Mini Splits, Heatwaves, and the Flair Puck

Heatwaves are occurring more frequently, for longer periods of time, and are more intense than in the past. Each of these heat events brings new challenges to the electric grid: as temperatures rise, so does air-conditioning use. Places that previously did not require air conditioning for summer cooling, such as the Pacific Northwest, are now seeing homeowners buy and use AC units, taxing the grid even further.

Could there be a solution?

The ductless air-source heat pump, commonly known as a mini split, offers both heating and cooling for residential use. Installation is simple and requires no major renovations—it’s a perfect solution for older homes that can’t be renovated with new ductwork. And best of all? Its energy efficiency means it won’t tax the grid in the same ways that a traditional AC does.

But a mini split isn’t enough.

The Flair Puck is a smart thermostat for mini splits. Its automation and advanced technology bring a new dimension of energy efficiency to home HVAC. Smart functionality, like scheduling, Smart Away (geofencing), and Room Sense, increases efficiency and maximizes savings for homeowners.

Flair can even improve the grid! After working with energy leaders like Portland General Electric, Mass Save, NYSERDA, and others, we’ve developed a suite of tools that address Demand Response, Secondary Heating (Duel Fuel switchover), and more.

Flair’s efforts in decarbonization have been recognized by industry leaders like Third Derivative (The Rocky Mountain Institute and New Energy Nexus), Google for Startups: Climate Change, and the World Bank (International Finance Corporation). The Puck was named the winner for mini split controls by Lighting and Homes for Tomorrow, and is a finalist in the demand-side category at the Start Up Energy Transition.

What are you waiting for?
If you or your organization is ready for the future of electrification, sign up in our Pros Portal to learn more.