Duncan Marwick
May 293 min
Do you know building operations account for over 30% of the global energy demands, nearly 28% of the global energy-related emissions from electricity!
Worldwide, building operations contribute to more than 30% of the total energy consumption, with nearly 28% of global energy-related emissions stemming from electricity usage (18% directly from electricity consumption and space heating). In emission-intensive countries like China, Japan, the US, and the European Union, energy utilisation standards and building management codes have been increasing dramatically since 2022.
According to the International Energy Agency, managing existing buildings, particularly those with complex systems like HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and water/wastewater utilities, is not only energy-intensive but also costly. In which, the HVAC systems consume the highest energy (38%) regardless of its residential(32%) or tertiary(49%) nature.
The operational expenses associated with maintaining these systems can be significant, especially considering the age of many buildings and the advanced technology required to ensure their efficient operation
Accurate pressure monitoring is essential for ensuring energy efficiency, preventing leaks, and minimising operational costs. This is because pressure imbalances can lead to increased energy consumption, equipment wear, and potential system failures, all of which contribute to higher overall operational expenses.
HVAC Systems: Pressure monitoring helps ensure that the airflow and air pressure within the HVAC system are balanced and maintained at optimal levels. This is crucial for efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning throughout the building. Monitoring pressure can also help detect issues such as leaks or blockages in the ductwork, which can affect system performance and indoor air quality.
Water Utilities: In water distribution systems, pressure monitoring is essential for maintaining adequate water pressure throughout the building. Proper pressure ensures that water reaches all parts of the building effectively, including upper floors and remote areas. Monitoring pressure can also help identify leaks or breaks in the water lines, preventing water wastage and property damage.
Wastewater Utilities: Pressure monitoring in wastewater systems helps ensure proper flow and prevent backups or overflows. By monitoring pressure levels at various points in the system, building managers can detect blockages or other issues that may impede the flow of wastewater. This proactive approach helps prevent costly repairs and mitigates the risk of environmental contamination.
For a long time our measurements and maintenance systems in remained with simple pressure gauges or transducers, limiting the capabilities to effectively monitor and analyse the operational inefficiencies throughout the building operations.
Manual Monitoring: Many conventional pressure monitoring devices require manual readings and inspections, which can be time-consuming and prone to human & reading error. Automated systems offer continuous monitoring and data collection, reducing the risk of missed issues or delays in response.
Limited Data Insights: Conventional pressure monitoring methods often provide limited data insights beyond basic pressure readings. They may lack features such as trend analysis consistently across long period of time, predictive maintenance capabilities, or real-time alerts, which can be essential for proactive management and optimisation.
Inability to Detect Early Warning Signs: Conventional monitoring methods may not always detect subtle changes or early warning signs of potential problems. Advanced monitoring technologies can provide more sensitive detection capabilities, allowing for early intervention and preventing costly failures or downtime.
For example, in the competitive world of commercial property management, ensuring optimal HVAC performance is paramount. Imagine a scenario where a leading property manager faces challenges with inefficient airflow monitoring across their smart building portfolio. Uneven temperature distribution and rising energy costs become significant pain points affecting tenant comfort and operational efficiency!
To address these challenges, commercial property management has the option of Ellenex's battery-operated differential pressure sensors, leveraging NB-IoT or LoRaWAN technology.
We offer ruggedised design, making them effective to install in hard to access areas. This also makes maintaining them within complex HVAC systems much simpler. Real-time airflow and temperature monitoring provide valuable insights into system performance, enabling precise control and optimisation.
The implementation of Ellenex's pressure sensors overcomes critical issues related to inaccurate airflow monitoring. By delivering reliable data, Ellenex's solution empowers property managers and building owners to optimise energy usage and address comfort issues effectively in the follow aspects:
HVAC and Air Conditioning Systems
Leakage Monitoring Systems
Air Filter Performance Monitoring
Heat Recovery Systems
Fan and Ventilation System Performance Monitoring
Air Velocity Monitoring
Pressurised Chambers Monitoring
Blower Vacuum Monitoring
Clean Rooms positive pressure indication
Fan pressure indication
Burner and Boiler Monitoring Systems
Ellenex Offerings
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