Smart Home

Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, announced its successful completion of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump (CCHP) Challenge for high-efficiency heating in extremely cold temperatures. After surpassing DOE laboratory tests, the Trane® high-efficiency, Cold Climate Heat Pump prototype, installed at a Boise, Idaho residence, successfully warmed the home for two winters by extracting heat from the air – relying on its backup electric heat strip only 10% of the time. During field trials over two full summer and winter seasons of cooling and heating, the prototype delivered the homeowner 15-20% average energy bill savings. Climate control solutions "We were confident going into the Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge in our ability to deliver cutting-edge, highly-efficient climate control solutions – the results were outstanding and we’re proud of our performance," said Dwayne Cowan, President, Residential HVAC, Trane Technologies, adding "Backed by our purpose-driven strategy and relentless investment in innovation, we are ready to continue scaling today’s technology for a sustainable tomorrow." "Our modeling was spot on with how the prototype functioned in the field, and we were thrilled to hear of the homeowner’s outstanding reviews as well as their energy savings," said Katie Davis, Vice President of Engineering and Technology, Residential HVAC, Trane Technologies, adding "We are excited to advance electrification of heating in homes, while maintaining both comfort and efficiency for its occupants." New product development programs Trane Technologies is one of the first companies to successfully complete the CCHP challenge Trane Technologies is one of the first companies to successfully complete the CCHP challenge. The company’s prototype has been relocated to its Tyler, Texas manufacturing facility, where it will continue to undergo robust performance evaluations at the site’s new state-of-the-art psychrometric testing labs – used for new product development programs and capable of withstanding temperatures as low as negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The company will complete the design for its new Trane residential Cold Climate Heat Pump, with additional comfort and efficiency enhancements, in 2025. The Cold Climate Heat Pump will be compatible with advanced, connected comfort solutions, including Trane Link, enabling seamless integration with Trane’s comprehensive ecosystem of smart home technologies. 2030 Sustainability Commitments Additionally, all heat pumps 15 SEER and higher in the company’s newly-announced residential portfolio meet the requirements for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit and incentives and rebates available through the Inflation Reduction Act – significantly reducing upfront costs and achieving long-term energy bill savings for homeowners. Through bold, industry-renowned action and innovation, Trane Technologies is advancing its 2030 Sustainability Commitments, including the Gigaton Challenge to reduce customer emissions by a billion metric tons and its pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company’s emissions reduction targets have been externally validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).

The smart electricity metering market in Asia-Pacific is inching ever closer to the historic milestone of 1 billion installed smart meter devices. The latest research report from the IoT analyst firm Berg Insight analyses the development of smart metering technology in China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. According to the study, the installed base of smart electricity meters in Asia-Pacific will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4 percent from 818.6 million units in 2023 to nearly 1.2 billion units in 2029. At this pace, the milestone of 1 billion installed devices will be reached in mid-2026. Penetration rate of smart electricity meters in Asia-Pacific East Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, has led the adoption of smart metering technology The penetration rate of smart electricity meters in Asia-Pacific will at the same time grow from 61 percent in 2023 to 80 percent in 2029, while cumulative shipments during 2024–2029 will amount to a total of 872.7 million units. East Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, has led the adoption of smart metering technology in Asia-Pacific with ambitious nationwide rollouts and today constitute the most mature smart metering market in the region, accounting for more than 90 percent of the installed base in Asia-Pacific at the end of 2023. Rollout of smart electricity meters in China The rollout of smart electricity meters in China is now complete while Japan is in the end-phase of its rollout. The nationwide rollout in South Korea has suffered a number of delays and the national utility KEPCO now aims to complete the rollout by the end of 2024. Taiwan is the least mature market in East Asia and boasts an installed base of just 2.8 million smart meters. In China and Japan, replacements of first-generation smart meters have already begun, particularly in China where the meter life-cycle is relatively short. Replacements of aging first-generation smart meters “Replacements of aging first-generation smart meters will be the most important driver for smart meter shipments in Asia-Pacific throughout the forecast period. The number of smart meters tendered by the State Grid of China is also expected to become more stable going forward at around 65-70 million units per year,” said Mattias Carlsson, IoT Analyst at Berg Insight. While East Asia constitutes the most mature smart metering market in Asia-Pacific, the fastest growing markets are on the other hand all found in South and Southeast Asia with a wave of smart metering projects now sweeping across the region. India’s new governmental funding scheme The most significant growth is expected in India where a massive new governmental funding scheme was introduced The most significant growth is expected in India where a massive new governmental funding scheme was introduced in the early 2020s with the goal of achieving the installation of 250 million smart prepayment meters. “India is already reaping the benefits from the modernization of its electricity grid and has in the last two years managed to reduce overall aggregate and technical losses significantly,” continued Mr. Carlsson. Positive developments in South-East Asia In neighboring Bangladesh, large-scale smart electricity metering installations are also emerging in a similar push to install smart prepayment metering by the government. “We also observe positive developments in markets such as Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan – particularly the latter two. The Taiwanese smart metering market is showing stable growth, with a state-owned utility that has a track record of meeting set targets. Indonesia still constitutes a nascent smart metering market, but is also a huge market opportunity with a growing economy and impressive electricity user base of almost 86 million,” concluded Mattias Carlsson.

