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Marcone, North America's renowned distributor for appliance, HVAC, plumbing, commercial kitchen, and pool and spa parts, announced that veteran customers and employees alike were invited into the U.S. branches of its HVAC division in honor of their service. Servicemen and servicewomen were provided with treats and a show of gratitude in honor of Veteran's Day, with employees given special recognition internally and on social media. Veteran employees of Marcone Appliance Parts also were recognized with gifts. Veteran's Day "We enjoy the freedom to conduct business and pursue success because of the sacrifice that many made on behalf of our nation," said Randall Hudspeth, President of Marcone HVAC. He adds, "We appreciate their contributions every day, but want to make a special point on Veteran's Day to set time aside to offer thanks for a job extraordinarily well done."

Baltimore Aircoil Company (BAC) hosted Maryland government officials for a visit at its global headquarters in Jessup, MD to explore how cutting-edge cooling technologies are driving sustainable growth for the economy and society. For over 85 years, BAC has led the way in advancing cooling technologies and continues to invest in its operations in Maryland, to accelerate innovation for cooling products that minimize energy and water usage.   vision, mission, and values During the visit, BAC showcased its vision, mission, and values, as well as its storied history of becoming a pioneer in reinventing cooling to sustain the world. Attendees engaged in discussions about BAC's impact on local communities, and its environmental initiatives across all regions where the company operates. BAC representatives also shared insights into Maryland's data center market and outlined the company's growth strategy in this rapidly expanding sector. immersion cooling technology BAC’s diverse portfolio of cooling products, emphasizes solutions that address site-specific requirements Officials observed BAC’s newest patented immersion cooling technology, demonstrating the company's unique approach to meeting data center cooling needs. This event also showcased BAC’s diverse portfolio of cooling products, emphasizing solutions that address site-specific water and energy requirements. A highlight of the event was a tour of BAC’s world-class R&D facility, where government representatives experienced firsthand the company’s commitment to developing next-generation cooling solutions. sustainable cooling solutions "We were honored to welcome Maryland officials to discuss the vital role of sustainable cooling solutions across industries, including the fast-growing data center market," said Don Fetzer, President of BAC. He adds, "As data centers increasingly power our digital world, BAC’s innovative systems ensure they can operate with maximum energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Our commitment to sustainability is not just about meeting today's demands but also fostering responsible growth for future generations to come." environmental stewardship and innovation Founded in 1938, BAC has grown from a small garage operation into a global pioneer in cooling solutions employing over 3,000 people worldwide. As the company continues to pioneer in sustainable cooling technology, it remains committed to its core values of innovation, environmental stewardship, and customer confidence. With ongoing research, strategic partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, BAC is poised to shape the future of cooling for data centers and other critical industries.

Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, and Autodesk, Inc., a global pioneer in building information modeling (BIM) technology for the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC), and operations industry, announced a strategic collaboration aimed at optimizing commercial building design for sustainability. AI-assisted design exploration This innovative cross-industry collaboration seeks to simplify the user experience and enable AI-assisted design exploration by integrating Trane’s TRACE® software and Autodesk Revit for engineers. TRACE leads the industry in enabling accurate sizing of complex Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems faster and easier at any level of building realism and provides energy and economic analysis pioneering to more sustainable building outcomes. sustainable building design "Our collaboration with Autodesk represents a significant step forward in our mission to drive the reduction of building emissions through optimization of the thermal management systems as part of the building design process," said Oakley Roberts, Vice President of Innovation and Product Management for Trane Technologies. Oakley Roberts adds, "By integrating our pioneering Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP)/HVAC engineering analysis solutions with Autodesk's BIM technology, we are poised to deliver unique value to our customers and accelerate the industry's move toward sustainable building design." MEP design process This will help remove manual steps, expedite the design process, and promote greater accuracy Key workflow innovations will focus on enhancing MEP design process efficiency for Trane customers, facilitating decision-making between architects and engineers, and laying the foundations for AI-assisted design. This will help remove manual steps, expedite the design process, and promote greater accuracy. reliable performance "Our strategic work with Trane Technologies underscores our commitment to addressing the critical workflow gaps faced by engineers, while leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance the extensibility of Autodesk’s platforms," said Nicolas Mangon, VP, of AEC Industry Strategy at Autodesk. He adds, "By integrating Trane’s trusted capabilities into Revit, we provide engineers with tools that deliver reliable performance, while empowering them to tackle today’s greatest industry challenges."  high-BIM adoption regions Nicolas Mangon continues, "Together, we’re bridging the digital and physical, and unlocking data to create more efficient, sustainable buildings." AI design exploration, connected workflow, and integration innovations developed through the collaboration are planned to initially be available in high-BIM adoption regions, such as the United States of America (USA) and Canada.

American Plant Maintenance (APM Steam), a major provider of steam systems maintenance services, highlights its steam trap survey services, which can be used to create a full inventory of steam traps in a facility’s steam system, identify failing traps, and uncover steam trap station issues that negatively impact the delivery of thermal energy through the steam system and the proper removal of condensate. As cold weather approaches, APM Steam urges facilities to prepare their steam systems for increased demands with these surveys, which are crucial for maintaining energy efficiency, operational integrity, and safety in steam distribution systems, especially during the colder months. steam trap surveys APM Steam experts conduct steam trap surveys to test and document operational status using ultrasound and temperature differentials. Survey data provides a complete trap inventory and extensive system information in a detailed report outlining findings and recommendations, a synopsis of results, and a return-on-investment calculation that compares replacement costs with losses associated with failed traps.  applications and recommendations By identifying areas for improvement, APM Steam's surveys can lead to significant energy savings The report also includes trap application problems and specific recommendations for trap and trap station improvements. With colder weather imminent, improving the steam system's efficiency becomes paramount. By identifying areas for improvement, APM Steam's surveys can lead to significant energy savings. features of working trap station Throughout the survey, APM Steam field technicians evaluate elements surrounding the steam trap, including isolation valves, inlet strainers, strainer blowdown valves, outlet check valves, trap station bypasses, test valves, and sight glass flow indicators. The survey also evaluates all features of a properly working trap station that allows technicians to work on it safely without being exposed to live steam present in the system. These issues could prevent technicians from repairing without requiring a disruptive facility shutdown.  survey inclusions APM Steam’s steam trap surveys tag each trap with a sequentially numbered stainless-steel tag and a wire hanger, enabling the user to find any specific trap in their system quickly. Included in each survey is documentation of trap location, application, steam pressure, manufacturer, model, and technology. Pipe size and trap size, connection type, inlet, and outlet temperature, and comments about existing installation are also documented. This detailed information helps set the stage for repairs by highlighting any access issues, confined space requirements, and need for a lift, as well as listing any other failed components or potential repair issues. Savings and incentives eligibility It is important to schedule surveys before the holiday season to ensure availability As winter approaches, facilities should act promptly to take advantage of meaningful savings and incentives eligibility. It is important to schedule surveys before the holiday season to ensure availability and avoid potential staffing constraints. Additionally, many customers have the opportunity to negotiate incentives at year-end, but time is often limited. Acting now allows ample time to negotiate and execute these incentives. return on investment calculation APM Steam’s steam trap survey also includes a detailed return on investment calculation, which includes the cost of the survey, replacement steam traps for those traps found to be deficient, and estimated labor to install the replacement traps. These costs are then compared to the losses associated with the traps found to have failed to close, leaked, or failed to open.  trap and trap station improvements Trap application problems and specific recommendations for trap and trap station improvements are also included. Facility managers can review the payback period to determine whether a project is worth pursuing. Many facilities find that repair projects pay for themselves in less than a year.

