Efficiency - News
Choosing the right HVAC system for a business is a crucial decision that impacts energy costs, comfort, and operational efficiency. With so many options on the market, how do users determine the best commercial HVAC units for their specific needs? When selecting a commercial HVAC system to install at a business, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of different brands is essential. Below is an exploration of the strengths and considerations of the top five brands to help users make an...
Ductless heating systems offer a streamlined way to stay warm without relying on bulky ducts. These systems, also called mini-split heat pumps, work by taking heat from outside and transferring it indoors to keep the space comfortable. They consist of an outdoor unit with a compressor and condenser and one or more indoor units that spread the warmth around the room. It’s a simple but ingenious heating solution that avoids the complexities of older heating systems. Ductless heat...
Upgrading to a more energy-efficient HVAC/R system can yield significant cost savings over time. HVAC/R systems are one of the largest energy consumers in commercial buildings, and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling accounts for over half of a typical building’s energy use. An efficient HVAC/R requires less energy to heat and cool the facility, leading to lower monthly utility bills. For example, replacing an older AC unit with a new ENERGY STAR-certified...
Getting a new HVAC system is a significant decision. Installation can be somewhat overwhelming given all the options available, and they need to consider several factors. To help them get started, they’ll address the first crucial step: choosing the right HVAC unit. Choosing the Right HVAC Unit When it comes to selecting the right HVAC unit, there are several things they need to take into account. Efficiency rating: The efficiency of the unit will determine how much it spends on...
The new Baxi Quinta Ace S wall-hung boiler series combines all the pioneer features of the Quinta Ace with stainless-steel heat exchanger options for increased design flexibility. The replacement to the Potterton Commercial Sirius three series, the new Quinta Ace S offers enhanced quality, improved controls, advanced connectivity, easier installation, and greater sustainability. The Quinta Ace S is suitable for multiple applications with outputs from 50 kW to 150 kW, up to 1,200 kW in cascade....
Armstrong Fluid Technology has introduced a new cloud-based tool named EPIC (Energy Performance Improvement Calculator) that calculates energy savings and ROI for upgrading older pumps with newer, more efficient, smart-ready models. Using the information and values from the existing pump installation, EPIC compares the asset data to the operational features of new Design Envelope pumps and generates a detailed report of savings and ROI. Energy and Facility managers “EPIC provides Energy...
Modine, the diversified pioneer in innovative thermal management technology, announces the launch of the DSU destratification fan, a standard-setting solution for combatting air stratification in manufacturing centers and other industrial settings. The DSU is designed to evenly redistribute heat during the winter and to enhance ventilation during the summer, promoting healthier airflow for warehouses, factories and other large indoor facilities. Industrial-grade construction, including 18-gauge...
AirNow.gov is the primary resource in the United States for up-to-date measurements of air quality. It’s part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) index for reporting air quality conditions all across the country. While this is an extremely helpful resource, it is focused on general conditions across large regions and may miss or ignore hyperlocal conditions near the home, which may be far away from the nearest monitor. Local air quality can be impacted by things...
From light refreshes to deep, thorough cleans, it’s time to breathe new life into the home. While users and their family clean from room to room, they can make sure to breathe healthy air by following some simple tips. This article compiles some important tips one needs to adhere to for good indoor air quality. Changing Air Filters Heating and cooling systems contain air filters that need to be changed regularly Heating and cooling systems contain air filters that need to be chang...
Carrier Solutions UK has successfully supported a major refurbishment at The Reach Hotel in Manchester (formerly La Reserve Apartments), delivering a Toshiba Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) solution in collaboration with trusted contractor A.C. Mechanical Services (ACMS). Carrier Solutions UK Ltd (formerly Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd) is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. Toshiba’s VRF technology The system ensures even comfort, prec...
Marshland Primary Academy’s transformative renewable heating installation, delivered by British ground source heat pump manufacturer and installer Kensa, has been awarded ‘Energy Project of the Year – Public’ at the 2025 Energy Awards. The major decarbonization project, which saw Kensa replace an aging gas boiler system with seven ground source heat pumps, has helped the Venn Academy Trust school in South Yorkshire secure its heating future, keep clas...
Each year, tens of thousands of professionals in the building and construction industry attend the annual International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, to explore hundreds of educational sessions from over 1,300 exhibitors—including AprilAire. As an exhibitor, AprilAire attends the International Builders’ Show to showcase their complete line of indoor air quality solutions, demonstrating proven performance and reliability as well as a dedicated support team to help...
Spring in Colorado brings not only beautiful blooms but also the challenges of high pollen counts and unpredictable weather patterns. For homeowners, this means ensuring that their HVAC systems are ready to tackle the changing conditions while maintaining indoor comfort and air quality. These essential tips will be helpful in preparing the HVAC for Colorado’s spring season. Air Filters An HVAC air filter prevents dirt and debris from damaging the internal components An HVAC air filter...
Colorado’s spring winds are formidable, capable of unsettling both homes and their vital HVAC systems. Even though these winds are a welcome sign of warmer weather to come, it’s best to prepare for their arrival and take proper precautions to ensure that the HVAC system is safe from potential damage. Spring Winds During the spring, the jet stream shifts from its winter to summer location, causing windy conditions. For some unknown reason, it is powerful in Colorado. Increased Str...
The fall season is bringing cooler temperatures to many regions of the country. That means people will likely be spending more time indoors, making October a fitting time to recognize “National Indoor Air Quality Awareness Month.” Why should people care about indoor air quality? One reason is the amount of time people spend in indoor spaces. Tightly Sealed Homes The average American spends 90% of their time indoors, where pollutants can be concentrated 2–5 times higher Acc...
