Driving Efficiency Through Smart HVAC Integration: Vegamovil Case Study

• Client: Vegamovil Car Dealership Warehouses
• Location: Dominican Republic, Multiple Cities
• Integrator: 360 Soluciones Tecnológicas
• HVAC Control Solution: Airzone Aidoo Pro Devices

The Challenge: escalating energy costs and unautomated HVAC

Vegamovil, one of the Dominican Republic's most prominent automotive dealership networks, faced a pressing challenge after expanding its operations to new warehouse facilities in Santiago, La Vega, and Punta Cana. Despite modern infrastructure, these facilities grappled with soaring electricity bills that strained operational budgets. The core issue stemmed from the HVAC systems, which, although newly installed, lacked automation. This absence of smart climate control led to inefficient energy consumption, particularly in the tropical climate where cooling demands are consistently high.

After several months of escalating energy costs, Vegamovil revisited the idea of HVAC automation—an option that 360 Soluciones Tecnológicas had proposed during the initial project phase. The dealership network needed a solution that could deliver measurable cost reductions, ensure operational efficiency, and seamlessly integrate with their existing building management systems (BMS).

The Solution: smart climate control through Aidoo Pro and Home Assistant integration

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Vegamovil partnered with 360 Soluciones Tecnológicas, led by CEO Jefrin Suarez. The integrator proposed implementing Airzone's Aidoo Pro devices, which promised not just basic HVAC control but a sophisticated, automated climate management system designed to optimize energy use across multiple locations.

The project kicked off in September 2023 and concluded in early November. The installation process was strategic and efficient, focusing on retrofitting the existing HVAC infrastructure without significant disruption to daily operations. 23 fan coil units and 29 four-way cassette units across three facilities were each equipped with an Aidoo Pro device. These units spanned across a 1,000 square meter facility, covering diverse environments from expansive showrooms to enclosed office spaces.

One of the defining features of this solution was its seamless integration with the Home Assistant building management platform. Leveraging robust APIs, the integration process allowed centralized control over not just the HVAC systems but also lighting, automated curtains, audio systems, and door access controls. This holistic approach to building management transformed Vegamovil's warehouses into smart facilities capable of dynamic, real-time adjustments based on occupancy, external weather conditions, and internal temperature fluctuations.

The automation system was designed to adapt to the dealership's specific needs. For example, the HVAC system would activate an hour before business hours to pre-climatize the space, ensuring optimal comfort for employees and customers upon arrival. During periods of heavy rainfall, the system adjusted indoor temperatures automatically to maintain a comfortable environment without manual intervention. Additionally, occupancy sensors played a critical role in reducing energy waste by turning off units in unoccupied areas, which was particularly beneficial for spaces like meeting rooms and storage areas that experienced intermittent use.

Vegamovil's IT department now manages the system through a secure interface. This setup eliminated the need for on-site personnel to adjust settings manually, reducing the risk of human error and ensuring consistent energy-saving practices. However, the system also allows for manual overrides in private spaces like offices and conference rooms, providing flexibility without compromising efficiency.

Implementation Challenges and Adaptations

While the integration process was smooth overall, the team encountered several challenges that required innovative solutions. The height of the equipment in the vehicle showrooms posed logistical difficulties, as some HVAC units were installed at heights of 40 to 50 feet. This made manual adjustments impractical and underscored the importance of remote control capabilities. Additionally, power delivery inconsistencies, common in the Dominican Republic, posed risks to sensitive electronic equipment. The new system, however, demonstrated remarkable resilience to power fluctuations, maintaining stable operations without damage to the hardware. The collaboration between 360 Soluciones Tecnológicas and Vegamovil's internal teams ensured that the project stayed on track, with technical support readily available to address issues as they arose.

The Results: cutting energy costs by 50%

The impact of the HVAC automation was both immediate and profound. Vegamovil's monthly electricity expenses plummeted from approximately $7,800 to $4,200, representing nearly a 50% reduction in energy costs. This dramatic decrease translated into a rapid return on investment, with project costs recouped within just four to five months—surpassing initial projections.

Jefrin Suarez reflected on the project's success, stating, "We even offered a performance-based guarantee: if Vegamovil didn't see energy savings, they wouldn't have to pay us. The results spoke for themselves. The client's satisfaction has been overwhelming, and it has opened doors for future collaborations."

Beyond cost savings, the system significantly reduced the operational strain on HVAC equipment. Automated controls minimized unnecessary usage, extending the lifespan of the units and reducing maintenance costs. This benefit was particularly valuable in a commercial setting where equipment downtime could disrupt business operations.

Moreover, the enhanced building automation provided intangible benefits, such as improved comfort for employees and customers. The consistent indoor climate, free from the fluctuations typical of manually controlled systems, created a more pleasant environment conducive to both work and commerce.

Expanding the Smart Building Vision

The success of the Santiago and La Vega installations prompted Vegamovil to expand the automation system to additional locations, including the Punta Cana dealership, which was under renovation during the initial project phase. The scalable nature of the Aidoo Pro devices and the flexible integration capabilities of the Home Assistant platform made this expansion seamless.

Vegamovil's leadership now views smart building automation not as an optional upgrade but as a fundamental component of their operational strategy. The project has become a case study in the effective application of HVAC automation in commercial environments, demonstrating how technology can drive both economic and environmental benefits.

Conclusion

By leveraging Airzone's Aidoo Pro devices and the expertise of 360 Soluciones Tecnológicas, Vegamovil achieved substantial cost savings, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced the longevity of their HVAC infrastructure. The project stands as a testament to the potential of intelligent building management systems to deliver sustainable, cost-effective solutions in the commercial sector.

For businesses facing similar challenges, Vegamovil's experience offers a blueprint for success: invest in smart technology, partner with knowledgeable integrators, and embrace the possibilities of automation. The results speak for themselves, not just in dollars saved but in the creation of smarter, more resilient work environments.

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