R-32

Carrier AquaSnap® 30RBP air-cooled scroll chillers operating on lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant R-32 are providing high-efficiency cooling and heating for the world’s largest vertical farm in Lydney located in the Forest of Dean district in Gloucestershire, operated by Jones Food Company. Jones Food Company The vertical farm, the size of seventy tennis courts, offers 148,000 square feet of growing space for stacking crops 15 layers high and is expected to supply 1,000 tonnes of fresh produce a year to UK supermarkets.  Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions.  heating and cooling solution The chillers specified needed to be compatible with Brooktherm’s control system Contractor Brooktherm Refrigeration Ltd was tasked with providing an HVAC solution capable of delivering a constant supply of efficient heating and cooling to the pressurized warehouse. The chillers specified needed to be compatible with Brooktherm’s control system.  “One of the key challenges was the requirement to achieve four different temperature and humidity set points,” said Ben Doherty, Projects Coordinator, Brooktherm Refrigeration Ltd. “With the support of Carrier, we achieved them all.”   AquaSnap 30RBP air-cooled scroll chillers Carrier recommended its flexible and compact AquaSnap 30RBP air-cooled scroll chillers with refrigerant R-32, which operate from -0oC up to +48oC, and come with Greenspeed intelligence® variable-speed pumps to reduce pumping energy consumption by up to two-thirds. The innovative solutions support Carrier’s ESG goal of helping customers avoid more than 1 gigaton of GHG emissions by 2030.   Energy savings The Carrier chillers have a heat recovery system that enables waste heat to be captured and used for various applications The Carrier chillers have a heat recovery system that enables waste heat to be captured and used for various heating applications on-site, saving energy while maintaining optimum growing conditions. The cultivation warehouse is served by two HVAC plants, one on the north side and one on the south side, each equipped with two Carrier chillers, delivering a total of 2.2 megawatts of cooling and heating to the growing room.  sustainable new approach “This exciting project is an efficient and environmentally responsible way to produce food and Carrier was delighted to be part of such a pioneering, sustainable new approach to growing the nation’s food,” said Paul Hill, Regional Sales Manager, Carrier UK. “The HVAC plant was fully commissioned summer of 2023, and by October the entire growing area was fully planted, allowing the operator to harvest a tonne in weight of basil and leafy greens every 19 days.”  Vertical farming “With our new facility, we further accelerate Britain’s position as a world pioneer when it comes to vertical farming,” said James Lloyd-Jones, Chief Executive Officer, of Jones Food Company. “We already supply thousands of British retail stores with asil grown in our first facility in Lincolnshire, but our Lydney site is three times bigger and will allow us to supply a greater range to more stores.”

Daikin Applied has introduced enhancements to its award-winning Rebel Applied™ commercial heating and cooling system. The packaged rooftop HVAC system is available in a bigger cabinet that provides 45-75 tons of air-conditioning capacity with supply airflow volumes of up to 29,000 cubic feet per minute (CFM).  climate-friendly refrigerant The new unit also features low-global warming potential (GWP) R-32 refrigerant. With the transition to a more climate-friendly refrigerant, the new upgrades provide building owners with a cost-effective solution to improve energy efficiency and start decarbonizing facilities. design and efficiency "Rebel Applied has already set the standard for high-performance design and efficiency, pairing unlimited configurability with low lifecycle costs," said Jim Macosko, Vice President of Product and Sustainability Solutions at Daikin Applied. Jim Macosko adds, "Adding R-32 to this packaged system delivers even greater energy efficiency and ability to cut carbon emissions. It enhances how buildings can be designed to advance decarbonization efforts and help optimize the environment indoors and out." R-32 refrigerant Not only is R-32 a more sustainable choice, but it stands as one of the most efficient and proven options available Daikin Applied has committed to R-32 for applications that previously used R-410A refrigerant, which is gradually being phased out by new federal and state regulations in the U.S. As a single-component refrigerant, R-32 boasts a two-thirds lower GWP compared to R-410A. Not only is R-32 a more sustainable choice, but it stands as one of the most efficient and proven options available. In fact, with over 230 million R-32 HVAC units already installed worldwide, this refrigerant has been tested and widely recognized for its exceptional performance. carbon-reduction-focused features The addition of R-32 to Rebel Applied adds to a growing list of efficiency- and carbon-reduction-focused features. For example, the system is available with Daikin inverter compressors, another technology that's core to decarbonization. By continually adjusting to building load, these compressors help Rebel Applied consume less energy at part load to deliver an Integrated Energy Efficiency Rating (IEER) as high as 20.3, more than 40 percent above the ASHRAE 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings. Rebel Applied also features Sorbent Ventilation Technology® (SVT®) from enVerid Systems that allows building operators to decrease the volume of outdoor air needed and the total cooling load of their buildings, which can trim HVAC energy use by up to 30%. cabinet sizes The units feature an adaptable base channel designed to ease the replacement of various rooftop products Rebel Applied has three cabinet sizes — 45-75 tons (C cabinet), 31-52 tons (B cabinet) and 20-34 tons (A cabinet). These units also feature an adaptable base channel designed to ease the replacement of various rooftop products by fitting existing curbs and ductwork connections.  This eliminates the need for a transition curb, which inflates installation time and costs when replacing existing units.  Applications As a result, Rebel Applied is ideal for a range of facilities with distinct needs, from offices and hospitals to schools and retail stores. The C cabinet is available with R-32 and the other two will be transitioned to the low-GWP refrigerant in the coming months.

