The latest heat pump technologies increase application range, empowering electrification and decarbonization Sophisticated digital platforms and smart technologies advance digitization, help optimize building performance and reach net zero goals Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, will highlight key trends facing the HVAC industry and solutions to meet evolving customer Read more
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- The latest heat pump technologies increase application range, empowering electrification and decarbonization
- Sophisticated digital platforms and smart technologies advance digitization, help optimize building performance and reach net zero goals
Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, will highlight key trends facing the HVAC industry and solutions to meet evolving customer needs at the leading trade show for HVACR professionals, the AHR Expo, Jan. 22-24, 2024. To assist contractors and business owners in navigating the upcoming year, Johnson Controls will present innovative solutions that improve efficiency, promote electrification, advance digitization and ensure compliance with refrigerant regulations.
“The critical conversations taking place at this year’s conference will focus on the major transformations in our industry, driven by the demand for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings,” said Lei Schlitz, president, Global Products, Johnson Controls. “The most significant commitment any commercial or residential property can make is to incorporate more efficient and electrified systems into their building, all digitally connected for increased insight into system performance. This is more important than ever to address the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Greater Efficiency
The HVAC industry’s focus on sustainability continues to grow. The speed of this growth is driven by multiple factors, including governmental energy efficiency regulations, corporate initiatives and an increasing number of environmentally conscious consumers. In fact, according to a recent study by Johnson Controls and Forrester Consulting, one-third of respondents said they need to accelerate their efforts to meet pending net zero goals.
For homeowners, Johnson Controls offers numerous options for hybrid system including the YORK® YH5 15.2 SEER2 Single-Stage Heat Pump and Y92E 97% AFUE 2-stage furnace that allows homeowners to use the most efficient fuel source based on temperature conditions. As the primary heating and cooling source, the YH5 heat pump is optimized to meet 25C tax incentives through the IRA. During the few times a year when temperatures are too low for efficient electric heating, the Y92E furnace provides efficient backup heating and is also optimized to meet 25C eligibility requirements.
To help hyperscale data centers and improve cooling efficiency while maintaining uptime, Johnson Controls developed solutions that reduce energy consumption and total cost of ownership. Specified for the unique needs of mission-critical applications, the YORK YVAM Air-Cooled, Magnetic-Bearing Centrifugal Chiller is one of the most efficient options for data center cooling.
Widespread Electrification
Electrification continues to gain momentum due to the acceleration toward decarbonization and the use of renewable energy sources. At the same time, incentives such as the IRA are making high-efficiency HVAC systems, including heat pumps, more accessible to a wider population. These factors are making it easier for contractors to talk to customers about new systems and get buy-in.
According to Schlitz, “Electrification is a critical pillar of decarbonization, and innovative heat pumps are essential to strategically electrify heating and cooling. Johnson Controls is at the forefront of evolving heat pump technology to push the limits of what is possible and reduce the use of inefficient backup sources even in the coldest climates.”
For example, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning will soon launch a new variable refrigerant flow (VRF) cold-climate heat pump. The air365 Max Heat Pump is designed to efficiently cool and heat buildings in cold climates down to -22°F for reduced energy costs year-round.
In partnership with the DOE Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains, Johnson Controls recently announced an initiative to accelerate the production of domestic heat pump manufacturing – including cold climate air source heat pumps – by expanding three of its U.S.-based factories. Combined, these facilities will be able to produce approximately 200,000 electric heat pumps per year. This substantial volume will help drive energy affordability and energy security, while helping combat climate change and creating new jobs.
Advanced Digitalization
Homeowners and building managers are increasingly recognizing the advantages of integrating smart technology into building systems. In commercial buildings, operational technology (OT) systems, including chillers, BAS & Controls, video monitoring, and access control, as well as information technology (IT) systems and external sources such as weather forecasts and utilities, are seamlessly connected using Internet of Things (IoT) and secure cloud technology.
The suite of apps offered by Johnson Controls OpenBlue Enterprise Manager continuously monitors data streams, offering users informative dashboards that display system status and health. Leveraging AI, advanced analytics, digital twin technology, and insights from expert engineers, these apps provide valuable recommendations to customers to save energy, minimize costs, reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor air quality and enhance occupant comfort. The OpenBlue suite also incorporates predictive analytics and remote diagnostics, enabling system condition assessment, anticipation of service requirements, and accelerated troubleshooting. This proactive approach effectively mitigates failures, minimizes unplanned downtime, and prevents inconvenient – and costly – emergency repairs.
Verdantix, an independent industry analyst firm, recently recognized OpenBlue as a market-leading Energy Management Software. Additionally, OpenBlue’s strategic acquisitions, including FM Systems, a leading IWMS provider, further strengthen its ability to support customers on their path towards intelligent, sustainable, and healthy buildings.
