Building Automation Systems (BAS) are making buildings smarter by allowing various systems within a building to be more connected, controlled remotely, and more energy efficient. Because HVAC systems are crucial to occupant comfort yet are the main source of energy consumption, integrating them with your BAS is the best way to ensure continued efficiency and lower costs. However, integrating HVAC systems into the BAS can be challenging. Technology is progressing quickly, and on-going education is critical to design and understand integrations. It can be hard to know where to begin. CoolAutomation can help!

CoolAutomation allows for seamless integration of HVAC systems to BAS.

CoolAutomation Features:

• Plug-&-Play installation and out-of-the-box integration with automation systems
• Supports standard BAS protocols like BACnet MS/TP, BACnet IP, Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP
• Universal devices work with any HVAC brand.
• Single device for integration that supports up to 255 units including simultaneous communication with VRV/VRV, mini-splits, RTUs, chillers, and other HVAC equipment
• Real-time communication and remote access
• Touch screen display for local and simple configuration, including centralized control of HVAC systems

Whether you’re an engineer looking to integrate separate HVAC equipment into a single BAS or a mechanical technician looking for service transparency, CoolAutomation can make your job easier.

Benefits of CoolAutomation for Engineers

CoolAutomation devices are easy to install, have fewer points of failure than current options, and do not require any prior technical HVAC knowledge. The device also offers simplified commissioning tools. Once installed, you can now detect the functionality of numerous units remotely and in minutes. Because these devices utilize open protocols, you no longer have to worry about compatibility and can continue to use the equipment and brands that already exist within your facility. For example, oftentimes when you integrate your BMS with a mini split, you’re required to get off your current thermostats, but with CoolAutomation, you can keep the same wall stats you already have. CoolAutomation is a great solution for engineers who are inexperienced with these systems or are on a quick project timeline and can’t be bogged down by a lengthy integration process.

Benefits for Mechanical Service Contractors and Technicians

Before CoolAutomation, technicians had limited HVAC equipment visibility. They could only detect problems with equipment performance during routine or scheduled calls. Not only could these pre-scheduled visits be a waste of time if no issues were identified. If problems developed between visits, customers could experience inefficient equipment or breakdowns. With CoolAutomation, mechanical techs can improve their service offering, lower costs for all, and increase customer satisfaction. The main benefits are:

• Reduce on-site visits and troubleshoot remotely, saving on labor and travel costs
• Monitor all equipment, even in difficult to access locations, in real-time and get a comprehensive view of HVAC health and performance
• Detect early issues and prevent downtime
• Perform maintenance visits only, when necessary, based upon equipment status, and know exactly what work, tools, and/or parts are needed for the visit
• Identify opportunities for equipment and energy improvements, saving customers money

CoolAutomation provides simple integration and greater service transparency for engineers, mechanical service contractors, facility managers, and more. If you’re interested in saving time, money, and enhancing customer satisfaction, reach out to LONG today to learn more about CoolAutomation devices.

As of October 1st, 2024, LONG Building Technologies, Inc. has acquired Justice Systems Corporation!

Justice Systems Corporation has been operating since 1994 and is a design-build integrator of unified electronic security systems (video surveillance, access control, alarms, etc.) combined with high-security PLC-based controls. They specialized in security systems and controls for justice, public safety, and government facilities.

With this acquisition, we are combining Justice Systems’ trusted service with LONG’s proven leadership in the industry. It allows us to expand our security solutions offerings, including design-build integration and enhanced service and maintenance, and enables Justice Systems to provide more comprehensive solutions thanks to the deeper resource pool and reach of the LONG team. Our mutual expertise will allow us to engineer custom solutions for a variety of building technologies across an array of systems and facilities. We are excited to move deeper into the government and justice facilities market and extend Justice Systems’ reach into additional territories. Together, we can enhance our ability to protect your investments and deliver state-of-the-art security and building solutions, all backed by our commitment to safety and innovation.

Important information to note:

• There will be no changes to either the Justice Systems or LONG teams
• Justice Systems will continue to have the same brand offerings, along with new ones brought by LONG
• Their office in Auburn, WA will remain and operate as an additional satellite office to LONG’s locations in Renton and Silverdale.
• Justice Systems will continue to operate under its current name.

At LONG, our customers are the soul of the buildings we improve. This acquisition will allow us to bring even more value to our extended family of customers while continuing to support you as your building needs change. This is a natural evolution for both companies and we cannot wait to take this next step forward together!