Daikin, a pioneer global air-conditioning company, will highlight its commitment to advancing the HVAC industry’s transition to a sustainable future at the 2024 AHR Expo, Jan. 22-24 in Chicago. Heating and cooling solutions As a longstanding AHR Expo exhibitor, Daikin will display a wide range of heating and cooling solutions from across its portfolio, with a focus on decarbonizing homes and buildings to help improve the environment inside and out while reducing utility and operating costs. “Daikin has been at the forefront of HVAC solutions for decades,” said Philip Johnston, General Manager, of the Environmental Business Development Center at Daikin.  talent, technology, and services At the AHR Expo, Daikin will showcase its “Simple. Powerful. Sustainable.” approach to decarbonization “As industry demands evolve based on emerging climate-related HVAC challenges, Daikin has the talent, technology, and services to deliver unique, tailored solutions to customers who want to decarbonize.” At the AHR Expo, Daikin will showcase its “Simple. Powerful. Sustainable.” approach to decarbonization that revolves around the core technologies, low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, inverter compressors, and heat pumps developed to create more comfortable, efficient, and sustainable spaces to live and work.  Offerings at display Offerings featured at the expo will include: Simple: R-32 Refrigerant Daikin continues to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency with careful curation of refrigerant technology in its products. Focused on the “right refrigerant for the right application,” Daikin is integrating low-GWP refrigerants that can reduce the climate impact of heating and cooling homes and buildings. In particular, the company has committed to R-32 refrigerant in applications that previously used R-410A, which is being phased out due to state and federal regulations. R-32, a single-component refrigerant, has two-thirds less GWP than R-410A, and more than 230 million R-32 HVAC units are installed in over 130 countries. Daikin ATMOSPHERA Daikin is currently reengineering its residential ducted and ductless products to take advantage of the benefits of R-32 In December 2021, Daikin launched the first split system with R-32 in North America, Daikin ATMOSPHERA, a single-zone ductless system that can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to similar R-410A systems and has efficiencies of up to 27.4 SEER2 and 11.2 HSPF2.  Daikin is currently reengineering its residential ducted and ductless products to take advantage of the benefits of R-32 refrigerant and the company plans to relaunch products by the end of 2024. Trailblazer® AGZ-F For commercial and industrial applications, Daikin recently introduced the Trailblazer® AGZ-F, one of the first R-32 air-cooled scroll chillers available in North America. With R-32, Trailblazer AGZ-F delivers up to 10% greater capacity and efficiency versus previous models. It also has a 33% reduced footprint and 10% reduced weight than previous models, requiring less raw material to build. Powerful: Inverter Compressors Inverter-based systems offer additional benefits including quiet operation and consistent temperature Inverter compressors are foundational to energy-efficient heating and cooling. With inverter technology, Daikin HVAC systems optimize energy use and eliminate wasted operation by precisely controlling the motor speed within a unit’s compressor. Inverter-based systems offer additional benefits including quiet operation and consistent temperature and comfort control. Rebel Applied™ packaged rooftop system The award-winning Rebel Applied™ packaged rooftop system, for example, is available with inverter scroll compressors.  By continually adjusting to the building load, Rebel Applied consumes less energy at part load to deliver an Integrated Energy Efficiency Rating (IEER) as high as 20, more than 40 percent above the ASHRAE 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings. Daikin ONE products and services Dakin One Cloud Services for residential customers is available with the Daikin ONE+ smart thermostat The control technology managing the equipment is as important as the compressor. Some popular residential HVAC controls provide connectivity features for homeowners but do not maximize the benefits of inverter technology. Daikin has launched a suite of Daikin ONE products and services that not only provide the IoT features users want, but also monitor and control systems for optimal performance.  For instance, Dakin One Cloud Services for residential customers is available with the Daikin ONE+ smart thermostat or the new Daikin ONE touch thermostat. A recently announced new feature for certain inverter systems, Quality Install, is a cloud-connected installation commissioning tool that helps technicians verify installations for optimal performance of the system. Sustainable: Heat Pumps As the industry advances electrified equipment, residential and commercial heat pumps deliver electricity-powered heating and cooling that reduces the need to use fossil fuels and standard combustion methods to control indoor temperatures. Daikin offers an extensive lineup of inverter heat pump systems, providing immense flexibility for all applications. VRV LIFE heat pump systems Daikin’s VRV LIFE heat pump systems provide ultimate design flexibility in homes Daikin’s VRV LIFE heat pump systems provide ultimate design flexibility in homes with up to nine zones connected to a single outdoor unit. Several ductless and ducted indoor models, including ducted gas furnaces for dual fuel operation, provide high heat pump capacities well below 0°F (-18°C). Trailblazer® HP is an air-to-water heat pump chiller Daikin’s 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. With advanced heat pump technology, the chiller is up to 300 percent efficient, which means it can transfer three times more heat than the energy used by the equipment. VRV EMERION Also for commercial applications, VRV EMERION provides either heat pump or heat recovery inverter technology. The heat recovery system offers simultaneous heating and cooling to both indoor ducted and ductless units and can be scaled to capacities of up to 40 tons with up to 64 indoor units connected to a single system.

