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Soleus Air Conditioner Review: A High-Quality Brand?

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If your home, office or workspace does not have central air, you have two choices: purchase an in-window or wall mounted air conditioning unit or a portable one. If you do not want to install an air conditioning unit, your best bet is a portable model. This Soleus air conditioner review will cover the advantages of a Soleus LX-140 and a few other models that may suit your cooling needs.

When deciding whether to buy a portable air conditioner, you must consider a variety of factors such has how energy efficient a unit is, how well it will perform, and if it is easy to operate. Portable air conditioners differ from their mounted counterparts. They are louder and every model requires an exhaust hose for venting hot air and sometimes water. 

Evaporative coolers are an excellent choice if you want to cool your space without the hassle of an exhaust hose but they are not as effective as a standard air conditioner. We designed this review to make your search for a portable air conditioning unit easier. Let’s begin with our featured product, the Soleus LX-140.

What Is the Soleus Air Conditioner LX-140?

The Soleus Air LX-140 is a powerful air conditioner suited for a variety of settings. It can cycle a maximum of 225 cubic feet of air per minute for cooling, one of the best airflow ratings available on a portable unit. The LX-140 can be used for more than air conditioning, it can also circulate air, and dehumidify too. The dehumidifier is capable of removing 2.5 pints of moisture out from the air per hour. This is especially valuable in humid climates. A bonus to having the dehumidifier is that it captures the water and draws it into a self contained well that can be emptied when full.

The unit is also energy efficient and portable. That said, it weighs in at 83 pounds, heavier than many other units, so it may be difficult to transport for some people. Nevertheless, it is an excellent air conditioner for the price.

Product Specs

The LX-140’s coolant features a three-speed adjustable fan mode. It also has an evaporative air conditioning option with 14,000 BTU cooling power. That is enough to cool even the hottest spaces. The visual design of the LX-140 makes it easy to integrate into any space without it being an eyesore.

Despite its small size it can cool a room up to 525 square feet. Although it is portable, you can opt to install it in a window using the window kit. This unit requires outside ventilation via an integrated hose. With that in mind, the LX-140 has a 60 pint evaporative humidifier which you can safely ventilate into an attic or ceiling without worry of introducing humid air into that environment.

Pricing

The average cost of a portable air conditioner is two to three hundred dollars. Higher end models can cost six to seven hundred dollars. On the higher end of cost you will get a unit suited for industrial use. More expensive residential units also have technology upgrades like Wi-Fi, voice control, and the ability to pair with Alexa and other smart devices which allows for remote operation. Cheaper models are suited for cooling smaller rooms in a home or office with no bells and whistles.

How It Compares

To provide you with a greater variety of options on this Soleus air conditioner review, we picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare.

  • Honeywell Air Conditioner MN10CESWW
  • FRIGIDAIRE Cool Connect Smart Portable Air Conditioner
  • LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner

Ivation 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Ivation 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi for Rooms Up to...
Ivation 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi for Rooms Up to...
  • CLIMATE CONTROL FROM YOUR SMARTPHONE | All-in-One Wi-Fi Enabled Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier & Fan Helps You Achieve...
  • POWERFUL COOLING, DRYING & AIR CIRCULATION | High-Capacity Unit Delivers 10,000 BTU/Hr [ASHRAE Rating] & 6,500 BTU/Hr...
  • EXTREMELY PORTABLE FREESTANDING DESIGN | No More Blocked View! | Travel-Friendly Cooling Tower is Lightweight & Compact...
Check Price

Price $

Features

For the price, this unit is packed with features. It has a cooling system, fan or evaporative options, and dehumidifier. It also has a window mount kit for those who prefer window mounting over the standard portable use.

Portability

At 83 pounds this air conditioner is portable, but not exceptionally so. That said, it is on wheels, so it can be rolled as long as stairs or ledges are not inhibiting it.

Performance

This unit performs exceptionally as long as it is used in a space that does not exceed its cooling capacity.

Warranty

This unit has a one-year limited parts and labor warranty.

Pros

  • Smaller size
  • Easy install
  • Dehumidifier
  • Remote control
  • Programmable for 24 hours

Cons

  • Exerts negative airflow
  • Noisy
  • 9.5 gallon bucket may fill quickly in more humid environments

Honeywell CL25AE

Honeywell 500 CFM Indoor Portable Evaporative Cooler with Fan &...Check Price

Similar to the featured model of this Soleus air conditioner review, the Honeywell MN10CESWW has a three-speed fan setting, dehumidifier, and cooling modes. It is a portable unit capable of cooling rooms up to 450-square-feet. A bonus is the low cost of running this unit, about 90 dollars annually. That said, it is not as energy efficient as some other models.

This air conditioner does have lower airflow at 174 cubic feet per minute so it takes about a half hour before you start to feel its effects. It has a cooling power of 10,000 BTU. The dehumidifier runs constantly, regardless of whether you have chosen the setting. In cooling mode it removes a maximum of 2.8 pints of moisture from the air per hour. Unlike our featured model, it does not have an internal well. Instead it requires ventilation via a window to dispense with the excess water.

The MN10CESWW features a straightforward remote control with a timer setting. It lacks a sleep mode, so the temperature does not adjust as you rest. Also it cannot auto restart, so loss of power means the room it is situated in may be warm if no one tends to the machine. It is worth noting the ventilation hose is only 3.9 feet long, so this model has to be situated near a window or other ventilation outlet.

Price $$

Features

Overall we like the features on this unit. However the lack of an internal well combined with the shorter hose length makes us give this air conditioner 3 stars. That said, if you have an easily assessable window for ventilation the aforementioned barriers may not matter.

Portability

We find this unit to be highly portable.

Performance

While this unit works well, the lack of sleep settings or an auto start makes us give it four stars.

Warranty

This unit has an excellent five-year compressor warranty and a standard one-year appliance warranty.

Pros

  • Remote control
  • Timer
  • Can cool larger spaces

Cons

  • Short ventilation hose
  • No internal well
  • No auto start.

Whynter ECO-Friendly 11000

Whynter ARC-110WD 11,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier,...Check Price

The Frigidaire Gallery FGPC1244T1 is an energy efficient feature rich unit ideal for in-home cooling. It can cool rooms up to 550 square feet and has a maximum airflow rating of 200 CFM. The FGPC1244T1 has a dry mode setting capable of removing up to three pints of water from the air conditioner per hour. A unique feature of this model is the use of oscillating louvers that help circulate the air for fast even cooling.

