HIGH-PERFORMANCE HVAC
NEW AC RESPONSES
I
am inevitably reminded that every building in Canada isn’t air conditioned through a phone call or email request for advice on providing cooling to spaces where traditional forced air, ducted packaged or spilt system air conditioning is not practical. These applications may be older homes with radiant systems or workspaces in factories without air conditioning.
TO OLD APPLICATIONS
Most recently, the migration out of urban areas has spurred interest in upgrading electric baseboard heater or other non-ducted heating systems in homes in rural areas. Also spurring interest in air conditioning alternatives is the use of cottages as summer offices. HVAC contractors have access to and are likely familiar with the ductless mini-split air conditioning systems that much of the rest of the world has used to air condition buildings for decades. Indeed, this technology is now so prevalent across Canada, it might seem there is little to “write home” about but there are some important opportunities and considerations when applying the inverter or variable compressor capabilities inherent to the mini-split technology.
Gord Cooke
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M e c h a n i c a l
The availability of variable speed, mini-split cooling systems with a range of indoor unit sizes and configurations allows professional contractors to provide more responsive and effective cooling options to houses without forced air ductwork than ever before. Indeed, mini-split technology may do a better job of meeting client’s expectations for quick response cooling than whole home centrally ducted systems. Be sure to research and specify equipment that can provide the critical dehumidification function and meet expectations for smart control interfaces. Gord is a professional engineer who has spent 20 years helping builders and HVAC contractors implement innovative technologies into high-performance homes. He has particular expertise in IAQ and airflow management in houses, and can be contacted at gordc@buildingknowledge.ca.
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