6 Energy-Efficient HVAC Trends

Where is the HVAC Industry Headed?

Every year, we see new developments in the world of technology and home comfort. In the HVAC industry, the most prominent focus has been on finding solutions that deliver more efficient heating and cooling, with the goal of cutting costs and protecting the environment. Smart, green technologies are earning worldwide respect, and the industry should continue seeing significant growth all the way through to 2020.

As consumers search for more efficient homes, the trend for greener HVAC solutions continues onward. We’ll take a look at some of the most popular trends, from radiant heat to smart systems.

1. Ductless Air Conditioning

Ductless air conditioning units are not new, but mini-splits are only just beginning to become popular in the U.S. These unique AC units can provide everything from zoned heating solutions to whole-house temperature control. A ductless system is energy efficient because it can deliver 30% savings or more in heating and cooling bills. What’s more, thanks to the ability to have one condensing unit outside but four or more wall units inside, these systems offer extensive flexibility when it comes to customizing the indoor temperature of different parts of your home.

2. Geothermal Temperature Control

An old-fashioned option that’s beginning to gather momentum, geothermal HVAC products have been around since the 1940s. However, the use of these products has only begun to grow in popularity recently as a result of the green movement. A geothermal pump uses heat from the Earth via looped piping fitted into the ground. During the colder months, the fluid in the pipes moves underground and absorbs heat from the ground, before bringing that heat back into the home or property.

3. Radiant Heat Solutions

Radiant heat simply refers to a heating process that requires no ductwork. As we’ve learned with ductless air conditioning solutions, without the ductwork, it’s possible to eliminate huge sources of energy loss almost immediately. Radiant heat solutions can also deliver a more balanced comfort level indoors. According to ASHRAE, even at lower temperatures, radiant heat is often more comfortable than a forced-air solution.

4. Green Construction

Solutions for energy efficient heating and cooling don’t have to begin only after a property is built. Across the world, the construction industry has begun to invest in energy-efficient solutions that allow AC systems and heating solutions to work more efficiently within a property.

These green buildings make the most of designs intended to carefully absorb and distribute heat so that electrical devices don’t have to work as hard. Additionally, they often come with plenty of air filters that help to provide clean air, protecting the HVAC and reducing energy use.

5. Smart Homes

In recent years, we’ve begun to discover new and exciting applications for technology throughout the home. Devices that can communicate with each other are making our lives simpler, more convenient, and energy-efficient. The smart home market is expected to reach a value of $80 billion by 2022, and a smart thermostat can allow you to control the temperature in your property from an app.

This means that homeowners can control the temperature of their house when they’re at work, and they’ll never have to worry about forgetting to turn the heating off. Many systems even allow you to print out energy reports each month to show you where you’re using the most energy.

6. Variable Speed Air Conditioning

Finally, the technology used in variable speed solutions for air conditioning provide homeowners and property owners with a chance to adapt their heating and cooling preferences according to their needs with the highest level of efficiency. Unlike standard systems, variable speed options allow you to handle your heating and cooling cycles more precisely, because the system automatically changes to adapt to the needs of your home. According to research, simply switching to a variable speed solution could save homeowners as much as 40% on energy costs each year.

Adapting With the Times

As the world progresses towards greater convenience and comfort, and with new technologies always on the horizon, it makes sense that the HVAC industry would continue to evolve. From thermostat solutions that learn your preferences and adapt to your home, to greener homes designed to support your HVAC systems, there are plenty of ways to make your home more environmentally friendly.

Combined with other green-living solutions, the HVAC systems of tomorrow should deliver greater efficiency and comfort without damaging the earth.

Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating services HVAC systems made by all brands. We can ensure that your unit is performing efficiently to the best of its ability. Get in touch with us today.