How Advanced Thermostats Lower Energy Costs

How Advanced Thermostats Lower Energy Costs

In the hospitality sector, building managers are often faced with the tough task of reducing operation costs without diminishing the quality of the guest experience. One possible strategy? Using smart thermostats to help reduce energy costs consumed by the hundreds, if not thousands, of air conditioning units operating in each room across the building.

Traditionally, HVAC innovations have focused on the actual units, producing generations of high-efficiency AC units. At GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions, we’ve taken energy efficiency one step further by pairing our industry-leading Zoneline PTACs and VTACs with a thermostat capable of providing even more efficient operation.

We recently announced the launch of our new Two-Way Communicating Energy Management Thermostat, (RAK190V) designed for precision control of Zoneline inverter air conditioners. While all Zoneline models can be used with a standard 24-volt AC signal-type thermostat, the best performance and maximum energy savings will result from pairing compatible Zoneline inverter models with this special thermostat.

Which units are right for the Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat?

The Two-Way Energy Management System can be configured for one-way or two-way communication, which means any legacy Zoneline PTAC or VTAC can be paired with it.

  • One-way configuration is fit for use with AZ45 and AZ65 series PTAC units as well as AZ95 and AZ9V series VTACs and AJE through-the-wall units.

  • Two-way configuration is for use with AZ9V inverter models only.

There are ample benefits of one-way communication configuration:

  • The ability to work with six, seven and eight-wire set-ups

  • Occupancy sensing settings

  • Energy savings offsets

  • Two configurable Aux 24VAC outputs to control external items like lighting or fans based on occupancy

  • Built in humidistat for improved sensing and humidity control

The unit also has a sleek, modern white design with a black-cap touch screen and a large, white LED display allowing for easy reading. Guests, especially those in senior living environments, will have little issue adjusting the thermostat for comfort. There is also an auto-dimming feature for nighttime.

However, the best energy savings come into play when the thermostat is configured for two-way communication with inverter models of our Zoneline Ultimate V12 VTAC. This unit offers many benefits that guests love, such as quiet and consistent performance. The addition of a communicable thermostat brings another layer of intelligence to its operation.

4 Benefits of the Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat Paired With the Zoneline UltimateV12

The synergy between the Zoneline Ultimate V12 and the occupancy-sensing Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat creates many benefits for hospitality and senior living spaces.

  1. Precise Temperature Control

The variable speed design of the Zoneline Ultimate V12 system paired with the Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat provides the ultimate control. This unit maintains temperature at slower running speeds, which results in the ultimate sound and energy performance.

  1. Better Dehumidification

The advanced thermostat communication allows for true compressor speed control and adjusts cooling and dehumidification outputs to precisely match room needs.

  1. Energy Savings Through Efficient Makeup Air Cycling

The two-way communicating thermostat allows the cycling of makeup air based on occupancy status. This ensures guests receive the benefits of fresh outdoor air. Meanwhile, it also prevents HVAC units from expending more energy than is required by the occupancy of each room.

  1. Seamless Integration With SmartHQ

The Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat is a wired, non-programmable thermostat with touchpad operation. When set up via five-wire, two-way communication with a connected unit, the thermostat will also work with SmartHQ for WiFi communication (requires SmartHQ Connect module that is sold separately).

“This thermostat is transformative for the hospitality and senior living communities,” said Rob Koller, commercial director at GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions.

Ready to save?

Contact us to learn how to integrate the Two-Way Energy Management Thermostat into your building, so you can elevate your guest experience while reducing operational costs.