Episode Description:
Commissioning can make or break the success of your BAS projects. But it’s more than just a checklist.
This episode challenges how you approach commissioning, offering practical insight and proven tactics to ensure reliable startups every time.
If you're dealing with rushed schedules, inconsistent installs, or unclear field communication, this episode is for you.
Topics Covered
Get the guidance you need to simplify your startups and boost system performance.
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Commissioning is not just another step in the project cycle. It is the foundation of system performance and reliability. In Episode 524 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Ethan Morris breaks down what it means to commission effectively and how to avoid the traps that slow down or compromise your BAS installations.
Commissioning is often misunderstood as a simple startup checklist. In reality, it is a comprehensive quality assurance process. It verifies that all systems are installed correctly, operate as designed, and meet the building owner's requirements.
Skipping this step or treating it as an afterthought can result in system failures, callbacks, and unhappy clients.
A clear and repeatable workflow helps teams stay aligned. Starting with physical verification of device installations ensures you catch errors early. Testing fail-safes, labeling wiring, and documenting with photos provide clarity for both the current team and future technicians.
Digital forms and real-time issue tracking streamline the process. These steps also help build trust with the client by showing clear evidence of the work completed.
The episode outlines key pitfalls that can derail a project:
Skipping documentation
Assuming installations are correct without verification
Rushing through functional testing
Failing to communicate with other trades
These issues are preventable. A deliberate approach, even under deadline pressure, will save time in the long run by reducing rework.
When problems do arise, the ability to troubleshoot efficiently is critical. Knowing what to test first, how to isolate problems, and where to look for documentation are skills that set experienced professionals apart from the rest.
Field-tested tactics like labeling wires at both ends and maintaining a log of all issues and resolutions provide structure and speed when responding to issues.
Reliable BAS startups are not about luck. They are the result of consistent processes, attention to detail, and clear communication. By applying the strategies discussed in this episode, building automation professionals can reduce risk, save time, and deliver buildings that perform better.
For a deeper discussion and insights from the field, listen to this episode on the Smart Buildings Academy podcast.