Low-GWP Refrigerants
The most significant phase to date of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, which mandates an 85% reduction in hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) gases by 2036, went into effect at the beginning of January 2024. This phase reduces HFC production by an additional 30% (40% total reduction), directing the industry to transition to low-GWP refrigerants.
While Johnson Controls is helping industry professionals adapt to the refrigerant transition through its world class technical training and educational resources (on-line and in person), the company is adding product features that make working with these new low-GWP refrigerants even safer and easier to service. For instance, YORK commercial rooftop units utilizing R-454B refrigerant will offer a new refrigerant detection system (RDS) to detect refrigerant leaks within the unit cabinet. The RDS will be required by code in certain applications and optional in others, which will help customers understand when it is required. Johnson Controls has also developed a unique and innovative RDS Calculator tool that will be available in both the product selection tool and in the Ducted Systems Solutions App.
Johnson Controls has added additional ultra-low GWP refrigerant options to its applied products. For instance, the YORK YVWH Water-to-Water Dual Variable-Speed Screw Heat Pump was the first screw heat pump in North America to use R-1234ze refrigerant. R-1234ze has an ultra- low GWP of 1, which enables the YVWH to far exceed the EPA’s refrigerant regulations that go into effect starting Jan. 1, 2025.
To learn more, visit Johnson Controls at the AHR Expo at booths S6236 and S7529 or go to https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/events/ahr.
During the Milwaukee Tool Pipeline influencer event, the company announced the M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE XC6.0 Battery Pack, which delivers HIGH OUTPUT 12.0 power in a smaller size, 15-minute supercharge up to 80%, and the longest life vs REDLITHIUM batteries. REDLITHIUM FORGE are Milwaukee’s most powerful, fastest charging, and longest-life batteries. The REDLITHUM FORGE XC6.0 delivers Read more
During the Milwaukee Tool Pipeline influencer event, the company announced the M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE XC6.0 Battery Pack, which delivers HIGH OUTPUT 12.0 power in a smaller size, 15-minute supercharge up to 80%, and the longest life vs REDLITHIUM batteries. REDLITHIUM FORGE are Milwaukee’s most powerful, fastest charging, and longest-life batteries.
The REDLITHUM FORGE XC6.0 delivers the same power as the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 in a smaller size and lighter weight design. The optimized combination of size, weight, and increased power provides the best solution for power-demanding overhead work and tight work areas.
The REDLITHIUM FORGE XC6.0 is the fastest charging battery pack within its class on M18, charging in just 15 minutes to 80% with the new M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous Super Charger. This lithium-ion battery has the longest life, the most recharges, and the best performance over the life of the battery.
This solution is designed with resistant housing for increased protection against exposure to common oils, greases, and solvents. Built-in REDLINK Intelligence protects the battery from overloads, preventing you from damaging your cordless power tools in heavy-duty situations. The REDLITHIUM FORGE XC6.0 battery is fully compatible with 250+ M18 solutions.
Contest recognizes outstanding customer service; Winner receives $500 cash! Malco Products, one of the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of a variety of high-quality tools for the building trades, today announced the launch of its brand-new Counterperson of the Year Contest. Malco is looking to recognize and celebrate outstanding counter staff at its U.S. wholesale distribution locations who demonstrate Read more
Contest recognizes outstanding customer service; Winner receives $500 cash!
Malco Products, one of the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of a variety of high-quality tools for the building trades, today announced the launch of its brand-new Counterperson of the Year Contest.
Malco is looking to recognize and celebrate outstanding counter staff at its U.S. wholesale distribution locations who demonstrate the same values that make Malco great: dedication to superior customer service and going above & beyond to ensure contractors have the Malco tools they need to get the job done.
There are great prizes lined up not just for the winner, but for the contractors and distributors who nominate as well:
- The winner will receive $500 cash.
- If the winner is nominated by a contractor, the contractor receives $100 in Malco tools of their choosing, plus the distributor/contractor team will receive lunch!
- All qualifying nominees and nominators will receive a Malco golf shirt, hat and product catalog.
Malco is also making it easy for contractors to nominate counter staff, with 3 options to enter:
- Grab a printed form at your local distributor location and mail it in (PO Box 400, Annandale, MN, 55302)
- Enter online at www.malcoproducts.com/counterperson-of-the-year
- Submit a brief video, which can be emailed or texted to Malco’s marketing department at 612-325-1502 or marketing@malcotools.com.
All entries must be received by Thursday, August 31, and the winner will be announced in October. Please note, this contest is only open to nominees in the United States.
For more information about Malco Products and to enter the contest, visit www.malcoproducts.com/counterperson-of-the-year
Nashville field tech enablement software provider equips HVAC leader’s nationwide dealer network with comprehensive technical services solution XOi, a leading provider of technician-focused technology solutions, announces an enhanced collaboration with Carrier, an industry leader in heating, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Dealers will benefit from a more streamlined experience between Carrier technical support services and distributor Read more
Nashville field tech enablement software provider equips HVAC leader’s nationwide dealer network with comprehensive technical services solution
XOi, a leading provider of technician-focused technology solutions, announces an enhanced collaboration with Carrier, an industry leader in heating, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions.
