via PrincipiaConsulting.com
Leading and emerging trends in the air conditioning market
The market for technology in the HVAC market is rapidly ever-changing. Developments for future technology focus on convenience and the user experience. Although the evolution of these products in HVAC may be in their infancy, most organizations are predicting that user experience will define the industry for years to come. The emphasis on convenience is creating increased demand for technology that may not even exist yet.
Principia is monitoring the advancements in technology which center on three areas of interest:
- Smart thermostats and technology
- System integration
- Air purification
It is no longer a matter of “if” we will see these technologies developed but a matter of “when.” The time for “when” will be here faster than we know it.
HVAC news has outlined the market and how these emerging trends are redefining the industry. These technology trends are expected to explode in the Americas, APAC, Europe, and MEA markets. The developments begin with upgrading the technology in thermostats and turning them into “Smart Thermostats.”
1. Smart Thermostats and Technology
Over the past twenty years, new technology has been delivered in a variety of methods and mediums and has rapidly improved. For example, phones can send text messages, pictures, email, and use high powered apps to increase productivity and efficiency. Now, we are seeing this incredible technology translate over to home systems. Convenience is the driving force for designing an effective and attractive home system.
As if the thermostat on the wall wasn’t easy enough, major technology providers are delivering the power to adjust your HVAC at the palm of your hands. Small as well as major players, such as Apple, are already focused on making sure that your home experience is at your fingertips.
Current product offerings and advancements include:
- The Apple HomeKit dates back to 2014 but due to changes in thermostats, door locks, and lightbulbs, the HomeKit itself has expanded. Consumers can now check the temperature in their home and adjust their heating and cooling systems remotely, from anywhere at any time. This technology is offered through an app platform so convenience is where ever your phone or tablet is.
- Amazon Echo and Google Home, are mimicking the Apple HomeKit features in a race to prove who has the most valuable product.
These transformations in technology are also creating and driving new demand outside of the HVAC market such as:
- Transforming current technology capabilities. A smartphone can be connected to a homeowner’s thermostat to control temperature of the home remotely.
- Drive product replacement. This move towards smart technology calls on the opportunity for appliances and other products in the home to be upgraded to be compatible with consumer’s new systems.
- Drive innovation. New technology is being developed to take the user experience to the next level. For example, a notification program to let consumers know what is currently in their fridge.
These new systems are generating a high demand for integrated systems. Consumers want all their products in one spot, not a variety of gadgets and technology that can be easily lost. This is leading to the birth of new technology.
2. Demand for Integrated Systems
KlikR is a Universal Remote Control that can be downloaded on to your phone. Is it possible that we can see one of these devices for the HVAC industry? Absolutely.
The consumer has been demanding the integration of systems for years. The focus on integration is being seen in multiple industries at the same time. Panasonic and other tech giants have recently expanded to increase their presence within the space. Industries that have seen the most recent advancement and investment into integrated systems includes home and building as well as aircraft.
Not only does this technology come as a convenience but companies are making innovations more affordable to reduce long term costs for consumers–creating product loyalty. Panasonic and Schneider Electric recently announced that they would be bringing commercial solutions with HVAC equipment to buildings around the globe.
Their solution centers on a wireless interface solution that helps businesses control their HVAC equipment, lighting, security, and power and electrical distribution. This sounds strangely similar to the Apple HomeKit solution provided for individual consumers. Granted, there are vasts technological differences but the parallels of the solutions center on convenience and integration.
The inspiration for advancements has even hit the startup industry, which has been exploding with different ideas for reducing costs and providing new ways to manage HVAC. One startup in particular, HiberSense is working to reduce costs for consumers. The startup is using gadget sensors and heating and cooling duct adjusters to control temperatures. Additional revolutionary startups can be expected from the recent boom to the industry.
3. Air Purifying Technology
It’s easy to want smart technology and demand for it to be integrated throughout our homes. But is the market rushing these advancements without considering quality? No – the increased demand is pushing the market to do the opposite.
Consumers aren’t solely demanding convenience when it comes to integrating home systems. They are also demanding quality. Air purification within the HVAC industry has been a top priority when it comes to quality and consumer safety. Even organizations like NASA have been bringing their technology to the residential and commercial HVAC industry.
NASA has discovered ways to increase air purification and is working to bring that technology to consumers. They are working to bring an air purifier that is easy to use, refined, fashionable, and provides clean air to customers at all hours of the day. The quality of NASA’s air purifier is unparalleled, with four main uses from the equipment:
- Elimination of VOCs
- Reduce top allergens
- Protect your family
- Clean the air
This is one of the many organizations looking to bring a high quality and affordable solution to consumers. But there are several reasons why quality products are hitting the market:
- Mandatory regulatory compliance. There have been efforts to force companies to deliver a higher standard of product.
- Expanded filter testing technology. It’s easier now to see when something needs to be replaced Streamlined efficiency. Faster processes have put products in consumers hands faster which helps usability.
- Online monitoring. Online monitoring has made it easier to spot corrosivity.
Key Takeaways
The trends of the HVAC industry will continue to reflect the demands from the consumer and product safety. Technology will drive most, if not all, of these advancements. There is a parallel of service and product offerings from other industries which is helping to drive opportunity and innovation within the HVAC industry. It may not be easy to identify but anything that enhances convenience, integration and quality of life is fair game when it comes to a rapidly changing HVAC industry.
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