Trane Technologies (TT), a global climate innovator, will underscore the critical need for decarbonizing the built environment and transport sectors, advocating and advancing climate policies, and increasing the adoption of electrified heating and cooling and other low-carbon, energy-efficient solutions during COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, November 11 – 22, 2024. As a member of the World Economic Forum’s Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, Trane Technologies joined more than 100 CEOs and Senior Executives in signing an open letter to world leaders ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference 2024 (COP29). The letter emphasizes the need for governments and business to double down on transformative policies and collaboration for the transition to net-zero emissions by 2050. Accelerating decarbonization is an environmental imperative “Accelerating decarbonization is an environmental imperative that we must continue driving with innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency,” said Scott Tew, Vice President (VP) of Sustainability, Trane Technologies. Scott Tew adds, “The faster we transition to a low-carbon economy, the more we safeguard our planet to ensure a sustainable future for all.” Trane Technologies leaders will join several critical climate discussions throughout COP29, including (*note: all times local): Net-Zero – Turning Commitments into Reality: Nov. 15, 1:00 pm AZT Revolutionizing Heating and Cooling for Building Decarbonization: Nov. 16, 3:00 pm AZT, livestream available Broadening the Benefits of Clean Energy – Community Engagement and Next Generation Workforce Development: Nov. 18, 10:00 am AZT Catalysts for Change – Transforming Food Supply Chains for Reduced Waste and Sustainable Production: Nov. 17, 11:15 am AZT, livestream available upon registering Circularity and Decarbonization of the Built Environment – Pathways to Net-Zero: Nov. 19, 2:00 pm AZT, livestream available Collective action on sustainable cooling Collective action on sustainable cooling can reduce nearly 80 billion tons of carbon by 2050 With cities around the world warming at twice the global average, collective action on sustainable cooling can reduce nearly 80 billion tons of carbon by 2050 – improving the lives of hundreds of millions and enabling significant financial savings. In alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Affordable Clean Energy (SDG7) and Climate Action (SDG13), Trane Technologies continues to demonstrate its industry-renowned impact, calling for increased renewable energy supplies, standardized and transparent emissions reporting, an expedited transition to low global warming potential refrigerants and continued advocacy for policies that support the adoption of new and existing solutions at scale. Trane Technologies’ commitment to reduce embodied carbon Trane Technologies recently announced its industry-first commitment to reduce embodied carbon by 40% by 2030, furthering its leadership in sourcing more sustainable solutions. The company was also recently recognized by InfluenceMap as a 2024 Corporate Climate Policy Engagement Leader in the North America region for its exceptional performance in building electrification and efficiency as well as its advocacy for the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – earning one of the highest Engagement Intensity scores of all US-based entities. Advancing 2030 Sustainability Commitments Through bold, industry-renowned action, Trane Technologies is advancing its 2030 Sustainability Commitments, including the Gigaton Challenge – a pledge to reduce customer greenhouse gas emissions by 1 billion metric tons (or, one gigaton) – and its pledge to be net-zero by 2050. The company is first in its industry with near and long-term emissions reduction targets externally validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).

The need for clean, renewable energy sources requires exploring carbon-neutral fuels and their combustion behaviors. This is typically done using single-cylinder (SC) engines. The advantages of this process are to make quick hardware changes such as replacing the head or piston, or to change the fuel composition, which provide fuel cost savings compared to a multi-cylinder engine. Combustion control strategies, various air-fuel ratios, and the impact on emissions are studied using the simulation platform, GT-SUITE, and its real-time engine plant model solution, GT-POWER-xRT.   turbocharger interaction Control strategies applied to the SC cannot be applied one-to-one for the MC engine Based on this research, multi-cylinder (MC) engines are designed, simulated and manufactured. The main problems that can result from this methodology are the differences in behavior between a single-and multi-cylinder engine due to the cylinder-to-cylinder and turbocharger interaction. These interactions are not represented in the SC engine. Therefore, control strategies applied to the SC cannot be applied one-to-one for the MC engine. MC simulation results To mitigate this problem, engine simulations of a MC engine using combustion data from a SC engine are carried out to test and develop control strategies in the time before the multi-cylinder engine is built and available on a test bench. The other drawback is the time between taking SC measurements and applying it to the MC model, which can be weeks or even months.  It is not uncommon to find issues or at least determine some data are questionable after analyzing MC simulation results. If possible, SC measurements are taken again, or the project is continued based on assumptions that might or might not be good. Using Simulation to Model Varied Engine Configurations   A solution to problems is running the MC model in parallel and in real time when measuring SC data A solution to both problems is running the MC model in parallel and in real time when measuring SC data. The real SC engine provides the combustion data, which then can be applied to all cylinders in the MC model. The differences in gas exchange for each cylinder, such as varying trapped gas and residual fractions, are captured, and the same is true for the interaction with the turbo. Fuel composition and air-fuel ratio The MC provides engine speed, crank-angle resolved intake/exhaust pressures, and average intake temperature. The SC needs to be equipped with fast-acting valves (e.g., 10 kHz) on the intake and exhaust side to impose the conditions that come from the MC.  Similarly, changes in fuel composition and air-fuel ratio (AFR) can easily be studied, and control strategies for the MC can be developed.  Why are Carbon Neutral Fuels Different?  Combining measurements and simulation for combustion/control developments is especially interesting for hydrogen/natural gas or methane blends. Combustion characteristics like the laminar flame speed strongly depend on the actual concentration, especially for hydrogen. Hydrogen’s ability to burn at very lean conditions, combined with the fact that nitrogen oxide (NOx) formation reaches its peak at relative air-fuel ratios (‘lambda’) of ~2.0, make it useful to run at quite lean conditions. charging system requirements The charging system must be able to deliver high boost pressure levels with low exhaust energy Current trends in engine development are finding that operation at lambda 3 is not uncommon and some research indicates that this could even go higher. This requires a different approach determining the charging system requirements compared to conventional fuels like gasoline, diesel, or natural gas. The charging system must be able to deliver high boost pressure levels with low exhaust energy due to low combustion temperatures caused by excess air.  Power generation applications Therefore, optimized turbos, electric turbo (eTurbos) and/or electric compressors (eCompressors) are considered, especially for on-highway applications.    For power generation applications, the time-to-torque is essential. Coupling SC and MC enables control strategy development accounting for transient effects like turbo lag or fueling for non-direct injection (DI) applications.  HiL Systems to Run the Real-Time Model  Depending on the test cell infrastructure, the MC model can be executed on the test bench machine Depending on the test cell infrastructure, the MC model can be executed on the test bench machine. There is no need for a HiL system. The MC model can be linked directly to ETAS INCA, Vector CANape or any system simulation tool that supports FMUs, like Synopsis Silver. If combustion data are not already available from the SC test cell software, three pressure analyses (TPA) in GT-SUITE can be integrated into the process.  MC model cylinders A TPA model typically consists of a single cylinder representing the test cell hardware. Dynamic intake, exhaust, and cylinder pressures are used as model inputs. For this application, intake and exhaust pressures plus intake temperatures are extracted from the MC model. The output of the TPA model is a burn rate that describes how fuel and air burns. This combustion profile can be directly imposed in the MC model cylinders.  Combustion and Controls Simulation Capabilities  If they are interested in applying this technique to the development process or have questions on the process, please contact them for specific comments or questions. Learn more about GT-SUITE and the propulsion systems applications. 

