IFH/Intherm 2026 showcases developments in heating, sanitation and air conditioning

IFH/Intherm 2026 brings together the key topics of the HVAC trade and shows how heating, sanitation and air conditioning are developing under changing conditions. The focus is on technical solutions that are geared towards energy efficiency, resource conservation and practical implementation in the trade. The industry is in a phase of fundamental adjustment - driven by regulatory requirements, rising operating costs and changing customer expectations.

Trends and innovations at IFH/Intherm

It is becoming increasingly important for specialised companies to take a holistic view of systems. Individual components are becoming less important, while integrated solutions are becoming the standard. This is precisely where IFH/Intherm 2026 comes in, showcasing specific applications that have proven themselves in planning, installation and operation.

Heating systems between heat pumps and hybrid solutions

Heat pumps continue to dominate the heating sector, but no longer as an isolated stand-alone solution. Instead, there is a clear trend towards hybrid systems in which different energy sources are combined. Photovoltaics, storage technology and intelligent control form the basis for a flexible energy supply. Integration into existing buildings remains a key issue. Many systems have to be modernised under real conditions without complete system changes being possible or economically viable. Here, solutions are emerging that integrate existing technology and optimise it step by step. Typical developments in the heating sector:

• Combination of heat pump and conventional systems
• Integration of photovoltaics into heating concepts
• Heat storage for load shifting
• Digital control for variable energy sources
• Retrofit solutions for existing buildings

Sanitary technology in the area of conflict between comfort and consumption

In the sanitary sector, the focus is clearly shifting towards resource efficiency. Water consumption and hygiene requirements are on an equal footing and are influencing the development of new systems. In technical terms, this is reflected in automated solutions that precisely control consumption and utilisation. At the same time, comfort remains a decisive factor, especially in the private sector. Bathrooms are being planned functionally without sacrificing design aspects. Relevant topics in the sanitary sector:

• Reducing water consumption with intelligent fittings
• Hygienic solutions for public and commercial buildings
• Optimised pipe routing to avoid stagnation
• Digital control of water flows
• Integration of technical solutions into modern bathroom concepts

Air conditioning and ventilation technology as part of integrated building systems

The importance of air conditioning and ventilation technology has increased significantly. In modern buildings, it is no longer sufficient to consider individual functions in isolation. Air quality, temperature and energy consumption must be planned as an overall system. Controlled ventilation is indispensable, especially in well-insulated buildings. Systems with heat recovery help to minimise energy losses while ensuring a constant indoor climate. Key developments in this area:

• Combined systems for heating, cooling and ventilation
• Heat recovery to increase efficiency
• Filter technology to improve air quality
• Decentralised and central ventilation solutions
• Integration into higher-level building control systems

Digitalisation is changing planning, operation and maintenance

In addition to traditional system technology, digitalisation is playing an increasingly important role. It not only influences the systems themselves, but also the processes in the trade. Digital tools support the planning and design of systems, facilitate documentation and improve coordination between those involved. At the same time, new possibilities are opening up in the operation of buildings. These include, among others:

• Real-time monitoring of systems
• Automated adaptation to consumption data
• Remote maintenance and diagnostics
• Digital documentation of installations
• Optimisation of maintenance intervals

IFH/Intherm 2026 as a reflection of current developments

IFH/Intherm 2026 shows the industry in a phase in which technical, economic and regulatory requirements are overlapping. Solutions must not only be efficient, but also fit into existing structures and function in the long term. The interplay between heating, sanitation and air conditioning clearly shows that building technology is developing into integrated systems. Individual trades are becoming less distinct, while overall solutions are gaining in importance. IFH/Intherm 2026 reflects precisely this development - with a clear focus on realisable technology and specific applications in everyday trade.