At the 2024 AHR Expo in Chicago, Friedrich Air Conditioning, a pioneering U.S. manufacturer of premium HVAC solutions, unveiled its newest product line-up for residential, commercial, hospitality, and multi-family applications. The products range from award-winning air conditioners to new heat pumps and more, exemplifying the company’s continuous commitment to quality and innovation. Author's quote “With decarbonization efforts at the top of mind in the HVAC industry, Friedrich has taken a major leap forward in integrating heat pumps into all product categories," said TJ Wheeler, Senior Director of Friedrich. Friedrich has taken a major leap forward in integrating heat pumps into all product categories “We remain committed to developing differentiated, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions like the Breeze Ducted Mini Split Heat Pump, our new & improved Vert-I-Pak, and many other products designed for residential, commercial, and multi-family applications.” New suite of products Friedrich’s new suite of products include: Residential, Light Commercial, Government & Education Products: Breeze™ Inverter Ducted Mini Split Heat Pump: The easiest way to upgrade to an energy-efficient heat pump. Breeze can be paired with an existing gas-fired or electric furnace for retrofit applications. Or, install it with a matching Friedrich air handler for a complete package. With a 40% smaller footprint, Breeze also looks better and runs more quietly than traditional outdoor units. Floating Air® Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump: The ultimate in flexibility with three unique heat pump lines, and three versatile indoor options-wall mount, ducted, and cassette. Mix and match single and multi-zone, up to five zones. FastPro® technology to reduce service and installation time by up to 50%. Engineered with top cooling and heating performance in extreme climates. Kühl® Smart Room AC with Heat Pump: Unrivaled commercial-grade construction, available with a heat pump, and engineered up to 45% quieter, Kühl represents a new standard in room air conditioners. Kuhl is the perfect choice for school operations with integrated Wi-Fi controls offering advanced energy management grouping for multiple units. The optional MERV 13 filter also turns Kuhl into a clean air system. Available in the broadest capacity range on the market, and models to meet new A2L refrigerant requirements, Kuhl offers a room-to-room solution for most every application. WallMaster® Smart Through-the-Wall AC with Heat Pump: WallMaster® is the only perfect fit for existing 27” through-the-wall sleeves. They are commercial-grade, engineered for quiet operation, and offer integrated Wi-Fi with voice command. WallMaster is available in 8,000-16,000 Btu/hr with cool only, electric heat, and heat pump options.as well as models in A2L-compliant, low-GWP R-32 refrigerant. Hospitality & Multi-Family Products: Vert-I-Pak®: Friedrich's new Vert-I-Pak® is the first and only complete 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. Increased airflow, and higher blower static increases duct run length for even more ducting options, making Vert-I-Pak® an ideal solution for both hospitality and multifamily. The product line still features the revolutionary 'Free Floating' chassis design and superior insulation resulting in ultra-quiet operation. VRP® Studio Variable Refrigerant Package Air Conditioner: Award-winning plug-and-play product delivering variable-speed cooling, low ambient heat pump, and true make-up air-all in a smaller compact footprint. VRP® Studio is ideal for hospitality design trends and small chassis replacement needs, giving building owners and developers an industry-pioneering, high-tech, cost-effective alternative to more complex systems like VRF or WSHP. FreshAire® Package Terminal Heat Pumps: Patented technology uses a Precision Inverter compressor and main cooling system to optimize the temperature and humidity level of incoming air. The FreshAire® PTAC utilizes the main evaporator coil and Merv 8 filters to condition and filter the outside ventilation air. Hazardous Location, Industrial Product: Hazardgard® Room AC: For more than 30 years, industrial professionals have trusted Hazardgard® to deliver safe and reliable cooling in the most extreme conditions. Specifically designed to cool laboratories, control rooms, living quarters, storage areas, and other enclosures situated in hazardous locations. Visit Friedrich Air Conditioning in the South Building Booth #S7569 from January 22 through January 24, 2024, at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. Find out more about the award-winning products Friedrich will be showcasing, with innovative solutions for every application, at Friedrich.com.

