Refrigerants

The HVAC industry operates on the pillars of reliability, efficiency, and performance. When selecting commercial HVAC tools, prioritizing functionality over flashy marketing claims ensures smoother operations and long-term success. Despite the wide range of tools used in the industry, there are certain fundamental attributes that should be desired and observed in products before purchase, specifically in commercial use. Explore this comprehensive guide detailing the essential factors to consider when investing in commercial HVAC tools. Performance in Real-World Conditions Commercial HVAC systems often face harsh environments in day-to-day tasks. Therefore, prioritize tools proven to withstand such conditions without compromising efficiency. Prioritize tools proven to withstand such conditions without compromising efficiency Tools that aren’t adequately tested for real-world conditions may fail when faced with challenging environments, leading to delays, frustrations, and potential safety hazards for technicians and occupants alike. Look for tools tested and approved for real-world scenarios to ensure consistent performance. Durability and Reliability Commercial HVAC tools undergo rigorous use day in and day out, from installation and maintenance to repairs and upgrades. Therefore, durability and reliability are non-negotiable factors when selecting tools for commercial applications. Tools built with quality materials and sturdy construction can withstand the demands of daily use, ensuring longevity and minimizing the need for frequent replacements. While durable tools may come with a higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Skimping on quality can lead to frequent replacements, downtime, and potential safety hazards, ultimately costing more in the long run. Precision and Accuracy The light-weight, inverter-driven, dual-stage vacuum pump delivers high-speed evacuation In the world of HVAC, precision is paramount. Whether it’s diagnosing system issues, calibrating equipment, or ensuring proper airflow and temperature control, accurate measurements are essential for not only daily work but also effective troubleshooting and maintenance.  Like with durable and reliable tools, investing in precision tools may require a higher upfront cost, but the long-term benefits justify the expense by reducing callbacks and improving overall service quality. NAVAC’s NRP8Di Smart Vacuum Pump acts as an inverter, vacuum measurement and smart control all in one unit. The light-weight, inverter-driven, dual-stage vacuum pump delivers high-speed evacuation along with high ultimate vacuum all while providing precise measurements of the system pressure. Efficiency and Time-Saving Features With tight schedules, demanding clients, and complex projects, HVAC professionals need tools that can help them work smarter, not harder. Look for efficient tools designed to streamline tasks, minimize downtime, and maximize productivity, ultimately saving time and effort on the job. By reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks like recovery, evacuation, and charging, technicians can take on more jobs and generate higher revenue without sacrificing quality. NAVAC’s NX1 Nexus Digital Manifold Gauge features Bluetooth and wireless capabilities For example, NAVAC’s NX1 Nexus Digital Manifold Gauge features Bluetooth and wireless capabilities, allowing technicians to remotely monitor and control HVAC systems from their smartphones or tablets. Additionally, digital manifold gauge set with automatic calculations can dramatically reduce the time required for tasks such as refrigerant charging, ensuring precise results with minimal effort. Safety Features in Commercial HVAC Tools Safety should always be a top priority in the industry. From working at heights to handling hazardous refrigerants, HVAC technicians face numerous risks on the job. Choosing tools with built-in safety features and designs can help minimize these risks and ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved. By prioritizing safety features in tool selection, contractors can demonstrate their commitment to protecting their employees and clients while also minimizing downtime and costly accidents. Size and Location In cramped or hard-to-reach spaces, the ability to maneuver tools effectively is essential When selecting HVAC tools for commercial use, it’s crucial to consider the tool size and location of the job site. Factors such as portability, maneuverability, and accessibility play a significant role in ensuring smooth operations and efficient workflow.  Commercial HVAC technicians often work in diverse environments, from large industrial facilities to compact office spaces. Opting for portable tools that are easy to transport between job sites can significantly enhance productivity and flexibility. In cramped or hard-to-reach spaces, the ability to maneuver tools effectively is essential. Ensuring smooth operations Choose tools that are compact and agile, allowing technicians to navigate tight corners, crawl spaces, and mechanical rooms with ease. Ignoring size and location considerations may lead to inefficiencies, frustrations, and safety hazards on the job site. Choose tools that are compact and agile, allowing technicians to navigate tight corners Tools that are too bulky or cumbersome may impede productivity, while those lacking accessibility features can prolong task completion times and increase the risk of errors or accidents. It’s essential to prioritize tools that strike the right balance between portability, maneuverability, and accessibility to meet the unique demands of each commercial HVAC project. NAVAC’s NRDD recovery unit now features a Brushless DC Motor making it lightweight and much more efficient. Suitable for all commonly used refrigerants, the unit’s large backlit display and self-purging functionality make it easy for technicians to monitor and operate the equipment, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime. Ease of Use and User-Friendliness User-friendly tools contribute to smoother operations, reduced training time, and lower maintenance costs for HVAC contractors. Look for tools with intuitive controls, comfortable designs, and accessible components that simplify operation and upkeep. Additionally, consider whether the manufacturer provides comprehensive instructions, whether in the form of a manual or instructional videos, to support efficient use and maintenance practices. By investing in tools that are easy to use and maintain, contractors can empower their workforce to work more efficiently and effectively, ultimately driving greater customer satisfaction and loyalty. NAVAC prides itself on user-friendliness, producing products with careful consideration. The NTE11L BreakFree® Power Tube Expander can expand a tube in 12 seconds by pressing one button, allowing up to 200 expansions on a single charge.

Carrier’s award-winning line of WeatherMaker® single-packaged rooftop units are now available with more environmentally sustainable R-454B refrigerant, known commercially as Puron Advance. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. The all-new Puron Advance™ 48FE gas heat and 50FE cooling-only WeatherMaker models feature Carrier’s refrigerant of choice for light commercial and residential applications. With a GWP100 of 466 according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report — a 75% reduction from R-410A — and non-ozone depleting potential, Puron Advance refrigerant was selected as one of the best solutions to minimize environmental impact and provide longevity based on the United Nations Montreal Protocol Kigali Agreement phasedown plan. GWP is a measure of a substance’s climate warming impact compared to CO2. Carrier’s 48/50FE WeatherMaker products  Carrier’s 48/50FE WeatherMaker products are currently offered in 3–6 ton sizes with larger tonnages The new WeatherMaker models include patented EcoBlue™ vane axial fan technology for improved performance and reliability. This award-winning fan design decreases maintenance and installation costs compared to prior designs and allows for cabinet sizes to remain the same—simplifying rooftop replacements. Carrier’s 48/50FE WeatherMaker products are currently offered in 3–6 ton sizes with larger tonnages and 50FEQ heat pump models expected mid-year. Carrier will move to an R-454B exclusive lineup for light commercial products, including high-efficiency heat pumps, hybrid heat models, and high outdoor air systems, by year’s end. All products are expected to launch in advance of the January 1, 2025, EPA regulatory deadline. Latest evolution of refrigerants “Carrier is pioneering the industry when it comes to adopting R-454B and introducing R-454B systems, helping our customers prepare to meet regulatory requirements while also designing our products to be efficient and innovative,” said Heidi Gehring, Managing Director of Light Commercial Solutions, Carrier. “Puron Advance is the latest evolution of refrigerants and shows a commitment to going beyond the minimum, surpassing the EPA’s lower GWP requirements for 2025.”

