One of the biggest shifts happening in AC technology is the transition towards more energy efficient and eco-friendly refrigerants. Traditionally, most ACs have used hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) like R-410A and R-134a as refrigerants. However, these have high global warming potential (GWP).

In 2024, we will see wider adoption of low GWP refrigerants such as R-32, which has only one third the GWP of R-410A. Other options like propane (R-290) and ammonia (R-717) are also gaining popularity as natural refrigerant alternatives. These will allow AC units to have a much lower carbon footprint.

2. Inverter and Dual Inverter Compressors

Inverter compressors are already quite common in inverter ACs. But we will see mainstream adoption of more advanced dual inverter compressors by 2024. 

These compressors have two independent rotors that provide more precise temperature control, faster cooling, lower noise, and up to 35% more energy savings compared to single inverter compressors.

Dual inverters can rapidly cool a room in minutes and then maintain the desired temperature quietly and efficiently. This makes them ideal for hot Indian summers. Haier India already offers this technology.

3. Improved filters for Better Indoor Air Quality

Air conditioning not only cools but also filters and circulates air inside a room. So AC units with improved filtration can have a big impact on indoor air quality – an important consideration as air pollution in Indian cities increases. We will see wider adoption of four or five stage air filtration systems in ACs by 2024. 

Higher MERV rated filters, activated carbon and plasma filters, antibacterial and antiviral filters will become more common. These will be effective at removing particulate matter, odors, fungi, bacteria and viruses from the cooled air.

Some high-end models may even add dedicated air purifiers and UV sterilization systems inside AC units to clean the air more thoroughly.

Home automation is a growing trend globally. By 2024, almost all air conditioners will offer smart connectivity via Wi-Fi and integration with home automation systems. Users will be able to control, monitor and schedule ACs remotely using smartphones. In fact Haier India already offers all these Smart Features in their Air Conditioner Models. You can explore your options on the website, some of the models are also shared in this Article. 

Voice control with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri will also become ubiquitous. This will allow controlling ACs with voice commands via smart speakers. Some models may feature built-in voice assistants.

Advanced diagnostics for preventive maintenance, failure detection and over-the-air software updates will also become common. Overall, ACs will become more intelligent devices than just cooling appliances.

5. Multi-Split and Zoned Cooling Systems

Larger spaces like offices, shops, hospitals require cooling multiple zones in a building. Multi-split ACs with a single outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units will see wider adoption. These allow cooling different rooms or zones independently based on usage or occupancy patterns, leading to greater comfort and energy savings.

Ductless mini-splits will find greater acceptance beyond residential spaces due to their flexibility, easy installation and energy efficiency. Cassette and ceiling mounted models are ideal for commercial applications. 

Improved Design and User Experience

Good design and user experience will be a key differentiation among AC brands going forward. We will see more stylish and premium designs for AC indoor units with intuitive displays and controls.

Options like auto louvers, premium remote controllers, air quality monitoring displays, ambient mood lighting, wooden finishes and more will become common as brands seek to merge form with function. Ease of use and customization options will improve.

6. Variable Speed and Zoned Outdoor Units

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems with variable speed outdoor compressors and multiple indoor evaporators connected via refrigerant piping have been around for a while. But they have been mostly limited to large commercial projects due to higher costs.

However, by 2024, we will see VRF technology become more mainstream and compact for wider adoption in mid-sized residential buildings and commercial spaces like offices, restaurants etc. This will allow far greater flexibility in zoning, energy savings and personalized comfort control.

7. Model Predictive Control and AI

Sophisticated model predictive control systems using artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive optimization of AC operations will gain wider acceptance. These can learn occupant behavior patterns and cooling needs of a building over time.

By continually monitoring indoor and outdoor conditions, these AI systems can predictively adjust cooling operations to maximize energy efficiency and maintain desired temperatures more precisely. This can generate significant cost savings, especially for large commercial buildings.

8. Focus on Health and Indoor Air Quality

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness about indoor air quality and air conditioning’s role in circulating clean air inside buildings. Future AC units will place greater emphasis on advanced air filtration, UV disinfection, positive airflow ventilation and air purifiers.

We may also see wider adoption of technologies like photocatalytic oxidation, negative ion generators, humidifiers, air quality sensors etc. in high-end models to improve health, reduce bacteria/viruses and provide cleaner, fresher indoor air.