Building services are not just for modern and automated buildings. In fact, a particular challenge for those with building services jobs is to bring historical buildings technically up-to-date while preserving and even enhancing their structure and visual impact. All new equipment and facilities need to be discreetly installed, with drilling and other invasive fixings being kept to a minimum. A good example is found in the recent refurbishment of the Charterhouse in Godalming, Surrey.

The Charterhouse is one of the great historic schools of England and dates back to 1611. The refurbishment, conducted by PA Collacott & Company, aimed to address three main requirements – interoperability, integration of old and new building services, and preparation for future additions of building control.

It was the responsibility of those with building services jobs to install appropriate and reliable building management systems (BMS) that provide monitoring and control of the school’s heating, cooling and ventilation facilities. Existing sensors and cabling were also integrated into the BMS to save cost and installation time.

Meanwhile, natural ventilation, underfloor heating and high-efficiency boiler, pump and lighting systems were utilised to reduce energy usage. All control and monitoring of the school’s gas, electricity and water facilities were automated through the BMS. Such enhanced management will make future building services jobs easier, by enabling mechanical and electrical engineers to quickly conduct necessary maintenance while ensuring the correct protection of the historic building. Those with building services jobs can respond to and resolve all problems without disturbing the building’s occupants.