The Internet of Things has revolutionized countless aspects of our lives, at work and at home. But how is this technology likely to change the way w...
The Internet of Things has revolutionized countless aspects of our lives, at work and at home. But how is this technology likely to change the way we use HVAC equipment, and what does that mean for home and business owners? Don’t worry—you’re about to find out.
Here at Action Furnace, we provide leading residential HVAC services in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer. We’ve been on the cutting edge of this technology for years, so we know all about the new developments you can expect to see in the near future, and how to make them work for you. Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to use the Internet of Things to enjoy better comfort and efficiency from your HVAC system.
What Is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (or IoT) is a network of physical objects connected to the internet that can communicate with each other via sensors and software. The data they exchange can be used to automate many tasks, allowing users to save time and effort.
Examples of common IoT objects available to consumers include:
- Smart thermostats, which can automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on your schedule and preferences
- Connected appliances like refrigerators and washing machines that can be controlled remotely
- Wearable devices like fitness trackers, which can track your activity and send the data to your phone
How Is IoT Technology Changing HVAC?
IoT is changing the way HVAC systems work by allowing users to control and monitor them remotely. The data collected by HVAC systems with IoT technology can be used to optimize the system’s performance, improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.
Smart thermostats, for example, can automatically adjust the temperature in a building based on the occupancy, weather, and other factors. This helps reduce energy consumption, resulting in lower heating and cooling bills.
IoT-enabled HVAC systems can also be monitored and controlled remotely using smartphones or tablets, allowing users to adjust the temperature and settings from a distance. Instead of coming home to a cold house in the winter and waiting for the furnace to turn on, you could set your thermostat to heat up the house while you’re on your way home—and arrive in an already-comfortable environment!
Ultimately, the use of IoT technology in HVAC systems helps improve energy efficiency and reduce costs, while also providing more convenient and flexible control for users.
How to Use IoT Technology in Your HVAC System
Most of the IoT devices that have a significant impact on heating, cooling, and ventilation technology are readily available to consumers. Here’s a list of the best IoT technology to use if you want to make your HVAC system more efficient:
Install Smart Thermostats
We mentioned these already, but smart thermostats belong at the top of this list because of the significant savings they can provide. The average Canadian home can save ~$185 per year on their energy bills by installing and using a smart thermostat, bringing their annual heating and cooling costs down by 8-12%.
See also: How to Save Money With a Smart Thermostat
Use Remote Temperature Sensors
These sensors can be placed throughout your home to collect data on temperature and humidity. This data can be used to optimize the performance of your HVAC system—either manually, or automatically if you have a smart thermostat.
Invest in Smart Vents
Vents that can be opened and closed remotely using a smartphone or tablet. These allow you to control the flow of air in your home, making your HVAC system more efficient.
Buy a Smart Humidifier or Air Purifier
Devices that can automatically adjust your home’s humidity or air quality to provide optimal comfort and freshness without wasting energy.
Take a Smarter Approach to HVAC Efficiency
Making your HVAC system more efficient doesn’t have to take a lot of work. When you use IoT technology to automate your heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment, you’ll be able to enjoy cost-effective comfort with minimal effort. To learn more about making your HVAC system more efficient, contact Action Furnace or check out our other posts for tips on how to lower your energy bills and more.