MAN Energy Solutions will supply its large-scale heat pump solution to Scout Motors Inc. for its new electric vehicle production in the State of South Carolina, USA. This major venture is part of a multi-billion investment by Volkswagen AG in the American company, which is producing the next generation of fully electric pickup trucks and sport-utility vehicles (SUVs), echoing the iconic Scout vehicles built from the 1960s to 1980. Located in Blythewood near Columbia in the heart of South Carolina, the new facility is designed for an annual production capacity of over 200,000 electric vehicles. With the factory sprawling across approximately 1,100 acres, the manufacturing site faces substantial heating and cooling demands. MAN Energy Solutions installs heat pump system To address these demands, MAN Energy Solutions will install a heat pump system featuring two compressors To address these demands, MAN Energy Solutions will install a heat pump system featuring two compressors, each delivering a 12.5 MW output. This solution will provide heating during the mild winter months and cooling throughout the hot summer, leveraging the heat pump's ability to transfer thermal energy from the ambient air. Gunnar Kilian, Member of the Board of Volkswagen AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of MAN Energy Solutions, stated: "The cooperation between MAN Energy Solutions and Scout Motors underscores the Volkswagen Group’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality at all production sites worldwide by 2040. By investing in the large-scale heat pump, both companies are setting a precedent for a sustainable future, as heat pumps make a significant contribution to a sustainable energy supply from both an ecological and economic perspective." MAN Energy Solutions and Scout Motors partnership "Scout has always been oriented toward community, family and the outdoors," said Scott Keogh, President and CEO of Scout Motors, adding "As we build our company, production center and ultimately our vehicles, we are taking great care to treat our community, air, land, water and people with respect. We’re just getting started. The inclusion of heat pumps in our facility is one of many sustainable practices we will implement over the next few years as we work to honor our lead with respect commitment." Future production facilities Uwe Lauber, CEO of MAN Energy Solutions, stated: "We are thrilled to partner with Scout Motors on this project. Our technology expertise and process knowledge allow us to provide the advantages of large-scale heat pumps to industrial and municipal customers. Our heat pump solution can meet a factory’s or a community’s heating and cooling needs without emitting any CO2. This project could serve as a blueprint for future production facilities in the US and all over the world." Adapting to seasonal requirements, the 25 MW heat pump solution features two five-stage RH71 heat pump compressors, each with a 12.5 MW capacity. Both units are used for cooling, while a single machine can fulfil heating needs. The order includes electric motors, process equipment such as condensers, coolers, evaporators, piping and a control system. Enhancing machine availability Handover and commissioning of the MAN large-scale heat pump is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 "The specific ambient conditions demanded a highly adaptable operating map for the applied turbomachinery technology," explained Mikael Adler, Senior Vice President, Head of Sales and Project Management Heat Pumps at MAN Energy Solutions, adding "The decision was made in favor of our RH compressor as the core technology of our advanced heat pump system for the Scout Motors project. The design minimizes the need for external piping and seals, enhancing machine availability." Vehicle production is targeted to begin by the end of 2026. Handover and commissioning of the MAN large-scale heat pump is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. Increasing energy efficiency Production is becoming more of a focus within Volkswagen Group’s Sustainability Strategy. The Group is aiming for carbon neutrality at all production sites worldwide as early as 2040 – 10 years earlier than planned. 90 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions are to be reduced compared to 2018 by changing the energy supply and increasing energy efficiency. By 2030, 100 percent of the external electricity supply at all locations, including China, should come from CO2-neutral sources. All European locations are already supplied with 100 percent green electricity. RH compressor at the core of MAN Energy Solutions’ large-scale heat pump system for Scout Motors.

CASPR Technologies, a pioneer in innovative air and surface purification solutions, announces the launch of its Home PRO line, designed to revolutionize indoor air quality management in single-family homes and residences. Built on CASPR's cutting-edge technology, the Home PRO units offer unparalleled effectiveness in reducing odors and providing relief from allergies, ensuring a healthier indoor environment for homeowners and occupants. Indoor air quality technology The Home PRO units utilize advanced purification technology developed by CASPR, leveraging the natural elements found in the air to create powerful oxidative molecules. These molecules effectively neutralize odors and reduce airborne pathogens, bacteria, and allergens without the use of chemicals, making them safe for continuous use around families, pets, and plants. Home PRO units utilize avant-purification technology set by CASPR, leveraging natural elements "We are thrilled to introduce our Home PRO line, which represents a significant advancement in indoor air quality technology in the home," said Nick Licata, CEO of CASPR Technologies. "Contrary to HEPA filter technology, CASPR's technology is mounted in the HVAC ductwork, and effectively treats air quality at the source, providing 24/7 silent protection from pathogens, common surface contaminants and allergens while improving air quality in any home environment." Enhanced indoor air quality solutions CASPR Technologies is also actively seeking new contractors and supply houses to join its network and help distribute the Home PRO line across various regions. By partnering with CASPR, contractors and supply houses can offer their customers a premier product that promotes a healthier living environment and meets the growing demand for enhanced indoor air quality solutions.  “During COVID, we did a lot of research ourselves to find the best line of indoor air quality. There are a million types of indoor air quality products, but we only wanted to sell the best and most effective,” said Tyler Biel of Eagle AC and Heating in Louisiana. “During our research period, we came across CASPR, and were very pleased with what we found and the overall results of the products, and even more impressed with the customer service provided. We now install the CASPR units on every new system install because we know the importance of having a healthy home. We highly recommend the CASPR system for all homes.”

GlassHouse introduces the first customer intelligence platform for the trades and home services industries, a digital solution transforming how contractors and business owners engage with customers. GlassHouse’s leverages the industry’s deepest catalog of consumer data to empower contractors and business owners with unprecedented buyer insights, helping businesses work with the right customers, grow their revenue, and become more profitable. GlassHouse offers "Many home service and skilled trades businesses spend too much time completing difficult jobs and chasing payments," said Jimmy Speyer, CEO of GlassHouse, adding "With the buyer intelligence, review collection and prospecting tools GlassHouse offers, they can prioritize sales and identify potential downstream costs before they accept a job." GlassHouse allows operators in home services, trade businesses, HVAC, electrical, plumbing He continues, "Our platform is the first solution that truly allows contractors to prioritize their loyal customers and get the best return for the time and capital they have invested in their business." GlassHouse allows operators in home services, trade businesses, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and pest control to easily access potential client reviews and get notifications about prospects so they can avoid potentially costly high-risk engagements and successfully align payment and engagement terms with customers. Customer engagement functions GlassHouse is the only vertical SaaS for trades and home services to feature a comprehensive range of customer engagement functions, including: Customer insights: When it comes to the success of any business, the quality of customers is just as important as the quantity. With GlassHouse, contractors can research buyers, collect reviews from customers, get feedback from their team, and make sure they get paid. Targeted prospecting: With over 4 billion data points, business owners can use GlassHouse to find and research the best buyers for their services. GlassHouse users can dive deep into a prospect’s digital footprint. Leveraging extensive public data, including income and credit range, review histories, and home size and history, contractors can tailor services and access detailed consumer information so they can target their ideal buyers. Free business review collection: GlassHouse makes collecting online reviews fast, easy and effective by automatically sending the customers to the review site they use the most. Rate the customers: GlassHouse users can enhance the industry’s major store of consumer data by reviewing customer interactions with just a few clicks. Integrations: The intuitive GlassHouse mobile app allows users to access and automate insights and track and enrich data from the field by connecting with multiple field management systems and office or accounting programs.  Customer intelligence platform "Customer intelligence can be the difference between a struggling company and a successful one," said Jimmy Speyer, adding "Knowing a good customer from a bad one can help reduce collections, increase revenue, and prevent negative business reviews." He continues, "GlassHouse is the first customer intelligence platform that empowers business owners to protect their company’s reputation and grow revenue by prioritizing good customers and minimizing risk."

