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Building Management Systems

​What is a Building Management System?

Building Management Systems (BMS), also known as Building Automation Systems (BAS), are computer-based systems installed in buildings to control and monitor the building's mechanical and electrical equipment, such as HVAC, lighting, energy, fire systems, and security systems.

In simple terms, the BMS serves as a central control point for all facilities within a building.

Because the BMS can remotely control heating and ventilation systems from a computer or mobile device, facility management staff do not have to physically walk to each building, floor, or room to shut down, switch on, or manually adjust mechanical devices.

Here are some examples of what the BMS controls:

HVAC Management: The BMS oversees duct conditions, including temperature, pressure, humidity, and exhaust heat levels, triggering alerts if they stray from preset thresholds and ensuring maximal HVAC energy efficiency.

Hot Water and Heating Control: Temperature regulation and pump operations for hot water and central heating are managed by the BMS, assuring proper distribution and functionality.

Chilled Water Oversight: Chiller functions, including temperature control and pump operations, are supervised by the BMS to guarantee proper coolant distribution.

Lighting Control: The system automates lighting operations, adjusting for optimal use and energy savings while maintaining comfort and safety standards.

Electrical Consumption Tracking: The BMS monitors electrical usage and the status of main power switches, offering insights into energy consumption and potential savings.

Fire Safety Sprinkler Oversight: Monitoring of the sprinkler system is incorporated to ensure adherence to fire safety protocols.

Security Systems Management: Surveillance and access control are integrated into the BMS, bolstering building security and response to incidents

In the below diagram, you can see a visual representation of the different systems a BMS controls, including:

Air Handling Units

Heat Pumps

Energy Recovery Ventilators

Variable Refrigerant Fan Coil Unit (Typical)

Ducted Variable Refrigerant Fan Coil Unit in Ceiling

Condensing Unit