DOE

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS), a major supplier of Ductless and Ducted Mini-split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat pump and air-conditioning systems, has become the first manufacturer to receive the Energy Skilled recognition from the Department of Energy (DOE) for its Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising training program. workforce training recognition The DOE launched the workforce training recognition program to support the development of a robust building systems workforce in the United States. Company programs recognized as energy-skilled offer training and certifications to prepare workers with the knowledge and skills to support residential electrification and energy efficiency. enhance and optimize training “Here at METUS, we are committed to leading the charge to reduce the use of fossil fuels in the spaces we live and work,” said Brent Constant, Senior Director of Technical Solutions, adding “Contractors are an essential component of how we accomplish that goal. With that in mind, we are always looking for new ways to enhance and optimize our training facilities and strategies.” Series 2-day instructor-led Essentials Course The M&P - Series Essentials Course can be completed at a METUS training center HVAC contractors who have completed the METUS M&P - Series 2-day instructor-led Essentials Course since July 2019 can achieve the Energy Skilled Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising certificate of completion by participating in a 2-hour supplemental online training session. The M&P - Series Essentials Course can be completed at a METUS training center or one of the 100+ distributor-operated METUS-authorized training centers. Since July 2019, over 15,000 contractors have completed the M&P - Series Essentials Course. Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising Certificate Contractors who have yet to complete the M&P - Series Essentials Course can achieve the Energy Skilled Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising certificate of completion in one of two ways: a combination of the M&P – Series instructor-led Essentials Course and the 2-hour supplemental online session or a longer instructional program based entirely online. With the Energy Skilled designation, contractors who complete the METUS Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising training program can feel confident in their vital role of helping Americans make home updates that increase their comfort. residential energy-efficient and electrification Additionally, the Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) Program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) 50123, makes $200 million available to state energy offices to train, test and certify residential energy-efficient and electrification contractors. Also known as the State-Based Home Energy Efficiency Contractor Training Grants, TREC will implement innovative workforce development programs to train workers to make homes healthier and more energy efficient.

ATMOsphere, the publisher of NaturalRefrigerants.com, has finalized the program for the ATMOsphere (ATMO) America Summit 2024 on natural refrigerant-based cooling and heating, with sessions on refrigeration and heat pump case studies, end users, market trends, project funding, training, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and policy; famed environmental attorney Robert Bilott will deliver the keynote.  13th ATMO America This 13th annual edition of ATMO America will be held Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11, at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. Attending will be key industry experts, including manufacturers, policymakers, end users, and contractors to learn about the latest developments in natural refrigerant-based systems. End users can register for free, and contractors/installers of HVAC&R systems are eligible to receive one free ticket per organization, with a 50% discount on additional tickets. refrigeration and heat pump case studies Flow Environmental Systems and Lawrence Berkeley National Labs will deliver case studies on CO2-based heat pump applications A wide range of refrigeration and heat pump case studies involving the use of CO2 (R744), propane (R290), and ammonia (R717) as refrigerants will be presented by industry-pioneering companies. Energy Recovery, Kysor Warren and Kroger; Copeland and Future Green; Hillphoenix; Güntner, Zero Zone and Amond World; VEIC; and Zero Zone and Coolsys will present CO2-based refrigeration case studies. In addition, Dorin; Hillphoenix and Flō Energy Solutions; Intellihot; Flow Environmental Systems, and Lawrence Berkeley National Labs will deliver case studies on CO2-based heat pump applications. Other related case studies will be presented by Axiom Cloud and Ratio Institute.  propane-based refrigeration, ammonia absorption heat pump Delivering case study presentations on propane-based refrigeration will be Tecumseh and TruMed; Embraco and Structural Concepts; and VEIC. Ammonia-based refrigeration case studies will be presented by Evapco and ColonialWebb jointly, as well as Smart Care. An ammonia absorption heat pump case study will be offered by Stone Mountain Technologies.  Event highlights Other technology highlights include:  End users will share their experiences using different types of natural refrigerant technologies, including benefits, challenges, and plans. Speakers will include Bob Siler, Operations Engineer, Amazon; Megan Rodriguez, Senior Manager of Refrigeration, Grocery Outlet; Aer Teale, Director of Engineering, Lineage Logistics; and a representative of General Refrigeration.  The latest natural refrigeration market trends in North America will be discussed by representatives of Hillphoenix, Hussmann, Copeland, Kysor Warren Epta US, and Johnson Controls–Frick/M&M Carnot. Heat Pump Market Trends: the latest market trends related to natural refrigerant heat pumps in North America will be addressed by Andy Baker, Owner & Project Manager of YourCleanEnergy. Training Panel: Natural refrigerants-based training and certification opportunities will be discussed by Rusty Walker, Training Director, North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC), and Jim Barron, Executive Director, Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association (RETA).  PFAS and policy  Bilott’s keynote will be followed by a PFAS and global warming panel discussion The link between PFAS and refrigerants will be a focus of ATMOsphere America. Robert Bilott, the pioneering U.S. environmental attorney, will open the conference with a keynote on how he exposed the global threat of PFAS, with lessons for the cooling and heating industry. Bilott’s keynote will be followed by a PFAS and global warming panel discussion including Richie Kaur, Non-CO2 Climate Pollution Reduction Advocate, Climate & Energy, for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC); Mindi Messmer, Senior Research Scientist for MedStar Health and former New Hampshire State House Representative; Gabriel Salierno, Green Chemist for the Toxics Use Reduction Institute; and a representative of ATMOsphere.  policy and standards session In addition, a policy and standards session will discuss developments impacting the uptake of natural refrigerants in North America. Speakers will include:  A representative of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s StratosphericProtection Division at the Office of Atmospheric Programs, will provide an update on the U.S. AIM Act. Ram Narayanamurthy, Deputy Director, Building Technologies Office, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Suzanne Hagell, Chief of the GHG Mitigation Bureau, Office of Climate Change, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.   Beth Porter, Senior Climate Policy Analyst, Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA). Dr. Rajan Rajendran, Advisor – EIA, Five Rivers Research and Consulting.   Tony Lundell, Senior Director of Standards and Safety, International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration (IIAR). funding options There will also be a session on current and future funding options for natural refrigerant-based systems There will also be a session on current and future funding options for natural refrigerant-based systems, including the $65-million California F-gas Reduction Incentive Program (FRIP), and other states actively pursuing funding programs. Presenters will include Danielle Wright, Executive Director, NASRC, and Michael FitzGibbon, Branch Chief, Research Division, California Air Resources Board (CARB). ATMO Awards/North America ceremony At the end of day one, the conference will hold the ATMO Awards/North America ceremony recognizing companies and individuals pioneering the transition to natural refrigerant-based technologies. The Platinum sponsor of ATMO America 2024 is Hillphoenix. Gold sponsors are Hussmann, Kysor Warren, Copeland, M&M Carnot and Frick.

Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) International Inc. announces the appointment of Nazme Mohsina to the position of global technical director. Mohsina, who returns to AMCA International following two years with a climate and energy consultancy, is responsible for driving consistency, integrity, and engineering quality in the establishment and application of product testing and certification requirements applied by global staff, members, and partners. Additionally, she provides leadership to achieve technical objectives and operational goals and serves as an arbitrator in technical appeals related to standards and functions. Spreadsheets of product data With a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronic engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Dayton, Mohsina got her start with AMCA International in 2011, working part-time checking manufacturer catalogs for compliance with requirements of the Certified Ratings Program (CRP). She proved to be a quick study, eventually landing a full-time position as project engineer. Mohsina volunteered to develop databases and spreadsheets of product data When the U.S. Department of Energy announced its intention to regulate fans, Mohsina volunteered to develop databases and spreadsheets of product data and to analyze the data in support of AMCA International advocacy efforts. She soon was drawn into other projects, including the development and updating of AMCA International test standards. Meanwhile, her knowledge of Middle Eastern and Indian culture proved integral to AMCA International’s growth in the Middle East. International advocacy efforts In March 2017, Mohsina was promoted to associate director of certification, a role that saw her responsible for directing the activities and managing the staff of the CRP. Her technical acumen and intense focus on member satisfaction led to her promotion to technical director in May 2019, a position that saw her responsible for the operations of the AMCA International headquarters laboratory, AMCA International independent laboratories, the AMCA International Laboratory Accreditation Program, and the CRP. In 2020, Mohsina was named to Engineered Systems magazine’s 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC list.

