June 17, 2024

HVAC Collective Ambient Releases 2024 Sustainability Report

By: Ambient Enterprises

Ambient Enterprises, the parent of HVAC sales representatives such as Gil-Bar, APA HVAC Technologies, Mechanical Technologies, H.C. Nye, DMG HVAC , and Johnson Barrow shared it’s 2024 sustainability report Thursday through its site.

The report focuses on the company’s environmental responsibility initiatives and highlights its efforts to incorporate sustainable practices nation-wide, while providing comfort and safety to clients. Overall, the HVAC collective aims to create a greener future by advancing sustainability within the wider HVAC industry.

The report also highlights the company’s peer education initiatives on both the East and West Coasts, offering comprehensive learning opportunities for industry professionals.

With the release of the 2024 report, Jenna Prasad, Sustainability Engineer at Ambient, answered a few questions regarding the HVAC group’s sustainability program.

Q&A With Jenna Prasad, Head of Sustainability at Ambient

What is Ambient’s position on sustainability?

Spanning 15 states and two coasts, Ambient and our brand partners are united by the same core value: our people. Our mission is to create a better world for our employees, manufacturers, customers, and communities. In the face of issues like climate change, pollution, and public health challenges, sustainability can’t just be a consideration or an afterthought. Instead, we integrate our commitment to environmental and social responsibility into our operations, business model, and decision-making processes.

How has Ambient’s sustainability program grown over the last year?

The development of our sustainability initiative mirrors the expansion of Ambient itself. Since 2021, our presence, market, and reach have more than doubled, and we’ve transitioned from tracking the carbon footprint of 11 offices and one fleet to that of over 40 offices and seven fleets nationwide. This growth brings challenges, but it also introduces fresh perspectives and new opportunities; our brand partners are equally invested in sustainable design and operations, and they continue to foster the initiative’s growth across all locations.

How does Ambient support customers through sustainable HVAC solutions?

HVAC systems play a significant role in building energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions– and they’re also vital to health, safety, and comfortability in our homes, schools, hospitals, and workplaces. It’s our job, and that of the entire construction industry, to protect our natural environment while prioritizing the wellbeing of our clients and communities within these spaces. Our customers know this, too, which is why so many of them have committed to the incorporation of emissions reduction and energy management strategies in their projects. We help our clients achieve their sustainability commitments by actively promoting the most cutting-edge, energy-efficient technologies available to the market. But innovative tech isn’t enough. Our true strength lies in our ability to provide expertise through all stages of a project; from initial design to installation, operations, and service, we’re able to support the integration of sustainable principles from start to finish.

How does Ambient support sustainability through peer education?

Part of developing a better future for our communities lies in support and active engagement. One way we do so is by offering comprehensive educational resources to our community members. Through our peer education programs, which operate on both the East and West Coasts, we provide in-person and online learning opportunities for industry professionals across all backgrounds and regions. These programs cover a wide range of industry-relevant topics and are often hosted in partnership with top manufacturers.

May 17, 2024

Stay Cool, Go Green

By Jenna Prasad, Head of Sustainability, Ambient

Summer is almost here, and temperatures are rising across the country. As building owners, property managers, and operators think about turning on the AC, they should prioritize maintenance on their HVAC systems to ensure they’re in top shape for the season. Beyond avoiding a dreaded cooling unit breakdown in the sweltering heat, scheduling maintenance can have many environmental benefits.

 

Optimization for Energy Efficiency

It’s well-known that keeping your HVAC systems at peak performance can help cut costs; the better the system works, the less energy it requires to do its job, resulting in lowered energy bills. Reducing equipment energy consumption due to proper maintenance subsequently decreases greenhouse gas emissions, lightening your carbon footprint.

Emissions Reduction from Refrigerant Leaks

Routine maintenance plays a large role in minimizing greenhouse gas emissions from refrigerant leaks. Through regular leak detection tests and inspections, it’s easy to prevent the damaging impact of refrigerants on the atmosphere.

Water Savings

One of the biggest culprits of water loss in cooling systems is evaporation. As water evaporates, the dirt and bacteria that are left behind need to be drained and replaced with fresh water. Increasing energy efficiency through maintenance can help lessen water waste by decreasing the need to drain and replace concentrated water; reducing thermal energy consumption consequently reduces evaporation.

