Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2024 - 2031)
By Type;
Distribution of Steam & Heated Air and Distribution of Cooled AirBy Distribution Channel;
Multi-Brand Stores, Exclusive Stores, Online and OthersBy End User;
Residential and CommercialBy Distribution of Steam &
Heated Air; Steam Piping Systems, Steam Traps & Valves, Radiant Heating Systems and Hot Air Distribution SystemsBy Distribution of Cooled Air;
Air Handling Units (AHUs), Ducted Air Conditioning Systems, Chilled Water Distribution Systems and Split & Packaged Air Conditioning SystemsBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market Overview
Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market (USD Million)
In the year 2024, the Global Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market was valued at USD 150,147.18 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 231,797.40 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.4%.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market plays a critical role in providing essential utilities to various industrial, commercial, and residential sectors worldwide. Steam, in particular, serves as a vital energy carrier and is utilized extensively in processes ranging from power generation to industrial manufacturing and heating systems. Its versatility lies in its ability to efficiently transfer heat, making it indispensable in industries where precise temperature control is crucial.
In parallel, the air-conditioning sector within this market addresses the growing demand for climate control solutions in diverse environments. With urbanization and industrialization driving the need for controlled indoor environments, air-conditioning systems have become integral across residential buildings, commercial spaces, healthcare facilities, and more. The market's evolution is marked by advancements in technology that enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, aligning with global efforts towards reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 6.4 %
| Study Period | 2026 - 2032 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2025 |
| CAGR (%) | 6.4 % |
| Market Size (2025) | USD 150,147.18 Million |
| Market Size (2032) | USD 231,797.40 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 347 |
Major Players
- Daikin Industries
- Johnson Controls
- Trane Technologies
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Carrier Global Corporation
- Lennox International Inc.
- United Technologies Corporation (UTC)
- Ingersoll Rand
- LG Electronics
- Siemens AG
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
Market dynamics within the steam and air-conditioning supply sector are influenced by factors such as economic growth, regulatory frameworks, technological innovation, and environmental considerations. As industries seek to optimize operations and minimize energy consumption, there is a growing trend towards integrated solutions that combine steam and air-conditioning services. This convergence not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports the transition towards cleaner energy sources and sustainable practices, driving further innovation and growth in the global market.
Steam and Air-Conditioning Supply Market Key Takeaways
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Steam and Air-Conditioning Supply Market is expanding due to rising demand for centralized heating, cooling, and steam generation solutions in industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
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Growth is driven by increasing adoption of district heating and cooling (DHC) systems, energy-efficient infrastructure development, and the modernization of utility networks.
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Industrial sectors such as chemical processing, food & beverage, pulp & paper, textile, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals rely heavily on steam supply services for process heating.
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Key trends include the integration of waste heat recovery, combined heat and power (CHP), renewable energy-based thermal systems, smart metering, and IoT-enabled energy management.
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Europe leads the global market due to mature district heating infrastructure, while Asia-Pacific shows high growth owing to rapid urbanization and investments in energy-efficient buildings.
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Challenges include high capital investment, long payback periods, regulatory complexities, and the need for continuous upgrades to meet emission and energy-efficiency standards.
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Future opportunities lie in renewable-based district energy systems, geothermal heating, solar thermal cooling, industrial decarbonization, and the modernization of aging steam distribution networks.
Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market Recent Developments
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In May 2025, Samsung Electronics announced its acquisition of FlaktGroup, a manufacturer of air conditioning and heating systems, for €1.5 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance Samsung's capabilities in providing advanced cooling solutions for high-demand data centers.
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In July 2025, Vertiv announced a $200 million acquisition of Great Lakes Data Racks & Cabinets to strengthen its thermal management portfolio. The deal integrates customized data rack enclosures and cable management systems, enhancing offerings for high-density compute cooling requirements.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market has been segmented by Type, Distribution Channel, End User, Distribution of Steam & Heated Air, Distribution of Cooled Air and Geography.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by Type
The Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market by type illustrates how supply systems are differentiated based on the end purpose—either delivering heated (steam & heated air) or cooled air to built environments. Each segment involves distinct equipment, infrastructure, and control requirements, reflecting diverse design standards, efficiency priorities, and regulatory compliance metrics. Energy optimization, operational reliability and climate demands are central drivers shaping investments across these types.
Distribution of Steam & Heated Air
The distribution of steam & heated air segment focuses on systems designed to transport and deliver thermal energy through piping, traps, valves, and radiant mechanisms. These systems are critical in regions with cold climates and industrial applications requiring precise heat management. Adoption trends emphasize safety compliance, condensation control and improved heat transfer efficiency to reduce energy losses.
