Modern Conveniences Offered By New HVAC Technology
It is often through the strength of our human ingenuity that we were able to solve perplexing problems. It has also enabled us to adapt to different environments, from woodlands to deserts, from plateaus to mountainsides. Human ingenuity is also the reason why we have developed technology that is applicable to many aspects of our lives. When it comes to comfort, we owe a lot to technology that we have developed over the years. The HVAC industry is a prime example of this. In the past, we needed to cut wood to heat up our homes. Today, we merely have to push a few buttons on the thermostat to enjoy a warm, comfortable house. During the last 10 years, we have benefited from tremendous improvements in our comfort and power consumption thanks to HVAC technology.
Changes In HVAC Technology
Here are the most important changes ever made in the HVAC industry courtesy of technology:
1. Increased HVAC Equipment Efficiency
HVAC systems were quite uncommon in the past because they were expensive. Aside from the cost of the unit/s, using HVAC systems for prolonged periods was also costly. It also did not help that HVAC equipment designs back then made them bulky and required a large amount of space.
Thanks to technology, modern HVAC equipment has become increasingly energy-efficient. Air conditioners no longer consume a lot of energy just to cool down rooms. As such, using air conditioners no longer meant having to face large energy bills. It meant enjoying comfort without spending a considerable amount of money. Furnaces also require less fuel to keep homes warm during winter. Eco-conscious consumers also enjoy the low environmental impact that modern HVAC equipment has.
2. Phase-Out Of R-22 Refrigerant
Refrigerants or coolants make cooling systems work. Unfortunately, older types of refrigerants such as freon proved to be damaging to the ozone layer. The ozone layer is a part of the atmosphere that absorbs a good amount of ultraviolet rays from the sun. When the ozone is depleted, more UV rays pass through the atmosphere. This increases the risk of cataracts and skin cancer, among other health issues. Unfiltered UV rays also affect materials, plants, and marine life adversely.
To prevent further damage to the ozone layer, manufacturers had to find better solutions that had less ecological impact. This led to the ban on the use of the R-22 refrigerant in 2010. By 2020, a total ban was imposed on the R-22, which means it is no longer being manufactured. As such, older systems either had to be replaced with newer models or retrofitted so they could be used on better options such as the R-410a that is more eco-friendly.
3. Smart HVAC Technology
Tech companies have been at the forefront of promoting technology that creates smart homes. Modern appliances now offer many conveniences such as Internet and smartphone connectivity. This makes it possible to check and monitor the status of the appliances from a remote location. It is even possible to control the settings on the appliances even when you are away from home. Let’s say you left home for a vacation and forgot to turn off the air conditioner. With smart technology, you can log into your system, check the equipment and turn off the appliance from wherever you may be. That way, you do not have to pay for energy you do not need or use. This type of technology also gives you the convenience of turning on the AC or furnace a few minutes before you come home so your home is comfortable when you arrive.
4. Ductless Heating & Cooling Systems
Ductless systems have increasingly become quite popular among many home and business owners. Older HVAC systems use a network of ducts to deliver conditioned air to multiple spaces. Unfortunately, the installation of ductwork may not always be a practical option, especially for older homes. To avoid the cost and hassle of a massive renovation, getting a ductless system is a far better option. Ductless systems, also known as ductless heat pumps or mini-splits, are composed of indoor and outdoor units. With ductless heat pumps, you are also assured of having access to heat during the winter months. Ductless systems offer several benefits, such as system efficiency, noise reduction, and better temperature control.
5. HVAC Zoning Systems
Another excellent piece of technology that comes with modern HVAC systems is zoning. Zoning is an excellent solution for heating and cooling multiple rooms in multi-level homes or structures. HVAC zoning systems work remarkably well for homes where there are rooms that require more cooling and heating, such as those that are located far from the main vents or on the east-south side where spaces receive more light and heat. Zoning allows independent heating and cooling of rooms and spaces, which is not only convenient but energy-saving as well. It is also possible to install dampers across the ducts to ensure better comfort regardless of the time of day.
6. Sensor-Based Ventilation
Smart ventilation systems emerged in 2016, allowing homeowners to keep track of the airflow in different vents. Having the capability to monitor airflow is advantageous because it makes finding obstructions and blockages easier. Smart systems allow you to turn off specific vents so you can control how much heating or cooling a certain room or space receives. Plus, you can even automate certain tasks using sensor data.
7. Variable-Speed Compressors
One of the best types of HVAC technology advances to ever be produced is the variable-speed compressor. It translates to systems with higher energy efficiency, better humidity control, improved temperature management, and lower noise levels. Variable-speed compressors can slow down when the load is light and speed up when the load is heavy. They also do not undergo a starting surge, so the quality of the power supply is enhanced. Variable-speed compressors are also more durable. They offer better comfort and the high efficiency means they have a lower running cost.
Conclusion
Technological progress is indeed astounding. Each year, we look forward to bigger and better innovations that allow us to solve common problems and improve the quality of our lives. The possibilities provided by the modern HVAC system are the products of this technological progress. If you have an HVAC system that has been running for the last 10 years or so, why not replace it with a high-efficiency system that offers better comfort and improved energy savings options? Older systems are often prone to breakdowns, which means they require frequent repairs. Replacing your old HVAC system will help you avoid the inconvenience and cost of breakdowns and high energy consumption.
Call Townsend Energy For Superior Heating & Cooling Solutions
Townsend Energy prioritizes our clients’ comfort and safety while ensuring that we work within their budget. We offer the most competitive HVAC services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Maine. Our HVAC-certified technicians are highly skilled and experienced. They can perform a range of services, from heating and cooling tune-ups and installations to replacements and repairs. We keep ourselves updated about the latest technology in the market so we can ensure that our clients receive only the very best. Give Townsend Energy a call today and ask about our free in-home estimate.
Contact us now at (800) 722-4101 to find out more!