Advances in Water Heating Technology

Fall 2011

A SUPPLEMENT TO PENTON PUBLICATIONS

THE MAGAZINE OF THE AIR-CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION INSTITUTE

WORKING IN CERTIFICATION CARBON MONOXIDE THE ZONE PROGRAMS ALARMS PAGE 12 PAGE 18 PAGE 20

A resource for HVACR contractors and technicians, AHRI Trends is published in May and September prior to the annual cooling and heating seasons. Visit us online at www.AHRInet.org and www.AHRIdirectory.org.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute 2111 Wilson Blvd., Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22201 Phone: 703/524-8800 Fax: 703/528-3816 e-Mail: [email protected] www.AHRInet.org

Leadership Morrison Carter coverstory Chairman Stephen R. Yurek President & CEO 8 Advances in Water Heating Technology

Acknowledgements AHRI Communications Staff Francis Dietz and Monica Cardenas AHRI Technical Advisors (for this issue) features Sunil Nanjundaram, Marc Neufcourt, and Dave Calabrese 12 Working in the Zone

18 Certiﬁ cation Programs Publishing Ofﬁ ce 20 Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Every Home 1300 E. 9th Street Cleveland, OH 44114 216/696-7000 tel 216/696-1752 fax www.penton.com departments

Dan Ashenden 2 Chairman’s Message Group Publisher 4 Policy Watch

Mike Weil AHRI trends | www.AHRInet.org Editorial Director 27 The Final Word

Bob Mader Advertising Index Editor-in-Chief

American Standard ...... 3 Modine Manufacturing Co...... 24 Bradford White ...... 25 Parker Hanniﬁ n ...... 17 Bethany Borger Account Manager Danfoss ...... 21 Peerless Boilers ...... 23 Emerson Climate Technologies ...... 5 Rheem ...... IFC Lisa Murton Beets Contributing Editor Energy Conservatory ...... 15 Ritchie Engineering Company ...... 26 Flir Commercial Systems ...... 13 Shortridge Instruments Inc ....7, 22, 28 Jane Cooper Marketing Mitsubishi Electric ...... BC The Trane Company ...... IBC Shaun Kelly Production Manager Cavedweller Studio Art Direction 1 chairman’smessage

After the Heat of Summer, What’s Next?

Even though the approach of fall means crisp apples, AHRI and its member companies are very active in Wash- brightly colored leaves, and a greater use of home and ington, in the states, and around the world promoting our commercial heating equipment, it is still diffi cult for most industry and our world-class standards and performance of us to see summer go. But as we savor the memories of certifi cation programs. Together with our association another happy summer, we can ease into fall by perusing partners, including those that represent contractors, tech- this issue of AHRI Trends! nicians, and distributors, we are working to ensure a level playing fi eld for those who work in our industry. In this issue, we take a look at the latest technological trends in water heaters; an exciting new guide to the I hope you enjoy the articles. is magazine is for you. In proper design and installation of zone control systems it, we are committed to providing you with information (ACCA’s Manual ZR), the importance of carbon monox- that you can use in your everyday jobs. Please let us know ide detectors, and a handy primer on AHRI’s certifi cation how we’re doing, and thanks for reading! program and its growing importance in today’s energy- conscious world. In our Policy Watch, readers will learn Sincerely, about what’s happening in Washington, with federal agencies like the Department of Energy busily trying to duplicate successful private-sector programs like AHRI’s certifi cation program and a Congress mired in acrimony and completely occupied by spending curbs and the loom- ing presidential election cycle. All these things have very Morrison Carter serious consequences for our industry. AHRI Chairman AHRI trends | Fall 2011

American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning knows that reputations are built every day, with every sale. Which is why we’re proud to support American Standard dealers with extensive training, sales support, innovative products, industry-leading reliability and over a century of quality. If you’d like to be part of a better way to do business, we’d love to make your dealership part of our family. It’s time to contact your independent American Standard distributor.

American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, as comfortable as it is reliable. :AB@A>KLM:G=:K=H?

Zf^kb\ZglmZg]Zk]Zbk'\hf policywatch

Engaging Policy Makers on Energy and Environmental Issues

Department of Energy Extends by a letter from AHRI outlining several concerns, includ- Certifi cation Compliance ing the fact that the rule would result in increased costs, Deadline by 18 Months potential shipment delays, and administrative hurdles for At the urging of AHRI, the Department of Energy products covered by the rule—all of which are unneces- (DOE) has extended by 18 months the compliance sary given the fact that AHRI already reports compliance deadline for new certifi cation requirements specifi ed for with federal minimum effi ciency standards to DOE for commercial heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning participants in its certifi cation program. equipment; water heating equipment; walk-in coolers and freezers; and automatic commercial ice makers. While the rule was scheduled to go into eff ect on July 5, it was postponed 18 months to allow DOE to assess ways to e rule was originally published in the Federal Register reduce the testing burden on manufacturers. on March 7, 2011, setting forth onerous new procedures for manufacturers to demonstrate compliance with federal AHRI will continue to closely monitor this rule, and will energy effi ciency standards. It was immediately followed meet with DOE offi cials as necessary.

While the rule was scheduled to go into effect on July 5, it was postponed 18 months to allow DOE to assess ways to reduce the testing burden on manufacturers. AHRI trends | Fall 2011

policywatch

AHRI Praises Rule to Establish include even higher minimum effi ciency levels forheat- Regional Energy Effi ciency ing and cooling systems in their building codes for new Standards, Raises Concerns Over construction. e Senate bill also includes standards Limits on Stand-by Power for several other AHRI products based on similar con- e Department of Energy’s (DOE) direct fi nal rule sensus agreements. [Read more about the Implementa- establishing regional effi ciency standards for residential tion of National Consensus Appliance Agreements Act furnaces, central air conditioners, and heat pumps was of 2011 on page 7.] published in the Federal Register on June 27th. e rule mirrors effi ciency levels suggested in the consensus Based on these standards, a typical new air conditioner agreement crafted by AHRI and several energy effi ciency in the South will use about 40 percent less energy, and advocacy groups in October 2009. a typical new furnace in the North will use about 20 percent less than one sold before national standards were e minimum energy effi ciency standards and the established in the late 1980s. According to DOE, the standby power requirements will become eff ective on updated air conditioner and heat pump standards will May 1, 2013, for furnaces and January 1, 2015, for save enough electricity over 30 years to meet the total central air conditioners and heat pumps. e direct fi nal energy needs of 8.7 million typical American homes for rule is eff ective October 27, 2011, unless signifi cant a year. e new furnace standards will save about 31 bil- adverse comments are received on or before October 17. lion therms over 32 years, or enough natural gas over the If the DOE receives adverse comments that are deemed same period to heat 62 million typical American homes. to provide a reasonable basis for withdrawal of the direct (One therm is equal to 96.7 cubic feet of natural gas.) fi nal rule, a timely withdrawal of this rule will be pub- e new standards will save U.S. consumers more than lished in the Federal Register. $13 billion between their eff ective dates and 2030.