The UK’s largest installer and operator of last mile multi-utility networks, GTC, and the UK’s pioneering manufacturer and installer of award-winning, British-made, ground source heat pumps, The Kensa Group, have joined forces to deliver a low-cost renewable heating and cooling solution for tens of thousands of new build homes a year – introducing the Networked Ground Source Heat Pump solution. This solution offers a clean alternative to gas, which is planned to be banned in new build developments from next year under the Future Homes Standard, requiring all new homes to have low-carbon heating. The Networked Ground Source Heat Pump solution provides reliable home heating and hot water through a ground source heat pump installed in each property, connected to a shared network of hidden underground pipework, similar to what is installed for other utilities. GTC and Kensa partnership Kensa’s compact 'Shoebox' heat pump will fit neatly under the water cylinder inside the home Kensa’s compact 'Shoebox' heat pump will fit neatly under the water cylinder inside the home, saving valuable space and eliminating the need for any external kit, so there's no visual impact on the property. With up to five times the efficiency of gas and a 30% increased efficiency than an equivalent air source heat pump, these ground source heat pumps require no extra electricity capacity, easing developer concerns about site grid capacity. The GTC and Kensa partnership, the largest to be agreed between a utility infrastructure provider and a UK ground source heat pump manufacturer, will bring significant scale, funding, and technical skill to the deployment of networked ground source heat pumps for the new build market – delivering a complete end-to-end heating, hot water, and cooling solution for housebuilders. Infrastructure and design capabilities Through this groundbreaking agreement, GTC will provide the funded solution to housing developers, along with the design, borehole drilling, and network installation, which can be implemented alongside the other utility networks as part of a one-stop shop. Kensa, which has pioneered networked ground source heat pumps in the UK for more than a decade, will add its expertise in infrastructure and design capabilities and supply its highly efficient, UK-manufactured ground source heat pumps to fit each property. Low-carbon heating solution Networked Ground Source Heat Pump key can also be used to heat and cool any non-domestic structures By joining forces, GTC and Kensa will help UK housebuilders and developers transition to a proven, sustainable, low-carbon heating solution in line with the planned phase-out of gas. It will offer home buyers a lower-carbon, more efficient alternative to individual air source heat pumps. The Networked Ground Source Heat Pump solution can also be used to heat and cool any non-domestic buildings within a development. GTC Executive Chairman, Clive Linsdell, said: “A big challenge housebuilders face is additional grid capacity for low carbon technologies. This partnership brings an end-to-end heat, hot water, and cooling solution with the same power requirements as gas-heated homes. Our working with Kensa provides housebuilders and developers reassurance around the quality of installation and equipment, and homeowners 100% peace of mind in relation to its ongoing operation and maintenance.” Transition to electrified heating Kensa Group CEO, Tamsin Lishman said: “We are delighted to partner with GTC to bring this pioneering heating and cooling solution to the UK's housebuilders. Using the heat from the ground beneath our feet, boosted by Kensa’s small and highly efficient ground source heat pumps, homeowners will enjoy comfort and warmth, at low costs." "We’ve been delivering this proven solution at scale for over a decade, providing reliable home heating to thousands of UK homes, and by working with GTC, we look forward to delivering a successful transition to electrified heating.” Key information GTC’s investment in the system means the cost to developers will usually be significantly lower than installing individual air source heat pumps. Homeowners will also benefit from hassle-free heating and hot water, with costs no higher than if they owned an air-source heat pump. Kensa is the UK's largest provider of networked ground source heat pumps, with a multi-award-winning track record of delivering renewable heating and hot water to a mix of retrofit and new-build projects. The constant ground temperature throughout the year, with no seasonal fluctuations, means higher efficiency and lower running costs for customers connected to networked ground source heat pumps. The latest Passiv Smart Thermostat can also be included, reducing customers’ heating bills by up to 30%. There is also the option to add passive cooling to each home, a capability unique to ground-source heat pumps. With minimal running costs, this can mitigate overheating in summer and provide Part O compliance. Due to the high efficiencies of networked ground source heat pumps, no additional electricity demand is required, making it a great solution for sites already ‘in build’ and moving from gas. The Networked Ground Source Heat Pump solution will be Heat Trust registered and be regulated by Ofgem to ensure homeowners worry-free maintenance, repair, and replacement of the ground source heat pump system. New homes connected to the solution will be fitted with either Kensa’s Shoebox or Shoebox NX ground source heat pumps, providing each property with low-cost, low-carbon heating and hot water, with the capability to deliver passive cooling.

Geokey announced a new app integration with Resideo Technologies, a pioneering global provider of solutions for home comfort, energy management, security, and safety, to provide multi-family dwellings access to enhanced smart home comfort and energy efficiency. The integration will transform the way residents take control of their indoor comfort and give building owners a way to monitor energy use and achieve savings. As part of this collaboration, Resideo’s Honeywell Home smart thermostats will be the only thermostats available in Geokey’s mobile access control app. Geokey app Residents can now control their Honeywell Home smart thermostats to create personalized heating and cooling schedules remotely using the Geokey app.  Property owners and chiefs can see insights into energy consumption ways of vacant units Property owners and managers can see insights about energy consumption patterns of vacant units, including reports on how HVAC systems are performing, to enable informed decisions to reduce energy waste. Geokey’s apps protect properties managed by SPM, the pioneering property management company for apartment communities across the U.S. Geokey’s access control software Geokey’s access control software secures properties like the Reverie, a premier property in Belmont, North Carolina. “As a community manager, my experience with Geokey and the thermostat offering has been remarkably seamless and user-friendly. Our residents love that they can effortlessly adjust their home's temperature from anywhere, ensuring optimal comfort without having to physically interact with the thermostat." "The app offers intuitive controls, real-time temperature monitoring, and the ability to set schedules or temperature presets, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency. This integration of technology not only simplifies the management of home climate but also provides a modern, connected living experience that aligns with the needs of today's tech-savvy residents,” said Kelsey Reagan, Senior Community Manager at Reverie Belmont. Water leak detection system Integration also includes access to Resideo's First Alert water leak detection system This integration also includes access to Resideo's First Alert water leak detection system, which notifies residents of a water leak and allows them to remotely shut off the water within the app. “Resideo is building a future where technology works to simplify everyday life,” said Nick Dalsin, Vice President, Systems, Apps and Software at Resideo. “Integrating smart thermostat control and water leak detection into Geokey's access control app empowers residents to effortlessly manage their home’s comfort and gives property managers more tools to protect and care for their dwellings.” Smart home features Geokey, known for access control software, has expanded capabilities within its app to simplify operations and property management for owners and operators – from smart home features to PMS integrations. “Partnering with Resideo allows us to give residents modern-day comfort while also unlocking greater energy savings for property managers,” said Brandon Peterson, CEO of Geokey.

Contractor in Charge, the top provider of start-to-finish 24-7 customer engagement, appointment booking, full-service bookkeeping and controller services for home service contractors, announces a strategic partnership with SF&P Advisors, the pioneer in residential and commercial mechanical, HVAC and plumbing mergers and acquisitions. With the partnership, SF&P Advisors’ clients can leverage the Contractor in Charge’s expertise and proven solutions in addition to SF&P’s valuation, accounting, research, and financial analysis services. customer engagement services Contractor in Charge also provides SF&P clients with unique customer engagement services “We have worked with Contractor in Charge on several transactions that we have closed,” said Fred Silberstein, CEO and president of SF&P Advisors. “We have found they do an excellent job of not only preparing financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) but giving contractors additional tools to help them grow and scale their business.” Contractor in Charge empowers SF&P Advisors’ clients to clarify and strengthen their financials and establish strategies to increase efficiencies and grow top-line revenue. Contractor in Charge also provides SF&P clients with unique customer engagement services and clear insights into business performance. Same quality of service Contractor in Charge allows business owners to cut costs while maintaining the same quality “We’re proud to work with a trusted partner like SF&P Advisors to help contractors maximize the valuation of their business and get the highest rewards for their hard work,” said Lynn Wise, CEO of Contractor in Charge. “Our comprehensive custom services are designed to give professional plumbing, electrical, and HVAC contractors the tools they need to thrive and grow. One way we can do that is to connect them with SF&P, a company with a proven track record of helping contractors reap the benefits of their success.”  With trained industry-experienced employees and integration with a full range of cutting-edge technology platforms, Contractor in Charge allows business owners to cut costs while maintaining the same quality of service. Trusted partner to HVAC contractors Contractor in Charge offers live phone answering, custom greetings, call screening, dispatch, monthly P&Ls, budgets, cash flows and planning, service agreement maintenance, outbound appointment setting, and more. For more than 21 years, SF&P Advisors has served as a trusted partner to residential and commercial HVAC, plumbing and electrical contractors, and other enterprises, with 403 closed transactions and $3.3 billion in closed transaction revenue.

UK: Energy services company - Hometree has raised £250 million of debt financing from Barclays to accelerate green home improvements with 'pay as you save' finance for UK homeowners. The scheme will apply to the installation of solar panels, battery storage systems, and heat pumps through a range of lease and loan products.  Zero-deposit payment plans With the zero-deposit payment plans including system monitoring and repairs, Hometree maintains that homeowners will even be able to 'pay as they save', with the forecasted savings they make through reduced energy bills exceeding their monthly payments. Available at the point of sale through accredited installers, the company expects zero-deposit leases and loans to enable it to install over 28,000 renewable energy systems in the next two years. 

