Episode Description:
In episode 489 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we bring you a roundtable conversation designed specifically for building automation professionals who are hands-on in the field. This episode puts the focus on your day-to-day challenges and opportunities, offering perspectives from our Instructors who know exactly what you’re dealing with.
This is not about theory. It’s about the real decisions you make, the systems you work with, and the outcomes you are expected to deliver. Whether you're working on new construction, dealing with legacy systems, or navigating the increasing complexity of today’s controls, this episode gives you the pulse of what's happening right now in the BAS world.
Inside this episode, we’ll explore topics like:
- Common reasons commissioning and recommissioning are skipped and how that impacts performance
- How the BAS landscape is shifting between standardized and highly customized designs
- The overlooked complexities of retrofitting older buildings and systems
- Where wireless sensors are gaining traction and what challenges still exist
- The expanding role of technicians from configuration to owner training
This episode is your opportunity to hear the kinds of discussions you probably wish were happening more often on the job. Listen in, learn from your peers, and apply new insights on your next project.
Click here to download or listen to this episode now.Podcast Video
What You Need to Know About Commissioning, Retrofits, and BAS Trends: Insights from Podcast 489
In Smart Buildings Academy Podcast episode 489, Michael Roper is joined by Joe Hulsey and Matt Scott for a roundtable conversation packed with practical insights for building automation professionals. This episode isn’t about theory or high-level concepts. It’s focused on the challenges and decisions faced every day by those working in building automation systems (BAS), especially in commissioning, retrofits, and the evolving tech landscape.
Why Commissioning Still Gets Overlooked
The conversation kicks off with a discussion about why commissioning and recommissioning are often underfunded or skipped altogether. Budget constraints, project burnout, and lack of client awareness were just a few of the reasons explored. The team emphasizes the value of recommissioning, particularly for catching issues like sensor drift, failed sequences, and overrides that reduce system efficiency.
Technicians: The Unsung Heroes of Commissioning
BAS technicians play a critical role in successful commissioning. Their ability to spot problems early, adjust systems in real time, and train building operators makes them an essential part of any project. The panel discusses how good documentation and a proactive mindset can make a huge difference in system performance and long-term maintenance.
New Construction vs. Retrofit: Where the Industry is Headed
The team then pivots to trends in BAS design for new construction and retrofits. In new builds, some standardization is happening, especially in retail and education sectors. However, complex facilities still demand high levels of customization. Retrofitting older buildings comes with its own set of challenges, from outdated wiring to physical space constraints. The importance of experienced estimators was also highlighted as key to reducing risk in retrofit projects.
The Wireless Debate
Wireless BAS components have been in development for over a decade, and their use is becoming more common. The panel shares where wireless excels and where it still struggles. While wireless sensors are ideal for remodel-heavy environments or post-project add-ons, issues like communication reliability and battery life still create hesitations for full-scale adoption.
Why This Episode Matters
If you're in the field and facing questions about project budgets, system design, technology upgrades, or long-term system health, this episode speaks directly to you. It’s a grounded discussion focused on real experiences from the job site, with actionable takeaways and thoughtful insights into where the industry is headed.
For a full breakdown of the conversation, listen to the full episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast.