Intelligent power management company Eaton was awarded more than $26.6 million in investment tax credits from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service as part of the Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Tax Credit (48C) funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. The company was awarded tax credits for its manufacturing investments totaling more than $200 million to support clean energy projects and workforce training in Nacogdoches and El Paso, Texas, and Waukesha, Wisconsin. Heart of electrical systems “Eaton is accelerating and simplifying the energy transition for our customers across industries with steady investments in U.S. manufacturing and workforce education programs,” said Mike Yelton, President, Americas Region, Electrical Sector at Eaton. “Our technologies at the heart of electrical systems are essential to modernize the grid and maximize the potential of clean energy across utility, residential, industrial, commercial building and data center applications. The investments we’re making in Texas, Wisconsin and beyond will help build a stronger, more sustainable future.” Eaton voltage regulators Eaton is also working with Angelina College to establish a new workforce training curriculum In October 2023, Eaton broke ground on a $100 million expansion of its Nacogdoches, Texas manufacturing facility. Here, the company is adding 200,000 square feet to its existing manufacturing facility, doubling the production capacity of Eaton voltage regulators and creating more than 200 skilled manufacturing jobs. Eaton is also working with Angelina College to establish a new workforce training curriculum and with Stephen F. Austin State University to offer apprenticeship programs. "I am excited to see Eaton receive this substantial award to support their commitment to advancing America's energy independence and economic prosperity,” said Congressman Pete Sessions. “This $16.3 million tax credit will not only bolster Eaton's efforts in modernizing vital energy infrastructure but also bring over 200 new jobs to Nacogdoches and the East Texas region. I am proud to support Eaton’s projects in the Texas 17th Congressional District and will always stand strong for a secure energy future in America.” ideal place for manufacturing investments Eaton working closely with Western Technical College to prepare students for careers in clean energy In El Paso, Eaton is investing $80 million to significantly expand its manufacturing footprint to increase production of its circuit breakers, switchboards, panelboards, and other assemblies. The company is opening a new facility, creating more than 600 new skilled manufacturing jobs and increasing capacity at its existing manufacturing plant. Eaton is also working closely with Western Technical College to prepare students for careers in the clean energy manufacturing industry. "El Paso is an ideal place for manufacturing investments and companies that are pioneers in innovation," said Congresswoman Veronica Escobar. "Between an attractive market and a dedicated workforce, I'm thrilled that the Department of Energy and IRS are investing in our community. With funds made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act and the continued commitment of companies like Eaton, our country's potential for clean energy only continues to grow." Grid modernization solutions At the company’s largest Wisconsin manufacturing facility in Waukesha, Eaton is investing $22 million in equipment to increase the manufacturing capacity of three-phase transformers for utility, data centers, and large commercial and industrial applications. Eaton is working closely with Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) on curriculum and has constructed a dedicated training center where students can gain direct experience producing critical grid modernization solutions. Eaton is investing $22 million in tools to rise the manufacturing span of three-phase transformers “In Wisconsin, we make things. We make cheese, we make ships, we make paper, and now, we are making what is needed to power the clean energy future,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). “I was proud to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act and make investments like this that will create more family-supporting jobs and strengthen the pipeline of workers that will build the next chapter of Made in Wisconsin manufacturing.” Clean energy and infrastructure projects “Waukesha County Technical College is fortunate to have an incredibly collaborative industry partnership with Eaton that is only getting stronger,” said Rich Barnhouse, Ph.D., president of WCTC. “Eaton is a steadfast supporter of technical education, and by working in tandem, we are able to develop and implement programs and trainings that lead to workforce solutions in our region, therefore lessening the skills gap.” Eaton provides clients with the ability, education, and engineering help to guide the intricacies Eaton's deep expertise and proven track record of successful installations uniquely position the company to support clean energy and infrastructure projects. With its longtime and dedicated team focused on government projects, Eaton is providing customers with the knowledge, education, and engineering support to navigate the intricacies of federal funding and tax incentive mechanisms. Learn more about Eaton’s solutions for federal clean energy, stimulus, and infrastructure initiatives. Trends of electrification and digitalization Eaton is an intelligent power management company dedicated to protecting the environment and improving the quality of life for people everywhere. They make products for the data center, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace, and mobility markets. They are guided by the commitment to do business right, to operate sustainably, and to help the customers manage power- and well into the future. By capitalizing on the global growth trends of electrification and digitalization, they’re accelerating the planet’s transition to renewable energy sources, helping to solve the world’s most urgent power management challenges, and building a more sustainable society for people and generations to come. Eaton was founded in 1911 and has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange for more than a century. They reported revenues of $23.2 billion in 2023 and serve customers in more than 160 countries.

Statement on the newly released coal-fired power plant rules from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  “The era of coal-fired power plants spewing unabated carbon pollution is over. The health of our local communities and our global climate demands it. Though power plant emissions have fallen nearly 41 percent since 2005, significant cuts are still needed to meet the nation’s 2030 emission goals. And with electricity demand projected to soar in the coming years, the emission reductions we’ve seen so far could be reversed, further undermining our ability to meet our goals." zero-carbon power sector The EPA statement adds, “This rule takes an important step toward a zero-carbon power sector by requiring all current coal plants and new natural gas plants to cut or control 90 percent of their emissions. These cuts underscore the importance of carbon capture technologies; the International Energy Agency (IEA) has made clear that reaching net-zero will be virtually impossible without CCUS." “Putting these standards in place will bring significant economic benefits. The EPA estimates that this rule will yield a net benefit of $370 billion in economic benefits over the next twenty years." Important source of emissions The EPA statement continues, “While it’s important to clean up the nation’s electricity supply, it’s also key to ensure that clean electricity can meet the growing demand. Today’s newly announced rules from the Department of Energy for transmission permitting will offer welcome and complementary reforms to coordinate the interagency process, create categorical exclusions for projects in existing rights of way, and standardize a two-year review period for federal transmission authorizations and permits. All of these actions will help accelerate the transition to the clean and reliable power grid our economy needs to compete in the global economy." “The one place where today’s announcement falls short is by exempting existing gas-fired power plants. Cleaning up the existing fleet is crucial to decarbonizing our power sector – and to avoiding the perverse incentives that could come from focusing only on new generations. We look forward to working with EPA and other stakeholders to advance rules to address this important source of emissions as soon as possible.”

Investments in U.S. manufacturing surged by an impressive 63% in 2023, the most substantial industrial sector expansion in nearly 75 years. The industry is likely to become the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States if new manufacturing investments are not paired with rapid deployment of decarbonization solutions. Directly electrifying industrial process heat to avoid the combustion of fossil fuels is essential. Some green hydrogen and carbon capture and storage will be needed but, due to their expense and other challenges, should generally be limited to applications that are hard to electrify.  Electric industrial equipment Especially in the case of low- to medium-temperature process heating (below 300°C), electrification technologies are commercially available. The Department of Energy recently gave its vote of confidence, awarding more than half of a $6 billion decarbonization funding pot to electrification projects—but even this investment will only be a start. Directly electrifying industrial process heat to avoid the combustion of fossil fuels is essential A new ACEEE brief recommends actions that policymakers, utilities, and utility regulators can take to catalyze the electrification of process heating while supporting the growth of U.S. manufacturing and strengthening the grid. The climate crisis makes electrification imperative—process heating in industry accounts for about 30% of the sector’s carbon emissions—but it’s not the only reason to act. Much like an electric vehicle can cost less to own and drive over its lifetime than a car with a combustion engine, electric industrial equipment can often compete with natural gas-fueled technologies on operating costs and lead to long-term savings for manufacturers. High-temperature process heating Electrification also creates a win-win by lowering pollution and supporting jobs. In recent years, frontline communities have increasingly sought to safeguard their neighborhoods by protesting against new industrial facilities that burn fossil fuels, and some residents choose to move away from industrial areas entirely, which may aggravate workforce shortages. But electricity-powered production offers an avenue for job creation and economic advancement without compromising the health and well-being of neighboring communities. They need to electrify as aggressively as possible. 70% of industrial process heating—all low- and medium-temperature process heating and much high-temperature process heating—should be electrified by 2050. The upfront logistical and financial challenges for industrial electrification at this scale are formidable, however. Retrofit industrial energy systems Utility regulators must be at the forefront of this important transition Large-scale electrification faces many obstacles, including high upfront costs to retrofit industrial energy systems, utility rates that do not incentivize fuel switching, and the aging, unprepared utility grid. If grid planners are not prepared for industrial demand growth, there is a greater risk of adding polluting and expensive power plants to the system to meet new demand—plants that may quickly become stranded assets—and for slow timelines for upgrading transmission and distribution infrastructure to delay industrial electrification progress. Their new brief calls for federal, state, and local policymakers, utilities and grid planners, and utility regulators to overcome these barriers by ramping up pilots and demonstration projects across all industrial sectors, providing additional government incentives to counterbalance high upfront costs, modernizing electricity rate structures, and regionalizing grid policy strategies to account for economic, regulatory, and geographic variation in energy systems. Energy affordability goals Utility regulators must be at the forefront of this important transition. They are in a key position to instruct utilities to collaborate with industries to unlock electrification at scale and to direct utilities to update planning processes to meet climate and energy affordability goals. Meeting future demand growth without increasing utility bills for other customers or reducing grid reliability will require forward-looking resource planning and fair, just, and reasonable compensation for the benefits that flexible industrial loads can provide to the grid. Flexible industrial loads  Here are three key actions that utility regulators can take today: Direct utilities to incorporate industrial electrification into their planning. The scope of industrial electrification is still emerging, but it is important for utilities to engage industrial customers, transmission operators, the federal government, and other state agencies (e.g., commerce and economic development) to develop realistic scenarios for size and location of these loads. Regulators should direct utilities to update their integrated resource and system plans regularly as the market evolves. Review utility rates to encourage industrial electrification while adhering to cost-of-service principles. These rates should ensure that industrial customers are fairly compensated for the grid services that they can provide, including their ability to defer or avoid transmission and distribution upgrades through non-wires alternatives. Review utility interconnection procedures and protocols. Industrial facilities are often ready to electrify before utilities can connect them to an updated grid. Regulators need to ensure that interconnection occurs without delay and provide certainty to the customer on schedules for establishing or expanding service. A domestic manufacturing sector reliant on clean electricity for process heat will be better for the environment, more resilient, and more competitive. Now is the time to design the U.S. power system of the future, with policymakers at all levels supporting utilities and industries to collaboratively explore innovative solutions.

