HVACxGo's FAQs

HVACxGO accepts the following file formats:

• .csv:

A plain-text file storing tabular data with comma-separated values. Ideal for large time-date datasets but lacks formulas or formatting. Disadvantage: Requires external tools for trend calculations or visualizations.

• .xlsx:

A modern Excel format using XML, supporting formulas, charts, and formatting. Great for real-time trend analysis. Disadvantage: Heavier and slower for large datasets, requires compatible software.

• .xls:

An older Excel binary format with basic functionality. Suitable for smaller datasets. Disadvantage: Limited to 65,536 rows and lacks modern features.

• .xlsm:

An Excel format like .xlsx but with macros for automation. Enables custom time-date processing. Disadvantage: Macros add complexity and security risks, may require macro-enabled settings.

• Points:

A general term that may refer to a set of data points or visual markers (e.g., dots) which is analogous to a series on a graph, often used interchangeably but less specific about the underlying data context. (e.g., SAT (Supply Air Temperature)

• Data Points:

Data points are the underlying data, potentially with additional attributes. They are Specific Values collected at distinct timestamps (e.g., SAT (Supply Air Temperature) 76.5F on 2025_04_30 - 10:00 AM), representing raw or processed measurements plotted to show trends over time.

• Graph performance is directly correlated to the total number of Data Points.

The maximum file size for a single upload to Project Data is 4.5 MB. You can upload additional data across multiple uploads.

You can upload up to 100 files simultaneously to Project Data, provided the each file size is under 4.5 MB.

• Open the .xls file in Microsoft Excel.

• Go to File > Save As.

• Choose CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv) as the file format.

• Save the file. Note: Formulas and formatting will not be retained in the .csv file.

With a Basic Level Account, you can create and maintain up to 3 projects per account.

You can create up to 100 graphs per project.

Each graph can include up to 6 primary and 6 secondary points. When selecting points, you can see how many of each are chosen. Unassigned points will be listed as \"Unassigned.\" If you create a graph without assigning points, the first 6 selected will be assigned as Primary and the next 6 as Secondary. You can add or remove points from the graph screen after creation.

Quick View is a window displaying 5 points corresponding to the cursor’s position on the graph, allowing you to view concurrent values. You can add or remove these points at any time. To print a graph with the cursor’s location and Quick View points, right-click and select Export, then name and save it to your project storage.

Yes, you can add notes in the blue \"Notes\" section at the bottom of the graph. Click edit icon to enter your notes, which will be saved and included in the printed graph version.

Trending refers to analyzing data over time to identify patterns, changes, or fluctuations, helping to understand variable evolution, predict future performance, and make informed decisions. In the HVAC industry, trended data is collected from sensors and controllers monitoring temperature, humidity, pressures, actuators, dampers, and energy usage. This data is organized into time-based spreadsheets, cleaned, and structured for analysis. It is then visualized through line charts using built-in charting tools. Trend graphs are crucial for verifying new HVAC system functionality, maintaining efficient operations, enhancing system reliability, and supporting strategic management decisions.

Using trend data to verify HVAC systems can be reliable but carries risks, such as inaccurate data collection, sensor errors, or limited context (e.g., ignoring weather or occupancy changes). To enhance reliability:

• Regularly calibrate and maintain sensors for data accuracy.

• Use real-time monitoring for quicker issue identification.

• Combine trend data with operational logs and external factors for a comprehensive view.

• Establish and update clear baselines for relevant comparisons.

• Conduct routine physical inspections to validate findings and catch short-term issues.

• Train staff in data interpretation and use anomaly detection algorithms to identify discrepancies.

• Document analyses and maintenance actions for accountability and continuous improvement.

These steps improve the reliability of trending analysis, enhancing HVAC system performance and longevity.

Yes, it is highly recommended engineers include Trending or Endurance Testing in the design documents as part of the acceptance criteria. Not all Functional Testing is comprehensive, often missing issues during the acceptance phase, especially when only sampling 10% of systems. A final trend analysis can identify issues not detected during Functional Testing, ensuring system reliability and performance.

Trending provides significant value for HVAC system management, including:

• Performance Monitoring

Trend graphs display historical data on variables like temperature, humidity, and energy consumption, enabling operators to track system performance over time.

• Identifying Patterns:

Visualizing trends helps identify patterns and correlations, such as seasonal variations or external impacts on HVAC performance.

• Detecting Anomalies:

Trend graphs highlight deviations, like sudden temperature or energy usage spikes, indicating potential malfunctions or inefficiencies.

• Predictive Maintenance:

Analyzing trends can predict failures by spotting gradual changes, enabling proactive maintenance.

• Optimizing Operations:

Trends reveal how settings affect performance, allowing fine-tuning for improved efficiency, comfort, and energy use.

• Benchmarking:

Historical trends provide a baseline to compare current performance, assessing improvements or declines in efficiency.

• Energy Management:

Tracking energy consumption trends identifies savings opportunities and verifies energy-saving measures.

• Reporting and Analysis:

Trend graphs support clear reports and presentations for stakeholders, summarizing system performance.

• Compliance and Verification:

Trends provide evidence of compliance with regulatory or performance standards over time.

• Decision Support:

Visual insights from trend graphs aid informed decisions on system adjustments, upgrades, or replacements.