CCN provides a comprehensive roundup of dozens of new products that were launched or previewed at the three-day exhibition.
First-time technology which has never been seen in Australia before was on show at the Copeland stand.
The Copeland HMX liquid desiccant module features patented closed-loop technology that combines cooling and dehumidification in a single step, reducing energy consumption by up to 40% compared to conventional HVAC systems.
Basically, it was engineered to dehumidify outdoor air before it enters a building.
The closed-loop design ensures that desiccant never contacts ductwork or enters occupied spaces, eliminating corrosion risks while maintaining superior indoor air quality.
Midea had its expanding VRF range on show at ARBS including the V8 series and the upcoming V9 VRF systems which are currently being released into the market.
Heat exchange efficiency has long been a bottleneck in VRF system design. The V9 breaks through this limitation with its 310° G-type heat exchanger that maximises heat exchange efficiency under the same footprint, boosting ODU energy efficiency by 15%.
To ensure this efficiency remains consistent across all climates, the Phase-Change Refrigerant Thermal Management System maintains 30°C steady coolant cooling, in extreme hot or cold climates.
Midea is currently expanding its technical support infrastructure nationally, including service teams, spare parts capability and additional training facilities.
NATA testing
Another company that has been busy investing in the local market is Rinnai.
The company currently operates two manufacturing facilities in Melbourne and has committed to further investment in robotics, engineering capability and local production expansion over the coming years.
Rinnai has also established two NATA-certified testing laboratories in Australia capable of validating product performance, efficiency and compliance both for the local market and for Rinnai Group global operations.
A stand-out at the Seeley stand was the Climate Wizard CW-Hybrid, which combines indirect evaporative cooling with DX technology through a shared plenum system.
The Braemar Dominator, was another major attraction, because of its ability to directly replace gas heating systems while utilising existing ductwork. More than 2,000 units have already been sold.
Good design has become increasingly important in the air conditioning market with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air Conditioners Australia (MHIAA) winning the style prize for its new Allure ZTA Series scheduled for launch in October.
The units have a shiny, Colourbond finish and contemporary design for customers who are serious aesthetics.
The Allure ZTA Series also introduces a range of engineering improvements including quieter operation, improved airflow and upgraded fan technology.
The units can operate as quietly as 19 decibels and can deliver air up to 11 metres across larger living spaces.
MHIAA didn’t have any problems attracting visitors to its stand, the company served Karaage chicken and Japanese beer daily from 4pm.
Meanwhile, Actrol previewed its new digital platform, Virtual Engineer, which became available this month.
It is a new tool for contractors that can be accessed on weekends or after-hours allowing Actrol customers to make the most of their billable hours.
When working on a project, contractors provide inputs on a design and Virtual Engineer will provide product recommendations allowing customers to move forward immediately. There was certainly a high level of interest in this product.
Hisense previewed a flurry of new releases which are scheduled for the second half of 2026.
The company had its X3 Split System at the stand with the X4 set for release later this year. Visitors were able to see the X5 Series which was just released and the X7 designer series which will be released shortly.
The Hisense Multi-Split with VRV technology is now available up to 20kW previously it was only available up to 12kW. Hisense also claims it has the smallest bulkhead on the market which generated plenty of interest from installers.
Heat pumps
Blygold was back at ARBS again this year with Supercar champion, Will Brown, on hand to sign autographs. Blygold did plenty of product demonstrations highlighting the treatment process used on RTPF and other finned heat exchanger surfaces.
Visitors saw first-hand how Blygold coatings form a finely engineered protective barrier without compromising heat transfer performance, airflow, or system pressure drop.
Another major attraction at ARBS was Daikin’s CO2 hot water heat pump system, which uses CO2 refrigerant with a GWP rating of one.
Once again Daikin is expanding its product portfolio entering the domestic hot water market for the first time.
Footy fans at the show were able to meet former Australian rules footballer and current AFL commentator, Brian “BT” Taylor, at the TCL stand.
Taylor was one of the most colourful and controversial footballers of the 1980s. Happy to be at ARBS, Taylor said he loved meeting people from all walks of life.