Data centers worldwide are under intense pressure. High-powered computing is a global necessity that seemingly gets more demanding by the day. There’s also the need to prioritize sustainability improvements ranging from resource conservation to decarbonization. And data centers must consider their bottom line and remain competitive. Anticipating the challenges data centers will continue to face, scientists and engineers have innovated two-phase (2-PIC) immersion cooling. With the capacity to meet the elevated cooling requirements driven by high-powered computing, this next-generation solution delivers on environmental priorities by significantly lowering data center energy consumption, slashing, if not eliminating, water use, while supporting decarbonization, circularity missions, and more. Emergence of 2-PIC Traditional approaches are fast approaching capacity for meeting current and future cooling needs The emergence of 2-PIC comes at a critical time, because the traditional cooling methods that have kept data centers up and running so far—namely air cooling and water cooling—are doing so at the detriment of the planet.  Additionally, these traditional approaches are quickly approaching capacity for meeting current and future cooling needs. Air- and water-cooling methods are used in approximately 95% of the estimated 8,000 data centers that exist today. The criticality of high-powered computing Once seen as a future need, high-powered computing, and faster-than-ever processing are now established as critical to the operation of businesses, governments, organizations, and other entities that support the way communities function, survive, and thrive. Whether it’s health and wellness, financial institutions, economic growth, safety and protection, entertainment, education, or any other service supporting our way of life, successfully providing that service fully depends on the ability of data centers to quickly and reliably obtain, store, and process data.  Influence of AI AI has a profound influence and, generates far more power than traditional internet uses Moreover, when we say “data centers,” we’re not just speaking of big players like Microsoft, Google, Meta, and Amazon. Equally dependent on high-performance, high-speed computing are enterprise data center operators, such as our governments and military, financial institutions, healthcare systems, educational institutions, and more.  We also must acknowledge the profound influence of artificial intelligence (AI), which generates far more power than traditional internet uses. Its effects are far-reaching, enhancing patient care, supporting risk management and fraud detection in finance, boosting crop yields within agriculture, and more. The environmental costs of data centers According to the latest estimates by the International Energy Agency, data centers worldwide produce 1% of energy-related carbon emissions and in 2022 used approximately 460 TWh of electricity per year—equating to 2% of global electricity demand. McKinsey and Company estimates 40% of this electricity is used for data center cooling. Data centers’ impact on the environment also includes their significant water consumption, averaging 300,000 gallons per day, and a physical footprint that averages 100,000 square feet but in the case of some hyperscale data centers can range between 1.3 to 2 million square feet. In terms of growth, a U.S. market report from Newmark tells us that in the U.S. alone, the U.S. data center footprint will absorb 35 gigawatts by 2030, which is more than twice the data center power consumption of 2022. The emergence of liquid cooling: the elevated interest in 2-PIC From reducing energy and water consumption to shrinking physical footprints, 2-PIC offers the planet a better data center solution. In less than two years, traditional cooling systems won’t be able to support the exponential growth in the world’s data processing and storage applications. Based on publicly available product roadmaps from major chip manufacturers, by 2026, air-cooled systems will no longer be able to meet the cooling needs of most next-generation, high-performance computing chips. Capable of removing heat more effectively than air cooling, liquid cooling uses a liquid such as water or a dielectric fluid to cool the heat-generating components of servers. The liquid can cool these components directly, or it can be done indirectly through a heat exchanger. With two-phase immersion cooling the entire server rack is submerged in a tank filled with a dielectric fluid. Single-phase and two-phase liquid cooling Single-phase liquid cooling uses a pump to circulate the liquid through a closed-loop system Single-phase liquid cooling uses a pump to circulate the liquid through a closed-loop system. Two-phase liquid cooling uses a phase-change material, such as a refrigerant, which evaporates and condenses as it absorbs and releases heat. With 2-PIC, which is a form of two-phase liquid cooling, the entire server rack is submerged in a tank filled with dielectric fluid. The fluid boils as it’s heated by the components of the servers, creating bubbles that rise to the surface and condense in a heat exchanger. Gravity then returns the condensed fluid to the tank, creating a natural circulation loop that does not require pumps or fans. Advantages of 2-PIC 2-PIC is commanding attention as the solution for meeting the cooling demands of the high-powered computing components of today and tomorrow. Moreover, the technology of 2-PIC systems, combined with the right dielectric fluid, delivers advantages to “take the heat off” data centers. Here’s a breakdown of additional 2-PIC benefits: Up to 90% reduction in energy consumption: Based on modeling completed by the industry, 2-PIC is expected to reduce up to 90% of data center cooling energy consumption and 40% of overall data center energy consumption*. (*Compared to traditional air-cooling technologies) Enhanced computing performance and data center reliability: 2-PIC allows servers to operate at higher temperatures and power densities, while reducing the risk of overheating. Significant reduction in water consumption: Depending on the data center location and cooling design methodology, water consumption could even be eliminated completely. 60% reduction in the physical footprint: 2-PIC reduces the space required for cooling equipment, freeing up more floor area for servers and increasing the rack density of the data center. Lower GWP and circularity: Chemours Opteon™ 2P50 is a developmental dielectric heat-transfer fluid, currently pre-commercial, pending regulatory approval. It offers an extremely low global warming potential (GWP) of 10 and was specifically created to optimize the performance of the electronic components in a 2-PIC system. This 2-PIC fluid also enables the reprocessing/reuse of existing fluid to maximize circularity.  The bottom line: In addition to other compelling data, a recent study commissioned by Chemours and LiquidStack through Syska Hennessy, revealed that, compared with other state-of-the-art liquid cooling methods, 2-PIC can deliver up to a 40% lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and significantly reduce operational expenditures (OPEX), with savings ranging from 54% to 88.6%. Benefits of new data center cooling technologies compared to single-phase direct-to-chip, and single-phase immersion methods. 2-PIC, the future-ready solution As the world’s reliance on AI and other high-powered computing capabilities escalates, data center cooling solutions must grow with demand while significantly reducing their impact on the environment. In global energy savings alone, 2-PIC could generate an estimated savings of 340 TWh by 2055—the equivalent of powering more than 517 million laptops 24/7. And even with increasing IT loads, 2-PIC maintains its performance, ensuring long-term cost-effectiveness and adaptability to meet future demands. With society at a crossroads between the criticality of high-powered computing and a planet in crisis, the industry is turning its attention to 2-PIC as the solution for today and tomorrow.

