Modern buildings are filled with complex HVAC systems, machines, and other components and technologies that are constantly improving. That’s why building commissioning services are so important. Building commissioning focuses on each individual building system, analyzing and documenting the systems to ensure they are designed, installed, maintained, and operating well. Not only does the system need to be operating at peak performance, but those that rely on each other also need to be in sync, balanced, and communicating with one another, when applicable. 

When is the best time to have commissioning services done on a commercial building? The most ideal time is during the design phase, which ensures that each system is designed and installed properly. However, if you aren’t in the design phase or in the middle of the construction process, there are building commissioning services that can be done after construction is complete, and even on buildings that are decades old. 

What Systems Does Building Commissioning Inspect? 

The major commercial building systems that are covered in commissioning services include, but are not limited to: 

• HVAC, ductwork, etc. 
• Electrical 
• Plumbing 
• Communication and monitoring systems 
• Fire, smoke, and Co2 alarms and prevention systems 
• Many others 

When to Have Building Commissioning Services Done 

The major types of building commissioning services are broken down based on how old your building is. There are four major types: 

1. Commissioning: standard building commissioning takes place in the design phase of a building. At the absolute latest, it can begin while the building is still under construction. The point of commissioning is to evaluate the design of the building and its major systems, making adjustments that impact the performance, efficiency, and the lifespan of the building's systems. When issues are caught in the design phase, they are never built into the structure and design of the building, meaning they aren’t endemic to the very design of the building. Issues are effectively solved before they are even given a chance to cause problems. 
2. Retro-commissioning: this commissioning service is performed on buildings that have never been commissioned before. This process analyzes and identifies inefficiencies in existing systems, recommending repairs, maintenance procedures, and, if needed, replacement components of a system. If possible, and needed, entire systems can be redesigned to become more efficient. 
3. Re-commissioning: even buildings that have undergone commissioning services often need to be recommissioned throughout their life. Experts recommend re-commissioning every 3-4 years for optimal maintenance. Over time, building systems can fall out of balance due to aging, lack of maintenance, and a variety of other reasons. Re-commissioning allows you to get your previously commissioned building back on track and operating at peak efficiency. 
4. Continuous commissioning: also known as ongoing commissioning, this preventative type of building commissioning involves installing a monitoring system on your building. This monitor analyzes your buildings systems and alerts you to any issues that arise, allowing you to instantly address them before they cause more problems. HVAC monitors keep an eye on pressure changes in your facilities, which can negatively impact energy usage, air quality and comfort, and overall building health. 

Why Building Commissioning? 

Building commissioning saves you time and money, and helps reduce your businesses carbon footprint by: 

• Increasing your energy efficiency 
• Saving you operational costs and costs for repairs, maintenance, etc. 
• Reducing repairs and extending the life of equipment 
• Increasing the safety, health, and comfort of building workers and guests 

These advantages will give you peace of mind knowing that your building is healthy and efficient. These problems likely already exist in your building, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with Melink to talk about building commissioning services today.