Berkshire, United Kingdom, 31 October 2018: The impact of emerging technologies, namely Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), on the HVACR sector, is undeniable, said Saziye Dickson, Senior Market Research Consultant, Building Services Research & Information Association (BSRIA), adding that these platforms will eventually transform the industry as we know it today. “Data collected from HVACR appliances and other building systems can be used to analyse the performance of the equipment and to optimise it, for example by identifying faults, and eventually predicting them, by improving energy efficiency and comfort,” she said. “Over time AI will become increasingly sophisticated in its capabilities, though it is important to remember that true AI requires not just data and analytical capabilities but also a deep understanding of the subject matter, in this case buildings, their structure and their uses, which takes time to build-up and requires trained staff to use effectively.”

Dickson is quick to point out an important caveat, however, which is that the data and analysis generated will always be of limited value, unless the HVACR system is also capable of responding in a suitably granular and nuanced way. “Regular monitoring and analysis also helps in verifying whether the building, as commissioned and as managed over a period of time, is actually meeting the targets set at the design stage and, if not, suggesting the necessary actions to remedy the situation,” she added.

Dickson emphasised that contractors and consultants need to not only have a thorough understanding of the technologies, they also need to appreciate how to marry this to the client’s priorities and needs. She added, “This includes constructing a robust and credible ROI up-front, which demonstrates the payback for the initial investment.”