Between government regulations and evolving consumer preferences, it’s no surprise many industries are making a conscious effort to meet the increasing demand for eco-friendly products and sustainable solutions - the HVAC industry is no exception. There are two innovative core solutions propelling the industry closer to high-performance and net zero buildings: electrification and inverter technology.
What is Electrification?
Electrification refers to the shift from traditional fossil fuel equipment to electricity-fueled equipment. Electrification is a key component in sustainable building practices, offering increased energy efficiency and decreased carbon emissions. For example, electric heat pumps can operate at up to 500% efficiency as they move heat from one location to another, instead of simply generating heat directly, further driving down costs and consumption.
What is Inverter Technology?
Inverter technology allows HVAC systems to operate at higher efficiency levels and maintain precise temperature control as it modulates the speed of the compressor motor based on the heating or cooling needs of the space. Conventional HVAC systems rely on fixed-speed compressors, which operate at full capacity when active. They can only cycle on and off to maintain a specific temperature, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistent comfort.
What Systems Use Inverter Technology and Electrification?
Products such as the Goodman Side Discharge (SD) Inverter System are redefining efficiency and comfort as they deliver high-efficiency performance, up to 17.2 SEER2, while the SD heat pump reaches up to 17.5 SEER2 and 8.5 HSPF2. Inverter technology has proven itself to be revolutionary as the compressor makes slight adjustments to meet the temperature needs, delivering noise reduction down to as low as 45 dBA.
Ductless systems are typically electric-powered, so the compressor and fan units pull from electricity as opposed to traditional fossil fuels like natural gas or oil. Daikin offers a range of flexible and differentiated ductless systems, including 32 energy star certified models. These products feature high-quality, energy-efficient solutions with variable-speed and inverter technology.
How Does Electrification and Inverter Technology Impact High-Performance Building?
Builders are expected to be well-versed in regulations relating to efficiency and environmental standards to meet compliance. These regulations include building energy codes, local and state mandates, EPA regulations, and environmental regulations like the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
However, high-performance building must surpass simply meeting the minimum expectations of regulations and standards. Implementing HVAC inverter technology and electrification are key solutions to exceed expectations and maximize the marketability of properties. Through these technologies, builders can add value to homeowners in the following ways:
- Increased Comfort: Inverter technology allows for precise temperature control that ensures consistent comfort levels, especially in regions with significant temperature fluctuations. Many traditional units can be noisy, and inverter systems preserve the soundscape as they are about as loud as a refrigerator.
- Cost Savings: Consumer spending habits are changing, so government regulations and new consumer preferences are not the only needs builders must adhere to. New research shows that 56% of consumers are spending their money differently this year, with utilities in second place for spending increases. High utility bills are a clear pain point that builders can mitigate with the reduced energy consumption and extended equipment lifespans offered by inverter technology and electrification. Additionally, builders can use tax incentives and rebates to make their projects more attractive with high-efficiency system installs.
- Better Health and Safety: Electrified systems are at a reduced risk for combustion issues and gas leaks. Inverter-driven systems are also less likely to overload electrical circuits as they operate at varying speeds, often well below the maximum output. These systems are more reliable as they are less demanding, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures and reassuring the homeowner of a safe unit.
Builders play a crucial role in transforming high-efficiency building, driving the industry closer to net zero buildings and sustainability through electrification and inverter-driven products. These technologies are essential for builders to establish themselves as leaders in the market for future- proof, eco-friendly properties, providing them a competitive edge. The benefits realized are three- fold: homeowners experience more comfort, cost savings, and safety, builders maximize project marketability, and we all move towards a healthier and more sustainable environment.
Learn more with Daikin this October 1-3rd in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the EEBA High Performance Home Builder Summit. Register at: summit2024.eeba.org