ASHRAE
ASHRAE is a non-profit international professional society founded in 1894 serving 50,000+ HVAC&R engineers in 130+ countries through technical standards, the 4-volume Handbook, peer-reviewed Journal, conferences, certifications, and training, with quasi-regulatory influence over commercial building codes globally.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded1894
- HeadquartersAtlanta, United States
- Headcount501–1,000
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingServices
What ASHRAE does
ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) is a non-profit international professional membership society founded in 1894 and headquartered in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. The organization serves more than 50,000 HVAC&R engineers, designers, facility managers, and related professionals across 130+ countries, organized through 201 chapters in 15 global regions and supported by more than 200 technical committees. Its core technology is the creation, maintenance, and dissemination of technical knowledge rather than manufactured products: ASHRAE publishes more than 100 standards and guidelines (including 90.1 for energy efficiency, 62.1 and 170 for ventilation, and Guideline 36 for HVAC control sequences), the four-volume ASHRAE Handbook, the monthly ASHRAE Journal, ASHRAE Transactions, conference papers, and digital resources including the ASHRAE 365 mobile app and Technology Portal. Selected standards are ANSI-accredited and incorporated into the US International Codes via ASHRAE's MOU with the International Code Council, giving the society quasi-regulatory influence over commercial building design globally.
ASHRAE's product portfolio is anchored on standards and publications, complemented by professional development and a growing events and frameworks business. The June 2026 AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework, co-developed with PNNL and NEMA, extends the portfolio into AI infrastructure standards, while the Center of Excellence for Building Decarbonization and the Vision 2035 strategic document signal long-horizon positioning around decarbonization and AI-intelligent buildings. Revenue is generated through tiered membership dues ($290/year Full Member, $75-$145 Affiliate, $30 Student, with developing-economy discounts), conference and expo registrations across the Annual, Winter, AHR Expo, and topical conferences, bookstore and standards sales via Techstreet, instructor-led and eLearning courses through the ASHRAE Learning Institute, professional certifications (notably Certified Decarbonization Professional), and donations through the ASHRAE Foundation and Research Promotion campaigns. Distribution runs through ashrae.org, the ASHRAE 365 App, the global chapter network, ASHRAE Global Training in MENA/Asia, and government affairs advocacy.
The go-to-market is a hybrid of direct-to-consumer (online membership enrollment), event-driven (conferences drive both revenue and member acquisition), and community-led (chapters, YEA programs, 200+ technical committees, student zones, and the Job Board sustain year-round engagement). Customer segments span HVAC&R engineers as the primary persona, building owners and operators as a key use-case segment, and dedicated verticals in healthcare (via ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE 170), data centers, food retail refrigeration (via the NASRC MOU), and schools. The 2025-26 Presidential theme 'Healthy Buildings: Designing for Life' is shaping content focus toward indoor environmental quality. Governance is member-elected through a Board of Directors led by President William F. McQuade (2025-26 term), with Executive Vice President Jeff H. Littleton retiring and Sarah E. Maston serving as President-Elect.
ASHRAE firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- ASHRAE
- Legal name
- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
- Website
- https://ashrae.org
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 1894
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 501–1,000 employees
- Short description
- ASHRAE is a non-profit international professional society founded in 1894 serving 50,000+ HVAC&R engineers in 130+ countries through technical standards, the 4-volume Handbook, peer-reviewed Journal, conferences, certifications, and training, with quasi-regulatory influence over commercial building codes globally.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
ASHRAE industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Professional Engineering Society (HVAC&R Standards & Education)
- NAICS
- Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services (5416)
- SIC
- Air-Cond & Warm Air Heatg Equip & Comm & Indl Refrig Equip (3585)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Building Performance, Energy Auditing & HVAC Efficiency (EDAOACAM)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Architecture, Construction & Building Codes Reference (Design, BIM, Safety Codes) (EDAGAGAH), Safety, Security & Emergency Services (OSHA, Fire, EMS, Security CE) (EDAAALAK), Air Filtration & Indoor Air Quality Components (Filters/UV/ERVs-HRVs) (IMADANAE)
Keywords
Where ASHRAE is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Atlanta
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices1 record
Markets served
ASHRAE business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Services
- Cost components
- Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Membership Dues: Membership dues are the primary recurring revenue stream, with tiered pricing by grade (Full Member $290/yr, Associate, Affiliate $75–$145/yr, Student $30/yr) and developing-economy discounts. Members receive the ASHRAE Handbook, Technology Portal access, conference registration benefits, and publications.
