Visit the Energy Systems Laboratory Homepage.
Using EMCS Data to Document and Improve Air Handler Performance
Abstract
Traditionally, energy monitoring and control
systems (EMCS) have been used, as the name
implies, to monitor and control heating, ventilating
and air conditioning systems, however, this paper
will identify other benefits of an EMCS. Recording
EMCS data on a periodic basis, typically once an
hour, and analyzing it using a commercial off the
shelf database program has proven to be an effective
method to improve and document indoor air quality,
energy savings; and provide continuous controls
commissioning and performance diagnostics.
Identification of system problems is the key to
having an efficient and reliable EMCS. Once
identified they can be scheduled to be repaired and
system integrity will be maintained. Specific
diagnostic and functionality programming include:
Identifying leaking heating and cooling
control valves
Identifying simultaneous heating and cooling
operation
Identifying proper air side economizer
operation
Identifying faulty components
Identifying cooling and heating system
problems
Calculating ventilation rates
Calculating energy wastes and savings
Finally, using EMCS data in the non-traditional
manner has saved thousands of dollars in operation
and maintenance costs by providing a hands-off
"tool" to diagnose air handler performance.
Citation
Brightbill, E. L.; Rutt, J. P. (1998). Using EMCS Data to Document and Improve Air Handler Performance. Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu); Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu). Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /6730.