HVAC Factor Column

Industry experts write about maintenance/operations strategies, equipment and service trends, and overall concerns related to HVAC and facility management.

University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC)

Phase Change Material Subdues Hot/Cold Calls

At an outpatient facility, trial implementation of phase change material showcases latent heat storage that improves occupant comfort.
February 2020 Issue

Facility Executive | February 2020 Issue

The February 2020 issue introduces this year's Facility Executive of the Year. Plus, a look at building envelope issues, workplace redesign, and energy metering.
R-22 Refrigerant

R22 Refrigerant Phaseout

The move to ban R-22 refrigerant is nearly complete. What happens next?
natural gas

Natural Gas Challenges In The Northeast U.S.

Insufficient natural gas infrastructure? Variable refrigerant flow and split systems can offer a no-compromise solution.
HVAC upgrade

The Role Of HVAC Controls

When planning an HVAC upgrade, here are three control strategies to help ensure the new equipment runs as efficiently as possible.
legionella guidance

Updated Legionella Guidance On The Way

A supplement to ASHRAE Standard 188, the revised Guideline 12-2000R is expected to be published later this year.
refrigerant management

Stop Refrigerant Leaks Before They Start

Rising costs and new environmental regulations call for facilities to enact proactive refrigerant management programs.
ENERGY STAR

Improving Long-Term HVAC Performance

Cumulative impact of three operational strategies helped a multi-tenant office building recertify LEED and boost its ENERGY STAR score.
HVACR trends

Breakthroughs In Boiler Technology

Several innovations have led the way to improved commercial boiler design and performance.
Insulation

Applying Insulation To HVAC Equipment

The University of Maryland Medical Center garners operational benefits by installing reusable HVAC insulation in its central plant facilities.
HVAC Zone Control

Looking For HVAC Zone Control?

To satisfy energy efficiency and occupant demands, variable refrigerant flow systems may deliver on facility management needs.
Legionnaires’ Disease

Eight Lessons On Legionella Prevention Policy

Why state officials hold the keys to preventing Legionnaires’ Disease and ASHRAE Standard 188 is their best option for the next five years.
HVAC efficiency

Optimizing HVAC Systems

Gaining holistic knowledge of how the equipment is operating is significant to improving HVAC efficiency.
HVAC equipment

Short On HVAC Staff? Turn To Tech

The impact of HVAC equipment condition and operation is significant, and facility management should consider all the tools available.
HVAC equipment

Repair Versus Replace HVAC Equipment?

Preventive maintenance keeps HVAC systems running, but don’t forget to take the long view to plan for 2018.
LAX Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation

Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation Improves IAQ

With millions of travelers passing through LAX annually, facility management at the world’s seventh busiest airport chose UVGI, or UV-C, technology.
indoor air quality

Concerned With Poor IAQ?

A facility’s indoor air quality affects occupant health as well as energy efficiency. Take steps to mitigate negative impacts.
water energy nexus

Reduce Energy Use, And Save Water

An emerging focus on the water energy nexus—the interplay of these resources in building systems—holds promise for conservation.
Demand Control Ventilation

Derive Savings From Demand Control Ventilation

Among energy conservation measures, DCV provides significant energy reductions for the operation of HVAC systems.
HFC refrigerants

Refrigerants With Low Global Warming Potential

Regulations and overall concern for the environment is driving research to identify effective refrigerant alternatives with low GWP.
Smart Buildings: Enabling Facility Control And Automation

Did You Miss Our “Smart Buildings: Enabling Facility Control And Automation” Webinar?

View this free video webinar to learn about different types of smart building solutions, how intelligent asset monitoring can save money with predictive maintenance, and more!
Air Curtains

Did You Miss Our “Air Curtains: Conserving Energy And Ambiance At The Door” Webinar?

View this free video webinar and learn how air curtains save energy and reduce CO2 emissions, support the indoor experience, and conserve ambiance.

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