Innovative technologies are gradually taking the world by storm. Smartphone innovations and high tech gadgets continue to improve the comfort and convenience of homeowners in many industries including HVAC.
While some of these technologies however are still at a conceptual stage or on the drawing board, many are already available and you can take advantage of.
Movement-Activated Air Conditioning
This is a new air conditioning design developed by engineers at MIT. It utilizes sensors and aluminum rods which are hung from the ceiling. Movement activates these sensors, causing the air conditioning unit to kick on.
Technically, this means that the AC kicks on only when people are present. When fully developed and rolled out, this technology will help reduce energy wastage and minimize utility costs.
On-Demand Hot Water Re-circulator
This technology was developed by a US-based company in Rhode Island. It incorporates an on command pump integrated with the water lines in homes. Upon activation, the system allows for cool water to be re-circulated into the water heater.
The problem this solution solves is that of water wastage as it waits to be warmed up. By re-circulating the water back into the system, such wastage is avoided.
Sensor-Enhanced Ventilation
Developed by Ecovent, this technology comprises sensor-driven vents that replace the existing wall, ceiling, or floor vents in homes. Through an app, the technology provides precise room-by-room temperature control.
Additionally, the system uses sensors to monitor air pressure, temperature, and indoor air quality factors in homes. Although it is a new system, it has already penetrated the market and you can install it in your home.
Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps
The argument put forward by this technology is that heat pumps are more efficient when they use a combination of fuel. In this particular case, gas and electricity are combined optimally to help run the heat pump system.
When temperatures are low, the pump draws on gas heat to maximize on efficiency. As temperature rises to levels above 35 degrees, electricity kicks in as the preferred fuel. As expected, the initial cost of installing dual-fuel heat pumps is higher than that of conventional systems. However, over the years, savings realized will compensate for the cost and more.
Smart Homes
These days, everything is getting smart and smarter. Through phone apps and connected systems, you can now control the heating, cooling, lighting, and security systems in your home. HVAC engineers are on track developing high tech solutions that integrate with the smart technology platform to give homeowners convenience and comfort.
Other innovations such as fully automated homes, 3D printed air conditioners, geothermal heat pumps, and ice-powered air conditioning are changing the landscape in a big way.