In today’s world, everyone needs to be making efforts to ‘go green’. Carbon emissions are taking over the atmosphere producing climate change. If the right steps aren’t taken, this could lead to dire consequences.
Buildings are responsible for much of the emissions going into the environment. They account for:
- 68% of energy consumption
- 38% of carbon dioxide emissions
- 12% of total water consumption
- 39% of total energy use
The question is, what can we do to make buildings consume less energy and produce fewer emissions? Commissioning can help.
Commissioning involves performing inspections to ensure a building is running efficiently and that all systems are working together properly in accordance with design plans. Agents can pinpoint inefficiencies and create solutions that help limit waste.
This article will review the issues a commissioning agent can identify to get buildings running at their best.
Water Consumption
Uncontrolled storm water runoff can lead to flooding, eroded stream banks and sewage pollutants. Buildings should have a sustainable design process in terms of their water consumption and runoff management. They should reduce, control and manage stormwater runoff and attempt to reduce water use through their landscape design.
Low flow faucets and toilets, the utilization of greywater systems, and the optimization of heating and cooling systems for efficient water use should also be integrated throughout the interior and exterior of the property.
Energy Consumption
Energy consumption can be minimized by installing systems that utilize wind, solar and geothermal sources. Agents can ensure that solar panels receive adequate daylight and wind turbines have access to consistent wind as per the design plans. An energy efficient lighting design, optimal daylighting and properly maintained HVAC systems can also assist with this goal.
Improve Indoor Environment
A healthy indoor environment will lower energy use while improving the mood and health of the occupants. Buildings should follow design plans to make the most of maximum daylight. The proper ventilation and moisture control will remove odors and indoor pathogens to boost indoor air quality.
Optimizing Energy Efficient Operational and Maintenance Practices
Designers can identify materials and systems that will limit the use of water and energy and customize them to ensure they are the best fit for the building. They can also include meters that analyze energy use to ensure systems are reducing costs and waste. Commissioning agents will see to it that these systems are doing their job in keeping the building green.
A Smart Infrastructure
A building’s infrastructure design can aid with energy efficiency. The right lighting placement, humidity controls, temperature adjustments, materials, insulation, and heating and cooling systems contribute to an elimination of waste.
The building designer is the one to implement energy efficient systems in the building. The commissioning agent sees to it that these systems are running according to plan.
When it’s time to find out if your building is running efficiently, call 5D’s first. We have experience troubleshooting complex systems and we strive to create lasting relationships with our clients. We will see to it that your building is doing its part in saving the environment.