subject: Using A Building Management System [print this page] What is a Building Management System? What is a Building Management System?
A computer based control system, a Building Management System is installed in buildings in order to control and monitor both mechanical and electrical equipment within a building such as ventilation, power systems and lighting. A Building Management System can also be used to control and monitor fire systems and security systems - it's a great way to save both time and money.
Most common in larger buildings, a Building Management System has the core function of managing the environment within the building, and in some cases controlling the temperature, humidity and carbon dioxide levels. The major role of a Building Management System is to control heating and cooling within the building, distributing air throughout the building accordingly, achieving the desired room temperature. Another function of a Building Management System is to monitor the human levels of CO2 that is generated, using air from outside mixed with waste air in order to lift the levels of oxygen (extremely important!).
The functions of a Building Management System
A Building Management System has three basic functions:
1. Controlling
2. Optimising
3. Monitoring
All 3 of these functions bring benefits to a business using the system.
The benefits of a Building Management System
There are a number of benefits of operating a Building Management System for both the tenants and owner of a building. Examples include:
* Controlling internal conditions
* Monitor and target energy consumption
* Higher rental value
* Flexibility - easily change the use of the building
Building Management Systems have been used for as long as commercial properties have been in existence. In the past, manpower has used coal and coal fired boilers in order to allow heated water to flow through a radiator system. In addition, manpower also used water pipe valves to control the amount of heated water flowing through such systems.
If you're interested in properly controlling and monitoring your building you need to consider a Building Management System.
