As facility managers, our responsibility extends beyond the immediate comfort and safety of building occupants; it involves a strategic commitment to preserving the building’s infrastructure and systems. In this article, we explore the critical aspects of building maintenance, emphasising its importance in the era of smart buildings, and how innovative technologies like IoT are reshaping our maintenance strategies.

What is Building Maintenance?

Building maintenance encompasses a broad spectrum of activities aimed at ensuring that all components of a building function as intended. This includes the upkeep of structural elements, mechanical systems, electrical networks, plumbing, and safety systems. Effective building maintenance involves routine inspections, preventive care, timely repairs, and necessary upgrades. 

It’s not merely about fixing what’s broken but maintaining the overall integrity and efficiency of the building. This proactive approach helps prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems, ensuring the long-term sustainability and value of the property.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance in a Smart Building

Smart buildings are defined by their use of advanced technologies to optimise energy use, enhance comfort, and ensure safety. However, these complex systems require consistent oversight to function effectively. Regular maintenance is vital in smart buildings for several reasons:

1. Operational Efficiency: Advanced systems such as automated HVAC, lighting controls, and security systems rely on regular calibration and maintenance to operate efficiently. Without proper upkeep, these systems can become inefficient, leading to increased energy consumption and higher operational costs.
2. Longevity of Systems: Just like any technology, building systems are subject to wear and tear. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of these systems, reducing the frequency and cost of replacements and upgrades.
3. Safety and Compliance: Ensuring that systems such as fire alarms, emergency lighting, and lifts are regularly tested and maintained is crucial for occupant safety and compliance with local regulations.
4. Optimised Performance: Smart systems are designed to adjust to environmental changes and user needs. Regular maintenance ensures these systems can adapt appropriately, maintaining optimal performance and user comfort.

Types of Building Maintenance

There are multiple types of building maintenance that facility management teams can deploy in the building, each serving a specific purpose in the upkeep of the property:

1. Preventive Maintenance: This proactive approach involves scheduled activities designed to prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of building systems. Examples include regular filter changes in HVAC systems, lubrication of mechanical parts, and inspections of electrical systems.
2. Corrective Maintenance: This reactive maintenance occurs in response to identified issues. It involves diagnosing and fixing problems such as leaks, electrical faults, or structural damage to restore systems to their optimal condition.
3. Predictive Maintenance: Leveraging IoT and other advanced technologies, predictive maintenance uses data analytics to anticipate potential system failures. By analysing patterns and anomalies, this approach helps predict when and where maintenance is needed, preventing unexpected breakdowns. The market for predictive maintenance was valued at $4.2 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $15.9 billion by 2026, highlighting the increasing reliance on predictive technologies to ensure facility performance and safety. 
4. Routine Maintenance: These are everyday tasks that keep the building in good working order. They include cleaning, minor repairs, and regular inspections to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly.

Companies focusing on predictive maintenance have seen tangible benefits; for instance, Enertiv reported a 50% reduction in major equipment failures and extended equipment life by at least 20%. 

Examples of Building Maintenance

Effective building maintenance covers a wide range of activities, from routine tasks to more complex interventions:

• HVAC System Maintenance: This involves regular inspections, cleaning of air filters, and checking for leaks in ductwork. Maintaining HVAC systems ensures efficient energy use and optimal indoor air quality.
• Electrical System Checks: Regular testing of electrical circuits, lighting systems, and emergency power supplies is essential for preventing power outages and ensuring safety.
• Plumbing Maintenance: Regular inspections can identify and address issues such as leaks, water pressure problems, and blockages, which can prevent water damage and ensure efficient water use.
• Structural Inspections: Regular assessments of the building’s structural elements, including walls, roofs, and foundations, help detect signs of wear and tear, water intrusion, or other damages that could compromise the building’s integrity.

What Makes Regular Maintenance in Building Management a Necessity for Companies?

For companies, regular building maintenance is not just an operational necessity but a strategic advantage for the bottom line. It provides several key benefits:

• Cost Savings: Proactive maintenance can significantly reduce the costs associated with emergency repairs and system replacements. Companies can avoid the more substantial expenses that arise from neglected maintenance.
• Enhanced Occupant Satisfaction: A well-maintained building ensures a safe, comfortable environment for employees, clients, and visitors. This can lead to increased productivity, higher employee satisfaction, and a positive image for the company.
• Regulatory Compliance: Regular maintenance ensures that all building systems comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and fines.
• Asset Preservation: Maintaining the building’s infrastructure and systems helps preserve its aesthetic appeal and market value, making it a more attractive asset for investors and tenants.

IoT as a Central Operation System for Smart Buildings Maintenance

The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionised building maintenance by providing a comprehensive and integrated approach to managing building systems. IoT devices, such as sensors and smart meters, continuously monitor various aspects of the building’s environment and systems, providing real-time data on performance and potential issues.

“Conventional FM has problems with lower data quality, longer notification time, and delays in relevant operation and maintenance […] IoT provides adaptive and real-time access to building facilities for relevant personnel.” – Smart Buildings Construction and Maintenance by Means of Internet of Things (IoT): A Review

Key Benefits of IoT in Building Maintenance:

• Data-Driven Decisions: IoT provides actionable insights through data analytics, helping facility managers make informed decisions about maintenance schedules and resource allocation.
• Predictive Maintenance: By analysing data trends, IoT systems can predict when maintenance is needed, allowing for timely interventions that prevent system failures and reduce downtime. A University of Tennessee study found that companies focusing on predictive technologies and monitoring saw a 27% improvement in safety performance. Predictive maintenance also reduces the number of workers exposed to hazardous conditions during emergency repairs.
• Remote Monitoring and Control: IoT enables remote monitoring and management of building systems, allowing facility managers to address issues promptly, even if they are off-site.
• Energy Efficiency: IoT systems optimise energy use by adjusting lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy and other factors, resulting in significant energy savings and a reduced carbon footprint.

The Role of Support and Training in Building Maintenance

Facility managers understand that regular maintenance, robust support, and comprehensive training are crucial for maintaining buildings in prime condition. Tyrrell Systems can help facility management teams step up their maintenance game through:

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is vital for identifying and addressing issues early, preventing costly repairs and extending the lifespan of building assets. It ensures that systems run smoothly, creating a safe and comfortable environment for occupants, which enhances productivity and satisfaction.

Support System

Customised support plans tailored to the specific needs of a facility are essential. Access to skilled technicians who understand the specific systems in use ensures quick issue resolution, minimising downtime and maintaining operational efficiency.

Training

Investing in training for facility management staff is key to effective building management. Well-trained personnel are better equipped to handle complex building systems and stay updated with the latest technologies.