Commissioning

Commissioning is a systematic process intended to help verify that a building and its systems are performing as designed and expected for its use type. This process involves several key aspects including collaboration throughout the different phases of the project development and construction, quality control inspections of system installation, functional testing of systems and components, and documentation of testing results and deficiencies throughout the commissioning process. These different elements ensure your building is designed and functioning in the most efficient way to meet the needs of the project. 

Building commissioning is becoming more widely recognized as a low-cost and effective method of verifying design, testing the functionality of systems, and correcting deficiencies early on. Due to its success in reducing issues and increasing overall system performance, we are now seeing most green building certifications adopting some aspects of building commissioning, such as functional testing. Along with elective certifications, Energy Codes are becoming more rigorous, and building commissioning is increasingly becoming mandated by state and local governments for general compliance.

Regardless of how efficiently a building is designed—if the systems, equipment, and materials are not installed correctly or operating as intended, the building will not perform as well as was expected.

Benefits of Building Commissioning

• Provide additional quality control and in depth verification of system functionality  
• Identify deficiencies early so that they can be resolved before more costly repairs are needed. 
• Improve energy performance, equipment life, air quality, reliability, comfort of building occupants, and reduce building maintenance costs.
• Create a record for future reference to assist with building operation and maintenance needs
• Provide peace of mind for ownership
• Ensure building staff is properly trained on the operation and maintenance of the building systems

We’re in it for the ROI and the Earth

Reduced energy consumption equals reduced operating expenses. Good for your bottom line and the planet.

Payback Period

8%-20% reduction in operating costs for a building that is commissioned. How?

• Functional testing of energy-saving equipment such as VFDs
• Ensuring setpoints are programmed appropriately with dead bands

1.5-5.5 year simple payback on commissioning

• Based on
  • Lower building energy use
  • Increased communication between construction teams
  • Reduced operational problems once the building is turned over

Complying with Code Requirements

• New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) 
• Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State (ECCCNYS)