According to some recent estimates, the cooling industry accounts for approximately 10% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. To place this in perspective, the transportation sector, as the highest contributor, accounts for approximately 20% of global CO2 emissions. While some may see this as a “glass half empty” scenario, the better approach is the one taken by key players in the HVACR space. As we see it, because the cooling industry has been a source of significant emissions contributing to global warming, we have a huge opportunity to turn the tide through innovative chemistry and technology. Certainly, having a sizable impact on improving the health of the planet won’t be as fast as “flipping a switch.” Nor should it be. What is required is a thoughtful, well-planned and well-supported strategy that allows everyone involved in the HVACR industry—from refrigerant and equipment manufacturers to retailers, service shops, and end users—to transition to better solutions in ways that best work for them as well as for our planet in crisis. Industry’s Contributions to CO2 Emission CFC use has been reduced to less than 1% of where it was in the 1980s This transition is already well underway. Long before recent estimates about the industry’s contributions to CO2 emission were shared, providers in HVACR got to work innovating solutions to take refrigeration off “the environmental hot seat,” much like we did decades before when scientists pointed to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as a major cause for ozone layer depletion. If you recall, the 1987 Montreal Protocol unified many countries in the effort and drove industries to find and use CFC alternatives, such as the solutions found in zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. CFC use has been reduced to less than 1% of where it was in the 1980s, and it’s expected that, except for the polar regions, the ozone layer will be completely recovered by 2040.  Industry’s contribution to global warming To minimize the cooling industry’s contribution to global warming, we started by looking at two areas that stood to make a major impact—improving the overall energy efficiency of equipment and lowering the overall climate impact associated with HVACR. While not the sole solution for making these improvements, we knew refrigerants could play a significant role. Companies like Chemours went to the labs and harnessed the power of chemistry to innovate a new class of refrigerants consisting of hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and HFO blends.  In addition, OEMs engineered new systems and retrofit solutions that worked with these HFOs In addition, OEMs engineered new systems and retrofit solutions that worked with these HFOs, which have zero ODP, offer a global warming potential (GWP) significantly lower than the legacy products they replace, and enable equipment to run with better energy efficiency. At present, in terms of refrigerants, the industry is headed toward an HFO-centric—and more specifically, a low-toxicity, low-flammability A2L-centric—future. A2Ls and megatrends Industry and the world operate under the influence of several megatrends that continue to put focus on emerging next-generation refrigeration. These include: Fast-tracking the move toward decarbonization Circularity—maximizing the use of renewable energy and minimizing waste through reclamation and the infinite reusability of materials Shortage in skilled workforces—making it imperative for businesses to have technicians who can work with HFCs, Class A1 and A2L HFOs, and even CFCs and HCFCs Increased demand for products that not only support a greener environment but that are manufactured responsibly Business of HVACR Solutions need to offer versatility to support everyone from small family-owned shops These megatrends will continue to influence refrigerant transitions. So will the business of HVACR. In addition to supporting the environment, refrigerants and equipment need to cool effectively and efficiently. They also need to minimize energy consumption, offer low or no toxicity, maximize safety for the people working with them, and have price points that make them accessible to most businesses. Lastly, the supply chain needs to be able to support demand, and solutions need to offer versatility to support everyone from small family-owned shops to global corporations.  Ensuring these needs mesh cohesively with the megatrends requires striking the best possible balance of all the factors. This is where continual refinement of refrigerant chemistry becomes critical. At Chemours, this process started with the first products in our Opteon™ line of HFO-based stationary refrigerants. Chemours Opteon™ XP products, such as Opteon™ XP40 (R-449A) and Opteon™ XP10 (R-513A), are nonflammable refrigerants offering excellent retrofit solutions for replacing higher-GWP legacy HFCs, such as R-404A, while maintaining an A1 safety listing. ISO Safety Classification of A2L From here, chemists continued to develop ways to further lower GWP and maximize performance, operating efficiency, and energy savings. At Chemours, this resulted in the Opteon™ XL line. Poised to be next-generation refrigerants, these have an ASHRAE and ISO Safety classification of A2L and deliver very low GWP. Due to their low flammability, A2Ls are used in new equipment only. A2Ls can also lower operating costs throughout the life cycle of the equipment In addition to supporting regulatory compliance, A2L performance attributes include increased system efficiency, lower energy consumption, low toxicity, and improved safety for use in a broad range of applications. A2Ls can also lower operating costs throughout the life cycle of the equipment. We're seeing the path to that A2L-centric future take shape. For example, Opteon™ XL41 (R-454B) has already been selected by most pioneering global OEMs, including Carrier, Johnson Controls, and Rheem, which have announced alignment with Chemours for the utilization of this product.  Preparing for the transition Because regulations vary around the world, we find some regions are highly advanced in the transition to HFOs and A2Ls, while others are just getting started or fall somewhere in the middle. Consequently, there is no single plan to prepare for the refrigerant transition. However, the following considerations can help guide what steps you take, and when you take them. Your corporate responsibility mission. The systems you use, sell, or support should be charged with a refrigerant that is in line with your commitment to the health and sustainability of the planet. Your employees. Consider the people working for you. Will pride in working for a green company impact productivity, job satisfaction, and retainment?  Customers and clients. Comfort, safety, being “green and clean”—all come into play in attracting and retaining customers and clients. The age of current systems you service/support. Older HVACR systems have greater potential for refrigerant leaks. In the case of ammonia, a leak can pose fatal health risks, and in the case of HCFCs and HFCs, can result in subpar performance. Older systems also tend to require costly repairs and operate less efficiently. Market awareness. Keep an eye on supply trends and make sure refrigerant supply can meet the needs of the systems you support. Your bottom line. Newer-generation refrigerants and the systems that work with them have been developed to lower energy consumption. Determine when the time is right to make a larger upfront investment in new equipment, which can pay dividends in the form of lower energy bills and overall operating costs. Technician training. A2Ls look, feel, and work like R-410A or R-404A, but there are key differences due to their low flammability. Ensure technicians are properly trained to work with A2Ls as well as their predecessors. In conclusion—collaboration In a world that continues to demand and expect more, the criticality of HFO refrigerants—and, more specifically, next-generation A2L solutions—is undeniable, because of their environmental and performance advantages over existing alternatives. When you think of the role cooling plays in every part of our everyday lives, it’s easy to see how and why what we do as an industry now stands to have a major influence on the future of our planet. From being essential to every step along the cold chain—from farm to fork—to ensuring both comfortable and healthy living environments to providing the cooling that makes the data centers that make modern-day necessities and conveniences possible, refrigerants are a permanent fixture in lives, and will remain so as the world in which we live, work, and play continues to evolve. By collaborating, we can all advance a transition that leads to a healthier, more sustainable planet and opens opportunities for every application in the industry to provide customers and clients with higher-performing, safer, and more sustainable solutions.

When your HVAC system isn't working correctly, it's often difficult to pinpoint the exact issue. Does your home have hot and cold spots? Do doors randomly close on their own? Is your A/C blowing warm air on a hot summer day? If so, your HVAC might have an uneven airflow. There are many symptoms of uneven airflow and many solutions. Amid the increasing demand for HVAC repair, homeowners need to learn how to keep their home system operating at its best. Understanding the potential causes of uneven airflow can help you troubleshoot the problem and get your HVAC system back up and running efficiently. Evenly distributing air How to Know If Your HVAC Has Uneven Airflow: The desperate temperatures naturally separate, creating deposits throughout your home There Are Hot & Cold Spots in Your House - One of the most common signs of uneven airflow is hot and cold spots in your home. If you notice that certain rooms are always warmer or cooler than others, there's a good chance that your HVAC system isn't evenly distributing air. When air can't flow evenly through the HVAC, the desperate temperatures naturally separate, creating deposits throughout your home. You Don't Feel Much (If Any) Air From the Vent - Another way to tell if your home has uneven airflow is by feeling the air coming out of the vents. If you don't feel much air coming from a particular vent, that's an indication that not enough air is flowing through that area. Alternatively, if you feel a strong blast of air from one vent and barely any from another, that's another telltale sign of airflow errors. Creating pressure imbalances Doors Are Shaking or Closing on Their Own - Have you ever jumped when a door seems to slam on its own? Don't worry, it's not a ghost. Uneven airflow creates pressure imbalances that can cause your doors to swing open/shut or rattle. Vents Blowing Warm Air When A/C Is Turned On - If your air conditioning is cranked down, but the vents are still blowing warm air, that's a problem. Don't turn the temperature lower when this happens. Call your local HVAC technician to diagnose the cause of your inconsistent airflow. Ensuring optimal airflow Causes & Solutions For Uneven HVAC Airflow: Clean or Replace Your Filters - A dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of uneven airflow. When your filter gets clogged with dust and dirt, it restricts the amount of air that can flow through your HVAC system. Some research suggests that using an air purifier can extend the life of your filters You should change or clean your air filters three or four times per year. Pets, smoking, and improperly sealed doors and windows can create extra debris that soils filters sooner. Some research suggests that using an air purifier can extend the life of your filters, but it's still a good idea to change them regularly to ensure optimal airflow. Lower-Rated MERV filters Find the Right MERV Rating For Your HVAC System - When you're looking for a new air filter, it's important to find one with the right MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. The MERV scale rates how well an air filter can remove particles from the air; the higher the MERV rating, the more particles the filter will capture. Some homeowners assume that the highest MERV rating is best, but this isn't necessarily true. You need to choose a MERV rating that's compatible with your system's motor. If the filter is too dense, it will reduce airflow throughout the home. Additionally, it could overwork your motor and lead to a premature replacement of your HVAC system. If you choose to use air filters with a higher rating than your system's capabilities, you'll need to change them more frequently than you would with lower-rated MERV filters. Preventing proper airflow It's best to build a fence or shed that leaves plenty of ‘breathing room' Clutter Around The Outdoor Unit - If you have an outdoor air conditioner unit, it's important to keep the area around it clear of debris. Grass, leaves, and twigs can prevent proper airflow and cause your system to overheat. It's a good idea to check the area around your outdoor unit every few weeks and remove any debris that has accumulated. Some people choose to cover up their HVAC to increase curb appeal. It's best to build a fence or shed that leaves plenty of ‘breathing room.’ Any greenery around an HVAC unit can quickly overtake your system's airflow without constant maintenance. Maintaining comfortable temperatures Improperly Fitted HVAC Unit - Bigger isn't always better, especially when it comes to your HVAC unit. A unit that's too large for your home will turn on and off frequently, which can lead to uneven airflow. HVAC units that are too small have to work overtime to maintain comfortable temperatures HVAC units that are too small have to work overtime to maintain comfortable temperatures in the home. This also causes the system to turn on and off frequently and can cause uneven airflow. The right size HVAC unit will depend on the size of your home. If you have an especially large home or if you've converted your single-family into a duplex, you might consider installing two HVAC systems. Specific refrigerant levels The Refrigerant Needs to Be Refilled - Low refrigerant levels is another reason you might feel warm air when the AC is turned on. Refrigerant is responsible for balancing the flow of cool air into the home and pushing warm air out of the home. When refrigerant is low, the air delivered to your home will feel warmer. Replacing refrigerant isn't as easy as adding coolant to your car. HVAC manufacturers dictate specific refrigerant levels. Imbalanced levels can lead to expensive repairs, so it's best to leave this job for the professionals. Save Money & Increase Comfort By Balancing Your HVAC Airflow - If your HVAC has uneven airflow, there are many possible causes. The good news is that most of these causes have relatively simple solutions. If you can't seem to get your airflow under control, be sure to consult a professional. With just a little bit of troubleshooting, you should be able to keep your home comfortable all year round.

