MILAN, Italy — The battle for the European heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) market has reached a fever pitch as South Korean tech giants Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics showcase their latest heat pump strategies at MCE (Mostra Convegno Expocomfort) 2026.

As Europe accelerates its decarbonization efforts, the demand for eco-friendly heat pumps—which replace traditional fossil fuel boilers—is skyrocketing. Both companies are utilizing the four-day exhibition to present specialized solutions tailored to stringent European environmental regulations.

Samsung: Synergies with FlaktGroup and AI Efficiency
Samsung Electronics is making its first joint appearance with FlaktGroup, the European HVAC leader it acquired last November. The centerpiece of their exhibit is a high-efficiency system connecting FlaktGroup’s indoor units with Samsung’s DVM S2+ outdoor units, managed by an AI-driven Building Management System (BMS).

Samsung is also targeting high-value industrial sectors, such as data centers and cleanrooms, with its 'CAIRplus' air handling units. For the residential market, the company introduced the 'EHS All-in-One', which uses R32 refrigerant to reduce Global Warming Potential (GWP) by 68% compared to conventional models.

LG: Total Home Solutions and Ultra-Low GWP Refrigerants
LG Electronics is countering with a "Total Solution" strategy that integrates heating, cooling, and hot water. Following its acquisition of the European premium water tank specialist OSO, LG now offers a complete lineup consisting of outdoor units, indoor units, and water tanks.

LG’s flagship product, the 'Therma V R290 Monobloc', features the R290 refrigerant with an exceptionally low GWP of just 0.02. LG also unveiled three new indoor units designed for space-constrained European apartments, including a 'Combi Unit' with an integrated 200-liter water tank.

"We are accelerating our push into the European heat pump market with integrated systems that combine cooling, heating, and hot water," said Lee Jae-sung, President of LG Electronics Air Solution Business Unit. "We will strengthen our leadership in the B2B sector by offering differentiated competitiveness throughout the entire lifecycle, from installation to maintenance."