Creating the perfect HVAC system in 2022 is a bit more complicated than it was 10 or 20 years ago. Instead of focusing solely on heating and cooling the home, installers also need to keep the building’s energy efficiency in mind. This is especially true for builders or installers working toward a LEED certification for energy efficiency.
Automation in homes and businesses is just beginning to gain momentum. What role can automation play in the HVAC industry?
Understanding Building Automation Systems (BAS)
At its most basic level, building automation systems (BAS) is a broad term for anything building owners can use to automate the systems within their facility. Anything from lighting and security to the building’s HVAC can all be tied into the automation system, essentially allowing the structure to take care of itself.
These systems sync mechanical and electrical components within the building, connecting them to digital controllers or computers. From there, the BAS engineer can run or tweak the programs that will keep the facility running smoothly.
Contrary to popular belief, digital controllers don’t need to be computers. Simple controllers can function independently of any central computer, though they may need a little bit of adjustment after installation to ensure they’re meeting all the pre-set criteria.
If, for example, the HVAC system relies on an oil furnace, like 5.7 million households do in the United States, a BAS engineer could tie an oil level sensor to a digital controller, allowing the system to automatically reorder oil when it drops below a certain predetermined level.
HVAC Automation and LEED Certification
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) idea came about accidentally after Bob Berkebile submitted a petition to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 1989. His question? What could architects do to ”’uphold the integrity of their profession but still design environmentally responsible buildings that respect the planet?’ The AIA created the U.S. Green Building Council within the next few years, and the LEED certification process was born.
Today, the push for green construction and energy efficiency isn’t a small movement it’s becoming a global necessity as we try to stave off a looming climate crisis. Traditional residential HVAC systems can generate upwards of 441 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions every year. Adding a building automation system, alongside eco-friendly HVAC options, can reduce the structure’s carbon footprint while making it easier to earn enough points to achieve a LEED certification.
Pros and Cons of Automation in HVAC
What are the positives and negatives of incorporating automation into a building’s HVAC system?
Pros
- Automated HVAC systems are more energy-efficient. Users can program them to adjust the temperature based on the time of day, on motion sensors in a given space, or even based on the temperature outside.
- Once installed, HVAC automation systems are easy to use and very user-friendly.
- These HVAC systems give building owners or managers an extra level of control by providing remote access. Anyone with access can control the HVAC system remotely without entering the building.
- HVAC automation systems also keep track of energy consumption, which helps building managers make intelligent decisions about upgrades, maintenance, repairs, and more.
Cons
- Installing HVAC automation systems represents a substantial initial investment. While the technology is becoming more accessible and affordable, it might be out of reach of small businesses or those with limited budgets.
- Initial installation may require the skills of a professional.
- Automation systems require both power and Wi-Fi to function. If you lose one or the other, it will cease to operate until those services are restored.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of pros and cons, but it does illustrate some of the positives and negatives that come with investing in a building automation system.
Looking Toward the Future
Don’t let the learning curve or investment scare you away if you’re considering one of these systems for your building. The benefits of automation in an HVAC system far outweigh the costs, especially if energy efficiency or sustainability are among your primary concerns.