The HVAC market is forecasted to grow at a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%, with a prediction to reach $370 billion by 2030. But in reality, the HVAC and plumbing industry is changing rapidly, with operators facing new challenges like never before. Whether it’s rising costs, the uncertain economy, increasing competition, or the workforce shortage, there’s no doubt the HVAC and plumbing market is evolving. So how do you adapt? That’s the key question. My take is that we can’t predict the future, but we can adjust based on the facts on the field. That’s why now is the time for industry operators to focus on strategies that elevate growth, relationships, and longevity. Here are three ways to tackle today’s market. 1. Diversify Service Offerings With the rising costs of customer acquisition and market competitiveness, it is increasingly challenging to build a successful, resilient trade business by just offering one service — especially if it’s a seasonal specialty. While one-service shops were the norm historically, things have changed in the market. The contractor’s relationship with the customer has never been more valuable, and offering multiple trades allows operators to keep relationships within the four walls of the company – without referring valuable leads (or the potential to lose a customer entirely) to the competition. While one-service shops were the norm historically, things have changed in the market By adding more services to your HVAC and plumbing line-up, you become the one-stop, go-to source for essential home services in your market. For the long-term sustainability of the business, it is crucial to ultimately offer the essential three services: electrical, plumbing/sewer, and HVAC. Additionally, when you provide a variety of services your business will experience less seasonal or cyclical highs & lows because it’s well-rounded, diverse, and, ultimately, healthy. 2. Build Scale through Investment It’s a fact: The home services market is highly fragmented, with over 100,000 contracting businesses active in the United States. It also continues to churn out profits — making it a quality investment for home services investors and private equity sponsors. The fragmented market dynamic is an ideal opportunity for consolidation – and there is more investment capital flowing into the market than ever before. Owners with ambitions to grow can be aggressive with tuck-in acquisitions to offer differentiated services Nationally, scaled Platforms backed by investors or large franchisors service ~20% of the market in a metro area. The benefits of scale are significant: substantial purchasing power (especially on equipment), robust digital/traditional marketing capabilities, programmatic recruiting/training functions, breadth of service offerings, and robust balance sheet to fund growth and investment – just to name a few. However, not every investor is the same. Many employ business practices inconsistent with the culture of founder/owner-backed businesses, which smart entrepreneurs/operators can use to their advantage. Owners with ambitions to grow can be aggressive with tuck-in acquisitions to offer differentiated services and build breadth/new skills in their businesses. Alternatively, businesses struggling to make it on their own or with owners approaching retirement, can partner with larger service providers so they can keep practicing their trade without having to run the day-to-day business – just be careful with selecting the right investor to protect your people and legacy. 3. React in Real Time One thing the HVAC and plumbing industry has proven over the last few years is its resilience – especially for the best operators. No matter what the economic climate is, homeowners still need to protect and stay comfortable in their most valuable asset. That should provide a sense of job security to HVAC and plumbing professionals — but also motivate you to go the extra mile to attract and retain business. Just because the HVAC and plumbing industry has shown signs of being recession-resistant (for now) does not mean it can’t be impacted by the economy. That’s why it’s crucial to manage the business daily – especially pricing and the components of gross margin. The best operators review cost inputs with their teams weekly and adjust mid-month, which ultimately helps the business maintain its health and profitability. As we head into the back half of 2024, it will be interesting to see how the rest of the year plays out for the industry, and I continue to be optimistic about a bounce back after a tough 2023. We will have to wait and see-but with the strategies above, businesses can position for success no matter what happens in the future.

The demands of HVAC professionals are unique, often requiring them to work in extreme conditions that necessitate gear that can keep up. Every day, these workers face fluctuating temperatures and a variety of hazardous environments. As such, the development of their uniforms has become a critical focus in the industry, with the goal of transforming them from basic work wear into high-performance apparel that meets the unique challenges of the HVAC work environment. Modern HVAC technicians’ uniforms now integrate materials that resist wear and tear while providing flexibility and comfort. They also incorporate safety features to protect against common on-site risks, such as electrical hazards and extreme heat. Integrating these technologies elevates comfort and enhances the protection of HVAC professionals, ensuring they can perform at their best. This article focuses on the latest innovations in HVAC uniforms, focusing on the materials and technologies that are enhancing both comfort and safety for professionals in the field. The Role of Safety and Comfort in HVAC Work Comfort and safety are vital for HVAC professionals, who regularly handle extreme conditions and complex tasks. On the one hand, comfort is crucial because HVAC work often involves long hours in tight, uncomfortable spaces or in harsh outdoor climates. The job also requires frequent bending, lifting, and climbing. High-visibility options ensure workers are easily seen in low-light states, reducing the risk of mishaps Uniforms that offer adaptive comfort, such as those made from breathable fabrics that regulate temperature, can prevent overheating in the summer and provide insulation in the winter. Furthermore, durable and flexible uniforms prevent common injuries related to overexertion and repetitive motion, thereby safeguarding workers’ long-term health. This adaptability allows technicians to focus more on their work and less on the discomfort caused by their environment. Safety is equally crucial because the environments in which HVAC technicians operate are laden with potential hazards, from electrical risks to exposure to harmful chemicals, refrigerants, and gasses. Safety-focused uniforms that include features like fire-resistant materials and reinforced padding can protect against burns, cuts, and other injuries. High-visibility options ensure workers are easily seen in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents. Key Materials Enhancing the Performance of HVAC Uniform Here, we explore some of the key materials that are transforming HVAC workwear: Moisture-wicking fabrics: Moisture-wicking materials are integrated into HVAC uniforms to keep technicians dry and comfortable. These fabrics draw sweat away from the body to the exterior of the clothing, where it can evaporate quickly, maintaining body temperature and reducing discomfort. Ripstop nylon: Ripstop nylon in HVAC uniforms prevents tears and abrasions from sharp objects and rough surfaces. This material ensures the uniform's longevity and the wearer's safety. Thermo-regulated textiles: These textiles help maintain a stable body temperature by incorporating materials that adapt to temperature changes. They cool the body in hot environments and insulate it in cold conditions, providing year-round comfort. Antimicrobial treatments: Antimicrobial treatments are applied to HVAC uniforms to prevent the growth of bacteria and odors. This feature is particularly important as it helps maintain hygiene and freshness, even during long working hours. Flame-resistant materials: These materials are handy when electrical hazards are present. Flame-resistant materials protect against sudden flashes of heat or direct flames, Reflective materials: These are incorporated into uniform designs for increased visibility in low-light conditions. They are essential for ensuring the safety of technicians working in dimly lit or night-time settings. Spandex blends: Spandex is often blended with other fabrics for enhanced mobility. This addition allows for a greater range of motion, which is crucial for technicians who must navigate tight spaces or perform complex maneuvers. Innovative Technologies  Innovative Technologies in HVAC Uniforms for Enhanced Safety and Comfort The following technologies are ensuring HVAC workers perform their tasks with increased efficiency and reduced risk: Smart Fabrics Smart fabrics have sensors to monitor environmental conditions and adjust the uniform's properties accordingly. This can include changes in the fabric's permeability to increase breathability or the activation of thermal elements during sudden temperature drops. Reinforced Padding Strategically placed padding protects wearers from injuries related to impacts or falls. This padding is often lightweight and designed not to restrict movement, allowing for safe and comfortable mobility even in tight spaces. UV Protection For technicians who work outdoors, UV-protective fabrics shield them from harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. This technology is crucial for maintaining skin health during prolonged outdoor exposure. Anti-Static Features Static electricity can pose a significant risk in environments dealing with flammable substances and electrical components. Anti-static technologies in HVAC uniforms prevent static electricity buildup, reducing the risk of sparks and enhancing safety in potentially explosive atmospheres. Stretch Technology Stretch technology is often used in HVAC fabric production to ensure that uniforms do not restrict movement. This allows for greater flexibility and mobility, which is essential for HVAC technicians who must maneuver in tight spaces or adopt various postures during work. Potential Future Trends in HVAC Uniforms Here are some anticipated trends that could redefine the standard for HVAC workwear: Smart textiles: Textiles embedded with sensors and wearable technology will become more prevalent, providing real-time data on environmental conditions and the wearer's health status. This can include monitoring temperature, heart rate, and other vital signs to prevent heat exhaustion or other health-related issues. IoT connectivity: Future uniforms might include IoT connectivity to monitor vital signs or the environmental conditions surrounding the technician. This technology can send alerts if unsafe conditions are detected or if a health parameter goes beyond safe limits. Eco-friendly materials: As sustainability becomes a priority, we can expect a shift toward eco-friendly materials in HVAC uniforms. Enhanced durability: New materials and manufacturing techniques will likely improve the durability of HVAC uniforms, making them resistant to tears, abrasions, and extreme conditions. HVAC Innovation A Move Towards HVAC Innovation that Balances Comfort and Safety Comfort and safety in HVAC uniforms are crucial, given the challenging environments in which technicians operate. Fortunately, current innovations in materials and technologies specifically address these critical aspects, enhancing the daily work lives of HVAC professionals. While significant strides have been made, there remains ample opportunity for further advancements. Areas such as IoT connectivity, smart textiles, and eco-friendly materials hold the potential to revolutionize HVAC workwear even further, promising a future where uniforms proactively support the health and efficiency of technicians. This forward-thinking approach ensures that as the HVAC industry advances, the workwear of its professionals will keep pace.

