HVAC equipment and safety standards are changing constantly. With even more changes ahead for 2023, you need to know what is required of you and your system to remain in compliance with industry standards.
The Importance of HVAC Knowledge
As a homeowner, you need to know about your HVAC system for several reasons. Understanding how your system works can help you troubleshoot and fix minor issues that may arise. Committing to a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule can improve your system’s efficiency and longevity, potentially saving you money on energy and repair costs.
Moreover, having knowledge of your system will allow you to make informed decisions when upgrading or replacing equipment. Read on to see how big changes in the HVAC industry could impact you, and what you can do to improve your current system situation.
New Testing Standards
The M1 standard for HVAC testing is changing in 2023. The purpose of this higher standard is to ensure that metrics, data values, and test conditions can capture more accurate and reliable performance evaluations of HVAC systems.
HVAC systems are currently tested using SEER, EER, and HSPF. With the introduction of more stringent guidelines, the new tests will be conducted according to SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2 measurements. The testing procedures are part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s efforts to improve HVAC efficiency and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
Emphasis on Renewable Energy Resources
The HVAC industry is also moving toward the use of renewable energy resources for new units. The use of geothermal and air-source heat pumps can improve energy efficiency by drawing on ground heat and air to regulate temperatures in homes and buildings. These systems are much more energy-efficient and have a lower carbon footprint when compared to their fossil-fueled counterparts.
Hybrid HVAC systems use solar power to heat water and air for the system. This is yet another way to reduce carbon emissions while making a move toward cleaner, more sustainable energy. Many manufacturers are developing new technologies that combine renewable resources with traditional systems to make them more cost-effective.
Increased Development of Smart Technologies
Many newer HVAC systems are now being integrated with smart technologies. Thermostats can be controlled remotely, putting the power to regulate temperatures in your home in your hands even when you are not there.
Smart sensors collect data and analyze it for the purpose of providing accurate information related to heating and cooling needs. This information can be used to monitor and adjust temperatures in different parts of your home, depending on which rooms you use most. Building automation systems can seamlessly integrate a number of HVAC functions and other systems in your home, unifying all into a single platform that can be controlled remotely to optimize energy efficiency and comfort.
Increase in Demand for Ductless Systems
Ductless heating and cooling systems are becoming increasingly more popular, as they don’t require the expense and mess of installing ductwork in a home. Their ease of installation makes them ideal for retrofitting existing homes or for new construction where running ductwork is neither practical nor desirable.
Many homeowners prefer ductless systems due to the fact that they naturally regulate indoor air quality; they do not circulate debris and allergens like traditional systems that use ductwork to push air through your home. Ductless systems also offer zone control, meaning that they are able to heat and cool rooms of your home independently without the need to regulate your home throughout.
Advancements in Air Filtration
Recent advancements in air filtration are making it easier than ever to monitor and improve indoor air quality in the home. HEPA filters, once an industry standard, are becoming even more efficient at removing pollutants, allergens, and other particles from the air.
The use of ultraviolet irradiation can kill microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses by destroying their DNA. This technology is being integrated into new HVAC systems to improve efficiency and ensure the highest quality of indoor air.
Smart filtration systems continuously monitor air quality samples and adjust both fan speed and filter replacement recommendations accordingly. With these technologies in place, you can feel good about providing your loved ones with a cleaner, more efficient system that protects against potential health consequences.
Paying a Bit More for New Technologies
With recent advancements and higher standards for HVAC equipment and systems, one can expect that prices for new models will be a bit higher than in previous years. Another factor playing a part in increased costs is due to supply chain issues, which continue to affect manufacturing and shipping companies responsible for helping create new technologies. Even so, the energy-efficient savings one can expect to yield from these new technologies easily justify the upfront cost of a new HVAC system.
Let’s Find the Perfect HVAC System for Your Home!
Proudly serving valued clients in Drexel Hill and the surrounding areas, O'Brien Heating & Air Conditioning offers top-quality services. You can turn to us for heating and cooling repair, installation, and maintenance. We also offer indoor air quality, water heater, and commercial HVAC services. Contact us today to see how we can reduce your energy costs and improve your system function!
