Building owners and facility managers are turning to technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort while striving to reduce operating and maintenance costs. Using an array of wireless sensors, those responsible for building operations can automatically collect data to monitor energy usage, infrastructure issues, room usage, supply levels, and more, turning their building into a data-driven resource—one with insights A smart building with everything inside.

Building owners and facility managers are turning to technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort while striving to reduce operating and maintenance costs.

Equipping buildings with networked wireless sensors that collect and report data about the environment, such as water and gas leaks, lighting, HVAC operations, and security, and share this information in real time, allows building managers to automate and optimize operations. But not all networks are created equal. For companies looking to benefit from sensor-enabled building management, LoRa Wide Area Networks with flexible deployment options and powerful management features provide a cost-effective, efficient and secure solution for device connectivity.

Why LoRaWAN is Beneficial for Building Owners and Facility Managers

LoRaWAN is a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) communications protocol ideal for large structures ranging from office buildings, multi-dwelling units, hotels and restaurants to airports, convention centers and even universities and corporations All places on campus. It has several advantages, including:

•  Long range : LoRaWAN devices can communicate over long distances, making them ideal for use in large buildings or campuses.
•  Low power consumption : LoRaWAN devices have very low power consumption, which means they can run for 10-15 years on a single battery.
•  Security : The LoRaWAN protocol provides end-to-end 128-bit AES encryption combined with multiple modes of operation for integrity protection. Forward-thinking network operators are also supporting additional security layers such as MTE (MicroToken Exchange) to support critical infrastructure and essential business applications.

LoRaWAN also has strong propagation characteristics that can maintain connectivity between hard-to-reach localized areas while transmitting data through building materials and dense enclosures such as steel walls or thick concrete.

LoRaWAN Use Cases in Buildings and Campuses
With a LoRaWAN network, building and facility managers can automate existing manual processes and improve infrastructure and system operations in critical areas. Here are a few ways LoRaWAN is being used in buildings and campuses.

• Infrastructure monitoring : IoT devices can be used to monitor the operation and usage of equipment to identify areas where energy is being wasted or identify potential mechanical problems before they occur. For example, by deploying sensors on HVAC systems, water and gas lines, or for steam trap and boiler monitoring, leaks, malfunctions and failures can be detected more quickly. Addressing emergencies or failures early can prevent significant and costly impacts to physical buildings and their occupants, while saving energy and money over time through rapid response and predictive maintenance.

• Water Leak Detection : Water leak detection using LoRaWAN is ideal to provide 24×7 visibility and prevent unnoticed water damage. With real-time water leak notifications, construction engineering and maintenance resources can take preventive actions to avoid flooding, damage and loss.

• Gas Leak Detection : Natural gas detectors using LoRaWAN can alert residents, workers and staff of leaks to facilitate rapid evacuation and notify maintenance and security personnel of emergency service needs. Since gas leaks from residential and commercial equipment contribute significantly to global warming, proactive detection and repair of leaks can also help reduce this negative impact on the environment.

• Environmental monitoring : LoRaWAN sensors can be used to monitor environmental conditions in buildings and campuses, such as temperature, humidity, light, motion, and air quality. This information can then be used to adjust the building's environmental systems to keep occupants safe and comfortable.

• Sub-Metering (Water, Gas, Electricity) : LoRaWAN is an excellent network choice for sub-metering in large commercial, mixed-use or multi-family buildings where there are long distances between units or utility service locations. LoRaWAN's long-range capabilities eliminate the need for network extenders or repeaters, helping to reduce infrastructure installation and maintenance costs. In addition to accurately measuring usage and simplifying billing, sub-metering systems can help homeowners maximize energy efficiency, reduce operating expenses, increase operating income, and improve property valuations.

• Asset and Supplies Tracking : Networked devices can be used in warehouses, convention centers, airports, and college and university campuses to track the location of equipment or inventory inside and outside buildings. Tracking deliveries, timely replenishment of supplies, and improving asset availability and usage can have a significant impact on facility operations and associated costs.

• Resident experience : LoRaWAN devices can be used to provide residents with real-time information about buildings, such as parking availability, workspace and equipment availability. Armed with this information, occupants can make better decisions about when and how to use the building. Improving the occupant experience increases productivity and well-being.

• Security : Networked sensors can be used in residential, commercial, retail and educational facilities to monitor windows and doors to detect unauthorized access, opening or unsafe conditions or unexpected movement. This information can be used to alert security personnel to potential risks/hazards, preventing potential theft or vandalism and creating a safer environment.

These use cases are just one example of how LoRaWAN networks and devices can be used, and new devices and use cases are constantly expanding the possibilities.

Unlocking the Potential of Smart Buildings

In an era of rapid technological advancement and changing occupant expectations, building owners are challenged to meet high demands while making timely investments. Network connectivity plays a vital role in the smart building puzzle, and while it has traditionally been a hurdle, exploring innovative solutions like LoRaWAN can revolutionize the way building owners serve their occupants and stakeholders .

By integrating smart building systems with LoRaWAN networks, building owners and managers can unlock vast amounts of actionable data, enhance operational visibility, gain valuable insights, and improve occupant experiences. Additionally, cost-effective sensor networks offer homeowners and insurance providers a proven solution to proactively reduce risk and lower maintenance and repair costs, thereby increasing the market value of a property.

By embracing the power of LoRaWAN, building owners can open the door to a smarter, more efficient and future-proof built environment.