In a previous blog posts, we introduced the Harvest Thermal system which is a smart energy management system that is used in line with an air to water heat pump and tied in with the home’s air handler unit (AHU), with all controls contained in what Harvest calls a “pod”. Starting next month, Harvest is rolling out an exciting upgrade to its already impressive Harvest pod system. This will be known as Harvest Open, and now homeowners will gain even more flexibility and compatibility in choosing their heating solutions. Harvest pods now seamlessly integrate with most heat pumps using a 24-volt control interface, a much-requested configuration. Dubbed Harvest Open, this allows homeowners to select the reversible (DX) heat pump and air handler that perfectly fit their needs, while still allowing the Harvest system to maintain control over energy use, thermal storage, and delivery.

A Closer Look at Harvest Open

We’ve covered how Harvest’s system works in previous posts which you can find at the bottom of this blog post, but a recap never hurts. The system consists of two parts, a mechanical and an electrical controller. The electronic controller, the brains of the system, is able to take information from many different sensors and input sources via internet connectivity. This allows the smart controller to schedule on/off times for the heat pump and hydronic system.

The other part of the pod is the mechanical controls and is what allows the different equipment to interface and be controlled by the brain of the system. The mechanicals consist of many different sensors, pumps, and valves. These are all factory assembled and tested, meaning only the proper connections need to be made during installation. Interfacing and controlling the system in this way allows the storage tank to be used as a thermal battery, storing, and releasing heat throughout the day, and balancing the usage and production needs with grid load and peak usage times, saving money and strain on the grid.

The core elements of Harvest’s smart thermal battery and management system remain unchanged but Harvest Open brings a new level of customization to the table. No longer bound to only using a SanCO2 heat pump, homeowners and builders now have the freedom to choose equipment they know and love, bringing seamless integration and optimal performance. You can even use it with reversible (DX) heat pumps, and the air handler of your choosing. This opens up the opportunity for use with A/C systems, further expanding the functionality of Harvest Open. If that wasn’t enough, the enhanced system now boasts the capability to deliver up to 4 tons of heating capacity, providing remarkable comfort and efficiency for your home. The inclusion of an A-frame hydronic coil means Harvest Open can still shift much of the load to off-peak hours, saving you money on your heating bills while reducing strain on the energy grid.

How Harvest Open Benefit Homeowners

Lower Installation Costs

Harvest Open brings a multitude of benefits to homeowners, starting with lower installation costs. By featuring simplified wiring, the new product streamlines the installation process, making it easier and more cost-effective for homeowners and technicians alike. Additionally, Harvest's enhanced compatibility now allows it to heat approximately 80% of homes, expanding its reach and ensuring that more households can benefit from its innovative solutions. What's more, homeowners can leverage their existing supplier relationships for the AHU and heat pump, ensuring seamless integration and familiarity with the equipment. With these enhancements, Harvest aims to create happy customers by providing improved flexibility, efficiency, and satisfaction throughout the home heating experience.

Tidier, Sleeker Look

The Enhanced Harvest Open introduces a range of updates designed to elevate the user experience. With simplified wiring and new plug and play connectors at the pod, not only installation easier, but the system looks tidier too. The pod's sleek new design, complete with a modern logo, further enhances aesthetic appeal while bidding farewell to cumbersome top connectors. Safety and reliability receive a boost with the ability to perform a hydronic coil flush in basic mode, ensuring smoother and more dependable operation. The addition of an On/Off switch provides users with greater control and ease of use, enhancing convenience and functionality.

Harvest’s Thermal Battery Means Tax (and Potentially Other) Savings

Harvest’s technology not only saves homeowners money on their utilities, its status as a thermal battery also makes the whole system, including the installation costs eligible for a 30% tax credit on their federal income tax. Some utility companies or local government agencies are also providing rebates or incentives for these types of systems, so system costs could also be reduced.

Continued Support of the Original Harvest Pod

Harvest is still committed to supporting the original pods, now dubbed Harvest Classic. These feature the Airscape AHU and SANCO2 heat pump. The Classic still offers remarkable comfort with modulated fan speed, economizer for free night cooling, and AHU-integrated cased coils. These are still one of the smartest systems on the market today, with plenty of sensors, and internet connectivity to predict energy needs based on peak load times and even upcoming weather. Rest assured that this system still offers superior comfort and resilience, even during extreme conditions like fire season.

Ready to Learn More?

Are you ready to revolutionize your home heating experience? With Harvest’s enhanced Harvest pod systems, you can enjoy unparalleled comfort, efficiency, and flexibility while reducing your carbon footprint. You can request more information by completing the Harvest Information request form on our Harvest web page.

Previous Blog Posts about Harvest (Thermal)

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