BAS stands for Building Automation Systems. Basically, it involves controlling HVAC equipment so it can manage itself and provide energy savings. In my understanding, BAS is composed of controllers, inputs, and outputs, and it can be managed remotely thanks to the building computer network and the internet.

Because devices from different control manufacturers need to communicate, it’s required to use a language or a protocol. That’s why open protocols are used among manufacturers—examples include BACnet and Modbus. There are also different human interfaces through software or web-based platforms. In reality, every system can be coordinated to achieve comfort and energy savings through scheduling, alarms, and monitoring.

Now, what intrigues me is troubleshooting and finding solutions. I want to be able to diagnose these systems deeply and efficiently. More importantly, I want to be able to bring solutions. What do I mean by that? When I receive a work order for a comfort issue, I usually face the inconvenience of some air terminal unit (ATU) not responding or not delivering the desired airflow or temperature to the area—such as a room, office, etc.

What is it caused by? Is it a sensor, an output component like a chilled water valve, or simply that the settings need to be adjusted? Or, definitely, could the controller itself have failed? The big obstacle has always been discerning the “brain”—is the controller doing its job? I’ll keep posted on my progress.

Today, I start this blog with the idea of sharing work and improvement of skills, highlighting the importance of being consistent and perseverant.