I remember Dr. Dave Bowman from Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" commanding HAL 9000 to open the pod bay doors, and HAL chillingly responds, "I'm sorry, Dave. I'm afraid I can't do that." Fortunately, unlike the fictional HAL," ChatGPT and other GenAI tools remain compliant and helpful, far from refusing commands or leaving us stranded in space. In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) should play a pivotal role in transforming various aspects of our daily lives, using climate tech. One significant domain where AI should make substantial strides is in the realm of smart homes. With the advent of Generative AI (GenAI), the capabilities and possibilities for enhancing smart homes can reach unprecedented levels. New level of personalization Machine learning algorithms can analyze user behavior over time, learning patterns and anticipating needs GenAI brings a new level of personalization to smart homes by understanding and adapting to individual preferences. Machine learning algorithms can analyze user behavior over time, learning patterns and anticipating needs. This allows for the creation of highly personalized automation systems that can adjust lighting, temperature, music, and other home settings based on the occupant's habits and preferences. For example, GenAI can learn when occupants typically wake up and adjust the thermostat and lighting accordingly. It can also integrate with other smart devices to streamline daily routines, such as brewing coffee when it senses the user waking up or adjusting the home security system based on historical usage patterns. Landscape of smart home technology In an era defined by the pressing need to address climate change, one of the most significant contributors to energy consumption is often overlooked—the ubiquitous air conditioner (AC). The key to addressing this issue lies in the synergy of AI and cutting-edge technology. In the ever-evolving landscape of smart home technology, climate tech startups must disrupt the dated and non-smart devices of air conditioners and heat pumps to reduce CO2 emissions and the loads on power grids.  The key to addressing this issue lies in the synergy of AI and cutting-edge technology In mid-January 2024, Sensibo, the pioneering Climate Tech IoT company combining smart heating and cooling devices with a more sustainable world, took a giant leap forward with the integration of an advanced AI Assistant powered by OpenAI's ChatGPT. This innovation represents a significant advancement in Climate Tech IoT, specifically in the realm of smart heating and cooling devices. I’d like to exemplify how Sensibo utilizes Large Language Models (LLMs) to enhance user experiences, conserve energy, and optimize HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) performance. Understanding the AI Assistant's Capabilities Voice-activated assistants have become a staple in smart homes, and GenAI can significantly enhance their capabilities. Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms powered by GenAI enable more nuanced and context-aware interactions. This means users can communicate with their smart homes in a more natural and conversational manner. The integration of GenAI with voice assistants allows for improved comprehension of user commands, pioneering to more accurate responses. Additionally, GenAI can learn from user feedback and adapt over time, making the voice-controlled interface more intuitive and user-friendly. Sensibo AI Assistant Sensibo's AI Assistant is planned to understand complex user bids and hire in telling talks The Sensibo AI Assistant is not just another voice-activated tool. Unlike traditional voice assistants with predefined commands, Sensibo's AI Assistant is designed to understand complex user requests and engage in meaningful conversations. This includes responding to simple commands like "I'm cold" by adjusting the heating to a desired temperature. Moreover, it can handle more intricate tasks, such as creating schedules based on weather forecasts and energy considerations. This functionality not only adds a layer of interactivity but also empowers users to seamlessly integrate AI capabilities into their daily heating and cooling routines. The advanced system goes beyond mere understanding; it empowers the AI Assistant to take direct actions with connected HVAC systems. Integration Timeline: ChatGPT in Sensibo Sensibo raises an enhanced AI assistant, leveraging the capabilities of the ChatGPT The journey began in 2023 when ChatGPT was initially integrated into Sensibo. Initially, the focus was on offering suggested recommendations based on user behavior patterns. This included automated AC schedules tailored to individual preferences and personalized Climate React recommendations.  Building upon this foundation, Sensibo now introduces an enhanced AI assistant, leveraging the capabilities of the ChatGPT Large Language Model. Leveraging AI for Energy Efficiency Traditional heating and cooling devices are notorious for their inefficiency, contributing significantly to global energy consumption and CO2 emissions. OpenAI's innovative technology, driven by the AI Assistant into smart HVAC, aims to revolutionize how users manage their heating and cooling systems. The integration of AI allows users to issue commands to the cloud, which, in turn, controls HVAC devices within their premises. This goes beyond understanding and processing user requests; it translates into taking direct actions that optimize energy consumption. The potential for energy savings is up to 40%, showcasing the transformative impact of AI on AC performance and overall energy bills. The integration of the ChatGPT Large Language Model into AI Assistants marks a significant stride in smart climate technology. The marriage of advanced AI capabilities with climate control systems showcases the potential for sustainable living through energy-efficient HVAC management. As the AI revolution deepens, climate tech companies must embrace these new technologies and research and develop how they can benefit the users and our climate.

