For decades, Taco Comfort Solutions has been synonymous with robust, reliable hydronic systems. Now, the industry leader is making waves with the launch of its “Next Generation Zone Controls,” a comprehensive suite of enhanced switching relays and zone valve controls designed to revolutionize how HVAC professionals manage and optimize indoor comfort. This isn’t just an incremental update; it’s a significant leap forward in smart, efficient, and user-friendly zoning technology, directly addressing the evolving needs of installers and end-users alike.
The new lineup, which encompasses enhanced switching relays, zone valve controls, priority zoning for circulators and pumps, and fan controls, represents a strong commitment from Taco to empower HVAC technicians with tools that simplify complex installations while maximizing system performance and energy efficiency. The overarching theme is “Designed for Efficiency, Built for Ease,” reflecting a meticulous development process that incorporated direct feedback from installers in the field.
“Our Next Generation Zone Controls are a direct response to what contractors told us they need,” stated a representative from Taco Comfort Solutions. “They want speed, flexibility, and performance, but without added complexity. We’ve delivered that by integrating advanced features into a streamlined, intuitive design that truly makes installations smarter and faster.”
Key Innovations Driving the Next-Gen Controls:
The new features are designed to make installation, troubleshooting, and optimization simpler and more powerful than ever:
- Diagnostic Lights for All Outputs: A standout feature for installers, easy-to-read diagnostic lights are now integrated for all outputs, including zones, boilers, and auxiliary connections. This dramatically reduces troubleshooting time, allowing technicians to quickly pinpoint issues with minimal downtime.
- Simplified Wiring and Grounding: Taco has focused on making connections hassle-free. Streamlined wiring options and clear grounding points reduce setup time and common installation errors, ensuring a clean and reliable setup.
- Smart Plus® Logic for DHW Recirculation: For domestic hot water (DHW) recirculation systems, the new controls incorporate advanced logic to optimize hot water delivery. This not only enhances user comfort by providing hot water more quickly but also significantly improves efficiency by reducing energy waste.
- Priority Protection Features: Built-in functions like Post-Purge and Pump Exercise are designed to ensure the system operates at peak performance while extending the lifespan of key components. Post-Purge allows the fan or circulator to run for a short period after the heating/cooling call ends, distributing residual energy. Pump Exercise periodically runs pumps during off-cycles to prevent seizing, crucial for system longevity.
- Expanded Functionality with Taco Control Mobile App: Leveraging the power of connectivity, these new zone controls feature built-in Bluetooth® connectivity. This allows installers and system owners to pair their controls with the Taco Control Mobile App, unlocking a host of advanced features. From the app, users can quickly configure settings, fine-tune system modes, optimize performance parameters, and gain real-time system insights without manual adjustments. This digital interface is a game-changer for customization and ease of use.
- Built-in Boiler Relay: Streamlining integration, the new controls now feature a built-in boiler relay, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system wiring for installers.
- Versatile Application: Taco’s Next Generation Zone Controls are engineered for a wide array of applications, including hot water heating systems, closed cooling circuits, air conditioning, hydronic heating and cooling, solar, and geothermal systems. They are also compatible with 2-, 3-, and 4-wire zone valves, ensuring seamless integration across diverse existing and new hydronic setups.
The launch underscores Taco’s continued leadership in the hydronics and HVAC industry. By prioritizing user-centric design and integrating cutting-edge smart technology, these new zone controls are poised to become an indispensable tool for HVAC professionals, driving greater efficiency, reliability, and comfort in homes and businesses for years to come. This move is a testament to the ongoing smart revolution within the HVAC sector, where intuitive controls and data-driven insights are becoming the new standard.