Distribution of Cooled Air
The distribution of cooled air segment encompasses technologies that ensure airflow delivery for space cooling. This includes duct systems, AHUs, and water‑based chilled distribution networks that meet comfort and process cooling needs. With increasing global temperatures and demand for thermal comfort, investments in efficient cooled air distribution technologies are rising, underpinned by advanced control systems and integration with building management platforms.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
The Distribution Channel segmentation outlines how steam and air‑conditioning supply products reach end users, reflecting shifts in procurement behavior and channel strategies. The interplay between physical retail, digital platforms, and specialist outlets shapes brand visibility, product accessibility, and after‑sales support. Omnichannel engagement and the emergence of online sourcing are reshaping buyer experiences.
Multi‑Brand Stores
Multi‑brand stores stock a variety of steam and air‑conditioning supply components from different manufacturers, enabling comparison shopping and technical consultation. These channels are valued for breadth of choice, competitive pricing and localized availability, particularly in regions with established HVAC product ecosystems.
Exclusive Stores
Exclusive stores focus on single‑brand portfolios, offering in‑depth product expertise, demonstration support and tailored solutions for complex project requirements. These channels strengthen brand positioning and foster long‑term customer relationships through dedicated service and technical guidance.
Online
Online platforms provide convenience, comprehensive product information, and streamlined procurement for both residential and commercial buyers. Growth in digital adoption has accelerated orders of HVAC components, piping systems and accessories—especially among small contractors and end users seeking transparent pricing and rapid delivery.
Others
The Others category comprises institutional procurement, direct manufacturer sales and B2B aggregators that serve large projects and bulk orders. These channels support tailored supply agreements, logistics coordination and long‑term service contracts critical for large commercial or industrial installations.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by End User
The End User segmentation reveals how steam and air‑conditioning supply solutions are adopted by residential and commercial sectors, each with distinct performance needs, space constraints, and regulatory pressures. Buyer priorities such as safety, comfort, cost‑efficiency and compliance drive product selection and system design across these segments.
Residential
Residential end users demand reliable, compact and energy‑efficient steam and cooled air distribution systems that enhance home comfort while controlling operating costs. Ease of installation, integration with existing building structures and low maintenance requirements are key decision factors for homeowners and residential builders.
Commercial
Commercial users—including offices, retail spaces, hotels and institutional buildings—require scalable steam and air‑conditioning supply solutions capable of maintaining consistent indoor environmental quality. These applications often emphasize system redundancy, advanced controls and compliance with commercial building standards to satisfy occupant comfort, uptime and energy performance targets.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by Distribution of Steam & Heated Air
The Distribution of Steam & Heated Air segmentation breaks down the core components that form the thermal supply infrastructure. These subsegments address the movement, control and delivery of steam and heated air through engineered systems. Thermal efficiency and reliable heat transfer are fundamental to performance, especially in regions with cold climates or industries requiring precise heat distribution.
Steam Piping Systems
Steam piping systems form the backbone of heated air and steam distribution, requiring robust materials and insulation to minimize heat loss, prevent corrosion and ensure safety. Proper engineering ensures consistent flow, pressure control and integration with traps and valves for optimal performance.
Steam Traps & Valves
Steam traps & valves regulate flow, remove condensate and maintain pressure stability within steam systems. Effective trap and valve selection prevents energy wastage, reduces water hammer risks and enhances overall system reliability—critical for both residential boilers and large commercial steam networks.
Radiant Heating Systems
Radiant heating systems deliver heat through surfaces such as floors or walls, providing uniform thermal comfort. These systems emphasize efficient heat transfer with minimal airflow requirements, appealing to residential and commercial sectors where comfort and energy efficiency are prioritized.
Hot Air Distribution Systems
Hot air distribution systems channel heated air through ducts and outlets using blowers and diffusers. These systems require precise balancing to ensure uniform temperature distribution and minimize energy consumption across zones, making them a staple in modern HVAC designs.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by Distribution of Cooled Air
The Distribution of Cooled Air segmentation examines subcategories of systems that deliver conditioned air for thermal comfort. Each distribution approach offers distinct design, performance and integration characteristics tailored to building types, occupancy patterns and cooling load requirements. Cooling effectiveness and energy performance metrics are central to competitiveness.
Air Handling Units (AHUs)
Air handling units (AHUs) condition and circulate cooled air through integrated fans, coils and filters. These central components are critical for commercial and large residential buildings, enabling controlled ventilation, humidity management and air quality improvement as part of holistic HVAC systems.
Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
Ducted air conditioning systems distribute cooled air through a network of ducts to multiple zones. They provide uniform cooling and flexible zoning capabilities, making them suitable for large spaces and multi‑room layouts where tailored temperature control enhances occupant comfort.
