Transformers are the backbone of reliable power for utilities, industrial sites and large construction projects. When a substation upgrade or emergency replacement is on the line, two things matter greatly — price and how fast a supplier can deliver. In a tight North American market where lead times stretch into months, buyers need vendors with real inventory, transparent pricing and logistics muscle to hit commercial operation dates. What to Look for in a High-Quality Transformer Procurement teams should benchmark manufacturers on compliance, engineering depth, life cycle cost and delivery readiness.  Look for IEEE/ANSI compliance, UL listing where applicable and documented factory test routines. Ask about core steel grades, winding design, tap changer options, and monitoring packages like dissolved gas analysis, bushing monitors and hot-spot temperature sensors for predictive maintenance.  Pricing ranges in the United States vary by spec and size. For example, a common pole-mounted distribution transformer will cost less than a typical three-phase pad-mounted unit for commercial service. At the fleet level, the total cost of ownership comes down to efficiency class, cooling design, fluid choice and warranty support.  Why is fast delivery a challenge for many transformer manufacturers? According to Wood Mackenzie, U.S. demand for power transformers has surged 116% since 2019, while demand for distribution transformers increased 41% — driven mostly by rising electricity use and grid projects.  The same research agency expects 2025 supply deficits of about 30% for power transformers and 10% for distribution units. Imports are expected to supply approximately 80% of U.S. power transformers and 50% of distribution units in 2025. These dynamics push prices up and extend lead times, which is why suppliers with inventory or accelerated programs stand out.  10 Top Providers of Affordable New Transformers Large power transformers average $500,000 to $3 million, depending on voltage class, rating and options. That capital outlay is tough for many smaller utilities and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) teams, so providers that blend competitive pricing with quick ship capacity reduce schedule and budget risks.  1. Sunbelt Solomon Sunbelt Solomon is one of North America’s most visible transformer suppliers with nationwide service coverage and a strong inventory. The company maintains Quick-Ship stock for pole-mount and pad-mount distribution units, and it highlights immediate shipment on select models.  Sunbelt also supplies new components alongside surplus and reconditioned options, which helps match budgets and schedules across different project scopes. Products include liquid-filled and dry-tape padmounts, along with field services for commissioning and maintenance. For buyers racing against a deadline, the quick-ship landing page and “available for immediate shipment” options help preserve project timelines. Coverage is national through multiple field teams and facilities.  Sunbelt Solomon is frequently used for emergency replacements, capital upgrades and temporary bypass service during substation work. Quotes often include freight timing and coordination with site receiving, so crews can plan with confidence.  2. GE Vernova For engineered power transformers, GE Vernova Grid Solutions covers everything from medium to ultra-high voltage with ratings from 5 mega-volt amperes (MVA) to 2,750 MVA, including high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and phase-shifting variants. Designs emphasize digital monitoring and high-efficiency cooling to cut losses.  While large units are typically made to order, GE Vernova announced recent U.S. factory investments aimed at capacity growth and delivery performance — welcome news for schedule-sensitive projects. Buyers seeking utility-grade generator step-up or auto transformers will value the breadth and installed base of these products. Engineering teams can support custom impedance, loss and noise targets for sensitive sites. A broad installed base with utilities and independent power producers helps procurement benchmark life cycle performance. 3. ELSCO Transformers ELSCO Transformers focuses on the emergency replacement of pad-mount and dry-type distribution transformers, offering fast delivery through its Quick-Ship program. If the right unit is in stock, it can ship within 24 to 48 hours.  ELSCO says it maintains 95% availability of dry-type units with popular voltage ratings, such as 2400, 4160, 12470, 13200 and 13800. It also runs a rapid response team for outage situations. This offering is suited for plants, campuses and municipalities that need a fast, like-for-like medium-voltage unit.  Stock is concentrated on common kilovolt-amperes (kVA) sizes with standard accessories to simplify interchangeability. Clear datasheets and test reports can speed up internal approvals during emergency outages.  4. Daelim Transformer Daelim Transformer manufactures ANSI/IEEE-compliant distribution and substation transformers and has taken steps to shorten delivery times to U.S. customers. In mid-2025, it announced the pre-positioning of over 500 UL-listed pad-mounted transformers across the country for urgent applications, targeting data centers and high-load sites.  