14 NEW TOOLS & Tech from the MASSIVE AHR 2026 EXPO!

The AHR Expo brings together HVAC professionals, contractors, manufacturers, and technology developers from across the industry. For the 2026 show, we traveled to Las Vegas to explore the massive show floor.

They found 14 standout tools and technologies from Milwaukee Tool, DEWALT, KNIPEX, Hilti, Wiha, VETO, GE Profile, and more. The episode covered cordless pipe bending, heavy-duty metal cutting, radiant flooring, smart thermostats, water heaters, and whole-home air-cleaning systems.

Here is a closer look at the products that caught their attention at AHR Expo 2026.

REMS Battery-Powered Pipe Bender

The first stop took Rob and Sarah to the REMS booth. There, the team demonstrated a cordless pipe bender that creates smooth, controlled bends.

The model can produce 45-degree, 90-degree, and 180-degree bends. Forward and reverse controls help the user guide the tubing throughout the process.

HVAC and plumbing professionals often bend tubing in tight or awkward spaces. A portable cordless bender could reduce physical effort and improve consistency.

KNIPEX PEX Cutter

KNIPEX displayed a compact cutter that sliced through PEX tubing with very little effort.

The blade produced a smooth, even edge during the demonstration. It also trimmed small sections from the end of the tubing with impressive accuracy.

A clean cut helps PEX fittings seat correctly. It can also reduce the chance of connection problems during installation.

DEWALT Cordless Material Lifter

DEWALT introduced a cordless material-handling tool (DW-DCE592B) for large and awkward objects.

The tool creates suction against compatible surfaces. Users can then lift and reposition plastic panels, electrical boxes, pavers, and other materials.

The controls keep operation simple. Press the activation button and apply light pressure until the tool creates a secure seal. After moving the material, press the release control to disconnect it.

This type of tool could help installers handle panels, tile, sheet goods, and other difficult materials. It may also help users keep their fingers away from pinch points.

MRCOOL Compact Refrigeration Unit

MRCOOL introduced a compact refrigeration system that aims to simplify installation and service.

The unit contains pre-charged refrigerant lines. MRCOOL estimates that contractors can install it in four to six hours. Traditional split refrigeration systems may require more time.

The unit can operate between 0 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Users can also connect up to three units for larger refrigerated spaces.

The design also simplifies future replacement. A technician can disconnect a damaged unit and install another without emptying the entire refrigerated space.

MRCOOL expects this approach to reduce downtime for commercial refrigeration customers.

Milwaukee M18 10-Gauge Nibbler

Milwaukee Tool demonstrated a new M18 10-gauge nibbler (3476-20) for demanding sheet-metal work.

The cordless tool can cut 10-gauge mild steel. Milwaukee also states that it can complete up to 96 feet of cutting in that material.

An integrated collection system captures the metal pieces created during each cut. This feature reduces cleanup and keeps sharp fragments off the floor.

During the demonstration, the nibbler created a close and controlled cut through 10-gauge steel. HVAC fabricators, roofers, metalworkers, and mechanical contractors may find it useful.

Wiha Insulated Hand Tools

Wiha used the show to explain why insulated screwdrivers come in different shapes and sizes.

The company offers slotted, Phillips, Torx, square, metric, and SAE options. Wiha matches each handle size to the tip and its expected torque level.

A large handle on a small fastener can make overtightening easier. A small handle on a large fastener forces the user to work harder.

Wiha certifies its insulated tools for work up to 1,000 volts. The company also tests each tool individually at a higher voltage during manufacturing.

These tools can help electricians and HVAC technicians work more safely around energized equipment.

BOLDR Universal Smart Thermostat

BOLDR introduced a universal smart thermostat built for HVAC contractors.

The thermostat works with ductless mini-splits, central systems, and other HVAC setups. It uses a separate display and equipment base.

Contractors can install the base near the air handler or mechanical equipment. The display then communicates with it through an encrypted radio-frequency connection.

This setup can eliminate the need to pull new thermostat wires through a finished home.

The base also includes several universal terminals. Contractors can assign each terminal through the thermostat interface.

BOLDR designed the system to handle simple and complex HVAC installations. The company wants technicians to carry one thermostat that works across many jobs.

Hilti Nuron Battery Platform Expansion

Hilti sponsored the episode and shared the latest Nuron battery platform expansion.

The Nuron system powers compact drills and high-demand equipment with the same battery platform. That equipment includes concrete saws, breakers, core drills, and SDS Max rotary hammers.

Hilti displayed three new batteries at AHR Expo 2026. The lineup included high-capacity packs and a pouch-cell battery for demanding applications.

The new dual-bay flash charger uses active cooling. Its boost mode can also charge one battery faster.

Hilti also introduced a modular charging dock that holds up to four chargers. Crews can mount it on a wall or carry it inside a Hilti ProKit box.

A smart power distribution system supports the charging setup. Hilti says the full system can charge up to 48 batteries from one 15-amp circuit.

This setup could help large crews manage batteries without constantly searching for more outlets.

Warmboard Hydronic Heating and Cooling System

Warmboard demonstrated a radiant floor heating system that circulates warm water under the finished floor.

