. . . in Solving the Problem of
HVAC Systems that Don't Work.

When an HVAC system isn't working properly, everyone involved – architect, design engineer, equipment suppliers, installers, contractors and, of course, owners and occupants, want the system to operate better.

There may be many reasons why existing systems do not work properly or satisfy the requirements of the building owner or occupants. For example, we may find that the main system or many minor system components are old and worn. Or it may be that system components have gone out of adjustment or calibration or are out of balance. Another possible source of trouble may just be dirt – system components such as fans, coils, internal screens and others – may have gotten too dirty to allow the system to operate properly. Finally, in some buildings, changes in floor plans without taking into account the effect on HVAC have compromised the design of the original system.

Although any of these potential problems could be solved by abandoning or tearing out the existing equipment, in reality only a system that is old and worn would justify the comparatively large expense.

Each of the cases cited, however, could benefit from HVAC system commissioning.

For example, the process would confirm through actual field testing whether the system was old and which equipment was, in fact, worn and in need of replacement. Conversely, it would also identify which components could be salvaged and utilized, perhaps producing a substantial cost savings.

If a system were out of calibration, adjustment and/or balance, system commissioning would identify them. From this analysis, an exact plan for the most efficient and cost effective solution to the problem would be devised and presented with the commissioning report.

Similarly, the commissioning process would identify dirty fans, coils and similar components and recommend those to be cleaned. Afterwards, the process would include a re-check of the system to verify that the cleaning project was done correctly. Where there has been a floor plan change that is causing the problem, it is a safe bet that no one really knows what those changes were. To complicate things, it may be that there is no record of what HVAC changes have occurred since the system was originally installed. System commissioning includes a field survey of the installed system as it relates to the current floor plan. Here, the commissioning report is necessary for any intelligent redesign work. The process will bring the HVAC system into line with the current floor plan, and how it is used.

For whatever building project or opportunity you face – whether it is new construction, remodeling and/or renovation, or an HVAC system that doesn't function properly – using the Building Commissioning concept and the services of a Commissioning Authority is a sound business decision. It may not only be capable of producing a more cost effective project but will assure you that the HVAC and other systems will operate to everyone's satisfaction.