Gaining early popularity in the 1970s, previous generations of heat pumps were only considered useful in mild climates. But today, modern heat pumps, especially variable-speed mini-split heat pumps, are reliable, sustainable, and used in various ways, including ways our parents and grandparents would never have thought of. New uses include she sheds, man caves, garages, tiny homes, sunrooms, and even boats.  We spoke to Sean Gallagher, Regional Sales Manager, Eastern Massachusetts, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), to discuss how people use heat pumps in the U.S. and abroad. He described some of the technology's varied (and sometimes surprising!) uses.  Q: What are the most common applications of heat pumps on boats and marine crafts, and how do they differ from residential or commercial uses?  Gallagher: I know one Diamond Contractor® who installed a heat pump on his father’s yacht. Since my territory includes Southeast Massachusetts and Rhode Island, I frequently see heat pumps on the large car-carrying and passenger-carrying ferries. Although commercial applications like ferries are more common, I think we will see more heat pumps on people’s boats and yachts, especially since we use an anti-corrosion coating that protects the outdoor heat exchanger against salt, sulfur and other airborne contaminants that impact the efficiency and performance of outdoor units.   Q: What are some other "off-beat" or previously underappreciated applications for heat pumps – she sheds, man caves, garages, tiny homes, sunrooms, or something similar?  Heat pumps are being used in high-end campers like Airstreams, smaller campers, parking lot kiosks Gallagher: All those applications apply, and there’s plenty more. My niece lives in a 400-square-foot studio apartment over my garage that’s heated and cooled with a heat pump. I also installed a low, wall-mounted heat pump unit in my father’s tool and woodworking shed. Since his tools hang on the wall, he didn’t want to give up any wall space, so now, he has a climate-controlled workshop that suits his needs. Heat pumps are also being used in high-end campers like Airstreams, smaller campers, parking lot kiosks, food trucks, and even intermodal shipping containers turned into spaces like laboratories.   Q: What are the key advantages of using variable-speed mini-split heat pumps in smaller applications in various climates?  Gallagher: All-climate heat pumps can conquer any climate in New England and most of the United States. Overall, variable-speed mini-split heat pumps provide efficiency, ease of installation, comfort, and quiet, regardless of outdoor temperature. Some of the best heat pumps on the market provide warmth, even if the temperature drops to a chilly –22 degrees F. At the opposite end of the thermometer, heat pump systems can cool indoor spaces when it’s a scorching 115 degrees F.  Q: How does the equipment used for these applications differ from the equipment in more common HVAC use cases?  Gallagher: In most HVAC use cases, people use a unitary, conventional HVAC device to heat a home. However, the market has been moving away from unitary devices toward having custom control in every room. Think about if you turned on your kitchen faucet and every faucet in the house turned on, or if you turned on your bedroom light and every light in your home turned on with it. It’s inefficient, which is how unitary systems work. All-climate heat pumps give precise temperature control and custom comfort in any area, whether it’s a shed, man cave, or garage. Each person can heat or cool the space to their comfort level. This is how heat pumps work in general and in these off-beat use cases.  Q: How has the reliability of modern heat pump technology expanded the potential for marine and other applications?   One-to-one heat pumps are perfect for smaller applications because of their turn-down ratio Gallagher: Since Mitsubishi Electric’s Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i®) technology is not new – having come out around 2009 – the technology has grown by leaps and bounds. Today’s one-to-one heat pumps are perfect for smaller applications because of their turn-down ratio. They can ramp up quickly and then throttle back to meet the needs of a space, through a setpoint, in heating and cooling to use only the energy necessary to maintain the comfort of that indoor space. Multi-zone applications can handle larger spaces with ease and efficiency.  Q: Can you provide examples of how heat pumps are being used on boats or marine crafts in the U.S. and abroad? What technologies are they replacing?  Gallagher: Heat pumps are replacing electric-resistance heat, gas-fired HVAC units, and hydronic systems for watercraft powered by steam. For cooling, heat pumps are replacing chilled water systems on larger ships. Heat pumps are frequently used on large car-carrying and passenger-carrying ferries. I also know of people who have installed them on yachts and other boats, which I think will become more prevalent.  Q: What are the challenges HVAC professionals might face when installing and maintaining heat pumps on boats and/or in smaller applications?  The biggest challenge they face is contending with the caustic nature of the saltwater environment Gallagher: For maritime applications, the biggest challenge they face is contending with the caustic nature of the saltwater environment. I mentioned this a minute ago, but salt can degrade non-ferrous metals, like copper and aluminum. It’s crucial to use an anti-corrosion coating that protects the outdoor heat exchanger against salt, sulfur, and other airborne contaminants that impact the efficiency and performance of outdoor units. Some companies specialize in taking heat pumps apart and coating all the parts that could corrode to prevent them from doing so. This makes the heat pumps last much longer than they otherwise would.  Q: How does the installation of heat pumps on boats align with the growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable solutions in the marine industry?  Gallagher: Energy-efficient heat pumps consume far less energy than a conventional HVAC system. Heat pump systems cycle hot and cold air where it’s wanted depending on the season and provide personalized comfort on a boat year-round. Modern heat pumps, especially variable-speed mini-split heat pumps, are reliable and sustainable, providing high-performance heating and air conditioning on boats anywhere, even in extremely cold or warm climates. Heat pumps are preferable in most climates, as the efficacy of a heat pump is generally 1.5 to 4 times greater when compared with electric resistance heating. {##Poll1731297929 - Which of these applications for heat pumps seems most surprising?##}

The British Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is an essential initiative for building owners, security professionals, and HVAC experts aiming to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. Designed to replace aging fossil fuel boilers with low-carbon alternatives, this United Kingdom government-backed scheme provides financial incentives that make upgrading more accessible. With rising energy prices and stricter environmental regulations, the program could benefit property investors and tenants while fostering collaboration across the HVAC industry.  What is the British Boiler Upgrade Scheme?   The British Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government program focused on reducing the UK’s carbon footprint. It encourages homeowners and building owners in England and Wales to upgrade their outdated fossil fuel-based heating systems. The scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 (around $9,600) for air or ground-source heat pump installations and £5,000 (about $6,400) for biomass boilers.  Environmentally friendly alternatives The program's target is to facilitate 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028 These grants help offset the costs of upgrading to more environmentally friendly alternatives, making it more appealing for building owners to switch. The program's target is to facilitate 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028, but uptake has been slower than anticipated due to several challenges, including limited public awareness and a shortage of trained installers.  Air-source heat pump grants The government’s latest figures show a growing demand, with applications reaching 55,095 by the end of September 2024. Most grants (97%) are for air-source heat pumps. In September, 1,882 grants were paid out, bringing the scheme’s overall total to 34,438 grants.  "An uplift in applications for September, following a record year for heat pump installations so far, reaffirms that more homeowners than ever are recognizing the substantial benefits of upgrading to greener heating systems,” comments Gav Murray, Hive Heating Director at Centrica New Business and Net Zero.   Additional funding “The government's announcement of additional funding for the upgrade scheme will help to alleviate concerns that support for households was set to be reduced,” Murray adds. “Industry leaders must now work together to capitalize on this and ensure the workforce has the skills to convince would-be adopters and deliver on rolling out the technology to more homes across the country.”  How the Scheme Promotes Greater Use of HVAC Technology   The inclusion of hybrid heat pumps in the scheme allows for a smoother transition The Boiler Upgrade Scheme serves as a driving force behind the increased adoption of advanced HVAC technologies like heat pumps. By providing financial incentives, it encourages building owners to transition to sustainable systems that are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Not only do these technologies reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but they also align with the UK’s broader initiative to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Importantly, the inclusion of hybrid heat pumps in the scheme allows for a smoother transition. These systems combine traditional boilers with heat pumps, offering the quickest route to decarbonization for existing properties without demanding excessive financial outlay.  Benefits for Tenants and Investors   The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers numerous benefits for both tenants and investors. For tenants, upgrading to heat pumps or biomass boilers means lower energy bills due to increased efficiency. This reduction in utility costs is particularly attractive in a time of rising energy prices. Additionally, the environmental benefits of these upgrades—namely, reduced carbon emissions—are a strong selling point for environmentally conscious tenants.  Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings For investors and building owners, there are financial gains as well. The installation of modern HVAC systems can increase property values by enhancing energy efficiency and lowering operational costs. Buildings with better Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings are more attractive to investors, offering lower long-term running costs and potentially higher rental income. Moreover, the ability to command higher property values and comply with future environmental regulations adds to the scheme's appeal.  Encouraging Collaboration Across the Industry   The Boiler Upgrade Scheme promotes collaboration among various stakeholders in the building and HVAC The Boiler Upgrade Scheme goes beyond offering financial incentives, it promotes collaboration among various stakeholders in the building and HVAC industries. Building owners, managers, architects, and HVAC professionals must work together to ensure that new systems are installed correctly and that properties are optimized for energy efficiency.  BMS and smart technology The scheme also creates an opportunity to integrate energy-efficient upgrades with building management systems (BMS) and smart technology solutions. These integrated systems can enhance overall building performance, reduce energy consumption, and improve tenant comfort and security. Hybrid heat pumps, now included in the scheme, further encourage industry collaboration. Their adoption requires a coordinated effort from engineers, architects, and HVAC specialists to ensure that both the traditional and renewable components of the heating system work seamlessly together.

