What Is a Green HVAC System?
One of the most common applications of green energy for homeowners is the implementation of green heating and cooling technology.
Broadly speaking, any time a heating or cooling unit is classified as “green,” that means it is going to use less energy than a standard HVAC system. Generally, green HVAC systems can reduce energy consumption by 30 to 50%. The less energy and fuel you use, the better your habits are for the environmentandmdash;hence the classification of “green.” Using technology that is more energy-efficient also offers additional benefits, including significant savings for the homeowner.
The Most Common Types of Green HVAC Equipment
- Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps: Dual-fuel heat pumps combine an electric heat pump and a gas furnace to create a more energy-efficient unit. These units are an extremely eco-friendly solution that comes with a special feature that prompts the unit to switch from electric to gas heat when the temperature dips under 35 degrees.
- Geothermal Heat Pumps: Although geothermal technology has existed since the 1940s, its popularity has significantly risen in recent years among homeowners and commercial property owners . Geothermal heat pumps draw heat from the ground and store it in a looped piping system. When the temperature drops outside, heat in the pipes is released and brought inside to warm the space. In the summer, this process is reversed and heat from the air is transferred through the pipes back to the ground outdoors. The temperature underground cools the refrigerant in the system when the weather gets warm and then returns cool air to your property.
- Ice-Powered Air Conditioning Units: AC units powered by ice? Yep, this is a real thing. As opposed to using Freon, ice-powered air conditioning freezes roughly 450 gallons of water during the night through a process known as “ice changing.” Then, in the morning, it switches into cooling mode to condition the air in a building for six-hour increments. Once the ice is completely melted, the unit automatically shuts off and the property is once again cooled by a regular AC unit. Many commercial properties have begun implementing this green technology in order to reduce energy consumption and save money.
- Hydronic Systems: Hydronic HVAC systems, which use circulating water to heat or cool your home, have existed for decades. Technically, even a radiator you might find in an older apartment counts as hydronic heating equipment. Over time, however, hydronic heating has become a lot more advanced. Hydronic systems can use in-floor piping, radiators, baseboards or even roofing to create comfortable temperatures in your home by transferring heat through conduction, convection, or radiation
- Wind Power Systems: Donandrsquo;t worryandmdash;you donandrsquo;t need to put a windmill on your property to enjoy wind heating. Wind power systems actually use small wind turbine-generated water heaters which, unlike standard water heaters that run on electricity or fuel, can be installed on the roof or other locations on your property that are exposed to wind.
- Quiet Duct Wrap: Quiet duct wrap is constructed using recycled denim. This product reduces both air loss and heat gain in your ductwork to protect your home from excess moisture, air currents and radiant heating.
- Solar Energy Systems: As our technicians at Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar know firsthand, there are a number of solar panel options that can help provide heating and cooling relief to your home. Moreover, installing solar panels automatically ensures that your existing HVAC system will not have to work as hard, thereby reducing overall energy consumption and providing greater savings over time.
Why Switch to a Green HVAC System?
The average green HVAC system not only reduces operating costs, it also requires less maintenance, is more reliable and provides long-term efficiency. Green HVAC system can pay for itself over time in the amount of savings it offers. Plus with additional incentives for installing green energy technology, thereandrsquo;s never been a better time to upgrade your home than right now.
At Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, you can rely on us for cutting-edge green HVAC equipment designed to last for years to come. From solar systems to dual-fuel hybrid heat pumps to floor and wall heaters, not to mention numerous ductwork options, you can count on us for the energy upgrades you need to save more and consume less.
To learn more about green energy from Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, just call (408) 868-5500, or fill out our contact form online.