“Local Comfort” Function iFeel / ZoneFollow (Temperature Maintenance / My Atmosphere / Follow Me) in Air Conditioners: Purpose, Operating Principles, and Usage Features
Need for the iFeel Function
Modern split systems often face the issue of uneven cooling or heating. While the area near the indoor unit may be comfortable, other parts of the room can feel hot or cold. This is due to the fact that temperature measurement is performed by sensors located near the evaporator. Once the set temperature is reached, non-inverter models turn off, while inverter models reduce compressor power. However, the temperature near the air conditioner may drop faster than in the rest of the room, leading to premature termination of cooling.
To address this issue, the iFeel function was developed — a technology that ensures more accurate temperature measurement in the user’s location.
Operating Principle of the iFeel Function
The iFeel function relies on a built-in temperature sensor located in the remote control. When activated, the air conditioner reads temperature data not only from the indoor unit but also from the remote, thus obtaining more accurate information about the air conditions where the user is located.
Data transmission is carried out via an infrared communication channel. The air conditioner automatically adjusts its operating mode, regulating airflow direction and compressor power to maintain a comfortable temperature exactly where the remote control is situated. This enables even temperature distribution even in large rooms.
In some air conditioner models, the iFeel function is implemented with adaptive operation, adjusting to the user’s individual comfort preferences. The system automatically selects optimal operating parameters, while the user can fine-tune settings by indicating that the room feels too cold or too warm using the corresponding buttons. The unit then saves these preferences and maintains them in subsequent iFeel mode activations.
The “Local Comfort” [FEEL] mode automatically turns off after 2 hours.
Advantages of the Technology
Thanks to the iFeel function, the air conditioner becomes “user-oriented.” If you are on the sofa across the room from the unit, simply place the remote nearby — the system will regulate the climate based on the temperature in that location. This is especially beneficial for large spaces or rooms with complex layouts.
Some manufacturers use other names for this function, such as “Follow Me,” but the essence remains unchanged: the thermometer in the remote transmits temperature readings to the air conditioner for climate adjustment near the user.
Implementation Variations in Different Models
In most models, the iFeel function works the same way: the remote’s sensor measures the temperature in its immediate surroundings, and the air conditioner uses this data to regulate cooling or heating.
In some devices, the implementation is more advanced: the microprocessor also analyzes humidity levels, automatically selecting the most suitable mode (cooling, heating, dehumidification) and adjusting the target temperature. The user can still manually make adjustments using “Too Cold” or “Too Warm” buttons, and the system will save these preferences for future iFeel sessions.
It is important to note that in some models the remote control lacks a temperature sensor, in which case the iFeel function cannot resolve local temperature differences.
How to Activate the Function
To activate the iFeel function, turn on the air conditioner in any mode. Then, on the remote control, find the button labeled iFeel or with a thermometer icon
In some remotes, activation is done via holding or selecting a mode using the “Mode” button.
After activation, it is recommended to leave the remote stationary in the location where comfort is desired — for example, near a workspace or sofa. This allows the system to correctly assess local conditions and adjust its operation accordingly.
.Limitations of the iFeel Function
The iFeel function works effectively only under certain conditions:
• The remote control must be within infrared range — typically no more than 8 meters from the indoor unit. If it is outside this range (e.g., in another room), the air conditioner will revert to standard operation based solely on its internal sensors.
• Frequent movement of the remote can cause unstable performance, as the system will constantly readjust its cooling or heating settings. For optimal results, the remote should remain stationary near the user.
• The remote transmits temperature readings to the indoor unit every 3 minutes. If no signal is received for more than 10 minutes, for instance due to loss of the remote, the unit will switch to using the indoor sensor only. In such cases, the temperature around the remote may differ from that near the air conditioner.
Conclusion
The iFeel function is a valuable addition to split systems, enhancing temperature control accuracy and ensuring comfort in the user’s specific location. It is especially relevant for large spaces, complex layouts, or unstable airflow distribution. When choosing an air conditioner, it is worth considering the availability of this function and its potential benefits in operation.
Related articles:
Air Conditioner: Main Functions and Modes
Health Mode in Air Conditioners
Anti-FUNGUS Function in Air Conditioners
iFAVOR Mode in Air Conditioners
TIMER Function in Air Conditioners
Self-Cleaning iCLEAN Function
SLEEP Night Mode
TURBO Mode in Household Split Systems
Air Direction Function
COOL Mode
Automatic SMART Mode Selection
ECO Mode in Air Conditioners
FAN, FAN SPEED, SPEED in Air Conditioners
DISPLAY Mode in Split Systems
Limited Power Mode GEN, GENERATOR
MUTE Quiet Operation Mode
INTELLIGENT EYE Motion Sensor
HOT START Comfortable Start
AIR Fresh Air Supply Function
User manuals for climate remote controls |