Commissioning:

A University Perspective

May 3, 2006

Rebuild Michigan WorkshopAdvanced Energy Technologies for

Commercial Buildings

Terry Pahl, P.E., LEED, Facilities Engineer

Grand Valley State UniversityEnergy Department

Energy

EstimatesUtilities

CxP Project Management

Technical Assistance

EMS

Budgets

EquipmentLEED/Energy Star

Commissioning

Commissioning - Defined What Commissioning Does Not Solve Reasons for Commissioning The Commissioning Process Commissioning Findings Recommendations

Commissioning - Defined

Verify and ensure that fundamental building elements and systems are designed, installed and calibrated to operate as intended.

AHU System

Testing Controls

What Commissioning Does Not Solve

Does not correct an improper design of the building or systems within the building.

Steel Beam Penetrations

What Commissioning Does Not Solve

Does not correct an improper design of the building or systems within the building.

Does not correct a poorly constructed building or poor installation of the building systems.

Poor Conduit Connection

Reasons for Commissioning

Design and construction errors are identified early.

Building system errors are identified early. Energy savings. Operational savings. Satisfied clients

The Commissioning Process - Past

Historically In-house staffCursory inspectionsPunch list

Gold Certified – LEED Building

Michigan Alternative Renewable Energy Center

Silver Certified – LEED Building

Lake Ontario Hall

The Commissioning Process - Present

Current Engage a commissioning authority. Develop design intent and basis of design documentation. Include commissioning requirements in the construction

documents. Develop and utilize a commissioning plan. Verify installation, functional, performance, training and

documentation. Complete a commissioning report.

Current - additional Review the design prior to the CDs. Review the CDs prior to completion. Review selected commissioned equipment submittals. Develop a system and energy management manual. Contract for near-warranty or post-occupancy review.

Commissioning Findings . . .

Duct Connection

Duct Connection

Duct Connection

Flexible Connection

Proper Duct Seal During Construction

Missing Insulation

Leaks

Improper Return Duct Seal During Construction

Proper Return Duct Seal During Construction

Proper Duct Seal During Construction

Design Issue

Construction Issue

Design Issue

Construction Issue

Recommendations

Choose your design firms and contractors based on their commitment to detail and solving problems.

Always commission. In-house Outsource

Strengthen specifications to include commissioning tasks.

Add the commission costs as part of the budget process.