The purpose of an intelligent building control system is to gather real-time data from the environment and use it to make adjustments to the building’s systems (such as the HVAC, lighting, and more) based on whatever parameters the user has set. Since one of the main benefits of this type of automated system optimization is how dramatically it boosts energy efficiency, commercial buildings that use the technology will typically have lower operational costs while being more comfortable and secure.
Why “smart” controls are a great investment
Investing in "smart" lighting, access, and HVAC system controls are proven ways to yield positive ROI for commercial building owners and facility managers in Colorado who struggle with rising energy costs.
Additionally, intelligent controls help to prevent emergency outages and expensive downtime by making it easier to note troublesome trends and predict equipment failures.
Finally, “smart” building control systems and building automation are desired features, so they increase the property's resale value.
Improving commercial building energy efficiency using intelligent control systems starts with three basic elements:
Smart HVAC Systems
Your HVAC system is likely your facility’s largest consumer of energy. Enhancing your level of understanding of, and control over, that system can result in immediate cost savings. A comprehensive solution that combines smart sensors and controls, automation, and data analytics will improve energy efficiency, ensure consistent comfort, and improve system reliability.
Smart Lighting
After the HVAC system, lighting tends to use the most energy in commercial facilities. Without an intelligent control system that will effectively manage the process, it’s difficult to reduce the energy consumption of your building’s lighting system. That’s because the only alternative to automated controls is to change tenant behavior — a task that can be very difficult. On the other hand, a smart lighting system changes the building's behavior, which is far easier and more effective.
Smart Access
Automated door access systems offer a secure and convenient option for facilities with unique security needs and/or users who have special needs. Combined with appropriate cards or badges that are programmed to approve or deny access based on security permission, these systems can simultaneously solve a number of challenges these facilities face on a daily basis. This results in an easier, more convenient access process without sacrificing security.
Our sister company, Midwest Mechanical (a Service Logic organization based in Chicago), shared this experience involving secure access technology:
“We worked with the University of Chicago to improve accessibility for wheelchair-bound, quadriplegic students by equipping each wheelchair with intelligent badging. These badges communicated with automated door openers to provide or deny access to specific areas of the facility but also:
- Emboldened residents with independence
- Provided easier access to common areas
- Increased security with restricted access to private areas
- Reduced staff time assisting residents with tasks that can be easily automated”
Improving commercial building energy efficiency in Colorado and Arizona with intelligent control systems is one way to reduce operating costs. To identify more, check out our article “The Facility Manager’s Guide To Energy Efficiency For Your Commercial Building.”