Wauseon Machine, a globally renowned provider of automation solutions, tube forming technologies, precision machining, and fabrication, is proud to announce that Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), Joe Gemma, was awarded the prestigious Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for 2024, recognizing his exceptional leadership and contributions to the automation industry. The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) recognized Joe Gemma alongside two other industry pioneers for their significant impact within the field. This award, named after the late Joseph F. Engelberger, who is widely regarded as the Father of Industrial Robotics, celebrates excellence in technology development, application, education, and leadership in robotics. Impact on the automation sector  Joe Gemma's recognition in leadership underscores his profound impact on the automation sector Established in 1977, the award has been presented to 139 pioneers and is often referred to as the 'Hall of Fame' for the robotics and automation sector. The award will be presented at the Automate conference in Chicago on May 8, 2024. Joe Gemma's recognition in leadership underscores his profound impact on the automation sector throughout his distinguished career. His tenure includes pivotal roles as a Board Member of the Robotics Industries Association (RIA), currently known as A3, and as the President of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). Gemma’s leadership and contributions Jeff Burnstein, President of A3, commended this year’s Engelberger Robotics Awards honorees, stating, "Joe Gemma’s valuable leadership and contributions over the last 35+ years have been instrumental as we bring greater innovations to users worldwide." At Wauseon Machine, Joe Gemma has been a pivotal figure since joining in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time working for both system integrators and robotics OEMs. His responsibilities as CRO focus on pioneering the front end of the business, building on his extensive background in engineering, project management, business development, and sales management. Mission of automation solutions Upon receiving the award, Joe Gemma expressed his gratitude, saying, "This recognition goes out to all the people I have worked with through the years. It is an honor to accept this award on their behalf. I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to share the passion that many of us have for what automation means and what it does for manufacturing, for people, and for the world in general." Wauseon Machine is proud to have Joe Gemma on the team. His expertise continues to drive the mission of providing top automation solutions, precision machining, fabrication, and tube-forming technologies to manufacturing organizations across North America.

How can UK businesses effectively tackle the challenge of cooling commercial and industrial buildings? Cooling commercial and industrial buildings can be a challenge for UK businesses. In recent years, the spiraling energy costs have put pressure on businesses with regard to finding new and innovative ways to achieve the same result with less capital outlay and less maintenance. New system installs have sometimes been put on hold and maintenance schedules squeezed, leaving many businesses with the challenge of managing aging HVAC assets and deciding when and where to invest. Systems without regular maintenance can experience unpredictable downtime and parts availability is not always guaranteed. Evaporative Cooling Evaporative cooling is an alternative cooling method that not only offers higher energy efficiency Business owners will always wonder how they can improve the cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, and sustainability of systems their business needs. When it comes to cooling business premises, there’s a solution that not enough people know: Evaporative Cooling.  Evaporative cooling is an alternative cooling method that not only offers higher energy efficiency than alternative HVAC solutions but also has cheaper running costs. Since then, it has been our mission to develop and use this technology to tackle the cooling challenges in industrial processes. Cooling Challenges in Industrial Processes With regard to cooling, many industrial processes have a high heat gain, whereby the process itself generates heat which must be managed. There are numerous sectors where this is occurring, two prime examples from our customer experience are industrial-scale bakeries and plastic molding facilities. The production line may be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week In an industrial-scale bakery using modern production methods, the production line may be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The constant production of heat and steam from large ovens working to high temperatures must be managed carefully, especially given the health and safety requirements for food production areas. Heat gain from the industrial processes Plastic molding facilities manufacture a variety of end products from everyday items such as plastic bottles for household goods to more specialist storage and packaging products. In a plastic molding facility heat is used to mold the liquid plastic but chemical particles may also need extraction to maintain a safe working environment. Production in any of these facilities may be adversely affected by the heat gain in the process itself. Unplanned and unmanaged heat in any manufacturing facility has the potential to stop production resulting in a cascade of business interruption, lost revenues, damaged stock, and missed productivity targets. All potentially severe impacts for any business to consider. Plastic molding facilities manufacture a variety of end products. In addition to heat gain from the industrial processes, we should also note that UK air temperatures are rising, the top 10 warmest years for the UK since records began in 1884 have all occurred since 2002. As the UK continues to experience temperature rises and more seasonal fluctuations we need to look to those more experienced with warmer climates to optimize and improve our own approach to cooling these spaces. So, let’s consider the choices to cool large commercial and industrial spaces. Conventional air conditioning (AC) systems Cotton mills and textile plants were among the early adopters of the technological advancement Most of us will be familiar with conventional air conditioning (AC) systems but let’s review how they work: The first “modern” air conditioning unit was built by the American inventor Willis Carrier in 1902 and was used to control the temperature in the Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing & Publishing Company in Brooklyn, New York. This innovation helped to control the paper dimension and ink alignment. Cotton mills and textile plants were among the early adopters with the technological advancement soon spreading across the world. Today a conventional AC unit removes heat and moisture from the air. It uses a chemical refrigerant to cool the air which is then re-circulated in the building. The same air is then filtered as it returns to the unit. Key Facts of Conventional Air Conditioning Temperature can be controlled. Air is mostly recirculated within the space or building. The resultant energy performance of the system can be negatively impacted by high external temperatures, i.e., the hotter the external temperature the greater the amount of energy needed to run the unit and maintain the desired temperature. Complete systems are expensive to install and maintain due to the more complex requirements associated with the refrigerants used within the units. The cost to run large systems is expensive resulting in high and unpredictable energy bills. Chemical refrigerants are used ultimately negatively contributing to climate change. Conventional air conditioning cannot be said to be a bad choice however, in our experience, it is more suited to smaller spaces with a defined use. Office spaces would be a good example of where air conditioning systems can still be a good solution albeit without the benefit of reduced running costs. A fantastic sustainable alternative to conventional air conditioning is an evaporative cooling system. Historically championed in warmer climate countries, the technology delivers several benefits over and above conventional and familiar air conditioning. Evaporative Cooling Solutions Fresh, filtered air enters the system and is pulled through a cooling pad Reflecting on global history, examples of evaporative cooling can be seen as far back as 1350AD. One case describes how in Cairo, Egypt, a building was purposely situated up-wind, to catch the air and let it flow down the building and across a fountain which increased the relative humidity and lowered the temperature of the surrounding air. A fascinating early adoption of the evaporative cooling effect. Evaporative cooling systems as the name suggests use evaporation to cool the air; surprisingly no chemical refrigerants are involved in this process. Fresh, filtered air enters the system and is pulled through a cooling pad where the heat is absorbed. The resultant cooled air is distributed throughout the space via ducts. Key Facts of Evaporative Cooling Temperature and humidity can be accurately controlled. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is improved because of the introduction of 100% fresh outside air this in turn improves employee comfort, health, and well-being and supports good productivity. Cooling performance is improved with increasing external temperatures–efficiency rises along with the temperature. Initial capital outlay costs are relatively low, in comparison to a like-for-like conventional air conditioning system. Running costs are low, lowering energy bills and energy dependence. Based on the evaporation principle and using only water to cool, combined with the lack of chemical refrigerant make evaporative cooling a responsible, energy-efficient, and sustainable choice for cooling your industrial or commercial workplace. Lowering Carbon Footprint with Evaporative Cooling The carbon footprint is a method of determining environmental impact Lower your business carbon footprint with an evaporative cooling system. When measuring a carbon footprint, it’s the amount of carbon dioxide directly or indirectly produced. The carbon footprint is a method of determining environmental impact. If an industry appliance uses a low level of electricity, it minimizes the environmental impact. Evaporative cooling systems can contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of your factory and warehouse in the following ways: Evaporative cooling products can use up to 82% less energy compared with conventional air conditioning. This is a huge saving both initially and across a lifespan of more than 15 years. Evaporative coolers also consume up to 30% less water than conventional AC systems despite relying on water to provide evaporation for the cooling effect!  Addressing Industrial Hotspots In addition, industrial manufacturing workplaces often have hot spots that are uncomfortable to work in and those spaces are not just hotter than the rest of the building, but hotter than external ambient conditions. Evaporative cooling may be used to “spot cool” these hot spots and therefore reduce the need for the multiple units that would be needed to cool the entire space. Evaporative cooling is a proven technology perfect for all kinds of HVAC applications across multiple industries, this includes manufacturing plants and commercial warehouses. When cooling these large areas, evaporative cooling is repeatedly more cost-effective than traditional air conditioning. The primary benefit being the initial capital outlay to design and install the system is lower than conventional air conditioning. Secondly, the day-to-day running costs are again less owing to the reduced energy demand by the sophisticated technology used in these coolers. Unusually, these cost savings are also underpinned by the eco-friendly credentials of the technology, potentially contributing to reducing the carbon footprint of your business. This can be further enhanced by installing supportive clean energy technology such as solar power.

