This is an exciting time for the HVAC industry. An emphasis on shrinking HVAC-related carbon footprints has led to many innovations. Those include air-source heat pumps that can remain efficient all winter long, even in Nebraska’s coldest climates when properly designed for cold weather operation. Smart thermostats are smarter than ever, and even the HVAC systems themselves are getting smart features. Let’s explore some of the most notable trends and how they may affect you.
Machine Learning Smart Thermostats
A growing share of U.S. homes now have a smart thermostat, and adoption rates continue to soar. The problem is that most homeowners never update their schedules, which is where the big savings lie. Studies suggest a significant portion of users never fully program them at all.
A machine learning thermostat doesn’t need you to program it. It can establish its own program, often within 72 hours of being activated. It can also monitor your household habits and continue to refine your schedules over time. Households that upgrade can enjoy annual cooling and heating savings of up to around 10%, depending on usage.
Phased-Out Refrigerants
Many of the refrigerants currently used for ACs and heat pumps have a high global warming potential. The federal government, under the AIM Act, has been in the process of phasing them down in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives. Additional restrictions taking effect in the mid-2020s will further limit the production and use of certain refrigerants, such as R-404A, R-448A, and R-449A.
It’s important to note that you can continue using such systems. That said, it’s time to at least begin considering your eventual upgrade. If you need a repair that involves replacing the refrigerant, costs can be high. Your HVAC provider will have access, but a reduced supply can continue to increase the price over time. Upgrading to a modern AC or heat pump could save you money in the years ahead.
Integrated Predictive Maintenance Capabilities
Onboard predictive maintenance has been such a great success in the commercial space, it’s making its way to homes. Systems with the necessary software can monitor their performance moment to moment and establish expected parameters. When performance goes outside those parameters, it can alert you via the thermostat. You can then schedule preventative diagnostics. Industry experts suggest these features can help reduce long-term operating and repair costs over the life of the system.
High-Efficiency Furnaces and Boilers
Among households with standalone furnaces and boilers, the adoption rate of high-efficiency solutions soared in 2025. Industry experts expect the numbers to continue to rise in 2026. Consider that a standard gas furnace is approximately 80% efficient. Condensing furnaces are at least 90% efficient, with some reaching efficiencies in the high-90% range. That’s because they minimize heat losses through the flue. These furnaces can also benefit from modulating gas valves, variable-speed blowers, sealed combustion chambers, and other enhancements.
Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps
Heat pump sales surpassed gas furnace sales in the U.S. in 2023, according to industry data, and that trend is expected to continue. In colder climates, many homeowners are opting for hybrid heating. Also known as a dual-fuel heat pump, this is where you pair an air-source heat pump and a fuel furnace. The heat pump provides the home’s cooling and most of its heating. The auxiliary furnace takes over to maintain efficiency during prolonged freezing weather. This approach does cost more initially, but it can save you significantly over the life of the equipment.
The Federal Heat Pump Rebate
Federal heat pump rebates are expected to become available in more states by 2026. Eligible households may qualify for rebates of up to $8,000, depending on income level and state program availability. In some cases, rebates may be applied at the point of sale, which can ease upfront costs. The industry expects these incentives to help drive the adoption of standalone and dual-fuel heat pumps.
Zone Control Systems
Most homes in the U.S. have central systems, which have many benefits. Still, a key downside is unnecessary heating and cooling in areas of the home you’re not using. An increasingly popular solution to this is HVAC zoning. When properly designed and installed, zoning systems can reduce energy usage by up to 30% and allow for personalized comfort throughout the home.
Your Local HVAC Experts in Southeast Nebraska
Since 1971, our HVAC company has been based in Bellevue, NE. We offer a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. On-site installation consultations are available at no charge and without obligation. During that appointment, we can discuss the latest HVAC trends and what you can do to take advantage of them.
Contact Apollo Heating & Air Conditioning today!
