5 HVAC trends influencing architecture and design

As the 2025 trade show season winds down, we’ve been reflecting on key trends and conversations from some of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industry’s biggest events—including AHR Expo 2025, IBS 2025, the National HVACR Education Conference, and the ACCA 2025 Conference & Expo. Midea was proud to participate in each of these gatherings, engaging with architects, contractors, educators, distributors, and decision-makers to better understand the challenges and opportunities shaping our industry.

For design professionals working to balance form, function, sustainability, and compliance, five key HVAC trends emerged this year that should be on every architect’s radar.

1. Simpler installs are a must — especially in retrofits and tight spaces. 

   The HVAC labor shortage remains a major constraint, driving demand for systems that are fast and intuitive to install. For architects, this presents an opportunity to specify equipment that helps contractors succeed — especially on projects with complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) coordination or limited access.

   For example, Midea’s EVOX G3 system was designed with this in mind, including a proprietary modular block-n-lock air handling unit that fits through tight clearances, supports six install configurations, and works across 115V and 208/230V without requiring structural or electrical rewiring. This kind of flexibility makes it easier to align mechanical layouts with architectural intent, especially in renovations, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) or space-constrained urban buildings. 

2. Smart HVAC systems are now the default. 

   Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app control, and predictive diagnostics have become a must in today’s competitive landscape. For architects designing high-performance or smart-certified buildings, HVAC equipment must integrate seamlessly with broader building automation systems. 

   These capabilities are especially relevant in multifamily and residential projects where clients expect tech-forward experiences and long-term energy optimization. For architects, it’s worth asking early in the spec process: Does the system support the digital experience your client is expecting?

3. Compact and ductless systems are in demand — especially in multifamily and retrofit applications

   The rise of urban infill projects, ADUs, and aging housing stock is fueling demand for flexible, low-footprint HVAC solutions that are adaptable for smaller and existing spaces. Architects designing for these scenarios are increasingly turning to ductless and modular systems that minimize architectural disruption.

   Midea’s multi-zone solutions — including ceiling cassettes, high wall splits, and modular air handling units — deliver targeted comfort while preserving ceiling heights, soffit space and aesthetic continuity. These systems are especially effective in projects where historic preservation or structural constraints limit ducting options.

4. Rebates, tax credits — and tariffs — are shaping system selection

   Cost remains a top consideration across residential and light commercial segments. Architects specifying HVAC systems are increasingly tasked with helping clients tap into available incentives — from IRA tax credits to local utility-based programs. Specifying eligible systems can unlock $2,000 or more per home.

   On the flip side, architects should also be aware of shifting tariff policies that could affect equipment pricing in the coming year. While tariffs and macroeconomic factors are outside an architect’s control, partnering with manufacturers that are nimble, transparent, and proactive about pricing and policy is key. We’re continually optimizing our supply chain and designing products that qualify for the broadest array of rebates and credits to help ensure cost transparency and resilience in an uncertain regulatory landscape.

5. All-climate readiness is no longer optional — it’s expected 

   Across every event, one theme was loud and clear: Clients and code officials are expecting consistent, year-round comfort performance — even in extreme climates. Whether designing for northern winters or southern summers, HVAC systems must deliver reliable performance without compromise.

   Heat pumps are leading the charge in this evolution. As electrification codes become more widespread, particularly in the Northeast and West Coast, specifying equipment with verified cold-climate capabilities has moved from a bonus to a design necessity. 

HVAC takes center stage

This year’s trade shows reinforced the fact that HVAC is no longer just a behind-the-walls consideration — it’s central to how buildings perform, adapt, and support sustainability goals.

For architects, these evolving expectations create both design opportunities and new challenges: how to integrate smarter, more flexible, and climate-ready systems into projects without sacrificing design vision or budget.

At Midea, we’re committed to supporting the design community with solutions that simplify MEP coordination, elevate building performance, and meet the needs of today’s electrification policies. Let’s work together to future-proof the built environment—one upgrade at a time. For more information, visit mideacomfort.us.

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