Airzone Control, the provider of HVAC solutions for zoning, automation, and smart control, will showcase its expanded Easyzone product line at AHR Expo, the essential event for HVACR industry professionals.  This all-in-one zoning solution for concealed Inverter/VRF HVAC units is now compatible with the top seven pioneering manufacturers in the North American market, including Samsung, Daikin, Mitsubishi, LG, Toshiba, Fujitsu, and Hitachi. Zoning Zoning is a powerful tool for engineers, contractors, and owners in delivering decarbonization benefits to building designers, contractors, and owners while offering practical solutions that can help mitigate ASHRAE 15. Easyzone is Airzone’s uniquely effective plug-and-play zoning solution. There are compatible Easyzone prewired kits for all of the industry’s top providers, covering 90 percent of the North American market. Energy savings  At AHR, the Airzone team will be showcasing projects from across the US and Europe  Easyzone by Airzone eliminates the need for bypass dampers, resulting in optimal energy savings. At AHR, the Airzone team will be showcasing projects from across the US and Europe that will demonstrate the efficiency results and ease of application and installation. Leveraging Easyzone for ASHRAE 15 Compliance The HVAC industry will navigate a complex minefield of efficiency incentives and regulatory changes over the next three years; zoning solutions will be essential to the industry’s future. The EPA has mandated a transition away from R-410A refrigerants to R-32. These newer, more climate-friendly refrigerants are far more volatile: To ensure system safety, ASHRAE Standard 15 will limit the amount of R-32 refrigerant each system may use. Airflow capacity A unique control board precisely adjusts the airflow and unit capacity, resulting in energy consumption savings  This leaves HVACR professionals with a paradox: how can they provide the same level of comfort from less powerful systems? Easyzone is this answer. This solution allows HVAC engineers to use fewer and/or less powerful air handling units (AHUs) than an unzoned solution. In addition, Airzone’s unique control board precisely adjusts the airflow and unit capacity, resulting in energy consumption savings of up to 30%. guidance on Regulations Airzone pioneers - Borja Fernandez and Victoria Garcia Massimo will offer additional guidance on navigating forthcoming regulations at the AHR session The No By-Pass Zoning Solution That Can Help Mitigate ASHRAE 15, scheduled for January 22, 2024, at 4:15 PM CT in Theater D. The presentation is free and open to all AHR attendees. This session will educate the design and construction community on simple, cost-effective zoning strategies for their next commercial or large residential project. comfort and compliant This is a proven solution North American engineers can rely on to effectively" “The growth of Easyzone solutions comes at a pivotal moment,” says Antonio Mediato, CEO of Airzone, adding “As a global pioneer in innovative HVAC control systems with a headquarters in Spain, Airzone has already weathered the transition to R-32 refrigerant." Antonio Mediato continues, "Easyzone already enables engineers across Europe to deliver both superior comfort and compliant system designs. This is a proven solution North American engineers can rely on to effectively reduce the number of AHUs per project, supporting ASHRAE Standard 15 compliance.” Flexibility for Any Application Easyzone offers the efficiency HVAC engineers will require for future designs as well as the flexibility to integrate with practically any system. Easyzone is compatible with a broad range of fully programmable wired and wireless thermostats and integrates with BMS such as BACnet and Modbus and home automation systems including Control4, Crestron, Lutron, ELAN, and Savant. The full power of Airzone’s portfolio will be on display at AHR Expo 2024. Stop by booth S8659 for additional information, and product demonstrations, or to connect directly with Airzone to learn more about how Easyzone can help users deliver efficiency and comfort with ease.

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announced the launch of the YORK® YVWH Water-to-Water Dual Variable Speed Screw Heat Pump, the first screw heat pump in North America to use R-1234ze refrigerant. R-1234ze is a refrigerant with an ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) of 1, enabling the YVWH to go considerably beyond the refrigerant regulations that go into effect starting January 1, 2025, as currently proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. YVWH heat pump YVWH is three times more energy efficient than a typical boiler and four times more efficient than a boiler The YVWH is three times more energy efficient than a typical boiler and four times more efficient than traditional boiler and chiller equipment when providing heating, cooling, and hot water for light commercial buildings and industrial processes.  By replacing a boiler or traditional equipment with the YVWH heat pump, commercial and industrial facilities can significantly reduce their energy use, water consumption and carbon emissions, while keeping occupants comfortable and processes running effectively. electrification of heating and cooling “Low-GWP refrigerants and the electrification of heating and cooling with heat pumps are two essential pieces of a successful sustainability strategy,” said Todd Grabowski, Vice President and General Manager of Applied Equipment at Johnson Controls. He adds, “Our teams engineered the YORK® YVWH heat pump to help our customers meet regulations and reach their net zero goals while satisfying their end-use applications. It’s another example of how we're engineering the future.” Heating and cooling functions With outstanding operational flexibility, the YVWH supports simultaneous heating and cooling functions and can be operated in three modes: heating only, cooling only, or simultaneous heating and cooling. YWVH is the first screw heat pump that can provide water temperatures up to 176°F (80°C) Especially advantageous for high-temperature hot water heating applications, the YWVH is the first screw heat pump that can provide water temperatures up to 176°F (80°C).  At that temperature, the unit can provide 4,050 MBH of heating while simultaneously providing 200 tons of chilled water cooling at 41°F (5°C). The YVWH also features variable-speed drive and has excellent turndown that allows it to run with as low as 25% of the design-heating load. YVWH product details Each YVWH unit is factory-tested to ensure performance and is highly scalable to meet application needs. Multiple units can be combined or work in parallel with other YORK water-to-water heat pumps like the CYK to increase capacity and application benefits. The YVWH joins the YORK family of heat pumps, which serve applications ranging from small commercial buildings to district heating. YVWH product details can be found in the new Johnson Controls selection tool. Solution Navigator is a one-stop, real-time platform that speeds up and simplifies the building management process and makes it easy to find products that best meet application needs.

