Energy efficiency and improved performance are just two of the drivers moving the needle toward next-generation products for multifamily construction, according to a recent survey.
Multifamily builders, developers, and architects weighed in on the next-gen products they're currently installing or considering installing as part of a survey conducted by The Farnsworth Group, our data partner on the 2017 MFE Concept Community, examining usage and perceptions regarding next-gen building performance.
Almost half of the respondents said they're seeing next-gen HVAC systems being used in multifamily construction. Out of 46 responses, 13% reported installing high-efficiency HVAC systems, while 12.5% are considering making the move. Approximately 17% said they're considering installing HVAC systems with a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating of 14 or higher; 6.5% said they're currently installing those types of systems.
Over 10% of the respondents said they're installing heat pumps, while another 4.3% said they're installing variable refrigerant flow systems.
For utility management, programmable thermostats are another popular feature. Of 35 respondents, 17.1% said they're installing Nest thermostats, and 11.4% said they're using programmable thermostats. Over a quarter of the respondents said they're considering installing programmable thermostats, while 15.8% are considering Internet-connected/Wi-Fi thermostats.
Water heater selection also is leaning toward improved efficiency. Out of 37 respondents, 16.2% are installing and 43.5% are considering installing tankless water heaters, which provide hot water only as needed. Another 10.8% said they're installing energy-efficient, Energy Saver, or Energy Star water heaters.
Look for more tidbits and stats from the survey in the coming months prior to the annual Multifamily Executive Conference, which will be held Sept. 18–20 at the Bellagio in Las Vegas.
