Energy Star

Ruskin introduces a new addition to its airfoil blade damper models. The Ruskin CD60SS is AMCA-certified for Class IA leakage resistance (three cubic feet per minute at one-inch water gauge), which meets the requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The CD60SS is constructed from 304-grade stainless steel and designed for high performance in HVAC systems with velocity and pressures up to 4,000 feet per minute (fpm) velocity and 8-inch water gauge pressures. The CD60SS complements its galvanized airfoil model counterpart CD60, which is the most specified and top-selling damper for Ruskin. The stainless steel construction delivers higher durability against corrosion. “Our latest airfoil blade damper was designed to deliver exceptional performance with high-velocity HVAC systems,” said Mike Coyazo, product manager, Ruskin. “The new stainless steel damper makes the CD60SS more corrosion resistant, resulting in lower maintenance costs.”

Johnson Controls will showcase its unmatched portfolio of advanced, sustainable and future-ready HVACR solutions at the 2020 AHR Expo (Booth 3833) Feb. 3-5 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The Johnson Controls booth will be centered around the company’s new brand focus – ‘The power behind your mission’ – which reinforces its commitment to advancing the safety, comfort and intelligence of spaces and places to power its customers’ business goals. “The HVACR industry is constantly evolving and Johnson Controls is well-positioned to meet changing consumer demand with more efficient, sustainable and smart-ready products,” said Jeff Williams, president, Global Products, Johnson Controls. “The 2020 AHR Expo brings together a collection of our latest and most advanced products to help simplify building management, increase energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.” seamless integration The units are Smart Equipment enabled and provide seamless integration with building controls systems YORK Sun Choice: The new 15-27.5-ton commercial rooftop units exceed Department of Energy (DOE) 2018 regulations by up to 25% and surpass future DOE 2023 part-load standards by nearly 10%. The units feature a lightweight design that is up to 33% lighter than existing Johnson Controls models and up to 22% lighter than competing products. Large-tonnage commercial rooftop units: The new series of 27.5–50-ton commercial rooftop units seek to provide class-leading performance to deliver comfort without compromise – all in a cost-effective package. The units are Smart Equipment enabled and provide seamless integration with building controls systems, including Verasys, which helps maximize control for greater efficiency, extended equipment life and reduced operating costs. communicating zoning system New Communicating Zoning System: YORK will launch the new Wi-Fi-enabled Hx 3 communicating zoning solution, offering a range of devices to build systems supporting up to eight zones in homes resulting in maximum efficiency of equipment. The communicating zoning system can be controlled on the equipment, individual room thermostats or remotely controlled on the upgraded Hx Pro mobile application. When paired with this new technology, YORK Affinity Variable Capacity Systems are smarter, more connected, more efficient and more reliable than ever before. The Ducted Systems group will also feature the 2020 AHR Innovation Award-winning YORK TL9E Ultra-Low NOx Gas Furnace. Metasys Release 10.1: The latest version of the Metasys building automation system (BAS) includes an award-winning Cyber Health Dashboard and a new family of Network Engines to help drive system performance and cybersecurity. An exclusive first look at Metasys enhancements that will be available later this year will also be on display, including new supervisory and equipment controller models and fault detection, and fault triage capabilities. commercial refrigeration system The Johnson Controls building automation team will also exhibit next-generation hardware for Facility Explorer, including a brand new supervisory controller, a new family of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) for critical environments and other additions to its robust building automation portfolio as part of the recent EasyIO acquisition. YZ offers outstanding efficiency, an impressive operating map and a low total cost of ownership PENN Connected Refrigeration: This new tool leverages the cloud, IoT, mobile applications and data analytics to provide real-time data to optimize commercial refrigeration system efficiency, performance and reliability. It’s a cost-effective solution to ensure food stored in refrigeration equipment is always safe. Johnson Controls will feature a wide range of commercial and residential thermostat controls. Designed to help occupants efficiently and easily manage indoor comfort, the LUX portfolio provides a commercial line of thermostats of all types – from mechanical and pneumatic to smart Zigbee and zWave controls – to fit almost any project. HVAC systems design process Pros can see first-hand the simplicity and design of the LUX line of smart thermostats, including the KONO Smart, KONOz and KONOzw, CS1, GEO and the award-winning LUX P series of programmable thermostats, as well as the latest Johnson Controls TEC3000 and WT4K for commercial applications. HVAC Designer: This new web-based tool speeds up the HVAC systems design process by assisting with many time-consuming tasks necessary to design a complete system, such as a rooftop system with Verasys controls. The tool can import loads from diverse sources, create your schematics, automatically complete industry-standard HVAC calculations, guide product selections that meet system performance requirements, and create project documentation. heat recovery systems Hitachi multi-module water source VRF heat pump and heat recovery systems (Booth # 3819): The new multi-module systems are the largest capacity water source variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems in the industry – ranging from 6-48 tons – and offer the capability of connecting multiple single-module units. A new development for the award-winning YORK YZ Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller will be announced at the show. Johnson Controls has developed an integrated heat exchanger option available in YORK air handlers Launched in early 2018, the YZ is the first chiller fully optimized for ultimate performance with a next generation low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant. The YZ offers outstanding efficiency, an impressive operating map, sustainability and a low total cost of ownership. Johnson Controls Innovates Wrap-Around Heater Exchangers for a Compact Air Handler Footprint: With the growing need for energy-efficient dehumidification methods, Johnson Controls has developed an integrated wrap-around heat exchanger option exclusively available in YORK air handlers. temperature and lighting control The result is a compact design offering a significant footprint reduction vs. alternative systems. Wrap-around heat exchangers offer dehumidification benefits for many HVAC system applications including schools, hospitals, laboratories and gymnasiums. Manufactured on the same line as other YORK AHRI 410-certified coils, Johnson Controls guarantees the performance and reliability of the entire system without need for onsite installation or additional manufacturing lead time. Johnson Controls Companion: This personal occupant app combines temperature and lighting control, space reservation, desk usage, way finding, helpdesk, ticket request and mobile access/e-badge management to enable the workplace and workforce of the future. The easy-to-use app gives occupants more control while making buildings smarter and more efficient. advanced cloud-based platform Smart Connected Chillers provide machine learning-enabled, value-added analysis, including vibration analysis Johnson Controls Enterprise Management: This advanced cloud-based platform is machine learning-enabled and allows users to monitor and manage building operations data, space utilization, tenants, equipment and systems from a single pane of glass. An advanced Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) engine, predictive capabilities and integration with preferred work order system provides quick and measurable ROI. Smart Connected Chillers: Evolving from preventive to predictive condition-based maintenance, Smart Connected Chillers provide machine learning-enabled, value-added analysis, including vibration analysis, to aid in early detection of machine faults with proactive recommendations to make smart decisions around equipment performance. critical environment controls FMS-2000 Critical Environment Controller: Triatek will display the latest addition to the critical environment controls portfolio, the FMS-2000 Critical Environment Controller. It features a larger five-inch-high definition touch screen with increased font size that makes verifying temperature, pressure and humidity easier across operating rooms and other critical spaces. An updated interface will provide a consistent user experience across Johnson Controls products, and users can customize which parameter(s) to display on the screen. Two different password-protected access levels provide facility managers and healthcare staff with the peace of mind that certain settings are only accessible to approved staff. The FMS-2000 can control and monitor up to six parameters across four rooms, which makes it a cost- effective choice. It includes the patented Safety Halo edge lighting that provides 360˚ of color-coded status visibility. The FMS-2000 seamlessly integrates with Metasys and Facility Explorer, and will be available globally in 17 languages in March 2020. energy efficiency Service and Maintenance: Johnson Controls offers the industry’s most comprehensive options for service and maintenance of HVAC equipment and controls in North America, including both smart-ready Johnson Controls products as well as competitive products.  Johnson Controls will also offer educational presentations addressing key trends in the industry, including the 2019 Energy Efficiency Indicator Survey. Clay Nesler, Vice President, global energy and sustainability for Johnson Controls, will unveil findings of the 2019 Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI). The annual survey tracks current and planned investments, key drivers and organizational barriers to improving energy efficiency in facilities.