From temperate climates that reach mid-90 F in June and mild winters allowing people to be outdoors without jackets to the “May flowers” that bloom in early March, it’s evident that society is experiencing World Refrigeration Day’s 2024 theme: “Temperature matters.” In addition to driving climate change, global warming is driving changes in how people live and how industries adapt and innovate to support new dynamics. This is especially true for the HVACR Industry. Over the past several years, contractors have been busy installing and servicing cooling systems in climate zones that historically haven’t needed them. There’s a major focus on achieving more energy efficiency and lower water consumption in cooling the world’s escalating number of data centers.  Impact on HVACR Industry There’s also increased demand to conserve water in cooling towers and/or adiabatic condensers and for elevated indoor environmental quality (IEQ) to improve health and productivity. A few examples show how rising global temperatures are impacting the HVACR industry These few examples demonstrate how rising global temperatures are impacting the HVACR industry. Sharing a huge part of the spotlight of industry solutions are refrigerants, which now need to work harder than ever to keep people comfortable and foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals at proper temperatures. And they must do so without contributing to global warming and other environmental concerns. Refrigerant priority #1: lower GWP Assessing refrigerants for their ability to address climate change concerns starts with their global warming potential (GWP). That’s why attention has turned to A2Ls, which offer significantly lower GWP than legacy refrigerants. The three “big players” in the A2L arena—R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C—are now being selected for new-generation equipment solutions in various HVACR applications. A look at GWP reduction in a sampling of these applications tells the story: R-454A and R-454C can provide a 94% to 96% reduction in GWP as an alternative for R-404A, while offering similar performance Applications that historically would use a new R-410A unit can transition to R-454B, resulting in a 77% reduction in GWP. The industry is also choosing HFO-1234yf, an A2L currently used in air conditioners in 95 million vehicles on U.S. roads. HFO-1234yf has an AR4 GWP of 4 and is also used as a blend component in Chemours A1 and A2L products. Although A2Ls are for new equipment only, lower-GWP A1 refrigerant solutions can help in retrofits. For most applications using a higher-GWP HFC in an existing system, there’s likely a lower-GWP HFC/HFO blend for retrofit applications Other refrigerant priorities Of course, the value of a refrigerant is based on more than just low GWP Of course, the value of a refrigerant is based on more than just low GWP. The true innovation in refrigerant development lies in striking the optimal balance between environmental impact and performance for a diversity of applications. For example, after developing what are now considered three major players in the future of refrigerants—Chemours Opteon™ XL40 (R-454A), Opteon™ XL41 (R-454B), and Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C)—our chemists remain in the labs and work with pioneering industry partners to lower GWP even more, without compromising other properties. It’s important to consider how well a refrigerant addresses several key factors: Low GWP and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) Reduced energy consumption Circularity—the ability to be recovered, recycled, and reclaimed Lower operating costs over the lifetime of equipment Safety—for everyone from technicians to end users Overall performance—measured by capacity, reliability, and efficiency Can be serviced by a large existing workforce of trained technicians Responsible manufacturing focused on reducing carbon emissions Availability and supply chain strength A2L refrigerants have been designed with these factors in mind, raising the bar in terms of performance and support for environmental priorities. Addressing climate zone challenges In addition to solutions designed for today’s many residential, commercial, and industrial cooling and refrigeration applications, the industry needs a full toolbox of systems, components, and refrigerants to meet—in a highly efficient manner—the challenges of cooling and heating in various climate zones. These range from Zone 1, which is very hot, humid, and dry, to the subarctic Zone 8 ASHRAE divides the U.S. into eight major climate zones. These range from Zone 1, which is very hot, humid, and dry, to the subarctic Zone 8. In between these two extremes, we find various levels of heat/cold, humidity, and dryness. These climate zones provide system engineers with guidance for choosing the best designs—including refrigerant selection—so that each zone can be equipped with the appropriate system, optimized for year-round capacity, efficiency, reliability, and more. New-generation heat pumps For example, the high heat and humidity of a tropical climate put heavy demand on cooling equipment—from air conditioners to refrigeration systems. These cooling systems are likely to run most of the year, so choosing a highly energy-efficient option is paramount. By contrast, we have zones with overall colder ambient temperatures. Heat pumps must be properly sized to ensure occupant comfort. Cooling systems in these climates have limited use during the year, but they must perform reliably when needed. In climates where heating buildings take priority over cooling them, we’re finding a significant transition from traditional AC-only units to new-generation heat pumps. Heat pumps must be properly sized to ensure occupant comfort and keep the heat pump from “struggling” to control humidity when operated in AC mode. Choosing refrigerant solutions There is no question the world’s temperature is on the rise. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, since 1982, the rate of the Earth’s warming has risen approximately 0.36 F (0.20°C) per decade—more than three times the average rate of all previous decades measured. The 10 warmest years on record all occurred in the past decade. And 2023 was the warmest year on record for North America, South America, and Africa, as well as the second warmest for Europe. As climate change continues to warm up winters and heat up summers, refrigerants will play an increasingly important role in “cooling down” people and products and helping to reduce the impact that industry and society have on “heating up” the planet. Everyone can do their part by understanding that temperature matters, then choosing refrigerant solutions that have lower GWP, support other environmental needs, and offer the right combination of performance attributes for a given climate zone.

Advanced heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems have always been essential to healthcare. However, the need for clean, fresh air at the right temperature and humidity within clinical settings has never been made clearer during the COVID-19 pandemic. It illustrated the importance of effective HVACR systems in healthcare due to their ability to improve air quality, patient outcomes, and infection control measures.  The need for change  Many current HVACR systems are outdated. Their reliance on direct on-line motor connection and mechanical methods to regulate fans, pumps, and compressors leads to inefficient energy use, generating higher costs. However, switching from manual methods to variable speed drives (VSDs) to regulate motor speeds can save as much as 25% in HVACR energy use, reducing operational costs in the process, and improving air quality control. The adoption of advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs also improves power network reliability and efficiency.  variable speed drives (VSDs) There’s the added benefit that the facility can save on the capital costs of the equipment and space VSDs also play a pivotal role in expanding the design capabilities of HVACR. One key advantage is their ability to over-speed fans within the system to cover higher loads than the system was designed for. This flexibility allows them to operate in extreme conditions and still meet the needs of the facility, without installing significantly oversized systems to cover these rare peak loads. There’s the added benefit that the facility can save on the capital costs of the equipment and space where it is installed.  The challenge of harmonic distortion While newer healthcare facilities may already be equipped with HVACR systems controlled by VSDs, older facilities may require significant upgrades. Some VSDs can introduce unwanted electrical disturbances to the facility network, called harmonics, which affect the performance of electrical equipment and lead to higher energy losses. Harmonics increase line current, meaning that when fitting VSDs, power cables, and other components might need to be re-sized to be able to accommodate it. Filtering and control mechanisms Advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs are designed to mitigate the impact of harmonics on electrical systems To address this issue, advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs are designed to mitigate the impact of harmonics on electrical systems. Ultra-low harmonic VSDs incorporate sophisticated filtering and control mechanisms to reduce harmonic distortion, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of electrical infrastructure within healthcare facilities, including medical equipment used to treat patients. They also mitigate the need for a larger refit and higher maintenance costs, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards governing harmonics and electrical quality.  Understanding the crucial role of air quality  Maintaining high air quality standards within hospitals is essential to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and ensure the safety of both patients and medical staff. Poor air quality can lead to higher concentrations of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the air, significantly increasing the risk of HAIs. These infections can lead to prolonged hospital stays, compromising patient safety, and further increasing healthcare costs for patients and providers. This is exactly what the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted. Regulatory standards and guidelines Only advanced ventilation systems controlled by VSDs can fully deliver what’s required Given these significant risks associated with poor air quality, healthcare facilities are subject to stringent regulatory standards and guidelines governing indoor air quality. Compliance with these standards is essential, and only advanced ventilation systems controlled by VSDs can fully deliver what’s required.  Breathing easier In conclusion, advanced HVACR systems controlled by ultra-low harmonic VSDs are essential for healthcare facilities seeking to improve air quality and provide a healthier environment for patients and staff. They also enhance energy efficiency and optimize associated costs, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Adopting these advanced drives offers improved medical equipment reliability, as they take care of power quality and minimize electrical disturbances in the facility's power network. Ultimately that leads to better patient outcomes and hospital operational efficiency.

