How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Building Automation Systems


 

Though building automation systems are commonly used in large scale projects, they also offer advantages for smaller commercial operations

Building automation systems are known to make large scale buildings more reliable and energy efficient. But, there is a common misconception that fully automated buildings are too complicated or too expensive for smaller businesses. In reality, automation systems have the capability to make small commercial operations more responsive and efficient, all while giving important insight to contractors. Recently, building automation has become more common for smaller commercial building projects. So what makes automation so great for small commercial properties? Let’s find out!

What is a Building Automation System?

Building automation systems essentially control and monitor all essential features of a commercial space

Some simple renovations and additions are all it takes to automate a small commercial building.

A building automation system, sometimes referred to as a BAS system, is a centralized point of control for any type of building. When each of the building’s internal systems can be controlled from a single point, a building’s mechanical and electrical systems are linked. By integrating your electrical and mechanical systems linked, previously separate entities can now communicate.

Automation also includes ongoing monitoring of each system for any current or future problems. Each system in your building will operate according to a series of sensors that can detect and report any irregularities in operation. So, before anything can go wrong with your plumbing, HVAC, or electrical systems a sensor will give you an early indication of the issue and its location. That way, when you hire a contractor they can easily address the problem with the help of the information pulled from your automated building system.

How Will Small Businesses Benefit from Automation?

Small businesses are missing out on a huge amount of insight into their electrical and mechanical operations

Automation can improve your workspace and your bottom line.

There are a lot of ways that smaller operations can benefit from building automation. Today, we’ll be discussing the three major systems that can be simplified through smart integration. So, let's discuss how automation can improve HVAC, plumbing, and lighting systems for smaller commercial spaces.

HVAC Automation

Small businesses can save a lot of money by integrating their HVAC system into their building automation system. One of the easiest ways to start automating your commercial HVAC is by installing WiFi capable programmable thermostats

Programmable thermostats are relatively cheap and can save companies hundreds of dollars on utility costs. Instead of  turning your heating and cooling systems on and off as needed — which is often a waste of energy — you can program your thermostat to automatically adjust. By relying on automation, you are making sure that all energy used is being used based on your predetermined settings.

Plumbing Automation

By installing plumbing sensors, small businesses can predict and prevent major plumbing issues. When a plumbing issue occurs, it often causes a business to shut down completely. To help avoid a shutdown, businesses can automate their plumbing system to detect problems in key areas.

As part of your building integration, your system will gather and report important data on the status of your plumbing. So, if there is potential for a blockage or a crack in your pipes, the system will notify you before the problem worsens. Another major advantage of an automated plumbing system is the sensor’s ability to pinpoint the location of a potential failure. That way, when you call a contractor they can quickly repair the problem area, saving your business time and money.

Lighting Automation

Small businesses that aren’t using automated lighting are likely overpaying each month on their utility bills. Without automation, lights are often left on in unused rooms or are unable to adapt to changing outdoor lighting. Thankfully, automated lighting eliminates these issues. 

When you install a smart lighting system in your commercial space, you can start reaping the benefits of lighting sensors. Automatic lighting and motion sensors in your building can ensure that lights are only being used when necessary. For example, you can program your lights to only turn on when a room is occupied or when outdoor lighting is insufficient. 

Automated lighting also provides added security for the outside of your building. The same systems that are used to maximize efficiency indoors are also used to prevent burglars from entering your property. Using motion sensors, you can program your outdoor lights to turn on when movement is detected. This added nighttime lighting has been proven to deter potential burglars from entering your property.

So, if you feel like your small business is constantly overpaying on utilities due to inefficient operating systems, automation could be the answer. By integrating the most important systems in your building, you can save money, prevent major issues before they happen, and even increase your building’s security. That's right, building automation systems aren’t just for massive buildings anymore, you can take advantage of this tech to optimize your small business.

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