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. 

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

With a required 15% increase in seasonal efficiency looming in 2023, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are being challenged to design HVAC rooftop units (RTUs) that both meet the immediate efficiency requirements and also set the stage for a refrigerant transition in 2025 and beyond. Meeting the challenges requires that new hardware designs be more than ‘a little bit better’; rather, complete shifts in technology are called for. Insights on the changing technologies and regulatory climate were provided at EnVisioneering Connect!, Danfoss' first-ever virtual conference for the North American HVACR industry. EnVisioneering Connect! virtual conference Compressors are becoming more efficient and there is a shift from fixed air volume flow to variable air volume and speed. More electronic devices will provide better metering of refrigerant into the units for optimized heat exchange. Manufacturers are seeking to do more with less and to squeeze more into a smaller package There is a move to micro-channel heat exchanges that permit a smaller footprint versus copper fin designs. Manufacturers are seeking to do more with less and to squeeze more into a smaller package. “The OEMs are doing the best they can to minimize the size, while keeping the same ‘curb size’ to simplify installation in the same space,” said Victor Marinich, Global Marketing Director, A/C, Danfoss, adding “As the technology evolves, installations will become more complicated given the variable speed fans, variable air volumes and so forth. There will be more electronics, when it comes to trouble-shooting and it will take more work commissioning and getting the electronics right.” Achieving new functionality in an efficient, effective way New designs must use 15% less energy without using more raw materials in manufacture. New functionality must be achieved in an efficient, effective, and cost-efficient way. Given the upcoming refrigerant transition in 2025, there are a ‘lot of moving parts’ that OEMs must think about. In effect, OEMs must accommodate energy efficiency requirements of 2023 and refrigeration transition of 2025 at the same time – there is no time for an additional redesign in the short time window.  Major trends include digitalization, urbanization Several megatrends are guiding the path towards more efficient dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS) and rooftop units (RTUs). The trends are digitalization, urbanization, electrification, climate change and food supply. With regards to climate change, Victor Marinich said “The greenest energy is energy we don’t use,” a principle that undermines the transition to more efficient units. As millions of people move into cities (urbanization), there are more housing needs and more air conditioning. Electrification will decrease our use of fossil fuels. The industry will need to use 40% less R410A or use new refrigerants with a lower GWP The refrigerant transition The refrigerant transition, specified by the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2019, requires a 40% reduction in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by 2024. The industry will need to use 40% less R410A (today’s most popular refrigerant with a globing warming potential (GWP) of 2088) or use new refrigerants with a lower GWP. New refrigerants will need to have a GWP limit of 750 or less. Rooftops and DOAS will transition by 2025 Another choice is R454B refrigerant, which mimics performance of R410A refrigerant Rooftops and DOAS will transition by 2025. Of the alternative refrigerants, R32 refrigerant is higher pressure and denser, which allows for a smaller unit (and lower cost), but all components must be rated for higher pressure. Another choice is R454B refrigerant, which mimics performance of R410A refrigerant. Current components could be used in a newer system with similar capacity and performance. However, there are no comparable advantages of smaller hardware size. Balancing the advantages of both new refrigerants The industry will seek to balance the advantages of both new refrigerants when going to market. Redesign considerations include compatibility, performance, price, pressure, and temperature. Because the newer refrigerants are mildly flammable, additional safety precautions are needed. A challenge is that among U.S. Commercial Building stock, there are about 47% (of 6 million buildings) that are using a unitary product. Thus, there is a lot of refrigerants to consider. Greater emphasis on indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort Additional trends impacting RTU and DOAS units include an increasing emphasis on indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort. There is a transition to more Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity enabling more efficiency, diagnostics and preventative maintenance. There are also resource pressures, including manpower requirements and raw materials availability There are also resource pressures, including manpower requirements and raw materials availability, and pricing (including copper, steel, and aluminum). As the move toward renewable energy and electric heating continues, only 10% of rooftop systems are currently reversible heat pump units, although the technology has progressed and offers better performance since the 1970s. Rooftop units (RTUs) and DOAS units DOAS units supply 100% outdoor air and bring it into the building, while a traditional RTU mostly recirculates indoor air. DOAS units work in conjunction with a rooftop unit or other types of air conditioners. The DOAS pulls the moisture out of the outdoor air (latent load) and brings dry air in the building, thereby enabling the RTU to focus on the temperature of the air (sensible load). DOAS advantages include the use of a smaller primary AC system, and more ventilation and filtration to improve IAQ. In effect, DOAS equipment complements RTUs.