For standard pad-mount ratings, Daelim also markets swift production timelines and expertise in North American standards. This mix of U.S.-stocked inventory and factory capacity can help hit tight in-service dates while keeping unit costs competitive. Units arrive configured with U.S. practices, including tamper-proof cabinets and common bushing layouts. Buyers who standardize a narrow set of ratings often use Daelim to stabilize costs across various projects.  5. MGM Transformers MGM Transformers is a major U.S. distribution transformer manufacturer with an explicit expedited program. The Bull Rush program offers fast solutions in as little as five working days on select models — backed by a broad catalog that includes liquid-filled and dry-type units for commercial and industrial applications, battery energy storage systems, and renewables. For projects with near-term energization, Bull Rush is a concrete path to reduce schedule risk without sacrificing spec compliance.  Requests for special taps or enclosure variations can be reviewed under the expedited window case by case. The company’s North American footprint helps reduce shipping uncertainty during peak seasons.  6. Evernew Transformer Evernew Transformer is a long-standing Chinese transformer manufacturer exporting oil-filled and dry-type units worldwide, including Canada and the U.S. Its portfolio spans pole-mount, tabletop, substation and power transformers up to high-voltage classes.  Buyers often consider Evernew for factory-direct pricing on new builds, then plan around freight to meet their schedules. For U.S. projects, confirm UL and IEEE/ANSI alignment on the exact model and build, taking customs lead time into account when comparing the landed cost against domestic quick-ship options.

More than half (59%) of UK heating engineers are either already or likely to work with other companies to develop heat pump competencies, according to heating and hot water solutions provider Baxi’s fourth annual Installer Skills Survey. Despite this interest in being prepared, a lack of consumer demand remains the number one barrier to heat pump uptake – with 60% of installers citing this as the main barrier, highlighting the challenge of converting installer interest into real-world installations. The 2025 Survey showed that attitudes of some segments of the heating engineer population are becoming more sceptical of heat pumps and towards net zero more broadly, reflecting the increasingly divisive narratives on the topic from across the political spectrum. The survey – conducted with green supply chain consultancy Talan (formerly Gemserv) – gathered responses from almost 400 installers, making it the most comprehensive snapshot of UK installer attitudes to heat pumps to date. Confidence growing as training makes its mark The study found that 59% of installers are either already developing the skills to fit heat pumps or intending to do so within the next few years.  As the majority of installer operators are either sole traders or very small businesses with just two or three employees, the trend is to partner with other companies that can provide complimentary services, such as system design, installation support or financing. The number of installers citing a lack of training as a barrier has fallen by 18 percentage points compared with 2024, suggesting that industry investment in training is beginning to pay off. Baxi alone has seen over 1,000 installers attend its own heat pump training courses over the last 12 months. When asked what drives them in their work, heating engineers most frequently cited providing a good service to customers (85%), solving technical problems (62%), and getting things right from a technical perspective (50%). According to Baxi, this sense of professionalism partly explains why some installers hesitate to recommend new technologies until they feel fully competent. “Installers clearly want to do the right thing for their customers,” said Ian Trott, Head of Training at Baxi UK. “Many take pride in their technical ability and won’t compromise on service until they’ve built real hands-on experience with the technology. Training for a qualification is one thing – but training for competence is what’s really needed to move the needle on installer engagement.” Hybrids seen as a practical bridge The 2025 survey also found that 35% of installers have or would be somewhat or extremely likely to move to fitting heat pumps as part of a hybrid system, where a heat pump works alongside an existing combi boiler, rather than as a full heat pump only replacement.  