Our inventiveness has let humans solve many problems we have encountered. It has also allowed us to survive in whatever environment, whether it’s woodlands, deserts, or somewhere else. Our ingenuity has helped us up to this day as every new technology has made our lives better. This includes the HVAC industry, which has had a number of innovations over the years. While our ancestors needed to chop wood for heating, we only need to increase the thermostat level to achieve our desired comfort level. We also don’t have to suffer from the heat thanks to air conditioning systems. The past decade has seen several changes in HVAC technology that have brought a significant improvement in energy consumption and comfort.
Changes In HVAC Technology
Here are some of the biggest HVAC technology changes we’ve had over the past ten years:
Higher HVAC Equipment Efficiency
Only a few homes were fitted with HVAC systems in the past because of their high costs. Aside from the equipment, the use of HVAC systems for long periods can also be expensive. The units were also bulky and required a considerable amount of space.
A lot of improvement has been made because of the increasing efficiency of modern HVAC equipment. Air conditioners consume less energy to cool your home or office. Owners can also enjoy reduced energy bills so they can save more money. Furnaces also utilize less fuel for home heating during winters. Modern HVAC systems also have a lower environmental impact, which is an attractive feature to eco-conscious consumers.
R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out
Refrigerants are an essential liquid in ensuring cooling systems work as they should. However, older kinds of refrigerants were found to cause harm to the ozone layer, which acts as a shield against the sun’s UV radiation. The depletion of this layer means sun exposure increases the risk of cataracts, skin cancer, and other adverse effects. Increased UV radiation also causes harmful effects on materials, plants, and marine life.
Manufacturers were encouraged to use new formulations with less impact on our environment. The R-22 refrigerant was banned in 2010 except for the use in existing equipment. This was elevated to a total ban in 2020 in that older systems require replacing. If not, they need to be modified so that environmentally friendlier refrigerants like R-410a can work on them.
Smart HVAC Technologies
Every tech company pushes for everyone to have smart homes through the introduction of their own innovations to this movement. Nowadays, many appliances can be connected to the internet so you can access them via smartphones. This includes checking the equipment’s current status or looking at its historical statistics. It also lets owners control these appliances from virtually anywhere. For instance, you might have forgotten to switch off your air conditioner before leaving the house. You can still turn it off as long as you are connected to the internet, preventing you from wasting energy. You can also switch on your air conditioner before you arrive so that you can enjoy a cool environment once you get home.
Ductless Heating & Cooling Systems
Many homes are fitted with central cooling, which needs ducts to distribute the cool air throughout the home. However, some cases deem this configuration to be impractical. For instance, if you recently bought an old house built before central cooling units were widely used, it might not have ducts. You may opt to install ductless systems instead of going through a massive renovation. These units are also known as ductless heat pumps or mini-split systems because they have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, with each cooling a single zone/area. A ductless heat pump can also be used for home heating during the winter. This configuration offers better system energy efficiency, temperature control, and noise reduction.
HVAC Zoning Systems
Larger homes can also implement another popular strategy, which is HVAC zoning systems. It is an excellent strategy to implement if you have a standard HVAC system that can’t provide sufficient cooling or heating throughout your home or office. One side may be receiving more direct sunlight while the other is under the tree shade. Each zone will have separate thermostats so the temperatures can be checked and controlled more effectively. The air ducts will also be fitted with dampers. These changes allow your family to feel more comfortable while you save a great deal of money and energy.
Sensor-Driven Ventilation
Ventilation is often ignored over your heating and cooling, but it is also a crucial aspect of your overall comfort. The year 2016 saw the introduction of smart ventilation systems to the market. This technology allows homeowners to track each vent’s airflow. This is a helpful feature as you can find blockages easily and remove obstructions as needed. Smart ventilation systems also let you turn off the vents in unoccupied spaces, so the system uses less energy. Some tasks can also be automated per the sensor’s data.
Air Conditioners Have Variable-Speed Compressors
Newer cooling units are equipped with variable-speed compressors. This technology offers higher energy efficiency, better humidity control, less noise, and improved temperature management. It can also adapt to the changing environmental situations efficiently. For instance, a heavy load will cause the variable-speed compressor to speed up, while a light load will cause it to slow down. There is also enhanced power supply quality because it has no starting surge. Air conditioners with variable-speed compressors are also likely to last longer and provide greater comfort. They also have higher efficiency, so they have lower operational costs.
Conclusion
It is truly astounding how much progress we’ve had in a short period. Each year brings more innovations for everyone to look forward to. They are designed to solve common problems so that we live our lives a bit better. Consider getting a replacement soon when you have an HVAC system that was installed more than ten years ago. This way, you can take advantage of the improvements listed above. This is especially crucial if your system frequently breaks down. Replacing your system might save you more money as you’ll reduce your monthly energy bills while avoiding expensive repairs.
Tevis Energy’s sister company, Modern Comfort, performs HVAC installations, replacements, tune-ups, and more. Our technicians can provide you with expert HVAC services to ensure that your system provides you with the comfort and efficiency you deserve. Call now to schedule an appointment.
Call Tevis Energy For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
Tevis Energy provides high-quality heating and cooling services in Central Maryland & Southern Pennsylvania. We hire the best highly trained and professionally certified technicians for your HVAC service needs, such as superior HVAC repairs, maintenance, replacements, and installations. All our techs have the right tools, years of experience, and extensive skills and knowledge to provide accurate HVAC services at all times.
Our company offers one of the most affordable HVAC service rates in the area. Our tune-up services can increase your energy efficiency, enhance home comfort, and reduce your energy bills. We can recommend the best HVAC repair or replacement system for your home while remaining within your budget. All our work is guaranteed. Do not hesitate to call Tevis Energy today to schedule a service appointment. We offer free, in-home estimates.
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