Articles by Nick Kostora

Across the country, manufacturers and contractors are coming together to find zoning solutions that increase efficiency and comfort for consumers. The following zoning projects provide a telling showcase for zoning and the benefits it can provide within the HVAC marketplace.

Thermostats and controls are at the forefront of the connected home charge, and homeowners or facility managers may now control the climates within individual rooms from a million miles away, courtesy of their mobile devices.

For many seasoned HVAC contractors, the initial sales pitch when selling zoning to consumers can be as simple as a quick question-and-answer session. The unfortunate reality for zoning, however, remains that, for now, it’s still a relatively niche aspect of the HVAC industry as zoning is installed on less than 3 percent of HVAC systems. 

The conference featured a bevy of presentations, including award ceremonies, breakout lessons, general sessions, and a product exhibition with more than 70 showcasing companies. Educator credentialing exams were provided on-site as part of the conference, as was a class on programmatic accreditation.

The so-called shoulder season is often a difficult time for HVAC contractors. The waning weeks of March and the first days of April, as well as parts of fall, often result in slow business for contractors as consumers don’t have to deal with the immediate repairs and replacements brought on by extreme cold or scorching heat.

Measuring supply plenum temperature is a process that can become second nature to experienced HVAC contractors, but, for those first attempting or learning the trade, the action offers many pratfalls and potential obstacles.

Scholarship opportunities have a particular importance in the realm of HVAC, especially today, when qualified, skilled work is becoming very hard to find.

As geothermal continues to grow in popularity, it’s important for contractors to be properly trained in geothermal installations and functionality.

Zero-net-energy (ZNE) projects are becoming an increasingly popular way to save energy and showcase the green movement away from fossil fuels and carbon emissions.

The tax credit — commonly referred to as 25D — offers consumers up to 30 percent on the installation of wind power, solar electric and water, and fuel cell technologies.