Unlike a stand-alone heat pump system, hybrids typically do not require a water cylinder making the installation lower cost, quicker, less disruptive and with less complexity for the installer. “Hybrids can be a powerful transitional step,” Trott said. “They are often more attractive to installers because they’re easier to fit, and to customers because they require less cost and disruption. Research shows a well-installed hybrid can cut a home’s heating carbon footprint by around 70% a year or more. Supporting hybrid options would give more installers valuable real-world experience and help homeowners see the benefits earlier.” Paperwork and demand still holding the sector back While attitudes to heat pumps have shifted positively, consumer demand is developing more slowly. Although many households continue to prefer a straightforward like-for-like boiler replacement, 2024 was still a record year for UK heat pump sales. Almost half of respondents – 46% – named the paperwork involved in government schemes as a major obstacle to installing heat pumps, saying it slows down projects and can deter customers from making the switch. To help ease this burden, Baxi will launch its own MCS Umbrella scheme later this year, designed to reduce the administrative workload for smaller businesses and sole traders. The company has also expanded its hands-on training programme and increased online and video-based educational resources produced at its Warwick Solutions Academy. Generational divide and industry dynamics A recurring theme in Baxi’s annual surveys has been a generational divide in attitudes to retraining. Installers approaching retirement are generally less inclined to invest in developing new skills, while those earlier in their careers are more open to diversifying their expertise. The survey also noted that a large proportion of UK heat installers work either as sole traders or in very small teams. This structure can make it more difficult for them to take time out for training or to manage the additional paperwork that often accompanies low-carbon installations. Many respondents said they expect to collaborate or partner with other service providers to meet future demand for clean heat technologies. “These findings show that despite some hardening of opinions most gas boiler installers aren’t dogmatic about technology and just want to do a good job for their customers. Many installers are preparing for the future, with plans to prepare for the uptake of heat pumps and develop their skills. As a result, more installers are comfortable talking to their customers about energy efficiency and fewer say that training is a barrier than in last year’s study. It shows that the work the sector is doing to encourage training is working,” said Will Taylor, Principal Consultant at Talan. The role of installers in decarbonisation Home heating is responsible for around 18% of the UK’s carbon emissions, and approximately 85% of households still rely on natural gas boilers. As the transition to cleaner heating accelerates, installers are expected to play a central role in guiding customers through their choices and in ensuring new technologies are fitted competently and to a high standard. Almost 400 installers took part in this year’s survey, which was conducted in July and August 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Carrier Solutions UK has announced that its recently launched AquaSnap 30AWH-P monobloc air-to-water heat pump has achieved Quiet Mark certification for its outstanding low-noise operation. Carrier Solutions UK Ltd (formerly Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd) is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions. Quiet Mark is the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation, recognising best-in-class acoustic design across multiple industries. Only 10–20% of the quietest products in each category receive the certification. The AquaSnap 30AWH-P combines innovative design and environmental stewardship, using ultra-low GWP R290 natural refrigerant and quieter operation for residential and light commercial applications. End users benefit from low sound levels, further reduced in night mode, as well as flexible installation options across outputs from 4 to 14 kW. From a distance of 5m, the 30AWH-P features a low sound pressure level starting at just 24dB on the smallest size, thanks to the acoustic insulation on the metal panels around the hydraulic and refrigerant modules. “Innovating key features that provide important benefits been central to the development of the AquaSnap 30AWH-P,” said David Dunn, Managing Director, UK&I, Carrier CSE-R. “Earning Quiet Mark certification highlights the success of our design in delivering low noise alongside responsible performance, providing real benefits for end users.” For more information on the AquaSnap 30AWH-P, visit: Air-to-water heat pump | AquaSnap 30AWH-P Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A mini split system offers flexibility, efficiency and convenience to keep your home comfortable year-round. Whether you want to upgrade an older house without ductwork or simply cut your energy bills, they have become your go-to choice. But with so many brands and models on the market, choosing the right one can be tricky.  What is a Mini Split System? A mini split system is an air conditioner for heating and cooling a single room or zone. Typically, an outdoor compressor unit powers one or more indoor units connected by refrigerant lines.  The main difference from “normal” air conditioning is the absence of ductwork in a mini split. This eliminates energy loss through ducts, increasing energy efficiency and allowing for zone-specific temperature control. They are a good option for homes without existing ducts, requiring only a small hole for the refrigerant lines. The Top 10 Mini Split Systems for Homes Examine the top-rated companies to help you make an informed, confident decision when investing in a mini split system.  