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What is an Economizer?
An economizer is an energy-saving ventilation component commonly added to commercial rooftop HVAC systems (RTUs). It works by monitoring outdoor air conditions and automatically drawing in cool, dry air when available—reducing the need for mechanical cooling. Economizers use dampers, sensors, and control logic to blend fresh outdoor air with return air, optimizing indoor comfort while lowering energy usage. They're especially effective during mild seasons, like spring and fall, when outdoor temperatures naturally support indoor climate control. Economizers improve HVAC efficiency, extend equipment lifespan, and can help meet ventilation standards and local building codes. Whether installed as part of a new RTU system or retrofitted into an existing one, economizers are a cost-effective way to boost performance and sustainability.
Free Cooling Logic
Economizers draw in cool outdoor air when conditions allow—reducing or eliminating the need for mechanical cooling.
Smart Sensor Control
Integrated temperature and enthalpy sensors monitor real-time conditions to decide when to activate economizer mode.
Retrofit-Ready Efficiency
Economizers can be added to many existing RTUs, offering energy savings and code compliance without full system replacement.
Ventilation + Savings
With all access points consolidated into a single rooftop location, technicians can perform service tasks faster and more safely.
ECONOMIZER DESIGN & SPECIFICATION
We engineer solutions tailored to your rooftop units, building layout, and climate.
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Load calculations for cooling reduction potential
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Selection of dry-bulb, enthalpy, or dual-sensor logic
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Equipment compatibility analysis (new or retrofit)
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Building code and ASHRAE 62.1/90.1 compliance
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Integration planning with zoning or automation systems
RETROFIT & INSTALLATION
Upgrade existing RTUs with high-performance economizer kits.
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Field installation of economizer dampers and actuators
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Integration with OEM or aftermarket control boards
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Wiring, calibration, and startup testing
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Retrofit solutions for Trane, Carrier, Lennox, York, and more
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Minimal disruption to building occupants during install
Our Services
ETS helps buildings harness outdoor air for free cooling and long-term efficiency.
CONTROLS & AUTOMATION
Smarter systems, smarter savings—with Prolon, BACnet, and more.
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Logic control for dry-bulb and enthalpy changeover
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Integration with BMS platforms and RTU controls
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Demand-controlled ventilation pairing
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Remote monitoring and setpoint adjustment
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Seasonal economizer scheduling and lockout control
SERVICE, REPAIR & OPTIMIZATION
We maintain and fine-tune economizers for real-world performance.
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Damper, actuator, and sensor inspection
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Cleaning and recalibration of controls
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Diagnosis of stuck or failed economizer components
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Code compliance testing and airflow verification
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Seasonal tune-ups to optimize savings
Extend RTU Lifespan With Smart Upgrades
HVAC Tailored to Your Business
Whether you manage a high-traffic restaurant, a quiet office, or a climate-sensitive warehouse, your HVAC needs are unique. We specialize in solutions that adapt to different environments and operational demands, ensuring consistent comfort and efficiency for every industry we serve.
THE ETS HVAC BLOG
Discover the latest in commercial HVAC — RTUs, economizers, energy efficiency tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at ETS projects that keep Ohio businesses running strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
An economizer uses cool outdoor air to reduce or eliminate mechanical cooling. It helps save energy, improve indoor air quality, and reduce wear on the compressor.
In favorable climates, economizers can reduce cooling costs by 20–30% by using free cooling from outside air when conditions allow.
Yes. If your RTU is economizer-ready or has a compatible control board, we can install a modular or retrofit economizer kit to enhance efficiency.
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Dry Bulb Economizers: Measure outdoor temperature
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Enthalpy Economizers: Measure temperature and humidity for more accurate cooling potential
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Differential Enthalpy Systems: Compare indoor and outdoor air quality to optimize intake
Yes. They introduce fresh, filtered outside air, which helps meet ASHRAE ventilation standards and dilute indoor air pollutants.
They use outdoor air temperature, humidity, and CO₂ sensors, along with logic controls, to decide when to open dampers and use free cooling.
In many states, building energy codes (like ASHRAE 90.1 or IECC) require economizers for systems above a certain size, especially in new construction or major retrofits.
Typical issues include:
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Stuck or damaged dampers
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Sensor drift or failure
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Faulty logic modules
Routine maintenance ensures proper function and savings.
At ETS, we specialize in retrofitting economizers on existing rooftop HVAC units to boost performance and efficiency. Our team evaluates your current system, installs compatible economizer kits, and integrates advanced controls to maximize energy savings—without the cost of a full system replacement.
ETS combines technical expertise with hands-on experience in commercial HVAC systems. We work with leading economizer technologies, ensuring your rooftop units are optimized for free cooling, energy savings, and code compliance. Plus, our service includes proper commissioning and long-term maintenance support.
Economizers should be inspected and maintained at least twice a year. This includes cleaning and testing sensors, verifying damper movement, checking actuator operation, and ensuring control sequences are working properly. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, energy savings, and compliance with ventilation standards.
Need commercial HVAC service in Central Ohio? Request a quote or call (614) 289-8733 to get started.
Frequently asked questions
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