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Control Mechanisms and User Experience
Mechanical Regulators vs Remote Controls
The older ceiling fan models offer limited participant engagement. Using dial knobs and pull chain regulators provide an experiential engagement where spectators may become annoyed if the fan becomes uncomfortably hot. Remote controlled ceiling fans provide enhanced participant engagement as multiple speed settings and adjustments can be made. This is especially important for large meetings and office settings where people may be entering and leaving for extended periods. Mechanically controlled fans have longer useful lives since less motivational mechanical engagement occurs. Less maintenance is needed, which is important for tall and vaulted ceiling fans where the fans may need to be adjusted once tenant engagement decreases.
Responsiveness, Speed Granularity, and Accessibility for Commercial Spaces
From a user’s standpoint, a remote system that works seamlessly turns on and off within half a second as opposed to a user-operated mechanical switch that generally has a far more noticeable delay. This instantaneous response is especially important for balancing air flows in high turnover areas, like retailers during peak shopping times. In addition to this, fans can adjust their speed in increments between 1% and 5%. This means operators can really fine-tune their response to temperature fluctuations. This also means fans will not waste energy and people will remain comfortable for longer. In addition, from a user’s standpoint, wall-mounted and app-controlled fans allow for real-time adjustments to be made from anywhere in the vicinity. This consideration is important for individuals with mobility impairments and means that users will not have to disrupt the environment by installing new control devices. The same principle also applies to forgo physical barriers that would otherwise be imposed by control devices. The use of programmable preset control settings allows the environment to naturally respond to and follow the behaviors of its occupants.
Energy Efficiency & Total Operational Cost
Remote Control Fan BLDC Motor Advantage: 40 - 60% Consumes Less Energy
Brushless DC motors are now standard in remote control fans, as they are shown to consume 40-60% less energy than older models with AC motors. Energy efficiency studies point to the electronic commutation system as a reason for their higher efficiency, as they eliminate the friction losses associated with older systems. In addition, electronic systems are able to adjust the speed to the needs of the system at any time. In a business where fans are on for 12 hours (or more) a day, this saves a great deal. BLDC motors are typically rated at 50 watts, while AC motors are at 100 watts. This means the BLDC fan uses half as much energy and, based on average US electricity costs, a 50 watt motor saves about $30 in electricity each year. Now, multiply that by 200 in a facility, and maintenance managers can save over $5,000 annually by switching the old motors out for new BLDC fans. This style of ROI speaks almost for itself - catching the eye of budget hawks while also meeting green goals of the business.
REST API Facility Managers: Standby Consumption, Timer Automation, and ROI Timeline
With each technological advancement, the efficiency of BLDC motors greatly increases, and the new added smart features are game changers. An example of this is standby power consumption. Traditional fan systems guzzle power from 3 to 5 watts even when the fan is not running. Newer fan systems have achieved what is known as zero-watt standby mode. Phantom loads are now eliminated, which, in some studies, are responsible for 10% of the energy consumption in commercial buildings. The majority of commercial buildings now have upgradeable timers in which they ‘turn off’ their fan systems after normal hours of operation. Additionally, many systems are able to be set to ‘turn on’ and ‘turn off’ at different intervals throughout the day, reducing unnecessary operation periods. These are all factors in determining how quickly the money saved on energy + BLDC technology will be received as a return on investment. Facility managers typically have a return on investment due to energy savings from 18 to 24 months. Additionally, from a maintenance standpoint, the automation and reduced load due to cycling on and off will reduce the strain on the motors and will typically prolong the life of the motors by 30 to 40 percent. This results in fewer breakdowns, and helps to lower maintenance costs for operators of the buildings.
Smart Integration and Scalable Deployment
Multi Unit Sites Simplified with App Management, Voice Control, and Centralized Commands
Smart remote control fans are now being incorporated in many commercial buildings. Centralized control systems allow facility managers to control and adjust fan speeds, airflow direction and schedules for several hundred devices on one screen. Many remote control fans also provide voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easier for staff working in warehouses and reception areas. Smart fans also integrate with building technology to detect motion. Smart fans promote occupancy airflow on a more responsive basis. Earlier adopters reported 30% faster responses on heating and cooling systems in taller buildings. Smart remote control fans systems also require no alteration to operational processes and can be installed with no additional wiring.
Building Design Flexibility & Integrating Building Management Systems for New Installations
Today's remote control fans look as good as they perform. They come in multiple finishes, including matte black, brushed nickel, and even wood veneer to match corporate cabinetry. They look great in corporate reception areas, fashion boutiques, and hotels. However, the real advantage is the ability to integrate with other systems/platforms via BACnet and MQTT. Under these standards, fans can be controlled as part of a building management system. If CO2 levels in a meeting room exceed the set standard or the temperature in the room changes, the BMS can instruct the fans to increase or decrease the number of room hot/cold air adjustments to maintain thermal comfort. Facilities Management simplifies the process by allowing the control of everything – lighting, temperature, security, etc. – from a single portal. If Building Management Systems (BMS) offer future proofing, why shouldn't remote fans offer the same?
FAQ
What is the difference between remote control ceiling fans and mechanical regulators?
Ceiling fans with remote controls enable more precise settings (usually 6 to 10 speed options) compared to mechanical regulators which offer 3-5 speed options. This helps in controlling the temperature better which also reduces physical contact to the fan and the parts of the fan will last longer.
How are remote control ceiling fans more energy efficient?
Most remote control ceiling fans use Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors that are 40-60% more efficient than the traditional motors used in fans. Additionally, remote control ceiling fans have features such as zero-watt standby mode and programmable timers which also reduce energy usage.
What are the smart capabilities of modern remote control ceiling fans?
Most modern remote control ceiling fans come with smartphone apps, voice control, and remote management. They also use building management systems with BACnet, and MQTT which gives them more automation options.