Greener comfort

Temperature fluctuation has become common, with cold regions experiencing extreme cold weather and tropical regions facing constant heat waves. However, humans need the optimal temperature to perform daily activities, and weather changes can hamper them. For this, we need efficient, sustainable HVAC systems to avoid aggravated mishaps caused by nature. This article explores the innovations shaping the future of eco-friendly HVAC solutions.

The law of demand states that what people want and what is available determines how the market functions, and the global demand for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility is increasing. Supply creates its demand as a colloquial expression, highlighting that the HVAC industry is emerging to meet these demands. We need sustainable HVAC technologies that reduce the ecological footprint to meet carbon neutrality and make the environment optimal for survival. 

These technologies can also save long-term costs, improve indoor air quality, and contribute to overall well-being. Energy-efficient HVAC systems are for improving indoor environments and supporting built environment systems. They regulate temperature and humidity levels, providing thermal comfort and creating ambient working spaces. Many strategies can be utilised to maximise HVAC efficiency sustainably. Our major goal has to be the creation of energy efficiency that improves all sectors –  buildings, transport and industry, through advanced technologies and sustainable design.

Energy-efficient HVAC systems

Energy efficiency has always been a critical factor in HVAC design, but in recent years, new technologies have improved the energy performance of heating and cooling systems. These systems use less energy to deliver even better results than earlier models. This is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimising operational costs. Integrating smart technology into HVAC systems may reduce energy use. Smart thermostats allow users to optimise their HVAC systems and adjust temperatures accordingly. The thermostats can also be controlled remotely, allowing users to fine-tune their systems even while away.

Low GWP refrigerant and VRF/ VRV technology

Switching to low-GWP refrigerants significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to HFC, CFC and HCFC refrigerants. Matteo Galenda emphasises that HFOs and natural refrigerants, such as hydrocarbons like propane, CO₂, ammonia, etc., have a negligible impact on global warming if released into the atmosphere. Their thermodynamic properties can improve the energy efficiency of HVACR systems. Pankaj Mehta, Managing Director at Carrier Transicold, India & South Asia, recommends incorporating energy-efficient refrigeration, advanced insulation and solar-powered systems to optimise sustainability.

The development of VRF systems is an innovation in energy-efficient HVAC technology. These systems use refrigerant for cooling and can balance the cooling or heating needs of spaces. These systems are adaptable. The ability to control temperature improves efficiency. By adjusting refrigerant flow to the required levels, they use less energy in air conditioning systems. The capability to recover and reuse heat in different areas of a building further increases energy efficiency. It makes VRF systems a preferred option for sustainable HVAC solutions.

Until today, VRV technology has saved much CO2 emissions compared to any other fossil fuel solution. According to Bernard Dehertogh, Deputy General Manager DX at Daikin Europe N.V., decarbonising the building sector requires flexible refrigerant options due to varying application challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. CO2 VRV inherits all the VRV benefits: it is quick and easy to design and install and contains precise climate zone control options. Bringing the Eurovent-certified CO2 VRV signifies a Major milestone in the future VRV/VRF market transition. Using CO2 has many key benefits. CO2 is a natural refrigerant classified as non-flammable (A1) according to ISO817. With a GWP value of 1, it has a very low Global Warming Potential.

Renewable energy integration

Nowadays, the emphasis is on renewable energy. Integratingration of renewable energy into HVAC systems can help build sustainable and low-carbon buildings. The synergy between HVAC systems and renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal impacts reducing building emissions.

One significant opportunity lies in integrating renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power into energy systems to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. According to Mihir Sanghavi, these are major contributors to minimising greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar energy is one of the most effective ways to improve the sustainability of HVAC systems. Solar-powered HVAC systems integrate solar panels with traditional heating and cooling units to provide clean, renewable energy. These systems supplement the energy needs of the HVAC system in the building. In large commercial buildings, solar thermal energy systems generate hot water, which is then distributed through the building’s heating system. Solar-powered air conditioning systems use photovoltaic panels to power the cooling unit, reducing costs.

Matteo Galenda notes that the expected increase in renewable energy availability will lead to regulating HVAC unit consumption, avoiding demand peaks, and limiting the use of fossil fuels.

