AHR Expo 2025: 3 Key Takeaways Making Big Moves in HVAC Estimating

At the recently concluded AHR Expo 2025, HVAC folks from all parts of the globe took center stage, buzzing with vibrant energy, groundbreaking innovations, and plenty of eye-opening moments. Beam AI was there for all three days of the conference, engaging with industry leaders and offering live, hands-on demonstrations of our AI-based takeoff software—just as we did at World of Concrete, 2025.

The excitement wasn’t limited to flashy tech; it was about rethinking the entire approach to HVAC project management. This year, one thing was unmistakably clear: the HVAC industry is spearheading the digital revolution in construction.

From transforming the estimator’s role to driving efficiency with automated AI takeoffs, the innovations are set to redefine how projects are managed and executed across the globe. The insights from AHR Expo 2025 promise smarter workflows, and a bold new era where technology and human ingenuity work hand in hand.

Get ready to dive into our top three takeaways that are not just changing the game—they’re rewriting the rulebook for HVAC estimating. .

‍1. Estimators Are Evolving into Project Managers

One of the standout trends at the expo was the evolution of the estimator's role. Estimators are moving away from manual workflows which drain them, and are set to transition to comprehensive project managers. Their responsibilities will expand to include managing bids before, during, and even after the project is won. With manual tasks automated, estimators can devote significantly more time to overseeing projects and ensuring seamless execution focusing on bidding & winning more projects.

Key takeaway:

As estimators shift into more strategic project management roles, the industry is gearing up for smoother, more efficient project deliveries.

2. Construction Software is Set to Explode

‍It was hard to miss the buzz around software solutions at the expo, at the Software Center space. The construction software landscape is rapidly expanding, and the HVAC sector is eagerly embracing these advancements. With more innovative solutions on display than ever before, HVAC professionals have a wealth of digital tools at their fingertips, making the way they plan and execute projects faster and smarter than ever before. Next year, the AHR Expo is set to expand the Software Center space within the conference - to make way for the exceptional demand for software and digital solutions.

Key takeaway:

‍The growing presence of construction software is empowering HVAC teams to optimize project planning, boost productivity, and achieve more precise, efficient project execution—transforming every stage of the project lifecycle.

Did you know? Our personalized caricature mugs had everyone talking and smiling at our booth.

Adding to the excitement at our booth was a fun and memorable giveaway that became the talk of the Software Center at the Expo—with a giveaway of over 100 personalized caricature mugs! It was a hit among attendees, creating plenty of buzz and boosting our booth engagement and experience.

3. Fully Automated AI Takeoffs are a Must-Have

One resounding theme at AHR Expo was the need for 100% automated takeoffs. Manual takeoffs have long been a bottleneck, burdening teams with tedious work and delaying bids & project kickoffs.. Beam AI’s future-ready AI takeoffs tackles this head-on by automating the entire process, including handling addenda changes automatically. The result? Up to 90% less time spent on takeoffs, freeing up teams to send out 30% more bids and focus on winning projects.‍

Key takeaway:

‍Automated AI takeoffs aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re essential for boosting efficiency, reducing manual errors, and rapidly improving win rates.

‍A Global Shift in HVAC

The excitement around advanced HVAC solutions isn’t confined to the U.S.—there’s a global wave of interest. From Australia to Latin America, professionals worldwide are eager to integrate smart, AI-driven processes into their projects, reinforcing the fact that innovation and disruption in HVAC is going to be the norm hereon.

Final Thoughts

AHR Expo 2025 was a clear signal that the HVAC industry is on the cusp of a major transformation. With estimators moving into project management, an explosion of construction software, and the undeniable need for AI takeoffs, the future looks incredibly promising. Beam AI is proud to be part of this revolution, helping teams save time, send out more bids, and win more projects.

Ready to embrace the future of HVAC estimating? Book a personalized demo and see how Beam AI can transform your takeoff process, giving your team the freedom to focus on what truly matters - winning.

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