INDUSTRY INSIGHT


Improving building performance: the increasingly crucial role data is playing


Demand for smarter buildings is ever-increasing, thanks to the growing environmental focus of building owners,


property developers and end users, and the tightening of sustainability and energy efficiency regulations with the


government’s 2050 Net Zero target in mind. As a result, the importance of building energy management systems (BEMS) gains significance, as does the need for building controls engineers and end users to truly utilise the data these


technological advancements provide. Stacey Lucas, President of the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) explains


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found that this is a particularly important consideration for customers who need to access tight city centre plantrooms.”


Benefits of stainless steel


When it comes to water heaters, corrosion is the enemy. Unlike enamelled or glass-lined steel products, which require additional measures to minimise the risk of corrosion, water heaters equipped with stainless steel technology—such as the Dorchester DR-SG—feature high-grade stainless steel combined with electrical anode protection. This advanced design provides a robust defence against corrosion, significantly enhancing the durability of the system and contributing to an extended lifespan. From a practical perspective, stainless steel


products also have the added advantage of being lighter in weight, which makes them easier to transport, handle, and install, often without the need for expensive cranes or heavy lifting equipment, which can quickly see installation costs escalate. Additionally, for that added peace of mind, most manufacturers typically back stainless steel water heater systems with strong warranty coverage, reflecting confidence in the product’s longevity and reliability.


Water composition When choosing a water heater, it’s also


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important to consider how different water types can affect the heater’s performance, efficiency, and lifespan. Hard water, containing minerals like calcium and magnesium, can lead to scale buildup in water heaters, which acts as an insulator, reducing heat transfer and increasing energy consumption. Over time, this can cause wear on the system and eventually lead to failure. In comparison, in areas with soft water, the absence of minerals means there’s no scale buildup; however, the water is more corrosive. This can cause metals to corrode more quickly, degrading the internal components of the water heater and affecting its performance. To address these issues, stainless steel products offer a good first line of defence.


Conclusion


Selecting an efficient and durable hot water system is a crucial decision for any commercial project and requires a detailed assessment of various key factors. These include energy efficiency, system size, installation requirements, water composition, and long-term maintenance needs. By carefully considering these elements, you can ensure the system will meet the specific demands of the building, provide reliable performance, and reduce long-term operational costs.


n fact, many, both inside and outside the industry, don’t truly understand or acknowledge just how important the management and use of building performance data is for the optimisation of building operation, energy management, and energy waste reduction. Consequently, increasing understanding of building automation systems will not only ensure much-enhanced energy performance but also improve occupant wellbeing and productivity.


More informed decision-making


Through seamless integration into the building, BEMS technology, such as real-time temperature, occupancy, humidity, and light sensors, controllers, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, enable the effective monitoring, control, and optimisation of how that building performs. Having access to this information allows facility managers and building occupants to understand their environment and see real-time information on the temperature,


air quality, lighting, and humidity levels in the building. As a result, they will be able to make more informed decisions on comfort preferences – potentially leading to increased satisfaction and productivity.


Additionally, by monitoring and analysing the BEMS data, building occupants and end users will be able to identify any energy waste, such as excessive cooling or heating, and adapt the heating systems accordingly.


Regular access to important data can also help end users adjust their behaviour and become more aware of their energy consumption, enabling them to meet energy-savings goals and promote a culture of environmental awareness throughout the building.


The importance of collaboration


With data so crucial to a building’s energy performance, BEMS engineers have a vital role to play in utilising this effectively. To that end, working closely with the end user and identifying their demands and needs must be the focus. Every building is different and the occupants will have differing lighting, heating, air conditioning, and ventilation requirements. Early communication and collaboration between the BEMS engineer and the end user will enable the engineer to truly understand these requirements and then utilise the data accordingly. The incorporation of feedback and information provided by the building occupants and end users can also help engineers design systems that are easier to manage, more intuitive, and better suited to the needs of the occupants and the building. Furthermore, a cohesive approach between the BEMS engineer and the end users can also help the engineer to identify potential issues and create bespoke BEMS systems strategies to improve energy efficiency, temperature control, and building performance. The ongoing close working relationship between engineer and end user can also aid amendments and adaptations of the building’s energy performance to reflect any changes to the environment, building use, or occupant levels. Data analysis is playing an ever-more imperative role in the BEMS sector, driving informed decision-making and giving facility managers, building owners, and occupants the quick and easy ability to optimise their energy usage, improve the building’s operational efficiency, and identify trends and potential issues. Empowering those in charge of building management with the information they need to meet sustainability targets and improve internal environments for occupants, data can play a crucial role in the creation of a greener, smarter, and better built environment.


BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER AUGUST 2025 7


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