Nigel Evans, Conservative Candidate for Ribble Valley, has visited Baxi Heating in Club Street, Bamber Bridge, Preston to see the hydrogen boiler that the heating manufacturer is developing. The prototype boiler, that has been developed in conjunction with Baxi Heating’s parent company, BDR Thermea Group, works using 100% pure hydrogen, which does not produce any carbon emissions. That means no carbon dioxide is emitted through the flue into the atmosphere, and there is no danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. hydrogen-ready boilers Engineers in Baxi Heating’s Research and Development laboratory demonstrated the boiler to Mr Evans and explained how hydrogen-ready boilers are being developed that will run firstly on a 20% mix of hydrogen into the normal natural gas fuel, making a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, ready for a time when the gas network could run on 100% pure hydrogen. Nigel Evans stated: “I am excited and proud of the research and development that is taking place in my constituency to develop the next generation of green boiler that will heat our homes and protect the environment. If I am returned to Parliament, I will be inviting Ministers to visit the site. The Government needs to get behind this technology that will keep people warm and comfortable in their homes and protect our environment, both in the UK and across the world.”

The University of Detroit Jesuit High School chooses Aquatherm pipe for a second project. Aquatherm used their famous Green Pipe for this project. The high school campus needed a piping system that could be installed in a new four-story 40,000sq ft building on a very tight schedule. Aquatherm North America fabricated some sections of the chilled-water piping system, saying installation time as well as labor costs. The advantages of using Aquatherm: Aquatherm was an easy choice because a previous successful piping project on campus features a leak-free Aquatherm Blue Pipe system Aquatherm North America's initial inventory of its new 4 inch SDR 17.6 blue pipe sold out quickly so the company worked with the owner to find a comparable small diameter green pipe that still would provide the needed volume The R-1 value per inch of the SDR 7.4 green pipe provides ongoing energy savings process and the pressure test Josh Umphrey, Journeyman Pipe Fitter, John E. Green Co., Highland Park, MI said: “Most of us trademen in the field are 'I'll believe it when I see it' types. But I will say that after going through the process and the pressure test, I'm more than comfortable installing and recommending Aquatherm Pipe.”