Ingrams is a leading online retailer specializing in HVAC solutions, including mini split systems, central air and furnaces. With decades of experience, it serves homeowners and contractors nationwide. IWAE stands out for its extensive product selection, competitive pricing and expert customer support. Its website makes it easy to compare, purchase and arrange delivery of top-rated products.  Ingram’s deep inventory includes options from various brands, allowing consumers to choose from the best range of mini split systems for homes. Buyer guides and detailed product information on the site empower homeowners to make informed decisions. The company highlights the energy-saving ratings of each product and showcases advanced features such as auto-mode and smart controls. This customer-first approach and robust after-sales support make Ingrams a best-in-class winner for householders wanting to buy a mini split system. Mitsubishi Electric is a leader in HVAC technology and is renowned for its innovation and reliability. With over a century of experience, the company has set industry standards for ductless mini split systems, offering advanced comfort solutions for your home. Its units are praised for their energy efficiency, quiet operation and precise climate control, making them ideal for zoning and retrofitting older homes. The company’s inverter-driven compressors and smart controls ensure consistent comfort and lower energy bills. A commitment to quality is evident in robust warranties and a strong dealer network with excellent after-sales support. Mitsubishi Electric’s focus on sustainable and healthy indoor air distinguishes it in the market, making its systems popular for homeowners seeking reliable and eco-friendly solutions. Daikin is the world’s largest HVAC manufacturer, bringing decades of innovation and expertise to the mini split market. It offers a comprehensive range of systems, heat pumps and VRV multi-zone solutions for residential and commercial use. Its products are known for advanced inverter technology, high SEER ratings and reliability. Daikin’s commitment to research and development ensures cutting-edge features, such as smart controls and eco-friendly refrigerants. With multiple manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Daikin provides robust support and quick product availability. Its systems are designed for energy savings, comfort and flexibility, making them a good choice for homeowners seeking customizable climate control. LG Air Conditioning Technologies is a major player in the global HVAC market, offering innovative ducted and duct-free solutions for homes and businesses. Known for sleek design and advanced technology, LG’s mini split systems combine high efficiency with smart home integration, including Wi-Fi and voice assistant compatibility. The product line includes single and multi-zone systems, wall-mounted, floor-mounted and ceiling cassette units, catering to diverse installation needs. LG’s systems are engineered for quiet operation, reliable performance and user-friendly controls. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its energy-efficient models and use of eco-friendly refrigerants. With a strong brand presence and customer support network, LG stands out for its blend of style, tech and performance. Fujitsu General United States is a trusted provider of high-efficiency heating and cooling solutions, with a strong focus on mini split and VRF systems. Its Airstage line offers advanced comfort for residents, featuring various capacities and configurations. Fujitsu’s mini splits are known for their quiet operation, high SEER ratings and eco-friendly performance.  The company emphasizes customer support, training and technical resources, ensuring homeowners have the guidance they need. With over 40 years in the U.S. market, Fujitsu has built a reputation for reliability, innovation and energy savings. Its systems are ideal for retrofits and homes seeking superior indoor air quality.  GREE is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of air conditioners, with a rapidly growing presence in North America. The company offers a wide selection of ductless and mini split systems, including single and multi-zone options, portable AC units and smart controls. GREE’s products are recognized for their affordability, reliability and energy efficiency, making them accessible to a broad range of homeowners. The company’s mini splits feature inverter technology, quiet operation and user-friendly interfaces. GREE’s global scale allows for robust research, development and quality control, ensuring consistent product performance. The brand’s commitment to innovation and value has earned it a loyal customer base. GREE is a solid contender for those seeking cost-effective, dependable and efficient solutions.  