When they are one of the largest beverage distributors in the U.S., it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve on everything that drives customer satisfaction, corporate responsibility, and a strong bottom line. Hensley Beverage Company did exactly that when it collaborated with Chemours and American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc. (ARS) to implement a system utilizing a new-generation A2L refrigerant, Chemours Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C). Completed in 2023, the installation paves the way for companies throughout the commercial refrigeration industry to embrace refrigerant technologies that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. Situation The company recently ended an acquisition that grew its distribution footprint into New Mexico Hensley Beverage, a Phoenix-based beverage wholesaler, supports a customer base of more than 9,000 accounts and more than 2,500 individual products, operating out of six locations across Arizona.  The company recently completed an acquisition that expanded its distribution footprint into New Mexico, making it one of the largest family-owned and operated beverage distributors in the nation. As it grows, Hensley remains committed to maintaining exceptional product integrity, upholding its multi-generational family business legacy, and supporting a variety of environmental objectives. These factors, coupled with the current regulatory landscape (notably, the phasedown of legacy hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants), have put Hensley’s focus on ways to upgrade its refrigeration systems. Phasedown of HFC refrigerants For the past several years, Chemours, ARS, and Hensley have worked together to retrofit the distributor’s existing R-22 and R-404A systems to Opteon™ XP40 (R-449A), a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blend offering zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than legacy products. However, with the ongoing phasedown of HFC refrigerants under the U.S. EPA’s American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), the teams began weighing the benefits of an even bolder upgrade. “Hensley Beverage is proud to partner with Chemours, TBSI, and ARS to help develop innovative solutions and responsible business practices that drive sustainability in our community. These groundbreaking results are a culmination of partnership and collaboration. It is refreshing to work with three organizations that are this passionate about developing pioneering products that will help shape a better future for the communities we serve,” Alex Dunn SVP of Operations, Hensley Beverage.  Solution Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan Even as Chemours, ARS, and Hensley continued to strategically employ retrofit solutions in some areas, they explored options that would put the company in a stronger position for the long term. Chemours recommended bringing Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C) into Hensley’s refrigeration plan. A mildly flammable refrigerant with an ASHRAE A2L safety classification, Opteon™ XL20 is designed for use in new equipment, so Hensley identified an old R-22 system near the end of its life that was ideal for replacement by a new system using Opteon™.  Opteon™ XL20 has been used for several years in Europe and is expected to become the new norm in the U.S. by 2026, based on the current direction provided by the EPA. Leveraging its experience in Europe, the Chemours team of technical service and business development resources is prepared to support end users as they consider trial installations using A2L refrigerants. Features of Opteon™ XL20 Opteon™ XL20—the future of sustainable low- and medium-temperature refrigeration GWP of 148 (a 96% reduction versus R-404A)  Zero ODP Enables much higher charge sizes than highly flammable A3 refrigerants Is a close performance match to R-22 and R-404A Offers the optimum balance of performance and environmental sustainability Provides an easy, cost-effective alternative to legacy refrigerants in new equipment applications Utilizes well-known technology for ease of service and maintenance Benefits of HFOs Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better “Hensley was an early adopter of Opteon™ XP40, retrofitting equipment to experience better environmental outcomes, as well as high performance in low- and medium-temperature applications. Experiencing these benefits of HFOs whet their appetite to ask, ‘What next?’ With a strong dedication to supporting their communities and the environment while operating an efficient and thriving business, Hensley is a company that pushes the envelope." "Chemours was ready with our next-generation Opteon™ XL20—that will ensure they achieve maximum performance, operating efficiency, and sustainability," Joe Martinko President, Thermal and Specialized Solutions, Chemours. New low GWP refrigerant  “Our industry is undergoing some of the most significant regulatory changes in history and will be for the foreseeable future. ARS was excited to work with Chemours and be a part of the launch at Hensley of the new low GWP refrigerant." "It’s been a privilege for ARS to help bring together such an excellent group of partners for this project—and to install a first-of-its-kind system right here in Tucson, a community we’ve proudly served since 1948,” John White President, American Refrigeration Supplies, Inc.  