In our previous blog we delved into the importance of viewing the Building Management Systems (BMS) holistically and how EP&T Global's approach helps ensure that each component of the BMS is working in harmony with the others. However, to truly unlock the full potential of a BMS, it is critical to look beyond it, diving deeper into the added value and verification that sub-metering and sensors bring to the table.
A well-commissioned BMS is the cornerstone of any energy-efficient, high-performing building. But a BMS, like any system, is not infallible. The readings it provides are only as accurate as its sensors and their setup. That's why relying on something other than the BMS for your data is paramount.
This is where sub-metering truly shines, offering an independent source of data that can validate or challenge the readings from the BMS.
Sub-metering serves as an auditing tool that verifies the BMS logic and commissioning. When the BMS suggests one thing, and the metering data indicates something else, it's a red flag that there may be a commissioning issue with the BMS. This validation process, facilitated by sub-metering and additional sensors, ensures the accuracy of the BMS’ setup and ongoing operation.
Skipping the step of installing sub-meters and sensors to validate the readings of the BMS can lead to a chain reaction of inefficiencies. The automation will inevitably be flawed if building automation systems such as HVAC, AHUs, and Chillers operate based on inaccurate sensors and data within the BMS. This inaccuracy drives sub-optimal building operation and performance, potentially resulting in excess energy consumption, inflated costs, and increased carbon emissions.
Over the years, our technical services team has discovered common issues due to inaccurate sensor data from BMS. These include:
- Identifying the BMS set up and staging of chiller operations has meant that the assets were operating out of hours, resulting in a high excess energy cost for the business
- Return air damper operational issues.
- Recording a high base load out of hours, which identified issues with assets on the mechanical board operating continuously, once remedied and rescheduled to the BMS it saved over £6k.
At EP&T Global, we stand by our 'Three As' principle: Accurate, Auditable, and Actionable. Our commitment to these tenets ensures that we deliver the best service to our clients. Our use of sub-metering and sensors, in tandem with our EDGE Intelligent System, provides an accurate, auditable data stream that can be transformed into actionable insights.
In conclusion, a well-commissioned BMS is only the start. To truly optimise building performance, it's critical to go beyond the BMS with the power of sub-metering. This approach ensures accuracy, enables ongoing auditing, and empowers building owners and operators to make informed, data-driven actions that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions.
Sub-metering and sensors take us beyond the BMS and into a future of optimised, sustainable building operations.
For more information please contact the team here
