New HVAC Technology to Look for In Your Next Air Conditioning System
Though we are only just nearing the end of the chilly winter months, the hot weather will be here before you know it. The start of spring is often the best time of year to have your HVAC system serviced in Phoenix, Arizona. Better now than when it’s already sweltering and having to wait longer for a technician to get to you. If you’ve been unhappy with your current Air Conditioner and are considering an upgrade, there are a few improvements to look for in your next system.
More Energy Efficient
HVAC systems have come a long way, especially in terms of their energy efficiency. The SEER rating, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, measures the cooling efficiency. It is determined by dividing the cooling output for a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input during the same time. When shopping for a new AC system, look for the highest possible SEER rating. Generally, you want a system with a SEER rating of 15 or higher.
Variable Speed fans
Older models of AC systems had fans that only ran at one speed. Whether it was hot outside, or just warm, the fan always ran at full speed. Now, with updates to HVAC technology, there are systems with fans that can run at different speeds. On warm days when you only need minimal cooling, the fan will run at lower speeds, and then on hot days, it will run at higher speeds. This added feature makes newer HVAC systems more energy-efficient and keeps them from burning out and needing repairs more often.
Variable Speed Compressors
Similar to the fans in AC systems, compressors in older models also only had single-stage compressors that ran at full capacity. Basically, they either ran on at full-speed or not at all, which was very noisy and used up a fair amount of power. Newer HVAC systems have dual-stage compressors that run at varying optimal speeds. Some models also have something called Variable Refrigerant Flow or VRF which allows the system to run at the ideal capacity that is needed for different conditions. VRF, along with something else called Scroll Technology, allows new air conditioners to run quieter, and more efficiently.
Smart Technology
Almost everything in the home these days is smart and can be optimized and controlled with the internet, and HVAC systems are no exception.
- Smart Thermostats: With the invention of smart thermostats, homeowners can control their HVAC systems from anywhere with the touch of a button (or a screen). The latest technology means you can adapt your air conditioner to the ideal settings for you and your family’s comfort from your phone or tablet. Many devices and apps will also keep you up-to-date on your energy consumption and when it’s time for maintenance.
- Smart Sensors: Some advanced HVAC systems even have sensors to detect things like humidity and temperature, and even carbon dioxide levels. These systems are typically found in commercial spaces, but we are probably not far off from having these features in the home as well, to fully optimize our home systems. However, some homes do already have HVAC systems that use sensors to detect motion in the home, and will then adjust the settings to your or your family’s preferred settings.
Air Quality Sensors and Features
Though as stated above, sensors that detect certain things such as humidity, temperature, and other air quality factors are newer and not as readily available in homes, they are becoming more common. Many HVAC systems can also work seamlessly with air quality add-ons to ensure your home’s air is clean and allergen-free. As these features continue to advance and become more readily available, homeowners with allergies and weak immune systems will benefit greatly.
The Latest in Air Conditioner Technology
Though we’ve already mentioned a few innovative HVAC features that are not as readily available for residential homes yet, there are even newer advancements that are starting to appear that we wouldn’t want to skip over. While these features might be even further from being available to residential homeowners, they are something to consider for the future.
- Solar-powered air conditioning: Currently, an Australian company is working on a type of AC that is powered by solar panels.
How Day and Night Air Can Help
For quality HVAC installations, call the experts at Day and Night Air. Our certified technicians have decades of experience in installing, repairing, and maintaining a variety of HVAC systems in the Phoenix area. We take our work seriously and understand the importance of having Air Conditioning you can count on. Our friendly and professional staff are happy to answer any of your questions. Call Day and Night Air today to see how we can help you!