The approximate yearly cost of running this unit is 94 dollars, making it relatively energy efficient. A huge bonus is that the FGPC1244T1 is very quiet for a portable unit with a sound output of only 53 decibels. It also has built in wifi so the unit can be controlled from a smartphone or even by voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant. A built in ionizer, remote control, and machine washable filters put this unit over the top.

Price

Features

There are very few features this unit does not have. It is outfitted with a 24-hour timer, remote, auto restart, ionizer, dehumidifier, voice control, Wi-Fi, sleep mode, and so much more.

Portability

Despite technically being portable, one of our biggest issues with this unit is that it is 78 pounds. Carrying it is not easy, but its wheels can help with transport as long as scaling steps, rolling over thick carpet, or lifting are minimal.

Performance

This air conditioner performs well.

Warranty

This unit has a five-year compressor warranty and one-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • 24-hour programmable timer
  • WiFi
  • Ionizer

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Expensive

LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner

The LG LP0817WSR stands out on our Soleus air conditioner review list because it can only cool rooms up to 200 square feet. It is best for a small home office, bedroom, or other small spaces. As with the other units on our list, it excels at removing humidity from the air. The compact size of this air conditioner, which stands 27 inches high, makes it easy to move and incorporate into any room. However, despite being small, it is slightly noisy. The sound is reminiscent of loud white noise.

Although this unit has a modest price, it still has useful features such as a remote control and an easy-to-read LED display panel. There is a 24 hour timer, programmable auto restart, and an auto shut off. There is also an optional window kit. Overall we feel this unit is an ideal budget air conditioner.

Price $

Features

Although this unit isn’t packed full of features, for its price it is a well outfitted machine. The remote control 24-hour timer, auto start, and LED screen add quality to this bargain priced unit.

Portability

Since this air conditioner is highly compact, it is the most portable unit on this Soleus air conditioner review comparison list.

Performance

As long as you stick to rooms sized appropriately for this air conditioner it performs well.

Warranty

This unit has a one-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • Compact
  • LED screen
  • Easy to transport
  • Optional window kit

Cons

  • Only cools very small rooms
  • Lacks isolated dehumidifier
  • Noisy for its size

Conclusion

That concludes our Soleus air conditioner review and comparisons list. Considering other comparable products, we have to give our featured unit, the Soleus LX-140, four stars. While it lacks the excessive bells and whistles of its more expensive competitors, like the Frigidaire Gallery FGPC1244T1, it is soundly outfitted for optimal cooling and convenience. We feel the maximum space it can cool will meet the needs of most homes and offices, and we like the dehumidifier, fan, and evaporative options.

The fact the Soleus LX-140 has an internal well, separates it from most of the other air conditioners on our list. It prevents the need to use the hose to leak water pulled from the air by the dehumidifier and opens up more options for ventilation, including attic ventilation. We are impressed with the fact that it comes with an optional window kit for those who would prefer to use it as a permanent room fixture. That said, if you plan to keep things portable, it is lightweight enough to move about on its wheels.

Although we are happy with the unit overall, we must admit the industry standard one year limited warranty was a disappointment. Especially considering similar options came with an extended five-year warranty on the compressor, a useful perk if you plan to use the air conditioner regularly. We also wish there was a remote control for this unit. Nevertheless, we cannot ignore the relatively quiet and superior cooling capabilities of our featured model. It manages to hold its own easily.

We tried to provide a very specific and carefully chosen variety of air conditioners that embodied what is currently available on the market. That said, we feel the Soleus LX-140 merges a quality cooling product with the essential elements needed to make it easy to use and effective. Should you need something for a larger space, or are a tech junkie looking for your next fix, you may find one of our other options ideal. However for a straightforward cooling system with optimal power and the ability to get the job done, the Soleus LX-140 is sufficient.

The 10 Best HVAC Vacuum Pump Options to Purchase

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​Image Source: yellowjacket.com

​Most air conditioning systems available today require a critical charge for optimal operation. They are sensitive to moisture and contaminants that can cause the system to freeze up, corrode the metals, and contaminate the oil. Moisture must be removed before the critical charge, and that is where the HVAC vacuum pump comes into play. With so many products available on the market today, choosing the best HVAC vacuum pump can be mind-boggling. Never fear, we have taken the guesswork out of selecting the best HVAC vacuum pump by reviewing the top models available. Read on to discover our pick for the best HVAC vacuum pump.

HVAC Vacuum Pump FAQs

Before we move on to our list of the best HVAC vacuum pumps, we will take a moment to answer some frequently asked questions on the subject.

1. What Is an HVAC Vacuum Pump?

An HVAC vacuum pump is a vacuum that lowers the atmospheric pressure inside an HVAC system to remove the moisture from it. An HVAC vacuum pump evacuates contaminants from the air conditioning system to prevent freezing and leaks.

2. What Is an HVAC Vacuum Pump Used for?

An HVAC vacuum pump can be used to service and repair household and automobile HVAC systems, sealing jars for preserving food, recharging refrigerators and freezers, degassing wine or epoxy, hot-forming plastic, milking animals, and much more.

3. Where Can I Purchase an HVAC Vacuum Pump?

We have provided links to the HVAC vacuum pumps reviewed in this article. Click on the link to purchase the product. All the HVAC vacuum pumps reviewed in this article are available on Amazon.com.

​How We Reviewed

The following products were reviewed based on the following parameters: Features, Pros & Cons, Price, Where to Buy, and Warranty.

​Overall Price Range

Pricing for HVAC vacuum pumps varies. The HVAC vacuum pumps reviewed in this article range in price from around $55 up to $525. The price of each HVAC vacuum pump has been given a rating of $, $$, or $$$, where $ represents a price at the lower end of the range, and $$$ represents a price at the higher end. Prices with a rating of $$ are considered mid-range.

What We Reviewed

  • ​Robinair (15500) VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump
  • ​ZENY 3
  • ​Kozyvacu 5CFM 2-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump
  • ​Yellow Jacket 93560 6CFM
  • ​TMS 3 CFM Single-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump
  • ​FJC 6912
  • ​MASTERCOOL 90066-A
  • ​ARKSEN 1/2HP 5 CFM
  • ​XtremepowerUS 3CFM 1/4HP Air Vacuum Pump
  • ​Robinair 15800 VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump

Robinair (15500) VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Robinair VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump is a heavy-duty, high-performance 2-stage rotary vane vacuum pump designed for air conditioning and refrigeration service. It features a 5 CFM free air displacement, a factory rating to 35 microns, and a 7.5-ounce oil reservoir.

The unit features a 1/3 HP thermally protected motor with an inlet fitting designed for maximum airflow while preventing oil backflow. The finned aluminum surfaces dissipate heat faster to keep the pump cooler and extend the life of the unit. It has an easy-to-read sight glass, an easy-access oil fill port, and an oil drain valve on the bottom of the oil reservoir that is angled for complete draining.

