SBA 470: How to Get Hired in Building Automation

18:35

Join us for Episode 479 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, where we dive into a topic that's rapidly transforming the world of building automation—AI and Machine Learning in HVAC Energy Optimization. Whether you're an HVAC technician, BAS professional, engineer, sales specialist, or building manager, this episode is for you. Discover how AI-driven solutions are redefining the way we approach energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, and system performance—all without the need for complicated programming. By tuning in, you'll gain insights into how these cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of our industry and how you can stay ahead of the curve. Expect real-world examples, expert analysis, and a glimpse into what 2025 holds for AI integration in building automation systems. In This Episode, We Cover: How AI analyzes building data to forecast and optimize energy usage. Machine learning’s role in predictive maintenance, helping you avoid costly failures. Real-time dynamic adjustments that improve occupant comfort while reducing energy costs. Anomaly detection techniques to identify inefficiencies before they become expensive problems. Real-world case studies showing how companies are saving thousands with AI-driven strategies.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 478: Controlling Pumping and Piping Systems 25:14

for 12 weeks siden25:14

25:14

Building automation professionals, it’s time to master the final piece of the HVAC puzzle! In Episode 478 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast , we conclude our deep dive into HVAC systems with a detailed exploration of pumping and piping systems. Whether you're optimizing system performance, troubleshooting tricky setups, or designing advanced control sequences, this episode offers valuable insights to elevate your skills. Key Topics Covered: The critical roles of flow, pressure, pumps, and valves in HVAC systems. Understanding decoupled loops and their impact on system performance. How to manage mixing valves to maintain temperature and flow efficiency. The hidden pitfalls of low delta T syndrome and how to avoid them. Practical strategies for sequencing pumps in primary and secondary loops. Why It Matters: Your ability to navigate the complexities of pumping and piping directly impacts system efficiency, troubleshooting accuracy, and client satisfaction. This episode provides the foundational concepts and advanced tips you need to take control of any hydronic system.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 477: HVAC Secrets - Optimizing Water-Cooled Systems for Peak Performance 28:16

for 13 weeks siden28:16

28:16

Attention building automation professionals! Are you ready to deepen your expertise in hydronic systems? Episode 477 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast is here to guide you through the intricate world of water-cooled chilled water plants, cooling towers, and control strategies that drive system efficiency. If you’ve ever grappled with terms like "range," "approach," or "wet bulb," this episode is your ticket to clarity. It’s designed to provide actionable insights without overwhelming you with technical jargon, making it a must-listen for anyone in the field. Key Topics Covered: Unpacking the components and control strategies of water-cooled chillers. The relationship between wet bulb, range, and approach—and why it matters. Essential considerations for effective cooling tower control. Understanding bypass valves, dual bypass setups, and low-temperature control. The role of partial load chillers in optimizing system efficiency. Why It Matters: Whether you're troubleshooting a chilled water system, optimizing performance, or designing your next sequence, this episode equips you with the concepts to elevate your projects. Dive in, connect the dots, and take the next step in mastering HVAC control sequences.S…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 476: Mastering Chilled Water Systems Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled Insights 30:14

for 14 weeks siden30:14

30:14

Calling all building automation professionals! Are you ready to unlock deeper insights into chilled water systems and elevate your expertise? In this episode, we dive into air-cooled and water-cooled chillers, revealing practical concepts that will refine your control strategies and enhance system performance. Whether you're troubleshooting HVAC systems or designing sequences, this episode delivers knowledge you can immediately apply. Key Topics Covered The core principles behind the refrigeration cycle and why they matter in control sequences. A closer look at the differences between air-cooled and water-cooled chillers. The critical role of lift and load in achieving chiller efficiency. How system enable states and sequence flow simplify troubleshooting and programming. A sneak peek at advanced concepts like multi-chiller control and bypass valve strategies.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 475: Demystifying Hot Water Systems for Building Automation 32:07

for 15 weeks siden32:07

32:07

In Episode 475 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast , we take a comprehensive look at the vital role of hot water systems in building automation. Whether you're troubleshooting a stubborn boiler, programming complex multi-system setups, or trying to master sequencing, this episode dives into the core concepts and strategies you need to succeed. This isn't just another technical breakdown — it's a deep dive into real-world scenarios, practical tips, and common pitfalls, designed to enhance your understanding and control of these critical systems. Key Topics Covered: The science behind hot water systems: What makes them efficient for energy transfer? Single vs. multi-boiler systems: How to approach sequencing and lead-lag control. Hot water setpoint strategies: Outdoor air resets, mixing valves, and system balance. Steam systems: Why they’re powerful, how to manage them safely, and their role in energy distribution. Avoiding common mistakes with flow, fuel, and control in hot water and steam systems. If you're looking to refine your expertise in HVAC control sequences and elevate your building automation game, this episode is packed with insights and strategies tailored to your needs.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 474: Mastering 100% Outdoor Air Units: HVAC Control Secrets Revealed 23:09