- Conference and Expo Registrations: The 2026 Annual Conference (Austin, June 27–July 1), 2027 Winter Conference (Chicago, Jan 23–27), AHR Expo, and multiple topical conferences (Building Decarbonization, Data Center and AI Integration, etc.) generate registration fees, sponsorships, and exhibition revenue.
- Publications and Standards Sales: The ASHRAE Bookstore at techstreet.com/ashrae and the Techstreet storefront sell standards, guidelines, the ASHRAE Handbook (PDF and online), conference papers, research reports, and special publications to members and non-members at member and non-member pricing.
- Professional Development and Certification: ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI) courses offered as instructor-led training (in-person, live virtual) and eLearning On Demand generate course fees. Certifications (e.g., Certified Decarbonization Professional) and exam fees provide additional revenue. Global Training is offered in MENA and Asia regions.
- Donations and Research Promotion: ASHRAE RP (Research Promotion) Campaign raises industry-funded research contributions. ASHRAE Foundation accepts endowed donations. Life Members Club, College of Fellows, and YEA programs accept targeted donations. Planned giving and employer matching programs are also available.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription | Annual | Full Member — open to those with 12+ years of equivalent HVAC&R experience; $290/year |
| Subscription | Annual | Developing Economies Full Member — $175/year (vs. $290 standard) |
| Subscription | Annual | Affiliate Member — introductory tier for under-30 or recently discharged military; $75–$145/year |
| Subscription | Annual | Developing Economies Affiliate — $45–$90/year |
| Subscription | Annual | Student Member — for students in HVAC&R-related fields; $30/year |
| Subscription | Annual | Student Member Developing Economies — $15/year |
| Subscription | Annual | Group Enrollment — 10% discount for 5+ applicants |
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels5 records
Marketing channels8 records
ASHRAE product offering
Product offeringCore offering
ASHRAE develops, publishes, and disseminates technical standards, guidelines, and research that advance the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R). Its core deliverables include over 100 ANSI-accredited standards (notably 90.1 for energy and 62.1 for ventilation) incorporated into building codes, the four-volume ASHRAE Handbook, the peer-reviewed ASHRAE Journal, conference papers, professional certifications (e.g., Certified Decarbonization Professional), instructor-led and eLearning courses, and global conferences such as the Annual Conference and AHR Expo.
Product overview
ASHRAE is an international professional society (not a software company) that serves as a central knowledge hub for the HVAC&R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration) industry. The organization offers a portfolio of core products including the ASHRAE Handbook (comprehensive multi-volume reference), ASHRAE Journal (monthly peer-reviewed publication), and over 100 Standards & Guidelines covering energy efficiency, ventilation, and building performance. Supporting products include ASHRAE 365 App (mobile access), Technical Resources (Building EQ, AEDGs, Center of Excellence for Building Decarbonization), and Professional Development offerings (eLearning, certifications like CDP, instructor-led training including ASHRAE Global Training). The organization publishes research through ASHRAE Transactions and Conference Papers, and has launched new technical frameworks including the AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework. ASHRAE also hosts major conferences (Annual Conference, Winter Conference, topical conferences) and provides strategic guidance through Vision 2035 and the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Products and services
- ASHRAE Handbook Comprehensive multi-volume technical reference publication covering HVAC&R systems, equipment, and practices, available in print, PDF, and online formats for HVAC&R professionals, engineers, and researchers.
- ASHRAE Journal Monthly peer-reviewed technical publication featuring original research, technical articles, and industry developments for HVAC&R engineers, designers, and researchers.
- ASHRAE Standards and Guidelines Over 100 ANSI-accredited standards and guidelines establishing recommended design and operating practices for the built environment, including energy efficiency, ventilation, refrigeration, and indoor air quality standards. Sold through the Techstreet bookstore and referenced in US and international building codes.
- AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework Comprehensive technical framework co-developed with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) providing consolidated standards and best practices for energy sourcing, thermal efficiency, grid-interactive design, and operational performance of AI data centers. Designed for data center project developers, engineers, utilities, facility managers, and policymakers.
