4 Commercial HVAC Trends That Can Help Your Business

Today's world is all about tech. Everywhere you look, new (and not-so-new) technology has changed the way we work, learn, and play. The latest technological trends can often make life more convenient.

Not surprisingly, heating and cooling systems are also affected by technological advances. From fine-tuned control to greater comfort, HVAC tech offers a number of benefits to commercial building owners and property managers.

Here are 4 commercial HVAC trends that can benefit your business.

Eco-Friendly HVAC Systems

Going green has been a trend for many years and the demand for green building continues to grow. HVAC systems are no exception. Thanks to new technologies, eco-friendly HVAC systems are more affordable — and more efficient — than ever.

Why are green options so popular? For one thing, they're more efficient, using less resources to get desired results. That means decreased energy usage and lower monthly bills, which helps your bottom line.

Plus, they're easier on the environment. Commercial air conditioning releases about 1,950 million tons of carbon dioxide annually, which boils down to about 3.94% of total greenhouse gas emissions every year. Plus, they can leak harmful refrigerants.

Fortunately, green alternatives exist. Eco-friendly commercial HVAC systems may draw power from non-fossil fuel sources, such as wind turbines, solar or even geothermal energy. Newer, more efficient models last longer and offer better performance.

Remember: While commercial HVAC trends point to newer, green technology, the HVAC components still need regular maintenance and servicing to run smoothly and efficiently.

Ductless HVAC Systems

When updating a commercial building's HVAC system, a significant cost lies in the installation and replacement of ductwork. And sometimes, older buildings don't even have enough space — or the right type of space — for compatible ducts.

Fortunately, there's a solution: ductless HVAC systems. Ductless cooling and heating systems are compact, so they fit into smaller spaces. That means they can be installed almost anywhere, eliminating the need for costly and intensive duct installation.

Ductless HVAC systems are also a great solution for buildings that have faulty, leaky ducts. While these efficient units do require an up-front investment, in the long term they're more cost effective than redoing ducts and keeping up with constant repair needs, not to mention energy bills.

Smart HVAC Systems

You probably have a smartphone — but what about a smart thermostat? So-called "smart" technology allows HVAC system components to communicate with each other. For instance, a system with occupancy sensors can adjust temperature, humidity and lighting controls based on how many people are using the building at any given time.

Sensors can also "talk" to each other about factors such as outdoor temperature, humidity, sun position and more, then automatically adjust heating and cooling controls. For example, if part of the building is exposed to direct sunlight for part of the day, the system can turn up the A/C in summer and increase heating in winter, or open and close the blinds.

But the best perk of smart HVAC technology might just be that it allows property managers greater control over system functions. No matter where you are, you can adjust the temperature and humidity from anywhere with an internet connection.

Smart HVAC technology also helps improve indoor air quality. From a smartphone, tablet or laptop, you can monitor air quality. Installation of a smart air purifier can help keep air quality high.

In the long run, this leads to decreased energy consumption, lower energy bills, and more comfortable indoor spaces.

FInally, a smart system collects crucial data about your HVAC system's operation. This information is key when it's time to repair or replace your HVAC system or make other important decisions.

Software and Automation

All of these commercial HVAC trends make it simple to integrate helpful software that automates your building's systems. Overall, the automation process saves you money by using less energy.

Smart equipment and sensors "learn" and adapt to changes in temperature, humidity, occupancy and more. This allows the system to plan and choose the most efficient settings.

Another plus? Software that can sense potential equipment failure ahead of time, saving you time and money on repairs.

Software can also improve your building's indoor air quality. In recent years, the importance of healthy IAQ has come into sharp focus, leading to the development of several new technologies. For instance, today's air purification systems employ tools such as UV lights, hydrogen peroxide, and ionization to kill germs and ensure clean air. IAQ systems can also reduce mold, mildew, fungi and other airborne contaminants, making your building safe and healthy for occupants.

Software interfaces are easy to use, so you can get a handle on your property's energy usage. The ability to change settings and control the system from anywhere is another significant benefit. Software can increase energy efficiency, decrease response times, and lower risk of malfunction.

1 Source Mechanical

Keeping up with today's commercial HVAC trends will benefit your bottom line. Not only can you save money on energy bills thanks to greener, more efficient HVAC systems, you'll be able to take advantage of automated, smart equipment that keeps your building's air temperature, humidity and temperature where it needs to be.

That means a more comfortable space within which to work, live, and play — and property owners can reap the benefits.

If you have questions about how to best take advantage of these commercial HVAV trends, 1 Source Mechanical is here to help. Our professional team is experienced in the latest HVAV technologies, including ductless systems, smart HVAC systems, and more.

We'll work with you to set up a regular maintenance schedule. You can contact our team of commercial HVAC specialists by calling 815-517-0501. You can also submit a convenient online contact form, and a team member will get back to you right away. Get in touch with 1 Source Mechanical today to learn more about reliable commercial HVAC repair and our scheduled maintenance service agreements.