Variable Frequency Drives on Air Handling Units
For commercial buildings
A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) matches motor energy to the work requirements. When installed on an AHU fan, the VFD varies fan speed. When it slows down, the fan draws less power than at constant speed, which saves energy.
While some AHU systems are engineered for 100 percent flow, many could operate with less. For example, turning a fan down just 10 percent can save up to 25 percent in energy costs. In most systems, reducing the speed by 50 percent can result in a 75 percent drop in energy consumption.
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Payback & Incentives
To get started, contact your Trade Ally Network NW field specialist for help with forms and program incentives. Utility participation and incentives vary.
Up to $300
per horsepower
Amount received for qualifying energy-efficient VFD on AHU systems in commercial buildings.
2
years
A typical project payback, including incentives.
Find local incentives
Use this tool to search for incentive programs available in your project area.
Customer Benefits
Reduced energy costs
Reduced fan usage
Long life span
Precise temperature control
Incentive Requirements
Pre-Installation
The existing building must:
- Building heating fuel type may be either electric or gas.
- VFD must be installed on existing AHU single-speed fan.
- This measure applies to retrofits only.
Post-Installation
- The retrofit adds a VFD to control the fan with variable-speed fan operation.
- Any existing AHU throttling or bypass devices are removed or permanently disabled.