ACR Journal

October | November 2021 CONTROLS 18 Donna-Marie Evans, B2B product marketing lead at LG Electronics UK, discusses why HVAC control strategies are critical to extend system efficiencies and meet future legislation. Maximising on control Volume 7 No.6 With HVAC equipment pretty much as e cient as it can be, we have to look at other ways to maximise the e ectiveness and e ciency of our heating and cooling technologies. Legislation is driving the net zero carbon agenda and some hugely optimistic targets for achieving a greener future; the key to progress is the available system control options to advance the cause. For many, the simplest of controls – on/ o – is still the one that is used in homes and commercial settings across the country, with too much energy wasted because the heating or air conditioning is left operating for far too long and at times that are inappropriate to its use. Sometimes this happens because the individuals responsible for controlling the HVAC equipment simply do not understand the controls available. Still, in many cases, it’s a lack of responsibility invested from those responsible for ensuring the heating or air conditioning is only switched on when needed and at required levels. So what is the solution to this dilemma, and how do we maximise the use of advanced controls technology to help waste less energy and create lower emissions levels? Control networks HVAC controls have advanced in sophistication for domestic and commercial heating, and air conditioning, with intelligent controls that encourage us all to save money and energy becoming ever more popular. The most basic control is direct digital control, with most controllers being programmable to include timing schedules, setpoints, trend logs and alarms. In addition, these controllers usually have inputs that allow measurement of variables – temperature, humidity and pressure, and in direct correlation, outputs that control system processes and modulation. More complex HVAC systems can interface with building automation systems, allowing building owners to control their heating and cooling. The building owner or its facilities management team can monitor the systems remotely and control what happens in that building or group of buildings. This remote control method is generally applied with dedicated gateways, capable of connecting advanced variable refrigerant flow and split HVAC