Geothermal and hybrid systems

Geothermal HVAC systems offer highly efficient heating and cooling. They have a high initial installation cost due to the need for ground loops or wells, but over time, they can offer savings on energy bills. They also have a minimal environmental impact, making them preferred for sustainable HVAC in residential and commercial buildings.

Hybrid HVAC systems combine traditional heating and cooling methods with renewable energy solutions like solar panels. These systems can automatically switch between renewable energy and grid power, eliminating the need for non-renewable energy sources. During periods of low solar energy, the system can easily switch to grid power or use other backup options. This flexibility makes hybrid HVAC systems reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining comfort. Hybrid systems of air conditioning and ventilation are the way forward. Advances in compressor technology, such as variable-speed and oil-free designs, will give better performance and reduce energy use.

Smart technologies

AI and IoT have become essential components of the industry, shaping its future. In the HVAC sector, these technologies provide smarter solutions to decarbonisation. AI-driven predictive maintenance minimises system downtime and improves performance by detecting potential problems early, which supports maintenance teams.

Mihir Sanghavi, Managing Partner at Auro Engineering, thinks that Smart controls enabled by the Internet of Things (IoT) for dynamic temperature adjustments based on real-time data will improve overall efficiency. 

The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart building technologies offers an opportunity to optimise HVAC performance and improve sustainability. Matteo Galenda, CAREL Application Specialist at HVAC Residential, says that Smart control systems, such as smart thermostats and IoT sensors, can be installed indoors. Having an adequate heat distribution system and appropriate building insulation is fundamental. These technologies make HVAC systems more intelligent in monitoring and managing energy consumption.

IoT technology enables HVAC systems to communicate with other smart devices in a building. It allows for real-time data collection and analysis, leading to better energy management. Sensors placed in a building can monitor temperature, humidity, air quality, and occupancy levels, providing HVAC systems with predictive maintenance capability. For instance, if the air quality drops, the system can increase ventilation to improve indoor air quality without much energy use. This kind of intelligent integration saves energy and costs.

 Predictive maintenance in HVAC

AI and machine learning are being incorporated into HVAC systems to predict maintenance needs before they become costly. Predictive maintenance uses data from sensors and historical performance trends to determine if a component will fail. This reduces downtime and prevents inefficiencies caused by malfunctioning components. IoT and AI facilitate predictive maintenance, anticipating and reporting faults, and avoiding system downtime and operational inefficiencies. Predictive maintenance prolongs the life of the equipment and minimises energy waste. Thus, the HVAC unit can operate efficiently, contributing to a sustainable environment.

Way forward

Hybrid systems of air conditioning and ventilation are the way forward. Hence, retrofitting insulation and adopting energy-efficient appliances lower energy demand and emissions. The innovations in sustainable HVAC systems are shaping the future of climate control, focussing on energy-efficient solutions, renewable energy integration, and smart technologies. Sustainable HVAC technologies are important against climate change, offering innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon footprints, and improve building performance. With advancements such as energy-efficient heat pumps, solar-powered systems, geothermal HVAC, IoT integration, and smart maintenance, the HVAC industry is moving toward a greener, more sustainable future.

High-efficiency HVAC systems provide the best indoor comfort and control humidity and air quality. Due to increasing urbanisation and population, energy demands rise, and environmental concerns grow. Embracing these sustainable HVAC technologies will be essential for building owners, businesses, and homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact and operational costs. Investing in energy-efficient systems aligns with the global vision of a sustainable and eco-friendly future.

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Mihir Sanghavi, Managing Partner, Auro Engineering.

Integrating renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power into energy systems reduces reliance on fossil fuels, impacting greenhouse gas emissions.

Pankaj Mehta, Managing Director, Carrier Transicold, India & South Asia

Incorporate energy-efficient refrigeration, advanced insulation and solar-powered systems to optimise sustainability.

Bernard Dehertogh, Deputy General Manager DX at Daikin Europe N.V.

Decarbonising the building sector requires flexible refrigerant options due to varying application challenges.

Matteo Galenda, CAREL Application Specialist HVAC Residential.

HFOs and natural refrigerants have a negligible impact on global warming. Their thermodynamic properties can improve the energy efficiency of HVACR systems.