Motion sensors, energy efficiency also in ventilation

Motion sensors have become one of the most well-known elements in the search for greater energy efficiency, whether at home or in work environments. Also in public places. Their use automates processes that improve the use of our resources. The automatic ventilation of a room or the lighting of a room can be controlled by these devices.

These presence detectors are one of the most widespread automated mechanisms in the home. The energy savings that can be achieved with them are truly remarkable. Historically, they began to be used in alarm systems, but it has been in home automation where they have found a better place to save our resources.

We are used to seeing them in public places to turn lights on and off, but they are more widespread in homes than one might think. Moreover, they not only serve to save light but can also ventilate a closed space automatically.

Motion sensors in ventilation

For better efficient ventilation, motion sensors can be very useful in our bathroom by activating bathroom extractors. These fans are one of the best solutions to eliminate humidity from our bathrooms. And also to reduce unpleasant odors.

However, how do we automatically turn on a bathroom extractor? Normally, the most common solution is for it to be activated by a switch along with the light button. Thus, the fan will be running while the light in the bathroom is on.

While it is a good solution, it is considered that the option that activates the bathroom extractors through motion sensors is much more precise. These are activated when a person is in the place to be ventilated, having several benefits:

1. It does not depend on a switch. Neither an autonomous one just to turn on the fan nor is it connected to the light switch. If natural light enters the bathroom from outside or it is bright due to its construction in the home or work environment, the extractor can start operating even if no button has been pressed as it does not require electric light.
2. The time that the extractor will be running can be regulated to remain active for a customizable period of time, even if the person has left the room.

Motion sensors in ventilation can also be connected to air conditioning systems. In these cases, they can be useful in public areas -for example, in receptions or offices- to activate only when someone is in that room.

Types of motion sensors and their uses

Motion sensors are different from light detectors, which serve to open windows in home automation installations. While they can be part of the same system, they have different operating mechanisms.

Presence or motion detectors are devices connected to the power supply that will detect whether someone is in the place using infrared. When someone crosses the infrared beam, for example, or when there is a temperature change, the sensor will be activated. In the case of temperature, it is a good option for air conditioning equipment. How are these sensors regulated?

1. The range of meters can be regulated so that it does not interfere in places where it is not needed. For example, so that it only covers the space of the entrance door to a room.
2. They incorporate a timer to determine, at the user’s discretion, how long the system to which they are connected should operate before turning off. It is the best option to gain energy efficiency and not have to think about turning on or off equipment.
3. In some cases, it is also possible to modulate the entry of light. So we can determine whether they turn on or not during the night.

It is also important to determine where the motion sensors will be installed. First, they should be protected from humidity and also from sunlight. Ideally, a protection should be added to the sensor if they are outdoors -to protect from water or sun- and they are usually placed high on the ceiling.