SNAP Rule 26 marks an important milestone in the transition from commercial refrigeration to new refrigerants. The rule lists refrigerant substitutes that provide a spectrum of technological solutions to meet required performance, global warming potential (GWP), safety, and environmental standards.  SNAP stands for Significant New Alternatives Policy, a program by the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) under the Clean Air Act. In general, the program aims to evaluate and regulate substitutes for ozone-depleting substances, considering their overall risks to both human health and the environment. Impact of SNAP Rule 26 Final SNAP Rule 26, Protection of Stratospheric Ozone, lists acceptable substitutes in commercial and industrial refrigeration. SNAP Rule 26 will be effective July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register “To date, the SNAP program has provided a very effective framework for evaluation and approval in support of innovation and the transition to new technology,” says Andrew Pansulla, Technical Service Engineer, The Chemours Company, a global chemistry company that provides a range of refrigerant products. We asked Pansulla to elaborate further on the impact of SNAP Rule 26 and what lies ahead. Q: How will the Rule’s finalization impact various commercial refrigeration sectors? Pansulla: The rule’s finalization will impact commercial refrigeration in several ways. Areas, where impact will likely be seen, include providing more acceptable refrigerant options, adherence to updated standards, new equipment design standards, and the exemption of propane from the venting prohibition for refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment. These impacts could trigger changes in operational, manufacturing, and environmental compliance strategies in the commercial refrigeration sectors. SNAP Rule 26 will enable the adoption of the listed substitutes, including Chemours Opteon™ refrigerants, with global warming potential (GWP) lower than existing refrigerants. This rule does not require any changes to existing equipment and will impact only new equipment that uses the specific substances referenced in the SNAP rule. Q: What is the outlook for additional requirements for safe handling and use of alternative refrigerants? What specific safety standards are expected or appropriate? Pansulla: As part of the comparative risk framework used by the EPA to assess new alternatives, the EPA considers and implements use conditions that will ensure the safe use of products. These use conditions rely upon existing safety standards (e.g., UL and ASHRAE) which are available at the time the rule is finalized. In the case of SNAP Rule 26, many of the use conditions require adherence to UL 60335-2-89 and ASHRAE-15-2022. These standards are reviewed and updated periodically to maintain relevance with the products subject to the standards. Q: What are any limitations of the use of A2L refrigerants under SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: There are two main categories of limitations under SNAP Rule 26. The first, as mentioned above, is the adherence to specific safety standards that apply to refrigerants that are designated as mildly flammable (A2L). The second is based on the GWP of the refrigerant. In the case of the A2L refrigerants subject to SNAP Rule 26, the EPA imposed conditions on the type of equipment and specific circumstances in which the substitute may be used. For example, the EPA is permitting the use of R-454A in supermarket systems, but only on the high side of a cascade system, or when the refrigerant charge capacity is less than 200 pounds. Q: Which new-generation A2L refrigerants are fit for which commercial refrigeration applications? Pansulla: Under SNAP Rule 26, the EPA deems R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E), R-454C, R-455A, R-457A, and R-516A as acceptable subject-to-use conditions for various commercial refrigeration applications. This selection is primarily driven by these refrigerants having GWPs under 150. However, certain applications necessitate refrigerants with higher GWPs due to unique performance characteristics. For example, R-454B and R-32 were listed for industrial process refrigeration with exiting fluid temperatures below minus 30 degree Celsius because these two specific refrigerants have lower boiling points than the other six less-than-150-GWP alternatives. However, it is critically important to consider the additional use conditions when designing equipment with refrigerants that have a GWP greater than 150. Q: So various equipment needs different refrigerants? Pansulla: The EPA purposefully lists several different refrigerants in each application to allow for equipment manufacturers to consider a variety of different factors that go into refrigerant selection, such as energy efficiency, capacity, normal boiling point, temperature glide, cost, safety, and use conditions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for the entire commercial refrigeration industry. Q: How can commercial refrigeration businesses achieve a smooth transition to A2Ls? Pansulla: Keys to a smooth transition to A2Ls include understanding what refrigerants the EPA has approved as acceptable substitutes under the SNAP program, the sector-based GWP limits imposed by the Technology Transitions Program under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, and which refrigerants provide the best combination of technical performance and environmental characteristics. Many resources are available to navigate the regulatory landscape and select the best low-GWP refrigerants to meet the needs of this industry. Working with companies like Chemours, who has nearly a century of refrigerant innovation and experience, is a great first step in the transition process. Q: What is the “staying power” of A2Ls — based on their chemistry, sustainability, and other attributes, combined with regulations such as SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: The identification, selection, and development of new refrigerants that deliver required performance while meeting increasingly stringent environmental standards is a challenging process. With the identification of certain hydrofluoroolefin-based (HFO) refrigerants as an alternative to meet these criteria came a new safety classification. These HFO-based refrigerants are classified as A2Ls. While slightly more flammable than existing hydrofluorocarbon-base (HFC) refrigerants, HFOs are much less flammable than hydrocarbons, which are classified as A3 (two categories higher on the ASHRAE flammability spectrum). Moreover, such refrigerants offer an excellent alternative to substances with higher toxicity, such as R-717. The listing of A2L refrigerants in SNAP Rule 26 clearly indicates that such refrigerants can be used safely in commercial refrigeration as well as many other applications, which are subject to the SNAP Program, when adhering to the applicable safety standards.

