What Is Building Automation?
Building automation incorporates every part of a building’s energy consumption and, by default, affects how efficiently a facility utilizes energy. Today, building automation systems are changing the way facility manager improve energy efficiency and control operating costs. But what is building automation and how does it work?
It’s a complex topic, but we’ll cover the basics.
Building Automation: Controlling Energy In Real-Time
A building automation system, also known as a building management system, is a comprehensive system that can manipulate electric and mechanical systems in any part of a facility. These systems can vary based on the types of technologies present and the needs of property owners, but most automated building systems can control elements such as:
Heating
Cooling
Ventilation
Lighting
Security system
Digital and communication systems
Most new construction facilities include at least some elements of automation. As energy prices increase, retrofitting older facilities in energy-intensive industries has become extremely common.
It’s worth pointing out that energy efficiency isn’t the only benefit of adopting this technology.
The Benefits of Building Automation Systems
These automated systems provide several benefits to property owners.
Improved comfort – An automated system improves HVAC efficiency and can better distribute hot or cool air. This improved efficiency in many retail or office environments, but also supports heated or refrigerated working areas, such as in food processing.
Fail-safe mechanisms – Automated building systems can identify errors or problems that could result in damage or other issues. Automated sensors can trigger emergency shutdowns or start-ups of vital equipment when programmed to do so.
Diagnostic feedback – Getting real-time and long-term data on the performance of priority systems can inform repair or maintenance and even help managers decide when to replace equipment.
Building Automation Applications – Common Industries
All facilities can benefit from the energy savings and improved controls offered by automated systems. Some applications are more ideal than others; in most cases, the more machinery, the more technology and the most energy a facility requires, the more beneficial building automation will be.
Some of the most important industries relying on automated building technology are:
Data centers
Hospitals
Manufacturing plants
Refrigeration plants
Warehouses
Learn How Automated Building Systems Can Solve Your Energy Problems
Take control of your energy environment with customized energy solutions from Keen. We can analyze your facility, design a bespoke system and install it; you’ll work with one project manager and get professional, expert service from start to finish. See what we can do for you and contact us today!