The Internet of Things (IoT) is no stranger to the HVAC industry, and IoT solutions for HVAC are constantly revolutionizing the way the industry operates.
You may also have IoT devices in your home. Doorbells, security systems, televisions, air conditioners, washing machines, stoves, and many more appliances can be connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), dramatically changing their flexibility. But what exactly is the Internet of Things?
For beginners, the Internet of Things (IoT) is the connection between sensors and devices via the internet. This connectivity, in turn, enables control and data sharing via the internet. This means that the air conditioner in your garage can be controlled from anywhere in the world with your mobile phone, as long as it's connected to Wi-Fi. Who would have thought of this 20 years ago?
The entire connectivity process revolves around the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. Intel predicts the IoT world will grow at a lightning speed, reaching a peak of 200 billion devices by 2020, compared to only 2 billion devices in 2006.
Innovation in HVAC technology is currently on the rise. The implementation of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the HVAC industry is particularly interesting, perhaps unique. The implementation of HVAC IoT is similar to consumer IoT and infrastructure IoT. It not only provides consumers with greater flexibility and control but also allows manufacturers and building companies to rigorously inspect their systems to ensure proper operation.
Let's explore some ways the Internet of Things (IoT) is changing the landscape of HVAC services.
Real-time data management and diagnostics
Perhaps the most useful component of IoT implementation in HVAC is data management and diagnostics. Manufacturers and OEMs are constantly working to obtain the most accurate and real-time operational data on the devices and equipment they install in residential, commercial, or industrial environments.
Controllers for commercial HVAC applications are becoming increasingly powerful. More sophisticated algorithms, analytics capabilities, and data communication protocols are boosting the commercial HVAC market, while also creating a demand for more robust IoT networks to facilitate data sharing.
Beyond the obvious benefits to consumers in terms of energy efficiency, comfort, and convenience, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will also benefit from deeper insights and improved building design, equipment manufacturing, and demand forecasting. This is why building owners and HVAC manufacturers are increasingly inclined towards the shared goal of achieving greater IoT integration within their respective fields.
Manufacturers and building operators both need to anticipate any potential problems within their systems to minimize downtime. This not only saves on maintenance costs but also ensures uninterrupted service delivery. Therefore, real-time data allows OEMs, building managers, and even contractors to better schedule their service and maintenance practices and ensure timely action.
The value of interconnectivity between previously independent devices cannot be underestimated. In this regard, with the emergence of HVAC IoT devices, the industry is moving in the right direction and towards the concept of smart buildings.
Energy saving
For consumers, the most important factor is the energy-saving effect offered by any new technology. HVAC IoT devices offer a complete set of functions and features that can achieve significant savings.
Take scheduling your air conditioner as an example. Normally, you shouldn't always turn off the air conditioner when you leave home, as the house might get hot and require more energy to cool. But what if the air conditioner knew when you'd be home and turned on half an hour or 15 minutes before you actually arrived? This is possible with smart scheduling if you arrive home at the same time every day of the week. Thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT), you can set a schedule for your connected air conditioner to turn on its cooling system shortly before you get home.
Another way to achieve this is to enable location-based functionality. A smart air conditioner controller can sense your location via a mobile app on your phone and command the air conditioner to turn off or shut down depending on whether you are near or far from home.
Therefore, programmable thermostats and intelligent AC controllers offer unprecedented functionality, bringing next-generation energy-saving technologies and methods to ordinary household consumers.
Cross-function
As mentioned earlier, HVAC IoT solutions are bringing previously standalone devices into the realm of interoperability. Appliances that were traditionally separate from the home are now being integrated into the broader "smart home" space. Home assistants such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa are major players in this space, providing a single access point for various devices to connect and work collaboratively with multiple smart systems.
For example, voice-activated control of air conditioners is now a very common feature. Programmable thermostats and smart air conditioner controllers, such as CieloBreezPlus, can connect to home assistants to work via dedicated voice commands, or become part of more complex daily tasks or skills. Routines allow you to operate multiple devices in your home using a single command.
Smart air conditioners, smart blinds, smart fans, and other devices can work together to provide the perfect indoor climate based on outdoor temperature conditions, while reducing your costs!
The future of HVAC?
Innovation in the HVAC field has already begun to show results. Energy saving, improved comfort, demand forecasting, and predictive maintenance are just some of the ways in which HVAC is making rapid progress; the Internet of Things (IoT) is the main driving force behind this innovation.
Over time, the cost of providing WiFi connectivity for HVAC systems will only decrease. While third-party AC controllers have made significant strides in the home appliance sector, commercial and industrial applications are still in their infancy. These HVAC IoT devices are sure to leave their mark on the industry. The future looks promising, with connected HVAC systems becoming the norm. Data analytics and machine learning will be the natural next steps for HVAC IoT and will prove to be game-changers in the industry.
In the near future, the implementation of the Internet of Things (IoT) will no longer be seen as an add-on or high-end feature, but rather as an essential component of HVAC systems. The terms IoT and HVAC will become synonymous. IoT solutions for HVAC will be the preferred method for troubleshooting. This is a world we are heading towards, and it is truly exciting!
