Building owners and property managers search for ways to minimize energy use and save money. One popular solution is the integration of HVAC Controls.
If you have ever read our blog before, you probably already know that commercial HVAC systems account for roughly 40% of a building’s total energy use. It is this fact that has building owners and property managers searching for ways to minimize energy use and save money. One popular solution is the integration of HVAC Controls.
What Are HVAC Controls?
Today, building operating systems provide end users with a one-stop shop of sorts for building and mechanical operations. A wide range of components that had previously been managed separately are now being brought together, including security, HVAC, lighting, window treatments, security systems, elevators, etc.
However, HVAC controls and building automation systems are not always the energy-saving saviors we expect them to be.
When HVAC Controls Go Bad
HVAC control issues tend to fall into one of four categories: user error, programming error, device error, or installation error.
1) User Error
Building automation systems do not operate like rotisserie cookers. It’s not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of device. In order to make sure your controls are working the way you intended, it is important to regularly review set points and ensure no overrides have occurred. If they have, get to the bottom of the issue and answer the tough questions, like whether or not the change is hurting or hindering energy efficiency.
2) Programming Error
The HVAC controls should be programmed to look for certain “expected behaviors.” If those behaviors are not present, the system should alert the end user to take action. However, if the controls are not properly programmed, things could easily slip through the cracks.
3) Device Error
Over time, wear and tear on moving parts – just think about how hard that HVAC system works each and every day – can eventually hinder communication between the HVAC equipment and the HVAC controls. The end result: wasted energy. Even the best HVAC controls can begin to falter after years of service. This is just one reason why regular, preventive HVAC maintenance is so important.
4) Installation Error
Finally, when they are not installed properly, HVAC controls can actually have a negative effect on building efficiency. The increasing technology and rapidly developing marketplace require a contractor with specialized skills that cover not only HVAC, but also lighting, access control, and more.
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) will evaluate the performance of your HVAC controls and Building Automation Systems (BAS) to identify and implement both operational improvements and energy efficiency measures. We re-tune sensor and actuator calibration, HVAC scheduling and temperature/pressure set points to obtain maximum system efficiency.
Request a Quote
To learn more about how Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. can install, service, and repair HVAC Controls, please contact CFSI at 202.600.2787 or sales@crockett-facilities.com. We provide peace of mind to our commercial and government customers, who trust us to keep their buildings’ mechanical and heating and cooling equipment operating at peak performance, without downtime.