Heating and cooling system problems can arise when least expected. In the past, physically checking commercial HVAC-R applications to measure temperatures and confirm optimal performance was the only way to prevent critical equipment failures. Today, it is much easier to maintain constant visibility in order to ensure overall performance health through remote monitoring.
System inefficiency, unpredictable outages and complicated user settings can have a severe economic impact on business owners and also cause frustration among their staff. A reliable commercial HVAC-R system is a paramount part of business operations, however, insufficient maintenance intervals combined with poor operational practices can impair the performance of even the best HVAC-R system. A business facility that comes with the very best in technological advancement and is complemented with expert remote monitoring support can be invaluable and is generally recommended by facility managers, investors, designers and installers of commercial applications.
What is Remote Monitoring?
Remote monitoring works by connecting with existing and operating commercial HVAC-R installations via a cloud service to access remotely collected data that can provide insights into optimising energy performance and operation.
Intelligent remote monitoring tools allow load profiles, usage patterns and operating conditions to be followed closely; it can also signal warnings when potential issues arise, from equipment failure to power loss, hotspots and beyond.
A dedicated centre of competence, such as the Daikin European Remote Monitoring Center (ERMC) located in Bratislava, Slovakia, connects via a cloud service to existing Air Handling Units [AHU], VRV systems and Chiller systems all over the world to monitor performance and operational data.
This data becomes the basis for optimisation and failure prevention as it is turned into periodical or ad hoc reports that provide invaluable insights into energy usage and optimisation.
What can be achieved through continuous monitoring and data analysis?
- Reduced electricity costs and lower energy consumption through strategic efficiency advice and bespoke solutions.
- Otherwise expensive issues, such as breakdowns, are circumvented before they arise through early fault warning alerts that enable service measures to be initiated.
- Optimised HVAC-R system performance with the analysis of real-time data and review of usage patterns with periodic and historical data analysis.
- Implementation of user comfort-enhancing measures through the planning and check of energy targets.
How is a remotely monitored system connected?
Web-based remote monitoring and control for HVAC-R systems that can manage the energy consumption of several buildings at once may sound complicated, but because there is no need to install any special software and everything is accessible using a standard browser, whether, via a computer or a mobile device, it has never been easier.
The connection of a HVAC-R system to a cloud is achieved through a mobile network and a router. In most cases, this is taken care of for you by the remote monitoring provider.
Is data collected securely?
Safeguarding customer data privacy in addition to transporting and storing your data securely must be the number one priority for any remote monitoring system, therefore an investment should be made in a cloud service that meets the highest and most rigorous security standards.
What equipment can be connected to a remote monitoring service?
Cloud-based remote monitoring and control solutions are ideal for a variety of commercial applications such as Chillers, Air Handling Units and VRV systems. Daikin offers efficient and reliable water-cooled and air-cooled chillers as well as air handling units and fan coil units for any large or small application.
Both indoor & outdoor Air Handling Units (AHU) can be connected to remote monitoring systems, significantly optimising fresh air circulation through any building.
Daikin’s outdoor VRV and other selected DX Equipment are also eligible for continuous remote monitoring. Original Daikin VRV systems provide an innovative total climate solution for any large or small building delivering comfort and energy savings.
You can find out more about Daikin’s Remote Monitoring Service here.