Abstract
Misperception of the Benefits of Automatic HVAC Control Systems Challenges Sensor
Manufacturers
Sensor manufacturers face a huge difficulty in convincing end users of the benefits of using
intelligent heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) controls. Launching a comprehensive
educational campaign is necessary to promote technology expansion. However, communicating technical
as well as installation details across all end-user segments -- distinct from each other in terms of
needs and decision making -- can make mass marketing a difficult process. To enhance market
penetration, manufacturers will have to educate potential users about the functionality, the
measurement parameters, transmission of information from these sensors, and finally the control
loop. This is essential, since sensors installed incorrectly may not be able to achieve either
improved indoor air quality or energy savings, which in turn, could affect the future customer base.
This Frost & Sullivan research service is a valuable resource for suppliers looking to enter
or expand within the North American sensor market for HVAC applications. It provides critical market
intelligence and focused research on opportunities that help participants in developing appropriate
strategies. The study includes a market share breakdown of major participants for each product
segment as well as detailed forecasts for individual products.
Lack of Appropriate Penetration in Key Market Segments Restrains Market
Although new HVAC applications continue to surface, the volumes of sensors going into, for
instance, residential applications remain low. This indicates a large degree of under-utilization of
the product among end users. "While there are approximately 1.7 million residential units in
the United States, the number of houses supporting an automated HVAC system is negligible,"
notes the analyst of this research service. "If sensors are able to penetrate even a small
percentage of this number, the total market revenue could grow substantially."
The challenge, therefore, is for sensor manufacturers to provide affordable solutions that will
drive their acceptance in residential applications as well as help them become a standard feature in
automobiles, the largest consumers of sensors for HVAC applications. Although many market
participants are attempting to manufacture cheaper sensors for the key market segments, the impact
of this challenge is likely to remain high throughout the forecast period.
Growth in Non-residential Construction Business and Automotive Applications Drives Demand
One of the primary driving forces of the sensors market in HVAC applications is the growth in the
non-residential construction business. Building automation has become dynamic with engineers and
facility managers looking to manage and optimize the control systems using feedback from sensors.
Traditional mechanical systems are giving way to electronic controls that require intelligent
sensors for improved accuracy and system performance. As new construction expands in North America,
the unit shipments of HVAC units are likely to increase, benefiting the sensor market significantly.
Simultaneously, the growing demand for automotive climate control (ACC) units in automobiles is
helping boost the market. Sophisticated air-conditioning systems have become a staple feature of
almost all vehicles today. Although the costs of the sensors that are used in automotive sub
assemblies are relatively low, the sheer volumes generated by these applications are helping push
revenue growth upwards.
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