Increased Equipment Lifespan

Repairs and replacements can be costly and time-consuming. Identifying and addressing minor issues before they develop into major problems can help extend the equipment’s lifespan. Doing so lessens the need for old equipment disposal and new purchases, reducing waste and conserving resources.

 

HVAC systems maintenance not only prevents unplanned repair costs—it also promotes responsible energy use and enhances the well-being of all occupants. Investing in routine maintenance will keep you cool and comfortable this summer, all while helping you achieve your environmental goals.

April 25, 2024

Save Energy, Save Money

By Jenna Prasad, Head of Sustainability, Ambient

 

New York, April 25th As tax season rolls around, many dread the complex paperwork and looming deadlines. However, there’s a silver lining for property owners and designers making energy efficiency upgrades. The federal government offers several tax incentives aimed at supporting decarbonization and combating climate change within the built environment.

 

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022

Dubbed the most significant climate action ever taken by Congress, the IRA allocates over $300 million towards clean energy and climate mitigation initiatives. This funding has introduced numerous tax credits accessible to both commercial and residential property owners nationwide.

 

Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for Energy Property

Available until the end of 2024, this tax credit benefits owners who implement energy property, like geothermal heat pumps. Geothermal projects exceeding 1 megawatt (MW) can secure a 6% tax credit, potentially increasing to 30% if they meet certain wage and apprenticeship criteria. Smaller projects under 1 MW automatically qualify for the 30% tax credit, with the possibility of reaching a 70% credit when all additional requirements are satisfied. From 2025, the ITC will transition to the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit.

 

Bonus Credits for Sustainable Practices

 

  1. Domestic Content: This bonus rewards projects incorporating over 40% domestically manufactured materials. Larger projects can earn a 2-10% credit, while smaller ones could receive up to 10%.
  2. Energy Communities: Projects developed in brownfield sites or areas impacted by high fossil fuel employment/unemployment can obtain up to a 10% additional credit.
  3. Low-Income Communities: Small-scale solar and wind initiatives in low-income areas are eligible for up to a 20% bonus credit.

 

Additional Incentives

 

  • Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit (2025-2032): This replaces the previous ITC for properties investing in zero-emission energy production, with similar benefits and bonus opportunities.
  • Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (2023-2032): Applies to new installations of EV charging stations and other alternative fuel refueling equipment, with credits up to $100,000 per item.
  • Energy Efficient Homes Tax Credit (2023-2032): Contractors building new, qualified energy-efficient residences can receive up to $5,000 per property, depending on the certification standards met.
  • Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Deduction: A permanent deduction that significantly benefits commercial property owners investing in energy-efficient installations, with enhanced benefits for projects from 2023 onward.

These incentives not only promote sustainable development but also provide financial relief for those investing in green technology. As we progress, additional federal tax incentives and state or utility rebates are expected to surface, further supporting energy-efficient upgrades.

March 22, 2024

Refrigerant Transition

By Jenna Prasad, Head of Sustainability, Ambient

New York, March 22nd As the construction industry moves towards sustainability, one of the significant changes underway is the transition to low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. This shift is driven by environmental concerns and regulatory mandates aiming to phase out high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A and R-134A. The spotlight is now on low-GWP alternatives such as R-454B, which promise a greener future for HVAC systems.


Legislative Background: A Global and National Response

 

The push towards low-GWP refrigerants is rooted in global and national legislative efforts:

  1. 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol: This global agreement focuses on the phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases often used as refrigerants. HFCs have been linked to significant contributions to global warming, measured by their Global Warming Potential (GWP).
  2. 2020 American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act: In the United States, this act mandates a phasedown of HFCs by 85% by 2036, aligning with the global initiative to reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants.
  3. 2023 EPA Technology Transitions Program Final Rule: This rule specifically targets the HVAC industry, restricting the use of high-GWP HFCs in air conditioning and heat pump products and equipment. Starting in 2025, the use of refrigerants with a GWP higher than 700 will be banned for certain HVAC systems.


Compliance Timeline for HVAC Systems

 

The transition to low-GWP refrigerants follows a structured timeline, focusing on different types of HVAC systems:

  • Jan 1, 2025: Residential and light commercial air conditioning and heat pump systems, as well as chillers, are affected. New systems using refrigerants with a GWP above 700 can be installed until Jan 1, 2026, as long as all components are manufactured before Jan 1, 2025.
  • Jan 1, 2026: Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems will need to comply with the new regulations.
  • Jan 1, 2027: Data centers are expected to transition to low-GWP refrigerants.


