Innovative HVAC Technologies: What Chicagoland Residents Can Expect in 2025
Chicago ranks 11th when it comes to summertime AC usage. Almost 38% of the population lives in a home with AC. The average usage of those AC systems is nearing 61 days. That’s average. This summer’s been unusual no matter where you are.
The city’s urban heat island index is at 8.71 degrees. That means that the average temperature in the city is almost 9 degrees hotter than it is in less populated areas with more open green space. For people in Chicago’s urban area, cooling costs have risen by around 10% this summer. In June, Climate Central reported heat index values of up to 105 degrees in many states, including Illinois with nightly lows staying into the 70s, too. AC becomes essential.
That’s just the summer. Chicago can also get extremely cold in the winter, so you need an HVAC system that’s ready to handle both extremes. If you find your HVAC system is nearing its end of life, it’s a good time to consider what technology and improvements are expected on systems installed in 2025. There are a few big changes or continuing options that will help you save money and ensure your system is as efficient as possible.
Tax Credits for Energy-Efficient Improvements
Any energy-efficient improvements you make to your home after January 1, 2023, qualify you for a tax credit of as much as $3,200. The credit covers 30% of your installation and purchase costs and was extended until 2030. Of that tax credit, $2,000 is for efficient biomass boilers and heat pumps. The other $1,200 is good on things like new energy-efficient doors and windows and insulation that makes your home airtight.
In addition to tax credits, ComEd offers discounts of up to $1,000 on ductless mini-split heat pumps and $1,400 for centrally ducted mini-splits. Illinois ENERGY STAR® appliance rebates provide cashback on installations of qualifying central AC, air-source heat pumps, propane boilers, and gas furnaces and boilers. There are also cashback rebates on many qualifying water heaters.
The Integration of AI
AI is being added to newer HVAC systems. One of the largest benefits is that systems can diagnose potential issues before they arrive. Plus, technicians can get reports of what’s wrong and know what’s needed to repair or restore a system to like-new condition before they leave the office. It makes it easier to ensure the correct parts and tools are on the truck before they leave.
This technology can study weather patterns and forecasts at your exact address and set the thermostat automatically. It can track how many people are in your home and how many leave throughout the day. With AI analyzing this information, it knows the best temperature for optimizing performance while reducing energy costs. AI takes over adjusting your thermostat to ensure efficiency.
With the integration of AI, homeowners also have real-time information on how their HVAC system is performing. You’ll get prompt notifications when something needs tending to, such as cleaning the coils or changing the filter, and when to schedule maintenance.
Consider Alternative Energy for Powering a New HVAC System
In the past two decades, rooftop solar panels have been easier to get. While they’re a helpful way of powering your HVAC system, advancements are happening all of the time. One of them is Tesla’s new solar tiles that look like standard roofing, but they are harnessing solar power to use in your home. They have a 25-year warranty, so they’re a good investment if you’re looking for another way to power your new AC and heating system.
Alternatives to Refrigerants
AC systems use refrigerants to draw heat from the air in your home and carry it outside where the coolant is transformed and releases that heat. This happens in the compressor, which packs coolant molecules together to convert it from a gas back into a liquid. In that transformation, the heat releases and is blown from the outside AC unit by fans.
The liquid coolant circulates through the indoor AC component to collect heat being brought to the component through the ducts. As it does this, the coolant releases cooler air that is then drawn into the ducts by a fan. This repeats the cycle of capturing heat, releasing the heat outside, and creating cooler air inside.
The problem with this age-old setup is that coolant is a pollutant. The refrigerant chemicals have to be carefully handled, and if there’s a leak, it has to be addressed quickly and by a trained professional to minimize environmental impact. Several changes to the types of coolant have been made in the past decade, and another takes place in 2025.
Effective January 1, 2025, all manufacturers of air conditioners and heat pumps must use new refrigerants known as A2Ls. HVAC equipment manufactured before the deadline must be installed within a year if it’s a central AC or mini-split system or three years for window air conditioners.
Other systems are being studied and tested. One uses desiccants like silica gel to draw moisture from the room. Once the desiccant has absorbed as much moisture as it can hold, it has to be heated to dry it back out though, which can increase power usage. A Massachusetts startup is working on a method that uses the heat produced while cooling a room to dry the desiccant out.
Another option has been in the works for close to a decade. It’s similar to the above, only salt water creates a liquid desiccant that draws heat from the room. That heat is released as a water vapor outside. The problem is that in humid climates, which Chicago is known to have in the summer, the release of heat may not be as efficient. These AC systems are also bigger than normal, so a flat rooftop is best, making them more effective for businesses and schools.
Keep Your System in Excellent Condition
Even with a new energy-efficient HVAC system, you need to do your part. Make sure your system stays in the best possible condition by arranging yearly cleanings and inspections, changing your air filter regularly, and paying attention to unusual noises that can be a sign of something about to go wrong.
Is it time for a new HVAC system? Air Blue Heating and Cooling, Inc. offers HVAC systems installations in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Get a $150 discount when you have a new furnace or AC system installed. You can have a new AC and furnace system for as little as $125 per month, so it’s more affordable than you might expect.
Whether you need a new AC system or want to ensure yours is working as efficiently as possible, Air Blue offers installation services, AC repairs, and routine maintenance. We’ve been in this field for more than 30 years and work on HVAC systems of all makes and models. Reach us online to schedule an appointment or learn more.