Resideo Technologies, Inc. announced the launch of the Resideo Home app, which will make whole-home monitoring possible for the four critical networks of the home – water, air, energy and security. At an event for industry professionals and partners at the historic Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theatre in Austin, the company showcased its vision for the future of the smart home and upcoming subscription services made possible by the new app. Through these services, homeowners will easily connect with professionals who can help ensure home networks are operating efficiently and can intervene to help prevent costly damages, like water leaks and major appliance failures. "At Resideo, we’re committed to helping homeowners make sense of their homes, and in the process, help professionals modernize and expand their businesses while giving a better experience to customers,” said Mike Nefkens, President and CEO of Resideo. Resideo Home And Resideo Pro Apps We do not believe that the critical systems of the home should be a do-it-yourself adventure" “We do not believe that the critical systems of the home should be a do-it-yourself adventure. Through the new Resideo Home app, we’re going to bring the world of proactive, professional monitoring to the entire home, helping better protect the people inside and mitigating problems before they arise.” Designed to provide homeowners with a simple, unified platform that connects and manages the home, Resideo will enable the migration of the company’s 6.5 million connected customers, currently spread out among its existing apps, into the Resideo Home app throughout 2020. Users of Resideo’s recently launched Buoy Whole Home Water Controller and Buoy Water Leak Detectors can begin using the new app and access its free features, or upgrade to premium services like advanced automatic water shutoff and leak alerts. In the coming months, Resideo will integrate air products, such as the T Series line of smart thermostats, into the app. home security systems By the end of 2020, the app will support Resideo whole-home security systems as well. Unlike other smart-home apps that merely control gadgets, the Resideo Home app looks at the entire home by offering a glimpse into how the air, water, security and energy systems are performing. The bright and visually rich user experience offers insights through analytics that will help the homeowner identify energy savings, water usage and other tips over time. A professional version of the app, Resideo Pro, will provide professionals with installation tools, help them better service customers through account management and service calls, and provide access to new business opportunities. The Resideo Home and Resideo Pro apps are available now in the iOS and Android app stores. New Whole-Home Services We’re giving the entire home a pulse to help both homeowners and the trade professionals save time and resources" Resideo also unveiled its new portfolio of connected, whole-home monitoring solutions that will be accessible through the app. Approximately 25% of homes in the United States have professionally monitored security. In a first for the industry, the new subscription services from Resideo extend professional monitoring to the other critical networks of the home. Resideo’s new subscription services will help pros and homeowners use the data already being produced by the critical systems of the home in ways that make the home work better and more efficiently. “We’re giving the entire home a pulse to help both homeowners and the trade professionals save time and resources,” said Niccolo de Masi, Chief Innovation Officer and President of Products & Solutions, Resideo. advanced machine-learning algorithms “For most people, their home is their largest financial investment – where they live with their loved ones and keep their most precious possessions. We are proud to bring this much-needed enhanced protection to the home.” Smart Water Management is now available on the Resideo app and integrates with the Buoy Whole Home Water Controller and the Buoy Water Leak Detector. Through the new $9.99 subscription service, homeowners can start to make informed choices about their water use. Using data from the water controller, the Resideo Home app categorizes water usage, measures flow rate, applies advanced machine-learning algorithms and analyzes insights in real-time to help homeowners better conserve water while protecting their home. Indoor Air Quality Monitor Critical Appliance Monitoring Services will help homeowners stay ahead of equipment maintenance issues Energy Services will launch on existing T Series Smart Thermostats in the Resideo app in 2020. The software service understands how the home’s HVAC system reacts and recovers to changing weather conditions. With that data, the smart thermostat knows how to adjust the schedule while using the least amount of energy possible. Indoor Air Quality Services will provide real-time monitoring of factors affecting indoor air quality (IAQ) and provide tips that help the homeowner take action. Resideo announced its new Indoor Air Quality Monitor, which will pair with the app to let homeowners and their home pros see real-time carbon dioxide levels, particles, chemicals and humidity to understand the air inside and do something about it. Critical Appliance Monitoring Services will help homeowners stay ahead of equipment maintenance issues and breakdowns. Before aging or failing appliances quit altogether, they tend to draw more energy as their efficiency decreases. smart home security solution Pros and homeowners using the Resideo app and upcoming monitoring equipment will have access to data that can help diagnose a problem before it gets more serious and prevent premature failure in costly appliances like water heaters and furnaces. Security Services integration in the app will allow homeowners to control Resideo’s ProSeries Home Security and Smart Home Platform coming to market in 2020. This revolutionary platform delivers entry-level security protection with the ability to scale to a fully integrated smart home security solution. It features new self-contained wireless and hybrid panels, an expanded line of advanced encrypted sensors and life safety devices, technology expansion modules interchangeable across the entire platform to help reduce inventory and training costs, and end-user replaceable parts creating operational cost efficiencies for dealers with increased account longevity. Services For Professionals A new training and loyalty program called Resideo Pro PERKS launches in January 2020 Coupled with the new app, this platform brings security, life safety and connected technology to homes, with a host of features and benefits in one scalable, flexible, end-to-end platform. Resideo also announced a new digital experience that can help its network of 110,000 trade professionals – and their 1 million technicians – build business for the future, simplify operations and strengthen relationships with homeowners. The Resideo Pro Portal offers a single destination for product information, product support, access to services and tools to promote and drive leads. A new training and loyalty program called Resideo Pro PERKS launches in January 2020. smart home solutions Through the Pro PERKS program, pros and distributors will be able to access a tiered system of benefits, including strategic partnerships with other pros in Resideo’s network to take advantage of new business opportunities across the homes’ critical networks, new marketing tools to sell smart home solutions, and new video courses to become experts on the latest technologies. “Resideo’s value proposition is firmly grounded in the belief that DIY companies are simply not equipped to address the installation and integration challenges due to the vast number of smart-home devices on the market, as well as lacking the know-how that local contractors have,” said Mark Vena, Senior smart home analyst, Moor Insights & Strategy. "In addition, to manage critical systems in the home like air conditioning, heating, water management and energy utilization, advanced technical training and professional-grade equipment is required – two things the average consumer or the DIY companies don’t possess.” Next Generation Comfort Platform Resideo also unveiled concepts for its next-generation smart thermostat it will develop in partnership with professional contractors. Much more than a thermostat, the device will fully integrate with the Resideo Home app, providing insight into the four critical networks and access to subscription services through on-the-wall control with a modern user interface. The company plans to launch alpha and beta test programs with professionals in 2020. “We have an enormous advantage to deliver whole-home monitoring because of our presence in 150 million homes and decades of experience,” Nefkens said. “Our professional network of suppliers, dealers, contractors and installers ensures the job is done right, that dedicated support is always within reach, and will lay the groundwork to bring the next era of the connected home to life.”