Using air conditioners and electric fans to stay cool accounts for nearly 20% of the total electricity used in buildings around the world, according to a report from the International Energy Agency. hybrid work model As a unique mix of key factors, such as the adoption of the hybrid work model and escalating heatwaves in certain regions of the United States keep people indoors for longer periods, this 20% share represents an increasingly costly line item on household budgets. Those within the market are responding by seeking out products that can help them control climates more efficiently. Smart thermostats and inverters Markets for smart thermostats and inverter HVAC controllers are clear illustrations of in-demand technology Given what the industry is experiencing, the markets for smart thermostats and inverter HVAC controllers, which are clear illustrations of in-demand technology, are experiencing growth. But as they do, are the technologies growing together or growing apart? Rapid Growth in Both Markets  Discounts and incentives The smart thermostat market has expanded steadily in recent years, with that growth projected to continue through the 2020s in part due to savings of up to 8% on energy bills homeowners can recoup with the best smart thermostats. The sleek design and digital interface of modern smart thermostats, coupled with the increased control capabilities provided by mobile applications, seem to offer homeowners unprecedented control over their indoor climate. Moreover, the growing popularity of rebate programs providing discounts and incentives is making these solutions even more attractive. Real-time heating/cooling needs with Inverter/VRF Inverter/VRF HVAC systems are capable of adjusting the frequency of the compressor precisely Concurrently, the market for Inverter/VRF HVAC control systems is also expanding. It is estimated that the global Inverter/VRF market will grow from USD $17.6 billion (2020) to $31.9 billion (2025) at a CAGR of 12.7%, with the US identified as the fastest-growing Inverter/VRF market. Unlike their single-speed system counterparts which operate on an on/off or all-or-nothing dichotomy, Inverter/VRF HVAC systems are capable of adjusting the frequency of the compressor to precisely match the real-time heating/cooling needs of an environment. By regulating the fan speed and airflow, Inverter/VRF systems are extremely efficient at keeping an environment at a precisely set temperature.  Enhanced HVAC system performance or not? Given the rapidly expanding markets, one might think that the easy interface of the current smartest thermostats and the operational efficiency of the best Inverter/VRF HVAC controllers could combine to create an exceptionally comfortable and cost-efficient experience for homeowners, and an easily interoperable install for HVAC pros. However, the question remains: have these devices genuinely enhanced HVAC system performance in terms of accuracy, consistency, and efficiency? More importantly, have they made living spaces more comfortable? Have these growing markets and technological advancements made life easier for industry pros?  Persistent and pervasive incompatibility This communication breakdown leads to issues such as set temperature variance, inefficient operation Many are surprised to discover that the response to these important queries is frequently negative and “no”, due to a persistent and pervasive incompatibility between smart thermostats and Inverter/ VRF HVAC controllers. It is this incompatibility that ultimately negates the advanced features and intelligence of each product. This communication breakdown leads to issues such as set temperature variance, inefficient operation, and energy consumption.  Confronting the Critical Interoperability Challenges Ideally, the current smart thermostats, and the benefits they bring such as user-friendly interfaces, would integrate flawlessly with high-efficiency Inverter/VRF HVAC systems, enhancing comfort and cost-efficiency while simplifying installation for HVAC professionals. Unfortunately, this ideal scenario is elusive. The core problem stems from these technologies developing and evolving separately, and in isolated environments. Inadequate two-way communication While individual support for certain protocols may exist, they fail to communicate complex instructions effectively While individual support for certain protocols may exist, they fail to communicate complex instructions effectively due to inadequate two-way communication. When a smart thermostat is improperly paired with an intelligent Inverter/VRF HVAC system, the resulting communication breakdown forces the HVAC system to revert back to single-speed operations, completely undermining its full potential, and sophisticated features. Inefficiency and discomfort Given its prevalence, what does this incompatibility mean for HVAC professionals and their clients? Consider a scenario where a user desires to adjust the indoor temperature to 68°F via a smart thermostat. Since the Inverter/VRF unit can only be adjusted by means of its own communication protocol, and the output of the smart thermostat is a dry contact closure, the 68°F would never be properly relayed to the air conditioner. In other words, the smart thermostat does not provide information on how hard the system is working or the deviation of the current temperature from the desired set point. As a result, the system cannot modulate its output to precisely match the temperature needs of an environment, and the air handling unit within the system is forced to always operate at high speeds creating inefficiency and discomfort.  On-and-off mode Homeowners miss out on the benefits of their investment, and installers find themselves in the predicament Moreover, this style of operation is quite noisy, as the HVAC system drones on at full capacity every time it is reactivated. This on-and-off mode of operation consumes more energy, comparable to stop-and-start gas-guzzling city driving versus smooth highway cruising. Both homeowners and installers bear the brunt of these drawbacks, homeowners miss out on the benefits of their investment, and installers find themselves in the predicament of either explaining this intricate issue or spending valuable time troubleshooting. What Can Be Done to Address Incompatibility?  While this convergence of technology and home comfort presents significant potential and profound challenges, this situation is not without a solution. The industry’s most advanced smart thermostats and efficient Inverter/VRF HVAC controllers both possess impressive capabilities, but the key to success lies in improving their ability to fluently exchange commands and information.  Translator between smart thermostat and Inverter/VRF These remarkable devices contain the unit's protocols, deftly translating the commands of the smart thermostat Thankfully, there are solutions within the market from industry pioneers that act as a "translator" between the smart thermostat and the Inverter/VRF unit. These remarkable devices contain the unit's protocols, deftly translating the commands of the smart thermostat, creating a seamless conduit of communication. Enhancing interoperability Enhancing interoperability is a prevailing trend across the smart home sector, and it is imperative the HVAC industry works to align with this trend. By embracing such changes, HVAC professionals can offer unparalleled value and functionality to their clients while simultaneously reducing installation complexities. This paradigm shift offers a unique opportunity to alleviate their challenges while providing customers with extraordinary value and performance from their HVAC systems. 

AI (Artificial Intelligence) is a smart buildings’ biggest ally. Without it, a building could hardly be classed as smart. For building owners and managers, AI is imperative to create a secure and comfortable experience for their occupants every day. What a building platform should do is gather data from various sources from the building management system and other smart technologies, to gather it all in one place. The data should then be fed into a flexible, scalable cloud-based platform that stores it securely and standardizes the data. However, that still doesn’t make it a smart building. Building platforms integration with built-in AI Truly smart buildings are made, when building platforms are integrated with built-in AI. These technologies facilitate integration and enhanced intelligence, across a building or estate, all the while improving building operation for its occupants. They can also monitor building and equipment performance, and factor in building system data, and external input, including weather and traffic. Ultimately, this allows for Machine Learning to constantly monitor building spaces and when systems need to be optimized. This allows for increased building efficiency and lowered costs, with limited human intervention. AI offers predictive analysis in HVAC AI can also apply predictive analysis in HVAC, lighting and appliances, as well as fault detection and diagnosis AI can also apply predictive analysis in HVAC, lighting and appliances, as well as fault detection and diagnosis. Any potential issues can then be addressed, prior to something serious happening and an engineer can be sent out to fix it, with the right part, the first time itself. For rooms that aren’t in use, energy-efficiency savings can be made easily and effectively, by reducing energy consumption in those areas. AI uses sensors to monitor room occupancy and makes real-time decisions, based on the insights. Occupants can then have the optimal levels of ventilation, temperature and light for the rooms they are in, but precious resources can be saved in the rooms that aren’t. All in all, this helps both the buildings bottom line and the planet. The Personal Benefits of AI When it comes to smart building technologies, the most important aspect is that the technologies work exactly how they need to. This is why AI is such a useful tool, as every Building Manager, Operations Executive, or Health and Safety Officer can plug into the platform, and make decisions based on real-time data. This comes from creating a scalable platform in the Cloud, helping monitor and action everything from HVAC to access control, to occupant experience to fire detection. However, it’s not just those people who are responsible for the building’s operations, can get hands-on experience with AI. Many smart buildings now put their technology in the hands of each occupant, including office workers, teachers, CEOs, or nurses. Smartphone apps, unique to your building or estate, can help guide visitors from A to B, book meeting rooms or operating suites, or inform maintenance, when something goes wrong, all from the palm of their hand. AI-enabled security cameras To access buildings, users can present their access control credentials, in the form of a card or pin To access buildings, users can present their access control credentials, in the form of a card or pin, as they traditionally have, but then face a camera to further verify their identity. These cameras use AI algorithms to identify users with very high confidence and the combination of facial recognition, and traditional card access provides a higher level of assurance for secure access, while minimizing disruption for the users. Importance of utilizing the right AI technologies Buildings that utilize the right AI technologies in the right ways can be truly transformed. For building management businesses, it can closely align them to a tenant organization’s business and deliver the experiences occupants need and want. In turn, they benefit their own business, both financially and operationally. Making buildings smarter – or smart in general – will help overcome some of our most prevalent challenges. In particular, the aggressive net-zero and sustainability targets that businesses have promised to reach. For most, the issue isn’t with having the data, but rather with actioning the insights to see real change. With AI, it becomes possible, and we can start to see real changes in our buildings.

