Air Handling Units (AHUs) are the backbone of modern HVAC systems, ensuring clean, comfortable, and efficient indoor environments. While many professionals are familiar with the basics of AHUs, understanding and mastering AHU controls is a vital step for anyone looking to excel in the HVAC industry.
The iACS Training Academy is here to bridge that gap. Our specialised courses offer in-depth, practical knowledge of AHU controls, empowering HVAC professionals, project managers, and contractors with the skills they need to optimise performance, reduce energy waste, and deliver exceptional results.
In this blog, we’ll explain what AHUs and AHU controls are, why they’re essential, and why the iACS Training Academy is your go-to resource for learning AHU controls.
Table of Contents
- What Is an Air Handling Unit (AHU)?
- Key Components of an AHU
- Benefits of AHUs
- What Are Controls in AHUs?
- Key Functions of AHU Controls
- The Benefits of AHU Controls
- The Growing Popularity of AHU Controls
- Sustainability Benefits of AHU Controls
- What the iACS Training Academy Covers
- Who Is the iACS Training Academy For?
- How We Teach AHU Controls
- Benefits of the iACS Training Academy
- Sign-Up to the iACS Training Academy Today
What Is an Air Handling Unit (AHU)?
An Air Handling Unit (AHU) is a vital component of HVAC systems, responsible for circulating and conditioning air to meet the requirements of indoor environments. AHUs regulate airflow, temperature, humidity, and filtration to maintain a comfortable and healthy atmosphere.
Key Components of an AHU:
- Filters: Remove dust, pollen, and other particulates from incoming air.
- Fans: Circulate air through the HVAC system.
- Coils: Heat or cool the air as needed.
- Dampers: Regulate airflow within the system.
- Sensors: Measure environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.
Benefits of AHUs
1. Enhanced Indoor Air Quality
By filtering contaminants and regulating humidity, AHUs create healthier environments for occupants.
2. Energy Efficiency
Modern AHUs are designed to optimise energy use, especially when combined with advanced controls.
3. Customisation
AHUs can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of different buildings, whether residential, commercial, or industrial.
4. Compliance with Standards
AHUs ensure adherence to air quality and energy efficiency standards, making them indispensable for sectors like healthcare and manufacturing.
What Are Controls in AHUs?
AHU controls refer to the systems and components that manage the operation of an Air Handling Unit. These controls ensure that all parts of the AHU, including fans, dampers, and coils, work in harmony to achieve desired air quality and energy efficiency outcomes.
Key Functions of AHU Controls:
- Regulate airflow and pressure.
- Monitor and control temperature and humidity levels.
- Integrate with Building Management Systems (BMS) for real-time monitoring.
- Optimise energy use through intelligent automation.
The Benefits of AHU Controls
1. Energy Savings
AHU controls reduce energy waste by automating and optimising system performance.
2. Improved Comfort
By precisely regulating indoor conditions, AHU controls enhance occupant comfort.
3. Longer Equipment Lifespan
Proper controls reduce strain on AHU components, minimising wear and tear.
4. Remote Monitoring
With BMS integration, AHU controls allow for remote monitoring and adjustments, improving convenience and efficiency.
The Growing Popularity of AHU Controls
As HVAC systems become smarter and more energy-efficient, the demand for advanced AHU controls is growing. Sectors like healthcare, data centres, and manufacturing are increasingly turning to AHU controls to meet stringent air quality and energy standards.
The adoption of AHU controls is also being driven by the rise of smart buildings, where IoT-enabled systems provide unparalleled insights and automation.
Sustainability Benefits of AHU Controls
AHU controls play a critical role in creating more sustainable HVAC systems by:
- Reducing Carbon Emissions: Energy-efficient controls lower the energy consumption of HVAC systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Supporting Renewable Energy Integration: AHU controls can be configured to work seamlessly with solar, wind, or other renewable energy sources.
- Promoting Resource Efficiency: By extending the lifespan of AHU components, controls help reduce waste and the need for replacements.
- Compliance with Green Certifications: AHU controls support certifications like LEED and BREEAM by meeting energy efficiency and sustainability benchmarks.
What the iACS Training Academy Covers
The iACS Training Academy offers a structured and comprehensive curriculum, covering:
- Introduction to AHUs and Controls
- What AHUs are and their role in HVAC systems.
- The basics of AHU controls and their functions.
- Advanced Components
- In-depth study of PLCs, sensors, actuators, and VFDs.
- Selection criteria for components based on project requirements.
- System Configuration
- Step-by-step guidance on configuring AHU controls for different applications.
- Integration with Building Management Systems.
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
- Common issues in AHU controls and how to resolve them.
- Maintenance strategies to optimise performance and extend system lifespan.
- Sustainability in AHU Controls
- How AHU controls contribute to energy efficiency and net-zero goals.
- Designing HVAC systems for green building compliance.
Who Is the iACS Training Academy For?
The iACS Training Academy is designed for:
- HVAC Engineers: Enhance your technical knowledge of AHU controls.
- Project Managers: Gain insights into system optimisation for large-scale projects.
- Contractors and Installers: Learn how to integrate and maintain AHU controls effectively.
- Facility Managers: Master energy-efficient strategies for managing building systems.
How We Teach AHU Controls
The iACS Training Academy uses a variety of teaching methods to ensure an engaging and effective learning experience:
- Interactive Quizzes: Reinforce learning after each module with quizzes.
- In-Depth Video Tutorials: Step-by-step walkthroughs led by industry experts.
- Case Studies: Real-world examples showcasing successful AHU control implementations.
- Supporting Materials: Access whitepapers, datasheets, and technical guides.
- Hands-On Assignments: Apply your knowledge with practical exercises.
- Whiteboard Explanations: Simplified visuals to explain complex concepts.
Benefits of the iACS Training Academy
- Comprehensive Knowledge: Gain a deep understanding of AHU controls, from basics to advanced applications.
- Practical Skills: Develop hands-on expertise that you can apply immediately in your projects.
- Industry Recognition: Earn a certificate of completion to enhance your professional credentials.
- Flexible Learning: Access course materials anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.
- Expert Support: Learn from experienced instructors who are leaders in the HVAC industry.
Sign-Up to the iACS Training Academy Today
Ready to take your HVAC knowledge to the next level? The iACS Training Academy provides the tools, resources, and expertise you need to master AHU controls and excel in the industry.
Sign up today to unlock your potential and transform your understanding of AHU controls.
Join the iACS Training Academy and become a leader in smarter, more sustainable HVAC solutions.