What Is an HVAC Monitoring System?
What Is an HVAC Monitoring System?
HVAC issues are among the top tenet complaints for multifamily properties, offices, and most shared spaces. One way to avoid these issues is with an HVAC monitoring system. HVAC monitoring systems, also known as HVAC control systems, continually track energy consumption and the performance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. Their main purpose is to alert the HVAC operator of faults and inefficiencies in real-time, enabling facility managers to take action.
Why HVAC Monitoring Systems Matter
HVAC energy monitoring systems are vital tools for identifying problems early on. In addition to daily, weekly, and monthly data, operators can create custom alerts when specific metrics reach certain levels. Without the data from these systems, issues with HVAC equipment may go undetected for weeks.
By installing an HVAC monitoring platform that tracks the entire HVAC system, including chillers, exhaust fans, motors, and other parts, issues can be found and fixed immediately. Monitoring data and analytics can also provide predictive measurements to counter potential issues and make minor adjustments instead of major repairs.
Benefits of HVAC Control Systems
The most obvious benefit of an HVAC control system is providing building occupants with a comfortable environment. By properly combining input data and data from Direct Digital Controls (DDCs) it becomes possible to eliminate hot/cold spots throughout the building.
Typically, HVAC operation accounts for roughly a third of commercial facility energy consumption. By applying control systems, you can strategically reduce energy consumption and reduce overall energy costs and effects on the environment.
Another overlooked benefit of HVAC monitoring systems is the increased control over air quality monitoring. The ability to control indoor air quality improves the operators’ ability to keep occupants healthy and comfortable.
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Residential vs. Commercial HVAC Monitoring Systems
There are a few differences between the commercial and home applications of HVAC monitoring systems. Due to the climate-controlled areas in a commercial setting, those control systems tend to be more complex, consisting of many different sensors that all link back to a single control unit.
Commercial HVAC monitoring systems are designed for large facilities where they need to work efficiently and evenly across substantial square footage. The HVAC equipment is often controlled by building automation systems (BAS) that can include HVAC, and other energy systems like lighting, fire alarms, and access/security systems.
Residential HVAC monitoring systems are less complex. Many homeowners rely on a smart thermostat to send email or text alerts on HVAC usage levels, and unexpected changes in temperature or humidity and automatically adjust settings based on their household habits.
Types of Commercial HVAC Controls
Most buildings constructed or remodeled in the last 10 to 20 years use a type of HVAC control system known as Direct Digital Controls (DDC). DDCs communicate via electronic signals and display information to a digital display. This degree allows for real-time data and connectivity to a facility’s HVAC system from anywhere with an internet connection.
If the building is older than 20 years, the type of HVAC system could be a pneumatic HVAC control. These antiquated systems operate on air pressure and use specialized mechanisms to perform control functions.
Home HVAC Monitoring Systems
Residential HVAC monitoring systems usually consist of a thermostat that is connected to a self-contained A/C unit. In this kind of application, the HVAC monitoring system functions as the control and the sensor. For example, when you set your thermostat to 75 degrees in the summer, you are dictating that you’re A/C unit should run until your indoor temperature reaches 75, and once it does, it will shut off.
Take Control of Your Energy Use with Professional HVAC Services
If you are looking to install a new HVAC monitoring system or update an old one, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Our professional team has years of experience helping individuals and facility managers optimize their HVAC systems for real-time energy monitoring and cost savings. Call us at (800) 893-3523 or request an appointment online.