School facility or operations managers all face challenges when it comes to scheduling HVAC systems. One challenge is time, as valuable personnel are often tasked with the tedious and time-consuming process of manually scheduling events. Another is wasting money by running the HVAC in empty rooms at night or on holidays. But now that LONG Building Technologies’  Washington office has partnered with Events2HVAC, we can offer a solution that not only optimizes scheduling for HVAC systems, but access control and lighting systems as well.

Building Automation Scheduling with Events2HVAC

Events2HVAC is a scheduling software connecting event calendars and room scheduling systems to automate HVAC, lighting, and security systems in commercial facilities. Though other scheduling software exists, Events2HVAC is the only one that pulls data from multiple scheduling systems and sends commands to the major systems in schools: HVAC, security and access control, and lighting. It is easy to use and cost-effective, making it a perfect solution for K-12 or higher education facilities with a variety of areas that have specific energy requirements.

With the software, you can schedule HVAC systems to turn off when you know students and staff are out of specific rooms, and pre-start them to ensure rooms are comfortable when occupants return. You can schedule the lighting of outdoor fields to turn on before and after sporting events. You can schedule the exact times when doors to gyms, locker rooms, or other buildings are locked and unlocked. Whatever your needs, Events2HVAC gives you a centralized method of managing these disparate systems across your school.

Benefits of HVAC, Access Control, and Lighting Scheduling

Save time: Facility managers can end up spending valuable time manually setting schedules for the many separate systems across a variety of buildings on school campuses. This not only increases labor costs but runs the risk of forgetting or overlooking one of importance. With Events2HVAC, facility managers can easily schedule events and spend their time on more important items. They’ll also gain peace of mind knowing they haven’t forgotten to turn the system off for the night.

Save energy: Events2HVAC uses your existing calendars and other inputs to dynamically schedule HVAC occupancy modes, so you run HVAC systems only when needed. This reduces HVAC runtimes by 50%+, slashing energy consumption. And because it works with access control systems and lighting, you’ll save additional energy. In addition, the software allows facility managers to set the priority level at which commands are sent to the building automation system, so you can better control your systems based off energy needs.

Meet financial and efficiency goals: Events2HVAC can help you reach budgetary goals, as you’ll save money by reducing labor costs and energy usage. It can also get your building LEED certified or help you achieve carbon neutral targets. And with better automation and scheduling over access control systems, you can protect important assets in your buildings. Beyond the software, the LONG team will work with you to assess your school facility needs and develop a cost-effective plan to help you reach your specific budget and efficiency goals.

Scheduling HVAC, access control, and lighting in your schools no longer has to be a time-consuming and expensive task. With Events2HVAC, facility managers get a simple, time-saving, energy efficient way to manage their various systems and save money. Reach out to LONG today to get started and generate a positive cashflow within weeks.

Proper maintenance of chillers in commercial buildings is crucial for ensuring efficient operation, reducing energy costs, and preventing costly breakdowns. Some may use internal maintenance teams while others may rely on external service providers to keep chillers up and running, but it’s important for facility directors to have a comprehensive maintenance plan and access to specialized HVAC expertise.

Chiller Services

LONG Building Technologies not only offers preventative maintenance services with a deep understanding of commercial HVAC systems, but we specialize in chillers. We have the only York Master Factory-Trained Technician in Oregon, so all chiller service work is done by a true expert who knows the equipment inside and out. From scheduled maintenance to emergency repairs to seasonal start-ups, we can help with all things chillers. Our team focuses on optimizing the performance of your chiller units, which can reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. We take a proactive approach to maintenance which allows us to identify potential issues before they become major problems, minimizing downtime and ensuring building comfort is not disrupted by unexpected chiller failures. By preventing breakdowns and improving efficiency, we help you save on operational costs and extend the lifespan of your chillers.

Beyond chiller maintenance, LONG Building Technologies offers a wide range of HVAC services, including system upgrades, retrofits, and energy management solutions. We understand that each building has unique requirements, so we develop tailored maintenance plans that are specifically designed to meet the needs of your facility. This comprehensive, customized method means that we can be your single point of contact for all your HVAC needs, providing consistency and reliability in service delivery. Whether it’s a regular preventive maintenance schedule or an emergency repair service, we have the expertise to keep your chillers or other commercial HVAC equipment running smoothly.

An additional aspect of our customized approach to maintenance plans is our unique understanding of Oregon’s climate and environmental and safety regulations. Oregon’s climate is characterized by seasonal variations that significantly impact HVAC systems and also have specific regulations that these systems must comply with. Some of these are:

Oregon Climate Challenges for HVAC Systems

1. Temperature Variations: Oregon experiences both hot summers and cold winters, requiring HVAC systems to be versatile and robust to handle these extremes.
2. Snowpack and Meltwater Dependence: Declining snowpack due to rising temperatures affects water supplies, impacting cooling systems that rely on consistent water availability.
3. Wildfire Risk: Increased frequency and intensity of wildfires lead to higher particulate matter in the air, demanding HVAC systems with enhanced filtration capabilities to ensure indoor air quality​.

