Energy Conservation through Ongoing Commissioning

Abstract

ABSTRACT Building systems and their controls have become very complex. A modern building automation system (BAS) can have thousands of data points, a network of controllers, and software with programming logic that is often inaccessible by the building personnel. If not regularly calibrated, maintained, and monitored, the complexity of the system can become more a liability than an asset. This article is based on observations and lessons learned through field experience, as opposed to an in-depth discussion of controls theory or operations and maintenance methodologies. Based on experience from a multitude of retrocommissioning and energy efficiency projects, a pattern has emerged: existing buildings have a significant number of BAS defects which cause excessive energy consumption, reliability problems, and occupant comfort issues. Through case studies, this article illustrates the importance of implementing a process for uncovering control system defects and will discuss ongoing commissioning as a potential method for identifying and resolving BAS defects and achieving optimum building energy efficiency and system reliability.