4 Trends Shaping Commercial HVAC
Property owners are always paying attention to cutting-edge trends to improve their buildings. However, some people might not realize the importance of staying up-to-date on emerging commercial heating and cooling trends. Not only can modern upgrades enhance energy efficiency, but new trends can also help save on costs down the line. Whether you are part of new development in Beaverton or managing a downtown Portland office, better your enterprise with tips from your local HVAC company.
HVAC Trends for Your Business
Here are the top four elements shaping the future of air conditioning and heating units:
1. Eco-Friendly Heating and Cooling Equipment
In the Pacific Northwest, we always strive to care for our environment, and now HVAC technology trends have caught up to eco-conscious thinking. Environmentally friendly air conditioning and heating systems are on the rise. Unfortunately, some older units rely on non-renewable fuels to produce energy for commercial buildings. Luckily, modern systems, which utilize Energy Star-rated equipment, help reduce our carbon footprint and slim down utility costs over time.
Solar and wind-powered units are also gaining in popularity. They don’t require as much fossil fuels to operate and can still produce enough power to maintain ideal indoor air climates. If you want to go green in your commercial property, consult with one of our NATE-Certified technicians to discuss the best options.
2. Ductless HVAC
Some businesses are moving away from central air units and upgrading to ductless or mini-split systems. Central air requires space to house intricate ductwork. However, commercial buildings don’t always have extra area to dedicate to large heating and cooling equipment. On the other hand, duct-free systems don’t need as much interior space to control indoor air climate properly. Instead, units can be placed on rooftops allowing for easy installation. What’s more, since duct systems can lose 20%-30% of energy through ductwork, mini-splits can be an energy-efficient solution to commercial heating and cooling.
3. Software-Based Control Systems
Automation is a growing trend in HVAC technology. Thanks to smart devices, today’s building owners have complete control over all aspects of temperature, airflow, and humidity levels. All from their phone or computer. Not only does this new tech give property owners the ability to adjust their energy output from anywhere, but it can also help collect important data over time. This data can then be used to track usage, inform your HVAC contractor during scheduled maintenance, and even signal potential problems.
4. Full-Building Automation Systems
Building Automation Systems (BAS) take heating and cooling tech to the next level. BAS fully integrates with your HVAC units, lighting, security, and other systems your commercial property uses. BAS can manage all your base operations through wireless zone sensors, from turning down the thermostat when a room is unoccupied to setting the alarm when the building is empty.
What Trends Benefit Your Commercial Property?
Before diving into upcoming trends for your building, it’s essential to get some professional advice to mitigate any issues. For example, if you are considering an upgrade to a mini-split, you’ll likely want to have a design consultation with your local HVAC installer to ensure you are getting enough energy output. When thinking about any changes to your existing equipment, make sure you partner with a company familiar with commercial building needs.
Commercial HVAC Contractors that Understand Emerging Trends
At AAA Heating and Cooling, we know the ends and outs of cutting-edge technology and how it can help your commercial property. With over 50 years serving the community and a wealth of expertise in commercial heating and cooling, it’s no wonder we are considered Portland and Beaverton’s HVAC experts. Schedule an appointment today.