Even with DOE’s announcement, legislation is needed e signatories to the joint agreement on which the because a key provision of the agreement can only be standards are based are: AHRI, the American Coun- done via a change to the law. It would allow states to cil for an Energy-Eﬃ cient Economy (ACEEE), the AHRI trends | Fall 2011

6 The bill enjoys broad support because it would reduce the regulatory burden placed on manufacturers, reduce nationwide energy consumption, and save consumers money on their monthly energy bills.

Alliance to Save Energy, the Appliance Standards House Energy and Commerce Committee, has Awareness Project (ASAP), the California Energy expressed support for INCAAA, he has indicated that Commission (CEC), the Natural Resources Defense he will not allow his Committee to consider it until the Council (NRDC), other advocacy groups, and more Senate has acted fi rst. than a dozen individual furnace, heat pump, and air conditioner manufacturers. AHRI staff continues to work with our allies in the House and Senate to enact this bill before the end of AHRI-supported INCAAA the session. Bill Stalls in the Senate Early this year, the Implementation of National Con- sensus Appliance Agreements Act of 2011 (INCAAA) was introduced in the Senate by Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and Ranking Member Lisa Murkowski (I-AK). e bill would enact into law several consensus agreements on new regional standards furnaces, heat pumps, and central air conditioners. It would also enact new federal effi ciency levels for heat pump pool heaters, commercial furnaces, service-over-the-counter refrigerators, and small duct, high velocity air conditioners, as well as revisions to water heater effi ciency test procedures.

e consensus agreements contained in INCAAA were crafted by AHRI; appliance manufacturers, represented by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA); and energy eﬃ ciency advocates, including the American Council for an Energy-Eﬃ - cient Economy (ACEEE), the Alliance to Save Energy (ASE), and National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and the California Energy Commission. e bill enjoys broad support because it would reduce the regulatory burden placed on manufacturers, reduce nationwide energy consumption, and save consumers money on their monthly energy bills.

While Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), Chairman of the featurestory

Advances in Water Heating Technology

By Michael Maynard

anufacturers are developing a variety of new pump technology. Manufacturers are also incorporating technologies in water heating products and solar and geothermal equipment into their product lines Msystems to meet the demands of homeown- as these technologies move into the mainstream. Also, ers who want greater convenience and lower energy as technologies advance, they can be combined. ese bills—and to comply with new federal energy eﬃ ciency changes are creating new and innovative products that standards for such products, which go into eﬀ ect in 2015. encourage contractors to have conversations with their customers about how water heating has evolved and can

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 Among the technologies helping to advance water heater make a signifi cant diff erence in the home to create greater innovation are condensing gas-fi red systems and heat savings and meet their changing needs.

8 Moving toward planned replacements For most consumers, water heating is pretty much taken for granted—the unit is About 90 percent of water heater typically in the basement, often in a utility room, rarely seen, but used daily. Conse- replacements are of an emergency quently, about 90 percent of water heater nature, notes Marc Neufcourt, replacements are of an emergency nature, notes Marc Neufcourt, certifi cation manager certifi cation manager at AHRI. at AHRI. Homeowners often don’t plan to replace an existing unit with a higher effi ciency model—they typically rely on what the plumber/contractor has available when their water heater fails. While most homeowners will say that they never saw it coming, the expected service life for a residential water heater is 12 to 14 years.

In most cases, the consumer chooses the minimum eﬃ ciency model because they may not have any other options. “It’s a matter of how cheaply I can replace the unit, as rapidly as possible,” Neufcourt says of the homeowner’s mindset. “ ese typically have been the higher sales volume models.”

With new technologies, manufacturers want consumers hybrid electric water heater featuring heat pump to think more proactively about water heating products so technology. is model will off er new energy saving they can make more informed decisions about selecting technologies, enhanced comfort algorithms, and the the optimal water heater for their needs. Planned replace- hybrid industry’s fi rst color touch screen LCD display. ments also allow the consumer to fi nancially prepare for “ is easy-to-use, interactive touch screen display, the purchase and give the plumber/contractor enough similar to those found on other popular consumer elec- time to order the higher effi ciency unit. tronics, will provide homeowners greater insight into their water heating energy usage and tools to maximize Federal minimum energy energy savings,” says the director of advanced technol- effi ciency standards play a role ogy for that company. in driving new technology On April 16, 2015, the Department of Energy’s new While the new standards are almost four years away, effi ciency standards take eff ect. Condensing gas and heat manufacturers are already gearing up for the changes, pump technologies will play a signifi cant role in bringing redesigning some products and retooling their assembly AHRI trends | www.AHRInet.org water heaters to the new standards. For electric resistance lines. A representative from another major manufacturer storage water heaters, heat pump technology will be the says water heater technology will “change dramatically” in only way to achieve the 2015 energy effi ciency require- response to the new standards. ments for units over 55 gallons, Neufcourt says. While customer demand usually dictates the market for “Heat pump technology is more expensive, but with manufacturers, federal energy effi ciency standards will greater manufacturing capabilities, that cost is coming play a role in moving new technology into the main- down,” he adds. Federal tax credits and other local rebate stream. “Our company prefers to develop products based incentives from state governments and utilities will also on customer needs but this is not always the case,” the help to make heat pump technology more aff ordable. representative says. “For example, the new 2015 effi - ciency standards are driving the heat pump water heaters’ One major manufacturer, for example, is already development, even though the market for these products completing the development of its second-generation is currently somewhat limited.”

