As buildings change in space use, occupancy, operations, and equipment changes, new equipment, and components are installed. Integrations of these controls with a legacy building management system can become difficult if not impossible. As the technology of the controlled equipment and ancillary components improve, certain control systems become incompatible. Protocols have changed and legacy BAS can restrict the operation and full functionality of new devices and ultimately lead to decreased efficiency, more system errors, and increased energy use. These factors can also create less than desired performance for installed equipment leading to premature failure.

A surefire indication that a BMS is heading in a path toward downtime is an uptick in system errors. False or actual system alarms may become present, and overrides more frequent and this could be a good indication of a legacy system that is lagging behind. When operators are having to spend more time troubleshooting and evaluating these system errors and correcting issues with the building automation controls it may be time to consider a system evaluation with a qualified controls contractor.

Like any computer as it ages and its storage space fills, a BAS system can begin to loose valuable memory space. This can lead to increases in errors and the inability to install critical updates with added features and capabilities. Keeping sufficient memory space for a building automation control system is critical for continue optimal and safe use.

Cyber-attacks on organizations are becoming increasingly more common. Since the early 90s, more users have been logging on and organizations adapted to new ways of running their business. Likewise, hackers have become increasingly more present in their plots towards businesses. Older out dated building management systems can leave organization vulnerable to a cyber invasion. Lost or stolen data can translate into thousands if not millions in down-time and recovery efforts. Ensure your systems up-to-date and protected against cyber-attacks.

Simply put, Buidling Automation Systems are designed and implemented to create convenient and user friendly operation of a building infrastructure. When operators and building owners begin experiencing frequent headaches from their legacy building management systems, it’s a solid indicator that an upgrade is due. A building automation system should provide facility managers with worry-free operations and minimal upkeep aside from regular planned building automation maintenance and updates. When its not, then its time to consider a BMS upgrade.