Pros

  • ​Factory rating to 35 microns
  • ​Oil reservoir of 7.5 ounces
  • ​Thermally protected 1/3 HP motor

Cons

  • ​Does not have a shut-off switch
  • ​Must unscrew the exhaust cap when in use
  • ​Drain plug leaks oil

Price $$

Where to Buy

Warranty

This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

5 Gallon Tempered Glass Lid Vacuum Chamber with Pump

11

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Zeny 3 is constructed with a heavy-duty aluminum alloy casing and an internal high-volume cooling fan for extended use. It features an exhaust port with an exhaust cap, an oil sight glass for monitoring oil levels, and an on/off switch. The pump has a non-slip cushion handle and a visual fuel tank to prevent oil shortage and motor burnout.

The unit comes with a bottle of vacuum oil. The high-quality capacitor ensures the stability of the machine output and the intelligent radiator senses when something is stuck and will protect itself and prevent it from burning out. The direct drive motor allows for easy, maintenance-free starting.

Pros

  • ​Heavy-duty aluminum alloy casing
  • ​Oil sight glass to monitor oil levels
  • ​Includes a bottle of vacuum oil

Cons

  • ​Does not run long in high temperatures
  • ​Must drain oil between uses to prevent oil leaking
  • ​Oil spews out of the top while in use

Price $

Where to Buy

Warranty

​ This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​Kozyvacu 5CFM 2-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Kozyvacu 5CFM 2-Stage Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump features a high-torque design for easy startup and efficient operation. It has a die-cast aluminum housing to make the pump durable and lightweight. It is maintenance-free and easy to start. The motor is thermally protected for durability. The oil drain valve is positioned at the bottom of the oil reservoir and it is angled for complete draining.

The oil fill port is accessible from the front or either side for easy filling. The pump features a sight glass that shows the oil level. This unit delivers high efficiency with a low noise level.

Pros

  • ​High-torque design
  • ​Die-cast aluminum housing
  • ​Easy-access oil fill port

Cons

  • ​Motor does not engage immediately
  • ​Does not have a gauge
  • ​Smokes until high vacuum is achieved

Price $$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​ This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​Yellow Jacket 93560 6CFM

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Yellow Jacket Vac Pump features a heavy-duty rotor and bearing. It has a heavy-duty steel handle for well-balanced carrying. The unit has a 1/2 horsepower rating. The unit is field rated to 15 microns. It has a garden hose attachment for the oil exhaust port.

Pros

  • ​Heavy-duty rotor and housing
  • ​Heavy-duty steel handle
  • ​Field rated to 15 microns

Cons

  • ​Motor locks up
  • ​Overheats easily
  • ​Unit is heavy

Price $$$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​ This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

ZENY 3,5CFM Single-Stage 5 Pa Rotary Vane Economy Vacuum Pump

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The TMS Vacuum Pump is a rotary vane, deep vacuum pump, perfect for maintaining air conditioning systems. The pump will remove contaminants before charging the air conditioning system with refrigerants. It will easily remove air from a/c systems and it will easily fill an empty system. The internal cooling fan allows the pump to stay cool during extended use, extending the life of the pump.

The oil window provides visibility to oil levels and oil quality for easy maintenance. This pump can be used to seal jars to preserve food, hot forming plastic, de-gasification processes, and much more. The pump features a non-slip cushioned grip and a heavy-duty aluminum casing.

Pros

  • ​Internal cooling fan keeps pump cool during extended use
  • ​Oil window provides visibility to oil level and quality
  • ​Heavy-duty aluminum housing

Cons

  • ​Requires 1/2″ to 1/4″ adapter that is not included
  • ​Burns/spews a lot of oil
  • ​Poorly translated manual is confusing

Price $

Where to Buy

Warranty

​ This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​FJC 6912

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The FJC Vacuum Pump 5 CFM uses twin-port technology for two-stage performance. The pump will remove moisture and non-condensable gasses that can destroy an a/c or refrigeration system. It features a 1/3 HP motor that runs at 1725 RPM. The unit has a 12-ounce oil reservoir. This pump pulls 75 microns.

Pros

  • ​Twin-port technology for two-stage performance
  • ​12-ounce oil reservoir
  • ​1/3 HP motor

Cons

  • ​Unit smokes while in use
  • ​Oil leaks during shipping
  • ​Poorly packaged

Price $$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

Robinair (15115) VacuMaster 

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Mastercool Vacuum Pump features a thermally protected motor for safety. It also has a built-in cooling fan to maintain temperature and avoid overheating with prolonged use. It completely evacuates and will easily pull 75 microns at 1/4 horsepower. The base of the product is stable. It features an oil indicator and an easily accessible drainage valve. The unit is lightweight and designed for residential use.

Pros

  • ​Thermally protected motor
  • ​Built-in cooling fan
  • ​Easily accessible drainage valve

Cons

  • ​Does not have a gas ballast valve
  • ​Only for residential use
  • ​Leaks oil at sight glass

Price $$$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​ This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​

Robinair (15310) VacuMaster Single 

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Arksen Single Stage 1/2 HP Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump achieves 10-6 bar to remove air from air conditioning systems with ease, and will quickly fill an empty system. It features an internal cooling fan to ensure the pump stays cool during extended use for a long life. The unit has an oil window to provide vital information regarding oil level and oil quality.

The pump will quickly remove moisture and air from air conditioning systems. The direct drive motor is maintenance free and starts easily. The oil drain plug is located at the bottom of the oil reservoir for easy drainage. The unit has an on/off switch, a non-slip contoured carrying handle, and an exhaust port with cap.

Pros

Cons

Price $

Where to Buy

Warranty

​This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer

​XtremepowerUS 3CFM 1/4HP Air Vacuum Pump

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

XtremepowerUS 1/4 HP 3 CFM 1-Stage Rotary Air Vacuum Pump has high efficiency and low noise output. It features an internal high-volume cooling fan to maintain appropriate temperature during extended use. The unit has a heavy-duty, die-cast aluminum alloy casing that allows the pump to be both lightweight and durable. It is equipped with brass fitting tethered safety caps to prevent oil from leaking during transportation.

The HVAC service gauge set is helpful when diagnosing and repairing AC systems. The pump has an oil fill port that makes it easy to add oil. The oil drain plug is beneath the oil reservoir for easy draining when needed.