It takes a proliferation of data centers to serve the growing computing needs of the Internet, and all those servers churning away create plenty of heat. Might some of that heat be harnessed and used for residential or commercial heating? The emergence of district heating systems, which provide thermal energy to multiple buildings from a single source, demonstrates the approach has broad possibilities. Air-cooled chillers and air-handling units used to cool data centers are like the technologies that cool residences and businesses. They just operate on a larger scale and require a higher degree of resilience and redundancy to ensure data center servers operate without interruption. District heating system The law of physics dictates that the energy you put into a data server will come out as heat, and heat is a byproduct of data center cooling systems. Rather than exhaust that heat into the outside environment, how can it be captured and channeled into a district heating system to heat water and/or to provide warmth to homes and businesses in the same neighborhood as the data center? Law of physics dictates that the energy you put into a data server will come out as heat  Mitsubishi Electric designs engineered solutions that both cool data centers and generate heat output that can be captured for district heating applications. “We want to capture the heat and repurpose it for someone else to use,” says Simon Prichard, Product Strategy Manager for Engineered Solutions for Mitsubishi Electric. Reusing wasted heat from data centers can help to decarbonize heating. United Kingdom's Energy Act 2023 An additional heat pump can be used to increase the “low-grade heat” generated by a data center to the temperature needed for district heating. Alternatively, district heating systems might be upgraded to accommodate the lower-temperature heat from data centers. Additional heat pump can be used to increase the “low-grade heat” generated by a data center. The United Kingdom and other governments globally are promoting the creation of district heating networks. Legislation such as the United Kingdom's Energy Act 2023 identifies areas within England where certain new and existing buildings will be required to connect into district heating networks. Legislation is pushing developers toward district heating and away from the use of fossil fuels. District heating applications Water cooling is a developing technology for data centers, which mostly use air-cooling systems In November 2023, the UK government awarded £36 million to a district heating system in West London that will share data center waste heat with up to 10,000 new homes. Hot air from a data center can provide some of the energy needed for a district heating system, and water-cooling systems can provide even more. Water cooling is a developing technology for data centers, which mostly use air cooling systems. Cooperation is needed to realize the scenario of capturing the heat from data centers for district heating applications. Government legislation can drive requirements to embrace the approach, but the multiple involved parties, including data center operators and the architects and engineers creating nearby communities, must also cooperate. Greater ESG goals Energy must be reused in the geographic area immediately surrounding the data center for the scenario to be financially viable. In an industrial estate, for example, the excess heat could be used for nearby farming; the reuse is not restricted to domestic or residential applications. The various parties tend to be “siloed,” so a concerted effort of “joined-up thinking” is needed to bring all the parties to the table to enable such a system. Construction of new data centers is accelerating, and the centers are getting larger. Construction of new data centers is accelerating, and the centers are getting larger. Currently, 4 or 5% of total electricity output is used by data centers, and ways to reuse that energy are a growing priority for ethical companies in the data center market. Large companies that use data centers are drawn to the district heating scenario to achieve greater ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Moving forward, it behooves everyone to think of data centers as not just generating data but as energy centers generating sustainable energy. Mitsubishi Electric’s products MEWALL mixes high version with energy efficiency, space optimization, and cost-effectiveness “We live in a connected world, and we need data centers,” says Prichard. “The world won’t work without them, but many people don’t know what a data center is and how much we rely on them. Society doesn’t realize how embedded they are.” Among Mitsubishi Electric’s products for the data center market is the MEWALL air handling unit, a “wall” of fans with built-in controls, valves, and filters that are mounted alongside a suite of data servers. MEWALL combines high performance with energy efficiency, space optimization, and cost-effectiveness. Water circulates inside the fans, using cold water produced by a chiller. View of the MEWALL system Smaller data center needs can be addressed using technology such as Mitsubishi Electric’s indoor s-MEXT high-precision air conditioner connected to a Mr. Slim R32 Power Inverter outdoor unit. The indoor unit is customized to the client’s requirements for use in a data center.  At the Data Center World trade show in London in March, Mitsubishi Electric used virtual reality (VR) to provide attendees with a simulated view of the MEWALL system. Given the dimensions of 4 by 2.3 meters, transporting the system to the show presented prohibitive cost and logistical challenges.

Recently, nine states pledged to accelerate the transition to clean buildings in their states, including a goal of deploying heat pumps to make up 65% of residential heating, cooling, and water heating by 2030. California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Rhode Island signed a memorandum of understanding in February outlining their collective efforts to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies such as heat pumps in new and existing homes.  Benefits of heat pumps Fifteen percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the heating and cooling of buildings and homes, and accelerating the use of heat pumps advances the goal of a cleaner, healthier environment.   “The door is closing on reasons to shy away from heat pumps because the technology is here, and the incentives and support from government programs are on the rise,” says Katie Davis, VP of Engineering and Technology at Trane Residential. “There is no better time than now to make the change for a more sustainable future.”  portfolio of residential heat pumps The new portfolio yields an emissions reduction of over 35% (compared to 2019), and the new 15 SEER heat pump Beginning this month, Trane Residential launches its new portfolio of residential heat pumps that achieve new levels of emissions reduction. The new portfolio yields an emissions reduction of over 35% (compared to 2019), and the new 15 SEER heat pump will meet Energy Star requirements.   “We saw the change in refrigerant regulation as an opportunity to propel us forward in technology toward a better environment,” says Davis.   Heat pump technology Heat pump technology has been around since the mid-1800s, and it has evolved significantly since that time. Within the last 10 years, improvements have been made in efficiency, in both the heating and cooling cycles. The use of vapor injection technology in the heating cycle has greatly improved the capacity and efficiency of heating with heat pumps.   Comfort mode Comfort mode provides a level of comfort similar to that of fossil fuel-burning furnaces Trane heat pumps also can deliver very warm air at the register through Comfort mode, which provides a level of comfort similar to that of fossil fuel-burning furnaces, says Davis. Homeowners who prefer furnaces due to the temperature of the discharge air have similar capabilities with Trane heat pumps.  Sustainability and efficiency Trane Technologies seeks to challenge what’s possible for a sustainable world, says Davis. “Sustainability is the foundation of how we design our products for the future of HVAC,” she says. Improvements in the efficiency of Trane Heat Pumps have a direct correlation to reduced emissions, which translates to energy savings on a homeowner’s utility bill.   Trane Link systems Other factors that assist in driving the transition to the electrification of heating are utility rebates The Trane Link systems provide up to an additional 5% energy savings to the homeowner using smart technology that efficiently manages the home load environment. Other factors that assist in driving the transition to the electrification of heating are utility rebates and a program that assists homeowners in making the shift.  Of course, "indirect emissions" and the greening of the grid have an impact on emissions as the industry moves toward the use of heat pumps and away from fossil fuel-burning systems. emissions reduction by design Trane is achieving industry-pioneering emissions reduction by design, and as the grid becomes greener, it will accelerate the impact the Trane portfolio will have on the industry and the environment, says Davis.  “At Trane, we utilize a multi-variable approach to reducing emissions in our product portfolio,” says Davis. “While a greener grid can help to accelerate the reduction in emissions, our systems utilize smart technology, lower global warming potential refrigerants, and improved efficiency in heating design to achieve industry-pioneering emissions reduction for our systems.”  alternative energy sources When designing for sustainability, several levers can be pulled to yield the best results Heat pumps play a role in encouraging more efficient energy sources. HVAC accounts for over 40% of the energy usage in a home. There is an opportunity for the development of capabilities in alternative energy sources for heating and cooling as well as improved energy management for the home. When designing for sustainability, several levers can be pulled to yield the best results. One of those levers is related to digital controls and smart systems.  Trane Link Variable Speed Trane Link Variable Speed Systems provide over 700 speeds to provide a pinpoint match to a homeowner’s load demand in a home. The system provides temperature control within 0.5 degrees F, humidity control to the exact setpoint defined by the homeowner, and provides up to 5% energy savings on utility bills.   By utilizing the digital technology within the control system, the heat pump manages comfort as well as efficiency to provide the best for the homeowner and the environment. For dealers, Trane provides Dealer Diagnostics that give precise information on runtime and system performance, in real time, to ensure the most optimal operating parameters for the best system performance and efficiency.  heat pump heating capability Two obstacles are cost and the customer perception of heat pump heating capability Two obstacles remain in the transition journey. They are cost and the customer perception of heat pump heating capability. “As we accelerate this transition, the time is now for utilities and government programs to step up and assist homeowners in electrification of heating,” says Davis. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding is a step toward this assistance, but more is needed across the industry to ensure a rapid transition to cleaner equipment.   Consumer concerns In addition to cost, homeowners have not been properly educated on the advancement of heat pump technology over the last decade, and heating with heat pumps has improved significantly.  “The cost to convert from furnaces to heat pumps can be prohibitive, but with government incentives, like the IRA rebates, this becomes less of an issue,” says Davis. “Other concerns from consumers are energy bills and the concern that energy costs will rise with the use of heat pumps. While it is true that electric energy bills may rise, homeowners should see a reduced cost of use of other energy sources,” says Davis. “In the end, we move closer to parity.” 