Oregon Commercial Building Regulatory Requirements

1. Energy Efficiency Standards: The Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code mandates high efficiency for HVAC systems, necessitating regular maintenance and upgrades to meet these standards​​.
2. Refrigerant Regulations: The use of refrigerants is tightly controlled to minimize environmental impact, requiring systems to use only approved refrigerants.

Because we understand Oregon’s climate, we can account for these special challenges while developing your maintenance plan. For example, to combat the increased wildfire smoke, we provide advanced filtration options that maintain indoor air quality even during severe fire seasons. We also include strategies to manage the impacts of declining snowpack on cooling systems, ensuring reliable operation despite water supply fluctuations. Our team also stays updated with the latest regulatory changes to ensure that your chillers meet all local codes and standards, and that your facility meets and remains complaint, helping you avoid fines and legal issues.

Whether you are looking for chiller repairs or a preventative maintenance plan for your full commercial HVAC system, LONG has the expertise to ensure your facility operates efficiently, saves money, and remains complaint with local and state regulations. Click the button below to get a maintenance consultation with our team today.

Our Alaska office is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Rauland, a global leader in healthcare communication solutions. As Rauland’s only healthcare distribution partner in Alaska, we can provide sales, solution guidance, and technical and service support for customers. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both companies within in the Alaska market, reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technologies that enhance patient care and streamline healthcare operations.

Rauland Nurse Call Systems Key Benefits:

• Enhanced Patient Care: The integration of Rauland Nurse Call Systems will enable healthcare providers to respond promptly to patient needs, fostering a safer and more responsive care environment.
• Streamlined Operations: The combined strengths of LONG’s building technologies and Rauland’s communication solutions will streamline facility operations, optimizing resource allocation, improving overall efficiency, and reducing costs.
• Future-Ready Solutions: Together, LONG and Rauland are committed to developing and implementing innovative and flexible technologies that adapt to the evolving landscape of healthcare, ensuring sustained excellence.

Backed by Rauland, LONG can improve your healthcare operations to help you optimize what matters most – patient comfort. Reach out to us today to learn more about Rauland and see how it can help your healthcare facility.

As our technology advances, we get more options and functionality when it comes to security solutions for commercial buildings, but the danger of security breaches evolves along with it. Recently, vulnerabilities have increased with proximity cards, and any commercial building that uses them for their access control solutions may find themselves at risk. It’s important to be aware of the threats your security systems may face as well as the proper steps to mitigate their physical security risks.

Proximity Cards and Their Physical Security Risks

Using prox cards or keycards is a convenient and accessible solution for commercial buildings who need to dictate access for occupants, but these physical systems have inherent vulnerabilities. Cards can be stolen by thieves looking to gain access to secure areas, or simply be lost and end up in the wrong hands, leaving your assets exposed to risk down the line. In addition, people with malicious intent can tamper with card readers, rendering them ineffective. But the current and primary threat with proximity cards to be aware of is duplication.

One of the reasons commercial buildings began using card readers is because their new technology allowed for greater control and functionality. Keycards are effective, easy to use, and especially easy to dictate quick access and authorization for specific users. However, it’s also never been easier to duplicate a prox card. You’ve probably seen the kiosks in hardware or commercial retail stores that allow you to copy keys, but did you know these kiosks can now also copy keycards? In addition, there is a plethora of cheap and simple devices you can easily buy online that will duplicate cards as well. Now not only do you have to worry about keycards being stolen, but you’ll never know just how many copies exist out there and who has access to your building and assets.

Recommendations for Enhancing Physical Security

Now that you’re aware of the potential risks of proximity cards, let’s discuss ways to mitigate them. The best way to avoid the problem of duplication is to migrate to encrypted cards. Disabling proximity cards in multi-technology readers will prevent encrypted credentials from being duplicated to unencrypted cards. Though there will be an initial labor and cost investment in replacing these, it’s a smart switch to make, allowing you to still have the convenience of proximity cards but with tighter security measures against duplication.