New vs. Existing HVAC Systems

 

It’s important to note that the Technology Transitions Program applies only to new HVAC systems. Existing systems can continue to use high-GWP refrigerants, although the supply of these refrigerants is rapidly decreasing, and costs are expected to rise due to restricted manufacturing capabilities. However, new high-GWP components needed for repairing existing systems can still be manufactured, sold, and distributed.

Implications for Clients and the Industry

 

As we navigate this transition, it’s crucial for clients and industry professionals to stay informed and proactive:

  • Equipment Purchases: If you’re purchasing equipment for a new system, ensure that you’re aware of the refrigerant being used. Transitioning to low-GWP products will help ensure compliance with new regulations.
  • Timely Orders: For manufacturers still offering R-410A equipment, orders should be placed promptly. Equipment containing R-410A must be manufactured before the end of 2024.

The shift to low-GWP refrigerants represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly HVAC industry. By staying informed and making strategic decisions, we can collectively contribute to a greener future.

February 21, 2024

Revolutionizing Real Estate: The Compelling Case for Investing in EV Charging Infrastructure

By: Jenna Prasad, Sustainability Engineer, Ambient

 

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly transforming the transportation landscape, and as a key stakeholder in the build environment, it’s crucial for property owners, consulting engineers, and contractors to recognize and capitalize on the benefits of investing in EV charging infrastructure. Here, we’ll delve into the urgency behind this transition and outline some reasons for property owners and developers to embrace the EV revolution.

 

Transportation Emissions and the Need for Change

 

Transportation, notably cars and trucks, has long been a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions, transportation accounted for 29% of total GHG emissions in the U.S. in 2021. Notably, light-duty vehicles were responsible for 58% of this, with medium- and heavy-duty trucks contributing 23% to total transportation emissions. To combat climate change effectively, there’s a critical need for widespread vehicle electrification.

 

 

Why Invest in EV Charging For Your Building?

 

 

Environmental and Health Benefits

  • Contributing to community CO2 reduction efforts.
  • EVs decrease air pollution, fostering cleaner air quality
  • Enhancing overall energy efficiency.

 

Public Commitment to Sustainability

  • Attracting environmentally conscious employees, clients, and tenants.

 

Property Value Enhancement

  • The addition of EV chargers can increase property value.

 

Potential Additional Revenue Stream

  • Charging fees can offset the initial investment in charger technology.

 

Encouraging EV Adoption

  • Employees/tenants are more likely to switch to electric vehicles.
  • Reducing Scope 3 CO2 emissions related to employee commuting.

 

Investment in Sustainable Development

  • Seizing opportunities in the exponentially growing EV market.

 

Leveraging Incentives

  • Utilizing utility rebates, tax credits, and additional funding programs.

 

How Companies are Supporting the Transition

 

Ambient, a national HVAC solutions provider with companies such as Gil-Bar and Mechanical Technologies, recognizes the pivotal role that EV charging plays in nationwide efforts to embrace sustainability. In partnership with ABB E-mobility, Ambient and its companies offer comprehensive EV charging solutions for multifamily residential and commercial projects.

 

So Where Does This Leave Us?

 

Investing in EV charging infrastructure is not just a responsible environmental choice but a strategic business decision for building owners, consulting engineers, and contractors. Beyond aligning with sustainability goals, it enhances property values, attracts eco-conscious stakeholders, and positions businesses at the forefront of a growing market. With the support of companies like Ambient and ABB, supporting EV charging for tenants, employees, and guests becomes a tangible reality for the build environment in New York and beyond.

 

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Ambient Enterprises

January 8, 2024

Construction and Climate Policy, Local to National

By: Jenna Prasad, Sustainability Engineer, Ambient Enterprises

 

As we enter 2024, all eyes turn to policymakers as they intensify commitments to climate action. Municipal, state, and national governments across the U.S. continue to push for decarbonization and energy efficiency in the built industry through increasingly strict regulations. Building owners, contractors, and engineers face a profoundly shifting landscape dictated by the implementation and enforcement of these rulings and therefore must remain proactive as compliance deadlines approach. As businesses prepare to meet these policies head-on, an understanding of current and upcoming climate regulations is crucial to navigating this new era.