Housecall Pro, founded in 2013, seeks to transform how home service professionals manage their businesses. Their mission to "Champion Our Pros to Success" underlies a software platform that offers scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, payment processing, payroll, and customer management solutions.   artificial intelligence (AI) In addition, the “AI Team Member,” using artificial intelligence (AI), provides specialized expertise through AI-powered coaches, customer service reps, analysts, and marketers, allowing businesses to offload busy work and discover growth opportunities.   Housecall Pro has fostered success beyond software has cultivated a community of home service professionals and offered personalized business coaching. The holistic approach, combining technology with human-centric support, positions Housecall Pro as a partner in their clients' success, according to the company.  on-site efficiency Automating everyday tasks, scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing enables pros to work As a technology company, Housecall Pro delivers tailored solutions for players in the HVAC ecosystem, says Roland Ligtenberg, a co-founder. “Contractors benefit from streamlined scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing, freeing them from time-consuming admin work,” says Ligtenberg. “Installers gain mobile access to job details and customer information, boosting on-site efficiency.”  Technology is the engine that can drive any successful HVAC business, turning chaos into streamlined operations, says Ligtenberg. Automating everyday tasks, scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing enables pros to work “on” their business, not just “in” it, he adds.   real-time insights Digital tools provide real-time insights into job performance and team productivity while enhancing the customer experience, ultimately delivering five-star-level service. Mobile apps keep the team connected, ensuring communication and quick service.   Manufacturers can partner with Housecall Pro to leverage contractor and platform insights, ensuring a seamless contractor experience by getting the right materials on time. service experience The difficulty in finding experienced workers limits growth, forcing businesses to invest heavily in training Consumers enjoy enhanced communication, transparent pricing, and simple payment options, driving a better service experience. By connecting these players, Housecall Pro fuels efficiency, collaboration, and growth throughout the HVAC industry says Ligtenberg.  Broader employment trends like the shortage of skilled labor, high turnover, and training challenges put serious pressure on field service management. The difficulty in finding experienced workers limits growth, forcing businesses to invest heavily in training or find efficiencies to attract top talent. real-time guidance Housecall Pro can help by standardizing processes with features like checklists and automated workflows, thus ensuring tasks are performed correctly. The platform streamlines onboarding, supports technicians with real-time guidance, and maximizes productivity.  Field service management in HVAC is tough, juggling complex scheduling, dispatching, and mobile workforces while maintaining service quality can overwhelm any business. Many struggle to identify the key data and key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive their growth.   centralized platform Housecall Pro’ centralized platform automates scheduling, delivers real-time updates, and keeps teams connected Housecall Pro’ centralized platform automates scheduling, delivers real-time updates, and keeps teams connected. “Our AI Team Members offload repetitive tasks, freeing up pros to focus on what matters most,” says Ligtenberg. “The intuitive interface and robust reporting tools help HVAC companies track job progress, monitor technician performance, and optimize routes.”  operational efficiency HVAC contractors can supercharge their growth with Housecall Pro by leveraging their “AI Team Members,” which handle tasks from analysis and accounting to marketing and customer service. The platform automates admin work, boosts operational efficiency, and elevates the customer experience. The built-in marketing tools attract new clients with automated follow-ups and personalized communication and also keep existing customers coming back. Service plans, or memberships, drive recurring revenue and customer loyalty.   smart solutions Housecall Pro’s suite of digital tools is designed to help contractors thrive The HVAC industry is rapidly transforming with rising demand for smart solutions, energy efficiency, and modernized operations. Housecall Pro’s suite of digital tools is designed to help contractors thrive.  “Choosing the right field service management solution is critical, and Housecall Pro puts AI at the forefront of where the industry is headed,” says Ligtenberg. “Staying ahead of the curve is the greatest competitive advantage.”  scalable network effect Ligtenberg adds, “Our community is second to none, connecting with like-minded pros who are early adopters of best practices and cutting-edge technology." "In addition to powerful tools, Housecall Pro provides a network that blends innovation, passion, and a commitment to growth. This combination of advanced technology and a vibrant community creates a scalable network effect, ensuring you’re always competing at the highest level,” says Ligtenberg. {##Poll1728362872 - What is the biggest challenge your HVAC business faces today?##}

