When optimizing heating systems in buildings, it is essential to consider the indoor temperature as a key factor in ensuring tenant comfort and energy efficiency. Edge uses average indoor temperatures as references for optimizing heating controls. However, not all indoor temperatures are suitable for this purpose, especially if they exhibit significant fluctuations. This article will provide useful information when choosing reference sensors for self-optimization.
Background
Using relatively stable indoor temperatures as references for averaging is important for several reasons:
- Consistent Comfort: Stable indoor temperatures provide a more consistent level of comfort for building tenants.
- Energy Efficiency: Edge operates most efficiently when stable indoor temperatures are maintained. Fluctuations in temperature require the heating system to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher energy costs.
- Optimal Performance: Edge relies on an even heat distribution to perform effectively. Variations in indoor temperature can therefore affect the performance of the system, leading to inefficient heating.
- Tenant Satisfaction: Maintaining stable indoor temperatures is essential for tenant satisfaction and productivity. By using stable temperatures as references for heating optimization, building managers can enhance tenant satisfaction and overall building performance.
Choosing reference sensors in Edge
In Edge, you select reference sensors within the Temperature module. To activate or deactivate sensors as references, you simply check or uncheck the box labeled “Ref” in the list of indoor devices. Reference sensors in Edge are the basis for the average indoor temperature used for self-optimization.
Indoor temperatures are affected by more than just the heating system in the building. Sunlight exposure, thermostat settings, tenant behavior, ventilation and airflow are a few outside factors that can affect the indoor temperature.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing reference sensors:
- Avoid sensors with major fluctuations in indoor temperature.
- Avoid sensors that are clearly affected by external heat sources.
- Avoid sensors that deviate significantly from the general average temperature.
- Choose reference sensors during a period when the heating system is operational.
- Choose reference sensors when you have about 1-2 weeks of data.
The goal is to have as many reference sensors as possible to prevent the average indoor temperature from being significantly influenced by just one or two sensors.
Remember that reference sensors should be dynamic. This means a sensor that works well as a reference initially might not continue to be reliable over time. Make it a habit to regularly check and update reference sensors in Edge to ensure their accuracy.
Here is an example of a good selection of reference sensors. The colored sensors are set as reference sensors, while the grey sensors have been removed as reference sensors. Relatively stable temperatures, no major fluctuations, or significant deviations from the general average.
Summary
In summary, when optimizing heating systems in buildings, it is essential to choose reference points with relatively stable indoor temperatures. This approach ensures consistent comfort, energy efficiency, optimal performance of Edge, and tenant satisfaction. By prioritizing stable temperatures, Edge can create a healthier, more comfortable, and more efficient indoor environment for tenants.