Circular HVAC: Is your company ready for the change that will shape the future of the HVAC sector?

Sustainability is no longer an option, but a market requirement. The circular economy is making a significant impact in all sectors, and in the HVAC sector, it is beginning to make a clear difference. The goal? To design HVAC systems that reduce waste, extend their useful life, and allow the recovery of valuable materials at the end of their lifecycle.

In this context, the concept of circular HVAC was born, a strategy that not only benefits the planet but also the companies that implement it.

What do we mean by Circular HVAC?

Circular HVAC applies the principles of the circular economy (reduce, reuse, recycle) to HVAC systems. This involves:

• Designing durable, modular, and easy-to-maintain HVAC equipment.

• Reducing the use of non-recyclable or polluting materials.

• Implementing technologies that extend the useful life of the equipment.

• Facilitate the disassembly, repair, and reuse of components.

• Optimize maintenance to avoid failures that lead to premature replacement.

The result is a more efficient, economical, and sustainable system, aligned with Europe's climate-neutral goals for 2050.

Why it's important to talk about circular HVAC in 2025

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), HVAC systems account for up to 40% of energy consumption in commercial buildings. Furthermore, it is estimated that many of these systems are replaced before reaching the end of their useful life, generating tons of technological waste and unnecessary emissions.

The new paradigm proposes changing this linear model for a more conscious and optimized one, where predictive maintenance and circular design play a leading role.

Key principles of circular HVAC

1. Modular and repairable design

Equipment designed to facilitate access to its components, allowing for quick and efficient repairs without replacing the entire system.

2. Use of recyclable and sustainable materials

From recycled plastics to low-environmental-impact refrigerant gases such as R-32 or natural refrigerants.

3. Predictive maintenance

Sensors, IoT, and analytics software make it possible to anticipate breakdowns, plan overhauls, and avoid unnecessary replacements.

4. Upgrade instead of replacement

Systems that allow the incorporation of new technologies (such as energy efficiency improvements or new controls) without disposing of the entire system.

5. Managed end-of-life

A circular system considers how each piece of equipment will be dismantled, recycled, or reused once its useful life has expired.

Real cases: How can it be applied?

At SCI, we have already begun implementing these principles with our clients:

• Energy audits to detect oversized or inefficient systems and propose scalable and more sustainable solutions.

• Intensive preventive maintenance to maximize the useful life of old equipment.

• Progressive replacement of systems with the recovery of units in good condition and proper waste management.

• Installation of aerothermal systems, which, in addition to being sustainable, allow for real-time energy efficiency monitoring.

Advantages of opting for a circular model

- Reduction of environmental impact and regulatory compliance (RITE, F-Gas, EPBD).

- Cost savings in consumption, replacements, and repairs.

- Improvement of the corporate image among employees, clients, and certifications (LEED, BREEAM).

- Preparation for upcoming regulatory and fiscal pressure.

- Real contribution to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitment.

Is it profitable to opt for circular air conditioning?

Yes. And even more so in the medium term. Companies with multiple locations (such as retail chains, offices, or logistics centers) obtain significant benefits by:

• Standardizing circular maintenance across all their locations.

• Digitizing energy control and anticipating failures.

• Investing in equipment with a longer life cycle and lower emissions.

Properly executed preventive maintenance can save up to 30% on energy costs and extend the lifespan of your equipment by 40%.

At SCI, we're here to help you achieve circular HVAC.

At SCI, we're more than maintenance professionals. We're your trusted energy advisor. We help you transform your system toward a more responsible, efficient, and long-lasting model.

• Do you have an old system? We'll tell you how to extend its life and save money.

• Do you want a circular renovation plan? We'll design and implement it for you.

• Are you looking to comply with new regulatory requirements? We'll be with you every step of the way.