SBA 484: Breaking Down HVAC Load Calculations
Release Date: 02/27/2025
SBA 500: The History of Smart Buildings Academy
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast examines the transformation of a side project into one of the most recognized training providers in the building automation industry. It focuses on the strategic shifts, leadership lessons, and systemized processes that shaped Smart Buildings Academy from its inception to its current impact. The story shared in this episode mirrors challenges many building automation professionals face when growing their careers or businesses. It presents a clear view into what it takes to scale, adapt, and lead with purpose. Key topics covered include: ...
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SBA 499: The ROI of BAS Training
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
If you're leading teams, overseeing projects, or managing budgets in building automation, this episode is for you. Training isn't just a line item. It affects how fast your jobs get done, how often your clients call back, and how long your employees stick around. This conversation challenges how you think about the cost of training by showing what happens when you measure its value the right way. Instead of guessing, you'll learn how to track real numbers, get better results, and build a stronger team. You’ll hear case studies, practical metrics, and a clear process for capturing what...
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SBA 498: The True Cost of Band-Aid Fixes in Building Operations
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
In the latest episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will uncover what lies beneath temporary fixes that may seem harmless but carry significant hidden costs. If you've ever overridden an alarm to stop complaints or zip-tied a damper and walked away, this episode is for you. This conversation examines the operational, financial, and safety impacts of short-term solutions. It also prompts a critical look at what these practices are truly costing your facility. In this episode, you will explore: What qualifies as a "band-aid fix" and why they are widespread The escalating risks...
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SBA 497: The Life Cycle of a BAS Project
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
Explore the full BAS project lifecycle in this episode, from sales and design to installation and service. This episode is for building automation professionals who want a sharper understanding of how BAS projects develop from concept to ongoing service. Whether you focus on sales, design, installation, or support, this discussion outlines what makes a project succeed at every stage. You will walk through each phase of a BAS project and learn where common pitfalls emerge. The episode offers insight into aligning teams, improving documentation, and supporting system performance after handoff....
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SBA 496: Revolutionizing HVAC – The Rise of VRF Systems
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
Is your HVAC knowledge aligned with today’s smart building demands? This episode explores variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and their growing role in building automation. As building complexity increases and energy efficiency becomes a priority, VRF systems offer a different approach that requires new skills and understanding from BAS professionals. If you work in building automation, this conversation will help you see where the industry is heading and what it means for your work. Topics covered: Why VRF systems are gaining widespread adoption How VRF components interact to enable...
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SBA 495: Why Most Building Automation Systems Are Underutilized
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
Many building automation systems are operating far below their potential. If you're only using basic features or managing your system with limited insight, you are likely missing out on performance, energy savings, and operational efficiency. This episode focuses on you - the facility manager, the BAS technician, the energy consultant - and how to unlock the full capabilities of your system. You will hear real-world examples that highlight common issues and overlooked opportunities. More importantly, you will gain a new perspective on how to reclaim control and value from your existing...
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SBA 494: How Trained Operators Reduce Energy Costs & Downtime
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on a key factor affecting building performance and operational cost: the building operator. If energy costs remain high despite efficient equipment, or tenant complaints persist after BAS upgrades, the problem may lie in overlooked operational practices. This episode examines how operator actions directly influence energy use, system performance, and downtime. Designed for professionals managing facility systems and operations, the episode highlights what separates underperforming buildings from optimized ones. Topics include:...
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SBA 493: Instructor Roundtable
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on critical discussions that directly impact building automation professionals. Instructors Matt Scott, Ethan Morris, and Michael Roper explore the evolving relationship between BAS professionals and IT departments, common pitfalls in BAS specifications, and the practical value of trend logging. The conversation is centered on real-world challenges and strategies for success in modern building projects. The team shares insights based on field experiences, addressing issues that affect system performance, project timelines, and...
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SBA 492: Breaking Down ASHRAE 62.1
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
Good air is about performance, health, and operational excellence. This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast explores the critical role that ASHRAE 62.1 plays in creating environments where people can thrive. Controls technicians, facilities managers, commissioning agents, and mechanical designers will benefit from understanding this essential ventilation standard. Building professionals often recognize the importance of indoor air quality but may struggle to achieve it consistently. This episode highlights why simply moving air is not enough and what it takes to deliver clean,...
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SBA 491: Breaking Down ASHRAE 90.1
The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology
If you've worked on new construction, retrofits, or green building certifications, ASHRAE 90.1 is already familiar. However, using it effectively is another matter. This episode focuses on how ASHRAE 90.1 influences your designs, energy compliance, and system planning. The discussion clarifies how this standard applies across key areas and what it means for your daily responsibilities in building automation. For professionals seeking to improve building performance, align with energy codes, or support LEED goals, this episode offers practical context. Topics covered include: The building...
info_outlineHave you ever walked into a building and felt too hot, too cold, or just plain uncomfortable even though the HVAC system is running? If so, the problem might not be the thermostat but the way the system was designed. In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, our instructors, Joe & Matt, break down what HVAC load calculations are, why they matter, and how they impact comfort, efficiency, and cost.
Whether you work in building automation, HVAC design, or facility management, understanding load calculations is key. This discussion will help you recognize common mistakes, ask the right questions, and optimize system performance without getting lost in the math.
What You’ll Learn:
- The science behind HVAC load calculations and how they shape building performance
- Why oversizing and undersizing HVAC equipment can create big problems
- How occupancy, lighting, and air changes impact system design
- The role of ASHRAE standards in ensuring efficiency and comfort
- Practical strategies for improving energy efficiency while maintaining indoor air quality
If you are serious about optimizing HVAC systems and building performance, you will not want to miss it. Tune in and gain the insights to keep your buildings running at peak efficiency.