If you are interested in energy efficiency and climate change, make sure to check out the HVAC industry. With new technological advances, they are taking steps to help conserve energy use and help fight global warming. Most homes and businesses in Texas and across the country have some form of an HVAC system to help regulate the temperature. The following are the top five ways HVAC is helping to act on climate change.
1) High-efficiency systems
The technologies used in some units today had their primary innovations developed decades ago! According to research from McKinsey & Company, increasing the efficiency of heating and cooling units – which is what HVAC does – can reduce carbon emissions by up to 20% worldwide. This means there’s room for improvement since new building designs have increased our ability to control temperature without wasting so much energy. Manufacturers like Carrier Corporation have found ways to make their systems even more efficient using Variable Frequency Drives.
2) More heating and cooling with less energy use
HVAC units are responsible for about 20% of the United States’ total energy consumption. But you can do your part in reducing that number by taking advantage of programs like Direct Install, which allows you to get a high-efficiency unit installed for no additional cost (compared to having your old system removed). Just remember that it may only be possible if your current installation adheres to specific standards.
3) Using alternative power sources
For some, powering their HVAC systems with renewable energy is important because they believe greenhouse gasses are causing climate change. For this reason, many people want to reduce their energy consumption as much as possible. If you’re interested in this option, finding a contractor who offers it is pretty simple since most manufacturers now include solar and wind power options.
4) Using zoning to control the temperature
Temperature-controlled spaces like office buildings require large HVAC units that need constant cooling and heating to maintain a certain temperature. This sometimes makes their electricity bills skyrocket and wastes more energy than necessary. Luckily, technology has developed smart zoning tools that allow for smaller systems to be installed with the ability to only heat or cool specific zones that are occupied. This reduces energy use by up to 80%.
5) Ductless Mini Split Systems
For homes and even some business spaces, ductless split systems are becoming popular. Also known as mini-splits, this energy-efficient system is perfect for areas that cannot accommodate a central HVAC unit. This is because the outdoor unit only needs to be installed in an area close by where it can connect with tubing inside of walls or through small holes drilled into concrete floors. The indoor unit can be placed right outside the zone that requires cooling or heating.
Now that you know more about how certain air conditioning and heating services companies work towards sustainable technology, you’ll know what type of installation to look for when purchasing an HVAC system for your home or business.
The Most Energy Efficient HVAC Units
There are many different types of HVAC units in the market today, making it difficult for homeowners to choose the right fit. If you’re looking for a system with high efficiency and low energy use, then an HVAC unit with a SEER rating is what you need.
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measurement in the United States that indicates how much cooling output (in British thermal units per hour) each air conditioner provides during its typical annual usage period-the more cooling output, the higher the ratio. The higher the SEER rating, the greater your unit’s ability to maintain a comfortable temperature while using less electricity. In fact, air conditioners purchased today have a minimum SEER of 13, which means they are at least 13% more efficient than units manufactured in 2005.
1) High SEER rating
The most energy-efficient air conditioners available have a SEER of 20 or higher. Before purchasing an HVAC unit with this high SEER rating, make sure it is cost-effective by comparing the initial purchase price to the long-term savings you’ll enjoy from reduced electricity use.
2) Greater efficiency saves money
Today’s new air conditioning units are much more energy-efficient than older systems. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient solution that won’t break your budget, installing a new system can get you one step closer to reaching that goal while also staying comfortable year-round!
3) Mini-Split HVAC Systems
Although they are not the most energy-efficient HVAC systems available, mini-split air conditioners do offer many benefits, including; low installation cost, reduced noise pollution, and high levels of comfort. With that said, some models do provide excellent energy efficiency while maintaining comfort levels in certain zones.
4) ENERGY STAR® Qualified Air Conditioning Units
If you want to get the best possible HVAC system for your money with additional federal tax credits and utility rebates, an ENERGY STAR® qualified unit may be what you need. These types of units meet or exceed federal guidelines, which help lower energy consumption while still providing cooling or heating services to keep you comfortable year-round.
5) Commercial HVAC Systems
Large commercial HVAC systems are designed to help reduce energy consumption and provide higher levels of comfort throughout your entire business. With that said, commercial air conditioning systems will vary in SEER depending on the size and scope of your project. However, it is important to note that many larger businesses opt for high-efficiency units with SEER ratings over 20.
The increasing number of green HVAC companies popping up around North America shows how much this industry cares about helping protect the environment through sustainable technology (e.g., using renewable resources like solar power). Contact an HVAC contractor near you to learn more about what type of system may be right for you!
Of course, there are other ways you can help reduce your carbon footprint, such as increasing vehicle fuel efficiency and using more environmentally friendly cleaners around the home. It’s important to remember that taking steps to slow down global warming is a collective effort!