Chilled Water Distribution Systems
Chilled water distribution systems circulate cooled water to air handlers or fan coil units, offering high efficiency for large commercial buildings and campuses. These systems integrate with central chillers and building automation systems to balance thermal loads and optimize energy performance.
Split & Packaged Air Conditioning Systems
Split & packaged air conditioning systems provide cooled air delivery with flexible installation options. Split systems accommodate individual rooms, while packaged units combine all components into a single enclosure—ideal for small commercial sites or residential applications seeking efficient, space‑efficient cooling.
Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America. Regional climate patterns, building codes, industrial growth and HVAC adoption rates influence market dynamics and infrastructure investments.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America represents a sizable segment driven by extreme seasonal temperature variations that necessitate robust steam and air‑conditioning supply systems. High residential and commercial HVAC penetration, stringent energy efficiency standards and retrofit activity support continued investments.
Europe
Europe exhibits steady demand supported by well‑established HVAC codes, focus on indoor environmental quality and sustainability objectives. Climate variability across the region and investments in building modernization underpin demand for efficient steam and air‑conditioning supply technologies.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is the fastest‑growing region due to rapid urbanization, expanding commercial complexes and rising disposable incomes that fuel residential and commercial HVAC equipment installations. Strong construction activity and industrial development further bolster market prospects.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa demonstrate growing adoption of air‑conditioning supply systems due to high ambient temperatures and investments in commercial infrastructure. Energy efficiency and thermal comfort considerations drive demand for advanced cooled air distribution technologies.
Latin America
Latin America shows moderate growth supported by expanding urban centers, increasing HVAC awareness and infrastructure enhancements. Growth in residential and commercial segments invites broader adoption of steam and air‑conditioning supply solutions that improve comfort and efficiency.
Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems
- Growth in industrialization and urbanization worldwide
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Technological advancements in steam and air-conditioning equipment - The steam and air-conditioning supply market has seen significant advancements driven by technological innovation in recent years. These innovations have revolutionized the efficiency, sustainability, and operational capabilities of steam and air-conditioning equipment across various industries. One of the key areas of advancement is the integration of smart technologies and IoT (Internet of Things) capabilities into steam and air-conditioning systems. This integration allows for remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimization of energy consumption, thereby reducing operational costs and improving reliability.
There has been a notable shift towards more sustainable solutions in the steam and air-conditioning supply market. This includes the development of eco-friendly refrigerants, energy-efficient compressors, and heat recovery systems. These advancements not only help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also align with initiatives towards sustainability and environmental stewardship. Manufacturers and suppliers are increasingly focusing on developing products that meet stringent environmental regulations while providing superior performance and energy efficiency.
Advancements in materials science and manufacturing techniques have led to the development of more durable and corrosion-resistant components for steam and air-conditioning equipment. This has extended equipment lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements, contributing to lower lifecycle costs for end-users. Additionally, innovations in heat exchanger design and thermal management technologies have improved the overall efficiency of steam generation and air-conditioning processes, further enhancing the market attractiveness for industrial and commercial applications.
Restraints
- High initial costs associated with installation and maintenance
- Stringent environmental regulations and compliance requirements
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Fluctuating raw material prices affecting manufacturing costs - The steam and air-conditioning supply market is significantly impacted by fluctuating raw material prices, posing challenges to manufacturing costs and operations. Raw materials such as metals, plastics, and specialized components are essential in the production of steam boilers, air conditioning units, and related equipment. When prices for these materials rise due to factors like supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, or changes in demand, manufacturers face increased production costs. This situation often necessitates adjustments in pricing strategies or operational efficiencies to maintain profitability.
The volatility in raw material prices can lead to uncertain market conditions, affecting both suppliers and consumers within the steam and air-conditioning supply chain. Suppliers may struggle with forecasting costs accurately, leading to inventory management challenges and potentially higher prices passed down to consumers. For consumers, particularly industries heavily reliant on steam and air-conditioning systems such as manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality, these cost fluctuations can impact budgeting and investment decisions, influencing their willingness to upgrade or expand their facilities.
To mitigate the impact of fluctuating raw material prices, industry players often resort to strategies such as hedging, diversifying suppliers, or renegotiating contracts to secure more stable pricing. Additionally, technological advancements in manufacturing processes and materials research aim to develop more cost-effective and sustainable alternatives. Regulatory measures and international agreements may also play a role in stabilizing prices by addressing market distortions or promoting fair trade practices. Despite these challenges, the steam and air-conditioning supply market continues to adapt, driven by innovation and resilience in navigating the complexities of global supply chains and economic dynamics.
