The commissioning process can be applied to existing buildings that have never been commissioned to restore them to optimal performance. Retro-commissioning (RCx) is the systematic, documented process that identifies low-cost operational and maintenance improvements and brings the buildings up to the original design intentions.
RCx focuses on energy-using equipment such as mechanical equipment, lighting and related controls and optimizes existing system performance instead of relying on major equipment replacement. There is usually indoor air quality, comfort, controls, energy and resource efficiency.
An improvement in diagnostic monitoring and functional tests of building systems are executed and analyzed. Building systems are retested and remonitored to fine-tune improvements. The RCx procedure helps find and repair operational problems.
Ongoing commissioning is continual retro-commissioning focusing on the effectiveness of completed improvements. Ongoing commissioning involves regularly scheduled session with the building occupants along with operation and maintenance personnel. This process incorporates monitoring and analysis of building performance data provided by permanently installed metering equipment to verify building performance, the satisfaction of the facilities management and staff, and the extent of actual savings.
