By Anne Fonda
What can HVAC sensors keep track of? A lot, depending on your system. There are several types of sensor technologies, some of which are in a standard thermostat or programmable thermostat. Others are part of a more sophisticated HVAC system, such as an air purification system or HVAC zoning system.
The most basic thermostat sensor is the temperature sensor. Most thermostats have a built-in temperature sensor to provide accurate and reliable temperature regulation. The thermostat provides temperature control by signaling the appropriate HVAC component to start heating or cooling. More advanced systems may also have a remote temperature sensor (or more than one) or a temperature and humidity sensor.
Many programmable thermostats have a humidity sensor, and nearly all smart thermostats do. They communicate with other system components to regulate humidity. This allows you to achieve better humidity control with your air conditioning or a whole-house dehumidifier or humidifier.
Indoor air quality sensors can measure particulate matter (PM), CO2, and VOCs, as well as humidity and temperature. These IAQ sensors can communicate via a compatible thermostat with other HVAC components such as a whole-house ventilator or dehumidifier to improve indoor air quality.
Not all HVAC systems have pressure sensors. Usually, they are only in the more advanced systems such as zoned systems or communicating systems. These pressure sensors can measure airflow and alert you to change your filter, or they can measure refrigerant pressure and alert you when the system needs to be charged. They can send alerts via a programmable thermostat that it’s time to change the air filter, among other things.
Wired or wireless room sensors, also known as zone sensors, are perfect for monitoring temperature and humidity in an office, bedroom, or other rooms in the house. Each wired or wireless temperature sensor sends information to the Trane Link Smart Thermostat and controller.
Your smart thermostat and controller can automatically adjust room temperature and humidity levels based on your preferences. You can also monitor what’s going on with the Trane Home App.
Some indoor units available as part of our ductless HVAC systems also have the revolutionary 3D i-see Sensor® in addition to all the above sensors. The sensor scans the room every 3 minutes to produce a thermal profile with heat signatures indicating where in the room the occupants are, or if the room is empty.
Based on the thermal profile, the system can redirect airflow or enter energy-saving mode when the room is unoccupied.
HVAC sensors give you enhanced comfort, optimized HVAC systems operation, and better indoor air quality. With the Trane Home App and a smart thermostat, you also gain access to your system anytime, anywhere.
Maintenance and calibration of your HVAC sensors will lead to long-term reliability. If you allow remote diagnostics, your dealer can monitor your system remotely and catch a calibration issue before it becomes a large problem. They can detect issues with your smart thermostat, remote room sensors, and heating and cooling units.
If they think they can fix the issue remotely, you can grant them one-time remote access. This can save both you and the dealer time and money. To protect your investment in your home’s HVAC system, we recommend a spring AC tuneup and a fall furnace tuneup.
Contact your local Trane dealer for product recommendations for optimal home comfort.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by David Lothe Product Manager, Communications and Accessories, System Controls
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