9 Tankless water heaters are also introduced a line of condensing tankless water heaters that it says are more becoming a more eﬃcient than its non-condensing tankless units, incorporating two innovative available option heat exchangers that enable the unit for consumers. to obtain the optimum heating value for every cubic foot of natural gas or propane. Te condensing technology recaptures residual heat from ﬂue gases to pre-heat incoming ground water so less energy is needed to heat the water to its desired temperature.

While the market remains relatively small compared to traditional storage type heaters, Neufcourt says that its numbers are increasing for a variety of reasons. “Sometimes it’s space. Some- times it’s a matter of saving energy and water heating costs,” he says. While these units are more expensive than a standard hot water heater, expect to see more of them from manufacturers as the market for them matures.

One tankless manufacturer has Technology to expand to developed a hybrid hydronic furnace / tankless water more consumer markets heater unit that provides forced air heat and domestic hot Recognizing that there are large segments of consumers water to a home at the same time. “Tis type of system who have not taken advantage of these new technologies, is very good for retrofit projects,” its representative says. manufacturers have expanded their product lines to try “And because it works with existing ductwork and air and reach them. One major manufacturer has introduced conditioning systems, it is an excellent replacement for a a new line of residential and light duty commercial prod- traditional gas furnace.” ucts that offer a number of performance enhancements and diagnostic capabilities that benefit homeowners and Te system gives priority to the water heating unit so that contractors. a home is never without hot water. To accomplish this, a flow sensor in the system detects when there is a hot water “While we are a leader in introducing new and innova- demand and temporarily suspends the air heating process tive niche products, whenever possible we will make new until the hot water demand is complete. Air heating technologies standard across an entire product range,” says resumes once the hot water demand is met. the manufacturer’s representative. “Our new system is a ‘game changing’ technology for gas water heaters.” One manufacturer says that demand for its tankless water heating solutions continues to grow for both whole-home Another major manufacturer has introduced a new line of and point-of-use applications. Its new line of such water gas water heaters that it says costs less to operate and heats heaters can, it says, provide an endless supply of hot water water more than 40 percent faster than current models. A to homeowners with 94 percent efficiency. representative touts the fact that the new units have a first hour rating of 90 gallons for a 50-gallon tank, meaning Solar systems expand homeowners get three times the amount of hot water in Manufacturers are increasingly offering solar and hybrid an hour than what the tank actually holds, he says. solar systems to meet demand in certain markets. Te tanks typically have some type of additional system that

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 Tankless water heaters are also becoming a more avail- keeps water hot when the sun isn’t shining, or during able option for consumers. One manufacturer recently periods of high demand. 10 One major manufacturer has expanded its solar heating One of the manufacturer representatives agrees. He products to more than 30 models. “We take a lot of pride also says that training is critical for contractors to help in our solar product line,” its representative says. consumers better understand the products. “Not just on the technical side, but on the sales side as well since con- All manufacturers interviewed see a lot of potential in the sumers look to their contractors as a resource and rely on solar market, but they acknowledge that the market is still them for the latest information about what technologies dependent on rebates, such as the federal subsidies that are available.” are in place through 2016. While federal standards may be driving demand for more Easier installation, but energy-effi cient technologies, manufacturers say they are less margin for error focused on customer needs. “ e competitive nature of With higher effi ciency products comes a smaller margin our industry means that manufacturers are constantly for installation errors, Neufcourt says, noting that about introducing new, more energy-effi cient options,” says nine out of 10 early water heater failures are due to an one manufacturer. “Every company wants to stand out incorrect installation. “Training is important for these from the crowd and launching improved technologies is a new devices,” he says. “Obviously, with less margin for surefi re way to get noticed.” error in the installation it’s important for the equipment to be installed properly and that reduces the number of Like many new technologies, appeal for emerging water warranty callbacks and unsatisfi ed customers.” heating-specifi c technologies starts with the high-end and environmentally conscious market segments. Interest and demand from early adopters then helps drive mass appeal for All manufacturers interviewed see a these solutions, according to manufacturers. lot of potential in the solar market, And once contractors start gaining hands- on experience with these technologically- but they acknowledge that the advanced water heating solutions, they’re able to migrate these effi ciencies farther into market is still dependent on rebates, their product portfolios. “ is ensures that the most popular aspects of emerging tech- such as the federal subsidies that nologies are accessible to consumers with a are in place through 2016. variety of water heating needs and budgets,” says one manufacturer.

What’s next? ere are a lot of innovative companies and individuals who are looking at new ways to come up with new technologies. e current Department of Energy defi nition for residential and commercial water heaters is very specifi c, Neuf- court says. He notes that a bill, currently AHRI trends | www.AHRInet.org stalled in Congress, would require DOE to do a rulemaking to establish a new test procedure for water heaters. Ensuring that test procedures refl ect the current state of the market levels the manufacturing playing fi eld and protects consumers.

Michael Maynard is a business writer based in Providence, RI. He writes frequently on HVACR, construction and architecture issues. Contact him at michael.maynard@ lycos.com.

11 featurestory

WORKING IN THE ZONE: Manual ZR Takes on Zoning Design and Installation

By Michael Maynard

or the homeowner with a schools have off ered coursework ing zone systems. When a question zoned HVAC system, there’s in this area, there has never been a arises—whether the contractor is Fnothing like knowing that comprehensive reference manual for planning a job or is already on the comfortable cool air in the summer contractors to rely on for guidance job—Manual ZR is designed to and warm air in the winter goes or advice. have the information they need. only to those rooms occupied at “It’s designed to help the contractor a particular time of day. A family e Air Conditioning Contractors do a much better, quality instal- feels more comfortable in the home, of America’s (ACCA) Manual J lation to achieve the goals of the more comfortable about the cost (Residential Load Calculation) and customer,” says Warren Lupson, effi ciency of such a system, and they Manual D (Residential Duct Design) AHRI’s Director of Education, can, literally, breathe easier. But were written before the growth of and a representative to the ACCA for many contractors, designing a zoning solutions and only briefl y Technical Committee. zoned system from the ground up or touched on it—not enough to retrofi tting zoning into an existing provide a contractor with specifi c Organizing the proper methods system can cause them to break out information on its design and of zoning and encouraging the in a cold sweat. installation. But for those who have development of design and installa- been searching for such a resource, tion best practices had been topics Properly designing and installing your wait is almost over: Say hello among zoning manufacturers since zone control systems requires the to Manual ZR, a new guide to be the Zoning Marketing Alliance contractor to fi t the specifi c require- published shortly. (ZMA) was formed in 2002. Once ments of the homeowner. While the ZMA was folded into the AHRI zoning equipment manufacturers Filling a void in Zone Control System Technol- have encouraged proper design and zoning education ogy (ZCST) product section, it installation techniques through Manual ZR is organized for prompted greater discussions about

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 courses and design guides (based contractors who need a sound getting the message out regarding on their products), and technical resource for designing and install- zoning products in general.

