It’s that time of year again, where summer is in full swing and air conditioning units become our best friends. However, you might not know that there are a number of ways you can help someone’s home have the most optimal temperature possible, and the way it’s being done is getting increasingly modernized. Just as technology continues to evolve, so do trends in the HVAC industry.
While you may already be familiar with trends such as smart thermostats, digital zoning, geothermal/solar HVAC systems, and DeVAP, the breadth of HVAC technology actually goes even further than one might think. In fact, it’s an industry that’s modernizing in multiple areas, and these are just a few examples. Here are four trends you need to know about if you’re studying for a career in HVAC.
1. Smart HVAC: A Tool You’ll Probably See Down the Road in Your HVAC Career
No, smart technology isn’t just for your phone. The HVAC world has been experimenting with ways to make air conditioning more efficient and future-forward. Using technology such as mobile apps, motion sensors, and even thermostats, smart HVAC is increasingly becoming a trend in the industry, with technology already available to control an HVAC system remotely. Some HVAC systems and smart thermostats can even alert you about necessary maintenance. Considering how often HVAC systems can break down, this technology is ideal for those looking to modernize their home — and a fascinating tool for those in an HVAC career, as well.
Smart technology has increasingly become a common presence in the HVAC world
2. HVAC Technicians Know Duct Sealing is Effective and Simple
Thanks to companies like Aeroseal, this technology may not seem too futuristic in nature, but is no less impressive. As ductwork can start to become cracked and/or worn out with time, duct sealing can help solve the problem to avoid affecting the performance of your HVAC system — or worse, leakages. Through a water-based substance being sprayed onto the ductwork, it works to seal holes and cracks in vents and air ducts. In other words, it can stop ducts from leaking and humidity from entering your home, all while your energy bill starts tumbling down.
3. Hot Water Recirculating Systems: A Plumbing System You’ll See as an HVAC Technician
Here’s a technology that can go right under your kitchen sink and save you time as well. By moving hot water quickly from a water heater to a faucet, hot water recirculating systems move water without waiting for it to rise to warmer temperatures, and without the need for low water pressure. Often being activated by a thermostat, the hot water recirculating system is also known for its capacity in saving water, as some types of recirculating systems can save up to 15,000 gallons of water per year.
HVAC technology can often be controlled remotely from a smartphone
4. Work on 3D Printed Air Conditioners During Your Career
You might be dealing with some odd shapes and sizes if you want to become an HVAC technician. Using a 3D scanner and computer-designed 3D model, you can make a digital copy of an object to build and use as an air conditioner, which then soaks water like a sponge, letting air pass through it. As a result, water evaporates and the air becomes cooler. Users can get creative with customizing it as well, as they can configure parts and its design to fit their needs. These printers are so impressive that the very first one was sold in China in 2015 for around 40,000 yuan (or more than $7,600 today in Canadian dollars).
Looking to study at an HVAC college?
Contact North American Trade Schools to learn more about our HVAC Technician diploma program!
