Glossary

Building Automation

What is building automation? Learn the term's meaning and how it can help improve your organization's efficiency.

Tracer Concierge in Restaurant Environment

Quick Facts

Products: Tracer® Building Automation System • Controls and Automation • Building Automation Systems • Building Automation • Tracer® Synchrony® • Tracer® Concierge®

What Is Building Automation?

Building automation is the use of integrated controls, sensors, software, and communications to automatically monitor, control, and optimize building systems, including HVAC, refrigeration, lighting, and access. Building controls solutions, like Trane's Tracer® Concierge Building Automation, are used to meet occupant needs, maintain safety and comfort, and minimize energy use and operating costs.

More advanced controls solutions include building automation systems and building management systems.

Building Automation Helps Increase Efficiency

Whether you're using only HVAC building automation or a full suite of building controls, building automation can help your organization save energy, money, and time because it

Decreases energy consumption: optimized HVAC schedules, setback/set-up, economizer use, demand-controlled ventilation and efficient control of VFDs and pumps typically reduce energy use.
Lowers peak demand charges: load scheduling, load-shedding and demand-limiting strategies reduce peak electrical demand and associated utility charges.
Reduces maintenance costs and downtime: FDD and predictive maintenance detect faults early (stuck valves, fouled coils, refrigerant leaks, failing motors), reducing emergency repairs and extending equipment life.
Streamlines operations: centralized alarms, remote access and automation reduce on-site labor and service calls. Faster commissioning and automated commissioning lower startup costs.
Enables performance-based procurement and contracting: data allows outcome-based service agreements.
Minimizes utility and compliance costs: automated tracking of energy and emissions helps avoid fines and optimizes utility incentives and rebates.

Implementing building automation can help your organization achieve sustainability goals by improving energy efficiency and potentially cutting scope 1 and 2 emissions, depending on your energy source.

Resources for Building Automation

To learn more about retrofitting an existing building or campus or to incorporate building automation into new construction, contact your local Trane representative.