12 Meanwhile, ACCA had developed its cooling systems and ductless split- included, with sections related to Quality Contractor programs and its coil heat pump systems that have the system capabilities and arrange- success in recognizing “best prac- two or more indoor units. ments around ductless single-split tices” in zoning gave AHRI a natural equipment and single-package partner. “Te ACCA manuals have Issues pertaining to zoning with equipment, convective and radiant been an important part of the HVAC distributed equipment and how heat and, for a very large home or industry for years,” says one major they apply to the one-piece-of- compound, central chiller and boiler manufacturer, “and when they recog- equipment-per-zone concept are also with air handlers. nized the need for more information on zoning, the match with the goals of the AHRI Zone Controls section seemed well aligned.”

Te section became a contributing sponsor in helping ACCA develop Manual ZR. Two representatives from the ZCST Engineering Com- mittee served on the review committee and assisted in the development of much of the manual’s content.

A comprehensive approach to zoning design and installation Thermal Te end result is a guide that includes: General Guidance; Zone Imaging Price Damper Systems; Zoning with Breakthrough Multi-Split Equipment; Zoning i-Series Performance and Ease-of-Use with Distributed Equipment; and Starting at $1,195 Advanced Topics and Related Guid- ance, which includes appendices. Open Doors and Grow Your Business

General Guidance for Zoned With 50 years of experience and more than 200,000 thermal Systems provides an overview of cameras delivered, see how FLIR’s new low-cost i-Series can understanding zoning issues as ﬁ nd your problems and change your game. they pertain to the structure, the equipment, and the occupants. It summarizes the beneﬁts of zoning, the zoning methods and equipment options, guidance on how to produce a zone plan, and load calculations for zoned systems.

Te manual’s section on zone damper systems includes the types of zone damper systems, equip- Visit www.fl ir.com/ahri for a complete ment and components used for video demonstration of the i-Series, or call 866.477.3687 today. air zoning, zone damper system design, and managing excess air. Te Quality – Innovation – Trust issues around zoning with multi- NASDAQ: FLIR The thermal images shown are for illustrative purposes only, and may not have been taken by the camera series depicted. split equipment are also addressed, Share your passion for thermal providing contractors with a greater InfraMation 2011 imaging, and discover innovations in The Leading Infrared Camera Users Conference! Building Thermography. understanding of ductless split-coil Visit www.inframation.org to Bally’s in Las Vegas | November 9 - 11 learn more and register today! Tere is also a series of appendices who don’t believe it to be a viable down by the developer-builder and highlighting expanded support for option. “Te manual confirms there’s a lack of information on some of the concepts and guid- much of what my company has the use pattern or the needs of the ance within the manual, including stated for over 50 years when my occupant, the manufacturer adds. duct system design, balancing zone dad began selling the first motor- “Historically, I hear few contractors damper systems and condensation ized dampers, registers, and diffus- happy with the layout of the supply calculations. ers for forced air zoning,” he says. and returns called for in most new construction projects. Most of these Another important key to the When he was a contractor, Lupson systems were designed based on ease credibility of Manual ZR will be its says, a Manual ZR would have of installation and cost.” eventual designation as an ANSI helped tremendously. “Sometimes standard. Lupson says that hav- my zoning jobs didn’t work out the On the retrofit side, contractors ing ANSI approval is important to way I expected them to,” he says. must be knowledgeable about air the credibility of the final product. “If I had a manual like this, I would flow, and manufacturers must be “It’s about peer review from just have had a better understanding of flexible on the application of their about every angle you can possibly design and the impact of any retrofit products. “In the field, creativity think of. It’s an open, precise way changes,” he says. and attention to system demands of knowing if something is good, are key skills for a successful ret- bad, or indifferent before it’s ever One contractor feels there are too rofit contractor application,” one released,” he says. many HVAC contractors who are manufacturer says. Tis is where the afraid to take on zoning, which is majority of the zoning opportunities An important component another issue that he hopes Manual exist today, he adds. in the education process ZR’s publication will address. “In Manual ZR is not intended for the my opinion, if a homeowner asked A new appreciation for contractor who is just starting out in a contractor to install zoning, meeting customer needs zoning or for the DIYer. Instead, the more often than not that contrac- Zoning addresses many issues that manual is designed for contractors tor would add a separate system of are near the top of homeowner con- with duct design and equipment mini-splits,” he says. He points to cerns: comfort, energy savings, and selection experience. Manufacturer a consumer survey in which more convenience. Tey’re no longer as and wholesaler training and educa- than 60 percent of homeowners willing to accept hot or cold spots in tion will remain an essential part of would buy zoning. “Te problem rooms; rather, they want better ways how contractors learn about equip- is most contractors simply don’t to cut their energy bills, and they ment and proper zoning techniques, offer it.” don’t want to think about how it all as will the courses taught by trade comes together. What also makes and technical schools. But Manual Other contractors agree. A mini- zoning an attractive option is the ZR will fill some significant gaps in split may not be ideal for a space, way people use their homes today the learning process. one says, but contractors with with finished basements, bonus inadequate zoning installation train- rooms, and home offices. Tose “What was lacking was a more ing may prefer to install what they applications need to be conditioned thorough discussion of air flow as know—even if it isn’t right for the differently if homeowners want to opposed to product education,” space—rather than risk trying some- be productive using that space for a says a manufacturer. “Te issues thing unfamiliar. “Tey are doing new purpose. with airflow today are substantial.” what they know how to do,” says the Multiple stage equipment and new manufacturer. “Tey really don’t care “Homeowners wouldn’t have to air flow strategies create opportuni- that the mini-split is too big for the be uncomfortable in their home ties for targeting areas of service space being conditioned. Tey really or office if contractors would just and accommodating the changing don’t mind charging for a second install zoning on every installa- requirements of residential systems, install and the maintenance on two tion,” says another manufacturer. he points out. systems going forward.” He uses the example of lighting to make his point. “Just like you have Another major manufacturer says Even for those contractors who do a light switch in every room, why