The Olsen Group, based in Boca Raton, Florida, is a national pioneer in HVAC energy optimization. Donald Olsen and his seasoned team of HVAC control specialists have been in business for two decades, integrating energy-saving solutions into over a thousand commercial and large-scale residential projects. In the process, the Olsen Group has become one of North America’s top suppliers of Verdant thermostats. Verdant devices leverage intelligent occupancy sensors and proprietary software to reduce HVAC runtimes by 45 percent on average. HVAC control integration Verdant’s effectiveness, reliability, and broad compatibility have made Verdant the energy management solution of choice for thousands of hotels and MDUs, including multifamily buildings, senior living, and student housing.  The Olsen Group has forged a productive two-way partnership with Verdant. Donald Olsen and his team have made it a priority to share data, customer feedback, and requirements with Verdant – and Verdant, in turn, has come to rely on Olsen when they need to field test a new solution. In May of 2024, Verdant reached out to Olsen for help with a new pilot program aiming to facilitate more effective HVAC control integration, easier service, and deep energy savings for MDU projects around the globe. The Challenge Commercial VRF systems have an extremely attractive set of upsides for hotel operators Inverter (VRF) system design is becoming increasingly common in hospitality settings. Commercial VRF systems have an extremely attractive set of upsides for hotel operators. They are significantly more energy efficient and quieter than traditional VTACs or PTACs; they can provide simultaneous heating and cooling to different zones for optimal guest comfort; and they allow both individual room-level setpoint control and building-level centralized management. However, the majority of VRF units cannot connect directly to a third-party smart thermostat. Because they rely on proprietary manufacturer protocols for variable speed commands and internal diagnostics, VRF units require an external control solution to facilitate bidirectional communication with Verdant thermostats. Installation and commissioning process Every additional component in a system adds complexity and opportunity for human error. In hotels, that complexity is multiplied across hundreds of rooms. “HVAC systems are installed dark for new builds, with no power running to the site,” says Donald Olsen, President and Owner of the Olsen Group. “There’s no way to test as we go. If there are any mistakes during installation, we find out about it when the lights go on after project completion.” And mistakes are nearly inevitable. Some third-party controllers have prominent dipswitches that can be easily snagged or tripped during transportation or installation, altering their configuration and causing them to fail once the system is powered. These switches are often accidentally tripped multiple times throughout the installation and commissioning process, pioneering to a never-ending cycle of errors and service calls. VRF control solutions  Adding to the issue, not all third-party control keys have the ability to retrieve and solve system error codes “Once properly configured and installed, VRF control solutions tend to be incredibly reliable,” says Olsen. “Getting them there is a real challenge, however. Accidents, human error, and repeated recalibrations can drive serious project overruns and client dissatisfaction.” Adding to the problem, not all third-party control solutions have the capability to retrieve and translate system error codes. “If the central management system isn’t getting certified manufacturer control signals from the control device, it may no longer recognize the thermostat. The system will continue to function, but it will always show up in the central manager with an error message,” warns Olsen. Airzone Aidoo Pro control solution These false error reports degrade the overall utility of the central management system, robbing operators of the ability to detect and mitigate problems proactively and requiring onsite testing to diagnose any issues. As VRF systems become the norm for hospitality projects, Verdant needed a solution to reduce the possibility of accidental misconfiguration and improve visibility into system functionality. They called on Olsen to conduct a pilot program, retrofitting sixteen VRF units in the Jacksonville Beach, FL Springhill Suites with the Airzone Aidoo Pro control solution. The Solution For the pilot, the Olsen Group outfitted each VRV unit in the loop with an Aidoo Pro controller The Jacksonville Beach Springhill Suites is a 156-room hotel with a state-of-the-art Daikin VRV rooftop chiller system. The Airzone Aidoo Pro ships preconfigured for the specific HVAC unit model, reducing the possibility for errors during initial installation. For the pilot, the Olsen Group outfitted each VRV unit in the loop with an Aidoo Pro controller. This 1:1 system design simplifies operations and troubleshooting: Any issue can be immediately traced back to a single unit, minimizing the scope and duration or repair downtime. “The Airzone Aidoo Pro offered two key upgrades as a VRV control solution,” says Olsen. “First, the dipswitches are recessed, making them much harder to trip accidentally. Second, Aidoo makes the system much easier to service. We can read error codes, run tests, and diagnose issues remotely, without ever needing to disrupt a guest’s stay.” Airzone’s expansive library This advanced remote management is enabled by Airzone’s expansive library of manufacturer protocols. “Because of our close relationship with HVAC manufacturers, Aidoo Pro can provide the proprietary control signals the central management system is expecting to see,” says Borja Fernandez, Director of OEM Solutions, Airzone. “That preserves all the features of the HVAC unit and thermostat, while also eliminating persistent false error codes. With Aidoo Pro, the central management system can function as a single-pane-of-glass HVAC monitoring and control solution for the building, as intended.” Results and Next Steps The pilot program is expanding to new builds around the globe, including projects in the UK Olsen reports that Springhill Suites is happy with their upgraded VRV system. “They have more visibility into the system and fewer services calls,” says Olsen. “When there is an issue, we can diagnose it remotely for faster resolution and less guest room downtime. It’s a much better customer experience overall.” Verdant is encouraged as well. This pilot program is expanding to several new builds around the globe, including projects in Central America, the Caribbean, the UK, and the EU. HVAC energy savings “There is a massive untapped market for energy-efficient HVAC upgrades in the Caribbean region,” says Olsen. “Energy costs there can exceed a dollar per kilowatt hour. Cost-effective devices like Verdant thermostats and the Airzone Aidoo Pro pay for themselves very easily in that scenario.” Verdant and the Olsen Group have built global brands by helping commercial properties realize significant HVAC energy savings. Through the Airzone Aidoo Pro pilot program, they are continuing to innovate, enabling reliable integration and enterprise-grade control on highly efficient VRF units. “The demand for commercial VRF control is definitely there,” says Olsen. “With Verdant and Airzone, we can deliver it with ease.”

In facilities with high volumes of foot traffic, the constant opening and closing of doors not only lets in chilly air but can cause heating problems for the entire building. Cold drafts bring the temperatures down, so while main rooms benefit from the warmth of the building’s primary heating system, many other areas are left to deal with the arctic side effects. Vestibules, lobbies, entranceways, and hallways are frequently populated, so it’s imperative that facilities hunker down and counteract the cold drafts left behind by those entering and leaving buildings.  Opt for electric ceiling heaters To help neutralize these blustery winds, facilities should consider fan-forced wall heaters that provide continuous comfort through optimized airflow. Such units are ideal for entryways and other spaces where short bursts of heat are needed – providing a tremendous advantage over gentle heating sources that may not be powerful enough to provide the desired amount of warmth. However, if wall and floor space is minimal, facilities can instead opt for electric ceiling heaters. Mounted flat or recessed to the ceiling, these heaters are ideal not only for entryways but also in conference rooms, waiting areas, bathrooms, and lobbies. No matter the case, both products move heated air with a fan to quickly heat the room from the wall or ceiling. Once the heater turns on, the air is moved over a heating element and circulated into the space, making certain that residents are met with warmth and comfort from the time they enter the building until they leave.  Specialized heating units Specialized heating units are designed to stop drafts in their tracks before they laid throughout a building Whether it’s through vents, unsealed windows or cracks and crevices in the building’s foundation, cold air will creep into facilities any way it can. This cool air can make indoor temperatures uncomfortable for occupants and reduce the overall heating efficiency of the facility. Specialized heating units are designed to stop drafts in their tracks before they spread throughout a building.  Fan-forced wall and ceiling heaters with an automatic delay feature eliminate cold drafts on start-up and discharge residual heat from the heater body during the shutdown, helping attack drafts at their source, making the best use of available heat and prolonging the life of the heater. Equipped with integrated thermostats To maintain desirable comfort levels, facilities should consider fan-forced wall or ceiling heaters equipped with integrated thermostats or BMS connections for easy adjustment of room temperatures. A hotel’s vestibule, for example, may experience high amounts of foot traffic during check-in and check-out hours. Because fewer people are coming and going outside of these times, the adjustable thermostat feature allows facilities to alter their heating output needs to ensure heat is not misused and temperatures remain comfortable. For commercial fan-forced wall heaters with striking designs and contemporary looks, Berko® and QMark® offer units to match any room’s décor while supplying an appropriate amount of warmth no matter the time of year. Safety First Fan-forced wall or ceiling heaters are built with easily accessible power on/off switches for safety Safety and style go hand-in-hand. While selecting a heater that fits a building’s esthetic is important, opting for a high-quality product that protects against common safety risks should be a top-of-mind priority. Fan-forced wall or ceiling heaters are built with easily accessible power on/off switches for added safety during maintenance. Tamper-proof plugs for thermostat holes prevent unwanted changes to the temperature and keep children and pets from getting into places they shouldn’t.  All fan-forced units also come with thermal overheat protectors that disconnect power in the event of accidental dust or debris blockages to mitigate the risk of injury. Additionally, heaters that include permanently lubricated and enclosed fan motors are shown to have longer lives, require less maintenance and gently administer heat throughout a space. Keep in mind that some heaters are noisier than others, so make sure to choose one powerful enough to negate drafts but quiet enough to prevent disturbances from interrupting daily activities.  Maintaining Warmth and Comfort Drafts bring cold air and a lasting chill into heated spaces every time a door opens, especially during the colder months. To offset the frigidness, consider installing a fan-forced wall or ceiling heater to regain suitable levels of warmth and comfort for all building occupants. Berko and QMark’s commercial fan-forced wall and ceiling heaters provide the strongest, safest sources of heat for those chilly spaces.