- ASHRAE Professional Certifications Professional certification programs including the Certified Decarbonization Professional (CDP), Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP), and other industry-credentialed certifications for HVAC&R professionals. Includes exam fees, digital badging, and a public directory of certified professionals.
- eLearning On Demand Self-paced online training course catalog covering HVAC&R topics including decarbonization, CDP exam preparation, technical communication, and building systems design. Available to individuals and via group enrollment for organizations.
- ASHRAE Global Training (Instructor-Led Training) Instructor-led training delivered in-person, live virtual, at Annual Conference, and through ASHRAE Global Training tailored for participants in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia. Includes HVAC Design and Operations Training, company/chapter training, and developing-economy discounts.
- ASHRAE Annual and Winter Conferences (and AHR Expo) ASHRAE's flagship Annual and Winter Conferences plus the co-located AHR Expo, held in major U.S. cities, generating registration fees, sponsorships, and exhibition revenue. Includes keynote sessions, technical paper presentations, short courses, and networking events for HVAC&R professionals.
- ASHRAE Topical Conferences Targeted topical conferences such as the Building Decarbonization Conference, Data Center and AI Integration Conference, International Conference on Efficient Building Design, ICERD, Energy and Indoor Environment for Hot Climates, and Women in ASHRAE Leadership Symposium, addressing focused themes within HVAC&R.
- ASHRAE Transactions and Conference Papers Technical research papers and conference proceedings documenting original HVAC&R research, sold as publications and bundled with conference registration.
- Building EQ Online assessment tool for rating building energy performance and indoor environmental quality, used by building owners, operators, and commissioning professionals to benchmark and improve facility performance.
- Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) Practical design guides providing recommendations for achieving aggressive energy savings in various building types and climate zones, used by architects, engineers, and designers.
- Center of Excellence for Building Decarbonization (CEBD) Technical resource center advancing building decarbonization through research, education, and industry collaboration, providing guidance for low-carbon building design and operations.
- ASHRAE 365 App Mobile application providing year-round access to ASHRAE news, conference information, member engagement features, and content updates for HVAC&R professionals.
- ASHRAE Membership Tiered professional membership (Full Member, Associate, Affiliate, Student) with annual dues that include access to the ASHRAE Handbook, Technology Portal, Journal, conference registration benefits, publications, and voting rights. GroupPay enrollment provides 10% discount for employers enrolling 5+ new members.
Quantifiable outcome
- ASHRAE 90.1-2022 delivers approximately 15% energy cost savings compared to the 2019 version and over 48% compared to 90.1-2004
- +4 more outcomes
Companies that use ASHRAE
Customer profileNamed customers5 records
Segments5 records
Ideal customer profiles6 records
ASHRAE technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed No
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature5 records
ASHRAE partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
25 partnerships are on record, tiered core/flagship, regional and standard.
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)core/flagshipASHRAE collaborated with PNNL (US Department of Energy national laboratory) and NEMA to co-develop the AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework. The collaboration involved more than 50 industry partners and serves as a dynamic online resource for data center developers, engineers, utilities, and policymakers. PNNL contributes scientific expertise in energy systems and building science; ASHRAE contributes thermal management and HVAC standards expertise.
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)core/flagshipASHRAE and NEMA co-developed the AI Data Center Energy Performance Framework with PNNL, consolidating over a dozen NEMA technical standards and guidance documents into a single actionable operating guide. The framework covers energy sourcing, thermal efficiency, grid-interactive design, and operational best practices for AI data centers.
- North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC)core/flagshipA three-year Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on research, knowledge sharing, workforce development, and advanced education aimed at accelerating natural refrigerant adoption. The partnership combines ASHRAE's global leadership in research, standards, and continuing education with NASRC's industry network spanning more than 55,000 food retail locations. Joint training modules, certification programs, and workshops prepare professionals to work with natural refrigerant systems.
- Mega ClimaregionalASHRAE Nigeria Chapter collaborates with Mega Clima on the annual distinguished lecture series in Lagos, focusing on national codes, standards, and professional responsibility in sustainable building design. This partnership supports ASHRAE's mission in the West African region.
- International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)standardMemorandum of Understanding (August 2025) for collaboration on standards development and technical alignment in the built environment, promoting interoperability between plumbing/mechanical codes and ASHRAE standards.