Greenheck has added two new products to its automatic balancing damper (ABD) line. Model ABD-FD incorporates a UL 555 rated 1-1/2 or 3 hour static fire damper, flanged sleeve, an ABD and an optional factory-supplied grille. The entire ABD-FD assembly is UL rated and approved and can be used in both supply and exhaust applications. Ceiling radiation damper CRD-1WT, UL classified for wood truss floor/ceiling assemblies, now has ABD-FD the option to add an ABD mounted in the plenum box. automatic balancing dampers Pressure independent automatic balancing dampers are designed to maintain constant airflow volume in HVAC applications. The damper blade is calibrated to automatically adjust to changing pressures. Greenheck, globally renowned company in manufacturing and distribution of air movement, conditioning and control equipment, offers the most UL certified dampers and the largest selection of AMCA licensed dampers in the industry. The company’s flagship ventilation products are installed at hospitals, office buildings, hotels, restaurants and schools globally.

There is a gap between how buildings are designed and how they operate. For one thing, designers may not be focused on operability during the design process. Secondly, technology is playing a greater role in more complex buildings today, but it may not perform to expectations. These were among the observations by Darryl K. Boyce, P.Eng. ASHRAE’s 2019-2020 President, at a luncheon address at the 2019 Annual Conference. Importance of data security “Technology is not evil,” Boyce said. “We can have unrealistic expectations, and technology can be misused.” Additionally, technology can provide a large amount of data/information that can be overwhelming to control technicians. “Operators are being overwhelmed,” said Boyce. “Generally, they do not have the skills to operate today’s buildings and are not properly trained. At building turnover, operators are rarely properly oriented.”  Green buildings When green buildings do not operate as intended, the result is ‘performance slippage’When green buildings do not operate as intended, the result is ‘performance slippage’ – the energy consumption is much higher than modeled targets. This can be because buildings were designed with systems that are beyond the capacity of building managers to operate. It could be that systems are complex and require several years to refine and understand. Finally, there is a correlation between performance and level of commissioning. One solution Boyce suggests is to include a building operations team representative throughout the design process. “The design should reflect the capabilities of the people operating the building,” says Boyce. “As a result, we will not be leaving operators wondering ‘How do I make this work?’” An effective turnover and orientation training process are critical. Building automation Boyce said ASHRAE should work with building owner-operator organizations to develop strategies to prepare the operators to effectively operate the building through enhanced training and effective use of building automation and analytical and other operational tools.  “We should also engage with building operators at the Chapter and Society level to improve our understanding of their problems and develop educational and training programs to reduce the gap between design, construction and operations,” Boyce said. Facilities management “Facilities management must adopt technology more quickly and far more deeply,” he added. “It must move beyond technology to monitor space utilization and energy consumption. And we need to focus on using technology, data and analytics to enhance the workplace experience.” ASHARE is the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, a professional association seeking to advance HVAC&R systems design and construction. It has more than 57,000 members in 132 countries. ‘Building for People & Performance - Operational Excellence’ The theme focuses on overcoming the challenges associated with the efficient operationDuring his inaugural presidential address, Boyce announced the Society theme will be ‘Building for People & Performance - Achieving Operational Excellence’. The theme focuses on overcoming the challenges associated with the efficient operation and performance of buildings. “People must succeed within the buildings we create,” says Boyce. “ASHRAE is committed to preparing building professionals through learning opportunities, engagement and adopting better practices. These are the steps needed to achieve effective operational performance and operator experience.” Boyce is special advisor to the vice-president (Finance and Administration) at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

