Reducing energy costs and lowering HVAC cooling loads — that’s the true purpose of an economizer. At its core, an economizer is a controlled ventilation device that strategically introduces outdoor air into a building. When the outdoor conditions are favorable, it can significantly reduce mechanical cooling demand while also meeting ventilation codes for fresh air intake.
Let’s break down how they work, why they matter, and what components make up a typical economizer system.
What Does an Economizer Do?
Webster defines economize as “to reduce expenses.” Within HVAC systems, economizers reduce expenses by using cool outdoor air to condition indoor spaces — rather than relying solely on compressors and mechanical cooling.
Because building codes require specified amounts of outdoor air for ventilation based on occupancy and building type, an economizer is a practical way to meet those requirements efficiently.
Core Components of an Economizer
A standard economizer includes the following major elements:
1. Outdoor Air Damper (OA)
Controls how much fresh outside air the system admits.
2. Return Air Damper (RA)
Regulates how much indoor recirculated air is sent back into the HVAC system.