Another important aspect is using an HVAC configuration that suits the needs of each building. For example, if a building is split into areas with different usage schedules, centralized HVAC equipment is not the best option. If unused areas are heated or cooled all the time, there is a waste of energy even if the equipment has a high efficiency. High-rise buildings provide another example, since they are better suited for hydronic systems; air ducts are impractical and inefficient for vertical distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Thermostat Settings Influence HVAC Efficiency<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With an efficient building envelope and a well-designed HVAC system, the final element is controlling the thermostat. Consider that more energy is required to establish a higher temperature difference between indoor and outdoor air. For this reason, setting the thermostat at the lowest or highest temperature available wastes energy.
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Setting back the thermostat is an effective way to reduce HVAC costs, and energy savings of up to 3% are possible for every 1\u00b0F of setback. Consider that \u201csetback\u201d has a different meaning depending on the season: it means setting the thermostat higher during summer, and lower during winter.
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When small HVAC equipment is used, a smart thermostat can optimize the temperature setting in real time. These thermostats learn usage habits and program themselves, saving energy without requiring frequent adjustments. In larger installations with centralized equipment, a Building Automation System (BAS) can perform the same role.
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HVAC costs are minimized when the building has an efficient envelope, a suitable HVAC design, and controls to optimize thermostat settings. In many buildings, HVAC systems consume more energy than all other loads combined. As a result, the energy saving opportunity is considerable.
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Heating, ventilation and air conditioning represent over 50% of energy expenses in many buildings, and this applies for both residential and commercial properties. Therefore, energy efficiency measures that target HVAC can achieve high energy savings. When building owners want to improve HVAC efficiency, a common mistake is focusing only on equipment. There are many other […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":47524,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7311],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n