HVAC Training Helps Pros Fight Global Warming

Move over, Al Gore. There’s a new global warming crime fighter in town. They may not have Nobel Peace Prizes, but they do wield enormous control over the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems that contribute to our current climate conditions. Known collectively as HVAC, they are responsible for installing the climate control systems in homes and offices, and therefore have a huge stake in inserting green practices that influence our climate conditions. Here are a few ways HVAC-ers can use green practices at work.

ENERGY STAR: A HVAC-ers Best Friend

It’s ENERGY STAR – Energy Star is a government-backed program that encourages the use of energy-efficient products.

When HVAC’ers use an ENERGY STAR-qualified furnace, for example, they select a product that is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. This means decreased energy use and lower energy bills. HVAC technicians can help reduce energy consumption by promoting energy-efficient equipment or showing customers how to properly maintain their current systems.

HVAC Technicians and the War on CFCs

Remember all that talk about the Ozone Layer, CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), and the ozone hole over the Antarctic? Years ago, CFCs were used in heating and cooling systems until scientists realized they were destroying the atmosphere. Because of this, George H. W. Bush endorsed the ban of CFC production in the early nineties.

While the banning of CFCs for HVAC practices went a long way toward fighting global warming, there is still work to be done. While new HVAC equipment doesn’t use CFCs, there are still dated units that do.

HVAC technicians can reduce greenhouse emissions by making the old systems compliant with current regulations. There is an immense need for this type of training and any reputable HVAC training program should include it in the curriculum.

The Big, Green HVAC Training Machine

It’s big, it’s green, and it’s got a real problem with global warming. No, it’s not the Hulk or the Jolly Green Giant – it’s the HVAC Mobile Green Classroom! This state-of-the-art trailer travels around the country with an important mission: to demonstrate the latest green technology.

The Mobile Green Classroom is the brainchild of the Partnership for Environmental Leadership – a collaboration of building organizations and contractors dedicated to the cause.

At these events, visitors will get a sneak peek at new fuel cell technology, solar and geothermal systems, heat pumps, and other eco-friendly equipment. HVAC technicians can check out the HVAC Mobile Green Classroom’s schedule of events here.

By now, most people realize the environment is in great danger. But you don’t have to be a soy-latte-drinking, bicycle-riding yuppie to help the environment. HVAC technicians have a unique opportunity to turn things around by promoting energy-efficient systems, upgrading old systems, and keeping up with the latest technology. Inserting green practices into the widespread heating and cooling industry will go a long way towards a more energy-efficient environment. Oh, and don’t forget to buy a Toyota Prius while you’re at it!

HVAC Training and Programs | HVAC Training Helps Pros Fight Global Warming