Sensors for HVAC Systems: What Are They and How Do They Work?

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A top concern for anyone installing an HVAC system is that it's working efficiency. More people are looking for air conditioners and heating systems that can get the job done without sending utility bills through the roof. Functionality is also another important factor, with homeowners looking for HVAC systems that can also control humidity and purify air in the home.

To satisfy these needs, manufacturers are now installing sensors into their heating and cooling units. These sensors are designed to detect temperature, pressure, humidity or CO2 levels in the home. With accurate readings, the HVAC unit can adjust its settings to correct highly humid air or to adjust indoor temperatures accordingly.

Here are some examples of these sensors.

1. Carbon Dioxide sensors

To improve indoor air quality, you can equip your home with a carbon dioxide sensor. These sensors come as part of the unit or as an independent accessory. They use beams and wavelengths to determine CO2 levels in your home.

High levels of CO2 can affect the air that you breathe and cause further complications over time. Therefore, these sensors help you monitor and respond to unusually high CO2 levels.

2. Temperature sensors

Temperature sensors are perhaps the most important for determining overall performance in your unit. With accurate detection of indoor temperature, your air conditioning or heating unit can ensure proper temperatures and minimise wastage. For example, if you set your thermostat to a particular temperature, these sensors will ensure that your home remains at the right setting. The unit will shut off once your home is cool or warm enough, thereby saving on costs.

Temperature sensors can be installed in air ducts, on indoor/outdoor walls and in other areas of interest.

3. Humidity sensors

Highly humid air can make your home quite uncomfortable. Humid air makes you feel sweaty and stuffy, with occasional difficulty while breathing. By installing a humidity sensor, you can control how humid your home is with the tap of a button.

The sensor works by giving you accurate readings of how much water vapour is in the air. You can then adjust your HVAC system to supply cool, fresh air in the home.

4. Pressure sensors

Pressure sensors are also important for your HVAC system. The detect pressure changes in various parts of the home, which may be a sign of leaking air (or another operational challenge with your unit). A pressure sensor can help you identify issues early, before you begin to incur high heating/cooling costs due to a faulty unit.

With the right sensors attached to (or installed in) your unit, you can enjoy better HVAC performance and cost savings.

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3 October 2018

Heating and Cooling Your Home: A Guide

Howdy! I'm Hank and I am writing this blog so I can give you the lowdown on the cheapest and most effective ways you can heat or cool your home. I'm not a trained HVAC contractor but my brother is. Last year, I called up my brother and asked him to drive over and install a new HVAC system in my property. The old system wasn't cooling or warming my house and it was making a strange noise. During the installation, my brother gave me lots of great advice and explained exactly what he was doing at each step. I hope you find this information useful.