How is a kid’s school doing when it comes to air quality? Some evidence suggests that an increasing number of schools across the country are applying for and receiving funding to improve their air systems. But progress has been slow, and some schools aren’t taking full advantage of the opportunity to help students and staff in the long term. Healthy indoor air has a range of benefits, especially in schools. With increased ventilation in classrooms, fewer children suffer from th...
They’re probably wondering how to keep themselves cool during the summer without having to worry about the expensive air conditioning costs. These costs inevitably skyrocket when they’re amidst the scorching months of the usual Arizona Summer. As the days get hotter, there is no doubt that they’ll be using the air conditioning system for extended periods of time. Keeping this in mind, they need to adjust the temperature on their thermostat and consider how much of an impact it...
Summer in the Denver metro area can be oppressive, and humidity plays a critical role in that oppressive feeling. Fortunately, one can control the humidity level in their house. There is more to it than keeping the level high or low. Striking an ideal balance is key to both comfort and health. Here is a look at why balanced humidity is important and how users can achieve the right balance. Problems With High Humidity Particularly, high humidity levels in the home can lead to certain health is...
Preventative commercial plumbing maintenance involves regularly scheduled checks on the building’s pipes, drains, water heaters, and other essential components. Restaurants, hotels, industrial plants, and healthcare facilities rely on plumbing to operate smoothly, making routine maintenance necessary. Failing to maintain these systems can result in costly repairs or operational downtime. For instance, an undetected pipe leak in a large office building could lead to structural damage, mol...
With the amount of time spent indoors and the impact that the spaces occupied can have on health, it is more important now than ever to ensure the air in homes and workplaces is as clean as possible. That is where the Project Sustainability Podcast comes in. Project Sustainability Podcast Hosted by a team of experts in sustainability and environmentalism, the Project Sustainability Podcast aims to educate and entertain listeners about a wide range of topics related to the environment...
Nearly every household utilizes an HVAC system to manage and circulate heated or cooled air throughout the home. These systems vary in type. Knowing what components are included with the home’s HVAC system can help ensure one stays on top of preventative or recurring maintenance to protect its performance and longevity. Below is a breakdown of the common HVAC-related terms that every homeowner should know. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning There are two common ways to he...
When it comes to creating a comfortable, healthy living environment, indoor humidity is one of the most important yet often overlooked factors. Maintaining a humidity level of 40–60% can have profound benefits for health, the structural integrity of a home, and overall comfort. Balanced humidity isn’t just about feeling comfortable; it has a direct impact on both the health and the longevity of one’s home. High Humidity: Signs and Impacts High indoor humidity, especially com...
Heat pumps offer a promising low-carbon alternative to fossil fuel heating for many homes in the UK. They provide highly efficient domestic heating and significant energy savings when replacing oil or gas central heating, reducing carbon emissions and in some cases saving money on fuel bills. The two types of heat pumps – Air Source (ASHP) and Ground Source (GSHP) – work in a very similar way, but in practice there are many differences for both installers and consumers to consider....
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme was announced in October 2021 as part of the Heat and Buildings Strategy – the government’s plan to decarbonize homes and workplaces across the UK. Heating accounts for almost a quarter of all UK carbon emissions and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is intended to be the first step away from gas and oil boilers towards mass deployment of low carbon heating systems. The government has set out targets to ensure all new heating systems in the UK are low carbon by 20...
Feras Abouchleih has joined Wiegmann Associates as Controls Engineer. Abouchleih is responsible for engineering design and also programming, commissioning and troubleshooting building automation systems for commercial and industrial clients in St. Louis and across the United States. He collaborates with Wiegmann’s engineering department to ensure that control designs meet project standards and achieve optimal energy efficiency and building performance. Experience in electrical engineeri...
As the temperatures begin to drop, it’s essential to prepare the home and garden for the colder months ahead. Winter in Florida, particularly in Pensacola, may not bring snowstorms, but that doesn’t mean the home is immune to the impacts of winter weather. Taking the right steps now will help protect the home, garden, and outdoor equipment while ensuring the indoor space remains comfortable. Here’s how to get the home and garden winter-ready, including HVAC maintenance tips to...
The holiday season is a time for family, celebrations, and often, a bit of overspending. Once the festivities are over, many homeowners find themselves looking for ways to tighten their budgets and recover from holiday expenses. If they’re in this boat, they’re not alone! Fortunately, there are many small adjustments they can make to save money in the new year—starting with the home and HVAC system. At Climatech of Professional Air, they believe that efficiency is key when it...
Air leaks can be a big, expensive issue for homeowners. They can be hard to locate and even harder to seal without the right solution. But there are several signs to look for to see if a home is leaking air. A drafty home is the most obvious sign that one has air leaks. But don’t assume they are due to the home’s doors or windows. Research shows that only 20 percent of home air leaks are from doors and windows. Signs for air leaks The following are signs that suggest a house may h...
Trane® – by Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, is honored to be named a 2025 National Preferred Partner by David Weekley Homes, one of the nation’s largest privately held home builders. Trane is one of 12 manufacturing partners, recognized for exceeding expectations, based on the results of a comprehensive survey and evaluation process by David Weekley Homes team members. This is Trane’s 14th year receiving the award, presented annually since 2005. St...
An upgrade to the Johnson Controls flagship building automation system (BAS), Metasys 14.1 offers a suite of new and enhanced features that answers the need for more comprehensive energy management. The BAS, which combines HVAC, fire, security and lighting systems into one, seamless platform, allows facility managers, IT teams and decision makers to optimize operations, fortify cybersecurity, advance energy and emissions goals, boost productivity and strategically modernize facilities. Buildin...