Pioneer Mini Split is a popular direct-to-consumer brand specializing in ductless mini split systems for residential and light commercial use. Based in Miami, Florida, Pioneer offers a wide range of single and multi-zone systems, focusing on affordability and ease of installation. Its products are DIY-friendly, often including pre-charged linesets and comprehensive installation guides.  Pioneer stands out for its competitive pricing, fast shipping and strong customer support, including a 5-year warranty and a 45-day satisfaction guarantee. The company’s online platform makes it easy for homeowners to select, purchase and install their own systems. Budget-conscious consumers and DIY enthusiasts can appreciate its commitment to value, accessibility and customer satisfaction. MrCool has revolutionized the mini split market with its innovative DIY systems, designed for straightforward installation by homeowners. The brand’s flagship series features pre-charged linesets and simple, tool-free connections, eliminating the need for professional refrigerant handling. MrCool’s product range

Every rental property needs a high-performance heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system to keep tenants cool and comfortable. Choosing a system that balances cutting-edge technology with affordability is key to making a sound investment that lowers monthly utilities and prevents complaints.  The question is where to find the most cost-effective options for rental dwellings. Whether you are equipping a single-family unit or a multifamily complex, these brands have the right system for optimal well-being. Ingrams Water & Air Equipment (IWAE) delivers a wide range of complete HVAC systems, components and accessories at wholesale prices. As a supplier, it provides units from reputable brands like Goodman and MrCool, each supported by manufacturer and IWAE warranties.  The team is an excellent resource for helping customers decide on an appropriate product that fits their property and budget. The company prides itself on customer satisfaction and helping you save money.   Ordering is easy online with secure checkout. IWAE aims to ship products within 24 to 36 hours. You can also return or replace faulty purchases within 30 days for a full refund, provided you pay a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs when sending back unwanted items. In addition to an array of free resources — including how-to manuals, buying guides, and other articles and videos — IWAE offers complimentary technical support throughout your product’s lifetime. You can contact the support team by phone for setup instructions, troubleshooting or other guidance. Key Features 2. AC Direct AC Direct offers a 125% low price guarantee and free shipping on HVAC unit purchases over $1,500. It carries brands like Daikin, Goodman, Honeywell, Aprilaire and Nest. While some suppliers provide additional services like sizing and installation, AC Direct focuses more on discounted prices — you will need to contact a local contractor to assist with the rest.  This online wholesaler ships throughout the United States, except Alaska and Hawaii. You can expect delivery within five to 10 business days, excluding holidays and weekends. Items eligible for returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee, and you are also responsible for insured freight costs. All items sold by AC Direct come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which you can read about under each product listing or look for on the individual manufacturer’s website. To ensure coverage, you must register your equipment as soon as a contractor installs it, sending proof of installation to AC Direct within 45 days.  Key Features 3. Amana  Amana has created quality HVAC products since 1934. It manufactures and tests its products in its 4.2-million-square-foot facility in Texas to guarantee they exceed customer expectations. Through its website, you can easily search for expert dealers who have undergone comprehensive training on Amana equipment. Your brand dealer can service your HVAC equipment based on the product, your regional codes and climate needs. Once you register your purchase, your system could be eligible for a 10-year unit replacement limited warranty, a 99-year heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year parts limited warranty. You can also opt for the extended warranty policy through Asure.  No one knows Amana products better than its in-house specialists. If you have questions about its inventory, you can contact a representative by completing the online form or calling the primary office.  Key Features 4. YORK YORK is a renowned brand for heating and cooling systems for residential and commercial properties. In addition to its quality products, YORK’s life cycle services include 24-hour equipment repairs and proactive maintenance. Opt for a tiered service plan that fits your budget, including regular service schedules, routine diagnostics and complete retrofits to maintain various components. Over 3,000 YORK dealers in the U.S. are trained on its equipment. This allows it to provide superior service and support for your rental property’s HVAC system. On its website, you can search for a Certified Comfort Expert near you.  