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Why Supply Voltage & Nominal Voltage Matter in HVAC Controls & BAS
1. Controller & Actuator Performance
Fluctuating supply voltage can cause controllers, actuators, and dampers to behave unpredictably or fail.
Example: A 24V AC actuator receiving only 19V may operate sluggishly or fail to open entirely.
2. Power Supply Sizing in BAS Panels
BAS controllers, sensors, and actuators require a stable 24V AC or DC power source.
Overloading a transformer with too many devices can result in voltage drops and erratic system behavior.
3. Voltage Tolerance for Field Devices
Most field devices tolerate a voltage variation of ±10%. Exceeding this range can lead to malfunction or permanent damage.
Example: A 24V DC sensor might operate between 20V–26V, but below or above this range, it risks failure.
4. Avoiding System Downtime
Voltage instability can cause:
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Relay chatter
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Controller resets
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Sensor misreadings
These issues reduce HVAC system efficiency and may lead to complete system breakdowns.
Pro Tip:
Always check voltage specifications of each device and properly size your power supplies to ensure a stable and reliable BAS (Building Automation System) setup.