A preventive maintenance program could save 12-18% over reactive maintenance, as the U.S. Department of Energy predicted in 2010. For many businesses, the savings could be higher, considering the risks of downtime and today’s economic conditions pushing up costs across the supply chain. It’s also possible for a program to miss the mark. By one measure, 50% of the costs of a preventive maintenance program are often wasted. The question is, how do you know if your maintenance program is generating savings or just adding expenses? preventive maintenance program Statistics can only describe maintenance outcomes in the abstract, usually with averages including businesses outside your industry. Your facility, and the outcomes you need to prioritize, aren’t averages. If you’re going to understand how or if your preventive maintenance program is saving or wasting money, you’re going to have to measure your costs and your desired outcomes. If you do, you may be amazed by the value of your preventive maintenance program. deficient maintenance When a maintenance program doesn’t reduce repair costs, it’s the maintenance provider who benefits from that Or you may find yourself asking why you aren’t seeing the benefits you should. The answer may be that your program is designed to benefit someone else. When a maintenance program doesn’t reduce repair costs or increase equipment life as long as it should, it’s the maintenance provider who benefits from that deficient maintenance, because that deficiency gets them paid faster for the inevitable repair and replacement. Does your service provider want your system to fail? As the provider of both your preventive maintenance and your reactive maintenance, a service provider has an inherent conflict of interest. The optimal outcome for them, on paper, looks like preventive maintenance that has the least possible positive outcome for the client, since that also maximizes their repair and replacement. Of course, there are other factors at play, including the question of whether it's ethical to provide “just enough” preventive maintenance, or perhaps worse, to “overdo” planned preventive maintenance when it won’t benefit the client more than a more cost-effective approach, such as condition-based preventive maintenance. How would I know a program is compromised? To help decide whether a full assessment of your maintenance is warranted, check the list of “green flags” You may be reluctant to devote time and energy to fully investigating the cost-effectiveness of your maintenance program without some indication that you should be worried. Of course, if it’s too time-consuming or frustrating to figure out how effective your maintenance is, that’s already a red flag, your program either lacks transparency or just isn’t prioritizing measurable outcomes. To help you decide whether a full assessment of your maintenance is warranted, check the list of “green flags” below. The fewer green flags you find, the more you should consider a full assessment. 1) 50% less is spent on repairs than our maintenance program. A good rule of thumb to start with: if your business spends over half the cost of your maintenance program on additional repairs, then the maintenance program isn’t prioritizing saving you those repair costs. 2) We’ve experienced no unscheduled downtime within 3 years. One of the main benefits of preventive maintenance is improved control over downtime. By planning maintenance tasks to fit your productivity needs and avoiding equipment failure, you avoid unscheduled downtime. If your maintenance isn’t providing that benefit, then either maintenance schedules or equipment conditions need more attention. 3) Air filters are rated MERV 8 or above and changed at least quarterly. The CDC recommends using the highest efficiency filters possible, considering the impact on the HVAC system Without proper filtration, particulates contaminate your indoor air and cost your system useful life by accumulating inside the system and accelerating wear-and-tear, for instance, particulates that bypass filtration can contribute to coil fouling. To be clear, MERV 8 is not a recommendation for air quality purposes. For instance, the CDC recommends using the highest efficiency filters possible, considering the impact on the HVAC system, while ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) recommends a minimum of MERV 13. 4) Maintenance tasking is based on equipment conditions and customized by attributes. This is one place waste easily occurs. Maintenance that ignores conditions, and is only time-based, can over-maintain and waste the useful life of parts. Condition-based maintenance doesn’t rely solely on models that estimate aging but also monitor data and tests for variables that indicate needed maintenance. One study found that only 15-20% of equipment failures were age-related, while the rest were caused by random effects. Since 99% of equipment failures are preceded by some kind of condition or indication of failure, tasking preventive maintenance based on data, rather than schedules, can prevent premature failures that time-based maintenance would miss and increase cost-effectiveness by taking advantage of longer useful life. 5) All technicians in our buildings train on safety and electrical workplace hazards, including the NFPA 70E standard. Maintenance functions can be dangerously siloed when it comes to safety, and sometimes, HVAC technicians are only trained on HVAC tasks. It’s easy to believe that only electrical workers need electrical safety training, but nothing could be further from the case. HVAC technicians also require safety training to deal with hazards they may encounter in the work environment The National Fire Protection Association’s latest report on fatal electrical injuries in the workplace highlights deadly incidents involving work on ventilation systems, and the report on non-fatal injuries states that installation, maintenance, and repair workers suffered the largest share of injuries from exposure to electricity, with service occupations next. HVAC technicians also require safety training to deal with hazards they may encounter in the work environment, such as fall protection, heat stress awareness and approved procedures for confined spaces. A program that doesn’t prioritize safety training can’t pretend to be cost-effective if it opens the door to injury and liability. Avoid conflicts of interest If your maintenance program is compromised, more transparency, with clear, measurable results, can help. Service providers can also prove they prioritize your results by removing that conflict of interest. How? By offering preventive maintenance with quality assurances, such as guarantees to replace maintainable parts at their own cost. That not only removes the conflict of interest but also aligns their interests with yours. By taking your risk of repair costs on themselves, service providers prove they have no conflict of interest, and you can trust they are prioritizing better outcomes for your cost-efficiency.