for 16 weeks siden23:09

23:09

In Episode 474 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast , we delve deep into the intricacies of 100% outdoor air units (OAUs). For building automation professionals, mastering these systems is critical, especially in high-stakes environments like operating rooms, clean rooms, and data centers. Whether you’re a seasoned technician or just starting your journey in HVAC controls, this episode unpacks the nuances that can make or break the performance of OAUs. Join us as we explore how to prevent common pitfalls and enhance system performance. You'll walk away with practical insights and a fresh perspective on state-based control strategies that could revolutionize your approach to HVAC systems. Key Topics Covered: The vital role of state-based control in HVAC troubleshooting and programming. Common issues with 100% outdoor air units in extreme weather conditions. The interplay between preheat, cooling, and reheat sequences. Ensuring safety and efficiency with damper status and static pressure controls. Humidity control strategies for maintaining precise environmental conditions. Dive into this episode to gain actionable knowledge on optimizing OAU performance and to hear insights that could transform how you approach control sequences.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 473: HVAC Control Sequences Part 3 27:47

for 17 weeks siden27:47

27:47

Podcast Summary for SBA 473: HVAC Control Sequences Part 3 Unlock the secrets to mastering HVAC control sequences in this engaging episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. Episode 473 dives into the intricate world of air handling units, revealing insights every building automation professional needs to optimize performance and troubleshoot with precision. Join the conversation as we explore critical ideas that directly impact your projects and systems. Whether you're designing, programming, or maintaining airside systems, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom to elevate your skills. Key Topics Covered: Understanding the role of airflow as the foundation of temperature and humidity control. Exploring the mechanics behind constant air volume (CAV) and variable air volume (VAV) systems. Demystifying economizer control for energy-efficient ventilation and free cooling. Key safety measures for air handling units and their impact on system performance. Advanced sequences for occupancy, ventilation, and environmental quality control. Don’t miss this chance to deepen your expertise and gain practical strategies for real-world application. Tune in live on Thursday, December 12th, at 8 AM EST / 5 AM PST, or catch the episode anytime on your favorite podcast platform.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 472: HVAC Control Sequences Part 2 27:58

for 18 weeks siden27:58

27:58

SBA 472: HVAC Control Sequences Part 2 Struggling with airside systems? Whether it's fan coil units, rooftop units, or handling building pressurization, this episode dives into the essential airside control sequences every BAS professional must master. Understand the foundations of air movement and control to elevate your expertise and efficiency in the field. 🔍 This episode focuses on practical concepts for navigating real-world challenges in airside systems, ensuring you're equipped to tackle them with confidence. Key Topics Covered: Fan Coil Units: What makes them unique and where they shine in specific applications. Rooftop Units: Explore their role in airside control and how economizers enhance energy efficiency. Pressurization Basics: Why building pressurization is critical and how to maintain it effectively. Airflow Management: Insights into supply, exhaust, and volumetric offsets for optimal performance. Key Safety Features: How condensate alarms, dampers, and other safeguards protect your systems.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 471: HVAC Control Sequences Part 1 26:04

for 19 weeks siden26:04

26:04

Are HVAC control sequences leaving you puzzled? Whether you’re a technician, programmer, or designer in the building automation industry, this episode is your starting point for mastering the critical systems that shape modern smart buildings. Join us for Part 1 of our eight-part deep dive into HVAC control sequences, focusing on one of the most common systems you'll encounter: VAV boxes. This is the knowledge you need to solve issues faster, design smarter, and build your confidence with one of the most misunderstood aspects of BAS. Key Topics Covered: VAV Boxes Demystified: Discover the core principles behind variable air volume (VAV) boxes and their essential role in zone temperature control. Troubleshooting Made Clear: Learn why most BAS issues occur at the box level and how mastering this can maximize efficiency across systems. Control Loops Simplified: Unpack the unique “loop within a loop” concept for VAV box control, essential for effective programming and operation. Transition to Reheat: Explore the differences between cooling-only boxes and those with reheat, including key considerations for setpoints and sensor placement. Fan-Powered Box Insights: Understand the contrasting roles of series and parallel fan-powered boxes and when to use each for optimal performance. This episode is packed with practical insights and concepts that will change the way you approach HVAC systems. If you're looking to deepen your expertise and stay ahead in the field, this series is for you. 🔔 Catch it live: Thursday, November 28th at 8 AM EST / 5 AM PST. Don’t miss the start of this must-listen series for building automation professionals.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 470: How to Get Hired in Building Automation 36:19

