Blog

February 5, 2013

Commissioning Small Projects

CFMS Consulting Inc. has been busy commissioning Full Day Kindergarten (FDK) additions and / or renovations for York Region District School Board, Simcoe County District School Board and York Catholic District School Board.  As the third year of the five year implementation program draws to an end, I have noted few thing interesting things.

1. When tying a building addition into existing building systems there are special considerations:

–          What is the condition of the existing systems, i.e. What is the condition of the water in the hydronic systems? Is the glycol concentration correct?

–          Are the existing systems, air, water and BAS, operating correctly and meeting the original design intent?

2. It does not matter how small the project, even a single room renovation, commissioning is important to ensure the HVAC and BAS systems are working correctly.  It seems the smaller the project, the lower commissioning can be on the priority list.

These are just a few things to keep in mind when planning a small renovation / addition.  The checking of the above noted items does not need to be costly.  Have a balancing contractor take readings on the fan or pump.  Get your chemical treatment technician to verify the condition of the water and the glycol concentration.  Confirming these items will help to identify if potential issues and avoid problems down the road.

Please do not hesitate to call to discuss the commissioning for your next construction project, whether it be a single room renovation, or a new million square foot building.