HVAC Factor Column

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



dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS)

IAQ And Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems

To deliver on ventilation and energy efficiency conditions, facility managers may consider DOAS units for their buildings.
Prescriptive HVAC

Prescriptive HVAC: Diagnose, Then Treat

To protect against transmission of COVID-19 and other threats, plan the steps to increase building ventilation and improve filtration.
propane HVAC

A Look At Propane For HVAC Systems

As an energy source, propane offers facilities efficient, low-cost equipment operation that can help to lower overall carbon footprint.
HVAC

HVAC Systems And Reopening Buildings Amid COVID-19

Examine your facility's HVAC systems with airflow, filtration, and humidity conditions at the forefront.
propane

Propane For Heating And Cooling

HVAC systems powered by propane offer flexibility for facilities in far-flung locations, among other potential benefits.
indoor air quality

Paths To Improved Indoor Air Quality

For facility management, here’s the 4-1-1 on MERV ratings and supplemental filtration strategies.
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.
Energy Incentives Webinar, Power Grid

Learn How To Capture Energy Incentives And Strengthen The Power Grid

Join us for this free webinar and learn how to to open new revenue streams, reduce energy costs, and advance sustainability goals at your facility with virtually no disruption to productivity.
facility resilience

Watch This: The Role Of Facilities Management In Handling Emergencies And Maintenance

This video webinar provides actionable strategies to safeguard your assets, protect lives, and ensure operational continuity.

[VIDEO] Job Order Contracting: Accelerating the Projects that Matter

This proven single-solicitation process accelerates project delivery while satisfying local bidding requirements. Learn all about Gordian’s JOC solutions .

Infrastructure Upgrades For Energy And Labor Savings: Scaling For Growth

How Arway Linen and Uniform is reducing water and energy consumption by 51%.