Without technology, quarantine would be much worse for many of us. We wouldn’t be able to communicate with medical professionals, we wouldn’t be able to keep our children engaged with online learning, and we wouldn’t be able to waste away hours on Netflix.
Sure, telehealth programs, entertainment devices, and other digital technology are extremely important during this nationwide quarantine; but innovative HVAC technology is just as crucial.
Sustainable Technology
Conserving energy and saving money is important 100% of the time — especially during a global pandemic. Millions of Americans have lost their jobs and are struggling to stay on top of their monthly bills. Making the switch to smart, sustainable appliances can offer significant savings.
In fact, sustainable thermostats like the ecobee thermostat can pay for itself in under two years (compared to a 72-degree hold) by keeping energy usage low when no one is home.
HVAC and the IoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) has become commonplace inside U.S. homes. IoT sensors and inter-device connectivity around the home has the capacity to truly revolutionize the entire HVAC sector. According to ACHR NEWS, Johnson Controls IoT has already resulted in significant savings and positive customer experiences, including:
- Reduction in mean time to repair of 65% by using the dashboard to understand what tools and resources are needed before rolling a truck to speed up the repair process.
- Reduction in unexpected failures by 66% by using the CPI index and other tools to predict failures and prevent future issues.
- Reduction in cost of PM/PdM maintenance cost of 11% by utilizing continual monitoring of faults and CPI index to perform maintenance only when needed and eliminating some of the previous hour-based tasks.
Self-Operating HVAC Systems
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has found its way into the HVAC sector, as well. According to GlobeSt, BrainBox AI is now using its technology to manage self-operating HVAC systems for commercial and residential buildings. This process can result in significant energy savings, as much as 25%.
BrainBox AI, an organization aimed at decreasing HVAC costs, has announced an $8.6 million fundraising round to expand its reach as property managers and homeowners look to cut costs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtually Training the Next Batch of HVAC Contractors
Due to the coronavirus, students who previously were gaining experience in the field aren’t able to do so. The Los Medanos College Appliance and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Service Technology program trains students to work on HVAC units, as well as other household appliances. Since course training requires students to work hands-on, the campus closure has challenged the way students can learn these essential skills.
According to IMC Experience, Appliance Service Technology is offering a way for students to learn and practice various HVAC skills through online videos. The program has already been extended from the end of May to June 30, a response a number of other technical programs across the country have now followed.
HVAC technology is essential and thankfully, whether there is a global pandemic or not, the sector continues to grow.
