Retro-Commissioning Provides a Cost-Effective Alternative to Replacement

Many older or poorly maintained buildings have veered off their intended design. This negatively impacts occupant comfort and energy consumption and puts undo stress on the facilities team.

The purpose of retro commissioning (RCx) is to identify and correct the deficiencies within a building that are preventing the building from operating as it was commissioned and designed. Once a building is retro commissioned, any energy conservation measures implemented will perform at peak efficiency due to the surrounding equipment starting from an optimized baseline.

The benefit of the RCx process is that by first identifying the deficiencies, equipment can be repaired and refurbished, thereby achieving the same result as replacing the equipment. Unlike other companies who might recommend a “rip and replace” approach, CM3’s RCx process offers a different strategy that is industry-recognized and provides proven results.

And, an optional MBCx (Monitor-Based Commissioning) can be put in place to better realize benefits and ensure performance.

The CM3 RCx solution:

• a systematic process that quickly identifies deficiencies and allows for repairs based on severity and impact.
• performed by a standardized review and test of each mechanical system. 
• provides a comprehensive findings report and corrective actions recommendations.
• may be eligible for utility rebates, which CM3 will help you identify and qualify for.
• Upon approval by the customer, the repairs can then be performed and the system commissioned.

Retro-Commissioning

Testing: Pre-functional

• • Verification of original installation
  • Documentation of mechanical faults

Testing: Functional Testing

• • Test and verify DDC or Pneumatic outputs.
  • Verification of DDC analog inputs using calibrated testing equipment
  • Verification of Digital inputs and safeties where applicable

Reporting

Equipment Overview Report

• • Includes pre-functional and Functional testing documents along with photographs and notes from field personnel

Corrective Action Report

• • Corrective Actions are itemized by building then by unit. Each issue regardless of size or impact will have a single line entry and photograph (where applicable)

Repairs

The CM3 RCx process identifies the corrective actions and repairs which must be taken to bring the system back to its optimum state. The CM3 corrective actions report designates repairs by trade and severity to allow for optimal ROI.

Upon approval by the customer, the identified repairs and refurbishment can be performed with some repairs completed overnight (as appropriate) to minimize downtime of equipment.

Once complete, the system is commissioned to ensure that proper unit operation has been achieved.

Continuous Performance Validation (MBCx)

CM3 also offers additional monitor-based commissioning services. With this solution, repairs and unit functionality are verified and continuously monitored to ensure the building and equipment continues performing as it was commissioned.