BMS control for HVAC systems and the complexities of successful integration

What is BMS HVAC control?

Building Management Systems (BMS) HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) controls allow users to manage their environment remotely. The BMS acts as one central interface to control all HVAC devices.

It also monitors environmental factors such as:

• Temperature
• Airflow
• Humidity
•  Air quality.

While sensors can monitor these factors, actuators activate the HVAC systems with human intervention. Users adjust environmental settings with digital controllers for comfort.

With this live data, BMS can optimise buildings for energy efficiency. For example, if the temperature increases outside, it can automatically lower the temperature doors.

Integration with AV/home control interfaces

One of the key challenges of BMS HVAC controls is integration. One central system may be controlling several disparate devices. If they are not compatible, they may not respond to user requests.

Mainstream audiovisual tools such as Crestron or Lutron give users a simple interface to control their environment. But if these are not set up correctly, they may fail to achieve basic tasks such as setting the right temperature. As such, we need to be mindful that these interfaces can truly integrate – including sharing data in real time.

This calls for collaboration at the design phase, not the installation phase. Both BMS suppliers and AV engineers need to ensure the system is set up to work together.

It’s also the installer’s responsibility to manage clients’ expectations. For example, they may request a keypad that fits in with their aesthetic – but this must not be to the detriment of functionality. A well-integrated BMS can improve a client’s wellbeing and save on their energy bills. It is our job to communicate this.

Common complexities and technical challenges

Integrators need to be aware of the technical complexities that come with BMS to avoid future problems:

Mismatched communication protocols

Proprietary systems may benefit from one consistent technician, but they limit users. This leads to incompatibility between the HVAC and BMS, causing problems such as mismatched temperatures.

Lack of collaboration

Both systems and professionals must collaborate. Engineers managing a building’s electrical system should collaborate with AV integrators at the design stage.

Inadequate feedback mechanisms

If a user doesn’t know whether or not an HVAC command was successful, there’s no way of telling if the systems are truly compatible.

Inaccurate data readings

Factors such as misplaced sensors may influence data readings. If a thermostat cannot track the right temperature, it could affect the BMS’ decision-making.

Compatibility issues

When connecting multiple systems, there may be issues with interoperability or even security.

Legacy systems

Legacy systems may not integrate with the latest versions or updates, posing further compatibility and security problems.

Variability in HVAC system behaviour

Both regions and vendors may affect how an HVAC system behaves. For example, we might be working with different climates or standards for building and electrical safety.

Best practices for successful BMS HVAC control integration

For the best customer service and successful, compatible BMS HVAC controls, integrators should:

• Collaborate with all stakeholders early in the project, ideally at the design phase
• Work to an open set of standards for flexibility, such as BACnet, Modbus or KNX
•  Install monitoring tools for diagnostics and performance optimisation
• Ensure BMS and AV systems have accurate, user-friendly feedback loops
• Display real-time data on AV interfaces, with the ability to adjust them
• Factor in time for testing and refining system behaviours
• Provide system training to both installers and end users.

Benefits of effective HVAC BMS control integration

A well-integrated HVAC BMS control benefits both installers and end users. Customers enjoy a comfortable environment while also saving on energy bills. In turn, they make fewer service callouts thanks to reduced maintenance.

This enhances user satisfaction and transparency, giving them full autonomy. For the integrator, it may lower maintenance costs and improve their business reputation. They can also communicate these benefits to future clients. For example, with better fault detection and analytics, these systems may even increase a home’s value.