Might a Motion-Activated HVAC System Be a Good Option?

If you want to save energy, it’s important that your HVAC system only runs when it needs to. If you’re not around, you’re just paying to heat or cool an empty house. There are a number of ways to prevent this, but one of the most advanced options is a motion-activated HVAC system. Here’s how they work and how to decide if they’re right for you.

How They Work

Motion sensors throughout the house can tell when you enter or leave a certain area. They then signal to your HVAC system to turn on when you’re there or turn off when motion is no longer detected. To work properly, it needs to be connected to a zoning system. That way, if you leave one room and go to another, the conditioned air follows you automatically while empty rooms remain dormant.

More advanced models can even sense how many people are in the room and adjust accordingly. More people mean more heat, so the amount of air required will be different when the entire family is in the living room together than it is when one person is there alone.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage to motion-activated HVAC is saving energy. It’s also more convenient, adjusting to your needs automatically in real time rather than needing to be programmed. Furthermore, by running for less time, it reduces wear on your system, allowing it to last longer and need fewer repairs.

There are, however, a few drawbacks. If you have pets, this might not be the best option. Indoor pets need HVAC, too, but if they travel back and forth from room to room, then your system may end up running longer rather than shorter. Additionally, if the system turns on when you enter the room, it can take a few minutes to come up to temperature, especially if the house has been empty all day and you’re just getting home.

To learn more about how a motion-activated HVAC could benefit you, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We help Lorain, Elyria, and Oberlin save energy and stay comfortable.