The key role of controls in successful refurbishments
A director of Automated Building Control Group has called for more attention to be paid to building-management systems and environmental controls when refurbishment projects are being planned. Paul Morall explains, ‘More often than not, we are called in at the 11th hour to put right problems that the refurbishment has created, such as partioned rooms that are too hot or too cold, too noisy or too dark. These basic errors can create tremendously inefficient energy utilisation and the overloading of mechanical services.’
Another of his concerns is the installation of expensive plant while obsolete controls are lift in place — resulting in premature system failure and ongoing maintenance problems.
He warns, ‘This lack of focus on BMS at the planning and design stage of building refurbishment can result in unpleasant working conditions, high post-refurb energy costs and expensive maintenance regimes. In the worst cases, it can make the refurbishment uninhabitable.
‘BMS specialists like the ABC Group want to work with architects and construction companies to deliver refurbishments that last, work efficiently and provide the good working conditions that make for happy clients.’
