the
country, building-industry professionals are finding that
commissioned buildings are more energy efficient, more comfortable,
and easier to maintain.
Commissioning is a quality-assurance process that increases the
likelihood that a new building will meet the client's expectations.
Although commissioning originally was created to ensure that HVAC
systems were properly specified and installed, this process can be
applied to virtually any building system.
Projects all over the country have demonstrated that commissioned
buildings are more energy efficient, more comfortable, and easier
to maintain.
The commissioning process encompasses the entire design and
construction process:
- During the design phase, commissioning begins with the
selection of a commissioning agent - who helps ensure that the
project documentation reflects the designer's and owner's
intentions.
- Next, the designer incorporates commissioning requirements into
the design specifications.
- During construction, the commissioning agent is responsible for
inspecting the building.
- When the project is near completion, the commissioning agent
and contractors conduct rigorous performance tests.
At the end of the commissioning process, the designer and vendors
train the building operators how to properly operate and maintain
the building.
Commissioning a new building typically costs about 30 to 90 cents
per square foot. Usually this is offset by reduced energy costs,
improved occupant comfort and productivity, and reduced "rework"
costs. On average, the simple payback for building commissioning is
about three to four years.
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