Pros

Cons

Price $$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​Robinair 15800 VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump

​Image Source: www.amazon.com

Features

The Robinair VacuMaster Economy Vacuum Pump is made for commercial refrigeration use. It features a 2-stage rotary vane design. It has 18.6 ounces of oil capacity. The non-skid feet keep the unit stable while in operation. This pump will displace 8 CFM free air and is factory rated to 40 microns. It has a hefty 1 HP motor that is thermally protected. It features an inlet fitting that is engineered for maximum airflow and prevents oil backflow.

The finned aluminum surfaces dissipate heat to keep the pump cooler and extend the unit’s life. The pump has 1/4″ and 3/8″ MFL inlet fittings, an easy-to-read sight glass, an easy-access oil fill port, and an oil drain valve on the bottom of the oil reservoir for total draining.

Pros

Cons

Price $$$

Where to Buy

Warranty

​This product carries a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.

​The Verdict

​Based on our research, we believe that the best HVAC vacuum pump is the XtremepowerUS 3CFM 1/4 HP Air Vacuum Pump. The gauge set included with the pump helps diagnose and repair HVAC systems. The high-volume cooling fan enables the unit to be used for extended periods, and the heavy-duty, die-cast aluminum alloy casing makes the unit both lightweight and durable. You will not be disappointed with the XtremepowerUS Air Vacuum Pump.

What Size HVAC Do I Need? The Ultimate Sizing Guide

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Is this this the answer to my question, what size HVAC do I need?

Image from Amazon

Utility bills are a sizeable part of any household budget. When you live in a cold or warm climate, and especially one with severe summers and winters, your HVAC heating bills can leave you feeling like there’s a hole in your wallet. Some households must even go on level payment plans to afford their bills during the hottest and coldest months. To keep their homes affordable, households need to slash energy costs wherever they can. Did you know that the size of your HVAC unit is one of the biggest factors in heating/cooling costs? That’s why we found the answer to the question, What size HVAC do I need?

What Size HVAC Do I Need?

Determining HVAC size needs relies on calculating the British thermal units (BTU) required to heat/cool your home. Once you have the BTU number, it’s a matter of selecting an HVAC unit with the right BTU rating.

Classic America Ductless Wall Mount Mini Split Inverter Air Conditioner

Image from Amazon

Accurately determining BTUs requires an extensive calculation, which can be performed by an HVAC professional. Though you can guesstimate BTU needs based on square footage, there are too many other factors for the estimate to help you fine tune your HVAC setup and save on your monthly bills. Here are the two steps you must follow to answer the question: What size HVAC do I need?

Step 1

Daikin 24,000 BTU 17 SEER Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner Heat Pump System

Image from Amazon

To answer the question, What size HVAC do I need, you first must calculate how many BTUs your home requires to stay adequately heated or cooled. HVAC pros often use a manual calculation to make this determination. This method is preferable because it uses precise measurements to calculate a much more accurate answer.

The manual calculation considers the following factors:

  • The home’s square footage
  • Climate considerations
  • Ductwork
  • Numbers of windows and style
  • Shade/sunlight
  • Insulation
  • Number of residents
  • The effect of heat-generating appliances

Many utility companies will complete an energy audit that determines BTUs needed at no cost to the customer. If your utility company doesn’t provide this service, you can hire an independent energy auditor or an HVAC dealer to conduct the audit. They will produce a report that shows how many BTUs are needed to keep your home comfortable.It’s also possible to use your home’s square footage to gain a rough estimate of BTU needs. Though more convenient, using square footage just doesn’t provide the accuracy of the manual calculation. Square footage estimates can’t account for factors like climate, window types, insulation, shade/sunlight and other factors unique to your home.

daikin

Image from Ama​​zon

The below chart provides a rough estimation of BTU needs based on just square footage:

House Square Footage BTUs Needed

100 – 150

5,000

150 – 250

6,000

250 – 300

7,000

300 – 350

8,000

350 – 400

9,000

400 – 450

10,000

450 – 500

12,000

500 – 700

14,000

700 – 1,000

18,000

1,000 – 1,200

21,000

1,200 – 1,400

23,000

1,400 – 1,500

24,000

1,500 – 2,000

30,000

2,000 – 2,500

34,000

Step 2

With your BTU calculation in hand, it’s time to select the best unit for your home. An HVAC dealer can advise you on the myriad of options. In some cases, your options may be limited by the type of HVAC infrastructure you have and the size of the space where it must fit. Many apartments and condos require a certain model, which unfortunately can eliminate choices that may provide more efficient heating and cooling.

Assuming your choices are not limited, the HVAC dealer can demonstrate the units that suit your BTU size. Often, BTU calculations land inbetween sizes. This should cause no concern, simply go with the bigger size. Having a unit that’s a little larger than needed is the best practice anyway. It ensures adequate heating and cooling and provides some extra capacity should the BTU change. For example, if you need more power for air conditioning because of the loss of shade trees. Also, you are covered for unusually cold- or hot spells.

Getting an excessively large unit should always be avoided. When the units are too large, they heat/cool the home too quickly, resulting in too frequent on/off cycles that cause uneven heating/cooling and higher energy bills.

Pro tip:

Limit the maximum size of the unit to 15% over the BTUs needed for cooling and 40% over the BTUs required for heating. Heat pumps, which handle both heating and cooling, should never be larger that 25% of BTUs.

Central Air Conditioning Tonnage and Size

If you need to install a central air conditioning system, determining tonnage is the first step. When it comes to air conditioning, size is a critical component in selecting the right unit. Selecting a unit that’s too big will cost you dearly every time the monthly electric bill arrives. In short, a 4-ton unit to cool a 3-ton spaceI achieves no increased performance level.

When the AC unit is too big, it cools the home too rapidly. As a result, it shuts off before completing its entire cycle. As a result, warm air seeps back in much quicker, forcing the unit on again too soon. This increased turning on and off shoots your electric bill to the moon.

An AC unit that is too small is even worse. Unless you choose a unit that is many sizes too small, the AC will keep the house nice and cool, but it will run almost constantly. Today’s central AC units are designed to gradually cool the home and then remain shut off for longer periods, which saves energy. When the unit is too small, it pumps most of the day in an effort to keep up, increasing your electric bills. On top of that, the AC components are overtaxed, causing them to wear out faster and costing even more money. The overuse is also bad for the environment.

A right-sized central AC system runs through the cycle as it was designed, resulting in even cooling and maximal efficiency.

Tonnage

The goal of calculating AC size is to determine what tonnage you need from your AC system. Tonnage is a measure of how many BTUs an air conditioner can cool in one hour. Each ton represents 1,000 BTUs per hour cooling capacity, so, for example, a 2-ton air conditioner cools 2,000 BTUs per hour. Residential air conditioners range from 1.5 to 5 tons.

How Much Tonnage Do You Need?