An expansive construction boom is underway in Saudi Arabia, amplified by the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative promoting global engagement, enhanced quality of life, and economic diversification beyond petroleum. Mega-projects pioneering the way include The Line, a linear smart city that is only 200 meters (220 yards) wide, towers 500 meters (550 yards) above sea level, and stretches 170 kilometers (105 miles) from the Neom 26,500-square-kilometer (10,200 sq. miles) urban area across desert valleys to the Red Sea.  sports and tourism investment An unprecedented investment also includes sports and tourism and has attracted the attention of major players in the construction industry, who are gathering at the Big 5 Construct Saudi exhibition in Riyadh. The event enables attendees to connect with government representatives and other visitors involved in Saudi Arabia’s gigantic construction projects.  HVAC systems HVAC systems play a major role in the construction boom, including the construction of new district cooling plants Given the hot climate, HVAC systems play a major role in the construction boom, including the construction of new district cooling plants and an enormous number of data centers, which require extensive cooling systems to operate. HVAC R Expo is one of the “Big 5” categories at the exhibition, enabling companies access to top contractors, project managers, distributors, and engineers involved in growth opportunities across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.  Victaulic’s grooved solutions Victaulic, the mechanical pipe joining specialist, is a major supplier playing a role in the Saudi expansion, which also includes a future Vision 2040 plan that will begin in 2027. Active in the Saudi market for 25 years, Victaulic’s grooved solutions are used throughout the burgeoning Saudi construction industry, including in the commercial, fire protection, water, oil and gas, and mining sectors.  multitude of applications Victaulic’s prefabrication and modularization services accelerate the installation process even further In the HVAC sector specifically, Victaulic solutions serve a multitude of applications from district cooling to data centers to cooling systems for large skyscrapers. Victaulic’s grooved couplings can be installed quicker than traditional welded or flanged joints and without specialist labor. By reducing the work carried out on the job site, Victaulic’s prefabrication and modularization services accelerate the installation process even further. This is important for keeping up with the fast pace of construction projects in Saudi Arabia while ensuring the highest quality and reliability.  Sustainability Sustainability is another priority for Vision 2030 projects in the Kingdom. Because there is no welding required to join pipes with Victaulic’s technology, energy consumption and emissions are significantly reduced during the installation process. The couplings themselves are made from 98% recycled content in electric induction furnaces that emit 85% less CO2 per ton than a traditional blast equivalent. And they are infinitely reconfigurable, reusable, and recyclable as buildings are extended or repurposed in the future.  one-stop solution provider Cooling such a tall building involves multiple chiller stations connected with building riser solutions (pipes) At the Big 5 event, Victaulic aims to showcase its abilities as a one-stop solution provider for pipe joining. However, given the raft of high-rise construction in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Riyadh and Jeddah, cooling systems for tall buildings will naturally be in focus. For example, the Jeddah Tower, currently under construction, will be 1 kilometer (3,280 feet) tall and become the tallest building in the world when it is completed. Cooling such a tall building involves multiple chiller stations connected with building riser solutions (pipes) that run the entire span of the building. use of expansion joints Traditionally, in a tall building, thermal expansion and contraction require the use of expansion joints that accommodate the impact of changing temperatures on the pipes. Victaulic’s couplings, however, are inherently flexible to a degree, which eliminates the need for space-consuming expansion loops or expansion joints that can fatigue over time. This improves the reliability of the system as well as keeping shafts as narrow as possible to maximize sellable floor space.  investment focus Continuing investment by banks and trust funds in key Saudi projects encourages Victaulic Continuing investment by banks and trust funds in key Saudi projects encourages Victaulic to continue its commitment to the region. “This region has committed to continuous investment,” says Zeyd Ammoura, Victaulic Division Manager for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. “These projects translate into a massive need for products, and they have a vision as more investment focuses on the region. Our vision is to walk parallel hand-in-hand with the Saudi 2030 vision.” Reason for Big 5 exhibition participation “They need a lot of data centers, and they need a lot of district cooling plants,” adds Ammoura, “so that's also something that is getting a lot of our attention. And that's one of the major reasons we are going to be participating in the Big 5 exhibition.” While historically population centers in Saudi Arabia were mostly concentrated, the new vision includes development throughout the large country including areas where infrastructure did not previously exist and must be created. Thousands of new cooling systems will be needed for the new buildings, data centers, stadiums, and other facilities. Infrastructure development Investment is also being made to expand the infrastructure to accommodate future waves of construction In addition to near-term construction projects, investment is also being made to expand the infrastructure to accommodate future waves of construction. “They are building now to serve expanded projects in the future,” says Ammoura. “Saudi Arabia is our top priority for the next five to 10 years in the region.” Air conditioning (AC) usage A stadium, planned as part of The Line, will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and other big events. With scorching summers and limited natural cooling, Saudi Arabia has the highest air conditioning (AC) usage globally. This intense cooling demand accounts for nearly 50% of the country's annual electricity consumption, reaching 70% during peak periods. These factors drive the need for district cooling systems, which distribute cooling capacity in the form of chilled water or other medium from a central source to multiple buildings through a network of underground pipes for use in space and process cooling.  Reducing fossil fuel use Victaulic is furnishing a large exhibition booth at the Big 5 event to highlight their technical solutions Saudi Arabia is seeking to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels for energy production, and district cooling systems can be powered by renewable energy sources like solar, further contributing to sustainability.  In addition to promoting its profile at Big 5 Construct Saudi, Victaulic is increasing its number of local employees and is looking into opening a local facility in the area to support the big growth in business. Victaulic is furnishing a large exhibition booth at the Big 5 event to highlight their technical solutions. piping and flow control systems Ammoura says that Victaulic’s capabilities expand beyond the manufacture of piping and flow control systems. The company also pledges to be a delivery partner and engineering company that builds solutions. “We help to design and optimize the project and help to build better construction,” says Ammoura. Victaulic has participated in many Saudi district cooling plants so far and plans to continue to be a part of building engineering and construction capacity.  BIM (building information modeling) Victaulic utilizes BIM to provide 3D visualization of systems before they are built and installed Victaulic utilizes BIM (building information modeling) to provide 3D visualization of systems before they are built and installed. The company’s virtual design and construction department works with companies and allows customers to “walk through a project” virtually and optimize design and innovation, thus taking out the guesswork before a needed change becomes overly expensive and delays the project.  reassurance and reliability “The challenges in any project cycle, regardless of scale, means owners, general contractors, and construction teams require reassurance and reliability from designated partners, and Victaulic has expanded offerings to become a comprehensive one-stop solutions provider, including design, fabrication, spooling, and quality control." "We are committed to being a partner for our customers and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s construction boom as efficiently, reliably, and sustainably as possible,” Ammoura says.