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 he hopes Manual ZR will help zoning, the zoning design in new not a thermostat? Te cost to heat legitimize zoning among those construction is typically handed and cool your homes is a lot more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he ENERGY SURGXFWOLWHUDWXUHDQGFRPSOHWHRZQHU·VPDQXDOYLVLW CONSERVATORY RXUZHEVLWHDWZZZHQHUJ\FRQVHUYDWRU\FRP DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS TO MEASURE BUILDING PERFORMANCE DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS TO MEASURE BUILDING PERFORMANCE 7KH2QH 2QO\'XFW%ODVWHU 'XFW$LUWLJKWQHVV7HVWLQJ6\VWHP 7KH'XFW%ODVWHUIURP7KH(QHUJ\&RQVHUYDWRU\LVWKHOHDGHULQ GXFWDLUWLJKWQHVVWHVWLQJ3URYHQLQWKHILHOGE\+9$&WHFKQLFLDQV IRUPRUHWKDQ\HDUVWREHOLJKWZHLJKWHDV\WRXVHUXJJHG UHOLDEOHDQGDFFXUDWH 7KH'XFW%ODVWHU6\VWHPFRPHVZLWK 7KHFKDQQHO'*3UHVVXUHDQG)ORZ*DXJH )DQZLWKIORZULQJVDQGVSHHGFRQWUROOHU )OH[GXFWDQGKRVHV &DUU\LQJFDVHLQVWUXFWLRQVDQGYLGHR 7KH'XFW%ODVWHU6\VWHPLVWKHSUHIHUUHGV\VWHPIRU 7LWOHWHVWLQJLQ&DOLIRUQLDDVZHOODVGXFWOHDNDJH FRPSOLDQFHWHVWLQJLQ)ORULGD7H[DVDQGIRU(QHUJ\ 6WDUWHVWLQJWKURXJKRXWWKHFRXQWU\

)RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQDVZHOODVSULFLQJDQGGHOLYHU\ LQIRUPDWLRQFDOOXVDW7RVHH The ENERGY OLWHUDWXUHRZQHU·VPDQXDODQGYLHZWKHYLGHRYLVLWRXU CONSERVATORY

ZHEVLWHDWZZZHQHUJ\FRQVHUYDWRU\FRP DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS TO MEASURE BUILDING PERFORMANCE Zoning addresses many issues that are near the top of homeowner concerns: comfort, energy savings and convenience.

than lighting, so why waste it in “Manual ZR is important because the duct system, after the installa- zones you’re not using or that might it means our products are rec- tion, to improve the performance, already be comfortable?” ognized as important tools for comfort, and energy savings of the contactors. Tat point is clear,” says overall system.” He notes that the sales of zon- a manufacturer. “Te implementa- ing systems over the last few years tion of that tool remains subject to While Manual ZR will provide have declined, a trend that mirrors the products we develop and our real value to contractors on zon- the decline of the housing market. ability to engineer solutions that ing designs and installations, the While zoning has grown as more speak to the opportunities contrac- most important element remains zoning manufacturers have gotten tors see to serve their customers.” in understanding the customer’s into the market, the manufacturer needs. Too often, one manufacturer says that it is still less than 4% of One major Midwest manufacturer, says, contractors start solving issues the shipment of HVAC systems. for example, has a two-day course before they have fully communi- “Miniscule if you consider the num- with hands-on training using zone cated with the customer. “I am con- ber of homes in the country with dynamics in its manufacturing fident that those contractors who forced air,” he says. facility. In addition, the manu- care about customers will learn the facturer trains with its distributor proper methods, use some of the “Te person who ends up reading partners and offers webinars and Manual ZR theories and continue this manual understands that zoning downloadable literature. “We are to solve customer issues,” he says. is a very good option for them and committed to contractor education makes sure that their customer is and increasing the opportunities “Te book is being produced to comfortable,” Lupson says. “Zoning for business our contractors see in make sure that a good product is is one of those things that people this difficult recovering economy,” available to the end user and that can do to increase comfort in their says one of its representatives. everybody involved has a good house, and save energy.” understanding of what needs to Another major East Coast manu- be done, what should happen, and As consumers take greater control in facturer said his company has led what will happen if they take a making decisions about their home training sessions for contractors, short cut,” Lupson says. comfort and they become more engineers, and wholesalers for aware of zone options, they will more than 35 years. He says the Manual ZR will be available within press contractors on this issue. As zoning industry has fallen short in the next six months. consumers drive zoning sales from how they train contractors. “I’ve the bottom up, the challenge for taught about the controls and manufacturers will be to raise aware- duct design. It’s sad that so many Michael Maynard is a business writer ness from the top down. Manual in our industry are only focused based in Providence, RI. He writes ZR can help to fill the gap in the on the box: the basic furnace and frequently on HVACR, construction

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 middle, supplementing the other the air conditioning unit,” he says. and architecture issues. Contact him training and educational programs. “Very few contractors will look to at [email protected]. 16 Together, we can improve your system performance, inside…and out.

Inside the system, a Sporlan Catch-All® Filter-Drier removes moisture, acid, scale, and other contaminants, while the OF Series Oil Filter captures up to 98% of two micron sized particles. Together, they eliminate contaminants that cause compressor wear, plug metering devices and reduce operating efﬁciency.

Outside, condensing units collect dirt and grime, reducing air flow and forcing the compressor and fan to run longer—a dirty condenser can increase compressor energy consumption by 30%. Parker Virginia coil cleaners quickly dissolve damaging build up, increasing airflow and optimizing system efficiency.

