APR Supply Co. Editorials- The Evolving Landscape

How Smartphone Technology is Impacting the HVAC and Plumbing Sectors

By- Justin Snyder

For most American consumers, the smartphone has become a constant companion. And let’s face it, for most contractors, it could be considered among the most essential tools of the trade and one that could lead them lost, or borderline helpless without.

The world of technology has witnessed unprecedented growth over the years, revolutionizing numerous industries. Among those experiencing significant transformations are the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and plumbing sectors.

Particularly, the smartphone has revolutionized these fields. From enhanced efficiency to improved diagnostics and control, exciting developments are reshaping the HVAC and plumbing industries at this very moment.

“This is the way of the future and it’s the current too,” said Ken Kramer, APR Supply Co. TSA Coordinator. “If you’re not on board, you better get on it as this is the way our field and world is moving. The smartphone is changing the way we do things for the better.”

In our Volume 1 APR Supply Co. Editorial, we mentioned the evolution of the thermostat. The advent of smart thermostats has been a game-changer in the HVAC sector. These intelligent devices allow homeowners and building managers to remotely control and monitor temperature settings, optimizing energy consumption.

Specific to customers, smartphone integration enables one to adjust settings from anywhere, creating a more comfortable environment while minimizing energy consumption. Additionally, smart thermostats often incorporate learning algorithms that adapt to user preferences, maximizing efficiency.

“With some of these new thermostats, you can download your settings and create a template essentially where you can program them in a matter of minutes,” said Kramer. “The smartphone not only saves time, but as contractors it makes it so much easier to meet your customers’ needs.”

When it comes to contractors, the integration of smartphone technology has paved the way for remote monitoring and diagnostics in HVAC and plumbing systems. With the help of sensors and internet connectivity, you, as technicians, can now remotely assess system performance, identify potential issues, and proactively address them. Real-time data transmitted to smartphones facilitates rapid troubleshooting, reducing downtime and the need for on-site visits. This technology is particularly advantageous for commercial properties and large-scale installations.

Capitalizing on this technology, we at APR Supply Co. will soon be integrating a program as part of our technical support for contractors that will allow our tech support advisors to provide guidance from their smartphone. Continuing with our promise to support the contractors that support us, we can now be quicker and more efficient with our service, as we further embrace modern technology to assist our customers.

“We just signed on recently for an app called Blitzz. It’s basically a facetime call, but it’s going to allow us to really dive into customer’s equipment and get an up close and personal look at their problems,” said Kramer. “Whereas we may have had to get in the car and drive two or three hours to a jobsite to figure out an issue, this is going to save so much time and really make things easier and more productive for people.”

Another piece of technology becoming prevalent in the HVAC and plumbing sectors is the use of Augmented Reality for maintenance and repairs. Like the virtual reality headsets atop every child’s Christmas list the past few years, this unique technology is taking the contractor world by storm. Whereas in virtual reality, the users’ perception of reality is completely based on virtual information, in augmented reality the user is provided with additional computer-generated information based on real-life data that enhances their perception of reality.

By overlaying digital information onto the real world, AR apps and devices assist technicians in performing complex tasks with precision. Technicians equipped with AR-enabled smartphones or smart glasses can visualize system components, access manuals, and view step-by-step instructions, reducing errors and enhancing productivity. AR technology simplifies maintenance and repairs, resulting in faster turnaround times and increased customer satisfaction.

Smart technology has also taken the plumbing fixture industry by storm. Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed regular fixtures throughout the home into intelligent devices. IoT is the central figure of all smart technology, which shares data about themselves, their users, their environments, and other devices that connect to it. This data provides valuable insights that allow businesses to maximize energy savings, optimize space, and improve wellbeing and productivity in the workplace.

Faucets, toilets, and shower systems equipped with sensors and wireless connectivity offer a host of benefits. Smartphone integration lets users control water temperature, flow, and duration, promoting water conservation and reducing utility bills. Additionally, IoT-enabled fixtures can detect leaks, monitor water usage patterns, and send alerts to smartphones, helping to prevent costly water damage and promoting sustainable practices.

“The energy savings with equipment like this really is going to do wonders for consumers in terms of putting money back into their pockets,” said Kramer. “I don’t know any person who doesn’t want to save a few dollars, and to know you’re helping the environment as well is an added plus.”

Lastly, smartphones have introduced many digital solutions that streamline workflow management. Traditionally paperwork and manual documentation have been crucial to the HVAC and plumbing industries. However, mobile apps and cloud-based platforms now facilitate seamless communication between technicians, office staff, and clients. Work orders, service records, and invoices can be generated and accessed on smartphones, eliminating the need for physical paperwork. This digital transformation reduces administrative burdens, enhances record-keeping accuracy, and increases overall operational efficiency.

“It used to be that you’d walk into a house, or our stores, and you’d have to look through 800-page manuals and you’d spend a lot of time just finding information,” said Kramer. “Now we have manuals right at our fingertips. Throw in the fact that as a contractor you can bill, invoice, and create workorders with the click of a few buttons, the time you’re saving is undeniable.”

In conclusion, the growth of technology, particularly smartphone technology, has ushered in a new era for the HVAC and plumbing sectors. From smart thermostats and remote monitoring to augmented reality and IoT-enabled fixtures, these advancements have enhanced efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations and integrations that will shape the future of these industries. Embracing these advancements will not only lead to better business outcomes but also contribute to sustainability and environmental conservation. The journey towards a smarter, more connected world is well underway, and the HVAC and plumbing sectors are undoubtedly at the forefront of this transformative wave.