Data-driven control of centralized home and building HVAC systems is helping to minimize energy usage, lessen sustainability concerns, and provide greater levels of comfort for lower costs. However, room air conditioners are globally the fastest growing segment, each operating independently with the aid of a remote control. How can the lessons and capabilities of data-driven control systems be applied to the world of room air conditioners?  Sensibo is looking to do just that. Sensibo aims to be the brains of an indoor climate system, using data to provide the best comfort, energy efficiency and air quality to every home and office. The company’s systems connect to ACs and may be remote-controlled via a mobile app, along with full integration with Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri, and Apple HomeKit. HVAC systems The backgrounds of Sensibo founders Ran Roth and Omer Inbar are not in the HVAC market. Coming from the world of data and artificial intelligence (AI), they were looking for an industry that could benefit from data more than it was. Constituting a quarter to a third of the energy used by humanity and representing substantial sustainability challenges, the HVAC market had the potential to benefit greatly from an approach using data, computational power, and machine learning. Computational power to leverage the data points into knowledge of how to control the HVAC systems In fact, Ran Roth, Sensibo’s CEO and co-founder, says there were two major elements previously missing from how HVAC systems were controlled. The missing elements were data points, provided by various sensors and other information, and computational power to leverage the data points into knowledge of how to control the HVAC systems. “The combination of computation power in the cloud and more data from systems can save a lot of energy, 20% on average,” says Roth. Sensibo control systems Emerging control systems such as Nest, Ecobee, and Emerson’s Sensi provide high levels of control for centralized HVAC systems, but what about the 87% of systems that use room air conditioners? How can new technologies address this fastest-growing market segment? Sensibo’s low-power solution controls any room air conditioner that uses a remote control and is among the easiest systems to install for do-it-yourself homeowners. Some 99% of users install the units themselves. Sensibo control systems communicate using the infrared remote-control protocols of the 30,000 or so available models of room air conditioners. The company mapped out more than 1,000 protocols used by various models, and “reverse-engineered” them to be controlled by the system, a process that took about three years. The technology is also compatible with variable refrigerant flow (VRF) and mini-split ductless systems – basically any system that uses a remote control. Sensibo’s mobile application Sensibo’s mobile application suggests recommendations based on a user’s behavior patterns In the area of artificial intelligence (AI), Sensibo recently integrated OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its smart AC products. The advanced language model uses a deep learning architecture called transformers. For the first stage of integration, Sensibo’s mobile application suggests recommendations based on a user’s behavior patterns, such as an automated AC schedule based on the customer behavior of the user and climate react personal recommendations.  “Since we come from the field of AI, we are very excited about the recent developments (regarding ChatGPT),” says Roth. “There is a lot of hype, but there are also results beyond the hype. We were amazed by what it could do.” Traditional approaches Sensibo is using the new technology to fine-tune products and to improve how they process results, with more accuracy and better cost-effectiveness. “With Chat GPT, you get both good results, and you can understand why,” says Roth. The company expects to see additional uses for the technology over time. Traditional approaches to analyzing AC data require a lot of fine-tuning in terms of signal processes. Advanced language models and other new technologies make it easier to develop a smart system at scale. “We can analyze data in new ways and come up with new answers and fewer customizations,” says Roth. “It’s a game changer.” Environmental elements Sensibo collects more than a billion data points a day from more than a million unique uses Sensibo systems collect more than a billion data points a day from more than a million unique uses by customers. The resulting data, including factors such as humidity and temperature, and air quality elements such as volatile organic compounds and carbon dioxide, enables computations that allow the system to control environmental elements more precisely. The system also considers factors such as local weather conditions based on geolocation, and presence sensors that let the system know if a home or room is occupied. “We found that around 37% of people use a totally incorrect temperature on (their thermostat setting),” says Roth. “Because of various circumstances they may never reach the target temperature and then you spend more and more energy in an ineffective way.” The system also analyzes air quality indoors versus outside and may advise a user to open a window for greater ventilation, for example. Sensibo’s technology Interfaces and notifications are provided through a smartphone, and the system’s application programming interface (API) enables integration with 100 home automation systems and with programs of utility companies, which might subsidize or pay for the unit. Directing power usage to non-peak hours, the system saves money for consumers and helps utility companies shift usage patterns to be the most cost-effective. “If a house is insulated, you can pre-cool before you arrive home from work (in a non-peak period) for less money,” says Roth. Sensibo’s technology is not compatible with smart thermostats. Currently, Sensibo sells mostly through Amazon and the company website Currently, Sensibo sells mostly through Amazon and the company website. They are looking to expand their distribution in big-box stores and to work with professional HVAC installers and trade distribution. “It’s a product people love,” says Roth, who urges interested HVAC installers to contact the company through their website. Customer Involvement A benefit of the product is greater customer involvement in how their AC system operates. They might use the app several times a day, which provides greater potential to connect and, possibly, more service and maintenance opportunities for HVAC professionals. “Part of our philosophy is that indoor climate is not just about heating and cooling,” says Roth. “The gases around us are more than just how we feel. We see air quality as part of the same system. Currently air quality systems are disconnected from the heating and cooling systems, but they should be the same systems.”

The 486,805 square feet of exhibit space at AHR Expo 2023 in Atlanta provided clear evidence of how technology innovation in HVAC has accelerated in the last decade. Change and progress were everywhere among the 1,779 exhibitors, including 425 international exhibits. HVAC systems on display New electronic tools, cloud-based solutions, higher efficiency ratings, mini-split systems, new regulations, and new control strategies are driving product development enabling HVAC systems to deliver new solutions for customers. The 42,794 attendees at AHR Expo 2023 took notice. Heat pumps continue to lead product innovation, with many systems targeting better performance in colder climates. Combination systems that incorporate water heating along with ambient heating and cooling are also more common. solutions rather than equipment More than one exhibitor at AHR Expo 2023 noted that their emphasis this year is on “solutions rather than equipment.” It’s no longer just about products, or even about how things work. Rather, it’s about how they work together, and what problem(s) they can solve. Digital systems Digital systems are higher-profile this year than ever, somewhat supplanting the dominance of large equipment displays of years past. Instead of showing the big equipment, some exhibitors embraced schematics and animated simulations to demonstrate their operation on a video screen. Virtual displays also highlighted the operation of electronic control systems and other digital elements of the latest HVAC systems. Regulations, positive economic winds Regulations are ensuring a continuing demand for new equipment, and tax incentives are creating new business growth An economic slowdown is a possibility later in 2023, according to economists, but there was little concern evident at AHR Expo. Exemplifying an industry in the process of reinventing itself, the show reflected positive economic winds that will make HVAC more lucrative than ever in the coming years. Regulations are ensuring a continuing demand for new equipment, and tax incentives (such as those in the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act) are creating new business growth. Several exhibitors helpfully highlighted which of their products are eligible for tax incentives. new sustainable HVAC technologies As part of the broader trend of digital transformation in the built environment, HVAC is interfacing with building systems in new ways. As a major player in decarbonization, new HVAC technologies will lead the way to a more sustainable future. IAQ and decarbonization HVAC is also at the center of concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ) that follow a worldwide pandemic. “IAQ and decarbonization are the two most important trends in the built environment and will remain so for decades to come,” says David Budzinski, President, of Global Residential & Light Commercial at Johnson Controls.   electronic offerings An integration tool called NODE-Red enables various IoT sensors to be configured virtually into the system An example of electronic offerings at AHR was Delta Controls’ Red5 room controller which combines HVAC controls with Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, enabling more devices to interoperate and communicate in a building system. An integration tool called NODE-Red enables various IoT sensors to be configured virtually into the system. Also, the O3 sensor detects motion to assess the number of room occupants without using video (less intrusive); it also measures humidity, temperature, sound, light intensity, etc. AIM Act With Jan. 1, 2025, looming for compliance with the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act to phase out the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), there is still a lot of work to do. A proposed rule prohibits the manufacture of equipment containing HFCs by Jan. 1, 2025.   Energy transition “If all of our work together, whether manufacturers, contractors, or distributors, we can keep this conversation front and center and be ready for the transition,” says Brandon Marshall, Chemours’ North American Marketing Manager for Thermal & Specialized Solutions. “If we work together, we can navigate the change, and training is a key piece of it.” Best practices Becoming better informed enables everyone to understand and get comfortable with the solutions" Some new refrigerants are rated “mildly flammable.” Although this is a consideration, it should not be a major concern, says Marshall.  “Best practices can ensure you are managing the product safely, and becoming better informed enables everyone to understand and get comfortable with the solutions.” awareness Chemours conducts webinars, publishes documents, and makes updates available about the refrigerant transition. “We have to pay attention to the regulatory environment,” says Marshall. “Jan. 1, 2025, is coming fast.” More awareness is needed as the industry works toward the deadline. Contractors should also beware of low-quality or counterfeit refrigerant products, says Marshall. skilled labor shortage The skilled labor shortage in HVAC and other trades was another theme at AHR 2023. The labor shortage increases the need for training. “If you want to grow your business 20 to 30%, you should grow your people that much both the number of people and the knowledge of staff,” says Dan Clapper, Market Director, Interplay Learning. He adds that a company should devote up to 10% per week to training. Interplay Learning’s interactive, 3D simulation-based training platform is “as close to on-the-job training as you can get.” In effect, the simulations provide “before-the-job training.” Training investments Another training company, BDR (Business Development Resources), notes that their clients demonstrate 38% higher revenue per employee and 81% higher gross profit per employee. Revenue per service truck increases to $40,000 from the industry average of $12,000 after investments in training, says BDR, which provides in-person classes. Another exhibitor, XOi Technologies offers a smartphone app that provides expertise to lesser-trained HVAC installers. Their slogan is “We’re your journeyman on every job.” Journeyman is the brand name of the helpful app.