Clean your system, improve your performance – inside and out.

www.sporlan.com featurestory

Certiﬁ cation Programs BUILD CONFI

AHRI-certifi ed products are subjected to annual roducts that bear the AHRI Certifi ed® mark are random testing to ensure that the manufacturers’ subject to annual random testing to ensure that performance claims are accurate. Pthey will perform as stated by the manufacturer. Certifi ed performance instills confi dence in:

By Lisa Murton Beets • Specifying engineers – that the system will perform as specifi ed when their reputation is on the line. • Building owners – that the product will deliver comfort, real energy savings, and accurate return on investment. • HVACR contractors – that they can have confi dence in what they are selling to their customers. • Consumers – that they will indeed receive what they assume they are paying for and will qualify for appli- cable rebates and other incentives. • Regulators – that they will have unbiased and accurate evaluation of heating, water heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and commercial refrigeration equipment when developing policies related to energy effi ciency goals.

While it is true that systems must also be properly designed, installed, operated, and maintained to achieve intended results, certifying that the equipment itself will perform as promised is an essential starting point.

AHRI serves as the organization that works with manufacturers and other stakeholders to develop rating methods and certifi cation programs and also administers the programs once they are in place. At present there are certifi cation programs for 36 diff erent product categories.

In 2009, AHRI introduced the new AHRI Certifi ed® mark to replace the ARI Performance Certifi ed, GAMA Effi ciency Rating

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 Certiﬁ ed, and I=B=R marks. While the new AHRI Certiﬁ ed mark is currently in

18 tioning and Heat Pump Equipment, which took approxi- mately three years.

“It can take a short time to develop a certification program, or it can take a long time,” says Jon Lemmond, AHRI denCe certification engineer. “VRF equipment is quite compli- cated. We started the initial testing in August. Once we are satisfied with our testing requirements, we will publish data. Te tests are very detailed and rigorous.” effect for some programs, all remaining programs will use the unified mark by January 1, 2012. Learn more at Lemmond says there are already five manufacturers of www.ahrinet.org. VRF equipment seeking certification, and the program is expected to grow very rapidly. “Tere is already a lot of Birth of a Program interest, with people asking when the program is going to Consumer needs and/or industry demand drive the start. We’re also getting a lot of inquiries from VRF equip- development of new certification programs. Energy issues, ment manufacturers that are not AHRI members.” along with the desire to generate greater market penetra- tion of specific solutions, are often motivating factors. While VRF equipment is relatively new in the United States, it has been used for many years in Europe and Before a new certification program can be developed, Asia. “We are essentially moving to certify a globally used there must first be a rating standard and method to test piece of equipment,” says Jim Walters, AHRI’s vice presi- equipment. AHRI member companies (the manufactur- dent of international affairs. “Te global manufacturers ers of the equipment) work with AHRI staff and other drove this, and it’s a real testament to the global relation- industry associations, such as ASHRAE, to develop these ships that AHRI has.” standards and methods. After that, a proposed Operations Manual, which governs how the program is to be admin- AHRI Director of Certification Sunil Nanjundaram istered, is written. Te manual must then be circulated, reports that the certification program for indoor pool finalized, and approved. A qualification testing period dehumidifiers is about one step behind the VRF program, follows before any data can be published. but that it is progressing well—testing should begin before the end of this year. “We’re also in the early phases Once a program is underway, a manufacturer can apply of developing programs for chilled beams, unit coolers, to have its products tested. Performance is measured and and variable frequency drives (VFDs),” he notes. verified, and if the equipment meets the rated performance, the manufacturer will be granted the right to use “We’re always looking to increase our certification port- the AHRI Certified® mark. Te company’s data are also folio,” adds Walters. “Our industry is subject to many uploaded to the AHRI Directory of Certified Product regulations, and more certification programs mean more Performance, which is accessible at www.ahridirectory.org. avenues to show our positive performance. When you look at the larger picture of what is happening today envi- Participation is voluntary and open to all foreign and ronmentally, our certification program is an important domestic original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) building block in any environmental effort. For example, AHRi trends | www.AHRInet.org and private brand marketers (PBMs) whose products fall our test data can prove that when a manufacturer says its within the scope of one or more certification programs. equipment uses less energy, the statements are true.” OEMs and PBMs do not have to be AHRI members to participate, and their products do not have to be sold in HVACR contractors are encouraged to explain AHRI North America. certification to their customers. “When you can say, ‘this product is AHRI certified to do this and to do that,’ you New Programs on the Horizon are educating the customer and building credibility to Two new certification programs are currently underway: make the sale. It enables the customer to better under- one for variable refrigerant flow (VRF) equipment and stand the equipment and helps them feel confident about one for indoor pool dehumidifiers. Te VRF program what they are buying,” Walters says. will be rolled out first. Te first step was the development of AHRI Standard 1230, Performance Rating of To learn more about AHRI certification programs, go to Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Multi-Split Air-Condi- www.ahrinet.org/certification.aspx.

19 featurestory

CARBON MONOXIDE Alarms in Every Home.

ppliance improvements and standards have made While AHRI believes proper installation and maintenance our daily living more convenient and safer. Even of appliances is the most eff ective way to avoid incidents Awith more gas and oil-fi red furnaces, water heat- that involve gas and oil-fi red appliances, the installation of ers, and stoves in service around the country the annual CO alarms can alert occupants if the CO level in a home carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings from appliances are increases as a result of any source. fewer each year; however, one number continues to climb. Consumers can be at risk when they improperly use gas Several states and municipalities have introduced legisla- generators, charcoal grills, and fuel-burning camping tion that would require CO alarms in residences with heaters and stoves inside their homes or in other enclosed fossil fuel-powered appliances; however, not in all- or partially-enclosed spaces. CO poisoning can also occur electric homes. ese attempts to require protection for when fuel burning appliances that have not been profes- occupants fall short of real CO alarm protection from all sionally inspected can produce excessive levels of and leak possible sources. e death toll from carbon monoxide CO into the home. Automobiles, fi replaces, barbeque associated with generators and other portable equip- grills, portable gas-fi red pressure washers, and genera- ment has been steadily rising in recent years. Detection tors generate CO as a byproduct of combustion and can and alarm protection is needed not just for fossil fuel contribute to CO poisoning. powered appliances but also for fi replaces, automobile garages, and portable gas powered tools and equipment. Although the popularity of carbon monoxide (CO) Contractors, service providers, or a neighbor’s portable, alarms has been growing in recent years, it cannot be assumed that everyone is famil- iar with the hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. It is not heavier or lighter than air but mixes with the air in a room or building. Breath- ing CO at high enough concentrations can be fatal or cause permanent injury. Sources of CO in buildings include: fi re, malfunctioning or improperly vented combustion appliances, improperly used or

