Metered Data Analysis and Knowledge Based Methods that Reduce HVAC Operation and Maintenance Problems

Abstract

Recent reports have highlighted a lower than expected level of understanding by some consulting engineers and building operators concerning how to systematically track operation and maintenance problems and provide consistent advice for improving complex systems of the type found in large commercial buildings. Rarely is mention made of permanently installing a system capable of continuously diagnosing problems after the original analysis is complete (MacDonald and Wasserman, in preparation). One system, originally developed at a state university, student recreation center (Rec Center). reduces operation and maintenance problems by analyzing metered consumption data with an expert system. Several papers and reports have been written that describe this particular system, called the Building Energy Analysis Consultant (BEACON) system, how it was developed, its application to four complexes, and it possible future directions (Haberl and Claridge 1987; Haberl et al. 1988). This paper presents additional information concerning the BEACON system, including examples of O&M impacts, a review of the regression analysis employed in the original BEACON system, a description of the knowledge acquisition process, and reports on recent developments to modify and streamline the statistical analysis. Experiences with delivering the prototype software to building administrators and ideas on future directions are also presented.