Gradient seeks to bring the benefits of mini-split systems - variable speed drive, efficient operation, heat pump heating - to a wider audience, by simplifying the installation process. Gradient offers a design that is installed in a window, but it has more similarities to mini-split systems than to a window air conditioner.
simple installation
The system is designed for simple installation by a layman – it generally takes about 15 minutes. Using heat pump technology, Gradient has the efficiency and power of professionally installed products, with similar features, at a lower price point.
Our product is installed through a window, but still allows users to open and close the window"
“Historically, a mini-split has not been feasible for every situation,” said Vince Romanin, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gradient (formerly Treau), adding “They need to be professionally installed, which can be expensive.”
He further stated, “They also are not an option for renters or buildings that are not retrofitted. Our product is installed through a window, but still allows users to open and close the window and get natural light.”
Gradient unit featuring modular design
The Gradient unit resembles a bench with two thick supports that hang over a windowsill. The modular design places the power and noise outside the window.
It may look like an ultra-modern window unit, but it provides more than cooling. The system’s heat pump can be used all year round, as a heating system for homes in moderate climates (where the temperature is usually 46°F or higher), and to supplement a main heat source in colder climates.
Focus on full building electrification
Vince Romanin adds, “Our focus is on full building electrification. This product is an important stepping stone toward our long-term roadmap of cold climate heat pumps that enable the removal of fossil fuels in heating buildings.”
Gradient seeks to address the environmental impact of current HVAC systems. Forty-eight percent of all energy consumption in American homes is a result of cooling and heating. HVAC is a major contributor to climate change, due to the refrigerants they use and their use of fossil fuels. As the climate changes, the need for heating and cooling systems increases, thereby creating a vicious cycle.
Advanced heat pump technology
Gradient breaks the cycle with products that allow you to be cool and comfortable without heating the planet"
“Gradient breaks the cycle with products that allow you to be cool and comfortable without heating the planet, using heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant,” said Vince Romanin, adding “It is engineered to be easy-to-install and easy-to-use from anywhere, thanks to a mobile app.”
“HVAC installers currently require extra time and equipment to install traditional mini-splits. The Gradient system is faster and cheaper because it is self-installed,” explains Vince Romanin, adding “The long-term impact of this additional option for consumers can help installers serve more customers in less time and at lower costs.”
Heat pump/air conditioner using climate-friendly refrigerants
HVAC, in general, is a major contributor to climate change, due to the refrigerants that they use and also contributed to their use of fossil fuels. Current heating and cooling systems release about 9 Gigatons tons of carbon dioxide equivalents each year, which is around 20% of all emissions and more than the entire transportation sector.
Gradient offers a heat pump/air conditioner that uses climate-friendly refrigerants, thus reducing heating and cooling emissions by up to 75% today, and by 99% in the next few years. The system is also attractive and easy to use.
Gradient expects the system to emit 75% less direct and indirect carbon emissions than today’s systems. This is based on using more environmentally friendly refrigerants, being more efficient, and displacing fossil fuel heating with electric heat pump heating.
Fully decarbonized heating and cooling system
Vince Romanin said, “Our end goal is a fully decarbonized heating and cooling system, which we expect to get to, by continuing to push for more environmentally friendly refrigerants, pushing our heating capability into colder climates, and building demand response into our system, so that it can work better with grid renewables.”
High interest in the new product is testament to the power of sustainability as a marketing feature"
“High interest in the new product is testament to the power of sustainability as a marketing feature,” comments Vince Romanin, adding “We believe that good business and carbon reduction are not mutually exclusive. In the long term, creating a better environment in which to live is the best way to create the best environment for doing business.”
There are also uses in commercial and multi-unit housing applications. The company is already in conversation with several commercial customers, ranging from multi-unit housing, hotels, and schools among others. Large commercial buildings in New York City will be required to meet new energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions limits by 2024.
Solution to mitigate Costs of changing building infrastructure
Gradient offers a solution to mitigate the costs of changing major building infrastructure, to in order accommodate new HVAC systems. The system does not require an electrical upgrade or new ductwork, and installation does not damage the exterior of the building.
Currently, Gradient is available for pre-order across the United States of America (USA), with deliveries beginning from July 1, 2022. The company envisions expanding to additional markets in the future.