Opteon™ XL20 properties ASHRAE Number: R-454C Composition Weight%: R-32/R-1234yf 21.5/78.5 Molecular Weight: 90.8 g/mol Normal Boiling Point: -45.6 °C (-50.0 °F) Critical Pressure: 4318.9 kPa (626.4 psia) Critical Temperature: 85.7 °C (186.2 °F) Liquid Density at 21.1 °C (70 °F): 1058.2 kg/m³ (66.1 lb/ft³) Ozone Depletion Potential (CFC-11 = 1.0): 0 AR4 (AR5) GWP (CO₂ = 1.0): 148 (146) ASHRAE Safety Classification: A2L Temperature Glide: ~6 K (~10.8 R) LFL (UL 60335 2-89 WCF): 0.291 kg/m³ (0.018 lb/ft³). Collaboration and Installation The installation brought together additional resources from the HVACR industry, including Copeland and Heatcraft Refrigeration Products— two ARS manufacturing partners—as well as Technical Building Services, Inc. (TBSI), the local HVACR service provider. As HVACR technology providers helping customers achieve their sustainability, decarbonization, and regulatory compliance goals, Heatcraft and Copeland had the knowledge and experience of emerging A2L requirements and the capabilities to support the project. TBSI was selected as the contractor for installation and servicing.  Use of R-22 in other Hensley systems Installation, evacuation, and setting methods were very similar to the recent refrigerants With the team assembled, Chemours took the lead on the project, ensuring that the contractor, Hensley’s service personnel, and others involved were certified through the ESCO Institute’s A2L refrigerant training program, and answering any questions from the local authorities.  After safely recovering the R-22 for use in other Hensley systems, the team from TBSI started removing the existing Keg 6 equipment, hanging new evaporator coils, and running new refrigerant lines. Installation, evacuation, and charging procedures were very similar to the current refrigerants in use by industry, making for a time- and cost-efficient process. Next generation of climate technology “Copeland has always been focused on not just setting the standard in climate solutions with pioneering brands in compression, controls, software, and monitoring—but pioneering the evolution in this space. Our role in the system design and installation for Hensley was right in our wheelhouse. What we accomplished together demonstrates that by bringing together energy-efficient products, regulation-ready solutions, and expertise, we can revolutionize the next generation of climate technology for the better,” Brian Schroeder Engineering Manager, Refrigerants, Copeland.  “Our tools and gauges were already enabled for the R-454C refrigerant. The startup and charging of both systems went pretty smoothly. TBSI is proud to have participated in the project at Hensley and, by doing so, adding to the variety of equipment we’ve worked on since founding our business in 1990. This was a great opportunity to grow our experience with A2Ls,” Sergio Pelayo Vice President, TBSI.  Copeland monitoring data Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second To make sure the system performed as expected, Copeland applied monitoring units to the systems that capture nearly two dozen data points every second. The data has shown that the systems are running as designed.  “We are thrilled with the results of the R-454C project with Hensley Beverage. As we continue our journey toward new regulation compliance, this successful collaboration has been instrumental in leveraging Heatcraft’s new product design efforts, with A2L refrigerants being an important part of the mix. We are poised to lead the industry and provide more customers like Hensley with cutting-edge solutions that drive their success,” Bob Landi Vice President and General Manager, Heatcraft Refrigeration Products. Summary Influenced by upcoming regulatory changes and stronger organizational ESG commitments, the commercial refrigeration industry’s transition to lower GWP refrigerants is inevitable. Opteon™ refrigerants provide organizations with lower GWP options that can help extend the useful life of their systems, as well as new equipment options that enable decades of reliable operation. Moreover, these systems answer the consumer preference for businesses that utilize responsibly manufactured products and support a greener environment. Hensley’s approach demonstrates an ideal way for companies to meet the needs of refrigerating their products while following the guidelines of the HFC phasedown. It’s important to assess where your equipment is in its lifecycle and determine if it makes the most sense in terms of budget, performance needs, and corporate vision to (1) retrofit existing equipment for more efficient and sustainable operation or (2) replace it with A2L refrigerant technologies and products.

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.’’

ECO Steam and Heating ordered a 10MW Electrode Steam Boiler for their Dutch customer - MARS WRIGLEY in Veghel. This is the largest chocolate bar factory in the world that produces brands, such as Twix, Mars, and Bounty. PARAT Halvorsen AS will deliver the 10MW High Voltage Electrode Steam Boiler that will reduce emissions and bring flexibility to their boiler house.  Power to Heat system The Power to Heat system will be delivered with a 10kV Connection, Design Temperature of 204°C, Operating Pressure of 13.5 barg, Circulation Pumps, and Feedwater Pumps. ECO Steam and Heating will take care of the Project Management, including lift-in and installation of the complete boiler system, while PARAT will do the start-up and training of personnel.

