Step into the Future of HVAC with These 7 Trends
The HVAC industry today is witnessing major changes. Improvements in smart technologies and automation are driving the shift. Similarly, consumer demands related to energy efficiency, eco-friendliness and health are creating change. Homeowners who wish to keep up with the future should watch these seven HVAC trends.
1. Energy Efficiency
New HVAC technologies typically use less energy, lowering your utility bills and reducing wear and tear on your home’s HVAC system. One example is variable refrigerant flow systems, which adjust energy use through refrigerant flow depending on how much heating or cooling is needed. If the need is low, the system cuts the refrigerant flow to save energy.
There is also growing interest in high-efficiency equipment. Heat pumps are a notably good choice for heating efficiency in California because they run well in climates that don’t experience extreme cold conditions. For added efficiency, homeowners should look at systems like heat- and energy-recovery ventilation. These systems capture and reuse energy that would otherwise go to waste. These energy-efficient upgrades can lower your bills and make your home much more environmentally-friendly.
2. Smart Home Technology
Modern HVAC systems are rapidly becoming smarter and easier to use. Many now work with smart home systems. For example, a smart thermostat installation allows you to adjust your home’s temperature with voice commands or through an app on your phone. Similar solutions integrate with home automation and security systems, and there are even versions that can interact with the voice assistant in your vehicle. Whether you’re at home or away, controlling your HVAC system is as simple as tapping a screen or stating a command.
Some smart systems come with remote monitoring, reporting and diagnostics. These features help identify problems early, meaning repairs happen sooner and lead to less downtime. You also can monitor energy usage issues and configure your HVAC to run at the right times of the day to keep your utility bills down.
3. Indoor Air Quality and Air Filtration
Indoor air quality is a big concern for many homeowners, and HVAC systems are incorporating solutions to meet demand. Many HVACs now come with advanced filters to remove dust, pollen and other irritants. Some systems also include UVC light technology to kill bacteria and viruses in the air. Especially if someone in your household has a health issue like COPD, severe allergies or asthma, air filtration is a trend you’ll want to follow as you make HVAC decisions.
4. Modular and Compact Design
Not all homes have room for large HVAC systems. Consequently, manufacturers are designing compact units suited to limited spaces like apartments, mini homes and accessory dwelling units. For example, ductless mini-split systems minimize the amount of the house occupied by HVAC components and ducts. These smaller systems still provide plenty of power and efficiency without the size and complexity of a central HVAC.
Modular systems are another innovation. They are easy to install, maintain and expand, making them simple and flexible. You might target a specific area where you want HVAC capacity, such as adding AC to your bedroom or a home office. You then have the option to add more modular elements down the road.
5. Green Refrigerants
The modern HVAC industry now uses greener refrigerants to reduce environmental impact. Traditional refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons are phasing out in favor of alternatives. The new options are efficient and much safer for the planet.
6. Automation and Integration
Many modern HVAC systems can connect to whole-house automation platforms. This allows centralized control of heating, cooling and ventilation, which is especially useful in larger homes. Automation also allows you to target specific times of the day for more efficient operation. If you won’t be home for most of a hot day, you can have the AC system keep the house fairly warm in your absence and cool it before you get home.
7. Zonal HVAC
Zonal HVAC systems are also becoming popular. Using zones ensures that you don’t waste energy heating or cooling unused spaces. Electronically-controlled dampers, fans and vents let you control the temperature and humidity in specific areas of your home. Single-room thermostats add finer control, too.
Alps Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. serves the people of Orange County and the surrounding areas. We handle a wide range of installation, repair, maintenance and upgrade projects involving heating and air conditioning systems. If you want your HVAC to keep up with major trends, contact Alps Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to discuss the available options.