ISH in Frankfurt is the world's most important trade fair for sanitation, heating, air conditioning, and ventilation technology. Every two years, it brings together the international industry and serves as an innovation platform for manufacturers, planners, architects, specialist tradespeople, energy consultants, project developers, and political decision-makers. The focus is on solutions that meet the requirements of energy-efficient, sustainable, and digital building technology – from private homes to large-scale projects. With its clear thematic profile, ISH is divided into two major areas: “ISH Water” with a focus on modern bathroom design and drinking water hygiene, and “ISH Energy” with a focus on heating technology, renewable energies, building management, and intelligent control systems. The trade fair is not only a product show, but also a source of inspiration for an industry that stands at the interface between climate policy, the construction industry, and everyday comfort.
ISH plays a central role when it comes to implementing climate policy goals in the building sector. Buildings account for around one-third of global CO₂ emissions – and the potential for innovation on display in the exhibition halls is correspondingly large. The exhibits include heat pump systems, fuel cell technologies, hybrid heating concepts, solar thermal energy, ventilation systems with heat recovery, and intelligent control systems for building efficiency. In addition to energy-efficient products, the focus is also on complete system solutions: from networked smart homes to decentralized local heating supply, from passive house standards to energy-self-sufficient living. Anyone interested in other trade fairs in Frankfurt will find a comprehensive overview of relevant events at Frankfurt Trade Fair.
The ISH Water section focuses on modern bathroom concepts – with a special emphasis on resource conservation, accessibility, and design. Water-saving fittings, intelligent shower systems, smart controls for hygiene and consumption optimization, and sustainable materials dominate the scene. At the same time, it is clear that the bathroom is increasingly becoming a wellness and comfort zone. Manufacturers are presenting innovative solutions for a better quality of life – for example, through acoustically optimized rooms, LED-illuminated products, digital mirrors, and ergonomically designed sanitary facilities. The combination of function and aesthetics is also receiving a lot of attention.
Another central theme at ISH is digitalization in the construction and building sector. Whether BIM (Building Information Modeling), cloud-based control systems, or networked IoT solutions for energy consumption, indoor climate, or maintenance cycles—smart technologies are permanently changing the planning processes, operation, and maintenance of buildings. The trade fair shows how digital systems not only increase comfort and efficiency, but also create transparency – for example, through real-time data on energy flows or predictive maintenance in large building complexes. Manufacturers, software companies, and system integrators present solutions that often work across different trades.
The ISH is accompanied by a diverse conference and forum program. Experts from industry, science, trade, and politics come together in numerous panels, specialist presentations, and discussion formats. Thematic focal points include funding policy, EU directives, recruiting young talent in the HVAC sector, sustainability certifications, and international market trends. Practical formats will also receive special attention: specialist forums for tradespeople, innovation hubs for start-ups, and special shows on young talent and vocational training offer targeted added value for different target groups.
With more than 2,000 exhibitors from over 60 countries and tens of thousands of trade visitors, ISH is globally unique in its thematic breadth and depth. It offers access to a high-caliber network of manufacturers, system partners, government representatives, and buyers. Especially in times of profound transformation—keywords: decarbonization, digitalization, demographic change—the trade fair provides orientation and solutions. The trade fair is also an important venue for international partnerships: many companies use ISH to tap into new markets or present cross-border technologies. Companies from Europe, East Asia, and North America are particularly well represented.
Whether climate protection, comfort, health, or digitalization – the challenges in the building sector are complex. ISH shows that innovative technology, design quality, and systemic thinking belong together. Anyone who wants to understand where the world of building technology is heading will find reliable insights and concrete perspectives here. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: ish.messefrankfurt.com