When the heat of summer kicks in, building systems work overtime, especially HVAC. And while comfort is critical, running air conditioning at full blast all day isn’t sustainable or cost-effective.
That’s where your Building Automation System (BAS) comes in.
A well-configured BAS can do much more than automate your building. It can help you proactively reduce HVAC loads, extend equipment life, and cut operating costs during peak heat.
Here are five smart ways to make your BAS work harder so your building doesn’t have to.
1. Optimize Setpoints Based on Occupancy
One of the most effective ways to reduce energy waste is to avoid cooling empty spaces.
With BAS scheduling and zoning, you can:
- Automatically raise temperature setpoints after hours or on weekends
- Customize cooling schedules based on floor usage or tenant needs
- Temporarily override zones for special events or late work crews
By adjusting setpoints based on real occupancy, you’re reducing runtime and extending the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
2. Use Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV)
Ventilation is necessary, but in the summer, bringing in large amounts of hot outdoor air means your HVAC has to work even harder to condition it.
DCV uses CO₂ sensors to determine how much fresh air is truly needed in a space, and modulates airflow accordingly.
This allows your building to:
- Maintain safe indoor air quality
- Reduce energy wasted on over-ventilation
- Respond dynamically to fluctuating occupancy
For buildings with variable use (like schools, conference centers, or hotels), this strategy can have a big impact.
3. Schedule Equipment Staggering
Utility companies often charge extra fees based on your building’s peak demand. That’s the highest amount of energy used at any one time.
If every rooftop unit kicks on at 7:00 AM, you’re hitting your peak and paying for it.
BAS can stagger equipment starts to:
- Spread out power loads
- Avoid simultaneous compressor startup
- Prevent costly demand spikes
This saves money and reduces stress on your system, and helps avoid nuisance trips.
Bonus Tip: Do a Mid-Summer System Tune-Up
Even the best BAS needs a little TLC. Your system should be working with the summer, not against it.
Let Your BAS Be the Hardest Worker This Summer
Need help optimizing your system for the summer heat?
We’re here to help. Click here to schedule a system review or learn how we can support your energy goals.