When one hears about “commissioning” a commercial HVAC system, images of breaking a bottle against its side, like when launching or rechristening a new ship, might come to mind. However, in the world of commercial HVACs, commissioning is less ceremonial and more functional.
HVAC commissioning is critical after installing a new HVAC system or any significant overhaul. This comprehensive process ensures that the system has been installed correctly and is performing efficiently, helping to promote energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and long-term sustainability.
Read More: Should You Retrofit Or Replace Your HVAC System?
Three Main Phases In Commercial HVAC Commissioning
Although the commissioning process can vary between systems, it’s typically comprised of three phases:
1. Pre-Commissioning
This opening phase involves reviewing the building’s design documents and specifications and developing the commissioning plan.
2. Commissioning
The actual inspection and testing of the overall GVAC system and its components to ensure they are operating correctly is carried out during this middle phase.
3. Post-Commissioning
The final phase includes documenting the HVAC commissioning process and results and training the building’s staff on operating and maintaining the system.
As noted, most of the work HVAC technicians do directly on the system is carried out during the second phase. Some of the tasks include:
- Checking for air leaks
- Assessing the air conditioner temperature drop to make sure it’s within an acceptable range
- Pressure mapping to mitigate imbalances that can cause leakage
- External static pressure testing to ensure the blower isn’t fighting a high amount of resistance
- Measuring exhaust fan airflow in areas where fans typically achieve a less-than-optimal airflow rating, such as restrooms
- Measuring outside incoming airflow to ensure the system doesn’t get overwhelmed by the amount of air being brought in
The process also involves testing and adjusting various components, such as air handlers, fans, pumps, and controls, to ensure they work together seamlessly.
These tasks should only be undertaken by qualified, licensed HVAC technicians to ensure that the system is commissioned correctly and safely, so you can fully reap the benefits of the process.
Seven Benefits Of Commercial HVAC Commissioning
Commissioning your commercial HVAC systems brings your commercial properties a wide range of benefits, including:
1. Sustainable Energy Efficiency
Commissioning ensures the system is designed and installed to operate efficiently, minimizing energy consumption and reducing operational costs. Optimizing the HVAC system’s performance through commissioning helps minimize energy waste, lower utility bills, and reduce your carbon footprint.
Read More: 6 Tips On Reducing Energy Consumption In Commercial HVAC Systems
2. Improved Indoor Air Quality
HVAC systems play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ), directly influencing building occupants’ health and well-being. Commissioning ensures that ventilation rates, air distribution, and filtration systems are correctly calibrated to meet the required IAQ standards, preventing issues such as inadequate ventilation, poor humidity control, or air contamination.
3. Enhanced System Performance
Commissioning is a quality assurance process for HVAC systems, identifying and rectifying design or installation discrepancies. Fine-tuning the system during commissioning ensures that it operates according to the specified performance parameters for balancing air and water distribution, optimizing control sequences, and validating the accuracy of sensors and actuators. The result is a finely tuned HVAC system that delivers consistent and reliable performance, meeting the specific needs of your building and its occupants.
4. Increased System Reliability And Longevity
HVAC commissioning also supports the system’s long-term health by informing ongoing monitoring and adjustment requirements, helping to prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and enhance the system’s overall resilience, especially during peak periods.
5. Compliance With Standards And Codes
Building codes and industry standards are in place to ensure the safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of HVAC systems. HVAC commissioning is vital for confirming that a building’s HVAC system complies with these standards and codes.
6. Integration Of Smart Technology
Smart technology is becoming increasingly common in commercial building management platforms. HVAC commissioning is pivotal in Smart tech integration by ensuring that sensors, controllers, and communication protocols function seamlessly. The result is a cohesive and responsive building automation system that adapts to user preferences or changing conditions, such as building occupancy or usage.
7. Cost Savings
While the initial investment in HVAC commissioning may seem significant, the long-term cost savings far outweigh the upfront expenses. Optimized energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and prolonged equipment lifespan contribute to substantial financial savings over the life of the HVAC system. Additionally, commissioning helps identify and rectify potential issues early on, preventing costly emergency repairs and minimizing downtime.
Commissioning your new or overhauled HVAC system is critical to ensuring you can take advantage of these essential benefits. When your system requires professional commercial HVAC services in Toronto, call Springbank for fast, efficient solutions you can count on.
Call Springbank For Qualified HVAC Services In Southern Ontario
Optimize your new or overhauled commercial HVAC system for energy efficiency and cost savings with the HVAC technicians in Southern Ontario at Springbank Mechanical Systems. Our team will help with customized solutions to help your equipment perform reliably and efficiently over the long term.
Contact our team anytime to learn more!
Gregg Little, Paul DeThomasis, and Hugo Lopes are co-owners of Springbank Mechanical Systems. You can reach them at 905-569-8990 or via email at gregg@springbank.com, paul@springbank.com, or hugo@springbank.com.