When incorporating economizers in an air handler, how should exhaust dampers be set?

Using exhaust dampers to maintain static pressure in a building is crucial when incorporating economizers in an air handler. Economizers are designed to take advantage of favorable outdoor conditions to reduce energy consumption by using outside air for cooling instead of mechanically chilled air.

When exhaust dampers are set to maintain static pressure, they help to ensure a balanced airflow throughout the system. Maintaining the right static pressure is essential for proper air distribution, which prevents hot or cold spots and ensures comfort in the occupied spaces. By regulating the exhaust dampers in this way, the system can effectively adjust to changes in demand and maintain efficiency.

This dynamic also allows for the economizer's functioning to be optimized, as balancing the system's pressure prevents excessive energy use while still permitting maximum outside air intake when conditions are right. Overall, setting the exhaust dampers to maintain static pressure aids in the efficient operation of the HVAC system while supporting energy-saving strategies such as economization.