To offset the cost of tenants’ monthly electric bills and provide prospective residents with high-quality HVAC upgrades that prioritize comfort and performance, Samuels Associates, owner of the Fenway Triangle luxury apartments, sought a new, building-wide heating solution that was not only cost-effective but also added a modern touch to the building’s extravagance. QMark® MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters with SmartSeries® Plus (SSP) digital BACnet thermostats from Goodyear HVAC Sales proved to be the ideal solution. Heat in a contemporary design “From their energy efficiency, quiet operation and low maintenance to the fact that they can be controlled individually for personalized comfort, electric heaters offer several benefits in apartment buildings,” explained Andrew Martin, Manager of Product Management with Marley Engineered Products® (MEP). “Delivering supplemental comfort heat in a contemporary design, these heaters are ideal for a variety of spaces including school hallways, church vestibules, transportation terminals, stairwells, entrances, lobbies, mechanical rooms and more.”  Installing Heaters while Maintaining esthetics Buildings boast modern frills and discreet and esthetically good HVAC plans that act quietly Steps away from the iconic Fenway Park, the Fenway Triangle is an 891,000-square-foot complex comprising more than 570 luxury apartment units, as well as an eclectic mix of national and local retailers, restaurants, shops and green spaces. Since opening in 2006, the building needed to address issues with its HVAC systems and controls, which were leading to high monthly electric bills. The culprit? More than 50 outdated competitor electric terminal heaters, which offered only on/off controls and needed to be operated manually. If the maintenance team forgot to shut off the heaters, "The Fenway" would incur the cost of each heater running at full capacity at a rate of about 27 cents per kilowatt-hour. Another challenge facing Fenway Triangle: The emergence of new luxury apartment complexes. These buildings boast modern amenities and discreet and esthetically pleasing HVAC systems that operate quietly. They pose significant competition for “The Fenway”, as tenants increasingly prioritize indoor air quality (IAQ) and HVAC performance when selecting their luxury residences. To remain competitive in the luxury apartment market, investing in HVAC upgrades to replace outdated equipment is imperative. QMark MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters  Heaters were installed in elevator banks, stairwells, worker lounges, hallways, and facility To combat the rising cost of heating each unit within the building, MEP’s local Sales Representative, Goodyear HVAC Sales, worked with HVAC distributor Equipment Direct Sales, Inc. (EDSI) to provide the client with energy-efficient QMark MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters from Marley Engineered Products. Designed to maintain occupant comfort and a comfortable environment, the heaters were installed in various elevator banks, stairwells, employee lounges, hallways and inside the building’s recently upgraded building management system (BMS) room.  “Equipped with SSP digital thermostats that provide connections to BACnet MS/TP BMS for easy control and monitoring, the MUH-Pro+ and CU900 units only run when directed by the internal schedule of the BMS,” said Matthew Goodrich, President of Goodyear HVAC Sales. “Use of the BMS saves time and reduces personnel costs by eliminating the need to travel to the heater site. And, if a BMS is not available, the maintenance team can simply use the built in seven-day programmable scheduling feature.”  New electric heating units Cost-Effective Heat for Unmatched Comfort and Lower Monthly Bills In tandem with EDSI, Goodrich and his team installed several brand-new electric heating units in The Fenway’s BMS room to provide cost-effective warmth without taking up floor space or creating a tripping hazard.  “Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics,” explained Goodrich. “In fabricating this solution for the client, our dedicated team and the coordination of skilled contractors transformed this building into a space that harmonizes comfort and elegance and exemplifies the blending of form and function.”  Full control of the entire heating system The thermostats include features that allow the building’s maintenance team to monitor each heater The success of the project resulted in an extremely satisfied customer. Already, the SSP thermostats have provided cost savings by turning on the heaters only when needed, resulting in less electricity usage throughout The Fenway. Additionally, the thermostats include features that allow the building’s maintenance team to monitor each heater individually from within the BMS room, granting them full control of the entire heating system and eliminating the daily trips previously needed to turn each heater on and off.  “We’re already seeing the savings associated with the upgraded controls,” said John Belmonte, Head of Trilogy Operations for the Fenway Triangle. “Being able to control over 40 heaters locally allows our team to focus on tenant needs without being bogged down by the time it takes to touch each individual unit. We’re eager to work further with the Goodyear team on other buildings in the neighborhood.” Innovative approach and exceptional achievements To acknowledge the innovative approach and exceptional achievements demonstrated by the Goodyear team in overcoming the challenges faced during this project, Marley Engineered Products awarded Goodrich the 2024 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 left a lasting legacy of designing creative solutions for specialized applications, was always up for a challenge and most happy when solving a unique heating or ventilation problem,” said Sean Pesce, Director of Sales for Marley Engineered Products. “Matthew and his team at Goodyear perfectly captured Jim’s talent for finding creative solutions to the most complex issues and left a lasting impression on the client.”

Mulberry’s of Beaconsfield is a prestigious salon spa set in the stunning Chiltern Hills. It is known for its high-end bespoke treatments and faced a significant HVAC challenge during a peak summer heatwave. The compressor on the multi-split air conditioning condenser supplying numerous treatment areas failed, risking the comfort and satisfaction of their discerning clients. SFE Services, a Buckinghamshire-based HVAC service provider, stepped in to offer an efficient and time-critical repair. Installation and compressor challenges Mulberry's internal fit-out, had included the installation of the air conditioning system before SFE Services' involvement. When the compressor failure occurred, it was crucial to address it promptly to maintain the business’s operational standards. SFE Services responded the same day, showcasing its commitment to customer service. The team provided knowledgeable advice. They suggested repairing the existing unit instead of opting for a new and costly re-installation. While new installations are sometimes necessary, SFE Services demonstrated that repairs can be a more sustainable and economical choice when feasible. seamless and efficient services  SFE Services sourced the necessary equipment within the same week and conducted the repairs SFE Services sourced the necessary equipment within the same week and conducted the repairs out of regular business hours to avoid any disruption. Mulberry’s operates from 9 am to 8 pm so the work needed to be done without affecting trading hours. The SFE Services team’s dedication was evident as they arrived on site at 6:00 am and even provided key management to open the premises early in the morning, ensuring the work was completed seamlessly and efficiently. air conditioning and air quality In a spa setting, air conditioning and air quality are vital for ambiance, client comfort, and product efficacy. Mulberry needed a working system to create a tailored atmosphere for various treatments. For instance, when clients relax body temperature decreases so it is often preferred to have a warm environment during massages. For waxing, cooler air is essential to obtain the best treatment results. ventilation Also, proper ventilation is necessary to remove unpleasant fumes in the air while using certain products such as acetone. The ability to control the air quality and temperature not only enhances the client's experience but also serves as a unique selling point for the business. The presence of air conditioning & ventilation becomes especially noticeable when it is absent, underlining its importance. benefits of air conditioning system Clients can enjoy a comfortable setting for treatments like body massages, which might otherwise be unappealing Mulberry highlighted the benefits of having a reliable air conditioning system. It can offer a perfect environment tailored to each client's needs, even during a summer heatwave. This capability sets them apart from competitors, as clients can enjoy a comfortable setting for treatments like body massages, which might otherwise be unappealing in hot weather. customer-focused HVAC solutions SFE Services intervention at Mulberry’s of Beaconsfield exemplifies their commitment to providing timely, knowledgeable, and customer-focused HVAC solutions. SFE Services' ability to work around the salon’s long hours, coupled with their expertise in offering economical options, highlights their position as a trusted service provider in the HVAC industry.

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. “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. He 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 111 Murray Street is a 792-foot-tall residential skyscraper with 156 luxury condominiums 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. 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. “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, adding “Therefore, we needed a custom design that enabled us to mount the heaters properly while also keeping them out of sight.” 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 convectors – 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. Berko ASL3 convector heaters The result was an ‘invisible solution’ in which none of the controls or heaters could be seen in the residential units 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. “Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics,” explained Christopher 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.” Berko ASL3 convector heaters 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. 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. Solving unique heating or ventilation problems “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. He adds, “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.”

