Unlock Savings with SoCalREN’s HVAC Incentives | Part 1 Accessories and Controls
Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) is offering incentives for HVAC equipment through the Streamlined Savings Pathway Program. Public agencies can take advantage of these incentives, which will help you streamline your operations and maintenance while saving energy and money.
Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) for single-zone HVAC systems is a strategy that adjusts the amount of outdoor air brought into a space based on the current occupancy levels.
These sensors measure the CO2 concentration in the air. Higher CO2 levels indicate more occupants. Based on the readings, the system increases or decreases the amount of outdoor air brought in.
Reducing the amount of outdoor air that needs to be heated or cooled when occupancy is low can significantly reduce energy consumption. This is especially beneficial in spaces that experience variable occupancy, such as conference rooms or auditoriums1.
A Variable-Speed Drive (VSD) is a technology that allows the pump to operate at varying speeds rather than a constant speed. This adjustment is based on the cooling demand, which fluctuates throughout the day.
The VSD adjusts the speed of the condenser water pump based on the cooling load. When the cooling demand is low, the pump operates at a lower speed, and when the demand is high, the pump speeds up. Sensors monitor parameters such as temperature and pressure, providing feedback to the VSD to optimize the pump’s speed.
By operating at lower speeds during periods of low demand, the pump consumes less electricity. This can lead to significant energy savings, as pumps consume much energy in HVAC systems1. Operating at variable speeds reduces wear and tear on the pump, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs3.
An HVAC Occupancy Sensor detects the presence of people in a room and adjusts the HVAC system accordingly.
The sensor detects occupancy using passive infrared (PIR), ultrasonic, or microwave technologies. When the room is occupied, the sensor signals the HVAC system to maintain comfortable temperature and airflow settings. When the room is unoccupied, the sensor can signal the HVAC system to reduce heating, cooling, and ventilation, thereby saving energy.
These sensors prevent energy wastage by adjusting the HVAC settings based on occupancy. Operating the HVAC system only when necessary reduces wear and tear, extending the equipment's lifespan2.
A Cogged V-Belt for HVAC fans is designed with notches or cogs on the inner surface. These cogs provide greater flexibility and reduce bending resistance as the belt travels around pulleys. This design offers several advantages over standard V-belts, particularly regarding energy efficiency and performance.
The notches allow the belt to bend more easily around smaller pulleys, reducing the energy lost to bending resistance. The design helps dissipate heat more effectively, improving the belt’s lifespan and efficiency1.
By reducing the energy lost to bending resistance, cogged V-belts improve the overall efficiency of the HVAC system. Less energy is required to drive the fan, leading to lower energy consumption1. The improved efficiency and reduced heat buildup can extend the lifespan of both the belts and the HVAC equipment, reducing maintenance and replacement costs1
A Software-Controlled Switched Reluctance Motor (SRM) is an advanced electric motor that integrates a switched reluctance motor with a programmable control system. This combination allows precise control over the motor’s operation, enhancing efficiency and performance.
A Switched Reluctance Motor operates by switching the magnetic reluctance in the motor’s stator and rotor. Unlike traditional motors, it does not rely on permanent magnets or rotor windings, making it simpler and more robust1. The motor has a built-in microprocessor and sensors that monitor speed, torque, and temperature. This allows for real-time adjustments to optimize performance and efficiency2.
An Evaporative Pre-Cooler System is a technology that cools the incoming air before it enters the HVAC system. This is achieved by using evaporation to lower the air's temperature, which in turn reduces the load on the HVAC system.
The system uses water to cool the air. As the air passes through a wetted medium, the water evaporates, absorbing heat from the air and lowering its temperature. This cooled air is then directed into the HVAC system, reducing the temperature of the air entering the condenser coils.
By pre-cooling the air, the HVAC system must work less to achieve the desired indoor temperature. This can lead to significant energy savings, especially during peak summer conditions2.
Photo Citing: HVAC Measures. 2024 Abbreviated Deemed Measures List, The SoCalREN, 2024. https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:b211007f-c90d-4b24-a58c-c18f873ab9e3. PDF Download.