Many of the physical threats discussed previously aren’t new to access control. The risk of theft or tampering has existed as long as physical keys have been used, and many of the safeguards to be put in place are the same as well. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure physical security:

• Implement policies to minimize the risk of card loss or theft, such as securing cards in designated holders
• Educate users so they are aware of the potential security threats
• Foster a sense of responsibility for users regarding proper handling of keycards
• Conduct regular inventory and audits to promptly identify missing cards and ensure that cards are assigned and distributed to authorized individuals
• Integrate access control with video surveillance to monitor access points

While there will always be potential risks with using proximity cards in commercial buildings, there are new technologies to implement and steps you can take to minimize them. As experts in security systems, LONG Building Technologies can assess your access control system to identify vulnerabilities and then develop the right solution to fill the gaps. It’s not just proximity cards either – we can provide, install, and service a variety of security systems for your commercial building. If you’re looking to make the switch to encrypted cards, add video surveillance to fortify security, or develop improved strategies for physical security risk mitigation, we can help.

In the heart of every educational institution lies a crucial system that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong – the boiler system. Whether it’s heating classrooms during chilly winters or providing hot water for various purposes, boilers play a vital role in maintaining a conducive environment for learning. However, to ensure their seamless operation, it’s imperative to understand the significance of regular boiler maintenance.

Why Commercial Boiler Maintenance Matters

• Safety First: Above all else, the safety of students and staff is paramount. Neglected boilers can pose serious risks, from gas leaks to potential explosions. Routine maintenance helps identify and address potential hazards, ensuring a safe learning environment for all.
• Efficiency Equals Savings: Efficient boiler operation translates to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. By keeping boilers well-maintained, schools can optimize energy use, freeing up resources for educational initiatives.
• Comfort Matters: Imagine trying to focus on learning in a cold classroom or without access to hot water for handwashing. Well-maintained boilers ensure consistent heating and hot water supply, contributing to a comfortable and productive environment.
• Preventing Disruptions: Equipment failures can disrupt the flow of daily activities. Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, reducing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted operations within the school.

Types of Boilers and Common Components

Boilers come in various types, each serving specific needs within school facilities:

• Oil Fired (Diesel): Utilizes oil as a fuel source, often found in older systems.
• Electric, Hot Water Boilers: Powered by electricity, suitable for areas with limited access to other fuel sources.
• Condensing Boilers: Highly efficient boilers that recover heat from exhaust gases, maximizing energy efficiency.
• Gas Fired, Hot Water Boilers: Runs on natural gas or propane, commonly used in modern installations.
• Steam Boilers: Generates steam for heating or power generation, typically found in larger facilities.

Common components of boilers include burners, heat exchangers, pumps, valves, and controls. Understanding these components is essential for effective maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Burners: Responsible for igniting and burning the fuel, producing heat within the boiler system.
• Heat Exchangers: Transfers heat from the combustion process to the water, raising its temperature to produce steam or hot water.
• Pumps: Circulates water or steam throughout the boiler system, ensuring proper distribution and flow.
• Valves: Controls the flow of water, steam, and fuel within the boiler, regulating pressure and temperature.
• Controls: Includes various devices such as thermostats, pressure switches, and safety controls to monitor and manage the boiler’s operation, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Commercial Boiler Maintenance Program

A comprehensive commercial boiler maintenance program should include the following tasks:

• Daily: Conduct visual inspections for leaks, unusual noises, or irregularities in boiler operation. Check water levels, pressure, and temperature readings.
• Weekly: Check contactors, blowdown, inspect and clean flue passages, and lubricate moving parts as necessary. Check expansion tank.
• Monthly: Test safety controls, including pressure relief valves and low-water cutoffs. Inspect heat exchangers and heating surfaces.
• Bi-Annually: Perform thorough inspections of all boiler components, including the oil circulation pump and safety devices.
• Yearly: Schedule professional inspections and tune-ups by qualified technicians. Conduct efficiency tests and combustion analysis.

Boiler Technicians and the Benefits of Outsourcing

Becoming a competent boiler maintenance technician requires specialized training covering boiler operations, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols. In Oregon and southwest Washington, LONG Building Technologies partners with UA Local 290 Plumbers and Steamfitters HVAC Union to access the most skilled labor in our market. We have the technicians with the necessary skills to safely manage your boiler maintenance program. Outsourcing maintenance to our technicians ensures thorough and expert care for boiler systems, providing peace of mind to school districts.

By prioritizing boiler maintenance, schools not only ensure the safety and comfort of students and staff but also contribute to a conducive learning environment. Maintaining conditioned learning environments positively impacts student performance and staff morale, fostering a community of excellence within our schools.

It’s National Women in Construction week, and this year we’re putting the spotlight on the incredible women who are the backbone of LONG. Being in a traditionally male-dominated field like commercial construction, women may be presented with a different set of challenges and biases which they must overcome, and this leads to some unique stories. We sat down with a few women who hold various roles within our company so they could share their personal journeys and offer advice to others entering the trades. Each one represents the strength, skill, and passion that helps make the LONG team exceptional.

