Tomorrow’s HVAC will be Smarter, Greener and more Efficient
The future of residential Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) is shaping up to be smarter, greener and more efficient. As technology advances and climate concerns grow, here’s what to expect:
Smarter
Thermostats and HVAC systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI) will learn residents’ preferences and automatically adjust for comfort and efficiency in homes. In addition, more HVAC units will be connected to smart home systems, allowing for remote control and predictive maintenance.
HVAC systems will deliver precise temperature control in different parts of the house, reducing energy waste.
Greener
Ultra-efficient and sustainable systems will become the norm. Heat pumps, for example, are becoming more efficient and effective in extreme temperatures, making them a dominant choice for both heating and cooling in more parts of the world. At Jansen Heating & Cooling, more and more of our heater and cooler installations involve heat pumps.
Magnetocaloric and solid-state cooling technologies could replace traditional refrigerants, offering cooling with much lower energy use.
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, already common in commercial buildings, will likely become more popular in homes for their efficiency and flexibility.
VRF was invented by Japan’s Daikin Industries, Ltd. in 1982. Similar to ductless mini-split systems, VRFs use refrigerant for cooling and heating, but are usually less complex than conventional chiller-based systems.
The refrigerant is conditioned by one or more condensing units (which may be inside or outside, water- or air-cooled), and is circulated within the home to multiple indoor units.
VRF allows for varying degrees of cooling in specific rooms (because there are no large air handlers, only smaller indoor units), may supply hot water in a heat recovery configuration without affecting efficiency, and switch to heating mode (heat pump) during winter without additional equipment, all of which may result in lower energy consumption.
Also, air handlers and large ducts are not used, which can reduce the height needed above a dropped ceiling.
Eco-friendly innovations
Governments are phasing out harmful refrigerants like R-410A in favor of low-global-warming-potential (GWP) alternatives.
More homes will integrate HVAC with solar panels and battery storage to reduce grid reliance.
Better insulation, dynamic windows, and smart ventilation will minimize the need for mechanical cooling and heating.
Healthier and more efficient
HVAC systems will integrate advanced home air filtration and purification options like HEPA filters, UV-C light and ionization to remove pollutants, allergens and viruses.
More homes will adopt Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) systems that improve fresh air circulation without losing heating or cooling efficiency.
More homeowners may invest in geothermal heat pump systems, which use underground temperatures for ultra-efficient heating and cooling.
Some urban areas might move toward shared heating/cooling infrastructure for efficiency and cost savings for individual households.
What it all means for homeowners
In the near future, smarter and more efficient HVAC systems may mean lower energy bills.
We will all have more hands-free control over home temperatures.
Some of the innovations coming down the pike might be pricier initially, but they’ll pay off in efficiency and durability. You won’t have to replace your equipment as often, which will drastically cut the long-term cost of home comfort.
Call Jansen to take advantage of energy-saving innovations
It’s an exciting time to be in the HVAC business. We look forward to home comfort becoming more affordable for our customers throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
We already offer many of the options listed above. As further innovations become cost-efficient, Jansen’s heating and air conditioning service will be among the first local companies to offer them to our customers.
Particularly when it comes time to think about replacing your equipment, Jansen can help you find excellent options that fit your budget.