Rheem Unveils 2035 Sustainability Roadmap at 2026 AHR Expo
The company showcased more than 15 new and enhanced innovative products for residential and commercial applications
Rheem®, a leader in the HVAC and water heating industry for over a century, revealed its vision for sustainability and numerous product innovations at the 2026 AHR Expo. The extensive portfolio of 50 global brands, including Rheem Heating & Cooling and Water Heating, brings forth advanced and environmentally conscious product solutions designed for both residential and commercial use.
Building a Sustainable Future
During the expo, Rheem's President and Chief Executive Officer, Chris Peel; Chief Operating Officer, Alex Housten; and Senior Vice President of Strategy and Sustainability, Chee Wee Gan, announced a significant chapter in the company's dedication to environmental sustainability. They introduced new targets outlining a bold vision for 2035 and beyond. Rheem aims to enhance its mission to create meaningful solutions for customers, the industry, and the environment through the company's initiative, A Greater Degree of Good™, which includes:
Rheem's 2035 Sustainability Goals:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 30% across the entire lifecycle of Rheem products.
- Optimize packaging to ensure 90% of materials are reusable, recyclable, or compostable, or have at least 50% recycled content.
- Maintain zero waste to landfill (ZWTL) status across all factories and expand the initiative to new acquisitions.
- Reduce global waste intensity by 10% (ton/unit).
- Complete one million trainings for plumbers, contractors, and key industry influencers worldwide, covering sustainable product use, refrigerant management, and best practices.
Mike Branson, Rheem Global Air president and 2026 AHRI chairman, expressed pride in the Rheem team’s efforts in promoting sustainability. He believes their commitment sets a great industry example. With a proven track record, Rheem is confident in surpassing its ambitious sustainability goals heading towards 2035, all while navigating an ever-evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry Leading Education and Innovation
On the first day of the expo, Chris Day, Rheem's vice president of product strategy, marketing, and training, discussed emerging trends in heat pump technology. He highlighted that advancements in heat pump technology for air and water systems have significantly increased adoption across North America. This progress is driven by enhanced adaptability to various applications, increased affordability, and shifting customer expectations.
Rheem showcased an impressive lineup of over 15 new and enhanced innovative products aimed at both residential and commercial applications, drawing attention from its esteemed brands such as Friedrich®, Gibson®, HTPG®, IBC™, Intertherm®, and Raypak®.
Rheem Heating and Cooling:
- ecobee Smart Thermostat Lite | Works with EcoNet® Technology
Rheem Air Residential:
- Endeavor® Line Prestige® Series Side-Discharge Universal Heat Pump
- Endeavor® Line Classic Plus Series Top-Discharge Universal Heat Pump
- Endeavor® Line Classic Plus® Series iR Packaged Dual Fuel
Rheem Air Commercial:
- Renaissance™ Commercial Classic Plus® Series Packaged Heat Pump
Rheem Water Heating:
Rheem Water Residential:
- FT™ Series Combi Boiler
- Rheem® ProTerra® Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater
Rheem Water Commercial:
- Rheem® IKONIC™ Commercial Tankless
Friedrich:
- Friedrich® FreshAire® PTAC
- Friedrich® Floating Air™ Ductless Mini-Split
- Friedrich® Breeze™ Universal Heat Pumps
Gibson:
- Gibson® Condensing Air Conditioner 2 Ton
HTPG:
- HTPG® EcoNet-Enabled Unit Coolers
IBC:
- IBC™ SFC Superflow™ Combi
- IBC™ VX™ Series Condensing Boilers
Intertherm:
- Intertherm® E7 Series Electric Furnace
Raypak:
- Raypak® XVers® powered by K?R™
For more information visit Rheem's official website.
About Rheem®
Rheem has been a trusted partner for residential and commercial innovations for over 100 years. From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century, Rheem has evolved into a leading global manufacturer of heating, cooling, water heating, and commercial refrigeration solutions. The company stays committed to sustainability and strives to enrich lives through innovative designs and technology.
*Rheem's goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2035 from a 2023 baseline. This will include scopes 1-3 emissions as specified by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was revealed at the 2026 AHR Expo?
Rheem unveiled its 2035 sustainability roadmap and showcased over 15 innovative products focused on improving environmental impact.
Who are the key executives announcing the new sustainability goals?
Chris Peel, Alex Housten, and Chee Wee Gan presented Rheem's sustainability vision at the expo.
What are some of Rheem's 2035 Sustainability Goals?
Rheem aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 30%, optimize packaging, and achieve zero waste to landfill across all factories.
How does Rheem plan to educate its partners?
The company plans to complete one million trainings for plumbers, contractors, and industry influencers on sustainable practices.
What innovations did Rheem showcase?
Rheem showcased various products, including smart thermostats, heat pumps, and hybrid water heaters designed for improved efficiency and sustainability.
