HVAC systems have changed dramatically since their inception. The first furnaces were built in the 1700s and the room-sized cooling units of the early 1900s pale in comparison to the residential and commercial units used today. And now, HVAC technologies are poised to make another sizable leap by integrating artificial intelligence. AI will be integral to optimizing future heating and cooling systems by creating comfortable and sustainable living spaces while minimizing environmental impact and energy consumption. Models already in use by companies like KOVA can predict users’ heating and cooling needs and optimize output to save up to 30 percent...

SWORDS, IRELAND—Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, has been recognized in TIME’s inaugural rankings of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies. The list, published in collaboration with market research company Statista, celebrates companies that advance sustainable practices and promote corporate responsibility and social stewardship. “It’s a tremendous honor to be included on TIME’s inaugural list of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies,” said Paul Camuti, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer, Trane Technologies. “Sustainability is at the center of our strategy and is integrated into every aspect of our business. The urgent need for climate action is clear and so...

Many of you use PTAC units to heat and cool guestrooms and other spaces in your hotel. When those PTACs have reached the “end of life,” what do you do with them? I recently spoke with Mylien Collins, Vice President of Digital Marketing at RoomOne Solutions, to get her company’s take on the lifecycle of the PTAC. RoomOne Solutions’ PTAC4Less takes used PTACs and renovates them for resale back into the hotel market—contributing to a more circular economy. Any PTACs that cannot be revitalized are scrapped. “Every single piece gets recycled properly,” Mylien told me. Any refrigerant that needs...

ODESSA, FLA.—Green Lodging News has added new case studies to the Vendor Case Studies section of its website. The Commercial Green Solutions (CGS) case studies focus on projects completed in 2022/23 in Pennsylvania and Virginia, highlighting how hotel operators and owners are benefiting from utility programs. Westfield Marriott of Dulles wanted to better understand the condition of their mechanical systems and identify ways to improve energy efficiency. Partnering with CGS allowed the client to leverage Dominion Energy’s (utility paid) building tune up program and ASHRAE Level 1 energy audit. Projects ranged from PTAC cleaning to chiller tune-ups. The estimated...

ODESSA, FLA.—Green Lodging News has added Commercial Green Solutions to its Green Product & Service Directory in the “Consultants/Energy Management” category. Commercial Green Solutions provides an innovative approach to energy efficiency by functioning as a utility program accelerator. Its goal is to reduce clients’ operational expenses, minimize carbon footprint and find creative ways to contribute to profitability and sustainability. The company’s solutions include utility program implementation, PTAC/PTHP services (cleanings and replacements), ASHRAE Level 1 audits, HVAC cleanings/tune-ups, smart thermostats and EMS, full lighting retrofits, water efficiency programs, energy procurement and more. Call (202) 257-1876, or e-mail KennyW@commercialgreensolutions.com for more details.

Commercial Green Solutions (CGS) thrives off their ability to leverage utility programs to design energy efficiency projects for clients. Because every utility program is different, CGS spends just as much time with utility partners as they do with clients. Building relationships with service providers ensures access to the right programs that provide the best ROI, and in many cases the ability to create net zero and low-cost energy efficiency projects. The case studies featured focus on projects completed in 2022/23 in Pennsylvania and Virginia, highlighting how hotel operators and owners are benefiting from utility programs. Main Challenge The landscape of energy efficiency...

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y.—Ice Air, a leading innovator of HVAC solutions, has introduced the iCool XC Wall-Mounted Heat Pump, a sleek, compact (7.75” depth) versatile All Climate Comfort product that’s easier to install because of two very small wall openings needed. “It’s remarkable,” says Ric Nadel, Ice Air Founder and CEO, “because the iCool XC heat pump technology enables up to 25 percent greater efficiency and zero emissions. The design is compatible with any décor found in hotels today and installs quickly and easily.” Nadel points out that the iCool XC’s 4-function Heat, Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan modes partner perfectly with its...

NEW YORK, N.Y.—Invi Air, the Brooklyn-based company specializing in design-forward air diffusers and grilles, has revolutionized how designers think about designs with the introduction of the 1 Slot Diffuser With Light, available in Round and Square. This sleek, dual-functioning diffuser combines air distribution with LED lighting in a single product. The frameless, flush mount installation is an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional round duct registers. Perfect for small areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, or for anyone who wants to achieve a minimal look on their ceilings. Invi Air’s new product line with LED light elevates its architectural air diffusers...

LAS VEGAS—Nevada’s climate presents a unique challenge for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Due to its geographical location, Nevada experiences extreme temperatures, varying from intense desert heat in the summer to biting winter chills. This wide range of temperatures can significantly impact the performance and longevity of HVAC units. The lifespan of an HVAC system in Nevada is influenced by several factors, including installation quality, maintenance frequency, and usage patterns. However, the severe climatic conditions play a pivotal role. The high summer temperatures can cause air conditioners to work overtime, leading to wear and tear on components such...

LOS ANGELES—GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, and Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to climate resilience, announced the results of a peer-reviewed study by Altostratus Inc. examining the effects of cool pavements in mitigating urban heat. The study, which was conducted in the Pacoima neighborhood of Los Angeles as part of the GAF Cool Community Project, revealed reductions of ambient air temperatures by as much as 3.5°F during extreme heat events and a 25 to 50 percent reduction in the local census-tract urban heat island effect during temperature peaks. The results reinforce the efficacy of cool...