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.”

A new £37 million residential development in Sheffield, United Kingdom (UK) is benefiting from sustainable and efficient heating, courtesy of Taconova’s market-renowned Heat Interface Units (HIUs). The Ironworks Situated on Scotland Street, the Ironworks has been developed by Rise Homes and brings much-needed quality rented accommodation to Sheffield. Building work began in January 2021 on the site of the former Queens Hotel, and in September 2023, Rise Homes and Taconova were joined by the Mayor of Sheffield to open the new 12-storey Ironworks building. Inside The Ironworks This development encompasses 229 furnished apartments, comprising 144 one-bedroom, 80 two-bedroom, and 5 two-bedroom duplex units. A focus on sustainability is evident, with each unit connected to the building’s communal biomass boiler-powered heating system. The Heating System The HIUs ensure efficient and consistent heating and domestic hot water provision Water heated by the basement biomass boiler circulates through the building’s risers and into the Heat Interface Unit (HIU) in each of the 229 apartments. The HIUs ensure efficient and consistent heating and domestic hot water provision, maintaining optimal temperature and flow for the residents. TacoTherm H 3000E: The Core of Heating Each flat features a TacoTherm H 3000E Heat Interface Unit. This HIU is an electronically controlled, compact, and connection-ready all-in-one unit that offers indirect heat transfer for heating and domestic hot water. The 229 HIUs had to be supplied, installed, and commissioned within a three-month window. Taconova delivered 50 HIUs per week, and the contractor installed them in the utility cupboard of each apartment. TacoTherm H 3000E offers high efficiency The TacoTherm H 3000E has been designed specifically for multi-story residential buildings and provides an operating pressure of 6 bar. It has an operating temperature of 90°C and generates hot water temperatures of up to 60°C. The TacoTherm H 3000E is highly efficient and has an overall Volume Weighted Average Return Temperature (VWART) figure of 26, making it a market leader – as independently tested by BESA (Building Engineering Services Association). More than just hardware One of the standout benefits of opting for an electronically controlled HIU is the availability of data One of the standout benefits of opting for an electronically controlled HIU is the availability of data. The initial specification for this project was for Heat Interface Units (HIUs) only. However, the TacoTherm H 3000E offers much more than just hardware. The HIU has a smart meter, which enables remote monitoring and analysis of heat consumption. The meter gathers information from across the network, from the plant room to the HIU. System efficiency can be tracked With this data, the system's efficiency can be tracked, and improvements may be made based on the information. Likewise, if there are any inefficiencies or faults, these can be identified, pinpointed, and rectified quickly. The Ironworks management chose to also install the suggested smart heating controls and offer the controls to the residents through a smartphone or tablet app. These controls mean heating can be switched on or off remotely, potentially saving energy. Rigorous Quality Assurance Acceptance Test: Good Performance Before the project was completed, Taconova conducted testing on each HIU. This service formed part of the Taconova’s commitment to ensuring the HIUs function to the correct specification. The testing analyzed the operating pressure, temperature, and hot water temperatures in each apartment and measured the overall efficiency of the heating system during a 48-hour period. The results were then measured against set parameters. After Taconova’s engineers had completed the adjustments and remedial work, the tests were conducted again. Improvements were evident and the scheme was performing according to the set design parameters and achieved overall network compliance. On-going Monitoring for Sustainable Living Taconova will continue to monitor and improve the heating system for the lifetime of the scheme As part of its commitment to customer service and sustainability, Taconova will continue to monitor and improve the heating system for the lifetime of the scheme. It is well documented that the efficiency of a newly built property drops substantially after the first 12-month operation, so it's important to monitor the efficiency of the whole heating system beyond the initial year. The ongoing monitoring provides complete oversight of the whole system, not just the HIUs. Therefore, it is possible to recommend improvements to ensure that the network remains at the optimum efficiency level. For example, adjusting the plant room temperature during the summer and winter can optimize the system and improve efficiency. As well as providing constant monitoring and improvement suggestions, Taconova will also support Ironworks with annual servicing of the HIUs, as part of the service level agreement. A Greener Future Exciting plans for the future reveal that things could get even greener if the Ironworks development can join the Sheffield City District Heating Network. This district heating network is one of the largest city heat networks in the UK and currently supplies 2,800 homes and 140 commercial buildings, saving 21,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The focal point of the network is the city’s incinerator which burns 120,000 tons of municipal waste each year, producing up to 60MW of thermal energy. With an expansion and improvement to the network, it is hoped that the Ironworks will be able to benefit from the waste heat generated from Sheffield's incinerator. Enhancing the building’s green credentials The indirect TacoTherm H 3000E HIU is future-ready and will seamlessly transition to the heat network Joining the network will mean the Ironworks can replace the biomass boiler and utilize waste heat from the network, further enhancing the building’s green credentials. The indirect TacoTherm H 3000E HIU is future-ready and will seamlessly transition to the heat network, and deliver efficient heating to the residents in the building. HIU’s pre-fitted heat meter Thanks to the HIU’s pre-fitted heat meter, the residents’ heat consumption will be calculated based on what they use. Switching to the heat network will mean a lower heating tariff compared to the biomass boiler, so residents’ energy bills will also be lower. Innovative heating solutions like Taconova’s indirect TacoTherm H 3000E HIUs are part of the company’s mission to offer reliable, low-maintenance, and highly efficient heating solutions that save customers time, effort, and money.

