New HVAC technology continues to change the industry, with advancements such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality constantly bringing new HVAC innovations to both residential and commercial customers.
To keep up with new HVAC technology, HVAC professionals need to understand how these HVAC innovations are shaping the installation, use and maintenance of systems moving forward.
Here are the latest HVAC technology trends that we’re keeping an eye on:
Smart Thermostats
Wi-Fi-enabled programmable devices do far more than just pre-set a temperature. Smart thermostats are capable of connecting with other home systems, allowing homeowners to integrate their HVAC technology with the other functions throughout the home. This commonly includes voice commands and automatically adjusting temperature and light settings when you’re not home to conserve energy.
Smart HVAC systems can also help predict when maintenance is needed before there’s a real issue, making for both better informed and prepared customers and technicians everywhere.
Alternative Heating & Cooling Options
New, eco-friendly buildings are now being designed to use minimal energy to heat and cool the property, changing the way we think about and apply HVAC technology. Builders are utilizing natural airflow and specialized materials alongside new HVAC technologies such as solar solutions and geothermal heat pumps to boost efficiency.
One example of this sustainable HVAC system is the dual fuel heat pump. This HVAC technology combines an electric heat pump and full-sized gas furnace into one package, making a great heating system for homeowners who live in regions of the country with low electricity rates and moderate climates that rarely drop below freezing.
Internet of Things (IoT)
New HVAC innovations may also include the integration of an Internet of Things (IoT) system. This new HVAC technology is embedded with sensors, software and connectivity that enables the HVAC system to exchange data with other connected devices. This allows for easier and more in-depth insights into equipment such as:
- Rooftop air-handling units (RTU)
- Air-handling units (AHU)
- Make-up air units (MAU)
- Variable air volume (VAV) with reheat systems
- Boilers
- Cooling towers
- Air- and water-cooled heat pumps
Remote Monitoring
To cut down on emergency maintenance calls, it’s becoming more common for residential and commercial customers to have smart HVAC systems designed for remote monitoring. With this new HVAC technology, the systems with remote monitoring and diagnostics minimize power waste by ensuring units operate at their peak efficiency and align closely with manufacturer specifications.
Mobile-Friendly Technology
Considering how heavily most of us already rely on our mobile devices in our daily lives, customers want their HVAC services to be easy-to-pay, easy to book and easily accessible from anywhere.
This means in addition to the technology associated with smart HVAC systems, HVAC businesses should offer a robust mobile interface that delivers a quality online customer support experience.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality (VR) technology is becoming a cost-effective way to train new HVAC employees or current staff on new HVAC technology and equipment.
This training can avoid real-world damage and help technicians walk through the troubleshooting and installation process of the latest HVAC technology. It minimizes the cost and risk involved in training, helping ensure technicians are better prepared when they go out into the field.
Energy Analysis Software
Energy analysis software is one of the top HVAC innovations to monitor in the coming years. This software can help architects find an appropriate design to project lifetime consumption in their buildings. It can also lead to more cost-effective and energy-effective HVAC technology and systems across the spectrum.
HVAC Technology: Where Do We Go from Here?
Staying informed on the latest HVAC technology is the best way to grow your business, serve your community and remain competitive in an everchanging market. In fact, reports show that the HVAC service market is expected to grow up to $82.5 billion by 2026.
With growing demand across the industry, be sure to pay attention to the new HVAC technology and HVAC trends that will shape the systems and service of tomorrow.
