If you’re a building manager, HVAC professional, or anyone concerned with reducing the energy that’s required for cooling systems, integrating HVAC economizers can make a big difference. Economizers can reduce energy consumption, save on costs, and help meet environmental standards. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of using economizers, how they work, and how to select the right one for your building.
What Are HVAC Economizers?
HVAC economizers are devices that help cooling systems use less energy by taking advantage of cool outside air. The concept is straightforward: when the outdoor air (OSA) temperature and humidity are favorable, the economizer draws in this air to cool the building.
This process, known as “free cooling,” reduces the need for the air conditioning compressor to operate, which in turn lowers energy costs. When the outside air is not suitable for cooling, economizer dampers switch to a minimum ventilation position to keep the system running efficiently.
How Economizers Work
When you understand how economizers work, it can help to optimize their use so they run more efficiently and with fewer issues. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:
Free Cooling: When the outside temperature is cooler than the inside temperature, the economizer allows fresh, cool outside air into the system. This cool air is used to lower the building’s temperature, reducing the need for mechanical cooling. This method is highly effective during cooler months or in mild climates.
OSA Dampers: Economizers use outside air dampers that adjust based on the temperature and humidity of the outside environment. If conditions are right for free cooling, the OSA dampers open fully to allow the maximum amount of cool air in. If the conditions are not right, these dampers close to a minimum setting to reduce the intake of outside air.
Economizer Dampers: When the outside air is not suitable for cooling—due to high temperatures or humidity—economizer dampers adjust to a minimum ventilation position. This helps maintain indoor air quality without compromising energy efficiency.
By running your HVAC system this way, economizers provide free cooling and can lead to substantial energy savings, especially in large industrial buildings. Many industrial cooling services now recommend economizers as an essential part of an energy-efficient cooling strategy.
Benefits of Using HVAC Economizers
The benefits of economizers extend beyond simple cost savings. Here are some key advantages:
Lower Energy Costs: Economizers minimize the run-time of the air conditioning compressor by leveraging free cooling when conditions allow. This can lead to significant reductions in energy bills over time.
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: By bringing in fresh air from the outside, economizers help maintain better indoor air quality. This is particularly important in commercial and industrial settings where air can quickly become stale.
Compliance with Environmental Standards: Using economizers can help buildings meet various environmental standards and regulations. This not only improves sustainability but can also lead to tax benefits or rebates.
Extended Equipment Life: Because the compressor runs less often, there is less wear and tear on the HVAC equipment. This can prolong the life of the system, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Improved Comfort: Economizers can help maintain consistent indoor temperatures without putting extra strain on the system, enhancing overall comfort for occupants.
By focusing on these benefits, building managers and HVAC professionals can make a compelling case for incorporating economizers into their cooling strategies.
Choosing the Right Economizer for Your Needs
Not all economizers are created equal. It’s a good idea to consider a handful of important factors before making a final decision:
Climate Compatibility: Choose an economizer that matches the climate in which your building is located. In cooler climates, dry bulb economizers work well, while in more humid areas, enthalpy economizers are better suited.
System Compatibility: Make sure the economizer is compatible with the existing HVAC system. Some economizers are designed to work only with specific systems or configurations.
Controls and Automation: Modern economizers come with advanced controls that can automate damper adjustments for optimal performance. These controls can be integrated into a building’s existing automation system.
Quality and Durability: Look for economizers from reputable manufacturers that offer robust warranties and have a reputation for durability. This can help prevent frequent breakdowns and save on repair costs.
Consulting with experts in industrial cooling services can provide valuable insights into which economizer would work best for a specific building or application.
Best Practices for Running HVAC Economizers
To get the most out of an HVAC economizer, consider these best practices:
Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and cleaning of the economizer components to keep them functioning correctly.
Calibrate Sensors: Ensure that all sensors used for detecting outside air conditions are correctly calibrated for accurate readings.
Update Controls: Modernize the economizer controls to enable better automation and integration with the building’s HVAC system.
Monitor Energy Usage: Keep track of energy usage before and after installing an economizer to measure its effectiveness and make adjustments as needed.
Following these practices helps maximize the benefits of economizers and keeps your cooling system running smoothly.
If you’d like to learn more about HVAC economizers or find out how our services can help, contact TRI-AIR SYSTEMS today for more information:
https://www.triair.ca/contact-us/
FAQ's
What is an economizer in HVAC?
An HVAC economizer is a device that improves cooling efficiency by using cool outdoor air when conditions are favorable. This “free cooling” reduces the need for air conditioning compressors, lowering energy costs and enhancing sustainability.
How does a forced air furnace work?
While not directly related to economizers, a forced air furnace heats air using a burner or heat exchanger and circulates it through the building via ducts. Economizers can complement forced air systems by reducing cooling energy use during milder weather.
How does forced air heating work?
Forced air heating uses a furnace to heat air, which is then distributed using ducts and vents. Economizers are typically part of cooling systems but contribute to overall HVAC efficiency.
What is an HVAC economizer?
An HVAC economizer works by bringing in cool outdoor air to reduce the need for mechanical cooling. When outdoor air temperature and humidity are suitable, economizer dampers open to allow maximum fresh air into the system, saving energy and lowering costs.
What is the most efficient way to heat a commercial building?
The blog focuses on cooling efficiency, but for heating, integrating economizers in cooling systems, improving insulation, and using energy-efficient HVAC systems can optimize overall energy use in a commercial building.
What is a cooling tower?
Though not directly addressed, cooling towers are part of broader cooling strategies. In systems with economizers, cooling towers might complement the economizer’s effort to manage building temperature efficiently.
What is a heat exchanger HVAC?
A heat exchanger in an HVAC system transfers heat between air or fluids without mixing them. Economizers often work alongside heat exchangers to enhance system efficiency during free cooling operations.
What is central forced air?
Central forced air systems distribute conditioned air throughout the building using ducts. Economizers integrate into these systems to improve cooling efficiency by reducing reliance on compressors.
How do air conditioners work?
Air conditioners cool by using refrigerant to absorb and expel heat. Economizers reduce the workload of air conditioners by leveraging cool outdoor air, decreasing the need for mechanical cooling.
How do chillers work expansion valves?
Although not explicitly discussed in the blog, economizers can work with systems like chillers by reducing the cooling load. Chillers rely on expansion valves to reduce refrigerant pressure and cool the system.