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In Episode 474 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we delve deep into the intricacies of 100% outdoor air units (OAUs). For building automation professionals, mastering these systems is critical, especially in high-stakes environments like operating rooms, clean rooms, and data centers. Whether youâre a seasoned technician or just starting your journey in HVAC controls, this episode unpacks the nuances that can make or break the performance of OAUs.
Join us as we explore how to prevent common pitfalls and enhance system performance. You'll walk away with practical insights and a fresh perspective on state-based control strategies that could revolutionize your approach to HVAC systems.
Key Topics Covered: The vital role of state-based control in HVAC troubleshooting and programming. Common issues with 100% outdoor air units in extreme weather conditions. The interplay between preheat, cooling, and reheat sequences. Ensuring safety and efficiency with damper status and static pressure controls. Humidity control strategies for maintaining precise environmental conditions.Dive into this episode to gain actionable knowledge on optimizing OAU performance and to hear insights that could transform how you approach control sequences.
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Podcast Summary for SBA 473: HVAC Control Sequences Part 3
Unlock the secrets to mastering HVAC control sequences in this engaging episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. Episode 473 dives into the intricate world of air handling units, revealing insights every building automation professional needs to optimize performance and troubleshoot with precision.
Join the conversation as we explore critical ideas that directly impact your projects and systems. Whether you're designing, programming, or maintaining airside systems, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom to elevate your skills.
Key Topics Covered:
Understanding the role of airflow as the foundation of temperature and humidity control. Exploring the mechanics behind constant air volume (CAV) and variable air volume (VAV) systems. Demystifying economizer control for energy-efficient ventilation and free cooling. Key safety measures for air handling units and their impact on system performance. Advanced sequences for occupancy, ventilation, and environmental quality control.Donât miss this chance to deepen your expertise and gain practical strategies for real-world application. Tune in live on Thursday, December 12th, at 8 AM EST / 5 AM PST, or catch the episode anytime on your favorite podcast platform.
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SBA 472: HVAC Control Sequences Part 2
Struggling with airside systems? Whether it's fan coil units, rooftop units, or handling building pressurization, this episode dives into the essential airside control sequences every BAS professional must master. Understand the foundations of air movement and control to elevate your expertise and efficiency in the field.
đ This episode focuses on practical concepts for navigating real-world challenges in airside systems, ensuring you're equipped to tackle them with confidence.
Key Topics Covered:
Fan Coil Units: What makes them unique and where they shine in specific applications. Rooftop Units: Explore their role in airside control and how economizers enhance energy efficiency. Pressurization Basics: Why building pressurization is critical and how to maintain it effectively. Airflow Management: Insights into supply, exhaust, and volumetric offsets for optimal performance. Key Safety Features: How condensate alarms, dampers, and other safeguards protect your systems. -
Are HVAC control sequences leaving you puzzled? Whether youâre a technician, programmer, or designer in the building automation industry, this episode is your starting point for mastering the critical systems that shape modern smart buildings. Join us for Part 1 of our eight-part deep dive into HVAC control sequences, focusing on one of the most common systems you'll encounter: VAV boxes. This is the knowledge you need to solve issues faster, design smarter, and build your confidence with one of the most misunderstood aspects of BAS.
Key Topics Covered:
VAV Boxes Demystified: Discover the core principles behind variable air volume (VAV) boxes and their essential role in zone temperature control. Troubleshooting Made Clear: Learn why most BAS issues occur at the box level and how mastering this can maximize efficiency across systems. Control Loops Simplified: Unpack the unique âloop within a loopâ concept for VAV box control, essential for effective programming and operation. Transition to Reheat: Explore the differences between cooling-only boxes and those with reheat, including key considerations for setpoints and sensor placement. Fan-Powered Box Insights: Understand the contrasting roles of series and parallel fan-powered boxes and when to use each for optimal performance.This episode is packed with practical insights and concepts that will change the way you approach HVAC systems. If you're looking to deepen your expertise and stay ahead in the field, this series is for you.
đ Catch it live: Thursday, November 28th at 8 AM EST / 5 AM PST.
Donât miss the start of this must-listen series for building automation professionals. -
Are you trying to break into the building automation field or help someone who is? Episode 470 of SBA offers a roadmap for landing your first job in this dynamic industry. This episode is all about actionable advice for anyone seeking to understand how building automation careers work, what skills you actually need, and how to connect with hiring managers â even if youâre just starting out.
Discover the fundamentals of a career in building automation and understand the steps needed to make yourself stand out. Whether youâre an entry-level candidate or transitioning from a different role, this episode reveals the secrets to positioning yourself as the candidate companies want.
