How IoT Tools Ensure Cost and Energy Savings in HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems tend to consume a significant portion of electricity in any office or residence.

The use of ACs and electric fans make up nearly 20% of the total power consumption in buildings globally, according to an International Energy Agency report.

Given this need to reduce energy usage and carbon footprint, digital technologies, led by internet of things or IoT, have started transforming the HVAC industry.

Remote Diagnostics and Predictive Maintenance

A smart HVAC system with IoT uses sensors to continuously monitor and collect data on the system’s condition and functionality.

It also tracks temperature settings, energy consumption, cooling cycles, condensation level and shares the data with system managers, engineers, and technicians.

These robust data sets help the technicians execute diagnostic and predictive maintenance checks to prolong the life of the HVAC system.

This helps prevent breakdowns during business hours and also saves the added expense on manpower, with customers receiving the benefit of savings on the contractor’s cost.

Increased Power Savings Through Sensors

Smart HVAC systems control the amount of conditioned air running through the building. These smart controls help optimize carbon dioxide levels, temperature, humidity, and modulate the amount of airflow in an area without starving or over-ventilating the other areas.

Occupancy sensors are a good example of how cross-system improvement can benefit HVAC systems. The sensors help save power and improve efficiency of the system by reducing the heat load for an area. The sensors also improve indoor air quality.

More Adaptability, Controllability and Comfort

Smart HVAC systems offer significantly superior levels of control. Data gathered from the building and the system helps the smart thermostat to be remotely programmed with a weekly temperature schedule.

Sensors can measure the internal data such as temperature, humidity, and airflow throughout an entire building and combine it with external factors such as the weather forecasts and current utility rates.

This can be helpful in determining the optimal settings for performance and comfort and regulate the temperature-sensitive materials.

What Category Managers Can Gain

Category managers in procurement should consider the purchase of smart assets and invest in smart infrastructure to reap maximum benefits. These include cost savings, reduction of CO₂ emissions, and lesser downtime due to preventive maintenance and real-time diagnostics, leading to higher savings and profits.

Sources and References:

• https://www.techtimes.com/articles/247915/20200310/overcoming-challenges-in-hvac-through-internet-of-things.htm
• https://www.pumpsandsystems.com/hvac-industry-prepared-these-trends
• https://www.buildings.com/articles/27400/3-trends-hvacr-ahr-expo-2020