8 Tips for Commissioning Daylighting Controls

The benefits of daylighting are well-known, but do you know how to optimize it?

The Energy Center of Wisconsin shares tips on commissioning your daylighting system to ensure optimal performance.

1. In addition to fine-tuning the daylighting control system itself, make sure the commissioning agent trains your FM team on how to troubleshoot, make adjustments for occupant complaints, and adapt the system to space changes.
2. Use blinds to simulate different levels of daylight while calibrating the newly installed system.
3. Calibrate all sensors and controls after the space is occupied – preferably with occupants, but at least with furniture.
4. Remember to adjust sensor locations or orientations if furniture or other interior items have changed since the daylighting setup was designed.
5. Don’t assume that initial nighttime light levels are equal to the illuminance specified in the original design.
6. Your body will interfere with light levels on nearby workspaces during calibration. Either use a remote or step away for a few minutes before taking illuminance readings.
7. Save time by shortening the fade rate and deadband settings before calibration, which ensures that the controls respond immediately. Reset the values before testing the deadband and fade rate or before completion.
8. Use an ammeter to measure the circuit electrical current while you’re calibrating the controls. This will help you determine whether you’re achieving the proper power reduction.

To learn more about daylighting control commissioning, visit www.ecw.org.