The phaseout of R-22 is now looming over the industry. Some industry sources have indicated that the adoption rate of R-410A has been slower than they hoped; however, many contractors are bucking that trend and moving their companies to primarily selling equipment with the new refrigerant.
Many contractors still have lingering concerns about the phaseout of R-22 and the adoption of R-410A. That’s why The NEWS asked experts from ICP, Arkema, Emerson, and ICOR to address some of the most common concerns about R-410A and the phaseout of R-22.
Studies estimate that more than one-half of all air conditioners in U.S. homes do not perform to their rated efficiencies due to improper installation. Because of this, EPA’s Energy Star™ program decided to utilize the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Quality Installation Specification to start the HVAC Quality Installation (QI) program.
The EPA reports that indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times higher, and occasionally more than 100 times higher, than outdoor levels, which could lead building occupants to suffer from respiratory ailments. Riding to the rescue are HVAC professionals who are specially trained in the latest IAQ technology.
Nowhere is the saying “What you can’t see can hurt you” more evident than when discussing IAQ. Consider what could be floating around in just about any home or building. The good news is that indoor pollutant issues can be corrected if the proper IAQ equipment is utilized.
It used to be that when we got together with neighbors for pizza and beer, we’d discuss all sorts of topics. Where are you going on vacation? Are you happy with your kid’s teacher this year? What’s going on with your job? Now we commiserate over who’s paying what, and more importantly, what we are doing to lower the bill.
Historically, builders haven’t offered a wide variety of HVAC or IAQ options, and home buyers who have wanted something different may have had trouble getting it. That scenario is starting to change, however, as more home buyers are asking builders for upgraded mechanical systems and IAQ options.
Although the residential new construction boom is over, it doesn’t mean all building has stopped or that new home buyers only want the cheapest HVAC solution. Consumer research shows homeowners are willing to pay more for a higher level of comfort, which can include the installation of zoning and IAQ accessories.
Annual energy costs for commercial buildings are more than $100 billion, which is why building owners and managers are always looking for ways to save energy. HVAC usually makes up a significant part of a commercial building’s energy bill, and with fuel prices spiraling upwards it’s no wonder that energy-efficient heating equipment is becoming of more interest in the commercial sector.
The green residential market is a bright spot amidst the housing gloom. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes that as the cost of energy remains high and prospective buyers are worried about how they will heat and cool their homes, surveys show buyers are willing to spend more to improve energy efficiency.
