HVAC

• The Refrigerant Detection System Calculator is built into the Ducted Systems Solutions app, allowing contractors to easily and quickly determine if residential or commercial HVAC projects require a Refrigerant Detection System
• The Ducted Systems Solutions app is a centralized resource to find equipment information, including step-by-step installation guides and videos for commercial rooftop units and residential HVAC equipment

Johnson Controls Residential & Light Commercial has announced the launch of its Refrigerant Detection System (RDS) Calculator within the Ducted Systems Solutions (DS Solutions) mobile app. A first for the residential and light commercial HVAC industry, this innovative calculator is designed to help users determine the need for refrigerant detection systems based on specific conditions such as space dimensions and the amount of refrigerant being used.

This calculator is part of Johnson Controls’ broader initiative to transition to more environmentally sustainable refrigerants, like R-454B, which has a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to traditional refrigerants. The calculator is also designed to assist contractors and distributors with simple step-by-step installation instructions if they determine a RDS is needed.

“The transition to low-GWP refrigerants has been complex, as building codes that reference safety standards vary from state-to-state,” said Chris Forth, vice president of regulatory, codes and environmental affairs, Johnson Controls. “Our goal is to make the transition as seamless and confusion-free as possible for contractors and distributors so they can focus less on calculations and conversions, and more on providing efficient, safe and compliant installations. Our user-friendly calculator gives straightforward recommendations in just a few, simple steps.”

Available within the company’s DS Solutions App and product selection tools, the patent-pending RDS Calculator prompts users to answer a few questions about the job, such as refrigerant volume, supply air discharge height, total area being conditioned and potential zone impact. Once submitted, the calculator provides an immediate report summary and indicates if an RDS is recommended to ensure the application is compliant with current standards (UL/CSA-60335-2-40, 1). The report will also flag additional mitigation details, including whether additional exhaust air is required in the conditioned space, and provides a rationale report so contractors can easily act on the results.

A year of research went into the development of the RDS Calculator, including close collaboration with safety agencies to confirm compliance with current standards. The calculator is being launched alongside the shipment of the company’s newly updated A2L portfolio of residential and light commercial ducted HVAC products.

To comply with safety standards and ensure customer safety, new R-454B equipment can be equipped with a factory-installed refrigerant detection system engineered to detect refrigerant concentrations as determined by the safety standards and building code requirements. If a leak is detected, the RDS activates an alarm sequence and automatically shuts down equipment compressors, de-energizes attached ignition sources and activates airflow circulation to prevent the refrigerant from reaching its lower flammability limit.

Launched in 2022, the no-cost DS Solutions App provides contractors with instant access to commercial and residential equipment information such as installation guides, parts list, start-up sheets, warranty information and training videos to help streamline installation, troubleshooting and maintenance processes. This digital resource was designed to help enhance contractor efficiency by reducing the need for physical manuals and paper assets that can be time-consuming to navigate and sort through while on the job site.

The DS Solutions App is available for Android and iOS and can be downloaded from Google Play and the Apple App Store. For more information, visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/ds-solutions-app.

Taco has announced the launch of its innovative Manager Development Program (MDP), a transformative global initiative designed to cultivate leadership and foster professional growth. Developed in partnership with DDI and DiSC, the program reflects Taco’s dedication to investing in the development and success of its people.

“At Taco, our employees are at the heart of everything we do,” said Cheryl Merchant, CEO of Taco Family of Companies. “By nurturing our team’s talents and equipping them with essential tools, we not only unlock their full potential but also drive our collective success and growth as a global organization.”

The MDP is designed to meet the unique needs of managers while aligning with Taco’s strategic vision. With a focus on clarity and effective communication, the program ensures that content is accessible and actionable, thereby enhancing overall interactions and interpersonal skills.

“Taco is committed to advancing global employee development through cutting-edge programs and key alliances,” said Victoria McCoy, EVP of Global Human Resources at Taco. “Our collaboration with DDI and DiSC marks a significant shift from traditional learning and development practices to a more strategic approach that aligns with our organizational goals. Together, we’ve crafted a program that embodies Taco’s values, culture, and objectives, ensuring a unified leadership strategy worldwide,” concluded McCoy.

