These days, there is an increasing focus on energy-efficient or “green” trends in the HVAC and plumbing industries. Customer preference coupled with the Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR regulations mean that HVAC and plumbing are both getting more energy efficient, which saves customers money on their heating, cooling and water bills. And it’s also becoming better for the planet, which makes Mother Nature happy. Let’s look at some of these key trends for both HVAC and plumbing.
Here are some of the top green technologies and advancements you may be seeing out there right now.
Geothermal HVAC
Solar has long been the go-to for people when thinking about harnessing nature to provide sustainability in terms of energy consumption. But now, more and more, people are looking to the earth itself to help.
It doesn’t matter where in the country you live, the temperature deep underground is relatively the same. So geothermal units like heat pumps can work anywhere by tapping into the temperature underground. Geothermal is gaining ground (pun intended!) on solar as one of the most eco-friendly options.
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF)
Called the “future of HVAC” VRF or variable refrigerant flow” systems consist of an outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units, using refrigerant piping. These systems can cool or heat different areas of a house or building separately, allowing for precise temperature control. Don’t use that extra bedroom very much? Why keep it as cool as the rest of the house?
Consumers are loving these systems because they’re highly efficient and reduce energy consumption. HVA pros love them because of the flexibility of installation.
High-efficiency heat pumps
High efficiency heat pumps are having a moment, due in large part to governmental subsidies that make them extremely economical – free in some cases! — to purchase and install. It’s because heat pumps are ultra efficient, save users money on their energy bills and they’re better for the environment. With the new administration coming into office in January, it’s not certain these credits will continue, so it’s wise to inform customers that now’s the time to install them if they want to be sure.
Smart thermostats
Or should we say smarter? Smart thermostats have been around a while, but now they’re evolving with even more features that give homeowners more control. You can find multi-stage models that not only control heating and cooling by zones via an app, but there are also units that have voice control, voice assistants and even home security features. The whole point is to reduce energy consumption (and bills!) by giving the homeowner precise control of the system.
Plumbing
What’s trending right now in the green plumbing-sphere? It’s about water efficiency. Here are some of the top trends we’re seeing.
Low-flow fixtures
Like smart thermostats, low-flow fixtures have been around awhile, but now they’re getting more advanced. Gone are the days when your low-flow showerhead felt like a trickle that wouldn’t rinse the shampoo out of your hair. Today, it’s hard to tell the difference between low-flow fixtures and traditional models.
Greywater recycling systems
If we had to predict which trend would rise most dramatically in the next few years, this would be it. It’s the notion of using wastewater from sinks and showers for other things, so you’re not using potable water when you don’t have to.
One really cool system that is already popular in Japan is a sink-toilet combo in which the water you use to wash your hands drains into the toilet tank, and that’s what you flush with, not fresh potable water. Genius, right? There are also whole-house systems that use water from sinks, showers and washing machines to irrigate the yard and garden of the home.
The whole concept is water conservation. Why send water down the drain when you can “recycle” it for another use?
Water-efficient toilets
Oh, how the throne has evolved. Some models are so high-tech now that you need a manual to know how to use them — customizable settings like warmth, seat position, built-in bidets and so much more. One of the energy-efficient features is water conservation. Many models have two flush modes so you’re not using more water than you need with each flush. One of these new high-tech thrones can save 6,000 gallons per year!
And, about those built-in bidets. The average American household goes through about 400 rolls of toilet paper each year. Bidets can cut that usage by 80%! So not only are you saving money, but you’re saving trees.
Hot water recirculation systems
Another popular plumbing feature that saves customers money on water and energy bills and is also super convenient, hot water recirculation systems deliver hot water on demand, so people aren’t waiting for the shower to heat up.
These systems are becoming so popular, they’re even being installed to increase the value of a home on the market.
Something we’re noticing about all of these energy advancements – they’re also making things easier for people to use. So, it’s a huge win-win. Customers get easier, more efficient HVAC and plumbing, they save money on energy and water bills, and Mother Nature is happier, too.