for 21 weeks siden36:19

36:19

Are you trying to break into the building automation field or help someone who is? Episode 470 of SBA offers a roadmap for landing your first job in this dynamic industry. This episode is all about actionable advice for anyone seeking to understand how building automation careers work, what skills you actually need, and how to connect with hiring managers – even if you’re just starting out. Discover the fundamentals of a career in building automation and understand the steps needed to make yourself stand out. Whether you’re an entry-level candidate or transitioning from a different role, this episode reveals the secrets to positioning yourself as the candidate companies want. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why building automation is a promising career path with rapid growth opportunities How to navigate and understand job descriptions in this field Ways to gain hands-on experience before you even apply Unconventional yet effective strategies for getting noticed by hiring managers The essential skills you need to focus on to increase your value and hit the ground running Listen in for the insights and inspiration to get hired and start your journey in building automation.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 469: How To Grow Your Service Business 33:36

for 22 weeks siden33:36

33:36

Ready to elevate your service business and tap into new revenue streams? In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy podcast, we dive into key strategies to expand your building automation service business, specifically focusing on owner-direct work. If you're in the BAS industry, this episode is packed with insights on how to stand out, grow your client base, and create a reliable income stream with service offerings. Phil brings his experience from the field and trade show conversations to highlight why and how service businesses can be a game-changer for automation professionals. Tune in on Thursday, November 7th at 8 AM EST (6 AM MST) and discover practical approaches that could transform your business. Key Topics: Understanding the advantages of owner-direct work A step-by-step process for launching or scaling a service business The power of customer retention in a rapidly changing market Tips to build a playbook that keeps your team efficient and aligned Strategies to double your service business in just six months Find out how you can streamline and grow your BAS service business!…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 468: Guideline 36 Part 1 26:22

for 23 weeks siden26:22

26:22

Episode Description: Episode 468 explores advanced airside HVAC sequences, offering building automation professionals an in-depth look at ASHRAE's Guideline 36. This episode unpacks strategies for optimizing energy efficiency through standardized control sequences, helping listeners understand how to achieve predictable and repeatable system performance. You'll gain insights into best practices and considerations for implementing these strategies across different building scenarios, with a focus on practical, real-world applications. Key takeaways you’ll get: The Principles of Trim and Response: Understand how this control strategy minimizes energy use while maintaining optimal HVAC performance. Handling Zone Requests and Zone Groups: Learn about managing cooling and heating demands across multiple zones for better system efficiency. Implementing Economizer Control: Discover how to leverage outdoor air conditions for free cooling to reduce energy consumption. Effective Reheat Control Techniques: Explore how reheat strategies can improve comfort, especially in colder climates. Key Factors for New Builds and Retrofits: Get guidance on sensor calibration, system integration, and adapting strategies for project success. Tune in to SBA 468 to enhance your understanding of Guideline 36 and elevate the performance of your building automation systems.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 467: BACnet BTL Deepdive 24:24

for 24 weeks siden24:24

24:24

In episode 467 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you’ll dive deep into BACnet Testing Laboratories (BTL) and how understanding BTL listings can significantly impact your work in building automation. Whether you’re a contractor taking over a building or a facility manager looking to specify BACnet systems, this episode offers essential insights into device capabilities, interoperability, and conformance. By the end of the episode, you’ll be equipped to make smarter decisions regarding BACnet device selection and deployment. Key Topics: Understanding BTL Listings: Learn how to interpret protocol implementation conformance sheets and what they reveal about device capabilities. Device Profiles and Interoperability: Explore the different BACnet profiles (such as AAC, B-BC) and how they apply to your systems. Functional Groups and Building Blocks: A breakdown of BACnet interoperability blocks, like data sharing, alarming, and trending. Network Capabilities: Discover how network compatibility impacts system integration and device communication. The Role of BACnet Testing Laboratories: Why BTL certification matters and how it ensures system functionality and compliance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of BACnet standards and BTL listings. Listen now to stay ahead in your building automation projects.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 466: How to Find, Develop, and Retain Your Building Operators 29:42

for 25 weeks siden29:42

29:42

Episode 466: How to Find, Develop, and Retain Your Building Operators addresses one of the most pressing challenges in the building automation industry today: the growing shortage of skilled building operators. In this episode, you’ll gain insights into how to effectively attract, train, and retain talent in an increasingly competitive market. While contractors are pulling operators away, there are key strategies facilities can use to combat this trend and keep their teams strong. In this episode, you'll explore: Why finding skilled operators is getting harder and how to tap into overlooked talent pools. Proven methods for developing operators through hands-on training and systematic onboarding processes. The unique benefits facilities can leverage to retain operators, beyond just salary. How creating a culture of continuous learning and growth can boost employee loyalty. The long-term value of development plans and creative employee recognition programs. If you’re looking to keep your facility running smoothly by building a loyal and skilled team, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn more about the steps you can take to future-proof your operations.…

The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

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SBA 465: Robots in the Skilled Trades 33:36

for 26 weeks siden33:36