Green Technologies in HVAC: It's Time to Make the Switch

According to US Department of Energy reports, cooling accounts for up to 73% of the energy used in commercial buildings. Switching to cleaner, greener HVAC technology is a wise investment. It not only protects your bottom line, increasing energy efficiency and cost savings, it also protects the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and shrinking your carbon footprint. And these aren’t the only reason for embracing green HVAC tech. Why should you make the switch?

Take Advantage of HVAC Tax Incentives Before They Expire

Federal tax incentives are still available to offset the cost of replacing older commercial HVAC systems with newer, more efficient, greener technology. Most enjoy savings of $5,000 or more – but it is unknown if these savings will expire in the coming year, so act fast while the current incentives are in effect.

Avoid the Expense of Operating AC Units Using Phased-Out R-22 Freon

As of January 1, 2020, R-22 refrigerant is no longer legal to manufacture or import in the US. Replacing this refrigerant in older, leaky commercial heating and cooling systems is becoming more challenging and expensive as new, more efficient air conditioners using more environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant to replace retired cooling R-22 technology.

Take Part in Local Green Initiatives

Most state and local governments and utility providers offer support and resources for businesses committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 30%+ over 10 years, helping them find and integrate greener heating and cooling options.

Make the Most of Economical Solar Energy

Rooftop mounted systems offer readily available solar power, converting sunlight into green heating and cooling. Many tax incentives exist to mitigate the costs of these systems.

Take Advantage of Energy Saving Enhancements for Traditional HVAC Systems

• Smart thermostats

Smart thermostats allow you to control temperature settings anytime, anywhere from a compatible Wi-Fi-enabled mobile device. Program your system to turn off during unoccupied hours or holidays, enjoying significant energy savings.

• Zoned system design

HVAC mechanical contractors recommend zoned system designs for commercial spaces with different heating and cooling needs throughout. Compatible with traditional ducted, VRF, and mini-split systems, zoning reduces energy costs by allowing you to turn off or adjust temperature settings in unused areas.

• Geothermal

Geothermal systems take advantage of the earth’s constant core temperature using an underground heat pump. It is the most efficient HVAC technology available.

• Economize

Adding an economizer to your current system provides cost-effective cooling, moving cooler inside air into your establishment and reducing the amount of time your system needs to run to reach your desired temperature. Economizers can reduce the need for mechanical cooling up to 75%, substantially reducing energy use.

• Variable refrigerant flow (VRF)

VRF systems can deliver heating and cooling simultaneously, using multiple miniature air handlers to meet requirements in different zones of your building. They provide precise cooling, running less frequently and at a lower capacity.

Make your business and your profit margins a little greener. Learn more about available green HVAC technologies from your business from the knowledgeable commercial heating and cooling contractors at H & H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/green-technologies-in-hvac-its-time-to-make-the-switch/

Critical Requirements Grow Room HVAC Design

Precise climate in your grow room is central to your success, whether you’re growing mushrooms or medical marijuana. Quality cultivation requires a high standard of care, and traditional AC systems are not enough to meet those needs. Our experienced commercial HVAC mechanical contractors understand the industry and the need for an expertly designed HVAC system that meets the challenges of each unique grow room setting.

Tips for a Successful Grow Room HVAC System Design

Specific environmental conditions are necessary to prevent disease, fuel proper growth, and support healthy plants with the full expression of all beneficial qualities. Precise grow room climate control is especially important in the cannabis industry. Focusing on these essential elements is crucial to avoid jeopardizing your business’ success:

• Airflow

Airflow, which should be designed to mimic the natural winds outdoors, is essential for healthy, well-developed plants. Airflow directly impacts stem strength and formation and influences the transfer of heat and gases between the plant and surrounding air (respiration/CO circulation). Wind angle also affects transpiration rate, including water movement from the plant to the environment. Airflow involves more than simply moving air and must include the right mix of ventilation and air recirculation to support CO circulation and prevent fungal diseases and odor. There are many options to manage this, including innovative stratifying fan technology, fabric duct air distribution, floor-mounted fans, and oscillating ventilators, as well as ionization and UV light technology to manage odors and disease.

• Temperature

Maintaining the optimal temperature range is integral to plant growth. Straying outside these parameters for significant amounts of time inhibits development, weakening plants and making them susceptible to disease. These temperatures must also correspond with the proper relative humidity levels, which can pose a significant HVAC challenge. Our experienced contractors understand how to properly size your system for precise climate control, avoiding oversized systems that cause drastic temperature fluctuations and poor relative humidity control, as well as undersized systems, which struggle to keep temperatures in the optimal range.

• Humidity

One of the greatest challenges for any grow room operation is maintaining the proper relative humidity levels. This is complicated by plant lifespan. Transpiration rate and moisture release increase as plants grow and must be removed from the grow room. This humidity release complicates conditions in the flowering phase, which requires lower humidity levels. Traditional HVAC systems simply cannot manage the challenges of commercial humidity control, making an effectively designed dehumidification system an essential component of your grow room climate control design. Paired with smart HVAC technology, it’s possible to achieve optimal results while reducing energy consumption and cost and reducing the likelihood of error when managing the grow room climate.

Ensure optimal growing conditions and the success of your business with a commercial HVAC service company with experience in the industry. Schedule a grow room HVAC design consultation with H & H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/critical-requirements-grow-room-hvac-design/