AHR Expo 2024 was abuzz with activity, befitting a dynamic industry in the throes of change.  Industry developments such as electrification and the refrigerant transition render business opportunities on the AHR Expo show floor, where exhibitors display a determination to meet the challenges and thrive in the process. Walking from booth to booth during the three-day show in Chicago, I saw the best the HVAC industry has to offer, up close and personal. Innovation and adaptability are the watchwords as the industry journeys into 2024 and beyond. Refrigerant Transition Top of Mind  Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment The technology transition is well underway for OEMs seeking to meet a pending AIM Act deadline at the end of the year. OEMs are choosing to embrace either R-32 or R454-B refrigerant to replace legacy R-410A, which is being phased out. Patented R-454B refrigerant enables a simpler transition without redesigning equipment, while R-32 offers advantages such as higher capacity, higher efficiency, and easier cradle-to-cradle management. Arkema Arkema is the only producer of R-32 refrigerant in the United States. The newer refrigerant is being embraced as HVAC OEMs seek to meet the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, to use lower-GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants in their products. The technology transition is just part of the AIM Act implementation that will also limit allocation and require refrigerant management. Chemours Chemours is a manufacturer of R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C refrigerants. At AHR, they presented hourly education sessions on a variety of subjects. The refrigerant transition will impact everyone in the industry, including refrigerant producers, equipment manufacturers, contractors, and end users. R-454B refrigerant provides identical performance in HVAC systems compared to the previous refrigerant (R-410A). There is less need to redesign equipment; just adding sensors for leak mitigation can address the mild flammability of A2L refrigerants. Because of the 2025 deadline, 2024 will be the “year of new products” in the HVAC market. OEMs pioneering Innovation  Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets Innovation in the HVAC market is led by companies such as Carrier, which has introduced 100 new products each year for the past eight years. Carrier and others are offering smaller footprints, seeking to meet environmental targets, and providing flexibility for customers. New products include the AquaSnap 30RC air-cooled chiller and the AquaEdge 19MV chiller with low GWP refrigerant to meet pending regulatory requirements.  Copeland Copeland, recently divested from Emerson, also emphasizes innovation, including 12 research and development (R&D) facilities, 1,700 engineers, and more than 3,000 patents. At a press conference at AHR Expo, the 100-year-old company announced it is a “new” company owned by Blackstone Private Equity.  Products featured Among the featured products at AHR are Copeland’s oil-free centrifugal compressor with Aero-lift bearing technology; and Copeland’s CC200 case controller, specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of the current retail grocery refrigeration environments. Copeland also pledges to play a role in educating the market about new trends and the transition to new refrigerants.  Emphasizing a Smaller Footprint  Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency Daikin Daikin highlights the Atmosphera, a single-zone ductless split system (using R-32) that can reduce carbon emissions by 80% (compared to R-410A). Also, Trailblazer AGZ-F is an R-32 air-cooled scroll chiller that delivers 10% greater capacity and efficiency. Products emphasize a smaller footprint and less weight than their predecessors. Rebel Applied is a packaged rooftop unit that continually adjusts operation to address the building load, consuming less energy. Trailblazer HP is an air-to-water heat pump chiller with a reversing function that allows the product to switch between cooling and heating based on temperature requirements.  Friedrich Air Conditioning Friedrich Air Conditioning features the Breeze universally flexible inverter heat pump, a ducted mini-split for upgrading traditional equipment. It works with any furnace or air handler, has side discharge, is 40% smaller, and is cold weather capable to minus 13. Friedrich's new Vert-I-Pak is a line of M1-compliant single package Vertical Heat Pumps (available in 9K, 12K, 18K, and 24K Btu), supporting decarbonization efforts with heat pump operation down to 10°F. High Efficiency for Commercial and Residential Johnson Controls Johnson Controls exhibits their highly efficient residential and commercial HVAC solutions designed for Department of Energy (DOE) 2023 compliance and helping customers achieve Net Zero goals through decarbonization. On display was the York High-Efficiency 18 SEER2 Side-Discharge Heat Pump with up to 30% smaller footprint than vertical-discharge equipment. Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning's Aircore 700 single split system is aimed at light commercial and residential. Midea Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit Midea, known for selling consumer products, has kept a low profile in the professional sector, selling products that are either OEMed for Carrier or private-labeled by a contractor company. Seeking to promote the Midea brand, the Chinese company is staking its claim on the trade market with an emphasis on performance: The company exceeded performance in the Department of Energy’s “ColdClimate Heat Pump Challenge:” Their 3-ton model achieved 118% of rated capacity heating output at minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat pump awareness Results of a survey conducted by Midea show that more than half of homeowners are not fully aware of heat pumps and their function. Awareness lags among contractors, too: 70% of contractors indicate they do not know that the current’s advanced heat pumps can generate 100% heat output to a minimum temperature of minus 4 F. Wide Selection of New Products Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US emphasizes all-electric heat pump solutions. The Deluxe Wall-mounted H2i sumo System connects with an outdoor unit, and the intelli-HEAT dual fuel system can determine the best source of heat – electric or gas – on cold days. Among commercial products, Heat2OHeat Pump Water Heaters are designed to produce high-volume domestic hot water for commercial facilities in any climate. LG Electronics LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning LG Electronics’ booth includes a wide product range, including advanced heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and building management solutions for residential and commercial applications. Home electrification products include the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc system; the LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater the LG Electronics Home 8 Energy Storage System, and ThinQ, LG’s mobile app. LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit The LG Art Cool Gallery multi-zone wall-mount indoor unit features a customizable picture frame that doubles as a cooling and heating vent. Also, LG’s Medium and High-Temperature Hydro Kit Systems use a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger to produce chilled or heated water. LG’s Split Compact M3 DOAS with Multi V S is suited to light commercial use where single-phase power is available and as an HVAC solution for outdoor air treatment. Easier Access for Technicians  Rheem Manufacturing New equipment at the Rheem Manufacturing booth at AHR Expo includes true multi-zone operation, smaller footprints, lighter weights, and components that are positioned for easy access by technicians. An LED in the control cabinet displays a fault code that identifies the problem to service technicians. The Resolute and Renaissance lines are commercially packaged heat pump units. The company is emphasizing the transition from R-410A to R-454B refrigerant by the end of 2024. Aeroseal Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant Aeroseal seals ducts by spraying a vinyl acetate polymer substance to increase HVAC efficiency. Whether a new install or a retrofit, the product saves energy, saves money, and keeps customers compliant, and a 30% tax deduction is available through the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).  Airzone Airzone is a Spanish company that controls inverters and VRFs (variable refrigerant flow units). Their communication gateway controller incorporates protocols from various manufacturers, and the Easyzone is an easy-to-install zoning system.  Infinitum Infinitum manufactures a motor system that leverages a printed circuit board as a stator, making the motor system lighter weight and also smaller, quieter, and more efficient. The Aircore EC uses a standard printed circuit board manufacturing process to eliminate bearings. The component is used in blowers by OEMs Lau, Acme, Canarm, and Peerless, whose products are displayed at the booth.  Bell & Gossett Bell & Gossett debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve sustainability Bell & Gossett, a Xylem brand, debuts its line of smart, connected products designed to improve the sustainability of commercial buildings and reduce complexity in the design process. Combining pumps and smart motors are the e-1510 end-suction pump, e-80 vertical in-line pump, and TECHNOFORCE e-HV packaged booster system.  NIBCO Simplifying the job of an HVAC installer is the PressACR copper press connection system from NIBCO, which connects copper pipes without brazing, which involves soldering and high temperatures, thus a fire hazard. The patent-pending groove design and crimp pattern support the higher-pressure requirement of an HVACR system. Pipes are pressed together using PressACR jaws and adapter jaws in a variety of sizes. NIBCO also displayed its Webstone brand of residential and commercial valves.  Control Products Provide Data  Resideo Resideo displayed home system products, including the Honeywell Home T10+ thermostat with RedLINK 3.0; sensors enable temperature balancing for hot and cold spots. Pro-IQ Services provides software tools designed for the connected home, including insights on heating, cooling, water, and indoor air quality devices to help contractors track customers. Professional-grade water damage prevention, the First Alert L2 WiFi Water Sensor and Switch provide alarms if there is a water leak.  Schneider Electric The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management Schneider Electric seeks to be “digital partners for our customers,” working with Fortune 500 companies seeking to achieve ESG (environment, social and corporate governance) goals. They help customers establish where they are currently vis-à-vis their goals and then deploy science-based key performance indicators (KPIs) to direct them to where they want to be. The EcoStruxure Building Operation system is open system software for building and facility management, including two products for the small and medium building (SMB) market. Energy measurement Schneider measures energy usage through power meters, indoor air quality, and energy spent to achieve efficiency, compiling data according to what the customer wants to achieve. They sell through a national sales team, direct branch business (20 branches), and 200 system integrators (EcoXperts). Their customers include QSR (quick-service restaurant chains) that control climate centrally with data compiled in the cloud.  Siemens Siemens displays solutions for smart, adaptable buildings for a sustainable tomorrow, including the Building X system and the Sustainability Manager application, providing an understanding of a building’s performance and tracking it against sustainability and compliance targets. The Building X Lifecycle Twin tracks operational building performance via a “digital twin,” providing an augmented reality (AR) headset through which one can view equipment with information superimposed on the screen. Uponor  Uponor seeks to leverage the capital cost of heating systems to deliver heating and hot water. They make pipes and connectors and other technologies, including the AuqaPort, which improves water quality and energy savings in domestic hot water (DHW) applications. They seek to future-proof buildings by combining energy efficiency and comfort. Water recirculates and provides hot water on demand using 40% less piping. A “radiant roll-out mat” is preconfigured piping that can be rolled out to simplify installation. 

From supply chain challenges to decarbonization, from data analytics to maintenance programs, the themes that ranked highest among visitors to HVACinformed.com in 2022 reflected the dominant topics of conversation throughout the industry. As demonstrated by the most-read articles on the site, technology trends and regulatory issues all converged and had a profound impact on the industry in 2022. Timely and important issues in the HVAC marketplace dominate HVACinformed.com‘s list of most-clicked-on articles in 2022. In the world of digital publishing, it’s easy to know what content resonates with the market: Our readers tell us with their actions; i.e., where they click. Let’s look back at the Top 10 articles posted at HVACinformed.com in 2021 that generated the most page views. Supply Chain Challenges Persist as Demand for HVAC Grows HVAC installers are playing a guessing game about what stock might be available Supply chain issues continued to plague the HVAC marketplace in 2022, causing longer waits for customers. Diesel fuel costs and shortages are the latest factors contributing to delays, alongside continuing manufacturer setbacks and transportation challenges. The supply chain situation changes from day to day. HVAC installers are playing a guessing game about what stock might be available and what will not. The situation persists despite the efforts of warehouses to ensure they had sufficient equipment this year. One installer estimates that two out of 10 clients are waiting on parts. What Does a Successful Maintenance Program Look Like? A preventive maintenance program could save 12-18% over reactive maintenance, as the U.S. Department of Energy predicted in 2010. For many businesses, the savings could be higher, considering the risks of downtime and today’s economic conditions pushing up costs across the supply chain. It’s also possible for a program to miss the mark. By one measure, 50% of the costs of a preventive maintenance program are often wasted. The question is, how do you know if your maintenance program is generating savings or just adding expenses? Four Strategies for Moving the Building Decarbonization Needle The importance of caring for the environment has become a top priority both around the world The importance of caring for the environment has become a top priority both around the world and increasingly in the United States. As regulations and social expectations become more stringent, future-proofing our infrastructure — beginning with energy consumption in buildings — is a natural first step. There are four key strategies a building owner or facility manager can focus on to improve energy efficiency and reduce a building’s carbon footprint, all while improving building performance. How Can Data Analytics Be Used to Enhance HVAC Solutions? Multiple components work together to make an HVAC system run smoothly and efficiently. One of the newer components in today’s systems is data, whether it is information about historic performance trends or the weather outside. A variety of sensors work together to provide data that can be crunched by various algorithms to provide useful information to system installers and end-users, and to help systems run better and longer. Copper: The Material of Choice for Air Conditioning Systems As the demand for air conditioning continues to increase, so too will the demand for copper pipes. Copper is a trusted and reliable material that air conditioning installers have been using for many years and, not only that, it’s also infinitely recyclable – making it a sustainable alternative to materials like plastic. Grant Program and Government Funds Available for HVAC Improvements A $500 million grant program seeks to upgrade the infrastructure of U.S. schools, including improving HVAC systems. Many schools rely on outdated HVAC systems that make classrooms less comfortable and may pose health risks. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is launching the grant program to lower energy costs, improve air quality and prioritize schools most in need. Disposable Cylinder Ban Looms, And Impact on HVAC Will Be Stark Among the requirements of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 is a ban on disposable, single-use cylinder tanks used to transport refrigerants through the supply chain to an HVAC installer. A final rule posted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on October 5, 2021, will prohibit the use of disposable cylinders in the next several years. HVAC installers use the disposable cylinders every day to transport hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants including R32 and R410A. The Role of Hydrogen in Achieving Net-Zero By 2050 Some of the solutions currently being evaluated include the use of hydrogen as a replacement fuel Some 38% of greenhouse gas emissions emanate from residential housing, specifically heating and cooling systems. Given the goal of 'net-zero' carbon emissions by 2050, new approaches have emerged to achieve that target. Some of the solutions currently being evaluated include the use of hydrogen as a replacement fuel, to store electricity from solar or wind power, or in fuel cells that use an electrochemical process combining hydrogen and oxygen to produce electrical energy and water. Considering The Advantages of Heating and Cooling ‘As A Service’ 'As a service' is a familiar pattern in business today, especially in the technology arena. 'Software as a Service' is as common as Microsoft Office 365, and companies have been providing services, such as telephony and internet access for decades. 'As a service' is a familiar pattern in business today, especially in the technology arena But how can the model be applied to the HVAC market? It’s not a common approach today, but the benefits of applying “As a service” to HVAC are many – for customers and for equipment and service providers. Notably, an ‘As a service’ approach can help customers sidestep the higher costs of transitioning to more expensive green technologies, thus accelerating the green trend and avoiding pollutants and greenhouse gases. Summer Increases Demand for HVAC Services, Often to Breaking Point High outdoor temperatures are a great indicator of demand for HVAC services, and HVAC companies are feeling the heat as they struggle to meet higher demand for services even as they face unprecedented supply-chain challenges and a critically tight labor market.  HVAC contractors across the country agree that demand this summer is higher than ever. The phones are ringing off the hook, and HVAC employees are working long hours just to keep up. Some are working 12-hour days and on the weekend. The situation is basically ‘all hands on deck.’

