Heating, Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning
Technology Snapshot &
Benefits:
HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning)
refers to the equipment, distribution network, and terminals that provide either
collectively or individually the heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning
processes to a building.
Estimated Cost Savings:
HVAC accounts for 40% to 60% of the energy used
in U.S. commercial and residential buildings. This represents an opportunity for
energy savings using proven technologies and design concepts.
Issues:
HVAC systems have a significant effect on the
health, comfort, and productivity of occupants. Issues like user discomfort,
improper ventilation, and poor indoor air quality are linked to HVAC system
design and operation and can be improved by better mechanical and ventilation
systems. In existing buildings, envelope upgrades are often necessary to
maximize comfort and energy efficiency, such as reducing envelope leakage.
(Click on the link below to read the complete article.)
Residential Buildings
Videos On This Topic:
From EcoBroker International:
From Other Sources:
How to Save by Maintaining
Your Furnace and Hot Water Heater (2:31) - The Home Depot - In many homes,
the furnace and hot water heater are the third largest energy expense.
This being said, it is important to make sure that your system is working at its
highest possible efficiency. To find out more about how proper maintenance
of your HVAC system can help you save money, watch this short video from The
Home Depot.
Home Heating Tips and
Alternatives (1:53) - The Home Depot - In this short video, find out about
some easy ways to help maximize the efficiency of your home heating system.
More Information On This
Topic:
Energy
Star: A Guide to Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling
Energy Star
Checklist for Maintaining your HVAC Equipment
Kansas State University: Selecting
a Home Heating System
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse:
Cooling Your Home Naturally
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse: Programmable
Thermostats
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Clearinghouse: Cooling
Your Home with Fans and Ventilation
Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse: Energy Efficient Air Conditioning