To answer the question, what size HVAC do I need when it comes to AC tonnage, use the following formula for average climates:

Square footage * 30 / 12,000 – 1

Hot and arid climates like the desert Southwest require a different calculation. For these climates, using the following formula to answer the question, “What size HVAC do I need?”

Square footage * 20 /12,000 – 0

Though these calculations are helpful in estimating the tonnage need, a professional manual J report is the best bet. The manual J report, which can be conducted by an HVAC pro through from your electric company or an HVAC dealer, takes into account important factors that are unique to your home. For example, how much shade is around your property, the thickness of installation and the type of windows you have. The manual J report will give you the tonnage number need.

Tips for Saving Energy

Getting the right sized air conditioner is a great first step, but there are many other ways to save on your utility bills. Considering that HVAC typically represents 50% to 60% of utility costs, it’s well worth the effort to shore up your HVAC system for increased performance.

Don’t Skip on Maintenance

Religiously changing the filter extends the life of your HVAC system and helps it run more efficiently. When dust and other particles collect in the coil and other areas, the system must condition more air to meet heating and cooling needs. A fresh filter keeps the system clean.

Programmable Thermostat

You may want to keep the house toasty on a cold winter’s day, but do you really need the heat blasting when you’re under the blankets? Program the thermostat to a lower temperature at night and have it automatically adjust upwards shortly before your wake up time.

Invest in Energy Efficient HVAC Equipment

If your HVAC unit is ten or more years old, new, energy efficient equipment is a great investment. The difference in efficiencies will save you every month and you won’t have to worry about costly repairs for a long time. Energy Star rated models save even more.

Insulate

Conditioned air that seeps out of the house costs you money. Adding insulation to walls, windows, pipes, ducts and outlets keep the warm of cool air inside and lead your HVAC system to work less.

Utility bills leave many households tapped out at the end of the month. Stop the cycle of energy inefficiency that has the money seeping out of your bank account by installing new, energy efficient HVAC equipment. Before selecting which HVAC unit to buy, make sure to get a manual J report or accurate BTU estimate. With the accurate BTU or tonnage number, you will know exactly what size unit you need. By having the right-sized unit and practicing energy saving techniques, your home will be more comfortable than ever for less cost.

Best In Flow: A Review Of The Polaris Water Heater

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large sized grey water heater tank

Image by flickr

How much have you been spending on your water bill lately? It might be something you don’t even consider, or it could be one of those monthly notices you dread receiving.

If you need to get a grip on your water heat usage, you might want to look into a new water heater by Polaris. You should be warned up front that is isn’t a cheap investment – it’s going to cost a bit up front. Once you understand this, you’ll be happy with the performance and how much you can save over time.

​Brand  

​Polaris

​Type

​Tank-equipped

​Power range

​100,000 to 199,000 BTU

​Number of models

​7

​Weight

​150-180 lbs.

​Warranty

​10 years

Why Choose A Polaris Water Heater?

Investing in a Polaris water heater is the same as making any other choice for your family’s home. You’re looking for something that will last for a while, not a disposable appliance designed for immediate replacement. As you comb through your choices of tank-equipped water heaters, you’re going to be impressed with everything Polaris has to offer.

American Water Heater, manufacturer of the Polaris brand, takes great pride in their domestic manufacturing. All of the research and corporate handling comes from Johnson City, Tennessee. They deal in residential and commercial water heaters. No matter what time of building you are working with, you can find a Polaris model to fit your needs.

The heaters in this review are gas-powered, and the condensing units contained inside each heater are capable of handling propane or natural gas. If you live in an area of the United States where your electric bill is high, you can take comfort knowing that your water heater will help reduce your utility bill. It won’t matter how large or small your building is, as Polaris is designed for all sizes.

Polaris particularly appeals to bigger families where the use of water is an everyday activity for multiple people. If you plan to have multiple sources of hot water running at once on any given day, this can be a lifesaver. How many times have you waited for a shower, only to find out that the hot water was out and you would have to wait?

Thanks to the recovery rate in hot water, Polaris remains one of the most sought-after names in heaters. With as much as 253 gallons per hour, a Polaris water heater will be one of the best gifts you can give your home. Hot water recovery in this range rivals that of a tankless heater.

Which Model Is The Correct Polaris Water Heater?

All Polaris water heaters can be found in two distinct sizes: 34 gallons and 50 gallons. Of the residential gas models used for this review, a total of 7 models were analyzed. The power in these models went from 100,000 to 199,000 BTU.

The 34-gallon models are lightweight and not as tall as their 50-gallon relatives. 24-gallon Polariswater heaters stand at 48.5 inches and typically weigh 150 pounds. Meanwhile, the 50-gallon variety is 64 inches tall and tips the scales at 180 pounds.

If your family has 4 or less people in the home, you can stick with the 34-gallon variety. Any families with 5 or more members will be better off with a 50-gallon version. One of the 34-gallon models, the PG10-34-100, can recover hot water for 179 gallons with Polaris’ First Hour Recovery feature.

Each model comes with a warranty that lasts for 10 years. You’ll find the Energy Star seal of approval on all of them, ensuring they are compliant with the necessary standards for American appliances.

What Features Make The Polaris Water Heater Stand Out?

​Thanks to the design innovation out of Johnson City, the Polaris line of water heaters outranks the competition in several key areas. You’ll notice how different they seem from other brands in the sections highlighted below.

Heat Transfer

tanks of water heater

Image by flickr

This might shock you, but one of the most important parts of a water heater is how well it heats water. Thankfully, you’ll have no performance issues out of a Polariswith its submerged combustion chamber. Along with the helical flue, the chamber creates a 96% efficient flow of water through the pipes and to your faucet.

The spiral design of the flue makes each tube longer and gives it a bigger contact surface. This way, the heat transfers to a greater amount of water in a shorter amount of time. The heat from the natural gas will directly transfer to the water in close proximity instead of being wasted on anything else.

You will get some condensation out of a Polarisunit, so you’ll need to be sure that a properly-installed drain line is available. Only 1% heat loss was noted during the evaluation of the heaters used for this review, and an extremely low exhaust temperature allowed for smaller vents.

Using A Tank

white water tank heater

Image by flickr

Even with the appeal of tankles water heaters in 2019, you won’t want to give up the Polaris brand. The tanks in each of the natural gas units are built with stainless-steel, all but eliminating the possibility of rusting or corroding in your basement. You also won’t need to put in any anode rods thanks to the material used.

Without the possibility of rust or corrosion, you can look forward to a water heater that lasts for at least a decade. No more routine maintenance calls because it just won’t keep up with the stress of everyday use. Furthermore, if you’ve become familiar with the smell of a rusty appliance seeping up from the bowels of your home, you can say goodbye to that scent.

