What You Need to Know About Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx)

Optimizing energy efficiency and maintaining system performance is crucial not only for cost savings, but for environmental responsibility. Monitoring-based commissioning (MBCx) is a powerful tool that business owners and facility managers can use to achieve these goals. In this blog, we’ll delve into monitoring-based commissioning, explaining what it is, how it works, and why you should consider it for your commercial building.

What Is Monitoring-Based Commissioning?

Monitoring-based commissioning, often referred to as MBCx, is a systematic process used to improve the performance of a building’s energy systems through continuous monitoring and analysis. This approach maintains optimal conditions and energy efficiency throughout the building’s life cycle rather than just at the initial commissioning phase. MBCx can be applied to various systems, including HVAC, lighting, and electrical.

The MBCx process typically involves the following:

Data Collection: Sensors and meters are installed to collect data on various building systems, such as temperature, humidity, energy consumption, and equipment performance.
Data Analysis: The collected data is analyzed to identify patterns, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement. Advanced software tools are often used to streamline this analysis.
Performance Benchmarking: Performance benchmarks are set based on industry standards or best practices for different building systems. These benchmarks are a reference point for measuring and improving performance.
Continuous Monitoring: Building systems are monitored in real time to ensure they meet the established benchmarks. Any deviations trigger alerts and actions.
Action and Reporting: Corrective actions and improvements are made based on the data analysis. Detailed reports and documentation track progress and maintain transparency.
Ongoing Maintenance and Optimization: MBCx is not a one-time effort. It requires continuous maintenance and optimization to ensure long-term efficiency and performance.

Why Should You Consider MBCx for Your Business?

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

One of the primary motivations for adopting MBCx is the significant energy and cost savings. By continuously monitoring and optimizing building systems, you can reduce energy waste and lower utility bills.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, businesses are under growing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint. Monitoring-based commissioning contributes to sustainability by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. It aligns with corporate social responsibility initiatives and can enhance your reputation as an environmentally conscious organization.

Improved Comfort and Productivity

Optimal building performance doesn’t just benefit the bottom line; it enhances the well-being of occupants. Well-maintained systems ensure a comfortable and productive working environment. Employees and customers benefit from consistent indoor temperatures, adequate lighting, and reliable equipment operation. This can lead to improved employee morale and productivity.

Regulatory Compliance

Many jurisdictions now have regulations and standards to promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Monitoring-based commissioning helps your business meet or exceed these requirements, avoiding fines and penalties.

Asset Longevity

Efficiently managed building systems tend to have a longer lifespan. By continuously monitoring and maintaining equipment, you extend its operational life and postpone costly replacements. This results in significant savings over time.

Data-Driven Decision Making

MBCx empowers you with valuable insights about your building’s performance. It allows you to make informed choices about system upgrades, retrofits, and maintenance schedules. This maximizes your investment in building infrastructure.

Increased Property Value

Well-maintained and energy-efficient buildings are more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Monitoring-based commissioning can increase the market value of your property and make it a more appealing asset for prospective investors or lessees.

See the Results of Our Monitoring-Based CommissioningSolutions

Want to see our services in action? Check out our latest case study to see how a hospital increased energy efficiency and reduced costs by partnering with BuildingLogiX.

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How to Implement Monitoring-Based Commissioning

Assess Your Building’s Needs

Begin by assessing the specific needs and goals of your building. Identify which systems are critical for your operations and what benchmarks you want to achieve regarding energy efficiency and performance.

Hire an MBCx Service Provider

An experienced MBCx service provider is crucial to the success of your project. Look for providers with a proven track record and the expertise to design and implement an MBCx plan for your building.

Install Sensors and Data Collection Devices

Your service provider will install the necessary sensors and data collection devices in your building. These sensors gather data on various aspects of your building’s systems, such as temperature, humidity, occupancy, and energy consumption.

Data Analysis and Benchmarking

Once data collection is in place, the MBCx service provider analyzes the data to establish performance benchmarks and identify areas for improvement. They use specialized software to track deviations from the benchmarks.

Continuous Monitoring and Alerting

Real-time monitoring is a crucial aspect of MBCx. Your provider sets up continuous monitoring and alerting systems to immediately notify you of any issues in your building’s systems. This proactive approach allows for prompt corrective actions.

Implement Corrective Actions

When issues are detected, the MBCx service provider will work with you to implement corrective actions. These may include adjustments to HVAC systems, lighting, equipment maintenance, or even capital upgrades for greater improvements.

Regular Reporting and Documentation

Regular reporting is essential to track the progress of your MBCx efforts. Your provider should provide detailed reports that show how your building’s performance has improved, as well as any cost savings achieved through energy efficiency.

Ongoing Maintenance and Optimization

MBCx is an ongoing process that requires continuous maintenance and optimization. Your service provider should work with you to establish long-term strategies for maintaining your building’s performance and efficiency.

Leverage the Power of MBCx With BuildingLogiX

Partnering with the right provider is vital for maximizing the benefits of MBCx. BuildingLogiX has over 15 years of experience helping businesses increase energy efficiency and extend the useful life of equipment with our MBCx solutions.

Our Connected Building Services give you a data visualization platform that allows your staff to monitor equipment easily. We also offer fault detection and diagnostic software that alerts your staff when inconsistencies are identified.