RACA Journal I June 2026 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za 23
FEATURE SERIES
AI
‘ DATA’ IS A BIG WORD
By Eamonn Ryan
In HVAC, AI isn’ t just improving operations – it’ s rewriting the business model.
Artificial Intelligence( AI) is reshaping industries by automating processes, analysing enormous data sets, and improving decision-making with unprecedented precision. From manufacturing to logistics, the results are consistent: higher efficiency, greater innovation and more intelligent operations. In the HVAC sector, AI is fast becoming a cornerstone of profitability – transforming how buildings are managed, systems are maintained and customers are served. We asked several industry experts to share how AI can drive profits and redefine value across HVAC operations.
HOW AI IS SUPERCHARGING AFRICA’ S COOLING REVOLUTION AI is rapidly emerging as one of a key force in the HVAC & R sector, redefining how systems are designed, monitored and optimised. Across sub-Saharan Africa – where energy costs, grid instability and limited technical resources present persistent challenges – AI is accelerating a shift toward more intelligent, resilient and efficient cooling and heating infrastructure.
Its impact can be understood in three powerful dimensions.
• First, AI is reshaping predictive maintenance. Machinelearning tools embedded in modern refrigeration and HVAC systems continuously analyse performance patterns, flag anomalies and identify potential failures before they occur. This shift toward anticipatory maintenance reduces costly downtime and enables technicians to intervene early, even across remote or hard-to-reach sites. artificial intelligence
RACA Journal I June 2026 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za 23