The HVAC market is at an inflection point, in the throes of switching refrigerants to meet regulatory goals, improving energy efficiency to meet more stringent standards, and struggling with supply chain issues. What the industry needs is a new technology at the nexus of environmental issues and energy conservation, enabling the drive away from fossil fuels and toward zero-carbon emissions. Blue Frontier is working to bring such a system to market with a core air conditioning/energy storage technology that integrates desiccant-enhanced indirect evaporative cooling, thermochemical energy storage, and an efficient converter for transforming renewable electricity into heat. ultra-efficient air conditioning The company is seeking to commercialize the new concept of ultra-efficient air conditioning. From Blue Frontier’s world headquarters in Boca Raton, Fla., 30 employees are working to advance the technology from the lab to the field, focusing on design for manufacturability. Proven in the lab, the technology will be validated at scale and then manufactured reliably. Founded in 2017, Blue Frontier has licensed patents from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and seeks to advance and transform a Technology Readiness Level 5 prototype into a fully commercialized and manufactured system. air dehumidification After proving the technology to the industry, Blue Frontier could license it to other manufacturers. The technology involves regeneration, which heats a desiccant (a proprietary salt solution) to increase its concentration by emitting water into the atmosphere. As water is driven from the concentrated solution, it is ready to do the work of air dehumidification (absorbing water from the air) and is available for air conditioning. concentrated solution When air conditioning is needed, the concentrated solution is placed in contact with air via indirect evaporative cooling The concentrated desiccant is stored in a plastic tank, where it remains ready to use in the air conditioning process when necessary; in effect, it is stored energy in the form of "dehumidification potential." The desiccant (salt solution) has no impact on the environment or human health. When air conditioning is needed, the concentrated solution is placed in contact with air, which it dehumidifies, enabling temperature reduction via indirect evaporative cooling (dew-point style cooling). 50 to 90% electricity reduction The system separates and independently controls humidity and temperature. It provides up to 100% fresh air ventilation. Thermal energy storage enables load shifting. In effect, the system decouples the direct relationship between the temperature outside and the electricity needed by an air conditioning system. In terms of electricity bill savings, Blue Frontier offers a 50 to 90% reduction in electricity usage and a 98% reduction in peak demand. transformational approach The new approach saves energy, reduces peak demand, and does not rely on refrigerants. A drop-in replacement for technology in a 100-year-old market, it is 300% more energy efficient than vapor compression and eliminates the use of refrigerants. Unlike the lighting market, for example, air conditioning efficiencies have not improved and are ripe for a transformational approach. HVAC technology “As the world becomes hotter and more humid, our system allows people to increase the use of air conditioning without contributing to global warming,” says Greg Tropsa, Blue Frontier’s Executive Vice President for Business Development. “The system works in all climate zones, and the hotter it gets, the more cooling capacity it provides, which is the opposite of vapor air systems.” The technology evolved from a 2009 Department of Energy grant seeking to mitigate the threat of anthrax using HVAC technology. Using liquid desiccants dries the air and eliminates the growth of spores of a variety of air pathogens. The cooling benefits of the approach evolved as the technology was developed. air-conditioning energy EIA projects that air-conditioning energy use will grow faster between 2022 and 2050 The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that air-conditioning energy use will grow faster than any other use in buildings between 2022 and 2050. In fact, by 2050, the global consumption of energy for air conditioning will equal the combined total electricity consumption of India and China currently. The growth is not sustainable with current technologies. rooftop units Blue Frontier’s initial manufactured products will be rooftop units in 5-ton to 20-ton sizes. Paving the way to growth are installation first costs that are low or equivalent to the market today, achievable while providing incremental benefits. “It is almost impossible for technologies to make it to scale,” says Tropsa. “This has all the earmarks of being able to achieve that.” Series A financing Blue Frontier recently raised a $20M Series A equity investment led by Bill Gates-founded Breakthrough Energy Ventures, 2150 Urban Tech Sustainability Fund, and Volo Earth Ventures. Blue Frontier's commercialization and manufacturing partner, Modern Niagara, also participated in the funding round. The Series A financing will accelerate Blue Frontier's ability to bring its product to market, propelling the company towards its goal of creating gigaton reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by decarbonizing building cooling. Reducing carbon footprint Between 2022 and 2024, the company will be seeking to install tryout systems at early-adopter companies The timeline for introduction and commercialization is early 2024 when Blue Frontier will seek to unveil its product at the AHR show. Between 2022 and then, the company will be seeking to install tryout systems at early-adopter companies. “Today we are looking for early adopters who have high sustainability goals and public commitments to reduce their carbon footprint,” says Tropsa. Performance  During 2023-2024, the company will release a limited number of units (1,000) to prove its performance. In the 2024-2025 timeframe, they will accelerate market penetration by working with utility companies seeking to lower electricity usage. Electric utilities are attracted to the technology as a “non-wire alternative,” (NWA) a route to lowering energy demand rather than having to build more capacity. The desiccant is recharged and stored when electricity is the cleanest or lowest cost, and later used to deliver cooling when electricity is dirty or costly. Saving money Customers save money on electricity bills, decarbonize their systems, and reduce the impact of air conditioning on the environment. Air conditioning in buildings is responsible for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions (including energy usage and the impact of refrigerants).  Blue Frontier's systems address every major issue associated with present-day air conditioning with a ground-breaking replacement for Packaged Rooftop Units that dominate the commercial buildings air conditioning market:  Eliminates high Global Warming Potential ("GWP") refrigerant with liquid desiccant technology. Dramatically reduces AC electrical consumption by 50-90% depending on weather and usage. Eliminates peak electrical demand by integrating energy storage with a proprietary saltwater solution, which allows AC to intelligently store and use excess renewable energy. Enables early replacement of traditional ACs with HVAC-as-a-Service, a business model designed to speed market adoption by removing capital investment requirements.

Kepier School's phased transition to low-carbon CIAT heating technologies has delivered generous energy savings within a year of installation. CIAT worked with partners to initiate the school’s journey to net zero in 2022, returning to measure performance and optimize the system. CIAT is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. New high-efficiency heat emitters CIAT worked with BREng Hull Ltd, AA Projects, Quora Group, and Cool Designs Ltd to create a phased decarbonization plan for Kepier School in Northeast England, aided by the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF). Recognizing the challenges faced by many schools, Oliver Sanders, Carrier Commercial HVAC Director, United Kingdom, and Ireland, said, "For schools with new gas boilers aiming to reach net zero, it's most cost-effective to integrate them into a modernized heating infrastructure, ready for the next transition phase to heat pumps when the boilers reach end-of-life." Project featured a heating audit The project involved a heating audit identifying the need for new high-efficiency heat emitters The project involved a heating audit identifying the need for new high-efficiency heat emitters. Conventional radiators were replaced with seven surface-mounted high-level CIAT MajorLine and 31 CIAT COADIS fan coil units (FCUs). The seven gas boilers installed in 2019 were integrated into the new system's infrastructure, enabling them to be replaced as required to improve system efficiency and cost savings. Sizeable energy savings A subsequent review revealed sizeable energy savings. Gas usage was compared before and after the pandemic to avoid skewed data due to COVID-19 school closures. Findings revealed an 8.6% reduction of 2,824 m3 (~31,446.41 kWhr) from March 2022 to March 2023 compared to the period from March 2019 to March 2020. This achievement reduced the school’s carbon footprint and resulted in an 8% annual cost saving of ~£800 (average based on gas price fluctuations between March 2019-2020 and March 2022-2023). CIAT project partners BREng Hull  CIAT project partners BREng Hull and installer Quora Group returned to the school to optimize system operating gains Following commission, CIAT project partners BREng Hull and installer Quora Group returned to the school to optimize system operating gains.  "The process doesn’t stop once a solution has been designed, installed, and commissioned," said Rob Smelt, Managing Director of BREng Hull, adding "Experience shows that there are often significant additional gains to be made by optimizing the system in light of its real-world operation." The inspection revealed that some areas were imbalanced while others operated at sub-optimal temperatures. These issues were addressed to improve occupant comfort and reduce energy use and running costs. Carrier’s 2030 ESG Goal "The comfort level has improved significantly," said Brian Dixon, Kepier School Estates Manager, adding "We already gained control over specific rooms and areas, as opposed to the old ‘on or off’ heating system, and the latest work seems to have improved things even more. Future phases in our decarbonization plan will yield even greater energy and cost savings for the school." BREng Hull worked closely with equipment supplier Cool Designs Ltd during the scoping and specification stages, supported by CIAT application specialists. Projects like these contribute to Carrier’s 2030 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Goal of reducing its customers’ carbon footprint by more than one gigaton.