If the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol is ratified in the United States, the HVAC industry could benefit for years to come. Overall, the amendment could provide an additional 33,000 jobs and $12.5 billion in annual economic output. Those numbers are from a study by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) and the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy. It’s one quantifiable estimate of the economic impact of the Kigali Amendment, which promises to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) more than 80% over the next 30 years. Next-Generation Technologies HFCs were embraced at the time as a replacement because they are safe for the ozone layer The amendment provides a gradual phasedown of currently used HFCs to allow a more cost-effective transition to next-generation technologies. The Montreal Protocol (ratified in 1989) originally pledged to phase out the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), including the hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) R-22, which was previously used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems. HFCs were embraced at the time as a replacement because they are safe for the ozone layer, although they are a greenhouse gas and thus contribute to global warming. That was not as big a concern in the 1980s. The Kigali Amendment, which was negotiated in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2016 and ratified in November 2017, now targets use of HFCs in signatory countries beginning in January 2019. Economic Benefit To Businesses The amendment is expected to prevent up to a 0.9 degree Fahrenheit increase in global warming through the end of the century. That impact is significant given the 2015 Paris Agreement’s goal to keep the increase in global temperature below 2 degrees Fahrenheit through 2100. President Trump has not submitted the Kigali Amendment to the Senate for approval So far, 65 countries have ratified the Kigali Amendment, but it has not yet been ratified by the U.S. Senate. President Trump has not submitted the Kigali Amendment to the Senate for approval, although they would likely approve it because of the potential for economic benefit to businesses. Earlier, Barack Obama attempted to implement the Kigali Amendment without Senate approval but was undermined by the Supreme Court. Addressing Damage To The Ozone Layer An issue is whether the Kigali Agreement should be made part of the 1992 United Nations’ Framework Convention on Climate Change because it targets global warning, rather than part of the Montreal Protocol, which is aimed at addressing damage to the ozone layer. The Kigali Amendment freezes HFC usage at certain annual levels for various countries and then seeks to reduce use of HFCs after that. Developed countries (such as the U.S.) would freeze HFC production and use in 2019, while developing countries such as China and Brazil would freeze usage in 2024. Developing countries, such as India and Pakistan, would freeze usage in 2028. Alternatives to HFCs include hydrofluoro olefins (HFOs) and natural refrigerants such as R-717, R-744, propane and butane. Heat Pump Equipment Switching away from HFCs requires a replacement of heat pump equipment HFOs are a new class of unsaturated HFC refrigerants that have a lower global warming potential and shorter atmospheric lifetimes; they are not included as substances to be phased down in the Kigali Amendment. Switching away from HFCs requires a replacement of heat pump equipment. During the transition, the industry will depend on hybrid refrigerants that combine HFCs and HFOs to meet regulatory targets without requiring HVAC equipment to be replaced. While HFCs are out of patent and cost around $7 a pound, the patented replacements, such as Solstice (Honeywell) and Opteon (Dupont), cost around $71 a pound. Replacing a heat pump to accommodate the newer substances will cost consumers thousands of dollars in equipment and installation costs. For the HVAC industry, it represents a potential business boon.

A key deadline for phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) from residential air conditioning systems is less than a year away. Jan. 1, 2020, is the deadline after which there will be no U.S. production or import of HCFC-142b and HCFC-22 (also called R-22). The deadline is part of an incremental phazeout of HCFC consumption and production based on the U.S. commitment in the 1997 Montreal Protocol aimed at protecting stratospheric ozone. Section 605 of the Clean Air Act establishes phazeout targets for the chemicals. The phazeout will be complete in 2030, after which time there will be no production or import of any HCFCs. HCFC-142b retrofit refrigerant HCFC-142b is used in small quantities in refrigerant blends and as a retrofit refrigerant in motor vehicle ACs HCFC-142b is used in small quantities in refrigerant blends and as a retrofit refrigerant in motor vehicle air conditioners that previously used chloroflurococarbons (CFCs), which were eliminated in the mid-1990s for their potential to deplete the ozone layer. HCFC-22 is the most commonly used refrigerant in applications such as unitary air conditioners, cold storage, retail food refrigeration equipment, chillers and industrial process refrigeration. Any air conditioner or heat pump manufactured before 2010 likely uses HCFC-22 refrigerant. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons in air conditioning systems On Jan. 1, 2020, U.S. production or import of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b will not be permitted in the United States. After this happens, only recycled/reclaimed or stockpiled quantities of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b will be available for servicing existing equipment, and they will likely be more expensive. These substances have been in the process of being phazed out since 2015, when supplies were reduced by 90 percent. Since 2010, HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b have been available exclusively for use to service existing equipment.   There are several non-ozone-depleting alternatives to HCFC-22. They include R-134a and R-410A, which can be used in a new installation; and R-407C and R-407A, which can be used in a new or a retrofit installation. The most common alternative is R-410A, which is manufactured and sold under various trade names such as GENTRON AZ-20, SUVA 410A, and PURON. Significant New Alternatives Policy SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy) was established by the U.S. Clean Air Act to identify and evaluate substitutes for ozone-depleting substances. The program looks at overall risks to human health and the environment of existing and new substitutes, publishes lists and promotes the use of acceptable substances, and provides the public with information. EPA reviews alternative refrigerants and maintains a list of acceptable substitutes for household and light commercial air conditioning. For the last 25 years, the air conditioning and refrigeration industry has been working to reduce its use of CFC refrigerants, which are no longer available on new equipment. The industry has used alternative refrigerants and achieved higher efficiency ratings to achieve the goals. CFC refrigerants Long life of AC equipment has extended the continuing use of CFC refrigerants by existing equipment However, the long useful life of air conditioning equipment has extended the continuing use of CFC refrigerants by existing equipment. Green building groups have supported legislative action to reduce federal depreciation schedules for this equipment, which would accelerate the replacement of older equipment and hasten the total elimination of CFC refrigerant use. The HEAT Act, which Congress passed in 2017 as part of the landmark Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, reduced commercial HVAC expensing from 39 years to immediate (zero years). Phazing out ozone-depleting refrigerants The European Union is also committed to protecting the ozone layer and has some of the strictest regulations in the world. Since 2010, there has been a ban on the use of “virgin” HCFCs to service and maintain refrigeration and air conditioning equipment; use of reclaimed or recycled HCFCs for service or maintenance has been banned since 2015.

LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA is debuting two new case studies in the LG Project Profile Series - The Ebell of Los Angeles, a historic Los Angeles performance art facility, and The Lido House, an Autograph Collection by Marriott hotel, a high-end property in Newport Beach, California. The projects showcase how LG's unique heating, ventilation and air conditioning technologies can be applied in commercial environments where historic and design implications are of paramount importance. LG's Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology and ducted and duct-free solutions are making major inroads in the United States where the demand for high-performance, flexible HVAC technology continues to grow. LG's air conditioning systems are designed to minimize efficiency losses found in conventional HVAC systems, provide sustainable energy savings, and offer one of the lowest lifecycle costs of any system on the market today. LG's growing set of controls are helping building managers to seamlessly manage and regulate their systems with the simple touch of a button. The Ebell of Los Angeles LG's Air Handling Unit (AHU) Conversion Kits paired with Multi V 5 VRF condensing units were installed Opened more than a century ago, The Ebell of Los Angeles and the accompanying Wilshire Ebell Theater encourage the educational, cultural and social growth of the Los Angeles community. Working with a wide range of artists and promoters from around the world, the Theater brings performing arts to the diverse population of the city. Since 1927, the complex has been owned and operated by the Ebell of Los Angeles women's club, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994, solidifying its status as an iconic structure. With the need to replace old, inefficient cooling towers and a chiller system that only cooled the theater space, The Ebell of Los Angeles' management team sought a new, innovative HVAC solution to address the needs of the larger complex beyond the theater and the occupants. Ultimately, LG's Air Handling Unit (AHU) Conversion Kits paired with Multi V 5 VRF condensing units were installed. They could be easily mounted within the confines of the space and met the careful consideration of many preservation and aesthetic requirements. LG's industry-leading VRF technology was selected as it excels at sensible cooling and the modularity of the design enables the overall system to properly condition the varied spaces throughout the theater and event spaces despite the heating and cooling load changes caused by shifting occupancy. The Lido House, Autograph Collection by Marriott LG was identified as the ideal solution due to its expansive offering, design flexibility and energy-efficient units Designed with an effortless sense of style and definitive beach-house vibe, Lido House by Marriott has quickly become one of Newport Beach's favorite upscale destinations. The Lido House features 130 stylish guest rooms, along with five unique cottages – each curated by a local designer, paying homage to the unique ambiance and coastal lifestyle of the affluent community. The resort also includes a full-service restaurant, rooftop deck and full day spa for guests. With a location just minutes to the beach, the property often faces fluctuations in weather and temperature, necessitating an HVAC solution that provides year-round heating and cooling with superior energy efficiency. Once plans for the design were complete, LG was identified as the ideal solution due to its expansive offering, design flexibility and energy-efficient units. The Lido House management team specified LG's Multi V 5 and Multi V S VRF systems, both known for incredible energy efficiency, flexibility in design and installation options. The team also installed two LG AC Smart central controllers to help building managers effectively control the HVAC system throughout the main building space. "LG is continually focused on bringing the most innovative, energy-efficient and forward-thinking HVAC solutions and controls to customers across a range of projects, from iconic institutions to luxury hotel properties and everything in between," said Kevin McNamara, senior vice president and general manager, LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA. "We're challenging the industry standard with our suite of award-winning solutions and helping building owners, managers, architects and contractors better plan for and manage a variety of installations."

Johnson Controls will enhance classroom environments throughout three Tennessee school districts – a combined 22 schools – with projects estimated to be completed this fall. Updates throughout the districts will include infrastructure, energy management and water conservation strategies to address deferred maintenance and improve efficiencies. Energy Savings Performance  The school districts partnering with Johnson Controls include Lake County School District in Tiptonville, Overton County School District in Livingston and Smith County School District in Carthage. The combined $7.7 million in improvements are enabled through Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC) and Tennessee’s Energy Efficient Schools Initiative (EESI). These engagements will help fund project implementations using guaranteed savings to offset the cost of the upgrades. The HVAC unit provides air conditioning in a gym that previously had no temperature regulating systems Lake County School District’s $1.6 million in improvements include LED lighting, Wi-Fi thermostats, window and cooling tower replacements, and an HVAC rooftop unit above the district’s high school gymnasium, completed in May. The HVAC unit provides air conditioning in a gym that previously had no temperature regulating systems. Upon completion, Lake County will have realized more than $1.9 million dollars in energy, operations and maintenance savings, guaranteed over the 16-year agreement. The district also utilized a Tennessee Valley Authority incentive to fund electrical needs. Energy savings “Through our partnerships, we can help Lake County, Overton County and Smith County School Districts capture energy savings that can be reinvested to address deferred maintenance and improve district learning environments.” said, Ryan Ball, Performance Infrastructure Account Executive, Johnson Controls “For years, our gymnasium has been uncomfortable for classes and graduations. The installation of air conditioning is a monumental step towards improving the comfort and productivity of our learning environment for students and faculty,” said Sherry Darnell, Superintendent, Lake County Schools. Partnering with Johnson Controls “Partnering with Johnson Controls not only allowed us to make necessary infrastructure upgrades that will help enhance energy and operational efficiencies, but also to truly understand what implementations were vital for our unique needs and goals.” Overton County School District is implementing $2.9 million to improve its infrastructure, including the installation of HVAC rooftop units, LED lighting, energy management systems and water conservation methods, as well as boiler, pump and WSHP unit replacements. These upgrades will result in $3.5 million in energy, operations and maintenance savings, guaranteed over the 12-year agreement. The district can then reinvest these savings into additional curriculum upgrades for students, including Advanced’s STEM Program, to foster a more creative and productive learning environment. Energy management systems Smith County School District’s energy efficiency upgrades include LED lighting and energy management systems Smith County School District’s energy efficiency upgrades include LED lighting, water conservation methods and energy management systems. The $3.1 million in improvements will also be used to install access controls, in addition to the replacement of its cooling tower, boiler and pumps, WSHP unit and PTAC unit. These updates will help the district provide a more comfortable, efficient and safer learning environment for students and faculty. Upon completion, Smith County School District will have realized over $5.6 million dollars in energy, operations and maintenance savings over the 12-year agreement, allowing for these savings to be reinvested into additional student resources, including Advanced’s STEM Program. STEM Program “Through our partnerships, we can help Lake County, Overton County and Smith County School Districts capture energy savings that can be reinvested to address deferred maintenance and improve district learning environments,” said Ryan Ball, Performance Infrastructure account executive, Johnson Controls. “These improvements will help further the mission of each school and enhance student and faculty comfort and productivity.” Johnson Controls has a long history of working with K-12 schools and educators throughout North America to create environments that inspire and engage both students and faculty. Through Performance Infrastructure projects, we have helped 1,018 schools modernize equipment and building systems, improve infrastructure and energy spend, and address on-going maintenance needs.