When the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority opens its upgraded desalination plant on Stock Island, Danfoss high-pressure pumps and energy recovery devices will radically improve the energy efficiency of a SWRO plant that plays a central role in the Florida Keys water supply strategy.   The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) supplies 20 million gallons of potable water per day (75.7k m3/d) to its nearly 80,000 customers in the Florida Keys. While most of the water is normally sourced in aquifers, FKAA also operates two seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) plants for emergency purposes and as a supplemental supply in periods of high demand. FKAA initiated the SWRO plant upgrade FKAA initiated the upgrade of one of these plants, the Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant located on Stock Island, to increase its capacity, make it more resilient to hurricanes and rising flood levels, and improve its energy efficiency. Since opening in 1980, not only have guidelines for storm protection of such critical infrastructure changed significantly, so has the potential to save on the energy required by desalination. Designed to withstand future floods and hurricanes With sustained winds above 157 mph, such storms can cause severe damage to everything in their path To improve resiliency to extreme weather events in the low-lying Florida Keys, the entire site and facility have now been upgraded to withstand Category 5 hurricanes, the most dangerous level of tropical storms. With sustained winds above 157 mph (252 kph), such storms can cause severe damage to everything in their path. Accordingly, the refurbished facility lifts all electrical and mechanical equipment above the base flood elevation and the expected sea-level rise anticipated by 2060, effectively placing the plant’s desalination operations on stilts to mitigate the risk of severe flooding. improve the plant’s energy efficiency Another key goal of the upgrade was to improve the plant’s energy efficiency at the same time as doubling its production capacity from 2 MGD (7,500 m3/d) to 4 MGD (15,000 m3/d). To bring the refurbished plant up to date and reduce its financial and environmental costs, Carollo, a major U.S. engineering firm specializing in water and wastewater facilities, specified the latest axial-piston high-pressure pumps to replace legacy centrifugal pumps and swapped out old turbines for the newest active isobaric energy recovery technology. Upgraded plant to consist of four RO trains This innovative high-pressure setup dramatically reduces the plant’s energy needs This innovative high-pressure setup dramatically reduces the plant’s energy needs. In the new Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant being built by Biwater, a world pioneer in water treatment, the RO process-specific energy consumption will be slashed from 25.6 kW/kgal (6.77 kWh/m3) to 8.6 kW/kgal (2.27 kWh/m3). With this improvement, the new plant will be among the most energy-efficient in its class, with significantly reduced electricity bills and greenhouse gas emissions. The upgraded plant will consist of four RO trains, each of which includes two Danfoss APP 86 high-pressure pumps and three Danfoss iSave 70 ERDs. Improvement in energy efficiency In addition to the dramatic improvement in energy efficiency, configuring each train with parallel high-pressure pumps provides additional resilience and other benefits: the smaller pumps are easier to lift and work on, and it is now affordable to keep a spare pump in stock. The new improved plant will come online in Q4 2024. The new Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant is located just north of the existing plant. Construction began in Q3 2021 and will be completed by Q2 2024. The plant is expected to be fully operational by Q4 2024.

Shadow Industrial (SI), one of the UK’s pioneering infrared heating specialists, has been chosen to refit the heating systems at the London Boroughs of Camden and Islington’s jointly-owned Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Center. The decision to use SI’s cutting-edge heaters was made on the recommendation of M&E contractor, Vitalenergi London, which was appointed to update the site’s HVAC. Operational Emissions By 2030 Replacing the building’s 300 m2 existing AmbiRad fan heater system, at just over £25,000, the project will see Shadow Industrial fit 35 of its zero-emission, high-performance heaters across the entire facility. This comes in at a far lower cost, often a 50-75% saving, and increased efficiency than many other alternative electric heating systems. The project will see Shadow Industrial fit 35 of its zero-emission, high-performance heaters Predicted to reduce energy consumption by 80%, this represents a landmark moment for shortwave infrared in industrial settings. Not only that, the replacement of existing heating systems with a low-cost, more sustainable alternative perfectly aligns with both Camden and Islington Council’s Climate Action Plans which seek to achieve Net Zero operational emissions by 2030. Shadow Industrial’s Technology As Graham Hughes from Islington Council says, “When Vitalenergi first introduced us to Shadow Industrial’s technology we were very impressed, particularly by its capabilities and relatively low operational costs." "It’s going to make a massive contribution to our efforts, alongside Camden Council to reduce emissions. We’ll also be able to approach our heating strategy in a far more diverse way, keeping costs down and passing those savings onto taxpayers.” The Heat Is On The technology works by emitting focused radiant heat through precisely-configured reflectors Not only will Shadow Industrial’s heating systems shrink the center’s carbon footprint, but they will also improve energy efficiency. This is predominantly due to the way shortwave infrared works, in contrast to traditional electric and gas-powered central heating. The technology works by emitting focused radiant heat through precisely-configured reflectors. Essentially it heats the person, not the air around them, significantly reducing the amount of heat lost to the atmosphere. This comes into its own in large-span, high-ceilinged structures that experience heavy traffic constantly entering in and out, pioneering to a consistent draft. Wall-mounted or ceiling-hung, directed downwards at individuals, the energy creates a comfortable and instant warmth reminiscent of the gentle heat of the sun. In Control Plug-and-play these light heaters are easy to install and operate, compared to formal systems Plug-and-play these lightweight heaters are easy to install and operate, compared to traditional systems. It’s helping to get a practical and scalable heating network up and running within an industrial facility quickly, with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations. Even better, unlike most gas and electric systems, these heaters can be turned on and off on demand as and when personnel are working in specific areas across the site. The instantaneousness of the heat emitted means it can deliver maximum effectiveness at the click of a switch, and extinguish at the same rate. This means no part of the build is heated unnecessarily. Shadow Industrial’s Heaters As Luke Chappell, Vitalenergi’s lead design engineer (mechanical) on the project says, “Shortwave infrared’s set to be a serious market disruptor in the industrial heating market. It’s a game-changer for local authority and public sector projects, which are both subject to strict sustainability briefs and budgetary constraints." "We cannot wait to see the positive impact Shadow Industrial’s heaters will have on those working within, and managing, the Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Center. The Shadow Industrial team has been amazing throughout the process and we looking forward to partnering again on future projects.” Installation of Shadow Industrial’s new system was completed at the start of Q2 2024.

Secure I.T. Environments Ltd (SITE), one of the UK’s design and build companies for modular, containerized, and micro data centers, has announced the completion of data center cooling upgrades at Royal Devon University Healthcare, NHS Foundation Trust, that will dramatically reduce energy costs, achieving ROI in under three years. free cooling solution The works, which are the latest in a series of projects SITE has conducted for the trust in recent years, replace existing cooling infrastructure with three new indoor units that improve efficiency. The free cooling solution, allows the data center to operate in a higher temperature-free cooling configuration for a greater proportion of the year, taking advantage of ambient temperatures and lowering running costs.  FreeCool circuit  The new installation is projected to enable the data center to achieve a PUE of 1.14 Each unit combines direct expansion air cooling and an energy-efficient FreeCool circuit, as well as including built-in compressors for the direct expansion circuit. External Hybrid Heat Rejection (HHR) units were also fitted on-site. The new installation is projected to enable the data center to achieve a PUE of 1.14 and a Cooling PUE of 1.10. ASHRAE TC9.9 2016 thermal guidelines Chris Wellfair, Projects Director at Secure I.T. Environments, said, “The primary source of operating expenditure (OPEX) for data centers is electricity. While maintaining the climate conditions within a data center is critical, the ASHRAE TC9.9 2016 thermal guidelines now give confidence to operators that they can control the indoor temperature at higher levels." He adds, "This combined with the efficiencies gained with new equipment will dramatically lower energy costs at RDEF and achieve a return on investment in under three years.” phase wise installation The installation was conducted over three phases, ensuring the data center could remain live supporting hospital and patient services.  Secure I.T. Environments was responsible for the decommissioning of existing units, and installation of new equipment, including electrical works, configuration, and testing. 

The HVAC market is a rapidly changing environment on a variety of fronts, from the introduction of new refrigerants to the increasing use of artificial intelligence to the embrace of interconnected systems in the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How will the HVAC market change in the next five years?

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?

A long list of regulatory and environmental trends is determining the future of the HVAC industry. Some trends will have an immediate impact, while others will come in force years from now, although the complexity of the industry requires that manufacturers and installers start planning now. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What regulatory or environmental trend will have the greatest impact on the HVAC market?