Technology Tuesdays: The Best of Two Worlds - Attractive and Energy Efficient Window HVAC

Hello Partners!

It appears window air conditioners (AC) are getting a makeover! Window ACs have been a necessity for spaces that do not have central AC for some time now. However, there are some drawbacks. Likely, the biggest drawback on most people’s lists are that window ACs are not attractive. In fact, some are downright ugly. They are boxy, bulky units that make a lot of noise. Secondly, although they are considered more energy efficient than a lot of other options out there, recent innovations have proven they can be even more energy efficient and, you guessed it, easier on the eyes.

A new product designed by a company called Gradient, addresses the primary grievances people have with window AC units. For example, the unit is designed so that the noisiest components rest outside of the window reducing the amount of noise inside the home. Additionally, these units use the refrigerant that has the least impact on the environment currently available on the market. These units are also sleeker and more low-profile, so they do not block the view out the window as with other window AC units.

These units can also heat AND cool and when they are used for both functions, they can reduce the carbon footprint of HVAC in each home by as much as 75%! One way they are able to accomplish this is by incorporating a variable speed drive. Most window AC units have one of two settings: on and off. However, this particular unit is Wi-Fi enabled so it has the ability to throttle its load to respond to demand events as well as varying weather conditions.

We are really excited to see this type of innovation coming to market. Particularly because air conditioning use will only increase as more people around the world are gaining the ability to afford it and as the planet grows hotter. Air conditioning is necessary for public health so, getting rid of it is not an option. This particular unit is expected to be commercially available sometime in 2022.