers, regulators and industry leaders to drive mainstream heat pump adoption. As one of the key contributors, Midea shared insights on balancing product innovation with evolving market demands and policy incentives.

Educational Programming: Empowering the HVAC Workforce

Midea also reinforced its commitment to education and workforce development at the AHR Expo. This year, Midea hosted numerous training sessions and discussed its collaboration with numerous trade schools across North America and efforts in providing both contractors and students with hands-on experience in advanced heat pump technology. As part of this initiative, Midea has donated HVAC units and other equipment to Orange Technical College in Orlando to support hands-on training for its trade students. This donation underscores Midea’s dedication to fostering talent and building the future of the industry.

On the final day of the show, Midea hosted local trade school students for a tour of the booth. David Rames also participated on the AHR Expo-hosted Workforce Development Panel, where he and other industry leaders discussed the importance of preparing the next generation of HVAC professionals. Beyond the classroom, Midea continues to partner with contractors, influencers and media outlets to expand industry knowledge, raise awareness of the benefits of today’s innovative heat pump technology, and foster greater adoption of energy-efficient HVAC solutions. Midea is committed to strengthening the HVAC workforce by investing in hands-on education and technical training. These initiatives help bridge the skills gap, ensuring that the next generation of professionals is equipped to install and maintain advanced heat pump systems.

(David Rames speaking with Orange Technical College students)

Consumer-Focused Benefits: Making Energy Efficiency Accessible

Midea is committed to making energy-efficient solutions accessible to more homeowners and participated in numerous meetings with key stakeholders, including the Consortium for Energy Efficiency, utilities and other leading organizations committed to the commercialization of advanced heat pump technologies. Midea continues to drive its product designs to help reduce energy bills and provide reliable performance in all climates. In addition, the company continues to work with utilities and municipalities to help ensure that consumers who purchase their products can be eligible for regional and federal incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act and Canada’s Greener Homes Grant.

Looking Ahead: Midea’s Vision for HVAC Innovation

Midea’s success at AHR Expo 2025 reflects its dedication to advancing energy-efficient HVAC solutions and supporting its stakeholders’ decarbonization goals. As the company’s engineering team in Louisville, KY, continues to invest in R&D, Midea remains focused on developing technologies that integrate seamlessly into everyday life, from smart connectivity features to solutions that enhance comfort and reduce energy consumption. Beyond product innovation, Midea is committed to workforce development and industry education, partnering with trade schools across the country to promote heat pump applications. The company plans to expand these efforts through collaboration with industry institutions, utilities, contractors and educational programs to raise awareness, provide installation training and equip professionals and consumers with the knowledge to adopt high-efficiency heating and cooling solutions. As Midea looks ahead, the company remains dedicated to developing breakthrough technologies, expanding workforce training initiatives and driving consumer education—ensuring that heat pump adoption continues to grow across North America.

Contractors and companies that are interested in becoming a Midea heat pump distributor or consumers seeking to upgrade to Midea’s heating and cooling solutions should call 1-888-MIDEA-NA (1-888-643-3262). For more information, visit www.mideacomfort.us.

Atlanta—Celebrating a century of excellence, innovation, and ingenuity, Rheem®, a leader in the water heating and HVAC/R industry, with manufacturing facilities in 88 countries, will showcase the culmination of 100 years of engineering at the 2025 AHR Expo. Rheem’s family of 50 global brands — including Rheem Heating & Cooling, Rheem Water Heating, Eemax®, Friedrich®, HTPG®, IBC™, Nordyne®, and Raypak® — will present a range of dependable, cutting-edge, and environmentally friendly product options designed for commercial and residential use.