- International Code Council (ICC)core/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (June 2006) supporting the incorporation of ASHRAE standards into the International Codes (I-Codes), making ASHRAE energy and ventilation standards part of the model building code system adopted throughout the United States.
- American National Standards Institute (ANSI)core/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (October 1998) establishing ASHRAE as an ANSI-accredited standards developer. ASHRAE standards designated as ANSI/ASHRAE standards carry the authority of the US standards system and are referenced in federal and state regulations.
- Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)core/flagshipStrategic Partnership Agreement (2024) with CIBSE, the UK-based professional engineering body for building services. Includes a CIBSE/ASHRAE Membership program allowing cross-membership, and collaboration on standards, education, and global professional development in the built environment.
- American Society of Healthcare Engineers (ASHE)core/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (August 2025) with ASHE, the leading voice for health care facility engineering. Jointly publish ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE 170 (Ventilation of Health Care Facilities) and collaborate on healthcare facility engineering standards and education.
- International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA)standardMemorandum of Understanding (November 2025) for collaboration on ultraviolet air cleaning and disinfection technologies, supporting the integration of UV systems into ASHRAE standards and guidelines for indoor air quality.
- International Energy Agency – Energy in Buildings and Communities Program (IEA-EBC)core/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (April 2026) for collaboration on building energy research, knowledge sharing, and standards development under the IEA's Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme, ASHRAE's most significant international research partnership.
- International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR)standardPartnership Agreement (April 2017) with IIR, the intergovernmental organization for refrigeration science and technology. Collaboration on research, standards, and knowledge sharing for natural refrigerants and sustainable refrigeration.
- Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ISHRAE)regionalMemorandum of Understanding (January 2026) with ISHRAE, India's leading HVAC&R professional society. Supports ASHRAE's chapter operations in India, joint events, and professional development in the Indian market.
- Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)regionalMemorandum of Understanding (February 2024) with IGBC, part of the Confederation of Indian Industry. Collaboration on green building standards, certifications, and sustainable building design practices in India's rapidly growing green building market.
- The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heating (AIRAH)regionalMemorandum of Understanding (May 2026) with AIRAH, Australia's premier HVAC&R professional institute. Joint initiatives on standards, professional development, and workforce development in the Australian and Oceania market.
- Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations (REHVA)regionalMemorandum of Understanding (February 2025) with REHVA, representing 27 national HVAC associations across Europe. Collaboration on European building sustainability standards and professional development aligned with EU decarbonization directives.
- Deutscher Kälte-und Klimatechnischer Verein (DKV)regionalMemorandum of Understanding (August 2025) with DKV, Germany's refrigeration and air-conditioning association. Supports ASHRAE's European engagement through joint technical activities and standards alignment.
- Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA)standardMemorandum of Understanding (July 2008) with GCCA, the global cold chain association. Collaboration on refrigeration standards and cold chain energy efficiency best practices.
- Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Internationalcore/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (January 2008) with BOMA International, representing commercial building owners and managers. ASHRAE's standards on indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and building operations are directly relevant to BOMA members' portfolio management.
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)core/flagshipMemorandum of Understanding (August 2025) with AIA, the leading professional association for architects. Joint activities support the integration of ASHRAE technical standards and IEQ guidance into architectural practice and design processes.
- American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)standardMemorandum of Understanding (June 2024) with AIHA, the association for occupational and environmental health and safety professionals. Collaboration on indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, and building environmental quality standards.
- Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) InternationalstandardMemorandum of Understanding (September 2025) with AMCA, the air movement and control association. Collaboration on standards for fans, dampers, and other air moving equipment used in HVAC systems covered by ASHRAE standards.
- Clinton Climate Initiative of the William J. Clinton Foundation (CCI/WJCF)standardMemorandum of Understanding (August 2006) with the Clinton Climate Initiative, focused on energy efficiency and climate change mitigation in the built environment through building decarbonization initiatives.
- Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)standardMemorandum of Understanding (2019) with EPRI, the independent, non-profit energy research institute. Collaboration on electrical systems, power quality, and energy efficiency research relevant to building systems and data centers.
- International Facility Management Association (IFMA)standardStrategic Agreement (2019) with IFMA, the international association for facility management professionals. Joint work on standards and professional development connecting facility management with HVAC&R best practices.
