The concept of building performance optimization isn’t new, but its importance has never been more pronounced. In an era where energy conservation and operational efficiency are not just desired but necessary, Retro-Commissioning emerges as a critical step in building maintenance that many property owners overlook.
Introduction
Retro-commissioning is an in-depth process focused on improving an existing building’s function and performance. The goal is to ensure the building’s operational outcomes align with the original design and current usage requirements – a feat often neglected as a facility age. This process is a cornerstone of modern Building Maintenance, playing a significant role in Energy Efficiency gains and ensuring the building is performing optimally.
Within this blog, we’ll discuss the undeniable signs suggesting that your building could greatly benefit from Retro-Commissioning. From skyrocketing Energy Efficiency to optimizing the HVAC system efficiency, recognizing these indicators is key for maintaining a building that is both high-performing and cost-effective.
Sign 1: Increasing Energy Bills
A rising energy bill is often the first indicator that something’s amiss. When your utility expenses begin to climb without an increase in rates or operational demand, it’s time to take a closer look. A comprehensive commercial building energy audit can uncover hidden inefficiencies that, once addressed through Retro-Commissioning, can lead to marked improvements in energy usage and cost savings.
Retro-commissioning systematically identifies and rectifies these issues, resulting in improved system performance and energy savings. Properly calibrated and maintained systems require less energy to operate, leading not only to reduced expenses but also to a smaller carbon footprint.
For a deeper understanding of the financial impact, the provides resources that highlight the potential savings from commissioning.
Sign 2: Frequent Equipment Failures
Equipment that fails regularly is more than an inconvenience; it’s a symptom of larger performance issues that could be nipping at your budget and operational uptime. Frequent breakdowns suggest that systems are operating under stress, improperly maintained, or both. This is where Retro-Commissioning steps in, providing the necessary diagnostics and corrections to get equipment back to its peak performance.
By addressing the root cause of equipment malfunctions, Retro-Commissioning not only minimizes disruptive HVAC Maintenance calls but also extends the functional lifespan of the systems involved. Buildings with properly commissioned systems witness fewer breakdowns and better reliability.
The Building Commissioning Association offers insight into how commissioning can avert equipment failures and boost overall system performance.
Sign 3: Poor Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a critical factor affecting the health and comfort of a building’s occupants. Signs of subpar IAQ, such as stale air, irregular humidity levels, or an increase in health-related complaints, can point toward the need for Retro-Commissioning. This process involves evaluating and adjusting air handling and filtration systems to ensure that they are providing clean and healthy air.
Improving IAQ through Retro-Commissioning has far-reaching effects, not only reducing health risks but also improving concentration and productivity among occupants. It’s a win-win for tenant wellness and building management.
For more on the benefits of good IAQ, ASHRAE provides guidelines and standards for ventilation and indoor air quality.
Sign 4: Difficulty in Maintaining Comfortable Temperatures
Inconsistent temperatures are not only a comfort issue—these fluctuations can signal inefficiencies within the building’s HVAC system. If your building’s occupants are constantly adjusting thermostats, or if some areas are chronically too hot or too cold, it’s an indication that your system is struggling to maintain the set points, and Retro-Commissioning might be in order.
Retro-commissioning assesses the entire HVAC system, from thermostats to air handling units, ensuring each component functions as intended. This holistic approach can uncover issues such as improper control settings or failing equipment, which once addressed, can save energy and improve comfort.
Insight into temperature control and its impact on energy usage can be found through resources like the Energy Star Building Manual.
Increased complaints from occupants about the building environment often provide the first clue that a building is not performing correctly. Whether it’s about noises, drafts, odors, or simply an unexplained dissatisfaction with the space, these grievances can often be traced back to the performance of the building systems.
Retro-commissioning addresses these concerns by ensuring systems are properly balanced and controlled, directly impacting occupant comfort and satisfaction. Happy tenants are often the most obvious sign of a well-commissioned building.
Benefits of Retro Commissioning
As mentioned earlier, Retro-Commissioning provides a slew of advantages. It’s not just about immediate fixes; it’s about enhancing the long-term performance and sustainability of a building. Improved energy efficiency, cost savings, increased equipment lifespans, and higher occupant productivity are just some of the benefits. Additionally, buildings with a history of regular commissioning often have higher resale values and are more appealing to eco-conscious tenants.
Detailing the wider benefits of commissioning, the General Services Administration (GSA) outlines how such initiatives can improve building systems and environments.
Conclusion
Overlooking the signs that your building needs Retro-Commissioning can lead to increased operational costs and reduced occupant satisfaction. By understanding and recognizing the signs—increased energy bills, frequent equipment failures, poor IAQ, difficulty maintaining comfortable temperatures, and occupant complaints—you can take proactive steps to ensure your building operates at peak performance.
Investing in Retro-Commissioning is an investment in the future of your building. It guarantees that you’re not just solving today’s problems but also preventing tomorrow’s. If you’re witnessing any of the aforementioned signs, consider Retro-Commissioning as a strategic move towards better performance, enhanced efficiency, and happier tenants.
VertPro serves as a resourceful platform for property owners and managers seeking to enhance their buildings’ energy efficiency. The site offers a range of services, including Commercial Energy Audits, Benchmark Compliance consultancy, and a Construction Marketplace. At the heart of VertPro® is a suite of SaaS technology-based solutions designed to assist in navigating the complexities of Energy Benchmarking and Energy Audits/RCx Plus, while ensuring adherence to over 60 Energy Benchmarking and Energy Efficiency Laws across the country.
For those looking to improve their property’s energy usage and operational value, VertPro.com provides a diverse array of tools and information. The site aims to facilitate a better understanding of energy efficiency practices and legislation, helping building owners and property managers make informed decisions about their energy strategies while complying with all energy ordinances and laws.
