Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx) Tools and Resources

Engaging building operators in the EBCx process (PDF 1714 kb)

This fact sheet includes best practices and emphasizes the vital role building operators play in the EBCx process.

Optimizing the operation of condensing boilers in existing buildings, a well-honed skill (PDF 447 kb)

This fact sheet outlines three strategies for the efficient operation of condensing boilers. A condensing boiler captures and reuses heat normally lost during the combustion process in conventional boilers, which can result in a reduction of natural gas consumption and GHG emissions.

Cooling system optimization (PDF 651 kb)

This fact sheet examines different optimization strategies for cooling systems that can help building owners and operators achieve operational and energy efficiencies.

Reducing energy waste with heat recovery (PDF 788 kb)

This fact sheet explores passive heat recovery systems and provides high-level descriptions to improve operational and energy efficiencies.

Heat pump technologies (PDF 658 kb)

This fact sheet provides an overview of various heat pump technologies, including air-source, water-source, and variable refrigerant flow systems, and provides key performance metrics to facilitate decision making. It also discusses the challenges to be aware of when using this technology, along with opportunities for reducing energy use.

Dual-fuel hydronic heating systems for reducing GHG emissions (PDF 504 kb)

This fact sheet focuses on electric load management in commercial and institutional buildings equipped with a dual-fuel hydronic heating system. It explains the principle of operation of such systems, along with opportunities for reducing GHG emissions, and provides operational guidelines for users.

Reducing electric heating costs with thermal storage (PDF 555 kb)

This fact sheet describes an effective operational strategy for electric thermal storage (ETS) devices to reduce peak electric power demand in buildings with electricity-driven heating systems.

Reducing electric heating costs with radiant floors (PDF 1868 kb)

This fact sheet explains how radiant floors can function as energy storage devices to reduce electric peak loads and provides operation guidelines.

Courses

The following courses will help you learn more about EBCx. The EBCx course materials were created by NRCan and are licensed and distributed by CIET.

Existing Building Commissioning Essentials

This one-day course provides a practical approach to EBCx with a specific emphasis on the elements of a robust investigation. This course is ideal for building owners, building managers and supervisors, technical supervisors, consultants, and energy managers.

Advanced Course on Existing Building Commissioning

This four-day course covers all the stages of the EBCx process, including planning, investigation, implementation, and hand-over monitoring. This course is intended for a technical audience with prior knowledge of recommissioning concepts. The first day of this training covers most of the material from the Existing Building Commissioning Essentials course.