In New York City, Local Law 97 stands out as one of the most prominent—and stringent—emissions reduction laws in the country. A subset of the 2019 Climate Mobilization Act, Local Law 97 requires buildings larger than 25,000 square feet to meet new greenhouse gas emissions, aiming to reduce NYC building emissions 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. These emissions limits and energy efficiency standards begin in 2024, with even stricter carbon caps slated for implementation starting in 2030. Building owners are responding by implementing energy conservation measures, transitioning to lower-carbon fuels, and undergoing HVAC systems electrification and retrofits.

Alongside NYC’s efforts to reduce building emissions is a push to phase out fossil fuels. Local Law 154, passed in late 2021, sets carbon limits for new constructions and gut renovations, essentially prohibiting the use of fossil fuels. These requirements are enforced starting in 2024 with low-rise buildings and in 2027 for buildings with seven stories or more.

NYC is not the only city making significant strides toward greener buildings. Boston’s Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) 2.0, adopted in 2021, established comparable emissions limits, which are enforced beginning in 2025 for buildings larger than 35,000 square feet and in 2030 for buildings exceeding 20,000 square feet. Similarly, Washington D.C. also established a climate goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% in 2032, which is upheld by the Building Energy Performance Standard (BEPS) Program introduced in the Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act.

In addition to state laws, environmental efforts are underway on a national scale. One target of national policy is refrigerant, which can contribute heavily to a building’s greenhouse gas emissions through leakages. Introduced in 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act intends to address the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are greenhouse gases with high global warming potentials (GWPs; used to measure the environmental impact of a greenhouse gas in comparison to carbon dioxide) that are commonly used as refrigerants. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), authorized by the AIM Act, issued a final rule on the phasedown of these gases, restricting the sale, distribution, import, and export of high-GWP HFCs, including R-410A, one of the most popular refrigerants internationally. Starting in 2025, refrigerant GWP for residential and commercial air conditioners, heat pumps, and chillers must be less than 700. Similar restrictions are in place for variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and data centers, with enforcement beginning in 2026 and 2027 respectively. Many manufacturers are already transitioning to more eco-friendly refrigerants, such as R-744 and R-454B, for use in their products.

The most anticipated upcoming regulation facing corporate America is from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Initially proposed in March 2022, the SEC is in the process of developing a national climate disclosure rule, which will require publicly traded companies to report on annual greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks. Such a rule is intended both to encourage companies to take emissions-reduction action and to prevent “greenwashing,” or making false claims about sustainability and positive environmental impact. Although it was initially anticipated for October 2023, the final ruling has been delayed; a release in early 2024 is now projected, in which case the requirements will likely go into effect in 2026.

One state, however, is not waiting around for an impending SEC ruling; in September 2023, California legislation passed two climate disclosure bills enforcing emissions and risk reporting for both public and private companies. The first is the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, which requires companies doing business in California with revenues of one billion dollars or more to disclose their annual greenhouse gas emissions beginning in 2026. The second law is the Climate-Related Risk Disclosure Act, which requires companies doing business in California with revenues exceeding $500 million dollars to report biennially on climate-related financial risks starting in 2026. Both bills were signed into law in October 2023 by California Governor Gavin Newsom, and although they are still subject to legal challenges, these disclosure regulations indicate a nationwide shift toward actionable climate change mitigation.

Innovation and modernization in the built environment are actively being propelled by legislative developments at all levels of government. These regulations, both current and future, emphasize a shared responsibility to integrate environmental stewardship into the engineering and construction landscapes. If climate action is taken through solutions like electrification, refrigerant management, and carbon footprint reduction, the industry will align itself with a path of resiliency and sustainability in pursuit of a greener future.

 

 

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Ambient Enterprises

December 29, 2023

Ambient Releases 2023 Emissions Update

New York, Dec. 29 Ambient Enterprises, the parent of HVAC sales representatives such as Gil-Bar, APA HVAC Technologies, Mechanical Technologies, H.C. Nye, and recently DMG HVAC and Johnson Barrow, shared it’s 2023 emissions report Friday through its site.