To adequately heat the 111 Murray Street residential skyscraper in New York, the owner sought an effective way to maintain the aesthetic of the mostly glass building without being obtrusive to its design. Custom convection style heaters, mounted in the building’s millwork by Faber Industrial Technologies, proved to be the game-changing resolution. Residential And Commercial Applications “Convection heaters provide warmth and heat to a specific area or room by circulating air and heating it using a highly efficient electric element,” explained Andrew Martin, Manager of Product Management with Marley Engineered Products. Andrew Martin adds, “Designed for quiet, controlled comfort, they are ideal for both residential and commercial applications, including living rooms and bedrooms, offices, hallways, lobbies, conference rooms, retail stores, and buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows.” Installing Heaters While Maintaining Aesthetics Due to mechanical constraints exacerbated by the building’s slim design, hot water was not available Located in the Financial District and Tribeca neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan, 111 Murray Street is a 792-foot-tall residential skyscraper with 156 luxury condominiums and 2,100 square feet of retail space on the ground floor. Due to mechanical constraints exacerbated by the building’s slim design, hot water was not available in most of the upper residences, rendering hydronic heating systems impractical. Berko ASL3 convector heaters Therefore, the client requested Berko ASL3 convector heaters from Marley Engineered Products to be installed for elegant, supplemental comfort for heat loss, condensation prevention, and continuous warmth throughout each condo. The challenge, however, came from their preference to keep the heaters hidden for aesthetic reasons. Custom design “The varying heights and angles of the millwork in each condo limited our ability to install the heaters directly where we wanted them,” said Christopher Smith, a Heater Manufacturing Representative with Faber Industrial Technologies. He adds, “Therefore, we needed a custom design that enabled us to mount the heaters properly while also keeping them out of sight.” Delivery of convector heaters Another issue was revealed when the contractor requested the materials be delivered to each floor Another issue was revealed when the contractor requested the materials be delivered to each floor. Working in tandem with Technical Air Systems, Inc., a regional supplier of HVAC equipment to the metropolitan New York and New Jersey areas, Marley Engineered Products’ customer service and shipping teams were instrumental in coordinating the delivery of the convector heaters in a congested lower west side intersection between West Side Highway and Murray Street. Hidden Heat For Unmatched Comfort And Elegance The solution involved fabricating and supplying custom dual inlet convector heaters, which were then mounted within the millwork of each condominium unit. Using a thermocouple array, the engineering team at Marley tested the Berko ASL3 connectors, at 125 watts per foot and 120V inside a customer-supplied demo millwork section sent from New York City.  After making some adjustments to the design, thermal couplers were utilized on both the heaters and their enclosures to ensure their surface temperatures were within Marley Engineered Products’ limits to pass a UL site inspection. Invisible solution Next, Smith coordinated with the electrical and mechanical contractors on-site to fit the heaters into each condo’s temperature control system using power relays. The result was an 'invisible solution' in which none of the controls or heaters could be seen in the residential units. Seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution" “Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics,” explained Smith, adding “In fabricating this ‘invisible solution’ for the client, our dedicated team and the coordination of skilled contractors transformed these condos into spaces that harmonize comfort and elegance and exemplify the blending of form and function.” UL evaluation The success of the project not only resulted in an extremely satisfied customer but also left the contractors pleased with the uninterrupted delivery and installation of the heaters. They were further impressed when the custom heater and millwork system passed the UL site inspector's test after just one evaluation.  2023 Jim Herring Memorial Silver Fox Award To acknowledge the innovative approach and exceptional achievements demonstrated by the Faber team in overcoming the challenges faced during this project, Marley Engineered Products awarded Smith the 2023 Jim Herring Memorial Silver Fox Award at its recent national sales meeting. “This award for excellence in solution design embodies the spirit of Herring, who was always up for a challenge and most happy when solving a unique heating or ventilation problem,” said Sean Pesce, Acting Director of Sales for Marley Engineered Products, adding “Chris and his team perfectly captured Jim’s talent for finding creative solutions to the most complex issues and left a lasting impression on the client.”

Johnston County Public Schools, located in Smithfield, North Carolina, chose Carrier to improve energy efficiency and comfort at five schools. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. AquaSnap® 30RB Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS), located in one of the nation’s fastest-growing counties, is the seventh-largest school district in the state. JCPS used money from the U.S. Department of Education’s Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund to replace a dozen chillers. The school district selected Carrier’s AquaSnap® 30RB, an air-cooled liquid chiller offering an effective all-in-one package that is easy to install and maintain. New Equipment Replaced Old Chillers The schools are in North Carolina’s fastest-growing county with 5,000 students enrolled at the five schools The new equipment replaced chillers that were between 20 and 25 years old at Cleveland Elementary, West Clayton Elementary, and Clayton High in Clayton; McGee’s Crossroads Elementary in Angier; and Glendale-Kenly Elementary in Kenly. According to the latest census data, the schools are in North Carolina’s fastest-growing county with 5,000 students enrolled at the five schools and are part of a larger school system with more than 37,000 students in 48 schools. On-Site Training For Staff In addition to the startup of the chillers, Carrier also provided on-site training for the school system’s maintenance staff ahead of the new school year. “Johnston County Public Schools appreciates that Carrier’s AquaSnap Greenspeed intelligence technology provides best-in-class part-load efficiency with quiet part-load operation,” said Philip Samartino, Sales Specialist, Carrier. Shell And Tube Evaporator Philip Samartino adds, “The school district needed the reliability of the aluminum fin copper tube condenser coils and simplicity of the scroll compressor technology to handle compressor repairs in-house. Many schools also have older piping infrastructure so they preferred the shell and tube evaporator as it is less susceptible to fouling and clogging up from dirty piping systems.” AquaSnap 30RB features In addition to Greenspeed® intelligence, the AquaSnap 30RB features a rotary scroll compressor, Puron® refrigerant, a quiet AeroAcoustic™ fan system, easy to use ComfortLink™ controls, microchannel condenser coil technology, and high-efficiency variable condenser fans. “Carrier is working with school districts nationwide to implement layered HVAC replacement and retrofit solutions that improve learning environments,” said Meredith Emmerich, Vice President, of North America Commercial HVAC, Carrier. Meredith Emmerich adds, “With solutions tailored to each school’s needs, Carrier is committed to helping foster the long-term well-being of students and staff and encourage the use of ESSER funds to make critical improvements that will impact generations of students.”

The well-known Italian brand, Big Mamma Restaurant Group, has recently transformed an old four story bank into a striking new restaurant, Jacuzzi, in the heart of High Street Kensington, West London, United Kingdom (UK). In keeping with the grand design of this new ‘pleasure palazzo’, the interior environment needed to offer ultimate comfort and to help create a memorable and luxurious dining experience. Summit Design specified, designed and installed the comprehensive new heating and cooling system, utilizing two 45kW Panasonic 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 units with nanoe X technology. Panasonic 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 units installed The Big Mamma Group selected the abandoned old bank building on Kensington High Street The Big Mamma Group selected the abandoned old bank building on Kensington High Street, for its fourth restaurant in London – Jacuzzi, a luxurious 170-seat Italian dining experience. Be-decked with high end Italian treasures and decadent interior design, the site covers four floors, including a Sicilian mezzanine floor with a retractable roof opening out to the bustle of High Street Kensington. Transforming the old historic bank building to a fully functional and fit for purpose restaurant required extensive renovations, including an entirely new heating, cooling and hot water system. To service the 4,000 sq. ft building, Jacuzzi needed a high-capacity performance and energy efficient solution, providing heating and cooling with accurate climate control and ultimate comfort.  Panasonic 45kW 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 series With Summit Design’s in-depth understanding and knowledge of heating and cooling, the company specified two Panasonic 45kW 3-pipe ECOi EX MF3 series with nanoe X and with a range of indoor units including adaptive ducted, 4-way cassettes, ceiling suspended, floor mounted, wall mounted and slim ducted units. “The Panasonic ECOi EX series is one of the most advanced VRF systems currently on the market, offering not only high performance for simultaneous heating and cooling but also sophisticated installation,” says Dan Sparling of Summit Designs, adding “The solution is ideal for commercial applications having enough capacity to run the energy efficient system for the entire building.” Dan Sparling adds, “Furthermore, the wide selection of indoor units that the Panasonic range offers meant that we could adapt the system design to select the best and most appropriate indoor units, ensuring best choice for each space. It was very important for the heating, cooling and ventilation system to blend seamlessly into the interior design, so as to not distract in any away from the impressive diner experience and general ambience of this high-end restaurant.” Powerful performance for both heating and cooling The Panasonic ECOi EX MF3 offers powerful performance for both heating and cooling The Panasonic ECOi EX MF3 offers powerful performance for both heating and cooling. Designed with a twin rotary inverter compressor, the system is highly energy efficient even in extreme ambient temperatures of say 43 degree C and continue to cool, even when the outside temperature reaches a maximum of 52 degree C, with a high SEER of 3.49 and SCOP of 4.17. The optimized energy consumption was enhanced by the addition of the heat recovery box, which was able to connect multiple indoor units with a single box. The heat exchanger captures the waste heat from the cooling operation and is able to redirect it using the 3-pipe system to areas requiring heating. This capability allows the system to heat and cool multiple areas simultaneously, allowing for greater independent climate control across the four floors and flexibility in meeting a comfortable climate for all. Panasonic system offers flexibility The installation at the large Jacuzzi property was made easier by the flexibility of the Panasonic system. The units provide up to 1000 m of piping and up to 30 m height difference between the indoor units, meaning the system was able to extend its reach across all four floors with ease. The ECOi EX MF3 system provides easy to use and effective temperature and humidity controls, has a newly designed fan for optimized airflow, and customizable settings that can be tailored to suit the needs of the building. Panasonic ECOi units come as standard with nanoe X The Panasonic ECOi units now all come as standard with nanoe X technology" “The Panasonic ECOi units now all come as standard with nanoe X technology, a great benefit that really adds value, especially to a luxury dining experience like the new Jacuzzi restaurant,” said Rachel Wales, Regional Sales Manager for Panasonic. Rachel Wales adds, “The nanoe X technology inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other airborne pollutants. With nanoe X, the system can reduce unpleasant odors, tackle mold and allergens and even help keep hard and soft surfaces clean, all of which culminate in creating a better indoor air quality and enhancing the experience for staff and guests alike.” Quick and convenient installation The Panasonic system was able to be installed quickly without any problems, helping deliver the opening of the new restaurant on time. Dan Sparling stated, “We are so pleased with the operation of the system so far and are assured that staff and guests of the restaurant are kept comfortable throughout their experience.”