Efficiency In Clean Combustion

close up look of water heater arrangement

Image by flic​​kr

​The Polaris line comes equipped with a metal fiber burner. Not only is this as resistant to corrosion and rust as the rest of the tank, but it won’t wear down due to temperature or mechanical wear and tear. The burner contained inside the combustion chamber uses a high-intensity blue flame that produces clean, extremely high temperatures that will keep your home safe and minimizes emissions.

The gas burner comes paired with a brushless DC blower, which combines air and gas to produce quiet operation. You’ll never even know your water heater is running until you approach it to check for any necessary maintenance.  

Unlike most water heater models on the market, Polaris uses a hot surface igniter for its natural gas. This is much better than pilot lights that come standards on many other tanked water heaters. It also makes the ignitor more reliable and durable. It’s one less thing you have to worry about as the heater ages.

You’ll notice much less pollution thanks to the clean combustion of the entire heater. This will comply with even the strictest emission standards, including those that can be found in California.

Venting The Pipes

tightly gripped pipe

Image by flick​​r

With a direct venting system, no Polaris model will have to emit gas inside your home. Anything that comes out of the combustion process will be sent through its spiral pipes, away from the rest of your interior.

Thanks to this design choice, you can choose to hook up the Polaris heater to PVC, ABS, or CPVC pipes as long as 120 feet. You can feed these through an outside wall or run them along the roof. Using the inlets, all of the air needed for combustion is taken in through the house exterior.

One thing to note is the process of water heating used in Polaris. Because of its engineering, you won’t be able to use any Polaris water heater in a mobile home.

Modern Touch

huge grey water heater tank

Image by fl​​ickr

If you ever have a problem with your Polaris heater, chances are you can diagnose it yourself. The digital interface collects everything you need to know about the performance of the heater and tells you what’s happening on an LCD panel. In the event of a total failure, the processor will shut off the heater completely.

You or the technician you work with will have an easy understanding of what to fix should a problem arise. If you ever need to replace the control board inside, don’t worry. Each Polaris water heater comes with a unique control key that imports data to a new board.

Installation Rookie

big dog searching for something near the water heater tank

Image by flickr

A Polaris heater is put into your home in largely the same manner as any other unit. Provided you have the correct connections for your electricity, water hookup, gas, inlet, and exhaust all in place, you won’t need to make any other adjustments.

In case you need to make any repairs, all that’s needed is the access panel located in the front of the tank. This allows you to easily dig into the elements of the heater.

Safety First

warning sign

Image by flickr

Rest assured that American water Heaters has your family’s safety in mind when they designed the Polaris line. All Polaris models are compliant with “flammable vapor ignition resistance” standards, ensuring that open flames are only created inside the combustion chamber. You can easily check the temperature on the digital readout, and adjust it with the controls provided.

You will find two switches for the safe operation of the Polaris heater. They are blocked on the outlet and the intake switch. If the heater detects an obstruction in either an exhaust or intake pipe, or the blower stops operations, one of the switches will send a signal to kill any potential ignition. 

There is also the Energy Cut-Off switch, which automatically ceases any operation from the heater when the temperature gets too high. The value for the temperature is set by Polaris.

How Does The Polaris Water Heater Work?

Using the blower located at the bottom of the water heater’s tank, the Polaris will ignite to create a mixture of air and gas, which will be delivered through the blower system. Afterward, the hot surface ignitor fires the gas in the main burner.

If no problems are found in the combustion chamber, the blue flame is created. This flame evenly heats the burner, resulting in clean combustion and a minimal amount of emissions.

Where Should You Put A Polaris Water Heater?

The great part of a Polaris heater is its versatility in heating. Not only will it work as a water heater, but it multitasks as a space heater. This is due to its air and hydronic heating systems contained inside. Using the circulation pump and a recirculation system, you can bring hot water into a house or business even faster.

If you combine the Polaris heater with a solar setup, you’re looking at a massive return on investment after purchasing the unit. All you need is the initial heating process done through a Polaris gas heater and your solar backup system can take care of the rest.

Taking The Plunge And Buying A Polaris Water Heater

There are very few alternatives to a Polaris water heater that can stand head and shoulders with this brand. Yes, you’re going to pay extra at the onset, and the price tag might be intimidating depending on the size of the heater. What this doesn’t show you is the amount you will not be paying for repairs, heating utilities, and another heater within a few years.

Other companies should take their design standards and compare them to American Water Heater. After owning one of the Polaris models, you may wonder how you and your family ever put up with another unit. With incredibly low emissions, unparalleled energy efficiency, and a simple computer readout for diagnostics, you won’t be able to part with the Polaris in the future.

There are few better investments you can make as a homeowner than a hot water heater that stays reliable throughout the years. Nothing has the ability to make living a miserable experience than a lack of hot water, especially if you have a large family.

With Polaris, you won’t have to concern yourself with emergency phone calls to technicians during holidays. Look past the price tag and think of your family’s future when buying a Polaris water heater.

Rating:

Different HVAC System Types: Everything You Need To Know

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Living in comfort is something that many people have come to expect. With advancements in technology, it’s possible to keep our homes at the optimum temperature throughout the year. This is due to the different HVAC system types that we can use.

The ability for humans to create the ideal environment inside our homes means that we can live in a variety of different places. From places that get extremely hot to others that see a lot of snow, whatever is happening outside isn’t a problem because we can keep our house at the temperature that makes us the most comfortable.

What Are HVAC Systems?

HVAC stands for “heating, ventilating, and air conditioning.” They are systems that can be found in residential homes but also in commercial buildings. They are the systems that regulate temperature and make it comfortable for people to be inside of these various buildings.

If you’ve ever seen those large air conditioner boxes on the top of a building, including apartment buildings, then you’ve seen part of the HVAC system. You may have even noticed some on the outside of your neighbor’s home. Of course, these are just a few of many HVAC system types. More than likely, depending on where you live, you probably have an HVAC system in your home.

How HVAC Systems Work 

hvac system on a rooftop

Image Source: Pixabay.com

At the simplest level, the HVAC system works by regulating the temperature inside a home or building. It does this by utilizing the heater during the colder months and the air conditioner when it gets hot outside.

Digging deeper into the setup of this system, there are four main components that keep the temperature in your home regulated. All of these have to work together to ensure that the optimum temperature is maintained throughout the year.

Temperature Component

When it comes to an HVAC system, this component is responsible for producing both warm and cool air that circulates throughout your home. There is often two parts that accomplish this tas:, the furnace and the air conditioner.

