The Uses of Data Loggers in the HVAC Industry

Data loggers are important tools within the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. Everything from manufacturing to routine maintenance and troubleshooting can be more easily accomplished when the relevant data is available for review and analysis. HVAC technicians receive extensive training in the use of data logging tools and software as part of their education.

Understandably, it’s vital that air conditioners, heat exchangers and other precision components of an HVAC system be held to a high standard during the manufacturing process. Defects in manufacturing can lead to unsatisfied customers, and in turn damage a company’s reputation. Strategically placed data recorder systems function as automated quality control at key points of the assembly line. However, these recorders should not be the only line of defense against manufacturing defects. Trained technicians should also routinely check that parts are being built to specifications and that the data recorders are doing their job.

HVAC systems have a direct effect on a building’s internal air quality. Poor air quality is an obvious health hazard and drain on worker productivity. Even a system that’s running smoothly and efficiently may introduce unwanted odors and gases into the air. This is yet another area where data loggers serve an indispensable purpose.

Efficiency has become an increasingly important consideration with all HVAC systems, especially in very hot or cold climates. Several factors can have a direct effect on overall system efficiency, including thermostat calibration and properly sealed tubes and fitting. Data loggers can be installed at key points within a system to ensure that no gases, such as Freon, are leaking out. Temperature and humidity data loggers can reveal when an HVAC system is not functioning at peak efficiency, or worse, is allowing the buildup of mold and mildew.

In most areas, HVAC systems are bound by environmental regulations to keep emissions within certain levels. Data recorders can provide timely and accurate readouts of historic emissions data, ensuring that companies stay on the right side of the regulations.

Troubleshooting an HVAC system is made easier with the use of data logging software. Information from recording devices can be downloaded onto a workstation so that a technician can spot problematic trends. Voltage loggers can even pinpoint trouble in the electrical system of an HVAC unit. This becomes even more important when dealing with large systems that have multiple compressors and hundreds of yards of ductwork, where finding one faulty component could be like searching for a needle in a haystack. From the perspective of both time and cost savings, data loggers make it possible to see and solve problems before they become catastrophic.

Modern data loggers are extremely sensitive instruments. They can detect fractional changes in temperature, humidity, pressure and atmospheric composition. In HVAC applications, this level of precision is necessary. Seemingly small changes in one system variable can have sweeping effects.

HVAC systems have come a long way since their original development. Today, they are clean, efficient and effective technologies for maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. Data loggers are an essential piece of the HVAC picture, helping technicians to fix mechanical or electrical issues and keep systems running longer.

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Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

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