As well as the Normal built in seven-day time clock function Fujitsu's new VRF wired controller has a number of extra energy saving functions to suit the requirements of any specific application.

For example, when manually turned on, the auto-off/sleep timer can be set for a period of 30-240 minutes before the controller turns off automatically. This is typically used for rooms that are not permanently occupied, such as meeting rooms. This tackles the problem that people are very good at turning equipment on but not so good at turning it off when they leave.

The set temperature auto return feature is designed to reconcile individual preferences with the optimum settings for the overall efficiency of the system. It allows people to change a set temperature, within limits, for a set period of time between 30 and 240 minutes, after which it will automatically return the set temperature to the pre-programed more efficient standard temperature.

Upper and lower temperature limits can be set to prevent users adjusting the controller temperature settings too high or too low. This, together with the auto return timer function, ensures users cannot select temperatures that will increase running costs for long periods of time.

If an even higher level of control is required, the unit's ‘child lock' function can be activated, which prevents any adjustment at all; very useful for public and other areas where tampering with controls could be an issue.

Says Colin Goode, Fujitsu's product and specification manager: "People like to feel they are in control of the temperature in their workplace and will fiddle with air conditioning controllers. Unfortunately this often results in increased running costs when systems are requested to overheat or overcool spaces beyond what the system was designed for, or what the landlord or utility bill payer would like. This new controller is designed specifically to tackle those issues.

"Typically, VRF systems in commercial buildings in the UK are designed for room temperatures of 23°C for summer cooling and 20°C for winter heating. For every 1°C higher (heating) or lower (cooling) than these temperatures the annual running costs would increase by approximately 10%."

Contact details

• FUJITSU GENERAL AIR CONDITIONING (UK) LIMITED

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