Temperature Sensors measure the amount of heat or coldness detected in a given space, like an apartment. These sensors collect the temperature readings of the apartment and send information to an energy management controller in your building. That information is then displayed on the physical device or via online software allowing property owners or managers to interact with the data and make changes if necessary, such as a call for heat or bypass the boiler from running. These sensors are very important to your energy management system; with the objective of creating energy efficiency, reducing operating cost and increasing tenant comfort.
These energy management system sensors are available in two options: Wired and wireless. Both wired and wireless sensor monitoring have pros and cons. Understanding these benefits and drawbacks will help you make an informed decision when considering which type of sensors is best for your building.
Wired Sensors
The advantage of the wired sensor is the device is directly connected to your energy management controller which means there is no interference with the signal and results are faster and more reliable. There is no need for specialized batteries or the use of other devices (receiver, repeaters) to “carry” a signal to your controller.
However, the labor and cost for installing a wired sensor environment can be quite expensive and difficult; but that also depends on the number of sensors and the area being monitored. Another disadvantage to wired sensors is if the wire is cut for any reason the sensor is useless and must be repaired. This can throw off your sensor readings and cost you time and money.
Wireless Sensors
One of the biggest advantages of using wireless sensors technology is the ability to place them throughout your building without running wires through walls, floors, ceilings, or the exterior of the building, which by the way looks terrible.
Installing wireless sensors does not require any drilling, wiring, or structural building changes. That means reduced installation costs, less equipment overhead and faster deployment, which saves time and money.
A disadvantage to a wireless sensor is the distance the data needs to be transmitted and any structural barriers reducing the strength of the signal transmission. Also weak, or intermittent Wi-Fi will affect the wireless sensor accuracy.
Nevertheless, it is obvious that wireless technology is still the better option. Our clients prefer the wireless sensors in their buildings due to the substantial number of apartments needing to be monitored.
If you considering an energy management system and not sure what kind of temperature sensor to use, please call us at 845-471-3333 or 844-EMC-2020 and we can assess your building and help you make the right choice.