Together with its partners and customers, Viessmann is expanding its involvement in China. The family-run company has built a new plant in Pinghu, a city close to the metropolis of Shanghai. The plant was inaugurated on November 5, 2019. Wall-mounted gas boilers will be manufactured here on a floor area of 12,000 sq. m. The site also has a research and development center for new technologies and services. Viessmann's Pinghu facility Through this newly acquired proximity, we will be able to supply the market with solutions even more effectively" “We see an enormous potential on the Chinese market. Because of that, we decided to expand our production capacities here,” said Dr. Martin Viessmann in his welcome address. The inauguration of the Pinghu site, approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Shanghai, represents a further milestone in the company’s involvement in China, which extends back over 20 years. The new site is centrally located in one of the most important commercial areas of the country. In addition to Viessmann’s partners and customers, many suppliers are also based here. “Through this newly acquired proximity, we will be able to supply the market with solutions even more effectively,” said Martin, CEO of the Viessmann Group. Altogether, the company has five sales offices and hundreds of showrooms. China, major HVAC solutions and equipment market “China is one of the most important markets in the world, not only for individual heating systems but also for innovative and comfortable living,” said his son Maximilian Viessmann, co-CEO of the Viessmann Group. The country is a true champion of innovation, especially concerning digital applications – and is therefore also a role model for Europe. “We want to make the most out of these opportunities,” said Maximilian. Alongside their Chinese partners, the goal is to create living spaces for generations to come. To symbolize this and the joint commitment to climate protection, a tree will be planted in the dry western region of China for each of the attendees present at the inauguration ceremony. Wall-mounted gas boilers The plan is to constantly expand the manufacturing of wall-mounted gas boilers and increase the capacity in the medium term from one to three production lines. In addition to a tour through the manufacturing area, the program also included an ‘Experience Tour’ for the guests of the inauguration – which included representatives from the management, politics and around 70 Viessmann partners. The Integrated Solution Offering of Viessmann was presented during the inauguration using a typical Chinese housing scenario as an example. Vitopure water treatment system Viessmann is offering the Vitopure water treatment system for the purification and softening of drinking water In addition to heat, clean drinking water is also one the basic human needs. Because of that, Viessmann is now also offering the Vitopure water treatment system for the purification and softening of drinking water. Water treatment using the Vitopure system can also ensure the optimal efficiency and durability of heating systems. A further core theme of the ‘Experience Tour’ was the seamless networking of heating systems and services – the also an important step in creating comfortable living spaces for generations to come. Integrated Solution Offering Viessmann is constantly evolving from a heating manufacturer to a solutions provider for the complete living space. For this, the company develops seamless climate solutions that fill people’s surroundings with the optimal room temperature, warm water, energy and good air quality. In its Integrated Solution Offering, Viessmann seamlessly unites products and systems through platforms and digital services on the foundation of the right energy source. On top of that, it also offers a variety of additional services. The focus here is on finding the right balance between renewable energy sources and obtaining the maximum energy efficiency from fossil fuel sources.

AAON, Inc., global manufacturer of heating and cooling products, has selected Sospes’ EHS management software as its environmental, health and safety platform partner for its operations in Oklahoma, Texas and Missouri. AAON products are regularly recognized as industry-leading, most recently winning awards in July 2019 for excellence in product design in the 16th annual Dealer Design Awards Program. Sospes’ EHS management software Sospes’ EHS software improves communication between workers and their companies Sospes’ EHS software improves communication between workers and their companies, creating a collaborative environment for improving safety and productivity. “As a leading manufacturer of HVAC equipment, safety is a priority for AAON. Our company has continued to experience rapid growth over the last several years, and we recognized that our safety programs need to keep up with the rest of our growth,” said Scott Asbjornson, AAON Chief Financial Officer. “This software will allow us to be more efficient, and we look forward to working with Sospes and their innovative approach to safety management.” Safety management “AAON is a remarkable manufacturing success story, and like any manufacturing operation, their employees are faced with workplace hazards,” said Tom Carson, President of Sospes. “We are proud to have been selected as their partner in safety management and look forward to supporting their commitment to worker safety and continuous process improvement.” AAON is engaged in the engineering, manufacturing, marketing and sale of air conditioning and heating equipment consisting of standard, semi-custom and custom rooftop units, chillers, packaged outdoor mechanical rooms, air handling units, condensing units, makeup air units, energy recovery units, geothermal/water-source heat pumps, coils, and controls. Data analytics and task management Sospes’ award-winning EHS management software makes organizations better by engaging employees with easy incident reporting, accountable task management and powerful data analytics, all within a single integrated mobile application.