The system works under hardwood, tile, carpet, and other flooring materials. Each room can also use its own thermostat.

Radiant heating does not blow air through the room. It can provide quiet and even heat without the drafts that often come from vents.

Warmboard also displayed a hydronic cooling unit that fits inside a wall cavity. The system directs air along the ceiling instead of blowing it directly at people.

The company offers one flooring panel for new construction and a thinner option for remodeling.

Warmboard also provides engineering support. Its team designs the system and sends color-coded components to the jobsite.

GE Profile GeoSpring Heat Pump Water Heater

GE Profile brought the GeoSpring heat pump water heater back with new technology.

The lineup includes 40-, 50-, 65-, and 80-gallon models. An electronic mixing valve helps each unit provide more usable hot water.

The tank stores water at a higher temperature. It then mixes the hot water with cold water before sending it to the fixture.

GE says this process can provide up to 60 percent more hot water. A 50-gallon model can perform more like a larger conventional tank.

The unit also includes a wireless leak sensor. When it detects water, the system can shut off the supply valve and send an alert through the app.

Homeowners can use the SmartHQ app to monitor the unit and adjust its temperature.

Resideo Pro-IQ Service Suite

Resideo introduced Pro-IQ, a digital service platform for HVAC contractors.

The Pro-IQ Install app allows managers to create setup templates for technicians. A technician can use the template instead of entering every thermostat setting manually.

Resideo says the process may save 15 to 20 minutes per installation. It can also reduce setup mistakes and costly return visits.

The platform connects the installed thermostat to the HVAC company. Contractors can add their logo, contact details, appointment links, and service messages to the homeowner’s app.

Companies can also create alerts for unusual temperatures or equipment readings. This feature may help technicians identify problems before a homeowner needs emergency service.

DEWALT 20V MAX XR 5 CFM Vacuum Pump

DEWALT expanded its cordless HVACR lineup with a 20V MAX XR 5 CFM vacuum pump (DW-DCE510WW1).

A wide base helps keep the pump stable. Its narrow body also makes storage easier inside a service van.

The integrated shoulder strap helps technicians carry the pump while holding hoses, manifolds, gauges, and other equipment.

An internal check valve protects the system if the battery loses power. It helps prevent oil from flowing backward and holds the vacuum during a battery change.

During the show demonstration, the team pulled the system down to 500 microns. Five minutes after activating the valve, the reading reached about 800 microns.

VETO GO Everyday Carry Bags

VETO Pro Pac introduced a new collection of everyday carry bags called VETO GO.

The company designed the line for commuters, travelers, office workers, and former field professionals. These users may want VETO durability without carrying a full tool load.

The collection includes backpacks and travel-focused designs. Features include laptop storage, organized compartments, water-resistant materials, and lightweight construction.

Some models also include molded bases similar to those on VETO tool bags.

VETO GO brings the company’s familiar organization and durability to everyday use.

Field Controls UVX Whole-House Air Cleaner

Field Controls displayed the UVX air-cleaning system for residential HVAC equipment.

The system uses ultraviolet lamps inside the air-handling system. Installers can configure it with one or two lamps.

Some configurations also use photocatalytic oxidation technology. This process uses titanium dioxide to help break down certain organic materials and odors.

Technicians can position the UV lamps near the furnace or evaporator coil. The light helps control organic buildup on damp HVAC components.

A cleaner coil may reduce odors and help the HVAC system stay cleaner over time.

Bonus Test: Milwaukee TORCH NITRUS CARBIDE Reciprocating Saw Blade

Milwaukee also demonstrated its TORCH NITRUS CARBIDE reciprocating saw blade.

The blade cuts cast iron, black pipe, rebar, angle iron, and other thick metals.

Milwaukee compared its blade with a competing blade during the episode. Both tests used new blades, matching tools, matching batteries, and equal applied weight.

The Milwaukee blade completed the black-pipe cut noticeably faster.

What AHR Expo 2026 Revealed About the Future of the Trades

AHR Expo 2026 showed how quickly tools and building systems continue to change.

Cordless tools now handle jobs that once required large corded machines. Smart HVAC systems simplify installation, monitoring, and service. Modern battery platforms also power larger and more demanding equipment.

Manufacturers continue to focus on real jobsite problems. They want to reduce installation time, improve safety, simplify maintenance, and increase productivity.

The show also highlighted greater connectivity. Thermostats, water heaters, service platforms, and HVAC systems now give professionals more information and control.

These 14 products offer a preview of where the tool and HVAC industries are heading next.

Watch the Full AHR Expo 2026 Tool Show Episode

Watch Rob and Sarah explore all 14 tools and technologies from AHR Expo 2026 in Las Vegas.

The full episode includes product demonstrations, manufacturer interviews, a Milwaukee blade test, Hilti Nuron battery updates, and another Platinum Tool Deal from Ohio Power Tool.

Special thanks to Hilti North America for sponsoring the episode and supporting the Tool Show community.

Ohio Power Tool proudly supports the show and the professionals who make the tool community possible. Visit Ohio Power Tool to explore new tools, equipment, accessories, and product releases.