Pneumatic vs DDC HVAC Energy Management Systems

Many older industrial buildings use pneumatic HVAC control systems. These manual controls have the benefit of long-lasting use – many buildings have pneumatic controls that have been in place for decades and continue to function. However, direct digital control or DDC are considered more energy efficient with many advantages not offered by pneumatic systems. If you manage or own a commercial building with pneumatic controls, it is important to know the benefits of DDC to determine if it is a better option for your building’s HVAC system.

Why Use DDC for Your HVAC Energy Management System?

If you have pneumatic controls, you may have wondered whether upgrading to DDC is worth the investment. If your energy costs are low and your industry does not require precise control over temperatures, pneumatic may work adequately. However, if you want to lower energy costs and improve your control options over your energy management, DDC can be worth the investment. Some benefits include:

  • Higher accuracy and precision with climate control
  • Improve energy efficiency with easier management
  • Advanced reporting systems
  • Easier adaption to automation systems
  • Wireless and remote control options

The drawbacks to a DDC over pneumatic energy management system are related to maintenance and longevity. In some cases, digital controls may need repairs or replacement more frequently than the more basic manual controls used in pneumatic. However, the savings in energy costs can more than make up for the difference and many DDC systems can still last for decades.

For building managers considering upgrading to a DDC system from pneumatic, talk to a expert. Consult an industrial HVAC installer that offers both systems to determine whether a retrofit to a new system is a wise investment for your building.

Posted on behalf of:
JS Thomas Service, Inc
4085 Nine McFarland Dr
Alpharetta, GA 30004
(770) 475-2600

Commercial HVAC Automation for Small and Medium Businesses

HVAC automation has been available for some time, although usually only used by large industrial businesses. However, advancements in technology have made this efficient and effective tool available for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium companies. Automation of commercial HVAC systems allows for more enhanced control of energy costs and efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment for any size business. 

Benefits of Commercial HVAC Automation

HVAC automation allows business owners and property managers the ability to operate, monitor and control their HVAC system from anywhere using a web-based system. This means that owners or managers of several locations can have access to all their HVAC systems from anywhere they have internet access. The benefits of these systems include:

  • 24/7 access to HVAC controls
  • Immediate alerts for any problems
  • Efficient energy management
  • Improved data and security management

These benefits offer substantial cost savings, in energy costs, labor, management time and travel to the facilities. Many businesses can recover the initial cost of automation installation within a few years, with additional long-term savings. These systems can be installed as part of the HVAC system for a new facility or as part of a retrofit for an existing system.

For owners and managers of small to medium businesses that thought HVAC automation was out of reach for their facility size, it is worth investigating the advantages and options now available. Having the efficiency of automation can give even small businesses the same tools for controlling utility costs that was once only available for large companies.  Local commercial HVAC service companies can offer automation solutions that can fit almost any size business and budget.

Posted on behalf of:
JS Thomas Service, Inc
4085 Nine McFarland Dr
Alpharetta, GA 30004
(770) 475-2600