AHRI trends | Fall 2011 placed engine-driven tools, charcoal grills, camp stoves, and automobile exhaust. 20 MAKING MODERN LIVING POSSIBLE

Empower your solution with Danfoss Variable Speed compressors

2TR Performer® VSD Residential Applications Innovation Award 200TR AHR Expo 2010 Turbocor® Large Commercial Applications Innovation Award AHR Expo 2003

20TR Performer® VSD Commercial Applications Innovation Award AHR Expo 2009

www.danfoss.us www.turbocor.com The death toll from carbon monoxide associated with generators and other portable equipment has been steadily (CPSC), about 140 people die each year from unintentional exposure to carbon mon- rising in recent years. Detection and alarm oxide associated with consumer products. Many of these deaths occur after hurricanes, protection is needed not just for fossil fuel ice storms, and blizzards when portable generators and barbeque grills are used for light powered appliances but also for ﬁreplaces, and heat during an electrical service outage. automobile garages, and portable gas In January 2007, CPSC required manu- powered tools and equipment. facturers to place a danger label on all new generators and the generators’ packaging.

fuel-powered equipment operation can also put a home’s AHRI supports the installation and use of carbon mon- occupants at risk. A gas-powered tool such as a pressure oxide (CO) alarms in all one- and multi-family dwelling washer placed outside a window, doorway or vent can ﬁll units in the United States. Te CO alarms should: a home with CO in minutes. • Be listed to ANSI UL 2034, Standard for Single and Multiple Station CO Alarms or CSA 6.19, Residential Every year, there are documented CO poisoning events Carbon Monoxide Detectors, associated with power outages due to weather, where • Be installed according to NFPA 720, Standard for people ﬁnd ways or use other methods to supply heat the Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Warning and light, or cook indoors. In the coldest months of Equipment in Dwelling Units, and winter, storms leave CO poisoning deaths in their wake. • Have a battery backup to operate during According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission power outages.

Along with supporting the installation of CO alarms in all residences, AHRI encourages continued research and development to further improve durability and reliability of CO alarms.

Te CPSC and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) urge consumers to take these important steps to protect themselves against CO poisoning: • Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home. • Never bring a charcoal grill into the house for heating or cooking. Do not barbeque in the garage. • Never use a gas range or oven for heating. • Open the ﬁreplace damper before lighting a ﬁre and keep it open until the ashes are cool. An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home. • Have home heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually by a trained service technician. • Install battery-operated CO alarms or CO alarms with battery backup in your home outside separate sleeping areas. • Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepi- ness, and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, get outside to fresh air immediately, and then call 911. Our Peerless® Boiler Family Just Got Bigger!

Series Series TCII™ SC/SCT™ up to up to 5,553 MBH 794 MBH

Series GM™ up to 399 MBH

Peerless® PUREFIRE ® up to 1,000 MBH Series 64™ up to 632.5 MBH

Series Series 211A™ LC/LCE™ up to up to 9,450 MBH 4,663 MBH

We’ve added to our Peerless® Boiler family—two NEW commercial-size, gas-fired condensing boiler models, the PF-850 (850,000 Btu) and the PF-1000 (1,000,000 Btu), part of the Peerless® PUREFIRE® line of products. The new larger PUREFIRE ® sizes are cascade capable (up to 16 boilers) and feature a unique condensate system with built-in neutralizer and float switch protection. Thermal efficiency is near 97%.

Learn more about the NEW PUREFIRE ® boiler sizes and our entire commercial line of products at PeerlessBoilers.com! PB Heat, LLC, 2011 e National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recom- • Calling your local fi re department’s non-emergency mends: number to fi nd out what number to call if the CO • Installing CO alarms (listed by an independent testing alarm sounds. Post that number by your telephone(s). laboratory) inside your home to provide early warning Make sure everyone in the household knows the diff er- of accumulating CO. Carbon monoxide alarms should ence between the fi re emergency and CO emergency be installed in a central location outside each separate numbers (if there is a diff erence). sleeping area. If bedrooms are spaced apart, each area • Testing CO alarms at least once a month and replace will need a one. CO alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • Knowing the diff erence between the sound of smoke alarms and CO alarms. CO alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. • Having fuel-burning heating equipment (fi replaces, furnaces, water heaters, wood and coal stoves, space or portable heat- TM ers) and chimneys inspected by a professional every year before cold weather sets in. • Selecting products tested and labeled by an independent testing laboratory when purchasing new heating and cooking equipment. • Open the fl ue for adequate ven- step inside for a breath of fresh air. tilation when using a fi replace. • Never using your oven to heat your home. • Having a qualifi ed technician evaluate the integrity of the heating and cooking systems, as well as the sealed spaces between the garage and house, when buying an existing home. • Removing a vehicle from the garage immediately after starting it if you want to warm it up. Do not run a vehicle, gen- erator, or other fueled engine or Introducing Atherion. In mythology, the name refers to the clean air motor indoors, even if garage only the gods could breathe. In reality, it’s the way Modine brings the doors are open. Make sure the fresh air from outside into your workplace. exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not covered with snow. Designed to provide significant outdoor air ventilation to any space. • During and after a snowstorm, • 15-30 ton commercial packaged ventilation system with optional energy recovery make sure vents for the dryer, • Meets latest ASHRAE 90.1 and 62.1 standards for efficiency, green building and indoor air quality furnace, stove, and fi replace • Best-in-class MERV 16 filtration are clear of snow build-up. • Higher IAQ with up to 100% outside air ventilation • Only using barbecue • Industry-leading high efficiency gas heating option with grills—which can produce Conservicore™ Technology CO—outside. Never use • ™ Integrates Modine’s PF microchannel condenser technology them in the home, garage, • The latest in cooling technology with factory-installed microprocessor controls Raise YouR comfoRt level or near building openings.