Dealers will benefit from a more streamlined experience between Carrier technical support services and distributor and dealer networks by utilizing XOi’s advanced technology for improving real-time installation or maintenance troubleshooting.
The Carrier Digital Advantage is a fully connected, incentivized ecosystem of digital tools and technologies provided to Carrier dealers and technicians. This program empowers dealers to provide best-in-class customer service by being more productive and efficient.
“The collaboration with XOi supports the Carrier Digital Advantage by empowering service teams with data insights and virtual support tools for each step in resolving service requests,” said Bob Lang, Director of Quality Assurance, Carrier. “Field technicians can quickly access resources from the Carrier support team to provide exemplary HVAC service.”
With XOi, Carrier technicians can access educational resources and equipment information to enhance efficiency and accuracy and provide exceptional customer service.
“We’re enhancing how information is shared among Carrier distributors and our dealers,” said David Kesterton, President of Mingledorff’s, a large HVAC distributor in the Southeast. “The collaboration between XOi, Carrier and our distribution team drives an even more efficient process for reporting and resolving issues in the field and keeping projects on track. Technicians have immediate access to the information they need with a tablet or smartphone. That kind of accessible, easy to navigate knowledge base helps deliver a premium customer experience.”
“Having both the distributor and Carrier technical support teams utilizing XOi brings closer alignment on field needs in real-time,” said John Holloman, Distributor Service Manager for Robert Madden Industries of Lubbock, Texas. “This enhancement to the partnership helps provide superior customer service to our dealers and each customer.”
Equipped with the data and analytics capabilities of XOi’s curb-to-curb solutions, Carrier service technicians can collect, index and analyze jobsite information and build an accessible institutional knowledge base that supports real-time decision-making.
“Expanding this collaboration to all service technicians helps Carrier contractors meet and exceed the demands of their customers,” said Aaron Salow, CEO and Founder of XOi. “The unique functionality and comprehensive communication and support XOi delivers supports Carrier’s commitment to providing an extraordinary service experience.”
XOi helps field service contractors and their teams drive productivity, elevate customer experience and help identify skilled technicians. For more information about XOi, visit https://xoi.io.
With the growth of the company’s PP-RCT piping solutions business continuing to expand, Uponor North America (Uponor) is launching hot potable pipe and fittings to help meet the demand for commercial domestic water systems. Uponor began offering PP-RCT pipe and fittings in 2020 with more than 300 parts for mechanical piping in sizes from ½” Read more
With the growth of the company’s PP-RCT piping solutions business continuing to expand, Uponor North America (Uponor) is launching hot potable pipe and fittings to help meet the demand for commercial domestic water systems.
Uponor began offering PP-RCT pipe and fittings in 2020 with more than 300 parts for mechanical piping in sizes from ½” to 12″ and cold potable piping in sizes from ½” to 8″. Now, with the addition of hot potable piping in sizes from ½” to 8″, Uponor has a comprehensive offering for mechanical and potable applications, all covered by a 10-year limited warranty.
Ritz-Carlton, Scottsdale/Paradise Valley, AZ, Central Plant/Distribution/In-Unit, Cool project – Villas (Condos), Hotel Tower, Casitas (Hotel/Rental), Domestic Hot and Cold, JB Henderson installed PP-RCT and Uponor PEX
“The momentum for Uponor PP-RCT is continuing to build, and the industry is recognizing the benefits of an all-polymer piping system, which includes our PEX-a pipe and ProPEX® fittings in sizes up to 3″,” says Michael Nicholson, business director, PP-RCT, at Uponor. “By including hot potable in our PP-RCT offering, we are now well-positioned to provide our customers with a complete polymer solution for both mechanical piping and domestic water projects.”
To ensure the offering would provide customers with the same high-quality, consistent, and reliable experience the brand is known for, Uponor was deliberate in the timing around bringing PP-RCT hot potable to market.
“We took our time to make sure every detail was addressed right the first time,” says Nicholson. “We worked diligently with our Research & Development, Quality, Engineering, and Construction Services teams to ensure the PP-RCT hot potable offering and system design would provide the same consistent results our customers have come to expect from Uponor.”
To further address demand, the company is also pursuing a multiple-source model that will offer a consistent supply of Uponor PP-RCT for customers and future commercial projects.
“While we have a secure supply of current offerings, including hot potable, Uponor is working to establish a multiple-source model that will expand our portfolio in the future, including larger-diameter PP-RCT pipes and other products,” says Nicholson.
For complete details about the Uponor PP-RCT offering, visit uponor.com/pprct. For information about all other Uponor products, systems, services, and solutions, visit uponor.com.