What is an HVAC Monitoring System?

In the United States, HVAC systems used to heat and cool commercial buildings account for 27% of commercial energy usage.

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What is an HVAC Monitoring System? 

Difference Between Commercial and Residential HVAC Monitoring Systems

How Does an HVAC Monitoring System Work? 

‍Core Features of HVAC Monitoring and Control Systems

Benefits of Using HVAC Monitoring Systems

An HVAC Monitoring System in Action

The Evolution of Remote HVAC Monitoring Systems

Selecting the Ideal HVAC Monitoring System

Implementing HVAC Monitoring Systems: Key Considerations

What is an HVAC Monitoring System? 

An HVAC monitoring system continually tracks and analyzes the energy usage and performance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units in both residential and commercial buildings. 

The primary purpose of HVAC monitoring systems is to identify and diagnose faults within HVAC systems, allowing onsite facility teams to take action and resolve mechanical faults before they become mechanical failures.

Difference Between Commercial and Residential HVAC Monitoring Systems

Commercial HVAC Monitoring:

Commercial HVAC systems are generally more complex due to the broader areas they need to manage, featuring multiple sensors linked to a central control unit. They often integrate with building management systems that include other facility functions like lighting, fire alarms, and security systems. 

Modern buildings typically employ Direct Digital Controls (DDC) which allow for electronic communication and real-time data visibility through a digital interface. This connectivity enables remote system management from any location with internet access. 

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Residential HVAC Monitoring:

On the other hand, residential systems tend to be simpler. Homeowners often use smart thermostats that provide updates and automatic adjustments based on changes in temperature, humidity, or user habits. HVAC monitoring usually involves a thermostat connected to an air conditioning unit, acting both as a controller and sensor. Setting the thermostat to a desired temperature, such as 75 degrees, directs the A/C to operate until it reaches that temperature and then switch off.

How Does an HVAC Monitoring System Work? 

An HVAC monitoring system is a combination of both sensors and software systems. HVAC monitoring systems consist of three parts: the monitors, the wireless gateway, and finally the software for viewing the data

HVAC monitoring sensors include: 

• Duct Sensors
• AC Current Meters
• Wireless Thermostats
• Vibration Meters
• Air Velocity Sensors
• Differential Air Pressure Sensors
• Air Quality SensorsTemperature Sensors

Using sensors or a series of pre-ordained rules, HVAC performance information is logged and used to monitor each peace of equipment. After logging information, the sensor passes the data onto a wireless gateway. As HVAC sensors effectively function as IOT devices, they first require an internet connection to tap into before sending data to the final destination, a software platform.

An ideal final destination for sensor information is a building energy management system, a software tool that sits on top of your building management system and monitors your whole building’s energy performance. 

‍Core Features of HVAC Monitoring and Control Systems

Let's examine the key components that make HVAC monitoring systems indispensable tools in the arsenal of modern facility management.

• Fault Detection: Utilizes BMS data for instant issue identification within the HVAC system, streamlining maintenance and repairs.
• Targeted Commercial HVAC Maintenance: Moves beyond traditional schedules, pinpointing exact needs for system attention, thus preventing problem escalation.
• Smart Controls: Ensures optimal setting adjustments, maintaining comfort without excess energy use.
• Dashboards: Offers a user-friendly interface for comprehensive system oversight.
• Tenant Comfort Scores: Evaluates thermal comfort within the commercial building, directly influencing tenant satisfaction.

These features collectively ensure operational efficiency, energy conservation, and improved tenant experience, positioning HVAC monitoring systems as pivotal in modern facility management.

Benefits of Using HVAC Monitoring Systems

Larger commercial buildings, with their greater initial energy consumption, stand to gain significantly from HVAC efficiency improvements—illustrating that the more energy wasted, the larger the savings potential.

For instance, a company with a large commercial office portfolio that generates $50 million in revenue and spends $5 million on energy costs, could benefit substantially from achieving a 20% HVAC energy efficiency improvement. 

Beyond energy efficiency and the financial bottom line, HVAC monitoring systems can be crucial in fulfilling environmental responsibilities and meeting regulatory requirements.  

Below you can see a list of HVAC monitoring system benefits:

• Cost Savings: They significantly reduce energy bills by optimizing operations and minimizing waste.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: By using energy more efficiently, these systems help in significantly reducing emissions, aiding sustainability efforts.
• Reliable Operations: Ensures system reliability, reducing downtime and preventing productivity losses due to equipment failures.
• Extended Equipment Life: This leads to less stress on HVAC components, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to sustainability.
• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Balances ventilation, temperature, and humidity, enhancing the environment for occupants.
• Increased Occupant Satisfaction: Results in a more comfortable environment, likely leading to higher retention rates.
• Better Sustainability Framework Performance: There are several government regulations and private sustainability rating systems that are used to objectively judge a building’s operational performance. Reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions can lead to higher scores for frameworks like LEED, NABERS, BREEAM, etc.

An HVAC Monitoring System in Action

A good example of an HVAC monitoring system in action is the below screenshot from CIM's building analytics system: a faulty Variable Air Volume operation.

A Variable Air Volume (VAV) damper, was fully open but wasn't allowing enough air to flow through as it should. An actuator is a device that operates the damper, so if it's not working properly, the damper won't be able to control airflow correctly, leading to issues with efficiently heating or cooling the space.

Using the building's own data, the PEAK analytics software detected this problem and identified that the cause was a malfunctioning actuator.

