Research And Insight

IoT-enabled solutions for advanced system performance

From smart data transmission to smart data analytics, here’s what comes next. 

Today’s homeowners expect more and more of their installations. From innovative technologies that help keep heating costs low to data-enabled insights that ensure long-lasting performance of our domestic systems, the future of HVAC installations is expected to become smarter and more connected.  

For manufacturers, circulator pumps are a crucial component to enable the next generation, of intelligent domestic heating systems. And as the future of our industry is pointing towards IoT-enabled solutions, smart data analytics has become key to ensuring optimal performance in both boilers and heat pumps.  

Smart, built-in features to provide hassle-free system operations 

In future, IoT-enabled pumps will come with built-in features that can collect data on heating systems in real-time. By using smart algorithms, manufacturers can access and regulate variables such as temperature, flow, system head, power, voltage and pump speed to guarantee optimal performance of the system. 

This leads to exciting opportunities that can advance system operations, enable precise fault prediction and provide valuable future insights. Here’s what to expect in future:

Save time during hydronic balancing

For reliable and energy-efficient heating, hydronic balancing is key. This can, however, take up to 4 hours. By making use of IoT-enabled solutions, installers can connect the boiler to an integrated App, which uses precise data points to automatically calculate and adjust the heating system via a unique balancing algorithm. This reduces time spent on balancing for installers and can optimise the system’s performance by up to 25%. 

Smarter self-diagnostics and fault prediction 

A malfunctioning heating system can have multiple reasons. And in many cases, it is hard to tell why a boiler is not working the way it should. This often leads to the pump being exchanged for precaution, causing high service costs for manufacturers while not necessarily solving the problem. 

With data-enabled pumps, manufacturers can integrate automatic self-diagnostics features in their boiler solutions, that report critical information and status reports to the operator. That way, manufacturers can avoid unnecessary replacements and improve commissioning for installers. Early warnings and diagnostics enable them to proactively plan servicing and carry out more precise troubleshooting. This saves valuable time spent prior to and during on-site visits. 

Easy fault identification at a glance:

  • An “Air in media functionality” can detect air in the heater and issue a warning before it becomes noticeable. This maximises comfort to homeowners and avoids excessive resource consumption caused by unbalanced heating systems.
  • Build-up of limescale can cause the heat exchanger to lose performance. That’s why the future pump continuously monitors system conditions and sends an early service call if an issue is detected.
  • In certain conditions, frequent start-stops can lead to lower energy efficiency of the system. Smart, data-enabled heat pumps can detect this and send a request for service.
  • In many households, too high head within the installation can cause resonance and noise. By adjusting the operation mode in an integrated service App, end users can quickly take control and adjust settings accordingly. 

Let’s enter the digital future together  

Advanced communication protocols are paving the way for manufacturers to guarantee more efficient and data-based heating solutions. And now, it’s time to take the next step. By utilising IoT-enabled technologies, manufacturers can build the foundation for more precise and predictive diagnostics, allowing our industry to better maintain and improve heating systems, reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary service costs.  

Contact us if you want to learn more about the commercial terms or to purchase Grundfos pumps for OEM manufacturers.