MODINE MANUFACTURING COMPANY | 1-800-828-HEAT | www.MODINEHVAC.com

For more information, call 1-800-828-HEAT or visit www.MODINEHVAC.com. For the fifth “We made the switch to Bradford White almost 15 years ago when we started having problems with another brand. Our reputation depends on the products we recommend so quality and reliability are critical. straight year, We couldn’t be happier. Bradford White is loyal to the plumbing profession. Their products and people are Bradford White top notch.” Kevin and Ryan Carney - Carney Plumbing – Heating – Cooling, Line Lexington, PA is the tank water heater brand The results of the 2010 And now our support for you gets * most purchased CLEAReport, an independent water even better. Bradford White has heater study by Clear Seas just opened a 24/7, factory-based by professional Research, revealed that product call center. contractors. quality, service, technical support, This fully staffed technical service And again, and the fact that Bradford White is team is there when you need it, we are the most not sold in retail stores were the anytime day or night. most important factors to We’re making it easy for you to recommended contractors when selecting a be a Bradford White contractor. brand. brand of tank type water heater.

™ www.bradfordwhite.com | Built to be the Best | To Find A Wholesaler Call 800.523.2931

*Ranking is based on the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 CLEAReports by Clear Seas Research. Please visit www.clearseasresearch.com for additional information. © 2011, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved. Having the best-engineered Refrigeration System Analyzer is cool. But knowing how to get the most out of it is even cooler. That’s why Ritchie Engineering is starting YELLOW JACKET® University. From product demos and videos to tips and tricks from the pros, YJU can bring you to a higher degree of success. Visit www.yellowjacketuniversity.com/ahri today.

“Winds of Change” at NATE

orth American Technician Excellence, Inc. that tie into that theme—from investigating mechanisms (NATE) is truly an organization that is on the to further standardize and simplify the process of sitting Nmove and achieving new heights in its service for our examinations, to increasing the use of the web to the HVACR industry. As an ANSI/ISO Accreditation to help candidates manage the process of preparing for, Applicant, NATE continues to set the bar on excellence achieving, and maintaining certifi cation. ere is not a in testing, validating, and certifying installation and day that goes by when we don’t, as a management team, service technicians within our industry. To date, some challenge the status quo and work to develop better and 50,000 industry technicians have been NATE certifi ed. more effi cient ways to market NATE certifi cation to Over 20,000 individual tests are administered annually our industry. Part of this is to drive interest in sitting for to technicians nationally—and that number is growing NATE examinations electronically and I am pleased to incrementally. I am thoroughly excited about the future note that metric is increasing to a monthly average of 29 for NATE and believe that, through our industry’s collec- percent. Another part of these eff orts is to begin the pro- tive eff orts, certifi cation of HVACR professional techni- cess of creating Spanish language equivalents for NATE cians will continue to evolve into a mainstream requisite examinations and KATEs (Knowledge Areas of Technician in the marketplace. Expertise). It is our ambition to execute this initiative in the near term and in so doing expand the reach of NATE Since I came aboard as NATE’s new President and CEO certifi cation. last September, an underlying theme seems to have emerged that I have been focused on. at theme is Speaking on behalf of our management team, we want AHRI trends | www.AHRInet.org “MAKE NATE EASIER TO DO BUSINESS WITH.” NATE to continue to be more customer-driven. To that Currently NATE has embarked on a number of initiatives

27 end, we are focusing on what I refer to as high touch, Likewise, NATE is developing a new Energy Performance personalized service to all individuals whom we serve. Standards certification in conjunction with ACCA and RESNET, which is slated for introduction in early 2012. NATE also has been working diligently to become more It is the first in what we hope will be a suite of “whole- of a safe harbor for its designees and designee candi- house” certifications that NATE will develop and in so dates. We have accelerated our work to more effectively doing expand its reach to additional segments of the reach out to HVACR technicians and support them in weatherization and efficiency market. their continuing professional development. Part of that strategy encompasses expanding the number of voca- Last spring NATE embarked on its first-ever national tional schools and training organizations with which we consumer advertising campaign. Tat initiative, using work, increasing our testing center base, and becoming prime time nationally syndicated radio commercials, will a destination portal for training and testing opportuni- continue this fall during NFL and NCAA football games, ties on a national platform, via a newly designed NATE and CBS News. It is part of NATE’s commitment to web site. My personal ambition is to truly create a home market quality installation and service by certified techni- base for NATE-certified technicians that they regard as a cians to the public. Tis year, in addition to the consumer positive and necessary resource in their ongoing profes- media campaign, NATE has developed new collateral sional development. pieces, accelerated its electronic marketing, and expanded its participation in regional and national industry trade NATE, in my estimation, is poised to assume an events—all with the objective of promoting the value expanded role in the forward movement of energy quotient of NATE certification. efficiency and to that end we have initiated outreach programs to establish NATE certified installation and service NATE continues its commitment to helping advance the as critical components of the sustainability equation. collective efforts of a united HVACR industry—to do all we can to promote our industry and NATE Certification from a value-added standpoint. Contractors and technicians alike need to believe unequivocally in the financial benefits of investing in certification—that NATE certifications are rungs on the ladder of their financial success. And equivalently, we all need to demonstrate through public and industry awareness campaigns that our industry is fully supportive of its NATE certified technicians and market their significance as the “elite” of their profession from the standpoint of reliability and competence. As our industry continues to evolve and grow, NATE will strive to continuously increase the value quotient of certification to all sectors of the HVACR industry, governmental agencies, and the consuming public. Tat is NATE’s challenge, and ultimately that is NATE’s mission.

Peter W. Schwartz is president and CEO of NATE. Visit NATE on the web at www.natex.org. AHRI trends | Fall 2011

28 ground-breaking features to ComfortLink name, features ground-breaking Trane distributor visit or Trane.com all to learn the Trane about ComfortLink Electronics Show. the amazing at Innovations Consumer called And to be enough aTrane. honoree Talk to your local by Popular MechanicsProducts to athoroughly amazing, level. new only not Amazing named to enough of be one 2010’s Transformative Most Introducing an innovation that’s much as arevolution it as is an evolution, the Trane ComfortLink RELIABLE, ENERGY-EFFICIENT, CLEANAIR FOR THEHOME.

If you’re in the HVAC the you industry, make a thermostat. When you lead When Magazine, an but also Innovations 2011 of and Engineering Best Design Awards ™ II is an advanced command center that takes comfort and control and control II comfort command center that is antakes advanced the HVAC the you industry, reinvent it. ™ II. trane.com ™ II. With many too