In essence, the MDP integrates modules that aim towards developing self, managing others and leading the organization. By providing a cohesive leadership framework across all regions, the program helps Taco forge meaningful connections and empowers its employees to reach new heights.

For additional information about the MDP or to explore career opportunities at Taco, please visit the Careers page at www.tacocomfort.com/careers.

As a significant portion of energy consumption in both residential and commercial settings, HVAC systems offer plenty of opportunities for efficient improvements. HVAC and plumbing provide crucial comfort and sanitary systems for each building, but the systems are not always installed, implemented, or used efficiently. Ineffective use of these systems can lead to lost energy, an excessively high comfort threshold, or greater stress on the equipment. By considering these factors, HVAC professionals can target their efforts to greater efficiency and optimal system performance.

Ensure Optimal Installation

Optimal installation can improve output, decrease the likelihood of overuse or system failure, and maintain a higher level of efficiency. Proper sizing is key. HVAC specialists should perform thorough load calculations and estimate the needs for temperature and humidity control in the space to determine the correct output range for the equipment. Installing temperature sensors in places without sun exposure or drafts can help to ensure accurate temperature control. Comprehensive testing of the equipment post-installation can confirm that the system works properly with correct output and high efficiency.

Optimize Damper Position

Damper position controls the volume of air that can enter a space at any given time. Variable air volume (VAV) boxes adjust the temperature and rate of airflow based on the load. In many cases, a VAV box’s damper position sits open to a higher degree than necessary, leading to wasted energy and improper temperature control. Setting the damper position to the minimum according to ASHRAE standards can minimize energy consumption without compromising performance.

Utilize Smart Data Systems

Smart systems can predict usage needs based on existing data about operation in similar spaces and can also adjust schedules and other controls for the needs of a particular space. Systems collect data about routine usage and use that information to create efficient settings for HVAC and plumbing. Sensors track temperature in individual rooms, providing real-time data about system efficacy and allowing owners to tailor usage for maximum comfort and efficiency. Use of these systems can decrease the number of manual overrides, as well as maintaining a precise level of temperature and humidity control.

Implement Temperature Controls

Dynamic temperature controls can minimize the use of energy to heat supply air or water, reducing energy consumption without compromising the ability to meet demand. Supply air controls can dictate the temperature of the supply air, adjusting upward or downward depending on the load. Similarly, boiler and water heater temperature controls can adjust the minimum or maximum temperature of the operating limit based on demand. Systems that change these limits dynamically can provide better heating for high demand, while minimizing use during lower load times.

Decrease Unnecessary Operations

A system that works automatically can provide heating, cooling, and ventilation when none is needed, calling for attention to unnecessary operation. Inaccurate scheduling, excessive manual overrides, and a lack of zoning systems can contribute to wasted energy. Specifically, owners should create commercial HVAC settings that maintain the proper temperature and humidity for the right times, minimizing use outside of peak hours. Adjusting ventilation based on occupancy can help to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature for areas with fewer numbers, while maintaining ideal ventilation in crowded spaces. Implementing smart automated systems can make the transition effortless, allowing building owners to manage dynamic heating, cooling, and plumbing needs.

Designing an HVAC or plumbing system to meet the needs of a space requires some analysis of overall efficiency. Overuse or ineffective use of a system can make a space feel uncomfortable or unsanitary, while contributing to high energy usage or increased repair needs. Evaluating the installation, setup, and use of each system can highlight ways for HVAC professionals to improve efficiency and performance. By adding smart technology and following best practices in mechanical systems, HVAC technicians and plumbers can eliminate wasted energy and accurately reach the comfort goals for the space.

Author Bio: Michael Carlson is the President of Gene May Heating & Cooling. He has been in the heating and cooling industry for more than 32 years and is the sole owner of the business.