Building Automation and Control Systems (BACS) are classified into levels A, B and C to define their control and automation capability, and thus the efficiency and complexity of facility management within a building. BACS are particularly important for their role in home automation and for achieving the goals of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. Here are the differences between the three levels:
BACS class A: Advanced automation
– Functionality: Offers the highest level of automation and control. It is a complex and comprehensive system capable of monitoring and controlling various parameters and systems within a building (e.g. lighting, HVAC, security and energy management).
– Integration: Can integrate multiple systems and subsystems, often with a central interface and advanced management software.
– Energy Efficiency: Enables highly optimised energy management, minimising consumption through features such as presence detection, automatic temperature control, and other optimisations.
– Application: It is used in complex buildings such as large offices, hospitals or airports, where complete and centralised control of all systems is required.
BACS class B: Intermediate automation
– Functionality: Has good, but less advanced automation and control capabilities than level A. It usually controls the main systems of a building (such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning) but with less integration of secondary systems.
– Integration: Allows good integration between the various systems, but not always able to fully centralise all control.
– Energy Efficiency: Allows good energy savings, but without the advanced optimisation of A-level.
– Application: It is suitable for medium-sized commercial buildings or schools, where full control is not necessary, but efficient management of the main systems is still desired.
BACS class C: Basic automation
BACS Class C: Basic automation
– Functionality: Has limited control and automation capabilities. Usually manages only basic functions such as switching on and off the main systems, with no possibility of advanced optimisation.
– Integration: Minimal, with systems often operating autonomously without co-ordination. This level does not allow centralisation of controls.
– Energy Efficiency: Energy savings are limited, as advanced optimisation functions are lacking.
– Application: Used in simple or small buildings, where complete control and energy optimisation are not a priority.
Summary
– Class A: Complete and advanced automation, maximum energy efficiency, for complex buildings.
– Class B: Intermediate automation, good energy efficiency, for medium-sized commercial buildings.
– Class C: Basic automation, low energy efficiency, for simple or small buildings.
This classification helps to choose the BACS system according to the management needs and level of complexity of the building.