The furnace part of the system uses natural gas or oil to heat the air. Inside the furnace is a heat exchanger which is responsible for heating the air to the desired temperature you have chosen. The furnace is often placed in a specially designated closet, the attic, or in the basement.

The air conditioner part uses electricity and coolant to reduce the air temperature to keep the house cool. It forces the hot air outside. Like the furnace, it has a place where the air is cooled to the desired temperature before it is pumped into your home.

Ductwork

ventilation ducts inside a building

Image Source: Pixabay.com

These are the tubes that are placed throughout a home or business that transfer the warm or cool air to where it needs to go. More often than not, the ductwork is hidden in the ceiling, behind walls, or in the floor. Vents are placed strategically throughout the room and allow the cool or warm air to circulate throughout the area.

In some cases, a home or building might have exposed ductwork. Whether they are hidden or exposed, they serve the same purpose in different HVAC system types.

Thermostat

This is, in essence, the brains of the entire system. It is how you turn the furnace and air conditioner on and off and where you set the desired temperature. There can be one thermostat that controls the temperature of the entire house, or there may be separate ones in each room.

When it comes to a commercial building, depending on the size and type there may be one thermostat or multiple. More than likely, if the building is an apartment complex, each apartment will have a thermostat that will allow them to control the temperature in each room.

There are different types of thermostats, from dials to digital. Some of the best thermostats to have are programmable ones. These allow you to set various temperatures throughout the day. When you are at work, you can set the temperature higher (or lower if it’s winter) so that the system isn’t constantly running. You can do the same at night. This can be beneficial in saving you money on utility bills.

All of these components have to work together for the HVAC system to work the way it should. If there is a problem with the ducts, then air won’t flow throughout the building. If there’s an issue with the thermostat, then the house may not be as cool or warm as you would like. Any issues that you might encounter will more than likely have to be taken care of by a professional.

4 HVAC System Types 

graphic illustration of a split type aircon

Image Source: Pixabay.com

While there are four main components that make up any ​HVAC system, there are four major HVAC system types. Below are some of the most common systems you might find in a home or commercial business.

Split Heating and Cooling Systems

These are probably the most common of the HVAC system types in use in America. They contain components that are both inside and outside your home. They include both a furnace and an air conditioner that are separate from each other. More than likely, the air conditioner is located outside while the furnace is inside your home.

Despite being separate, the system still works together to ensure that your home stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They include the four main components to keep your home comfortable no matter what time of the year it is.

Hybrid System 

In many ways, this system is like the traditional split system. The only difference is that it allows the heat pump to be fueled by electricity instead of gas. The hybrid system also has a heat pump that helps with heat and cools the refrigerant when needed. This can be useful if you find that the price of gas is incredibly high and want to save some money.

The popularity of this system has been on the rise recently with homeowners. It doesn’t look much different from the traditional system and it functions in much the same way, but the ability to switch from gas to electricity can save money and energy in your home.

Duct-Free Systems 

While ducts are a main component of the system, they don’t always have to be included. For homes where putting in ducts would be challenging, having a duct-free system can be beneficial. These systems will vary in size, and they still contain the other important components that keep your space warm and cool.

Packaged Heating and Air System

If your home doesn’t have the space for the various components that come with a traditional split system, then you may have to get a packaged system. All of the components are included in one appliance. This can save a lot of space by having the air conditioner and heat pump combined into one unit.

Finding the Right System

ductless hvac systems

Image Source: Pixabay.com

When it comes to the different HVAC system types and finding the one that will work best for you, it’s important to consider your home and the amount of space you have. Most people opt for the tradition split system because it has been proven to be reliable and durable. However, it may not work for everyone.

Talking to a contractor or a central heating specialists can help you determine which system is the best choice. The goal is to make sure that you are cool when the weather gets hot and warm when the weather gets cold. Since every person is different, what that means will have to be determined by you.

Having an up-to-date system can also be beneficial in saving you money on utility bills. It can be a large upfront cost to get this system replaced, but it will eventually pay for itself in the long run. Older units, whether in your home or a commercial business, can waste a lot of energy in comparison to new, energy efficient modules. This can be harmful to your wallet and to the environment. Getting something that is energy efficient is advantageous.

When your HVAC system is working the way it should, you more than likely don’t think twice about it. That’s the way it should be. It should be doing its job effectively in the background and keeping your space at the optimum temperature throughout the year. However, if you find that something has gone wrong or it can’t maintain the right temperature, then getting it fixed is the best course of action to take.

Conclusion 

The advancement of technology has made it possible for us to regulate the temperature in our homes so we can live in a variety of different places. While the components that make up the different systems are basically the same, there are different HVAC system types you can choose from. Finding the one that works best for you, your home, and your environment will make all the difference to your comfort: and your energy bills.

Featured Image Source: Pixabay.com

Economy Effects HVAC Buying Habits

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Economy Issues Affect Change in Consumer Shopping Habits
By Betty Stephens

econ
American household buying habits accounts for around 70% of the U.S. economy. What consumers shop for is seperated  into two main categories.  First, they spending on  such items as food, clothing and shelter.  Second, there is more  discretionary spending.   This is on items such as entertainment or non-essentials.
The good fortune of some and mis-fortune of others have caused financial ups and downs  and a shift in the  shopping habits of Americans have led to uneven outcomes for retailers. Companies like WalMart and Mattel have continued to struggle as people  spend more cautiously in this type of uncertain economy.   Amazon has  however done well, as more consumers choose to shop on line.
Americans are very price conconscious, and will check as many as seven store or web sites for the best price before makes their  purchases.   I believe frugal is the the best word to describe the average American these days.   Internet shopping rose 10% to $46.5 billion in November and December, according to research firm Comscore.  However, sales at  retail stores rose just 2.7% to $265.9 billion, according to ShopperTrak, which tracks data at 40,000 stores in the U.S. And the number of customers in stores dropped 14.6%.

Industry exucutives are starting to say this new American frugallity may be beccoming a new reality and a new permanet way of life in America and they don’t expect to see it go away anytime soon, if ever, even as the economy shows signs of improvement.  With family budgets under pressure since the recession of 2008, consumers have headed to discount stores, switched  from name brand goods to private-label alternatives and shopped more often at discount  stores or online rather than spending on expensive fuel to drive to out-of-town hypermarkets.

Those trends have benefited discounters as well as retailers that have the widest own-label ranges and networks of smaller stores, prompting consumer goods firms to retaliate with brand promotions and smaller packaging.

“If you look at data from Millennials, who have really sort of grown up with this, price is more important to them than it was to the last generation,” WalMart U.S. Chief Executive Bill Simon told the Reuters Global Consumer and Retail Summit, referring to the generation born between 1980 and 2000.

