How To leverage BEMS Data for Mechanical Contractors

 

Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) provide invaluable data for monitoring and evidencing HVAC system performance. For mechanical contractors, this data can demonstrate the success of upgrades, refurbishments, or installations to clients, ensuring project approval, client satisfaction, and timely payments. Here’s how to effectively use BEMS data.

 

Demonstrating HVAC Performance

 

BEMS data provides measurable, real-time insights into HVAC system performance. Use it to show:

 

• Energy Efficiency: Present data that highlights reduced energy consumption compared to pre-installation or pre-upgrade baselines. For instance, show kWh savings or cost reductions in percentage terms.
• System Responsiveness: Provide data proving that systems are maintaining temperature, humidity, and air quality setpoints within defined tolerances. Use trends to demonstrate consistent performance.
• Reliability: Use alarm and fault logs to show fewer system failures or reduced equipment downtime since the project’s completion.

 

Verifying Compliance with Specifications

 

Clients often require evidence that HVAC systems meet agreed specifications. BEMS data can prove:

 

• Flow Rates and Temperatures: Verify that supply and return temperatures, as well as flow rates, are within the specified ranges.
• Comfort Standards: Evidence that indoor air quality and temperature parameters comply with the agreed design criteria.
• Energy Performance: Prove compliance with standards like BS EN 15232 by showcasing data trends and efficiencies.

 

Using Before-and-After Comparisons

 

Comparing data from before and after the HVAC project is a simple and effective way to showcase improvements:

 

• Baseline Data: Capture system performance data before any upgrades or refurbishments.
• Post-Installation Data: Use the same metrics post-project to highlight key improvements, such as energy savings, more stable temperatures, or better air distribution.
• Visual Reports: Turn raw data into clear, impactful visuals like charts or graphs, making it easier for clients to understand the benefits.

 

Proving Performance for Payment

 

BEMS data is essential for providing hard evidence that installations or upgrades are delivering as promised. This can be critical in securing final payment from clients.

 

• Commissioning Evidence: During commissioning, use BEMS data to show that the system meets operational requirements (e.g., correct temperatures, flow rates, and sequences).
• Warranty and Defects Period Reporting: Generate periodic performance reports during the defects liability or warranty period to show the system is running reliably and efficiently.
• Independent Validation: Provide data for third-party validation if requested by the client to ensure impartial confirmation of system performance.

 

Building Trust and Enhancing Client Relationships

 

Using BEMS data transparently strengthens client relationships and positions you as a trusted partner.

 

• Transparency: Share dashboards or reports with clients to give them real-time visibility of system performance.
• Education: Explain how clients can use BEMS data themselves to monitor and optimize their systems.

 

Supporting Long-Term Business Benefits

 

BEMS data is not just useful for the current project—it can provide insights and benefits for future opportunities.

 

• Case Studies: Use performance data from successful projects to build case studies that showcase your expertise to potential clients.
• Design Refinement: Analyze data trends to refine and improve future HVAC designs, ensuring better performance and efficiency.
• Maintenance Opportunities: Use BEMS data to offer ongoing maintenance or optimization services, creating additional revenue streams.

 

Practical Tips for Using BEMS Data

 

• Collaborate with BEMS Providers: Work closely with the BEMS contractor to configure and access the right data points.
• Focus on Relevant Metrics: Tailor the data presentation to the client’s priorities, such as energy savings or improved comfort levels.
• Use Visuals: Turn raw data into graphs and charts to make it accessible and easy to understand.
• Keep Records: Archive key data and reports for future reference in case of disputes or further requests.

 

Example: HVAC Refurbishment Data in Action

 

Scenario: A mechanical contractor refurbishes a chiller system for a commercial building.

 

Steps Taken:

 

• Use BEMS data to compare pre- and post-refurbishment energy usage, showing a 25% reduction in electricity consumption.
• Provide trend logs demonstrating consistent indoor temperatures within ±1°C of the setpoint post-upgrade.
• Supply runtime data showing the new chiller operates more efficiently, with reduced cycling and improved reliability.

 

Outcome: The client is satisfied with the evidence provided, accepts the project handover, and approves final payment.

 

Conclusion

 

BEMS data is a powerful tool for mechanical contractors to evidence HVAC performance, secure client trust, and ensure timely payments. By leveraging it effectively - whether to demonstrate energy savings, reliability, or system compliance - contractors can strengthen client relationships and maximize the value of their projects. Working collaboratively with the BEMS provider and focusing on clear, impactful data presentation is key to success.