Starting July 3rd, the US Department of Energy is requiring a maximum fan energy rating (FER) for furnace fans in order to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. To comply with these regulations, equipment manufacturers are moving to electronically commutated motors (ECMs) as the sole motor type used in furnace production.
This is the perfect time to show how well ECMs and bypass humidifiers perform together. To answer any questions on the subject, we’ve put together this short presentation about the different furnace motor technologies that exist and which of our humidifier models we recommend for installation with each type.
Check it out and let us know in the comments if there’s anything new you learned, or if you have any more questions. Also, take a look at our Humidifier Regional Application Guide for quick reference. It includes the updated recommendation chart seen at the end of the presentation.
Modern homes are built for maximum energy efficiency, reducing natural ventilation, and limiting the amount of dry outdoor air entering the home during the heating season. This has led to a misconception that humidifiers are unnecessary in newer homes. Research shows that without a humidifier, indoor humidity levels drop below what’s needed to maintain comfort and preserve the home. HVAC professionals play a key role in addressing this issue by recommending and installing humidifiers to ensure proper Indoor Air Quality and balanced moisture levels for customers.
MADISON, Wis. (March 25, 2024) – AprilAire, the leader in whole-house Healthy Air solutions, announces it is once again advancing its Dehumidifier lineup to be more intuitive, easy to connect, simple to use and maintain, and environmentally friendly.
Customers fuel the AprilAire passion to continually raise the bar. In 2024, AprilAire is excited to phase in the following new features and benefits to its market-leading Dehumidifier product offering:
First, and most significantly, AprilAire is upgrading the refrigerant in its Dehumidifiers to reduce by 66% the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of all the models in its lineup. The transition to R32 is underway and projected to wrap up across the full product line by year-end.
Look for this seal on AprilAire Dehumidifier packaging to indicate the product is more environmentally friendly and contains the refrigerant R32.
In addition, AprilAire continues to make its Dehumidifiers easier to use and maintain by eliminating the On/Off switch in non-hardwired models, as well as introducing a new, tool-less filter door in the E080 and E100 models.
“Customers will continue to experience the same superior product performance and reliability they have come to expect from AprilAire Dehumidifiers. By providing a more environmentally friendly product, we strengthen our brand leverage in the whole-home category and retain our position as the leader in delivering best-in-class Healthy Air solutions to dehumidify homes,” said Katie Zagorski, AprilAire Senior Product Manager, Dehumidification.
About AprilAire
AprilAire is on a mission to make homes healthy. We believe everyone deserves Healthy Air and envision a future with Healthy Air in every home. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin since 1954, AprilAire has been creating and delivering Healthy Air solutions to manage air purity, humidity, fresh air supply, temperature, and mitigate radon and viruses in all types of homes, and all environments. We have an unparalleled reputation as the brand of choice among tens of thousands of professional contractors and make a Healthy Air difference in the lives of the millions of families who rely on our products every day. To learn how to turn a house into a Healthy Home with the AprilAire Healthy Air System® visit www.aprilaire.com.
With 1 in 5 Americans suffering from asthma and allergies, Indoor Air Quality is a major concern. HVAC professionals play a key role in addressing this issue by recommending effective air filtration solutions.
Whole-Home Electronic Air Cleaners: A High-Performance Solution
Unlike standard mechanical filters, electronic air cleaners (EACs) use an electric charge to capture even the smallest airborne particles, providing superior filtration throughout the home. Installed within the HVAC system, they effectively remove allergens, dust, and other contaminants.
Why Recommend an Electronic Air Cleaner?
Higher Efficiency – EACs outperform traditional filters, especially for tiny airborne particles
Comprehensive Air Filtration – Integrated with the HVAC system, they clean air in every room
Ideal for Allergy & Asthma Sufferers – Helps reduce triggers like dust, pollen, and pet dander
While industry testing standards for EACs are still evolving, independent studies confirm their effectiveness. Offering whole-home electronic air cleaners gives contractors a high-value solution to improve IAQ and enhance customer satisfaction.