A high performance Carrier air-to-water heat pump is delivering comfortable ambient conditions for children and staff at Yew Tree Nursery in Axbridge, Somerset. Carrier’s AquaSnap 61AF heat pump was selected to replace an oil-fired heating system that was proving unreliable and inefficient. The Carrier unit captures low-grade heat energy from the atmosphere and upgrades it to generate hot water for use in the nursery’s underfloor heating, radiators and domestic hot water supply. Carrier, a pioneer in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions, is a part of Carrier, a global provider of innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies. Tested and charged with refrigerant “We chose the Carrier system as it enables you to match the exact requirements of an application, rather than simply supplying a standard factory-specification product, as with some other manufacturers,” said Tom Mangnall, who led the project for contractor, Somerset Mechanical Ltd. It was delivered fully assembled, tested and charged with refrigerant and only required power and water connections" “The other major attraction was the plug-and-play design of the AquaSnap monobloc. It was delivered fully assembled, tested and charged with refrigerant and only required power and water connections, which saved time on site and reduced installation costs.” Provides hot water up to 55 degrees Celsius The unit, which has an A+ energy rating, includes a soft-start system for low power draw, and freeze protection to maintain operation when outdoor temperatures dip. Even in temperatures down to minus 20 degrees Celsius, the unit can provide domestic hot water at up to 55 degrees Celsius. In addition to providing clean, reliable, high performance heating, it freed up space at the nursery, as the bulky fuel-oil storage tanks required by the previous system are no longer needed. “The AquaSnap 61AF heat pump is compact and very versatile, and ideal for heating and domestic hot water production,” said Russ Tyrrell, senior technical sales engineer, Carrier. “We believe it has huge potential for wider use in the UK, particularly in similar applications that currently rely on oil-based systems. It is an ideal solution for use in homes, apartment buildings, shops, offices, restaurants, hotels, warehouses.”

Reynolds, one of the biggest fruit and vegetable suppliers in the UK, has taken delivery of two new specialist vehicles for operation inside London’s new Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ). Both vehicles feature Carrier Transicold refrigeration technology and have been supplied by SHB Hire. Carrier Transicold is a part of Carrier, a globally renowned provider of innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies. Engineless refrigeration system 95% of our fleet is Carrier-cooled, so when we set out to explore new ways of cutting our emissions" The new additions include a 26-tonne IVECO Stralis, with a body from Paneltex, mounted with a Carrier Transicold ICELAND 18 TWINCOOL refrigeration unit. A former demonstrator vehicle, it becomes the company’s first engineless refrigeration system in its truck fleet. It is joined by an all-electric Renault Kangoo van, fitted with Carrier Transicold’s ultra-slim NEOS 100, which also runs on electrical power, and converted by CoolKit. Together, the two systems directly support Reynolds’ plans to lower its commercial vehicle fleet emissions. “95% of our fleet is Carrier-cooled, so when we set out to explore new ways of cutting our emissions, we naturally put our faith in Carrier’s latest technologies,” said Steve White, head of fleet support, Reynolds. ICELAND TWINCOOL unit The undermount ICELAND TWINCOOL unit joins a truck and trailer fleet cooled by a range of existing Carrier Transicold products, including the proven Vector, Supra and Xarios ranges. It becomes the first system in the fleet to be driven by Carrier Transicold’s ECO-DRIVETM power module, which runs on hydro-electric power generated by the trucks’ ultra-clean Euro VI engine. Because it runs on the hydro-electric power generated by the engine, there is no need for a separate diesel engine, helping to cut emissions and improve fuel efficiency. The ICELAND stands out for its ability to supply 100% refrigeration capacity even at the truck engine’s idle speed, while keeping sound levels below 60 dB(A) for PIEK-compliance – a combination which makes it ideally suited to the intensive, multi-drop delivery routes Reynolds operates in London. NEOS 100 system The all-electric Kangoo van features Carrier Transicold’s roof-mounted, 12-volt NEOS 100 system The all-electric Kangoo van features Carrier Transicold’s roof-mounted, 12-volt NEOS 100 system designed to run entirely on electric power from the vehicle’s alternator. However, because an electric Kangoo does not use an alternator, an autonomous power source was supplied by conversion specialist, CoolKit. “To power the NEOS we fitted our own refrigeration power system, developed especially for these types of fridge van conversions,” said Cameron Javed, fleet sales specialist, CoolKit. “We specified this system because it does not draw power from the vehicle’s battery, meaning the range it can travel is not reduced and the unit can maintain power for longer.” NEOS’ monoblock construction The NEOS’ monoblock construction makes it simple to maintain, coming pre-charged from the factory with less than 1kg of refrigerant R134a. Its design avoids the need for assembly in the field or the use of open road compressors, which can both increase the risk of gas leakage in operation. Operating out of Reynolds’ depot in Waltham Cross, both vehicles will deliver fresh fruit and vegetables on multi-drop routes across central London, in operation up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Reynolds was established in 1945 and is a family-owned business with a 250-strong commercial vehicle fleet which it uses to supply the UK food service and catering industry. Carrier Transicold helps improve transport and shipping of temperature controlled cargoes with a complete line of equipment and services for refrigerated transport and cold chain visibility. CoolKit is a renowned manufacturer of refrigerated vehicles and utilizes innovative materials and advanced techniques to deliver temperature-controlled vehicle solutions.