Are you a commercial building owner looking to improve the efficiency of your facility while reducing operating costs? Retro-commissioning may be the answer for resolving aging building system problems and keeping occupants comfortable and complaint-free.
What is Retro-Commissioning?
Retro-commissioning is a systematic evaluation of a building’s energy-consuming systems. Since commercial buildings have complex mechanical, electrical, and control systems, even small problems can cause big issues with a system’s performance. During a retro-commissioning evaluation, trained professionals find problem areas with a building’s existing equipment and systems. The building owner then works with these professionals to develop a plan to improve efficiency and performance.
Depending on the building’s needs, retro-commissioning may address some of the following:
- HVAC loose fan belts and leaking valves
- Thermostats and sensors that are out of calibration
- Equipment or lighting running at inappropriate times
- Incorrectly functioning control sequences
- Systems simultaneously heating and cooling
- Air balancing systems running ineffectively
When Should You Consider Retro-Commissioning?
- Experiencing issues with your building systems’ performance: Has there been a recent unexpected increase in building energy use? You’ll definitely notice it in your costs!
- Comfort complaints from occupants: Has there been an increase in complaints about air quality or temperature control?
- Recent facility updates: Has the building’s needs changed due to new occupants or remodeling to the facility?
Retro-commissioning benefits everyone associated with your building. Occupants find the environment more comfortable and receptive to their needs, building managers get fewer complaints while gaining a better understanding of your building, and your building systems will run more efficiently, giving you peace of mind while saving money.
Worried retro-commissioning is too expensive? Some of the suggested improvements may be inexpensive fixes and lead to big energy savings. Even with bigger projects, the return on investment from energy savings could come in as little as a year or two. Studies suggest a retro-commissioning project can yield energy savings up to 15 percent.
Performance Solutions’ industry experts have saved clients over millions of dollars in operating costs. If you are interested in learning how retro-commissioning can benefit you and your facility, contact us today.
