What are HVAC controls? How do they work?

Energy consumption of conventional HVAC systems and lighting is going high in buildings, especially post COVID-19. It is the reason why smart building technologies such as building automation systems are increasingly adopted. They automate processes, reduce human intervention, improve the efficiency of the HVAC systems, eliminate energy wastage, and diminish cost.

According to markets and markets recent study, the HVAC controls market size is estimated to be USD 17.2 billion in the year 2022 and is estimated to reach USD 26.7 billion by the year 2027. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% from 2022 to 2027. Now, there has been a transition to IoT-enabled HVAC systems for achieving energy efficiency goals in buildings.

What are HVAC controls?

The HVAC control system is a computerized mechanism that adjusts the heating, air conditioning, and ventilation components within a building. It can be used to turn a furnace or air conditioner on or off, or simply adjust the temperature and other settings of units. In addition to allowing building owners to control systems within a facility, an HVAC control system also maximizes performance and energy efficiency.

In larger facilities, the HVAC control is often a part of building automation or energy management system. It not only regulates heating and cooling, but also controls lighting, security systems, communication, and fire control. This system even allows building managers to open or close dampers within HVAC ducts, or adjust ventilation fans using the same computer software. Building managers get the authority to control the system while on-site or from remote locations.

The advanced HVAC control systems come with sensors that help to automatically adjust these components with minimal input from the operator. They operate just like a household thermostat and adjust the unit operation to meet pre-programmed temperature settings. Other sensors make automatic adjustments based on air quality needs or the presence of smoke, fire, or excess humidity.

Buildings equipped with HVAC control systems offer many advantages. It offers easy-to-use controls that allow building staff to maximize performance, comfort, and productivity for workers and occupants. At the same time, it improves energy efficiency and cuts heating and cooling costs that ultimately benefit the environment.

How do HVAC control systems work?

Modern HVAC control systems regulate indoor temperatures, manage humidity, improve the air quality in buildings by filtration and purification, and replenish oxygen levels, which increase occupants’ comfort and maintain a healthy environment.

In a centralized HVAC system, both warm and cool air can be routed with the same ducts and regulated by one thermostat. With larger HVAC systems and more complex equipment, there are larger and more complex sequences of operations. You need to set priority levels that determine which instructions a piece of equipment should follow. Basically, there are 3 priority levels:

1. Operator – An individual is driving the system and issues direct commands regarding how it should be running
2. Logic Programming – It means the equipment is running based on the sequence of operations
3. Weekly Schedule – The list of what days/times equipment should be on or off

In real-life applications, there are multiple levels of logic and at least some other priority levels.

Types of HVAC automation control systems

HVAC systems are classified as:

Self-contained unit packages – It describes a single unit that converts a primary energy source (electricity or gas) and provides final heating and cooling to the space to be conditioned. Rooftop HVAC systems, air conditioning units for rooms, and air-to-air heat pumps are included in it.

Central systems – These are a combination of central supply subsystems and multiple end-use subsystems. With central systems, the main conversion from fuel such as gas or electricity takes place in a central location. Some form of thermal energy is distributed throughout the building or facility.

How does IoT bring energy efficiency to HVAC systems?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a powerful technology that provides a wealth of information to users about equipment efficiency. By appropriately measuring indoor air temperature, outdoor radiant temperature, indoor and outdoor humidity, airspeed, circulation patterns, etc., it allows for optimal operation of complex HVAC systems.

The smart sensor technology attaches the HVAC system to the power of the internet. It permits facilities to export status to apps and dashboards and import data like weather forecasts and user preferences. IoT-based HVAC automation systems deliver an unbeatable level of adaptability and flexibility. It also offers:

1. Ensures sustainability by delivering maximum occupant comfort with optimal energy consumption in HVAC systems
2. Smart control of HVAC systems
3. Timely fault detection and diagnosis of HVAC systems ensuring operational efficiency at all times

Connect with Zenatix to implement IoT-based HVAC systems in your facility

IoT-based HVAC systems improve energy management in buildings. Prioritize your HVAC systems and make them more efficient with Zenatix smart IoT technology. Reach out to us today!