Hereâs what youâll learn:
Why building automation is a promising career path with rapid growth opportunities How to navigate and understand job descriptions in this field Ways to gain hands-on experience before you even apply Unconventional yet effective strategies for getting noticed by hiring managers The essential skills you need to focus on to increase your value and hit the ground runningListen in for the insights and inspiration to get hired and start your journey in building automation.
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Ready to elevate your service business and tap into new revenue streams? In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy podcast, we dive into key strategies to expand your building automation service business, specifically focusing on owner-direct work. If you're in the BAS industry, this episode is packed with insights on how to stand out, grow your client base, and create a reliable income stream with service offerings. Phil brings his experience from the field and trade show conversations to highlight why and how service businesses can be a game-changer for automation professionals.
Tune in on Thursday, November 7th at 8 AM EST (6 AM MST) and discover practical approaches that could transform your business.
Key Topics:
Understanding the advantages of owner-direct work A step-by-step process for launching or scaling a service business The power of customer retention in a rapidly changing market Tips to build a playbook that keeps your team efficient and aligned Strategies to double your service business in just six monthsFind out how you can streamline and grow your BAS service business!
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Episode Description:
Episode 468 explores advanced airside HVAC sequences, offering building automation professionals an in-depth look at ASHRAE's Guideline 36. This episode unpacks strategies for optimizing energy efficiency through standardized control sequences, helping listeners understand how to achieve predictable and repeatable system performance. You'll gain insights into best practices and considerations for implementing these strategies across different building scenarios, with a focus on practical, real-world applications.
Key takeaways youâll get:
The Principles of Trim and Response: Understand how this control strategy minimizes energy use while maintaining optimal HVAC performance. Handling Zone Requests and Zone Groups: Learn about managing cooling and heating demands across multiple zones for better system efficiency. Implementing Economizer Control: Discover how to leverage outdoor air conditions for free cooling to reduce energy consumption. Effective Reheat Control Techniques: Explore how reheat strategies can improve comfort, especially in colder climates. Key Factors for New Builds and Retrofits: Get guidance on sensor calibration, system integration, and adapting strategies for project success.Tune in to SBA 468 to enhance your understanding of Guideline 36 and elevate the performance of your building automation systems.
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In episode 467 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, youâll dive deep into BACnet Testing Laboratories (BTL) and how understanding BTL listings can significantly impact your work in building automation. Whether youâre a contractor taking over a building or a facility manager looking to specify BACnet systems, this episode offers essential insights into device capabilities, interoperability, and conformance. By the end of the episode, youâll be equipped to make smarter decisions regarding BACnet device selection and deployment.
Key Topics: Understanding BTL Listings: Learn how to interpret protocol implementation conformance sheets and what they reveal about device capabilities. Device Profiles and Interoperability: Explore the different BACnet profiles (such as AAC, B-BC) and how they apply to your systems. Functional Groups and Building Blocks: A breakdown of BACnet interoperability blocks, like data sharing, alarming, and trending. Network Capabilities: Discover how network compatibility impacts system integration and device communication. The Role of BACnet Testing Laboratories: Why BTL certification matters and how it ensures system functionality and compliance.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of BACnet standards and BTL listings. Listen now to stay ahead in your building automation projects.
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Episode 466: How to Find, Develop, and Retain Your Building Operators addresses one of the most pressing challenges in the building automation industry today: the growing shortage of skilled building operators. In this episode, youâll gain insights into how to effectively attract, train, and retain talent in an increasingly competitive market. While contractors are pulling operators away, there are key strategies facilities can use to combat this trend and keep their teams strong.
In this episode, you'll explore:
Why finding skilled operators is getting harder and how to tap into overlooked talent pools. Proven methods for developing operators through hands-on training and systematic onboarding processes. The unique benefits facilities can leverage to retain operators, beyond just salary. How creating a culture of continuous learning and growth can boost employee loyalty. The long-term value of development plans and creative employee recognition programs.If youâre looking to keep your facility running smoothly by building a loyal and skilled team, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn more about the steps you can take to future-proof your operations.
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Episode 465 dives into the emerging presence of robots and collaborative robots (Cobots) in the construction industry and their potential impact on building automation professionals. With labor shortages and advancements in automation technology, the trades are ripe for transformation, and understanding how robots might complement or replace certain tasks is crucial.
In this episode, you'll explore:
The rise of Cobots and their potential role alongside humans on job sites. The impact of robots on repetitive, highly predictable tasks in the skilled trades. How advances in AI and machine learning could change project management and task automation. The future of skilled trades in the age of robotsâwhat jobs are safe for now, and which might be at risk? The emotional and existential implications of automation on the workforce.Donât miss out on how these changes may affect your role in building automation and where to focus your efforts to remain indispensable. Tune in to gain insights on the future of the industry and your place in it!
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In episode 464 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you'll explore the game-changing ways ChatGPT can enhance your work as a building automation professional. From troubleshooting and system design to programming and sales strategies, this episode is packed with practical examples of how AI can streamline your daily tasks and drive innovation in your projects.
Key topics youâll dive into:
âșLeveraging AI to simplify sales pitches and proposals
âșEnhancing troubleshooting techniques with AI-generated insights
âșUsing ChatGPT to assist in creating sequences of operations
âșAutomating programming tasks for BAS systems
âșUnlocking AIâs potential in facility design and optimizationIf you're ready to see how AI can transform your approach to building automation, this episode is a must-listen!
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In episode 463 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you'll discover how to transform your facility's operations using actionable strategies designed to improve efficiency, extend equipment life, and reduce downtime. This episode focuses on practical steps that facility managers and operators can take today to optimize their building systems. Whether youâre looking to cut costs, streamline your processes, or simply stay ahead of potential issues, this episode offers guidance thatâs easy to understand and implement.
Key topics you'll explore in this episode:
- How to simplify and organize your facility's critical documentation
- The role of preventative practices in minimizing unexpected breakdowns
- Tools for managing maintenance and tracking performance
- Proactive monitoring techniques to detect and address issues before they escalate
- Training tips for building a versatile and knowledgeable teamIf you're ready to take control of your facilityâs operations and avoid costly disruptions, this episode is a must-listen!
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In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito discusses five practical strategies to help facility managers reduce their facility's energy consumption. Phil emphasizes the importance of optimizing existing resources and implementing simple changes that can lead to significant energy savings without the need for extensive retraining or costly upgrades. By focusing on these actionable steps, facilities can better manage energy demands and consumption, ultimately contributing to cost savings and sustainability goals.
Key Takeaways:
Optimize Schedules: Adjust building, floor, and space schedules to align with actual occupancy patterns, significantly reducing unnecessary energy usage. Check Sensor Calibration: Regularly verify the calibration of sensors, especially those related to temperature and air quality, to ensure accurate system responses and prevent energy waste. Verify Damper and Valve Operations: Ensure that dampers and valves are functioning correctly by conducting regular checks during preventive maintenance, helping systems operate efficiently. Verify Set Points: Document and regularly review temperature set points, especially after commissioning or retrofitting, to prevent inadvertent changes that could lead to increased energy consumption. Implement Night Setback: Utilize night setback strategies to widen temperature set points during unoccupied periods, allowing for energy savings while maintaining suitable conditions for space recovery. -
In episode 461 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito dives into the essential types of outputs used in building automation systems (BAS) and how to manage them effectively. Whether you're a technician, engineer, or project manager, understanding these common pitfalls and output issues can save your projects from costly mistakes and delays. Phil also shares actionable advice on how to improve your teamâs performance and avoid project setbacks in the future.
Key Highlights:
Discover the most common mistakes made with BAS outputs and how they can affect your entire project. Learn why incorrect wiring is a leading cause of callbacks and how to prevent it from happening. What role does sensor placement play in project success, and how can it be optimized? Explore the critical importance of proper documentation and labeling in BAS projects. Uncover the hidden pitfalls in system integration that are often overlooked, and why testing and verification are essential to success.Tune in to learn more about avoiding these common errors and ensuring your projects run smoothly!
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Episode Description:
Join Phil Zito in Episode 460 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as he continues the technician onboarding series, focusing on Building Automation System (BAS) input types. Following a general introduction to BAS, Phil delves into the specifics of input types, output types, and the various tiers of BAS architecture. This episode is essential for new technicians and those looking to deepen their understanding of how building automation systems monitor and control building environments. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights, Phil explains the differences between physical and logical inputs, the process of selecting appropriate sensors and devices, and the significance of understanding specifications.
Episode Highlights:
BAS Input Types Unveiled: Discover the differences between physical and logical inputs in BAS and the roles they play in system functionality.
Sensor Selection Process: Learn how to read specifications and identify the necessary sensors and devices for BAS applications, enhancing your skillset in equipment selection.
Introduction to Physical Inputs: Phil breaks down the most common physical inputsâresistive, voltage, current, contact, and pulse inputsâproviding examples and their applications within BAS.
Logical Inputs Explained: Gain insight into logical inputs, including writable and non-writable types, and understand how they impact system programming and operations.
Practical Application and Specifications: Through real-world examples and a walkthrough of reading a specification, Phil demonstrates how to translate theoretical knowledge into practical application.
Future Learning Path: Phil outlines the upcoming topics in the series, including output types, controller types, communication buses, and more, setting the stage for comprehensive BAS learning.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone starting their journey in building automation or seeking to refine their technical skills. Through detailed explanations and practical examples, Phil Zito provides listeners with the tools needed to understand and work with BAS input types, paving the way for future episodes that will explore the depths of building automation systems. Tune in to enhance your understanding of BAS and prepare for the continued learning journey in subsequent episodes.
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Episode Description:
Dive into the intricacies of Building Automation System (BAS) operational structures with Phil Zito in Episode 459 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode is a crucial part of our ongoing business series focused on the management side of BAS, designed for P&L holders, business owners, and anyone involved in the operational aspect of building automation. Phil breaks down common team structures within the BAS industry, including construction, service, and facility operations, and discusses the key roles, processes, and growth strategies for each. Whether you're scaling a new BAS business or refining the operational efficiencies of an existing one, this episode provides valuable insights into organizing your team for optimal performance.
Episode Highlights:
BAS Team Structures Explained: Learn about the three primary structures in BAS operations - construction, service, and facility operations - and the specific roles and responsibilities within each.
Growth and Structure Strategy: Discover how to identify the right structure for your business based on current size and projected growth, focusing on the evolution from technical leads to specialized roles.
Role Deep Dive: Phil provides an in-depth look at the significance of technical leads, designers, programmers, project leads, and admins within the construction structure, offering insights on when and how to expand your team effectively.
Service Structure Unpacked: Understand the nuances of service operations in BAS, including the roles of service techs, retrofit techs, service leads, and the crucial function of service admin for dispatch and coordination.
Facility Operations Framework: Explore the operational side for facility owners, detailing the transition from operators to engineers and the importance of a construction lead in new building projects.
Processes for Success: Gain clarity on essential processes based on your chosen operational structure and learn strategies to offload tasks efficiently to scale your business or department.
Join Phil as he navigates the complexities of building a cohesive and effective BAS team. Whether you're at the helm of a burgeoning controls department or steering facility operations, this episode arms you with the knowledge to structure your team for success and scale your operations with confidence.
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Episode Description:
In this foundational episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito launches a vital series dedicated to teaching building automation from the ground up, perfect for new entrants to the field. Episode 458 serves as the gateway, introducing the very basics of Building Automation Systems (BAS), the architecture of such systems, and the crucial components that make up a BAS. Through detailed explanations and visual aids, this episode aims to demystify the core aspects of building automation, including inputs and outputs, controllers, and the significance of visualization in managing complex building systems. Whether you're a new employee seeking to grasp the BAS industry or an employer looking to onboard fresh talent effectively, this series promises to be an indispensable resource.
Episode Highlights:
BAS Overview: A high-level introduction to Building Automation Systems, explaining their purpose and how they've evolved from electromechanical and analog systems to digital controls. Key Components: Insight into the basic components of a BAS, including inputs, outputs, controllers, and supervisory devices, and how they interact to automate building functions. Architecture Explained: Simplifying the three-tier architecture of BAS, detailing how data moves from field devices to the operator's interface for actionable insights. Visualization and Control: Discussing the role of supervisory devices and software in visualizing and managing building systems, highlighting the shift to web-based interfaces for remote management. Educational Approach: Phil Zito outlines the series' structure, focusing on foundational knowledge before progressing to more complex concepts and applications in building automation.Join us every Wednesday at 10 am Arizona time for live sessions, where you can engage, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of building automation systems. This series is designed to build a strong foundation for those new to the BAS field, offering a step-by-step guide to mastering the basics and beyond.
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Episode Description:
Join Phil Zito in Episode 457 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast as he delves into the critical role of mentoring in developing Building Automation System (BAS) employees. This episode is a part of our ongoing series on BAS management, focusing on cultivating soft skills, understanding finance, and enhancing sales through mentoring. Phil, leveraging his extensive experience in mentoring and running a successful training business, offers a fresh perspective on accelerating the growth of technical and sales professionals in the BAS industry.