 

“Understanding our environmental impact and driving sustainable change has been a major focus for Ambient in recent years. The 2023 Emissions Update reflects on Ambient’s continued commitment to environmental stewardship and emissions reduction efforts in conjunction with the company’s nationwide growth. The goal of this publicly-available report is to embrace a culture of accountability and transparency within the HVAC community and to encourage others to join Ambient in the collective push toward a greener future.” says Jenna Prasad, Sustainability Engineer at Ambient.

Ambient is a collective of HVAC design and implementation experts, offering solutions for spaces in the healthcare, commercial, and residential sectors.

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Ambient Enterprises

December 7, 2023

Harnessing Earth’s Power: The Rise of Geothermal in Commerical Buildings

By Joe Kalina, Sales Engineer, Gil-Bar Industries

As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, innovative solutions are emerging to mitigate the environmental impact of traditional HVAC systems. One solution gaining momentum is geothermal heating and cooling. This revolutionary approach taps into the Earth’s natural heat reservoirs, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional HVAC.

A recent CNN article highlights the increasing adoption of geothermal systems in the heart of New York City, where extreme heat events are becoming more frequent. The city, known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling commercial spaces, is turning to geothermal technology to tackle rising temperatures, reduce its carbon footprint, ease strain on the electrical grid, and meet carbon reduction goals set forth by the Climate Act.

Geothermal systems operate by harnessing the Earth’s internal temperature. Unlike traditional HVAC systems that mainly rely on fossil fuels for heating, geothermal designs have a greener, lower-carbon-emitting approach. Geothermal systems operate by utilizing the Earth’s consistent internal temperature to transfer or extract heat from the ground. This translates to a substantial reduction in energy needed to move heat from one source to another, ultimately leading to more a sustainable infrastructure. By stabilizing the source where the heat is pulled from, we can optimize the mechanical systems doing the work. Although the initial installation may seem like a more involved process compared to traditional HVAC, the long-term savings are substantial. These systems also boast lower operational and maintenance costs, making them a wise investment for organizations looking to cut utility expenses over the life span of the building. With geothermal systems providing lower environmental strain and lower costs for building owners, it’s really no surprise that we’ve seen the increase in adoption that we have over recent years.

The cost savings and sustainability aspects of geothermal have also led to advancements in the technology itself and are contributing to its widespread adoption. Enhanced drilling techniques, improved heat exchangers, and smarter control systems are making these systems more accessible and efficient. In turn, commercial buildings are increasingly turning to this solution to meet their needs.

While geothermal may present a promising future, there are challenges that still exist. The availability of suitable underground conditions and upfront installation costs can be barriers for some businesses. That won’t be for long though. Government incentives and a growing awareness of the long-term benefits are creating opportunities for expansion of these types of systems in the commercial setting.

Geothermal represents a beacon of hope in the quest for sustainable, environmentally friendly, and profitable solutions in a world of growing regulation. New York City’s adoption of geothermal technology at 1 Java Street only underscores its potential to address the dual challenges of extreme weather and carbon emissions. As technology continues to advance and awareness grows, we’re likely to see it become a cornerstone of the green building revolution, ushering in a new era of energy-efficient and eco-friendly commercial spaces.

October 2, 2023

Decarbonization & Electrification: The Way to a Greener Future

HVAC Experts Break Down What You Need To Know

By: Amir Goharpey, Application Engineer, Gil-Bar Solutions

Decarbonization, a term often heard in the context of sustainability and climate action, represents a critical step towards reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating climate change. In the realm of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), decarbonization entails a strategic shift towards cleaner, more efficient technologies and practices. Here, we’ll discuss what decarbonization is and three key strategies for achieving it, with a particular focus on electrification as a driving force for positive change.

Understanding Decarbonization

At its core, decarbonization is the process of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from various processes. In the HVAC world, this is a concerted effort to minimize the carbon footprint of buildings and encompasses four fundamental components:

  1. Energy Efficiency: This involves making units and buildings as energy-efficient as possible, ensuring that minimal energy input yields the maximum heating or cooling output. Besides environmental benefits, increased energy efficiency also reduces buildings’ energy bills, making it a win-win strategy.
  2. Electrification: Electrification is the strategy to replace existing equipment that relies on fossil fuels with the latest electric technology. This transition not only reduces carbon emissions but also aligns with the broader movement towards cleaner energy sources.
  3. Renewable Energy: Building all-electric systems and utilizing renewable energy sources to generate electricity play a pivotal role in decarbonization. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation, we can significantly lower carbon emissions.
  4. Electricity Loads: While essential, electricity load management falls just beyond the scope of what we are discussing here, but remains a crucial element of the overall decarbonization strategy.

