Benefits Of Controlling HVAC Systems Remotely

by | Jun 26, 2015 | National Air Warehouse

wireless thermostat

In recent years, the explosive growth of two specific technologies has significantly changed how many people operate their hvac systems.  The first technology is low power communications – such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Bluetooth – which allows thermostats to exchange information with other devices using wireless communications.   The second technology, of course, is the exponential adoption of internet-connected smart devices.   As a result, countless homeowners now view and control their HVAC system’s thermostat from anywhere in the world.

How To Establish Remote Control

A thermostat with an on-board wireless radio must be installed. These thermostats are not significantly more expensive than standard thermostats; your trusted HVAC professional can recommend options.   Next, the thermostat will include steps for establishing a connection  to your home’s router, enabling  data to be transmitted via the Internet. And finally, download an app to your smart device to enable remote control.  While these steps might seem intimidating to those who are  uncomfortable with technology,  setup is typically easy and designed for success by people of all skill levels.  When setup is complete, homeowners will be able to view and control their thermostat any time — from an upstairs bedroom, to across the ocean.

Common Benefits From Remote HVAC Control

While connected thermostats have various features and capabilities based upon model and manufacturer, common benefits and applications for homeowners include:

  • Families with commitments which do not align to fixed schedules can adjust conservative temperatures upon leaving the home to save energy, and then remotely set comfortable temperatures prior to  returning home.
  • Vacation home owners can monitor HVAC settings of distant properties, and especially be alerted if indoor temperatures fall outside of expected ranges.
  • Rental property owners can monitor HVAC settings of properties to ensure tenants are comfortable while preventing inefficient settings.
  • Caretakers can verify that elderly parents or other loved ones needing special attention are living within a safe temperature setting.

Additionally,  HVAC service providers are beginning to use diagnostics data from connected thermostats to expedite the troubleshooting and repair of clients’ systems.  Both homeowners and service providers benefit from better service with lower costs.

While remote monitoring of HVAC is not a need for everyone,  many homeowners do find significant value in the convenience and awareness that connected thermostats offer.

For professional and personalized advice regarding all of the latest advancements in HVAC equipment and control, please National Air Warehouse for more information. Have you purchased an remote control setup for your HVAC system and if so, what is your favorite benefit?

Why Bigger HVAC Systems are Not Necessarily Better

by | Jun 9, 2015 | Uncategorized

Is Bigger Really Better
Doubtless, you have heard that today’s residential HVAC systems are so much more energy-efficient than their counterparts from just a decade ago, so it stands to reason that the bigger the system, the more money you will save in the long run.  That is not necessarily the case. While figures such as SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) for  air conditioning and AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) definitely play into energy efficiency, HVAC units must be properly sized for your home in order to run at peak efficiency levels. Systems that are too big for your home will waste energy and money, while the same goes for systems that are too small.

HVAC systems that are too large or too small for your home will cycle frequently, meaning they will turn on and turn off a lot, leading to a waste in energy, even if the new system is more efficient than the one you had. A cooling system that is too big cools down the temperature very quickly, but it does not run long enough to remove sufficient moisture from the air. Many people turn down the thermostat to make the air conditioner run longer to remove the moisture, increasing the utility bill.

Yet, how do you know if your HVAC system is properly sized for your home? The answer comes from a residential load calculation. When shopping for a new system, your contractor should perform these calculations based on the square footage of your home. These calculations go beyond square footage, however, as size doesn’t tell the entire story. Load J calculations consider factors such as number, size, and placement of rooms; number, size, and placement of windows and doors; types of windows and doors; number and arrangement of floors; and your local climate. The formulas used to make these calculations have been computerized so they are quick and accurate. To ensure that your system operates at peak efficiency, also ask for a Load D calculation. This mathematical formula makes sure that your existing ductwork is sufficient to handle airflow properly.

For any questions about sizing systems, Rheem heat pump or any other facet of heating and air conditioning equipment, don’t hesitate to contact us at National Air Warehouse for more information.