Conservatory Vent Controllers
Vent Controller FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q What sizes of conservatory are suitable ?
A The size of the space is virtually unlimited, since one controller can control several actuated vents. One consideration is that in a very large space, there might be need for separate temperature control zones, in which case divide the vents into separately controlled areas and use a separate Automatic Vent Controller for each zone.
Q Can the system be employed in places other than a conservatory ?
A Certainly. It would normally be used in an area blessed with natural heating, and there must be adequate ventilation available that can be opened and closed with separate mains/line voltage signals (up to 5 amps). For safety, the vents would need to be inaccessible to people & animals.
Q What type of vents & actuators will it work with ?
A Each vent will have an electric actuator with a separate circuit for open power and close power, with a maximum current demand of 5 amps at 230vac. Opening must be accomplished within 9 seconds (the drive can be adjusted between 3 to 9 seconds), and closing within 11 seconds.
Q Which system is best for me ?
A For automatic control of the air temperature, an EL-VC-AVC002C unit is the heart of the system. This can control one or more vent actuators (specified as above). The optional Rain Sensor can be ordered separately as EL-VC-AVC002R and is wired straight to the Automatic Controller. The Automatic Controller and Rain Sensor are supplied together as EL-VC-AVC002 and this is the standard package. If additional manual controls are wanted in separate locations add EL-VC-AVS001 Manual Switches (this can also replace the Automatic Controller if automatic temperature is not wanted).
Q Where must it be installed ?
A The Automatic Controller should be positioned at a location where the temperature will be controlled, and away from sources of heat (avoid direct sunlight). It must be possible to run cables to this location.
Q And the Rain Sensor ?
A The Rain Sensor is normally fitted on the roof such that it is not sheltered from rain whichever direction the wind is blowing from (so it is not in a “rain shadow”). It must be tilted from horizontal by 15 to 45 degrees (normally the slope of the roof).
Q Can I install it myself ?
A Typically a qualified electrician will be required, at least for the power wiring, but check with your specific local regulations for this type of installation.
Q How do I know if it is working ?
A The Automatic Controller and the Rain Sensor have no moving parts (except the thermostat knob), and electric actuators are very reliable, so the result is a reliable system. However, at any time (unless the Rain Sensor is closing the vents) you can manually open & close the vents to check that all vents are free to operate. If the air is between about 10 and 30 degrees Celsius, you can also adjust the thermostat to cause the vents to open and close.
Q What does it get power from ?
A The system draws power from a regular power supply. Check that you get the correct version for 230 (220/240) or 115 (110/120) volts ac (50/60Hz, single phase). At least 5 amps must be available (actually it depends on the actuator specification, not the control system).
Q What is the energy consumption ?
A For a temperature controlling system, the energy consumption is remarkably small. The control unit consumes just a few watts. The vent actuators are normally consuming no power at all since power is only supplied when they are in the process of opening or closing.
Q Is the product safe ?
A Yes. As long as it is installed correctly, the controller complies with the required safety standards. It should only be used with compliant vent actuators that have also been safely installed.
Q Can I use this system in combination with heating/cooling systems ?
A If there is a separate heating system in the same space it is still a good idea to install an automatic vent controller. Just ensure that the vent controller is set to a higher temperature than the heating, and then it will ensure that the vents are closed when the heating system switches on, and prevent wasted energy.
However, the vent controller will open the vents when it gets too hot and this will be counterproductive if air conditioning is also present.
Q How long will it last ?
A The Automatic Controller and the Rain Sensor have no moving parts (except the thermostat knob), and electric actuators are very reliable, so the entire ventilation system should prove very reliable in service.