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Figure 1. Analytics Detecting Faulty VAV operation. VAV damper opens 100% however airflow setpoint is not achieved.

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Figure 2. CIM's PEAK platform highlighting the malfunctioning actuator

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Figure 3. The replaced actuator.

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After identifying the fault, CIM’s HVAC monitoring system, automatically assigned the ticket to a contractor to replace the actuator and get the VAV unit back to running at peak performance. The platform uses AI to recommend a solution.

The Evolution of Remote HVAC Monitoring Systems

The evolution of Remote HVAC System Monitoring has closely paralleled the broader trend of digital transformation in commercial real estate. This journey can be outlined in several key stages, reflective of the industry's wider adoption of technology to optimize building operations, enhance efficiency, and drive sustainability.

Starting in the 1980s and 1990s, the initial focus was on integrating and centralizing control over various building systems, including HVAC, lighting, and security. This period marked the beginning of a unified approach to building management, setting the stage for more sophisticated systems.

The late 1990s to 2000s saw a significant digital leap forward with the introduction of sensors and the internet, which enabled real-time data collection and monitoring. This advancement allowed for predictive maintenance and more precise control over building environments, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

In the 2000s, sustainability became a focal point, with HVAC monitoring systems increasingly designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. This shift was driven by a global push towards green buildings and the adoption of sustainability certifications.

The 2010s ushered in the era of smart buildings, thanks to the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT). Buildings became interconnected ecosystems of devices that could communicate and make automated decisions based on real-time data, leading to unprecedented levels of control, building automation, and energy optimization.

Below, you can see the projected growth of the global HVAC services market. HVAC systems will only continue to become more prevalent in commercial buildings.

Figure 4. Projected growth of HVAC services market

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Against this backdrop, remote HVAC system monitoring has started to be used to manage energy for large commercial buildings. Cloud-based platforms, like CIM’s PEAK platform, along with new IOT devices have significantly enhanced accessibility and management capabilities over buildings, enabling real-time insights and remote control over building environments. This evolution has streamlined operations, reduced energy consumption, and improved tenant experience.

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Selecting the Ideal HVAC Monitoring System

When choosing an HVAC monitoring system, it's important to prioritize systems that not only fit your current needs but also adapt to future expansions and technological advancements. Here are key criteria to consider:

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• Integration with Existing BMS: The system's ability to integrate with your existing Building Management System (BMS) is crucial. It should enhance and complement the functionalities of your BMS, allowing for a unified control and monitoring experience. This ensures that your investment adds value to the existing infrastructure rather than complicating it.

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• Scalability: Opt for a system that can grow with your facility's needs. Whether it's adding new zones, integrating new technologies, or expanding the building itself, the system should scale without requiring a complete overhaul, saving you time and money in the long run.

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• Proven Success and Client Base: Given the plethora of vendors in the market, focus on those with a track record of success and a robust client base. Vendors that have demonstrated continued success are more likely to offer reliable, effective solutions and support. This vetting process ensures you invest in a system backed by real-world applications and satisfaction.

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• Full Platform Solution: Rather than opting for a system that requires constant manual input or oversight (often referred to as "manalytics"), seek out a vendor that offers a full platform solution. This means the system itself is capable of not just data collection but also analysis and actionable insights, minimizing the need for constant engineer involvement and streamlining your operations.

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Considering these criteria during your selection process will guide you toward a system that enhances your facility's efficiency, adapts to future needs, and delivers on the promise of modern HVAC monitoring technology.

Implementing HVAC Monitoring Systems: Key Considerations

‍Implementing HVAC monitoring systems involves navigating several challenges:

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• BMS Compatibility: The success of an HVAC monitoring system hinges on a modern, functional Building Management System (BMS) that integrates seamlessly with new technologies. Addressing the complexities of BMS operation and ensuring compatibility are essential first steps.

• Funding: Determining who finances the HVAC monitoring system—tenant, owner, or facility manager—is crucial. This decision affects the system's implementation and its potential to deliver long-term savings and benefits.

• Technological Innovation Resistance: The commercial real estate industry's slow adoption of new technologies, despite advances like occupancy sensors, is shifting. The drive towards 2030 sustainability goals encourages a more open approach to energy-saving technologies.

• Human Factor: The real value of HVAC monitoring systems lies in the actionable response to their insights. Like a fire alarm signaling smoke, these systems depend on facility managers and contractors to address detected issues. Ensuring stakeholder engagement and willingness to act is vital.

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Overcoming these challenges requires a strategic approach, emphasizing the importance of modern infrastructure, clear responsibility for costs, engagement with technological advancements, and active stakeholder involvement. The benefits of HVAC monitoring systems in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and operational performance make them a critical investment for the future of commercial real estate.

Conclusion

The facts in favor of HVAC monitoring systems remain clear. An Australian government report found that the typical energy consumption of HVAC systems in office buildings stands at 40%. In the UK, a comparatively milder climate, space heating, fans, and cooling & humidification comprise roughly 47% of energy (gas and electricity) consumption costs. 

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Using an HVAC monitoring system offers a clear and attainable method for reducing energy usage and carbon emissions.

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Interested in transforming your building's energy efficiency and operational performance? Discover CIM's HVAC monitoring software solution. Our state-of-the-art platform is designed to not only streamline your operations but also significantly reduce energy costs and lower your building's carbon footprint. Experience the future of building management with CIM's solution and take the first step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.