Explaining Recommended Minimum Requirements for AHU Control

19 February 2026

For expert guidance on optimising Air Handling Unit (AHU) control systems, contact Varming Consulting Engineers. Explaining recommended minimum requirements for AHU control is crucial for achieving peak performance and energy efficiency in your HVAC systems. Our team of consulting engineers and design consultants will help ensure your building services meet the highest standards.

Importance of AHU Control in Building Services

AHUs play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and comfort by regulating temperature, humidity, and airflow. Effective AHU control systems must meet specific performance standards to function efficiently. Explaining recommended minimum requirements for AHU control involves addressing several key factors that influence the system’s effectiveness.

Key considerations include integrating temperature sensors, managing humidity, and controlling airflow. Placement of temperature sensors strategically to provide accurate readings and ensure precise heating and cooling control. Humidity controls maintain optimal indoor moisture levels, affecting both comfort and health. Proper airflow management ensures even and consistent air distribution throughout the building.

Key Recommendations for AHU Control Systems

  • Sensor Placement and Calibration: Accurate sensor placement and regular calibration are crucial for effective AHU control. Install sensors where they can provide representative measurements of air conditions. Regularly calibrate sensors to ensure they deliver accurate readings, which is vital for correct system function.
  • Differential Pressure Switches (DPS): are used to monitor fans and filters within the AHU. They detect the pressure difference across components to confirm proper operation and identify when filters are clogged or fans have failed. They primarily focused on optimising performance, reducing energy consumption, and enabling predictive maintenance. By ensuring filters are changed only, when necessary, the system runs at optimal efficiency, reducing the energy load on the fan.
  • Integration with Building Management Systems: Integrate AHU control systems with building management systems (BMS) to allow centralised monitoring and control. This integration helps optimise energy use and simplifies managing multiple AHUs within a building. Design consultants should ensure compatibility between the control system and existing BMS infrastructure to maximise efficiency.
  • Energy Efficiency Measures: Implement energy efficiency measures as a key aspect of AHU control. Use variable speed drives (VSDs) for fans and pumps to adjust speed based on demand, reducing energy consumption. Additionally, incorporate economisers that use outside air when conditions permit to enhance energy savings.
  • Maintenance and Monitoring: Regular maintenance and monitoring are essential to keep AHU control systems functioning optimally. Perform routine checks to identify and address issues before they impact system performance. Monitoring tools provide real-time data on system performance, enabling proactive adjustments and repairs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, explaining recommended minimum requirements for AHU control involves a comprehensive approach to system design and management. Consulting engineers and M&E engineering professionals should focus on key aspects such as sensor accuracy, system integration, energy efficiency, and ongoing maintenance. By adhering to these recommendations, design consultants can ensure AHUs operate efficiently, contributing to the overall success of building services projects.

For further assistance in enhancing your AHU control systems, contact Varming Consulting Engineers. Our team is ready to provide expert support and ensure your building services are optimally designed and maintained. Let us help you achieve energy efficiency and peak performance in your HVAC systems.