With Messana Controls, the HVAC system can operate in two main modes: Auto and Manual. The operating mode can be selected in the Heating and Cooling Changeover page of the Messana App.
Auto Mode
In Auto Mode, the system automatically determines the mode through a voting system based on room temperatures and their weights and switches automatically without user intervention.
Manual Mode
Manual Mode allows users to have direct control over selecting a primary mode, either heating or cooling, according to their preference. Within Manual Mode, the Adaptive Comfort feature becomes available.
Manual Mode with Adaptive Comfort feature
Adaptive Comfort enables temporary mode switches to address specific situations while preserving the selected primary mode. For example, if the system is set in manual cooling mode, Adaptive Comfort can temporarily switch to heating mode to address a cold morning or if the system is set in heating, it could switch temporarily to cooling in case of solar gain through windows. Once the situation is resolved, the system returns to the primary mode set by the user.
Auto Mode vs Adaptive Comfort
Auto Mode
- Convenient automatic mode based on room temperatures and weights.
- More frequent HVAC system activations to maintain desired temperature.
- Maintains a consistent temperature range around the setpoint for optimal comfort.
Manual Mode with Adaptive Comfort
- User-controlled selection of primary mode.
- Temporary switches to adapt to changing conditions.
- Energy-saving benefits with targeted mode switches for unusual conditions.
Summary
In summary, Auto Mode automatically determines the operating mode based on room temperatures and weights, maintaining temperature within a deadband around the setpoint. In contrast, Manual Mode with Adaptive Comfort allows users to select a primary mode and experience temporary switches to adapt to changing conditions, particularly in the shoulder months or areas with significant temperature variations throughout the day. Adaptive Comfort is specifically activated when unusual conditions arise and offers energy-saving benefits compared to Auto Mode, which tends to activate the HVAC system more frequently.