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About Us
Build Equinox takes pride in the fact that 100% of the energy powering the Urbana, Illinois headquarters comes from solar panels installed by the employees themselves. Power is provided through a 3.2kW two-axis PV tracker along with a fixed 5.5kW PV system, for approximately 11,500 kWh of energy production.
Our further commitment to sustainability shows in the careful selection of materials used in the CERV, from the recyclable unpainted aluminum housing to the low GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant. Breathe easy knowing that the CERV and Build Equinox are doing their part to build a better, more sustainable future.
The Build Equinox Team
Ben Newell
President
Ty Newell, Ph.D
Vice President
Alex Long
Vice President
Victor Nino, Ph.D
Director of Business Development
Our History
Newell Instruments Founded
Founded by Professor Ty Newell, Newell Instruments got its start from unique technologies developed in partnership with the University of Illinois.
Fluid Concentration Sensor
Newell Instruments creates the first in-situ sensor for measuring lubricants in refrigeration systems, machine cutting fluid concentration, etc.
Heat Transfer Analysis
Newell Instruments develops specialized heat transfer analysis tools for refrigeration piping, heat exchangers, and refrigerant systems.
Appliance Innovation & Analysis
Newell Instruments works closely with large appliance manufacturers to analyze and develop innovative new features, while improving efficiency and functionality
JO3C Air Conditioner
Newell Instruments assists in the development of a ruggedized military aircraft cooling system, capable of operating from -40F to 140F.
CERV Development & Testing begins
Seeing a need for smart ventilation in new, high performance homes, the concept for the CERV is born. Great effort was being put into designing a home with minimal energy usage, with a lack of emphasis on indoor air quality. We intend to fix that!
CERV Concept Unveiled at North American Passive House Conference
The CERV is the first residential ventilation system to use a heat pump for energy exchange, and integrated high quality CO2 and VOC sensors to monitor and control indoor air quality.
3.2kW Two-Axis PV Tracker
As the first step to becoming a 100% solar powered business, a 3.2kW two-axis PV tracker is installed at Newell Instruments headquarters.
Equinox House Under Construction
Equinox House is meant to prove that you can truly have it all. The home is 100% solar powered, features rainwater collection for use in toilets and laundry, and will implement the smartest ventilation system in the world - the CERV!
Newell Instruments Becomes Build Equinox
In a major pivot from our engineering consulting work, we go all in! Build Equinox is founded on the mantra of "Healthy, Comfortable, and Sustainable Technologies".
CERV Alpha Unit Installed in Equinox House
After years of testing and development, the CERV is ready to be put to work. A pre-production model of the CERV is installed in Equinox House, providing air quality monitoring and control, filtration, and supplemental heating and cooling.
CERV Receives UL Approval
After undergoing months of intensive safety testing, the CERV is finally UL approved for use in the United States and Canada!
First Production CERV Installed in Denver, CO
The owners of the first Certified Passive House in Denver know that healthy indoor air quality is a top priority, and they're first in line to get a CERV!
5.5kW Fixed PV System Installed
Build Equinox becomes fully solar powered! Nicknamed "Sundial", the new 5.5kW system brings Build Equinox's yearly solar energy production to 11,500kWh.
CERV2 Development & Testing begins
After several years of positive feedback from the CERV, Build Equinox gets to work on the second generation CERV. The CERV2 keeps the same great functionality as the 1st generation CERV, but improves the ease of installation and expands functionality to make the CERV smarter than ever!
CERV2 Recieves UL Approval
The CERV2 is ready for deployment, now that it has the proper safety certifications.
First Production CERV2 Installed in Urbana, IL
A complete renovation in our hometown of Urbana is a great location for the first production CERV2! The owners of the home have severe allergies, and the CERV2 is installed to help manage air quality and provide superior air filtration.
CERV2 Named One of the Coolest Things Made in Illinois
From a pool of over 260 products, the CERV2 is voted into the top 16 coolest Products made in Illinois!
CERV-UV Released
CERV2 Becomes the First Residential ERV System with Integrated Ultraviolet Air Sanitation to help combat the spread of COVID19.
CERV-1000 Development Begins
After extensive classroom IAQ and comfort monitoring, Build Equinox begins development of an all-in-one solution for Air Quality, Heating, and Cooling
CERV-1000 Released
With 3 tons of low-ambient heating and cooling, plus up to 1000 CFM of fresh air ventilation, the CERV-1000 begins transforming classrooms into healthy, comfortable learning environments!
