Retrocommissioning vs Building Commissioning

The idea of “commissioning” comes from the shipbuilding industry. Before a newly built ship is put into service, it goes through extensive testing and quality assurance. Equipment is installed and evaluated, problems are detected and fixed, and the crew is thoroughly trained. Only once a ship successfully passes this stringent process will it be “commissioned” and declared ready for duty.

Building Commmissioning & in the construction industry

Building commissioning applies the same diligent approach to new construction projects. It is an intensive quality control process that begins during design and continues through construction, occupancy, and operations. Commissioning ensures that a new building functions as the owner intended from day one, and that the operations staff are prepared to effectively operate and maintain the building systems.

Retrocommissioning

Retrocommissioning (sometimes spelled a retro-commissioning) takes the commissioning concept and applies it to existing buildings. It is a process that systematically improves how building equipment and systems work together. Depending on the age of the building, retrocommissioning can identify and resolve problems that occurred during design or construction, or address issues that have arisen over time. Overall, retrocommissioning enhances a building’s operations, maintenance practices, and energy efficiency.

Recommissioning involves putting an already commissioned building through the commissioning process again. This may occur due to a change in building use or ownership, operational problems, or other factors. Ideally, recommissioning is part of the initial commissioning or retrocommissioning plan.

Recommissioning Scope

The scope of recommissioning can range from simple adjustments to more complex operational and equipment upgrades. The goal is to maximise building performance, meet the owner’s needs, and sustain benefits over time.

Did You Know?

The State of California requires retrocommissioning and then recommissioning every five years for all state-owned buildings over 50,000 square feet.

Commissionability for Retrocommissioning

Early on, the retrocommissioning team will analyse energy costs to understand energy use patterns. In the investigation phase, they identify common problems like simultaneous heating and cooling, ineffective economisers, and excess air and water flows – all of which waste energy. Throughout the project, the team takes a holistic view of operations to optimise overall system integration.

 

Reducing Energy Costs and Increasing Sustainability

Retrocommissioning can significantly reduce whole building energy use, resulting in thousands in cost savings. It also enhances indoor environmental quality, improves comfort, extends equipment life, and saves on labour – adding to the return on investment.

 

Making the Internal Case for Retrocommissioning

Facility managers may need to convince decision makers of the value of retrocommissioning. A strong proposal focuses on the compelling business case, outlining how benefits outweigh costs. It details estimated costs but also identifies potential savings strategies. Emphasising the energy and non-energy benefits, and the attractive payback period, helps secure leadership support and project approval.

 

The Retrocommissioning Process – Short Guide

• Planning – Define goals, get buy-in, assemble team, document operating needs
• Investigation – Gather data, analyze systems, test performance, identify improvements
• Implementation – Select and implement operational enhancements, verify results
• Hand-Off – Develop manuals and plans, train staff, report findings, ensure persistence

 

Is it Time to Recommission a building?

Signs that recommissioning may be needed include increased energy use, comfort issues, control overrides, frequent repairs, tenant improvements, or over 5 years since the last recommissioning. Building staff can lead recommissioning, leveraging knowledge gained in the initial retrocommissioning. The process involves reviewing operating requirements, inspecting systems, updating documentation, implementing minor improvements, and verifying performance. Recommissioning keeps buildings running optimally year after year.

Further Reading

A RetroCommissioning guide for Building owners

THE EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) in the USA has produced a downloadable guide called which contains some great

California Commissioning Guide: Existing Buildings

The California Commissioning Collaborative has produced a guide for existing buildings

 

Give your building a tune-up!

Call Sutton Services to see how we can help you with Retrocommissioning your building.