Many YORK products are eligible for energy efficiency rebates, helping you save money and improve your building’s sustainability. All YORK products also come with standard warranties and extended coverage options for specific equipment when you register your system within 90 days of purchase.  Key Features 5. Lennox Lennox is a popular commercial and residential HVAC brand known for its cutting-edge climate solutions. Enter your ZIP code to search for a dealer. Independent partners maintain North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification and have completed 40 hours of factory training. Its award-winning products come with SilentComfort technology for quieter operation and two-stage cooling that is more even and longer-running.To match superior engineering efficiency with affordable pricing, Lennox distributors typically offer rebates and financing options to help lower costs.  Landlords of multiple multifamily properties can use the manufacturer’s National Account Services program for preventive maintenance, repairs and replacements. All products come with a basic five-year warranty. However, you can also choose the extended warranty for another five years of coverage. Key Features 6. Carrier Carrier has raised the bar in HVAC innovations by improving indoor comfort with climate solutions and building automation. Authorized dealers are experts in local weather patterns and brand inventory, helping you decide the best products for your property. Its online system recommendation tool suggests several options that would work best for you.  With Carrier, you can benefit from more balanced humidity and moisture management. The Ideal Humidity System technology removes up to 400% more air moisture than similar systems. Its product designs include compressor sound blankets and rubber compressor isolation grommets for 50% quieter operation. This manufacturer tests each product rigorously under extreme conditions to ensure long-lasting performance and durability, including salt spray, high humidity, and significantly high and low temperatures. Carrier offers a 10-year parts replacement warranty on registered products to further guarantee their quality.  Key Features 7. American Standard  American Standard has an extensive inventory of heating and cooling equipment, ductless systems and packaged systems to ensure optimal air quality and comfort at your rental property. This brand stands out for installing over 5 million units and rigorously testing products at its Systems Extreme Environmental Testing laboratory. Search

Legrand UK & Ireland has launched a state-of-the-art lighting control platform, designed to meet the needs of diverse buildings, including high-end office developments, sports stadia, large hospitals and other major infrastructure developments. Wattstopper PLUS, powered by Encelium technology, offers a platform that works with Legrand’s range of CP Electronics DALI-2 sensors and supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2. DALI-2 compliant, it can be installed in wired, wireless and hybrid configurations, making it easy to add new floors or buildings to existing systems. Wattstopper PLUS is especially flexible because it is compatible with all DALI dimmable and non-dimmable luminaires. As a result, it not only offers an excellent solution for new developments, but also for renovation works. Further compounding the benefits of Wattstopper PLUS, a substantial element of the commissioning work can be carried out off-site, thanks to the use of a system database that mimics the real-world. As a result, disruption to other construction work or building operations can be kept to a minimum, with ensuing cost savings. Moreover, Wattstopper PLUS supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2, as energy usage from lighting can be calculated and reported in line with the latest statutory requirements.  Russell Vanstone, Product Manager – Connected Buildings, said: “Meeting the needs of occupants with quality lighting that continually adjusts according to changing conditions through the day can have a major impact on both wellbeing and energy consumption. Getting lighting right is critical to the success of any major development or renovation project. “Wattstopper PLUS draws upon Legrand’s decades of experience in lighting, digital building products, including sensor technologies, to deliver a high-end lighting system that caters for projects with the most stringent demands for quality lighting controls. “Our full-service project support guides projects from concept to completion with tailored solutions and end-to-end technical support. We’re on hand to assist consultants and specifiers with system layouts, integration advice and application planning, and we’re able to manage project delivery, supporting timelines, logistics and coordination. Our expert commissioning team configures and programs the system to meet performance expectations and, even after installation is complete, we offer remote and on-site support, diagnostics and servicing for the full lifecycle of the building.” Legrand will be showcasing its range of Connected Buildings products at LiGHT25 this year. Visit stand T14 for a demonstration and to find out more. To find out more about Wattstopper PLUS, please visit Legrand.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals