Summer BAS Checklist
As temperatures rise, your commercial HVAC system works harder to keep occupants comfortable and operations running smoothly. But even the most efficient equipment can struggle if your building automation system (BAS) isn’t optimized for summer conditions.
A properly configured building automation system does more than control temperatures—it helps improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, identify equipment issues early, and maintain occupant comfort throughout the cooling season.
At Level One HVAC, we help commercial building owners and facility managers maximize the performance of their HVAC systems through advanced controls, building automation solutions, and preventative maintenance.
What Is a Building Automation System?
A Building Automation System (BAS) is a centralized control system that monitors and manages a building’s HVAC equipment and other building systems.
Rather than adjusting thermostats manually, a BAS allows facility managers to automatically control equipment based on schedules, occupancy, weather conditions, and building demand.
Many systems can monitor:
- Heating and cooling equipment
- Rooftop units (RTUs)
- Chillers and boilers
- Air handlers
- Ventilation systems
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
- Temperature and humidity levels
- Equipment alarms
- Energy usage
With the right controls in place, building managers gain greater visibility into how their HVAC systems are performing.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Evaluate Your BAS
During the hottest months of the year, HVAC equipment often operates for longer periods and under greater demand. Small inefficiencies that go unnoticed during milder weather can become expensive problems in the summer.
Reviewing your building automation system before peak cooling season can help ensure your HVAC system is operating at its best.
Benefits of Optimizing Your Building Automation System
Lower Energy Costs
One of the biggest advantages of a BAS is reducing unnecessary energy use.
Your system can automatically:
- Adjust temperatures during unoccupied hours
- Optimize equipment runtimes
- Reduce simultaneous heating and cooling
- Control ventilation based on occupancy
- Improve overall equipment efficiency
These adjustments can significantly reduce monthly utility bills.
Improved Occupant Comfort
No one wants hot and cold spots throughout a building.
Building automation systems continuously monitor indoor conditions and make adjustments to maintain more consistent temperatures throughout the facility.
This leads to:
- More comfortable workspaces
- Improved employee productivity
- Better customer experiences
- Fewer comfort complaints
Early Detection of HVAC Problems
Many BAS platforms can identify issues before they become costly breakdowns.
Your system may detect:
- Temperature deviations
- Equipment alarms
- Sensor failures
- Airflow issues
- Fan or motor problems
- Abnormal operating trends
Addressing these issues early helps reduce emergency repairs and unexpected downtime.
Better Equipment Performance
Running HVAC equipment only when it’s needed reduces wear and tear.
Optimized scheduling and automated controls help:
- Extend equipment lifespan
- Reduce short cycling
- Improve operating efficiency
- Lower maintenance costs
Over time, these improvements can significantly reduce the total cost of ownership.
Summer BAS Checklist
Before temperatures peak, consider reviewing the following:
Review Occupancy Schedules
Have employee schedules changed?
Updating occupied and unoccupied schedules ensures equipment isn’t cooling empty buildings.
Verify Temperature Setpoints
Check that cooling setpoints are appropriate for both comfort and energy efficiency.
Even small adjustments can reduce energy consumption without affecting occupants.
Inspect Sensors
Faulty temperature or humidity sensors can cause equipment to operate inefficiently.
Verify that sensors are calibrated and communicating properly.
Monitor Equipment Runtime
Look for units that are running longer than expected.
Extended runtimes may indicate:
- Dirty filters
- Low refrigerant
- Failing components
- Poor airflow
- Control issues
Check Alarm Notifications
Ensure alarms are active and reaching the appropriate personnel.
Responding quickly to alerts can prevent larger equipment failures.
Review Energy Trends
Compare current energy usage to previous months or years.
Unexpected increases may indicate equipment problems or opportunities for optimization.
Signs Your Building Automation System Needs Attention
Your controls may need updating if you notice:
- Rising utility bills
- Frequent occupant comfort complaints
- HVAC equipment running after hours
- Simultaneous heating and cooling
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Difficulty monitoring equipment remotely
- Older or unsupported control systems
Modern building automation systems provide greater flexibility, improved reporting, and better visibility into overall building performance.
Building Automation and Preventative Maintenance
A BAS works best when paired with a comprehensive preventative maintenance program.
Routine maintenance ensures that:
- Filters remain clean
- Sensors stay calibrated
- Motors and belts operate properly
- Refrigerant levels are correct
- Controls continue functioning accurately
Together, building automation and preventative maintenance create a proactive approach to HVAC management that improves reliability and reduces operating costs.
Partner with Level One HVAC
At Level One HVAC, we help commercial building owners and facility managers get the most from their HVAC systems through expert building automation, HVAC controls, preventative maintenance, and energy-efficient solutions.
Whether you’re looking to optimize an existing BAS, upgrade outdated controls, or install a new automation system, our experienced team can help improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and keep your facility operating efficiently all summer long.
Contact Level One HVAC today to learn more about our Building Automation and HVAC Controls services throughout Michigan.
Serving all of Michigan
Call: 844-616-4822