The Significance of Decarbonization

Why is decarbonization so important? Simply put, it is a linchpin in our efforts to combat climate change and achieve reduction goals. The Climate and Community Protection Act, for instance, commits New York State to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and a staggering 85% by 2050. To achieve these ambitious targets, an aggressive plan has been set in motion. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP), for example, have emerged as a viable solution, not only for meeting climate goals but also for surpassing the environmental performance of traditional DX and gas heating options.

Strategies for Combating Decarbonization

To effectively combat carbon emissions, HVAC professionals and policymakers must consider three main strategies:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Although energy efficiency has long been a priority in HVAC, its focus has often centered on cost savings rather than improving the carbon footprint. However, reduced energy consumption directly translates into fewer emissions from fuel use, making it a vital component.
  2. Refrigerant Management: Managing refrigerants is a critical aspect of reducing unwanted emissions from buildings. Employing low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants is essential to minimize environmental impact. Regular maintenance practices can also help prevent refrigerant leakage.
  3. Electrification: Electrification, especially in heating, is gaining prominence as we move away from gas heaters and inefficient electric heating methods. The shift towards cleaner electric grids, with an emphasis on renewable energy sources, is a cornerstone of electrification efforts.

Electrified Heating Solutions

One of the key drivers of electrification in the HVAC industry is the adoption of electric heating solutions, particularly heat pumps. These solutions include:

  • Air to Air Heat Pumps: These systems, includingsplit system heat pumps, rooftop unit (RTU) heat pumps, and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heat pumps, efficiently provide both heating and cooling, reducing the need for fossil fuels.
  • Heat Recovery Solutions: Heat recovery systems, such as heat recovery chillersand multi-pipe systems maximize energy efficiency by capturing and repurposing waste heat, further contributing to the decarbonization movement.

So where does this leave us? We know decarbonization and electrification are intertwined as essential components of our journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. By embracing energy efficiency, responsible refrigerant management, and electrified heating solutions, we can not only meet reduction goals but also take significant strides in combatting climate change and preserving the environment for future generations.

Amir Goharpey is an application engineer with Gil-Bar Solutions, a division of the Ambient HVAC Collective.

HVAC Invests in Smart Building Controls

By Chris Plummer, Sales Manager, Gil-Bar Industries

Future Tech Pays Off?

Connected smart equipment and devices have changed the way we live our lives. If you’re in the engineering or construction space, it’s also changed the way we maintain our facilities. Big data and cloud analytics allowed us to create actionable intelligence by providing greater visibility on system performance and trends.

Often one of the biggest costs of maintaining a building is climate control. Building owners and management professionals know that keeping BTUs in the space is a primary challenge. Luckily, smart controls and connected devices have allowed us to use data and insights to develop the right maintenance strategies, helping us reduce energy consumption, extend asset life, and increase uptime, making it a potentially smart investment.

Connecting your HVAC equipment, such as your chiller, enhances your data visibility and grants access to:

  • Expanded data beyond what’s visible in the BAS, up to 200 points, for advanced insight into chiller performance.
  • Sophisticated AI-infused, machine-learning insights.
  • Chiller expertise powered by cutting-edge digital capabilities.
  • Real-time, chiller health and performance diagnostics at your fingertips.
  • Historical data from first day of connection.
  • Diagnostic trends allow comparison to design intent and historical operation.
  • Predictive analytics designed to uncover potential issues early.

Recently, we’ve seen manufacturers placing safe bets on connected smart tools, some even offering free extended service to demonstrate their confidence in the future tech. For example, Johnson Controls, in conjunction with Gil-Bar Industries, now offers 1 year service included with all connected chiller orders.

Now is the best time for building owners and engineers to take advantage of these additional offers.  If you have additional questions please reach out to your respect Gil-Bar Sales representative.

Chris Plummer is a sales manager at Gil-Bar Industries. Part of the Ambient HVAC collective, Gil-Bar is New York City’s provider of Yorkconnected chillers and HVAC product expertise.