HVAC Technology to be Excited about in 2021
As 2020 draws to a close, there is plenty to be enthused about for 2021. Here at South Jersey Heating and Cooling, we’re optimistic about improved technology, which is positioned to take the commercial HVAC industry by storm. Here are a few advances that could forevermore change the way your team approaches maintenance.
Smart Technology
Business Insider magazine reports that the Internet of Things (IoT) will reach an anticipated 41 billion devices by 2027. That’s more than a 5x increase from 8 billion devices in 2019. Much of that increase will come in the way of Smart HVAC systems for commercial and industrial use.
A Smart HVAC system can streamline operations by notifying you of problems and automatically scheduling maintenance appointments. It can also better regulate temperature by predicting needs and then adjusting accordingly. By taking advantage of this technology, you can save both time and money.
DeVAP Cooling
Desiccant Enhanced Evaporative or DeVAP cooling is an innovative new method that works by absorbing moisture from the air and then using it for cooling. Following absorption, water is funneled through a honeycomb system and is held in place while a fan blows on it. This causes the water to evaporate before it is released into the air for cooling.
Not only is this method very efficient, but it also eliminates the need for harmful refrigerants. As a result, you’ll stay ahead of the game when it comes to EPA phase-outs.
Variable Air Volume (VAV)
Variable Air Volume systems utilize a single supply duct to distribute airflow at a constant temperature. A VAV unit differs from a traditional Constant Air Volume (CAV) system in which air is constantly circulated at a variable temperature. Consequently, there is less cycling on and off required. Naturally, this reduces wear and increases a unit’s lifespan.
VAV systems are most commonly used in office settings because of their simplistic nature. However, multiple-zone VAV units are often successfully installed in schools and medical facilities. The fact that they also reduce humidity and improve indoor air quality makes them ideal for these areas.
Geothermal Heating and Cooling
Ground temperatures remain at a near-constant level year round. Geothermal heating and cooling takes advantage of this steady temperature by routing water through a series of underground pipes known as an earth loop. As water circulates, it will only need to be heated or cooled a few degrees. This method can also be used to heat water.
Geothermal heating and cooling is not an entirely new concept. Even so, recent advances have made this technology more user friendly than in years past. Geothermal systems are also more durable than ever, lasting up to 25 years in many cases. Certain businesses might even be eligible for tax credits, which have now been extended through 2021.
Sustainable Design Concepts
The trend toward more sustainable buildings will affect the HVAC industry in 2021 as well. Sustainable building initiatives no longer focus solely on the structure itself, but instead include all components of it. As a result, a few changes that could affect new HVAC installation include:
- Utilizing more natural airflow to improve ventilation
- Manufacturing units from sustainable or recycled materials
- Incorporating more energy efficient technology
- Streamlining designs to make them more aesthetically pleasing
Staying Current with HVAC Technology
Here at South Jersey Heating and Cooling, we constantly stay abreast of technological advances in our industry. We then pass our knowledge on to you so that you can make a more informed decision.