High-performance Toshiba heating and cooling equipment has been used in combination with a solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage system as part of a project to help future-proof a five-bedroom home in Cheshire. Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd (TCUK) is part of Carrier Global Corporation, the global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable, and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. Toshiba ESTIA air-to-water heat pumps Two 11kW Toshiba ESTIA air-to-water heat pumps operating on lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant R-32 were installed at the 5,500ft2 property, alongside two Toshiba MiNi VRF systems. The Toshiba solution replaced an inefficient heating system and is supported by a 16kW solar PV installation plus 11kW of battery storage and measures including triple-glazing. Energy-neutral outdoor and indoor units  Homeowner and renewables consultant - Dave Meseck says the property is “energy-neutral” during the summer months, with generated and stored energy offsetting electricity consumed from the grid.  One of the ESTIA systems serves around 90m2 of underfloor heating in the open-plan kitchen and dining area, while the other provides hot water and heats the upstairs radiators and towel rails from a supplied 300-liter cylinder. The ESTIA indoor units include a 3kW backup heater to ensure continuity of operation at extremely low ambient air temperatures. Toshiba Mini SMMSe VRF The 5hp system provides heating and cooling for the room above a triple garage via a 5.6kW four-way cassette A 6hp (15.5kW) Toshiba Mini SMMSe VRF is connected to ducted units in the bedrooms and two of the newly designed compact 3.6kW one-way cassettes downstairs, which have been designed to fit between the joists on a traditional home. The second 5hp (14kW) system provides heating and cooling for the room above a triple garage via a 5.6kW Toshiba four-way cassette, while the garage space below, where a spa area is planned, is served by two wall-mounted units. Efficiency “The whole system has been running since December last year and the way it has transformed the house is fantastic,’’ said David Meseck, a Specialist in renewables, sustainability, and the circular economy. He adds, “It was important to get everything right; the project was sized correctly and the equipment installed properly." Cost-effective all-electric heating system As well as helping to future-proof our home and reducing energy costs, the changes have added value to the property" David Meseck continues, "Together with the other measures, we now have an efficient, all-electric heating system with the added benefit of cooling in summer, and the annual servicing cost is comparable to boiler cover. As well as helping to future-proof our home and reducing energy costs, the changes have added value to the property." He adds, "I would urge anyone looking to invest in their home to look at the bigger picture and make it an environmentally-responsible investment.’’ Four models are available in the ESTIA range, spanning capacities from 4-11kW, all with reversible operation to provide cooling as well as heating if required. twin rotary compressor At the heart of ESTIA is Toshiba's award-winning twin rotary compressor, which contributes to the system's outstanding energy efficiency rating of A+++. The compressor enables the heat pump to continue supplying hot water even during exceptionally cold weather, delivering water at 62 degrees C when outdoor temperatures fall to -25 degrees C. ESTIA can also continue producing DHW at exceptionally high outdoor temperatures (43 degrees C) to deliver maximum running cost savings. all-in-one floor-standing hydro-module Toshiba offers a space-saving wall-mounted hydro-module for boiler replacement projects such as this, with a choice of 150l, 200l, or 300l capacity external cylinders. For new-build projects, an all-in-one floor-standing hydro-module with an integrated 210l tank provides a compact solution for both heating and DHW storage. Easy-to-install ESTIA provides a superb solution for homeowners or small businesses looking to replace less efficient systems" “ESTIA provides a superb solution for homeowners or small businesses looking to replace less efficient systems," said David McSherry, David McSherry, Head of Sales for Toshiba Air Conditioning UK, Carrier Global Comfort Solutions Europe. “It is quick and easy to install on-site, and Toshiba’s renowned reliability means a long working life, backed by our excellent warranty.” Performance, warranty, and reliability Installer - Peter Franks, Managing Director of Mansfield-based Woburn Mechanical Services Ltd, added, “This is by some distance the biggest domestic project we have undertaken. The customer knew exactly what he wanted and now has a comprehensive heating and cooling system." Peter Franks concludes, "The Toshiba equipment is excellent in terms of performance and reliability and comes with a seven-year warranty. We wouldn’t be fitting it if we didn’t have complete confidence in it.’’

Trane® - by Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, and Parkway School District, one of the largest school districts in Missouri, USA, announced that the district has achieved a total energy savings of more than US$ 1.1 million in the four years following comprehensive energy and infrastructure upgrades. This is 10% higher than the initial savings guaranteed by Trane. Following the upgrades, the district is using less electricity and natural gas, resulting in a 26% reduction in energy usage annually. The project also reduced the district’s carbon emissions by more than 9,000 metric tons, the equivalent of nearly 23 million miles driven by an average passenger vehicle. Trane and Parkway School District partnership Over the past 18 years, they have collaborated on many energy efficiency projects These gains are the result of a long-standing relationship between Trane and Parkway School District. Over the past 18 years, they have collaborated on many energy efficiency projects across the district including LED lighting, roofing insulation, and heating and cooling plant infrastructure upgrades in support of the school district's long-held commitment to sustainable technologies. District motto – ‘Higher Expectations, Brighter Futures’ “Our district motto is ‘Higher Expectations. Brighter Futures,’ and what we have achieved working with Trane is an excellent example of what that can mean,” said Patty Bedborough, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Parkway School District. Patty Bedborough adds, “Through our collaboration, we have surpassed our already-high expectations for energy efficiency. Not only does this support our ongoing commitment to sustainability, it allows us to prioritize more dollars toward student education.” Trane installs on-campus geothermal energy plant Most recently, the district worked with Trane to install an on-campus geothermal energy plant at Parkway South High School, the district’s largest school and most significant energy consumer, when one of two chillers in its aging chiller plant became non-functional. The energy upgrade, completed in 2021, was the first of its kind in the Greater St. Louis area and reduced the school’s carbon footprint, while increasing energy efficiency, preserving campus aesthetics and minimizing architectural and acoustical impacts. Trane deploys highly-efficient solutions We are proud to support the district’s measures to implement highly-efficient solutions" “It is a privilege to work with Parkway School District, a recognized sustainability leader in the education space,” said Jennifer Geen, Senior Account Manager - Complex Solutions at Trane. Jennifer Geen adds, “We are proud to support the district’s measures to implement highly-efficient solutions that help create a better indoor environment for students and staff alike while reducing the district’s energy use, carbon emissions and costs, all of which will benefit the community for years to come.” Trane’s work with Parkway School District supports Trane Technologies’ 2030 Sustainability Commitments, including its Gigaton Challenge, which aims to reduce one gigaton – or, a billion metric tons – of customers’ carbon emissions by 2030. Parkway School District The Parkway School District is one of the premier school districts in the Midwest and St. Louis region, in the United States of America (USA). Parkway’s 29 schools and Early Childhood Center are renowned for their achievements, with 17 Blue Ribbon Awards for Excellence in Education from the U.S. Department of Education and 19 Gold Star Awards from the US State of Missouri. All four traditional Parkway high schools are consistently named among the country’s Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. While each school is unique, collectively they make up one of the highest-performing school districts in the country.

For schools, improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is a basic function of HVAC systems, which also ensures a high comfort level for students, teachers and staff. Schools can be a lucrative market for HVAC systems, but there are challenges, such as long sales cycles and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the challenges for HVAC in serving the education/schools market?

The practice of working from home soared during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and many observers see a likely continuation of the trend, as infection risks gradually subside. Both environments – home and office – depend on HVAC systems to keep occupants comfortable (and safe!). Therefore, the industry stands to be impacted whichever way the trend plays out. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How will remote working affect residential and commercial HVAC?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software and other technologies to facilitate connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the internet. Use of the IoT is expanding among both business and residential applications. However, there are hurdles to overcome, including security, privacy and networking challenges. As more HVAC devices embrace the IoT, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on the HVAC market?