The Many Types Of HVAC Sensors – And Why They’re All Important

In HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), sensors are electronic devices that measure a property and report the measurement. Often the measurements they provide are a signal to a control system that needs attention or adjustment. A sensor is just a device that measures something about the world; there is nothing special about it — its value comes from what it senses. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of sensors used in HVAC systems:

Smart home dashboard in order to control home appliances. Hand holding modern tablet with dashboard displaying charts.

Different Sensors in HVAC

  • Thermistor: A thermistor is a variation of resistors. It is a resistor whose resistance depends on temperature. A thermistor is a device that is used to measure temperature. A thermistor can be used as a sensor for temperature measurement.
  • Thermocouple: Thermocouples are devices that are used to measure temperature. Thermocouples are used to measure temperature. Temperature can be measured by using thermocouples. This sensor is used in many applications to measure the temperature of soil, the air temperature, etc. This sensor finds application in HVAC systems, in process control applications, and in medical applications.
  • Thermopile: Thermopiles are sensors used to measure the temperature. The temperature can be measured by using thermopiles. The thermopile sensor is used to measure the temperature of soil. Thermopile is used in soil temperature sensors. This sensor finds application in HVAC systems and in process control applications.

Importance of A Sensor

An excessive amount of moisture in the indoor environment is not only uncomfortable, but can also cause damage to the building itself. Poor air quality can lead to health problems for building occupants. HVAC equipment itself can suffer from too much moisture in the air. The air conditioner’s dehumidifier may be forced to run constantly, or even full time, which will lead to an early breakdown of the equipment. The result could be poor indoor air quality, along with an increased energy bill. The indoor air quality sensor’s job is to measure the humidity in the air. When the level gets too high, the sensor will send a signal to the building’s HVAC system to turn on the dehumidifier. If the sensor is faulty, or the sensor is missing, there will be no action taken to correct the problem.

The amount of moisture in the air can greatly affect the indoor air quality. If there is too much moisture in the air, the indoor air quality will suffer. The sensor will allow the HVAC system to correct the problem by turning on the dehumidifier. Keeping the air quality at the right level will keep the building occupants healthy and comfortable.