Opportunities
- Expansion of the construction sector in emerging economies
- Rising awareness and adoption of sustainable heating and cooling solutions
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Increasing focus on improving indoor air quality and comfort levels - The steam and air-conditioning supply market is experiencing a significant shift with a growing emphasis on enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort levels. As awareness of the health impacts of poor IAQ rises, industries and commercial sectors are increasingly investing in advanced HVAC systems. These systems not only regulate temperature but also filter and circulate air to mitigate pollutants and improve overall air quality. This trend is driven by stringent regulatory requirements and a heightened awareness among building owners and managers regarding the importance of providing a healthier indoor environment.
Technological advancements play a crucial role in meeting these evolving demands. Innovations such as smart thermostats, energy-efficient ventilation systems, and air purification technologies are becoming standard in modern HVAC solutions. These technologies not only enhance comfort by maintaining optimal conditions but also contribute to sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints. As a result, there is a growing market for integrated HVAC solutions that offer comprehensive management of indoor environments while aligning with environmental and regulatory standards.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of IAQ solutions. The need to minimize airborne transmission of viruses has underscored the importance of proper ventilation and air filtration in public and commercial spaces. This has led to increased investments in HVAC upgrades and installations that prioritize IAQ improvements, including the deployment of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and ultraviolet (UV) germicidal irradiation systems.
Steam and Air-conditioning Supply Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Steam and Air-conditioning Supply Market continues to expand as demand for sustainable energy and climate control solutions rises. Competition is marked by integrated utility providers and specialized service operators focusing on collaboration, partnerships, and merger strategies to enhance efficiency. Nearly 62% of the market concentration is held by large-scale suppliers, highlighting their strong role in ensuring consistent growth.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market shows medium-to-high concentration, with about 68% controlled by major utility and infrastructure companies. Smaller operators contribute niche strategies focusing on localized supply. Strong collaboration with municipal authorities and industrial hubs reinforces the competitive structure, while expansion into renewable systems reflects long-term growth priorities and diversified supply reliability.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Brand positioning emphasizes service reliability and sustainability, with nearly 57% of operators leveraging direct contracts with commercial and industrial customers. Companies strengthen partnerships through efficiency-driven strategies and renewable integration. Marketing efforts highlight innovation in low-emission solutions, combined with service differentiation that secures steady customer engagement and supports sector-wide growth.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Technological progress drives competitive advantage, with nearly 54% of recent upgrades focusing on energy recovery, automation, and emission reduction. Industry leaders emphasize innovation in heat networks, efficient turbines, and smart grid integration. Investments in technological advancements encourage broader partnerships with municipalities and industry, supporting sustainable growth across both steam and air-conditioning supply services.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional expansion plays a central role, with Europe accounting for nearly 42% of the sector due to advanced district heating networks. Asia-Pacific demonstrates double-digit growth as urbanization drives demand, while North America secures 38% presence through efficiency-based strategies. Cross-border collaboration and localized innovation further strengthen the sector’s regional competitiveness and infrastructure expansion.
Future Outlook
The future outlook reflects steady growth supported by decarbonization policies and smart system integration. Nearly 47% of providers are planning expansion into renewable-powered steam and cooling supply. Industry resilience will depend on partnerships, energy-efficient innovation, and ongoing technological advancements that reinforce the sector’s long-term sustainability and competitive positioning.
Key players in Steam & Air-Conditioning Supply Market include :
- Daikin Industries
- Johnson Controls
- Trane Technologies
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Carrier Global Corporation
- Lennox International Inc.
- United Technologies Corporation
- Ingersoll Rand
- LG Electronics
- Siemens AG
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By End User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market Forces
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems
- Growth in industrialization and urbanization worldwide
- Technological advancements in steam and air-conditioning equipment
- Restraints
- High initial costs associated with installation and maintenance
- Stringent environmental regulations and compliance requirements
- Fluctuating raw material prices affecting manufacturing costs
- Opportunities
- Expansion of the construction sector in emerging economies
- Rising awareness and adoption of sustainable heating and cooling solutions
- Increasing focus on improving indoor air quality and comfort levels
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Distribution Of Steam and Heated Air
- Steam Piping Systems
- Steam Traps And Valves
- Radiant Heating Systems
- Hot Air Distribution Systems
- Distribution Of Cooled Air
- Air Handling Units (AHUs)
- Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
- Chilled Water Distribution Systems
- Split And Packaged Air Conditioning Systems
- Distribution Of Steam and Heated Air
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Multi-Brand Stores
- Exclusive Stores
- Online
- Others
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, By End User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Residential
- Commercial
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Steam And Air-conditioning Supply Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Daikin Industries
- Johnson Controls
- Trane Technologies
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Carrier Global Corporation
- Lennox International Inc.
- United Technologies Corporation (UTC)
- Ingersoll Rand
- LG Electronics
- Siemens AG
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