Scale indicators10 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights6 records
ASHRAE competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- CIBSE (Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers): UK-based professional engineering body for building services, operating as the closest international peer to ASHRAE. Already a 2024 strategic partner with cross-membership program, covering HVAC, lighting, and energy in buildings.
- International Code Council (ICC): Develops the I-Codes model building codes widely adopted in the US. ICC is both a partner (2006 MOU) and a peer in code development, with overlapping authority on commercial building energy and ventilation standards.
- NFPA (National Fire Protection Association): US-based standards developer with a similar non-profit professional society model, publishing codes (e.g., NFPA 90A) for HVAC-related fire and life safety. Comparable business model of standards sales, training, and certification.
- IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials): Develops plumbing and mechanical codes (Uniform Plumbing Code) referenced alongside ASHRAE standards. 2025 MOU partner; operates a comparable standards-and-training business model with overlapping jurisdiction.
- IIR (International Institute of Refrigeration): Intergovernmental organization advancing refrigeration science and technology. 2017 partnership partner; directly comparable as a knowledge-creation and dissemination body for refrigeration standards, natural refrigerants, and cold chain.
Others
- ASHVE / ASRE: Predecessor organizations (American Society of Heating and Ventilating Engineers, 1894; American Society of Refrigerating Engineers, 1904) that merged in 1959 to form ASHRAE. Not active peers but represent the institutional lineage of ASHRAE's HVAC&R scope.
Regional players
- ISHRAE (Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers): India's leading HVAC&R professional society, directly comparable in scope. 2026 MOU partner; addresses the same technical domains through a regional lens with parallel membership, conferences, and certification programs.
- REHVA (Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations): Umbrella federation representing 27 national HVAC associations across Europe. 2025 MOU partner; operates as the European counterpart on building sustainability and decarbonization aligned with EU directives.
- AIRAH (Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heating): Australia's premier HVAC&R professional institute with a 2026 MOU with ASHRAE. Comparable membership, training, and standards alignment model focused on Oceania markets.
Broad incumbents
- ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers): Larger engineering society with a broader mechanical engineering scope, including HVAC&R-adjacent standards (boiler and pressure vessel codes). Operates a similar non-profit standards, training, and certification model with greater scale and a wider mandate.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat6 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
ASHRAE social profiles
Digital presenceASHRAE financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
ASHRAE leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles8 records
ASHRAE funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
ASHRAE M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about ASHRAE
What does ASHRAE do?
ASHRAE develops, publishes, and disseminates technical standards, guidelines, and research that advance the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R). Its core deliverables include over 100 ANSI-accredited standards (notably 90.1 for energy and 62.1 for ventilation) incorporated into building codes, the four-volume ASHRAE Handbook, the peer-reviewed ASHRAE Journal, conference papers, professional certifications (e.g., Certified Decarbonization Professional), instructor-led and eLearning courses, and global conferences such as the Annual Conference and AHR Expo.
Is ASHRAE a public or private company?
ASHRAE is a private company. It is classified as nonprofit foundation owned and is currently operating.
When was ASHRAE founded?
ASHRAE was founded in 1894. It employs 501 to 1,000 people.
Where is ASHRAE based?
ASHRAE is headquartered in Atlanta, United States, in the North America region.
How does ASHRAE make money?
Five revenue lines are on record. Membership Dues are the primary driver. The others are conference and Expo Registrations, publications and Standards Sales, professional Development and Certification and donations and Research Promotion.
Who are ASHRAE's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are CIBSE (Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers), International Code Council (ICC), NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) and IIR (International Institute of Refrigeration). ASHVE / ASRE is listed as an others. Regional players are ISHRAE (Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers), REHVA (Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations) and AIRAH (Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heating). ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) is listed as a broad incumbent.
Does ASHRAE have an API?
No public API is recorded for ASHRAE.
What industry is ASHRAE in?
ASHRAE's product category is Professional Engineering Society (HVAC&R Standards & Education). Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAOACAM, Building Performance, Energy Auditing & HVAC Efficiency, with a secondary code of EDAGAGAH, Architecture, Construction & Building Codes Reference (Design, BIM, Safety Codes). Its NAICS code is 5416 and its SIC code is 3585.