ECM Technologies wins IFMA 2023 Facility Management Innovation award

Phoenix-based ECM Technologies, a leading innovator in HVAC efficiency and energy conservation solutions’ ThermaClear® HVAC anti-thermal degradation technology was named the winner of the 2023 International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Awards of Excellence, Facility Management Innovation Award. ECM Technologies’ Chief Revenue Officer, David Fenton, attended IFMA’s World Workplace Conference in Denver, Colo. on Sept. 29, to accept the award.  

Fenton expressed his enthusiasm for this significant recognition, stating, “Receiving the IFMA Facility Management Innovation Award is a testament to our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that address critical challenges in facility management. ThermaClear represents a paradigm shift in HVAC system efficiency and sustainability, and we are proud to see it acknowledged by industry experts. This accolade reinforces our dedication to helping commercial facilities achieve their sustainability goals while realizing substantial cost savings.” 

ECM Technologies’ industry-changing innovation addresses the pervasive issue of oil fouling that affects the majority of HVAC equipment, leading to reduced efficiency, increased energy consumption and premature equipment deterioration. ThermaClear eliminates oil obstructions, super-lubricates compressors and forms a permanent protective barrier to prevent future buildup and thermal degradation. With only one treatment required for the entire lifespan of the HVAC system and the potential to reduce operational savings by up to 20%, enhance indoor air quality and prolong the lifespan of HVAC equipment, ThermaClear stands as a key contributor to sustainable building practices and substantial operational cost savings. 

The esteemed IFMA Awards of Excellence judges commended the groundbreaking technology, stating, “ThermaClear represents a significant leap in HVAC technology. By addressing oil fouling issues in HVAC units, it enables equipment to last longer, while also easing the burden on local utilities.” 

Another judge emphasized, “While up to 10% may appear insignificant to many, it holds substantial value within HVAC systems. Optimizing HVAC systems is hard since many actions have already been done. Considering that this approach allows another 10% savings – it’s quite an impact on exiting HVAC systems. It is imperative for the government to actively promote efficiency projects and set a precedent by adopting sustainable practices, as this is crucial for our country’s journey towards sustainability.” 

To date, ECM Technologies has successfully treated over 25,000 tons of HVAC equipment, benefiting more than 10.5 million square feet of conditioned building space. Notable facilities, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Arizona State University, Transwestern Miami Tower, Phoenix Art Museum and JP Morgan Chase have all experienced the transformative impact of this technology. ThermaClear has also been used in all makes and models of major HVAC equipment, ranging from one-ton mini-splits to 2,000-ton water-cooled chillers, with average payback periods spanning from 12 to 36 months. 

IFMA’s Awards of Excellence recognize exceptional contributions to the association, outstanding examples of facility management initiative and innovative FM projects, practices and solutions. Introduced in 2016, the Facilities Management Innovation Award category honors outstanding new achievements that are cost-efficient, replicable and beyond the leading edge of standard facility management practices. The award is designed to foster creative thinking and innovative practices that will lead facility managers into the future.