Paragon House – an 11 story teaching block at the University of West London (UWL), has recently replaced its gas boiler heating system with a ground-breaking first for Europe and the UK, by Finn Geotherm installing three x 210kW Panasonic air-to-water heat pumps with a bespoke cascading thermostatic control system to heat the entire building. The University of West London were looking to improve the energy performance of the building in a more sustainable way, reducing their carbon footprint and energy consumption, with the help of a Salix funded government grant (the UK Government’s Public Sector Decarbonization Scheme (PSDS) and the Low Carbon Skills Fund (LCSF)). Paragon House installs Panasonic heat pump system UWL appointed Ameresco as the main energy improvement contractor for the project UWL appointed Ameresco as the main energy improvement contractor for the project with Finn Geotherm as the contractor who specified and installed the 3 x 210kW Panasonic heat pump system, along with a bespoke cascade thermostatic control system that links with the building’s BMS. Paragon House is situated in a prestigious London location adjacent to the M4 with a mix of classroom and lecture theatres across 11 floors. Sustainable energy efficient system The main challenge for the project was that the University ideally wanted minimum internal disruption and an energy efficient system that could link and work with their existing pipework, radiators, cassettes and fan coils. A further challenge was lifting the three large 210kW units, each 6 square meters and weighing just over two tons onto the roof of the 11 story building. Detailed structural surveys were carried out to ensure the weight and distribution of the units at roof level would work effectively and safely. Panasonic air source heat pumps Guy Ransom, the Commercial Director at Finn Geotherm commented, “Originally it was thought that the best solution to meet the heat load for the entire building would be a ground source heat pump system but on initial surveys and inspections, it became apparent that the drilling of bore holes would be impossible given the ground space available and the proximity of the building to the M4 motorway and other busy London road networks.” Guy Ransom adds, “We have worked with Panasonic air source heat pumps over a number of years now and have developed a trusted two-way partnership with the team and where Panasonic has become our manufacturer of choice – we respect the quality of the units – they do what they say they can do.” Panasonic 210kW heat pump units installed Panasonic 210kW heat pump units installed at Paragon House were the first of their kind in the UK The Panasonic 210kW heat pump units installed at Paragon House were the first of their kind in the UK and Europe to be installed – the units offer outstanding efficiency with extremely high SEER and SCOP figures, can operate in temperatures as lows a -17 degrees Celsius in heating mode, are quiet in operation, offer a customizable design with capacities from 20k to 210kW, and can be integrated into a BMS control system. The team at Finn Geotherm worked with Panasonic’s European R&D and UK teams to obtain test data to support the specification of the units. The two teams liaised over a number of weeks to verify the data, ensuring the required range of output and input temperatures would work effectively on the bespoke thermostatic cascading control system. Maximize the use of the heat pump The aim was to maximize the use of the heat pump use when a back-up system was insisted on by the client for the Paragon House project. Guy Ransom stated, “We worked closely with the wider team at Panasonic and carefully laser measured and assessed the heat loss for each area of the building to ensure that the units would be able to distribute a similar level of comfort to the existing gas boiler system.” He adds, “The Panasonic system now installed at Paragon House was the first of its kind in Europe – this ground-breaking project pushes the envelope for similar large renovation projects in the future that are looking to decarbonize their heating systems - the customer is very happy with the end result.” Panasonic system lowers the carbon footprint The Panasonic system has lowered the carbon footprint of the property The Panasonic system has lowered the carbon footprint of the property and is highly energy efficient to run with little impact on the interior pipework and space within the building. The units are located on the roof to ensure they are discreet, quiet and unobtrusive to the surrounding area, having very little impact on the day to day running of the building during installation. A construction of support spreader beams and plates was designed to distribute the load within the tolerance of the roof area. University of West London pleased with the results Claire Willits, the Director of Property Services at the University of West London (UWL) said, “The University of West London has been very pleased with the results of the project and having now been through our first winter running on the new systems we can safely say the technology works!” Claire Willits adds, “This project has made a significant contribution in our carbon reduction journey and has given us reassurance that change for the better of the environment can also be cost-effective and deliver a practical operational solution.” Exceptional energy savings It is estimated that Paragon House will receive energy savings in the region of 1,058,000 kWh per year It is estimated that Paragon House will receive energy savings in the region of 1,058,000 kWh per year. Considering the other two Panasonic installs at UWL, the total amount of energy saving is expected to be in excess of 500 tons of CO2 per annum. The above project was recently announced as the award winner of the National Renewable Heat Project of the Year at the Energy Efficiency Awards 2022. Seamless design and installation Harvey Loyal, Specification Sales London for Panasonic, stated “The control of the 210kW units were new to the market when Finn Geotherm came to us with the project – we worked with the wider Panasonic technical team and Finn Geotherm to provide a seamless design and installation.” Harvey Loyal adds, “As this was a European first and so for peace of mind, the original boilers were kept as a back-up should the outside temperatures reach -5 degree or lower. 12 months following the installation, Paragon House has confirmed the boiler system has not once been utilized and the heating produced from the Panasonic Air-to-Water system fully meets the heating requirements of the building.” Since the initial installation of Panasonic air source heat pumps at Paragon House, Finn Geotherm has installed similar Panasonic systems in several other similar buildings across UWL, as well as many other large projects in and around the London area.