Interview with Andrew Zong, CEO of PHNIX
PHNIX once again makes its commitment to Piscina Barcelona as a strategic showcase for unveiling its latest innovations and consolidating its presence in the European market. At this edition, the Chinese firm is rolling out its new AI-powered R290 heat pump for swimming pools, a development that combines sustainability, energy savings and advanced technology. The company thus reinforces its commitment to the decarbonisation of industry and the transition to more responsible energy consumption. In the interview, PHNIX CEO Andrew Zong unpacks the keys to this technological commitment, the trends that will shape the industry’s future and the role that Europe has to play in the company’s global roadmap. Under his leadership, the company has promoted a renewed brand strategy and driven major international launches.
– PHNIX remains faithful to having a presence at the Piscina Barcelona show. How important is the fair for the company and what strategic goals have you set for this edition?
Piscina Barcelona is a key global platform for the swimming pool industry. For PHNIX, it represents a crucial opportunity to showcase innovation, strengthen our brand presence and deepen our relationship with customers and partners. This year, our strategic objectives include the launch of our new R290 swimming pool heat pump with artificial intelligence, the expansion of our partnerships in Europe and the reinforcement of our commitment to sustainable solutions.
– As you mentioned, one of the main launches is the new R290 swimming pool heat pump. What differential value does this innovation bring to the market and how does it fit into PHNIX’s sustainability strategy?
The new R290 heat pump uses propane as a refrigerant, with virtually zero global warming potential (GWP), and it improves energy efficiency by more than 30% over conventional models. It offers the customer significant operational savings, while dovetailing perfectly into PHNIX’s sustainability strategy: to drive the decarbonisation of the industry through cutting-edge, environmentally friendly technology.
– How is PHNIX applying AI in the development of its heat pumps and what specific improvements does it bring in terms of efficiency, maintenance or user experience?
PHNIX incorporates AI in heat pumps for intelligent temperature control, predictive maintenance and energy optimisation. Our AI algorithms adapt to user behaviour, weather conditions and compressor frequency, improving energy savings by more than 25%. They also enable remote diagnostics and proactive service alerts, increasing reliability and improving the user experience.
– What major trends do you foresee in the global pool heat pump market in the coming years, especially in Europe, and how is PHNIX preparing to lead these changes?
In Europe we see a clear transition towards high efficiency products and refrigerants with low global warming potential. PHNIX is leading this transformation with investments in natural refrigerant solutions as well as smart and connected systems. We are readying ourselves for future demand through continuous R&D and a flexible, customer-focused supply chain.
– PHNIX has a strong international presence. Which markets are currently priority markets and what role does Europe play in the company’s growth roadmap?
Europe remains a key strategic market for PHNIX, particularly in the south and west of the continent, where sustainability regulations are advancing rapidly. We are strengthening our local support and distribution channels, while expanding in North America and Asia-Pacific to ensure balanced global growth.
– Sustainability is a key driver in the pool and heating industries. What is PHNIX’s vision of the role of heat pumps in the transition to more responsible energy consumption?
Heat pumps are essential to the global energy transition. At PHNIX we believe they offer a clean and renewable alternative to conventional heating systems. We are committed to advancing heat pump technology to help customers reduce their carbon emissions and contribute to global climate goals.
– Finally, what message would you like to convey to visitors and professionals who come to the PHNIX stand during Piscina Barcelona?
We invite all visitors to come to the PHNIX stand to discover our latest innovations in AI and R290 products. Let’s explore together how smart and sustainable pool solutions can shape the future of our industry.
Cristina Benavides
Piscina Barcelona contributor
