Green HVAC: Flattening the Learning Curve

The HVAC industry is evolving as the demand for green HVAC changes the way mechanical engineers conduct business. As building owners and operators seek opportunities to reduce energy costs and their buildings’ emissions, green presents a very strong growth opportunity for the industry.

HPAC Engineering's December issue features an article that explores the learning curve in innovation and the challenges of green HVAC systems in both new construction and renovation. When correctly designed and constructed, green HVAC systems provide many benefits for a building owner, not the least of which is a smaller utility bill. Owners also can expect an improvement in indoor-air quality, a quieter building, reduced maintenance costs, and extended life of installed equipment with a properly designed system and maintenance plan.

Green HVAC systems, such as underfloor air distribution, displacement ventilation, and active chilled beams, have widely different design and operating characteristics, and each one offers a solution to a building owner that may have a significant influence on building design.

The authors also contend that green modifications in an existing building may be limited by the building’s structural integrity. Also, be prepared to work with the building owner to develop an accurate and safe schedule and communicate with all stakeholders throughout the process.

New innovation in software for direct digital controls could unlock even more flexibility and scalability that can change the way energy is consumed. By virtually any criteria, the future of the HVAC industry is a green one.