Transforming a building lobby to be more appealing to tenants and visitors could change the space’s environment in unexpected ways. Window condensation could become a problem if proper planning is ignored. (Learn more about the condensation issues.)
FacilitiesNet, the online magazine of Building Operating Management (BOM), recently published an article by ESD Commissioning and Energy+Eco Operations Director Saagar Patel that explains why this may be the right time to reexamine the efficiency of building systems.
“5 Commissioning Questions for Return-to-Office Energy Efficiency” outlines how this could be the best time for optimizing building operations as workers return to the office. According to Patel, acting now can not only help provide a safe and healthy environment for returning workers, it can also help improve energy efficiency and hedge against rocketing energy costs. He also says retro-commissioning can offer greater peace of mind for those returning after a long pandemic closer. Patel says:
- Retro-commissioning can help put systems through paces and identify areas of concern or maintenance needs
- Effort and cost put into upgrading filtration and increasing ventilation rates can be completely nullified if a control sensor is not working correctly or a valve is not actuating to properly cool the air – leaving a space stuffy or uncomfortable
- Occupant comfort perception is as important as ensuring proper airflows and indoor air quality (IAQ)
The article also answers important questions such as when is it time to reexamine building systems, is there any way to lock in energy costs, and is a review worth the time and expense?
As operations director for the Commissioning and Energy+Eco team, Saagar Patel extends a key company value to respect everyone to also include the environment. He is a passionate advocate for energy efficiency and sustainability and shares his expertise in those areas to design and construction professionals through articles like this.
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