In 2013, v8E firmware was released for SmartZone and since then we have had a vision of the perfect Outdoor Temperature Sensor/Controller to match with the built-in Advanced FRESH AIR capabilities of the SmartZone-4X.
More information about these FRESH AIR Features click here.
Until now, we have recommended several different methods to limit the function of Fresh Air when the outside air temperature is too high or two low using off-the shelf parts. We have used professional controls such as the RANCO ETC, standard thermostats & remote sensors, and even some questionable temperature sensors from Amazon. These have all had pitfalls, some more than others but the common one is complexity of wiring and configuration. When you are recommending a control device that is intended to last 10 to 20 years & up to the lifetime of the home, it is important to think about maintenance and usability for future occupants. ALL of the solutions up until now have been potential problems with regard to this maintenance/usability issue.
NOW, we are proud to introduce the product that we have always envisioned! The OUTDOOR AIR THERMOSTAT is an accessory for the SmartZone-4X that allows you to take full advantage of the advanced FRESH AIR features built into SmartZone-4X.
The Outdoor Air Thermostat allows you to set HIGH and LOW outdoor temperatures. Above the HIGH or below the LOW fresh-air intake will not run. In other words, you can tell the SmartZone-4X that you do not want fresh air to run when it is too HOT and/or too COLD outside.
Also, the Outdoor Air Thermostat gives you the ability to “demand” fresh air temporarily (in 5 minute increments)… AND, disable (pause) the automatic fresh air from running using the Outdoor Air Thermostat.
PLUS NOW the Outdoor Air Thermostat can be used to enable the ECONOMIZER (Free Cooling) feature on the SmartZone-4X board. Enthalpy Sensors take into account temperature & humidity to enable or disable the ECONOMIZER feature of SmartZone-4X but the cost and reliability of these types of humidity and temperature sensors can be prohibitive. The Outdoor Air Thermostat can be an affordable and effective way to utilize ECONOMIZER mode on the SmartZone-4X.
