HVAC Commissioning & Retro-Commissioning in Pittsburgh

Commissioning

Commissioning takes place at the completion of mechanical system installation in either a new or existing building to ensure the system as installed meets all the design criteria.

Readings are taken and reported as part of the project close-out process.

Retro-commissioning

Retro-commissioning (RCx) is the application of the commissioning process to existing mechanical systems. In a general sense, RCx is a tune-up of a building and its systems. Like any mechanical device, building systems lose efficiency and effectiveness over time. Additionally, in today’s complex buildings, systems are highly interactive with sophisticated control systems that can create a trickle-down effect on building operations – small problems have big effects on performance. No matter how well building operators and service contractors maintain equipment, if it operates inefficiently or more often than needed, energy waste and reliability problems can occur.

RCx is a process that seeks to improve how building equipment and systems function together. Depending on the age of the building, RCx can often resolve problems that occurred during design or construction, or address problems that have developed throughout the building’s life. In all, RCx improves a building’s operations and maintenance (O&M) procedures to enhance overall building performance.

Everyone benefits from retro-commissioning.

For owners/landlords, retro-commissioning reduces building operating costs that can lead to an increase in net operating income

Building managers notice fewer occupant complaints and increased ability to manage systemsBuilding staff receive training and improved documentationBuilding occupants are more comfortableWhen contracted for a RCx project, Huckestein’s technicians conduct an exhaustive examination of the facility HVAC systems and components (HVAC Commissioning) and implement a systematic process to optimize the performance of a building (Building Commissioning). We establish optimal performance by understanding the owner’s requirements and finding the most economical and energy efficient way to meet them. Huckestein’s combination of technical expertise and practical experience uniquely qualify us to plan and execute a successful retro-commissioning project to achieve this goal.

Not every owner can afford to construct a new building, but every owner wants to ensure their building operates both at its fullest potential and lowest cost. 

A recent study reported simple payback time of .2 to 2.1 years for the costs associated with retro-commissioning, making it an affordable as well as beneficial investment.See how we helped the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum achieve increased comfort and energy efficiency through retro-commissioning. Read the project profile.