Meet the Trailblazers

Supporting Women in the Trades

Though it may be Women in Construction week, LONG celebrates women in construction all year round. As an equal opportunity employer, we’re proud to foster an inclusive environment for all. We’re always looking for areas in which we can improve accommodations for the women who work for us. For example, there is a severe lack of PPE equipment and clothing designed for women, so we continually search for more equitable options and update our internal store as we discover them. Outside of LONG, we attend women-focused events and support women-focused causes. In 2023 and 2024, we were a sponsor of the Transportation & Construction GIRL event, which helps girls learn about financially sustainable careers in those fields. Our yearly endowment fund always includes women’s nonprofit organizations nominated by members of our team, in addition to offering matching contributions on donations made personally by employees.

Our partners at Armstrong World Industries have a variety of air purification and air filtration systems to help improve indoor air quality in commercial buildings.

Armstrong Air Purification and Filtration Systems

Armstrong has two main air purification systems to help with indoor air quality: the VidaShield UV24 and the StrataClean IQ. The VidaShield system uses unobtrusive in-room UV-C air cleaning technology that can neutralize 97% of bacteria, viruses, and allergens. Their StrataClean IQ air filtration system is also an in-room unit with a quiet, low profile. It utilizes MERV 13 filters and 3 fan speeds to optimize air changes.

How Do Air Purification Systems Work?

The StrataClean IQ system quietly captures airborne contaminates and filters them out of the air, creating cleaner and healthier environments. The VidaShield UV24 system uses ultraviolet light and filtration to neutralize pollutants. It draws air into the unit, treats it with UV light, and then recirculates the clean air back into the room. It is important to note that over time these systems will require some maintenance – every 4,000 hours of use for the StrataClean IQ and UV light replacement on the VidaShield every 12 months.

What Are the Benefits of Air Purification Systems?

These systems purify and filter the air in a space, creating cleaner and healthier environments with less pollutants. They are perfect solutions for high traffic public spaces such as schools or hospitals where pollutants can spread easily and it’s more important for healthy air quality, though they are also effective in commercial spaces and office buildings. As these systems are mounted in the ceiling, they take up less space. This location also means they can treat more air and are 35% more effective than floor-mounted air purification/filtration devices. Each of these systems is relatively easy to install and requires no HVAC system modification. In addition, they can be wired into current lighting systems or occupancy sensors to maximize air quality when spaces are occupied, and they only use 120 volts, so their energy consumption can be quite low.

If you are interested in getting Armstrong’s StrataClean IQ or VidaShield UV24 systems in your commercial facility for improved air quality, contact LONG.

All commercial facility owners should have a management and solutions program set in place. The LONG Building Technologies offices in Montana work with many facilities directors and property owners to develop and execute programs to help ensure their commercial buildings operate efficiently, decrease costs, and keep assets safe.

Commercial HVAC Service in Montana

We offer HVAC service for equipment needs like installation and upgrades on boilers, chillers, air handling units (AHUs), roof top units (RTUs), air distribution, air filtration, and more. Our LONG team will provide a Mechanical Service Agreement that works to provide preventive maintenance on your equipment to try and forecast any unforeseen or premature failures that can prevent expensive repairs and extended downtime. Detailed reports from the scheduled preventive maintenance will let you know what condition your equipment is in and any recommended services that may be required at that time.

Commercial Building Analytics

Building analytics, or our Impact-Driven Service offering, optimizes our commercial HVAC preventative maintenance abilities. With our fault detection and diagnostics (FDD) platform, we can provide further cost savings by analyzing your building equipment and then making the necessary adjustments or recommendations to ensure its operating at peak performance. The FDD platform also allows us to forecast when equipment will be at the end of its life expectancy and plan for replacement before the equipment becomes a problem. Our goal is to find ways that help you reduce energy consumption and save you money on your operating costs while receiving the best possible conditioned air quality.

LONG Montana Building Solutions

Having a commercial facility management and solutions team that can service HVAC equipment is a benefit and cost savings to you, but with LONG that’s not all you’ll get. We also offer building automation system (BAS) designs, installs, and upgrades, along with security solutions like video management systems and door security. Unique to our Montana office are fire safety and protection solutions as well.

As our partner, we will continually support you as your building needs change, forming a bond that builds confidence and trust as our collaboration grows. If you have any questions about how a facility management program with LONG Montana could save you money, extend the life of your equipment and systems, and keep your commercial building and occupants safe, please contact us.