Whether you’ve been in the HVAC business for 10 months or 10 years, you undoubtedly understand the importance of keeping abreast with the latest in industry trends. It can be a do or die proposition. Not always, of course. But it’s necessary to keep an eye on.
So what trends are we following in the industry?
Smart Thermostats
Everything is going “smart” these days—phones, TVs, home alarm systems and yes, even thermostats. That doesn’t mean you should rush right out and buy one. But the technology is moving that way. This trend should be of particular importance to people with pets (or even small children, if you don’t trust the sitter to keep your temperature controls in mind).
Away from the home or office and want to make sure the temperature inside is at a stable, comfortable level? Just check your phone and make any necessary adjustments from there. Done.
This level of technology also helps ensure your energy consumption levels are more closely monitored, regardless of season. Not only do you have the thermostat wherever you go, but the smart variety can even determine times when your home or office is occupied and actually in need of heat or air. Smart thermostats are also generally capable of recording external temperatures and the amount of time your system has been on and running, in addition to alerting you to upcoming maintenance needs.
Geothermal
Ever wanted the cooler temperatures of the underground to work for your whole house, and not just that musty basement or den? Geothermal might be the answer for you. Of course—and as the name implies—the process also works for heating your home in the winter as well.
But while the long term operational costs associated with geothermal pumps are indeed lower than that of conventional HVAC units, the upfront costs are much steeper. As such, it can take a decade or more to realize any savings. Keep this in mind.
Solar
You might also try looking to the heavens for help with those HVAC bills. In that case, solar is another possible option. As with geothermal, the upfront costs are necessary to consider.
There are two ways of going about harnessing solar energy. One works by supplementing your existing HVAC system with solar panels. Any unused energy can be redirected to other household appliances. The other is a complete system overhaul. The latter can save even more on AC bills (40-60 percent as compared with conventional AC units), but comes with, you guessed it, an added cost up front.
DeVAP
Desiccant enhanced evaporate (DeVAP) is another form of sustainable energy making the rounds. A U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-patented technology, this form of cooling is reported by the DOE as using up to 90 percent less electricity and 80 percent less energy than conventional AC.
As is the case with geothermal and solar, the upfront investment is wherein lies the rub. But the DOE has reported cost savings to arrive in roughly three years, as opposed to the decade-plus you’re looking at with geothermal technology. Evaporative cooling works better in dryer climates, but DeVAP was designed with this limitation in mind—adding a material to absorb moisture before the final cooling process.
Ductless HVAC Systems
If you can’t duct it, um, go without it? That’s right. Ductless HVAC systems are yet another option. These systems work by connecting indoor and outdoor units with refrigerant tubing and electrical wiring. They can be a good option for older buildings where space is limited and duct work would be too costly to repair or re-engineer.
Commercial HVAC Installation, Repair, and Maintenance in East Tennessee
Trying to keep up with the latest in the HVAC industry isn’t your job. It’s ours. A trained HVAC professional can help. Whether you need a commercial HVAC system installed in a new construction, your old HVAC system needs to be replaced, or you just have questions about your next step, City Heating and Air Conditioning can help. Our HVAC experts can determine the right type and size of commercial HVAC system for your space and properly install it. We also provide routine maintenance and repair services on your HVAC systems to make sure they’re always in top working order. For over 50 years, City Heating and Air Conditioning has been entrusted by East Tennesseans to provide honest and dependable heating and cooling services. Reach out to us today at 865-938-1005 or online at cityheatandair.com to get the best heating and cooling services in Knoxville, TN.