Musanadah Facilities Management, a full-service facilities management provider based in Saudi Arabia announced its partnership with Facilio to deploy the property operations firm’s Connected CaFM platform across its multi-site client portfolio. cloud platform Musanadah will use the cloud platform to customize and streamline complex workflows to ensure a seamless workforce experience and gain a single-pane glass view of its entire portfolio operations.  The collaboration signifies Musanadah’s commitment to simplicity and effectiveness in facilities management, paving the way for enhanced operational capabilities and seamless processes. tech-driven real estate ecosystem With ambitious mega projects such as Neom, the Kingdom is setting new benchmarks for smart city initiatives Real estate operators and owners in Saudi Arabia are swiftly embracing IoT and cloud software to modernize and transform the landscape of the building. With ambitious mega projects such as Neom, the Kingdom is setting new benchmarks for smart city initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to creating a modern and tech-driven real estate ecosystem in the next couple of years. operational efficiency “With increasing globalization, more Saudi-based real estate operators are seeking consistent, world-class service delivery benchmarked to international standards from facility management companies. This can be made possible only with highly trained staff combined with the right technology,” said Vijayshankar Kavasseri, Operations Director at Musanadah Facilities Management. "The partnership with Facilio comes at a time when we are poised for rapid expansion across the region, and work on increasing our operational efficiencies across service lines."  user-friendly interface "The user-friendly interface and seamless mobility which Facilio’s Connected CaFM platform offers will help our technicians and service staff to deliver world-class IFM services across multi-site portfolios." “Real estate in Saudi Arabia is booming with infrastructure projects. Musanadah in Saudi Arabia is leading the charge by embracing a Connected CaFM approach. There's a critical need for cloud-based solutions to elevate operations, and we're thrilled to support this shift, connecting systems, people, and processes for enhanced experiences and service delivery,” said Prabhu Ramachandran, CEO of Facilio. unified ecosystem Integrated FM service providers such as CIT Group, Quality Facility Management (QFM), and Q3 Services have made Facilio’s Connected CaFM their primary platform for portfolio-wide O&M, after moving away from legacy systems and multiple point solutions. Serving as a unified ecosystem for managing both in-house and contracted operations, the platform centralized all processes, including property maintenance, client engagement, vendor management, asset performance monitoring, and reporting processes, delivering complete visibility and control.

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

CIT Group Ltd, a facility management service provider headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi, has chosen Facilio’s Connected CaFM software platform to digitally transform the facilities at the Al Jadidah site.  The company successfully digitized end-to-end O&M processes, and achieved QHSE audit and compliance readiness in a record three weeks, making this the fastest and most seamless Computer-aided Facility Management (CaFM) deployment in the region to date. streamlined and platform-centric Monitored by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the Al Jadidah site is a cultural hub and home to restaurants, shops, art exhibitions, and many entertainment options. CIT Group Ltd envisioned a more streamlined and platform-centric approach to O&M CIT Group Ltd, which manages the site’s operations & facilities, envisioned a more streamlined and platform-centric approach to O&M. challenges Speaking on the occasion, Naser Gulaid, Executive Chairman at CIT Group Ltd said, "Our primary objective for the Al Jadidah project was to enhance the visitor experience and ensure smooth operations without disrupting tenants' businesses." He adds, "Typically, CaFM deployments of this scale take months due to evolving requirements and the lack of adaptable tools to support dynamic operations." solution: Facilio's platform Naser Gulaid continues, "We chose Facilio for its exceptional flexibility, user-friendliness, and seamless integration with third-party systems. Facilio's platform offered us a simplified approach to digitizing end-to-end operations, consolidating data from diverse sources, and providing centralized operational visibility all in one place." He further stated, "It effortlessly handles KPI reporting and audit-readiness, which was tedious with legacy systems. We're pleased with the results of the implementation and are in the process of rolling out Facilio’s platform in five other sites as well." cloud-based solutions Facilio's CEO, Prabhu Ramachandran, said, "Real estate in Saudi Arabia is experiencing a significant boom driven by massive infrastructure & cultural projects." He adds, "There is a critical need for real estate operators & FM service providers in the Kingdom to upend their current operations & maintenance tech stack and embrace cloud-based solutions to accelerate the business potential of the region and deliver best-in-class experiences. The answer to this is a unified platform approach to operations that meaningfully connects systems, people, and processes." Connected CaFM approach Prabhu Ramachandran continues, "We are happy to see CIT Group Ltd leading the way in Saudi and front-ending the transition to a Connected CaFM approach." Together, CIT Group Ltd. and Facilio have demonstrated the power of innovation and collaboration, revolutionizing facility management and setting new industry standards.

Proptech company - Facilio has announced that Kitopi, a tech-powered, multi-brand restaurant, has chosen Facilio’s Connected CaFM platform to centrally manage & optimize its kitchen facilities ensuring seamless and uninterrupted service to its customers. Kitopi, one of the few unicorns to emerge out of the MENA region, required a robust, unified platform to power its expansion across regions, and chose Facilio’s reimagined Connected CaFM/CMMS solution to future-proof its kitchen facilities. Kitopi Kitopi has rapidly expanded its operations to over 200 kitchens across 5 countries Kitopi has rapidly expanded its operations to over 200 kitchens across 5 countries, disrupting the traditional restaurant industry with its innovative multi-brand kitchen model. The company operates in a highly competitive market and needs a unified O&M platform to efficiently manage inventory, maintenance, and compliance. With Facilio’s help, Kitopi can focus on growing its customer base with minimal resources dedicated to managing end-to-end operations. Challenges faced by Kitopi Speaking on this occasion, Dario Wolfsen, Senior Director of Property at Kitopi, said, "As a multi-brand restaurant company operating a variety of kitchens, we need to control many different aspects to ensure the upkeep of our properties to deliver a joyful experience for our customers." He adds, "Generally, for the organization wanting insight into key areas of operation, it requires a lot of manual lever-pulling or chasing teams to build a tableau or power BI-style report." real-time operational visibility Dario Wolfsen continues, "We chose Facilio over other solutions for its ability to offer real-time operational visibility. The platform’s planned and predictive maintenance capabilities help us reduce downtime, keep opex costs in check, and ensure business continuity across outlets - which supports us as we continue to expand our operations." Facilio's CEO, Prabhu Ramachandran, said, "As an ambitious and innovative business, Kitopi has a real opportunity to front-end the digital transformation movement in the food industry. They have embraced the Connected CaFM approach because it enables them to rapidly meet the needs of their customers." workflow automation Prabhu Ramachandran adds, "Facilio’s Connected CaFM platform automates operational workflows across Kitopi outlets while centrally monitoring adherence to regulatory compliances. Facilio’s workflow automation is a powerful feature that lets us control quote to PO processes, track contract renewals, manage approvals, and more." He continues, "All stakeholders can access full context, from asset to inventory to quotes and permits on one unified platform. We are confident that together we can raise efficiencies exponentially for Kitopi, making it a leader in its space." Facilio's Connected CaFM Facilio's Connected CaFM enables a single pane of glass for property owners/operators Facilio's Connected CaFM enables a single pane of glass for property owners/operators to manage their portfolio-wide operations and maintenance. For Kitopi, this means automation & scale to support uninterrupted, best-in-class services across their outlets, critical factors for a business expanding at the scale and speed of Kitopi. Key features Enables end-to-end operational visibility by unifying portfolio operations. Executives can review vendor performance, effectively plan budgets, and make informed operational decisions. Democratizes information access, improves internal collaboration, and elevates end-user experiences using multi-stakeholder engagement. Automates workflows to simplify operations and save time. Enables interoperability, solving the most common integration & scale challenges around O&M software deployments.

Some of the technologies in the HVAC market are mature, although the newest innovation is always just around the corner. Newer systems seek to be more sustainable and energy-efficient, and digital control technologies play a role in maximizing their performance. Trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart systems are the basis for the newest connectivity and control approaches. These innovations tie into the broader environment of smart buildings. Systems are also providing remote access to enable technicians to analyze system operation and troubleshoot any problems. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What's new in connectivity and control systems for HVAC?

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

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