Proximity Sensor

Kerrie Fowke • March 2, 2021

Proximity/Infrared Human Presence Sensor

Daikin heat pump with proximity sensor circled.

Proximity, infrared human presence or intelligent eye is the name of the infrared sensor in a modern heat pump or air conditioner which detects human movement in a room. It may also be known by other names depending on the particular brand.

If no one is in the room for more than 20 minutes, the operation automatically changes to energy saving operation.

When people are in the room, the unit will be in normal operation (whilst it is detecting movement ). When no one is in the room, say after 20 minutes of inactivity the system will start its energy saving operation. The set temperature will shift 2 degrees (–2°C in HEAT / +2°C in COOL / +2°C in DRY operation from set temperature) until someone is back in the room when the unit will sense this and return to its normal operation.

Craig, one of The Heat Pump People's trained technicians discusses the proximity sensor in the first of our Comfort Series videos below.

This is a very useful mode, especially if you have forgotten to turn your heat pump off and wish to save energy. It is worth noting however, that if you do not realise that your heat pump is on this setting, you may think it is faulting whilst it ramps back up after you return to the room. It is always best to check your remote settings to see what the system is set to.

If you believe your heat pump is not working correctly or you would like to talk to one of our team about purchasing a heat pump with a proximity sensor, call tel:03 366 1823 today.