Existing Systems

Those with existing heating and cooling systems should not be disillusioned about the likelihood of home automation integration being achievable – most modern-day Smart Home systems can provide a near-equivalent level of functionality via retrofit and this is certainly true of climate control.

A HVAC system by no means needs to be designed around the control software – in general, any arrangement that requires electric intervention for either power or a simple spark is adaptable. Wireless controllers can command radiators without alteration to the pipework and even electric heaters can be incorporated into a Smart Home solution with the intervention of plug-in modules.

Working in tandem with heating and hot water systems, existing air conditioning units can be controlled in the same way – the home automation technology simply issues preset operation commands and HVAC is operational! Remember to think about programmed usage carefully to ensure your system is energy efficient.

Energy Efficiency

The average professional family spends around £2000 on energy each year – heating and cooling accounts for about half of that. This figure can be reduced considerably by implementing Smart Home technology for climate control, especially if a sensible approach is taken when programmes and schedules are formulated. Running air conditioning or heating systems house-wide 24 hours a day will not save energy!