Maximise Energy Efficiency with Sensor Choice

Small Investment, Big Impact

Anu Kätkä from the measurement technology company Vaisala emphasizes the importance of choosing the right HVAC sensors to enhance energy efficiency and power usage effectiveness (PUE). While the cost of sensors may seem relatively insignificant, their impact on energy consumption can be disproportionately large.

The International Energy Agency reports that buildings contribute to 30% of global energy consumption and 26% of global energy-related emissions. This sector presents a crucial opportunity to combat climate change, with the accurate measurement of indoor and outdoor conditions playing a vital role in energy efficiency.

At COP28, the global community committed to doubling energy efficiency measures by 2030, highlighting the significance of investing in technologies that promote sustainability.

It All Starts with a Sensor

Sensors and transmitters are essential components of building automation and management systems. These devices monitor indoor and outdoor conditions such as temperature and humidity to optimize building operations. Accurate measurements are crucial for maintaining precise indoor environments and ensuring energy efficiency.

When selecting a sensor solution, it is essential to consider factors such as reliability, stability, and accuracy. Stability is particularly critical, as sensors must maintain accuracy in demanding environments over the long term. Low-quality sensors can lead to increased energy consumption and operational inefficiencies.

High-quality sensors with good stability offer long-term performance and require minimal maintenance. Investing in reliable instruments not only saves energy and reduces costs but also enhances the overall sustainability of building operations.

Choosing a Sensor Solution

When choosing a sensor solution, look for instruments with good stability, ease of maintenance, and modularity. High-quality transmitters can provide calculated parameters directly, improving system reliability and commissioning processes.

Investing in high-quality sensors like the Vaisala HMT120 can provide long-term benefits in terms of energy savings and operational efficiency. These sensors offer ease of calibration and maintenance, ensuring accurate measurements throughout their lifespan.

Small Inaccuracies Lead to Large Costs

A slight temperature measurement error can have significant consequences, leading to increased energy consumption and operational costs. Vaisala conducted a trial demonstrating that a one-degree error in temperature measurement could raise energy consumption by over 8.5%. Over time, these inaccuracies can result in substantial financial losses and affect operational performance.

Invest in Long-Term Thinking

Cheaper sensors may seem cost-effective initially but can result in higher maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies over time. Investing in high-quality sensors that offer long-term stability and accuracy is crucial for achieving optimal energy efficiency and cost savings.

For critical buildings, it is essential to prioritize high-quality sensors that can provide accurate measurements for an extended period. By investing in reliable sensor solutions, businesses can improve sustainability, save energy, and enhance operational performance.

For more information, visit www.vaisala.com

This article was featured in the June 2024 issue of Energy Manager magazine. Subscribe here.