Nearly Bergamo, Italy, there is a weather station that collects meteorological data and monitors air quality. Its operation requires professional equipment that, however, works without a permanent power supply or the presence of staff. Such conditions put the equipment and other assets at risk. In fact, the station had already suffered from several intrusion attempts and needed a security system to be put in place. Challenge Protect a remote object without a permanent power supply Like many remote objects, the weather station does not have a permanent power supply and cannot afford a full-time presence of staff members on the site. After several intrusion attempts, the client needed to secure an area of 600 square meters, prevent equipment theft, and put an end to the damage made to the agricultural produce growing on the site. They looked for a professional security system that could operate outdoors without mains power and was easy to manage remotely.  Solution Wireless outdoor security system with flexible power options and remote control The implemented security system consists of 11 Ajax devices, coupled with a third-party solar panel, battery, and case In response to the challenge, Von Wunster Next s.r.l. configured a solution for securing the object that has no permanent power source or staff on-site but has extensive sun exposure. The implemented security system consists of 11 Ajax devices, coupled with a third-party solar panel, battery, and case. At the core of the system, there is a Hub 2 (2G) Jeweller control panel with a low-voltage PSU 6V. The latter allows the hub to operate from an external 7 A h battery for years. The battery, in turn, is charged via the 25 W solar panel (10 A). If the external power supply fails, the hub switches to a built-in battery and continues to protect the object for up to 16 hours or even 60 hours if the Battery Power Saver feature is enabled. The client and central monitoring station of the security company instantly receive a notification about the power issue to be fixed. The company has enough time to get to the remote object for restoring power without compromising its security. A SIM card (2G) ensures connection with the network, so Von Wunster Next s.r.l. won’t miss a thing. StreetSiren DoubleDeck Other elements of the security system are wireless outdoor Ajax devices that operate with pre-installed batteries for up to 3 years. Several MotionCam Outdoor Jeweller cover the perimeter and detect movement within seconds. The device’s photo-by-alarm feature allows minimizing expensive patrol dispatches to false alarms and gives the client peace of mind. StreetSiren DoubleDeck activates the sound of up to 113 dB and bright LED indicators in response to an alarm to deter and expose intruders. Communication with the wireless devices is provided via Ajax proprietary radio protocols Jeweler and Wings at a distance of up to 2,000 m. It’s perfect for covering large areas such as that of the station. Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller key fobs Dealing with the security system is as easy as it gets for both the client and the security company The client can control security modes effortlessly. There are four end users with different rights, and they can manage the system in the Ajax app on their phones and with wireless Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller key fobs. Von Wunster Next s.r.l., which installed the system and conducts monitoring, can track the devices’ status and take care of their configuration and maintenance remotely in the majority of cases.  Dealing with the security system is as easy as it gets for both the client and the security company. All the devices are either weather-resistant or reliably hidden in the case to withstand the impacts of the environment. Constant exposure to rain or sun does not affect the security system. Why Ajax Flexible power supply options. Ajax's product portfolio includes PSUs designed to connect the system to a low-voltage power supply even when no permanent power source is available. Wireless Ajax devices operate with pre-installed batteries for up to 3 years. Visual alarm verification. With photo verification, system users and monitoring company operators can promptly verify whether an alarm is real and save costs on patrol dispatches. It is a particularly important feature for remote objects. Remote system management. The system can be managed, configured, and maintained through Ajax apps with no people present on-site, which is a cost-effective solution for a remote object. Products Hub 2 (2G) Jeweller - Security system control panel with support for photo verification MotionCam Outdoor Jeweller - Wireless outdoor motion detector with a photo camera to verify alarms 6V PSU for Hub 2/Hub 2 Plus/ReX 2 - Power supply unit for operation of the device from portable battery StreetSiren DoubleDeck Jeweller - Wireless outdoor siren with a clip lock for a branded faceplate Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller - A key fob for controlling security modes

When Harry Lau, Administrator for Facilities and Operations for the Livonia Public Schools, joined the district in 2013, he identified a significant need to improve the HVAC equipment throughout the entire school system. All 25 buildings, including schools and administration offices, had significant inefficiencies with their HVAC systems. The infrastructure was outdated and the horizontal unit ventilators that were in use were from the 1950s and 60s and were well beyond their life expectancy. The old units were prone to freezing, and there were control issues that further exacerbated the problem. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and inefficient temperature controls led to discomfort among staff and students, impacting the overall learning environment. His primary goal was to reduce the number of environmental air quality concerns, reduce district utility and maintenance costs, and improve the overall comfort and air quality throughout the system. The Solution To address these issues, Livonia Public Schools secured funds via a successful bond measure To address these issues, Livonia Public Schools secured funds through a successful bond measure. There were multiple contractors and manufacturers involved for the entire system upgrade, but for the classrooms specifically, the district chose to upgrade to Airedale by Modine Classmate® vertical units. Looking at the specifications of these units, Harry was certain the Classmate® would meet their needs.  The previous units had structural and design issues that led to multiple repairs, and Harry knew that they would have fewer maintenance issues with the Classmate® because of the way they are designed. They also chose to modernize control of the system by implementing a building management system allowing for real-time monitoring and centralized management of the HVAC systems across all buildings. The Results The HVAC system upgrades have resulted in dramatic improvements in IAQ and energy efficiency. The new systems have provided better temperature control, faster cooling, and heating, and have reduced energy consumption by 20%. The upgraded systems also led to a quieter environment, enhancing the learning experience. The ability to monitor and manage the HVAC systems in real time has allowed for proactive maintenance and further cost savings. Harry said he wanted the classroom instructors to have some anonymity with temperature control. While the set points follow ASHRAE recommendations, the units are equipped to give the teachers some control to bump the temperature up or down a few degrees to suit their comfort level and those of the students.  "With partners like Modine, they opened our eyes on ways of doing things," said Harry Lau, adding "It has been refreshing to actually be heard by the professionals." Implementation of HVAC upgrades Livonia Public Schools has been recognized by the U.S. DOE’s Efficient and Healthy Schools Program Because of their commitment to improving IAQ and energy efficiency, Livonia Public Schools has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Efficient and Healthy Schools Program. This program recognizes and assists school districts seeking to implement high-impact indoor air quality and efficiency improvements. They were honored for optimizing their operations to improve building performance. The district was also recognized by the city as a green energy partner. Harry said that the classroom learning environments have been dramatically updated and they have seen a significant improvement. The consistent modulation of the fresh air has been greatly noticed. Livonia Public Schools’ proactive approach to HVAC upgrades A huge point of pride for the district was being able to confidently inform their staff and parents that they were ahead of the curve in ensuring quality indoor air once students and staff were able to return to indoor classroom learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Livonia Public Schools’ proactive approach and successful implementation of HVAC upgrades have set a benchmark for other districts aiming to improve their learning environments through better air quality and energy efficiency.

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.

Renewable energy is derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed. Examples include sunlight, wind, water, and geothermal heat. The use of renewables provides environmental benefits (such as lower greenhouse gas emissions), economic advantages, sustainability, and better energy security. As a significant consumer of energy, HVAC is well-positioned to promote greater usage of renewable energy sources. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How can the HVAC market better embrace renewable energy?

HVAC systems perform an important function in healthcare facilities, ensuring an environment conducive to healing and optimum health. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How can the industry address HVAC challenges in hospitals and healthcare facilities?  

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?