April 22, 2015: EcoNet’s Wireless HVAC Vent Receives SmartThings Approval
Vents Provide Convenient, Improved HVAC Comfort and Efficiency
CLEARWATER, Fla. — EcoNet Controls announced it has received “Works with SmartThings” approval for its EV100 series of Z-Wave wireless HVAC vents. SmartThings, a Samsung company, is building an open platform for smart homes and the consumer Internet of Things. EcoNet said a basic configuration of its wireless vents and a SmartThings controller provides convenient, improved HVAC comfort and efficiency to the standard home.
Although the EV100 is certified by the Z-Wave Alliance, EcoNet said the product does not currently fit into any of the standard device categories. Because of this, changes were required in the way it communicates with the SmartThings controller. As an official partner, EcoNet worked closely with SmartThings in creating a custom driver for the EV100. The EV100 works with most standard Z-Wave controllers but it works especially well with SmartThings. A custom vent graphic was added to the list of icons and a standard “Virtual Thermostat” application can directly control the vent based on room temperature. Other features include a battery level indicator and a history of activity when the vent was opened, closed, or set somewhere in between.
The simplest way to control the EV100 vents to reduce energy cost is a scheduling configuration that opens and closes the vents based on the family’s standard routines. An example would be to close the bedroom vents during the day when the family is out at school and work, and open them again a couple hours before bedtime. The vents can also be automatically controlled, with added sensors, based on individual room temperature or occupancy. Pre-configured kits are available that include three or more vents, the SmartThings HUB/App, along with the required temperature and occupancy sensors.
EcoNet’s HVAC vents are direct replacements for vents in the standard North American home that uses a forced air system. The vents are available in several sizes and styles. Installation and setup is simple and takes only a few minutes, said the company, and a properly configured system can reduce HVAC cost from 10 to 20 percent. Any smartphone, tablet, or computer can be used to set up, control, and manage the opening and closing of the vents, from anywhere Internet access is available.
For more information, visit www.econetcontrols.com.
Publication date: 4/20/2015
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