
Case Study - Istana Negara
The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) in achieving energy efficiency and optimal performance in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems of a large commercial building. The building, referred to as Building X, is a 25-story high-rise office building located in downtown Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Building X was designed to be a sustainable and energy-efficient building, with features such as high-performance glass, energy-efficient lighting, and a variable air volume (VAV) HVAC system. However, despite these energy-saving measures, the building was not achieving its expected energy efficiency and was experiencing occupant comfort issues.
The purpose of this case study is to describe the TAB process implemented in Building X, including the pre-TAB assessment, TAB implementation, and results achieved. This case study provides an example of how TAB can improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort in a commercial building.
Background
Building X’s MEP systems include a central chilled water plant, air-handling units (AHUs), fan coil units (FCUs), and variable air volume (VAV) boxes. The VAV system provides air conditioning to the building’s occupants, and the chilled water plant provides cooling to the AHUs and FCUs.
The TAB process is an essential component of optimizing the performance of these MEP systems, ensuring that they are operating at their maximum efficiency and providing optimal occupant comfort. TAB involves a series of measurements and adjustments to the building’s HVAC systems, including air and water balancing, equipment testing, and system optimization.
Pre-TAB Assessment
The TAB team conducted a pre-TAB assessment of Building X, including a site visit, equipment review, and data collection. The assessment revealed that the building’s HVAC systems were not operating at their maximum efficiency, with some equipment overworking and others underperforming. The assessment also revealed that the building’s occupant comfort issues were due to uneven temperature distribution and poor air quality.
TAB Implementation
Based on the findings of the pre-TAB assessment, the TAB team implemented a series of adjustments and optimizations to the building’s MEP systems. These adjustments included air and water balancing, equipment testing, and system optimization.
The team conducted air balancing tests on the VAV boxes to ensure that the air distribution was balanced across the building’s floors. Water balancing tests were conducted on the chilled water plant to ensure that the flow rates were optimal for each piece of equipment. The TAB team also conducted equipment testing on the AHUs and FCUs to ensure that they were operating at their maximum efficiency. Finally, the team optimized the VAV system by adjusting the set points and control strategies to improve occupant comfort.
Results
After the TAB implementation, Building X achieved significant energy savings and improved occupant comfort. The TAB implementation resulted in a 15% reduction in energy consumption, and occupant comfort issues were resolved. The air quality also improved, and the building’s indoor air quality (IAQ) index improved by 20%.
Lessons Learned
The TAB implementation in Building X highlighted the importance of pre-TAB assessments in identifying and addressing potential issues before the TAB process begins. It also emphasized the importance of conducting regular maintenance to ensure that MEP systems are operating at their maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this case study demonstrated the effectiveness of TAB in improving energy efficiency and occupant comfort in a commercial building. By implementing the TAB process, Building X achieved significant energy savings and resolved occupant comfort issues. Building owners and operators should consider implementing TAB as part of their energy efficiency measures to improve the overall sustainability and efficiency of their buildings.
A Tale of Temperatures - Restoring Serenity to a Palace in Jalan Duta

Project Details
The Grandeur of the Setting
Tucked away in the plush neighborhood of Jalan Duta in Kuala Lumpur, a majestic palace stood in all its splendor. Behind its elegant facade and luxurious interiors, the palace was a marvel of modern technology, housing an extensive HVAC system:
- 111 Air Handling Units (AHUs)
- 208 Fan Coil Units (FCUs)
- 111 AHU Chilled Water Valves
- 208 FCU Chilled Water Valves
The Unseen Trouble
Despite the advanced HVAC system, the palace struggled with uneven heating and cooling and poor air quality. The energy bills were astronomical, painting a picture of inefficient energy use.



The Royal Request - Our Call to Duty
Faced with these challenges, the palace management turned to us. Our team of certified TAB professionals began their mission to restore balance and comfort to the palace.
1. The Investigation Begins
2. Adjusting the Scales
3. Balancing Act
4. The Confirmation
5. Training the Guard
The Return of Comfort and Peace
The outcome of our efforts was notable. Temperatures stabilized, air quality improved dramatically, and energy consumption dropped by 25%. This case study is a testament to the transformative power of professional TAB services in enhancing HVAC system performance and ensuring occupant comfort.