Building Commissioning / Retro Commissioning

Maine Controls sees the parallel of the origination of the term commissioning, which comes from shipbuilding. Since Maine is populated with government and privately based shipbuilders throughout the state, many can draw on the analogy of a commissioned ship which is one that is deemed ready for service at sea. Before being awarded this title, however, a ship must pass several milestones. Equipment is installed and tested, problems are identified and corrected, and the prospective crew is extensively trained. A commissioned ship is one whose materials, systems, and staff have successfully completed a thorough quality assurance process.

Maine Controls Building Commissioning programs takes the same approach to new buildings. When a building is initially commissioned it undergoes an intensive quality assurance process that begins during design and continues through construction, occupancy, and operations. Commissioning ensures that the new building operates initially as the owner or engineering designer intended and that building staff are prepared to operate and maintain its systems and equipment.

Conversely, Maine Controls Retrocommissioning programs are the application of the commissioning process to existing buildings. Retrocommissioning is a process that seeks to improve how building equipment and systems function together. Depending on the age of the building, retrocommissioning can often resolve problems that occurred during design or construction, or address problems that have developed throughout the building's life. In all, retrocommissioning improves a building's operations and maintenance (O&M) procedures to enhance overall building performance.

The Maine Controls Recommissioning program is another type of commissioning that occurs when a building that has already been commissioned undergoes another commissioning process. The decision to recommission may be triggered by a change in building use or ownership, the onset of operational problems, or some other need. Ideally, a plan for recommissioning is established as part of a new building's original commissioning process or an existing building's retrocommissioning process.

Regardless if your facility requires Commissioning, Retrocommissioning or Recommissioning, the Maine Controls Team stands ready to optimize your buildings performance with our team of building specialists.