B_0316_TEM_MetricsBAS

Optimal Metrics for BAS

Feb. 19, 2016

Track key metrics, not data points.

If you aren’t measuring energy consumption, you aren’t managing it. Most FMs don’t need to learn that fact. But how exactly to measure it and what metrics to use?

The ongoing tactic and long-term strategy must involve performance tracking. The rub is that building automation systems (BAS) can generate such deep and fast-moving rivers of data that it is hard for operators to pan the gold nuggets that lead to profitable outcomes. It can also be so time consuming that few can stick to it.

The solution is to track key metrics, not data points. A metric merges data from multiple points into a measurement that provides ready-to-act-on insight. Older automation systems may not offer slick dashboards, but operators can still create and display data to glean money-saving information.

Two Methods for Tracking Metrics

In its Building Performance Tracking Handbook: Continuous Improvement for Every Building, the California Energy Commission (CEC) supplies an example of the difference between data and metrics.

While collecting data on indoor zone temperatures provides useful information, over time the size of the data becomes immense. Instead, an operator can create a metric that tracks the percent of time when zones maintain their temperature setpoints. At a glance, this metric displays the key information.

Ideally each metric should have a target associated with it. If questions and anomalies arise, operators can drill down into the data as necessary.

A BAS can be used to track metrics in two complementary ways:

  • Charts or plots that display patterns over days, weeks, months and years
  • Values (averages, minimum/maximums and percentages)

With such patterns displayed, operators can get an instinctive feeling for how changing occupancy, weather and other variables affect HVAC efficiency.

The most common energy metrics are cost or energy units per square foot per year. Most do not have hard values or limits, which is to say that operators learn over time how their buildings perform.

For more information, download The Building Performance Tracking Handbook at the CEC’s website (www.cacx.org).

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...