What is Demand Control Ventilation?
Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) is a ventilation control strategy that optimizes the performance of the HVAC unit in a facility. The HVAC units typically consume 30%-50% of a building's energy consumption and thus the impact they have on the environment is enormous. In addition to the reduction of a building's environmental impact, improving the performance of the HVAC unit can also generate significant energy savings for building owners and companies alike.
How does it work?
Demand controlled ventilation adjusts ventilation rates based on actual occupancy at any given time instead of at a fixed rate for full occupancy. By monitoring carbon dioxide levels, the amount of people inside can be determined, which in turn signals the HVAC system to adjust the flow of outside air into the facility.
Why Green DCV?
Traditional DCV systems utilize a large number of sensors that are oftentimes poorly constructed, thereby requiring calibration or replacement every couple of years. Green DCV utilizes only one high quality sensor that requires calibration only after 15 years, which significantly reduces the cost of maintenance. The system is controlled by a centralized monitoring system, which monitors not only CO2 levels, but non-human generated pollutants, which ensures efficient ventilation. Green DCV is also much easier to install into any HVAC system, unlike traditional DCV, resulting in minimal HVAC downtime.
Benefits of Green DCV
- Reduced energy usage: Green DCV reduces the amount of excessive outside air that needs to be cooled and/or dehumidified. A typical business may reduce air conditioning energy costs by 10 percent or more a year depending on the varying occupancy.
- Increased system efficiency: By eliminating over-abundant fresh air, Green DCV helps your HVAC equipment operate more efficiently and last longer.
- Ensures proper indoor air quality: Green DCV will comply with fresh air requirements more efficiently than your HVAC system's fixed ventilation rate.
Federal, State, and Local agencies offer incentives which will vary based on your building type and square footage of air conditioned space. Call us or speak to your representatives to find out how you can tap into available funds to implement Green DCV into your building.
