New York officials recently announced the state and the city will invest $70 million to roll out 30,000 window-sized electric heat pumps in city-owned apartments.
This action follows a program initiated last year by city and state officials that invited manufacturers to develop new electrified technology to improve living conditions and begin to decarbonize public housing. Gradient, and appliance maker Midea America, were each awarded contracts to develop and produce devices for the New York City Housing Authority.
Gradient has created a heat pump unit that hangs from window sills and can be installed using hand tools. It plugs into a standard 120-volt wall outlet.
The equipment uses R32, a new refrigerant that efficiently carries heat with a significantly lower environmental impact than standard refrigerants. Leaders in other cities, including Jersey City, Boston, and Seattle, have said they are monitoring the project’s progress.
Related Stories
Multifamily Housing | Jun 20, 2017
Coliving apartments look to fill affordability and availability gaps for urban workers
One provider, Common, emphasizes community in its buildings.
Market Data | Jun 16, 2017
Residential construction was strong, but not enough, in 2016
The Joint Center for Housing Studies’ latest report expects minorities and millennials to account for the lion’s share of household formations through 2035.
Multifamily Housing | Jun 7, 2017
Jersey Strong: Local suppliers step in to help renovate a homeless shelter in the Garden State
American Standard and Philips Lighting donate products and manpower.
Resiliency | Jun 7, 2017
New disaster-resilient infrastructure building and upgrades hope to keep Haven Plaza up and running
The affordable housing complex was hit hard during Hurricane Sandy, leaving residents without electricity or water.
Multifamily Housing | Jun 7, 2017
Multifamily visionary: The life and work of architect David Baker
For 35 years, architect David Baker has been a spirited voice for affordable housing, in San Francisco and beyond.
Wood | Jun 6, 2017
Shigeru Ban-designed residential structure poised to become world’s tallest hybrid timber building
The wood, concrete, and glass building will rise approximately 233 feet when finished.
Multifamily Housing | May 25, 2017
Luxury residential tower is newest planned addition to The Star in Frisco
The building will be within walking distance to the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters.
Multifamily Housing | May 22, 2017
Zaha Hadid Architects residential development takes a page from a classic Bradbury tale
The buildings are on an elevated platform and the surrounding walkways are suspended so as not to disturb the surrounding ecosystems.
Multifamily Housing | May 19, 2017
Above + Beyond: condo tower built atop parking structure
How designers figured out a way to nestle an 18-story condo tower on top of an existing parking structure in Hawaii.
