What is HVAC Scheduling
Definition
HVAC scheduling is the process of systematically matching the use of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment with tenant occupancy schedules.
Why it Matters
Proper scheduling is one of the best opportunities to save energy in existing buildings. Many building use some method to automatically shut off HVAC systems on time of day. Older and lower Class buildings may use a time clock to perform this function.
In buildings that have a building automation system (BAS), time-of-day-scheduling is a standard function.
The most common use of time-of-day scheduling is to start the HVAC system before the building will be occupied, and to shut if off when unoccupied. When the building is occupied, the BAS controls the HVAC system to maintain the indoor temperature within a desired range for occupant comfort.
Unfortunately, even with a BAS, HVAC scheduling is often sub-optimal. This is due to “performance drift” that occurs over time as the building is operated and tenants make requests that are often never changed back.
For this reason, having a HVAC monitoring system to continuously commission schedules and compare it to occupancy patterns on an ongoing basis is essential to maintain the savings achieved from efficient scheduling.