Benefits of Building Automation Systems - Modern buildings use DDC controls for building automation systems. Building automation systems offer energy savings because they are energy management systems. These systems allow management to automatically control many processes involved with HVAC systems, lighting, and emergency systems. The systems are generally hooked up to the internet so monitoring and control can be done worldwide. (more…)
Many people wonder what Building Automation Systems (BAS) can do. The primary use of BAS is commercial HVAC control systems and energy management system applications. Building Automation itself is an energy management system that saves management companies and building owners by efficiently controlling air conditioning and heating comfort and process systems.
Thermostat Wiring Colors Code Page Navigation
Always follow the thermostat manufacturer’s instructions whenever changing the thermostat. Always turn the power off at the air handler and the condenser and make sure there is no voltage at the transformer before proceeding.
For instructions on how to wire a thermostat, please see how to wire a thermostat page. Refer back to this page for thermostat wire colors.
Enthalpy wheel in a heat recovery unit
Energy Recovery Wheels | HVAC Enthalpy & Heat - As the cost of energy rises engineers are looking for ways to improve and increase energy efficiency. Aside from HVAC equipment with higher energy efficiency rates, improving structures for less heat loss and heat gain, and building automation systems giving the equipment precision control for the
better efficiency of the equipment, there are other ways to increase energy efficiency inside buildings. One of the ways to increase energy efficiency inside buildings is to add energy recovery wheels to the economizer systems. A US Department of Energy study concluded energy recovery wheels can save over 15% of the energy used in commercial HVAC applications.
Air Conditioner Ductwork Leaks | Leaky Duct Work - A good consideration when replacing the air conditioning system is the ductwork.
Red Arrow Shows a Duct Work Leak
Ductwork seems to be the most ignored part of an HVAC system. However, it is a very important consideration in this age of new technology and higher energy-efficient equipment being developed and manufactured. You can have the most energy-efficient engine but if it’s in an old 60 or 70’s model car your efficiency is going to suffer. The same is true with HVAC systems. (more…)
Pricing New Air Conditioner - We get emails on a regular basis asking us about prices. Prices for a new air conditioner, heat pump system, boilers, and other types of HVAC systems. This article addresses those questions and why it is nearly impossible to give anyone an estimate.
Estimates for new systems are nearly impossible through email or forum. Someone needs to first look at the house and other factors involved with giving someone a price. (more…)
Asbestos & Mesothelioma HVAC Technicians Information - Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its resistance to heat and fire, as well as its durability and inability to conduct electricity. All of these characteristics made asbestos an ideal material for products in and around HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. For example, pipes and ducts around HVAC systems were commonly wrapped with asbestos insulation. When workers service HVAC systems in older homes they run the risk of being exposed to aging asbestos materials. (more…)
Building Commissioning is a Systemic Process
Building Commissioning Benefits - The Building Commissioning Guide defines commissioning as a systemic process of assuring verification and documentation, from the design phase to a minimum of one year after construction that all facility systems perform interactively in accordance with the design documentation and intent, and in accordance with the owner’s operational needs including preparation of operating personnel. (more…)
HVAC Careers - So you want to become an HVAC Technician and want to know how to find a successful career? It’s not easy but here’s some help for you. First of all, you need a good foundation of the basics and it would help if you understood the different types of jobs you can find by pursuing a career in HVAC. (more…)
HVAC Indoor Air Quality - Indoor air quality is very important to our health. There are not many people who worry about indoor air quality unless they have asthma or another respiratory problem that can easily be aggravated by indoor pollutants or bad indoor air quality. If we examine the things in our air, we are surprised by the things in the air which can have a dramatic effect on our health. People who suffer from respiratory health problems usually see increased health when they institute a good indoor air quality program that can include installing electronic air cleaners and ultra-violet air cleaners along with a good air filtration system. (more…)