Use of Sensors in HVAC Definitely on the Rise

By Consulting Specifying Engineer Staff May 2, 2006

Opportunities for sensors in HVAC applications in North America are on the rise, driven primarily by the rapid growth of non-residential construction and increasing concerns about indoor air quality.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan , “North American Sensor Opportunities in HVAC Applications,” reveals that the total sensor market for HVAC applications generated revenue of $302.2 million in 2004 and is expected to reach $692.8 million in 2011.

Researchers suggest the statistics suggest a continuation of the trend toward sophisticated building automation, with engineers and facility managers looking to manage and optimize the control systems using feedback from sensors. Conventional mechanical systems are increasingly being replaced by electronic controls that require intelligent sensors for better accuracy and system performance.

“The impact of the new commercial construction growth rates on the overall building automation market revenue is expected to drive the sensor market,” notes Frost & Sullivan Industry Research Analyst Dr. Rajender Thusu. “As the number of new constructions increases, so will the unit demand for electronic controls over the course of the forecast period.”