WalMart U.S. is the largest unit of WalMart Stores Inc (WMT.N), the world’s largest retailer which benefited from trading-down during the recession, but cut its forecasts last month, citing weak results in many key markets.

The U.S. economy is expected to pick up towards the end of the year, helping cut unemployment, while Europe’s lack luster recovery looks set to continue, although wage growth will continue to lag inflation, hurting consumer purchasing power.

The Dollar Channel
Dollar store  has been on an upward trend for several years now.  They have had a big impact on the discount store market and are competing head to head with other discount stores on the routine shopping trip stop.  The  Family Dollar Stores are adding cooler space to more than 1,000 locations this year, and Dollar Tree is adding to its food and beverage assortment as well as opening a third-party pharmacy in a Florida location. Efforts like these have contributed to dollar  retailers winning over shoppers from other discount stors.  The most sizeable change  is the shift of heavy drug store  shoppers—the top one-third of spenders within the catagory -into the dollar store family of stores. This is not a big surprise, as the both dollar stores and drug stores  carry many of the same type of goods and both are well positioned, geographically, for easy-access, fill-in trips.
Changing Habits
During the last year, Americans have been making less  but larger shopping trips. Trips declined across grocery and large box stores.  You might think the decline in stock-up trips would hurt Sam’s Club and Costco type stores, however trips have actually increased by 2.1% during the past year due to a number  of factors. The club retailers are expanding the number of stores. Also, club trips are being bolstered by lower gas prices and low food inflation, which makes it easier for them to absorb bulk pricing. The dollar stores  also saw trips increase significantly during the past year, which reinforces the notion that consumers are viewing dollar stores as a “smarter” choice for affordable solutions.
While people will continue to shop, the question now is what will they purchase, when will they purchase and where will they purchase. Name brand items are taking a backseat to generic or store brand products.  Malls are beginning to show signs of weakness – a lot  more stores are closing while consumers make their way to other, more affordable  alternatives. Instead of going to one of the mall’s “anchor stores,” they are now going  to places like WalMart, Target or K-Mart to purchase the things their families “need” rather than the things their families “want.”

econgraphics from Google Images

HVAC Future Trends

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Future Trends for HVAC Industry
By Betty Stephens

trends

HVAC technology is constantly changing due to new discoveries and influences outside the industry. As recently as this century, central, indoor climate control was available to only a privileged few. Today, even central air-conditioning in homes is common in the U.S. Improvements occurred through a number of factors such as technical, market changes, energy and environmental concerns, and political decisions. Changes continue to occur and they benefit of our customers and are our part of our future.
Environment:
The environment has possibly had more influence on HVAC technology than has energy. The environment will continue to impact the industry into the foreseeable future.
Policies regarding climate change have also directly impacted our industry. As we design and operate more energy-efficient equipment and systems, we use less energy, energy that, in many cases, comes from burning CO2-producing fossil fuels.
The environment will continue to impact the industry. The industry has proven that it can respond in a timely way. As new environmentally friendly products are developed, those products are also more energy efficient. Adopting new technologies and supporting research will help our industry meet the challenges of the future.
User-Friendly Controls
While smart, Wi-Fi-connected thermostats promise significantly increased energy efficiency, the real draw for homeowners seems to be how easy the interfaces are to operate. Take the Nest Learning thermostat, for example. It is programmed by the user to remember his preferred temperature settings. If the user prefers the thermostat to kick in a faster, warmer temperature, on cold, wintery mornings, the Nest thermostat will store that information and adjust the temperature accordingly. The thermostat also monitors temperature with humidity and activity sensors, and it can determine regional climate by the user punching in their zip code
Wireless-controlled thermostats present HVAC data in a language that contemporary consumers understand. Homeowners are accustomed to easily digestible, visual representations of information and data. The reporting tools that smart systems include take the mystery and obscurity out of an industry that has been thriving on overall complacency from its customers.

DEVap Air Conditioning
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed the DEVap (desiccant-enhanced evaporative air conditioner) in 2011 and estimates that it reduces air conditioning energy usage by 40-90 percent. So far, DEVap is found primarily in commercial buildings, and the technology is so new that it’s difficult to find for residential use. But, given how promising the innovation seems, and how cost-effective it has already proven to be, and is anticipated great gains in the future.
Zero Energy Buildings
Zero-energy buildings that produce energy instead of just using large quantities will gain traction with companies that target eco-friendly employees and consumers. Many businesses are already headed in this direction with geothermal heating and cooling, solar-powered systems, and white roofing. If HVAC manufacturers can work to design structures that are both energy efficient and comfortable for their residents, we’re sure to see some fresh companies take on the challenge.
Variable Refrigerant Flow Systems
A popular trend in Eastern markets, variable refrigerant flow (VRF) is the future of the HVAC industry. Though US market have yet to reach the demand experienced abroad, VRF systems are establishing their place as in-demand items for housing and commercial cooling needs. Simple and elegant in design, VRF systems connect an outside condensing unit to several fan coil units throughout the building. Each coil and evaporator in the system can be controlled individually to reduce waste from over-allocated resources. The shift will stimulate job growth and overall economic development throughout the HVAC sector that will continue well into the coming years.
Career Trends
Current industry trends indicate a future growth rate of nearly 28% nationwide. This trend is predicted to continue until 2018, a total period of researching and studying 10-year industry trends beginning in 2008. Studies have revealed that once the results of that research and those studies are complete, there will be nearly 395,000 individuals who make their living in the HVAC industry, and choose to make this their lifelong career Choice.   The rate of change in our industry will be exponential. Some changes will be caused by improvements in technology whereas others will be the result of influences outside our immediate control. As engineers, we have an obligation to be proactive in encouraging changes that are of benefit to the society we serve. This in turn will have direct benefit to our industry and to each of us individually.

In Summary
Building Management Systems and air-conditioning controls systems will develop to become:

• Intelligent self-learning systems that measure the performance characteristics for the building and its systems for different ambient and occupancy conditions and using thermal modelling technology are able to operate the buildings systems to provide the require conditions whilst minimizing energy consumption and plant wear and tear.

• Self-checking systems that are able to eliminate the fly by wire problems that many systems suffer from, which the head end computer is thinking one thing is happening however in the field the actuality is very different.

• Self-diagnosing systems that are able to determine fault conditions analyses the cause and report or even rectify the condition, systems that are able to recognize fault situations that are resulting in excess energy consumption or unacceptable equipment wear and report.

• Systems with seamless remote access, diagnosis and control functionality.

• Systems with the flexibility to take advantage of wireless technology and the onboard intelligence that is already starting to be installed in items of central plant

future