Key Topics Covered:
Talent Crisis in Building Automation: An overview of the current demand for skilled workers in construction and manufacturing, emphasizing the need for 1.2 million new workers by 2029. Traditional Development Models: A critique of conventional onboarding and mentoring programs, highlighting their inadequacies in addressing the rapid need for skilled BAS professionals. Quantitative Mentoring Approach: Introduction to a data-driven mentoring strategy that emphasizes measurable progress and competency-based assessments to fast-track employee development. Bloom's Taxonomy in Mentoring: Application of Bloom's Taxonomy to structure the mentoring process, ensuring a clear progression from basic knowledge acquisition to the application and beyond. Implementing the Model: Practical steps for incorporating a quantitative mentoring model within your organization, including setting SMART goals, assessing competencies, and adapting mentoring techniques to individual needs. Overcoming Challenges: Discussion on common obstacles in mentoring BAS employees and strategies to overcome them, ensuring a successful developmental journey for both mentors and mentees.Episode Highlights:
Phil shares insights into the critical talent shortage facing the BAS industry and the importance of innovative mentoring approaches to bridge the gap. Explore a structured, measurable methodology to mentorship that moves beyond traditional models, fostering rapid skill acquisition and professional growth. Learn how to apply Bloom's Taxonomy to effectively mentor BAS employees, ensuring they achieve competency in their roles efficiently. Gain practical tips on implementing a quantitative mentoring model in your organization, enhancing the development of technical and sales staff. -
Join Phil Zito in Episode 456 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast for an enlightening deep dive into T1L, an emerging Ethernet standard poised to revolutionize building automation systems. As we explore the technicalities and applications of T1L, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for professionals eager to understand and implement this technology in their projects. From explaining the basics of T1L to discussing practical implementation steps, Phil provides valuable insights into leveraging T1L for both retrofit and new installation projects, ensuring your building automation systems are more efficient, cost-effective, and future-proof.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to T1L: Unravel the basics of T1L, an Ethernet physical layer specification under IEEE 802.3cg, offering a promising solution for extending the reach of building automation networks using single twisted-pair cables.
Key Features and Benefits: Discover T1L's capability to support 10 Mbps full-duplex communication over 1 kilometer, facilitating cost-effective network expansions and leveraging existing wiring infrastructure.
Operational Modes and Applications: Learn about T1L's operational modes, VPP voltage levels, and how they cater to different network requirements, alongside exploring T1L's suitability for various building automation protocols like BACnet IP, LonWorks, and Modbus RTU.
Technical Deep Dive: Dive into the technical aspects of T1L, including the importance of impedance matching, the role of PHY transceivers, receivers, and gateways in a T1L setup, and how these components work together to ensure efficient data transmission.
Implementing T1L in Projects: Gain practical insights into assessing existing infrastructure for T1L compatibility, planning network architecture, upgrading devices, and configuring network settings to successfully implement T1L in your projects.
Interactive Learning: Phil encourages listeners to engage with questions and share their thoughts on T1L's impact on the building automation industry, fostering an interactive learning environment.
Whether you're looking to enhance your knowledge on cutting-edge Ethernet standards or seeking practical advice on implementing T1L in your building automation projects, Episode 456 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast is an invaluable resource. Dive into the world of T1L with Phil Zito and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of building automation.
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Explore the journey of BAS management and ownership with Phil Zito in Episode 455 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This episode kicks off a series focused on crucial skills for building automation leaders, spanning topics from financial acumen to operational prowess. Whether you're a manager, owner, or interested in comprehensive management practices, this series sheds light on navigating the building automation industry's complexities.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to BAS Management Series: Phil introduces the series, aimed at dissecting the skills vital for successful management and ownership within the building automation sphere.
Key Management Areas: Discussing critical domains such as finance, operations, sales, legal issues, marketing, business management, leadership skills, and talent management, and their significance for business prosperity.
Finance for Business Growth: Insight into financial planning, reporting, understanding tax structures, financing options, and ensuring sustainable business development.
Operations and Organizational Structure: Emphasizing the importance of robust operational processes, documents, and systems in effectively scaling business operations.
Sales Strategy and Management: Advice on crafting a powerful sales strategy, managing sales efforts, and leveraging CRM tools to bolster business revenue.
Legal and Marketing Essentials: Navigating legal challenges and the role of clear, effective marketing in boosting business visibility and reach.
People and Leadership: Discussing HR policies, employee retention, and the leadership qualities essential for fostering a positive and productive workplace.
Embark on this insightful journey with Phil Zito into managing and owning a building automation system business. This foundational episode sets the stage for the series, offering invaluable insights for professionals aspiring to thrive in the BAS industry.
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