Air conditioning engineering looks set to be one of the many areas of the HVAC industry to benefit from an increase in the use of new technologies as companies recognise the benefits of a digital future.

Technological innovation has been changing the way we work since the days of the Industrial Revolution, and in this digital age there are more opportunities than ever to help people do their jobs more efficiently, accurately and profitably.

Advances in digital technology are enabling the production and storage of a building’s data, and this is sure to have an effect on the HVAC industry as that data is used to provide greater energy efficiency and a more holistic approach to a building’s HVAC systems. And cloud storage enables access to this data from anywhere and at any time.

So how could a digital future change air conditioning engineering? A digital approach to air conditioning engineering could simplify the maintenance process, improve standards and accuracy, and make troubleshooting easier. For engineers, technicians and contractors, new technologies could provide a wealth of varied information about HVAC units, systems and products, meaning they’ll be able to carry out their work more efficiently, more accurately and to higher standards.

At the touch of a button, engineers will be able to see the service history of a unit or system. They’ll also gain an overview of a unit’s operation and its application within a wider system, and be able to compare and analyse data, allowing them to spot any patterns or ongoing issues that are occurring.

In addition, they’ll be able to access product information, to see which parts are needed and if those parts are in stock, and order them or a relevant substitute.

Ultimately, this will all lead to an improved customer experience as digital advances help HVAC engineers provide a more efficient, accurate and faster service. And the consumer may also be able to use some of these technologies themselves, with innovative mobile apps, for example, enabling them to find engineers in their vicinity, and book them to attend to an issue.