Tool Lending Library - Smart Buildings Center

PLEASE NOTE: As a precautionary measure due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Smart Buildings Center’s Tool Lending Library is temporarily suspending operations through the end of March. At that time, we will assess whether to resume operations, based on guidelines from local health authorities. Reservations placed during this time will be filled in the order they were received, once library operations resume. Current loans will be extended through 3/31/20. We will post any updates here. Smart Buildings Center staff will be working remotely and email will continue to be monitored. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

The SBC hosts a lending “library” of diagnostic tools available to building owners and managers, as well as energy service professionals in Washington State and Oregon, for short term data collection on energy using equipment and systems in commercial and institutional buildings. Often the first step in achieving operational excellence is gaining an understanding of how systems in the building are actually operating. The SBC can help by loaning a range of data loggers, power meters, lighting loggers, infrared cameras, liquid and air flow measurement devices, and much more. Users can access these tools free of charge for prescribed time periods and capture data on system performance. Analyzing these data can troubleshoot performance problems and create actionable information that can fine-tune building performance.

The SBC can help you with information on how to use these diagnostic tools correctly as well as guide you on the best ways to analyze collected information and use that information to take energy and cost savings steps.

How to Request a Tool

Most tools are available for a period of 1 week depending on demand. Data loggers are typically available for 2-4 weeks. To check out tools, please complete the following steps:

Read the Tool Lending Library Policy and Customer Agreement
Browse our inventory
Create a new account or log in to your existing account and reserve the tools you need
Tool Library staff will follow up with your request (it could take up to two days)
Make arrangements for shipping or pick up

Tools can be picked up Tues-Thurs from 9am to 4pm. You must email ahead to confirm that your order has been filled. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.

Please note: tool requests are subject to availability and existing demand. To avoid disappointment, please wait for a confirmation (it could take up to two days) from the Tool Library staff prior to scheduling your project.

Tool Inventory

Available tools include loggers, logger sensors, power and light meters, air flow tools and more. Browse the tool inventory online or view our Tool List (PDF). If you don’t see a specific tool you need, please contact us.

Tool Resources – Notes, Guides, & Information

Our library of videos and application notes has information on measurement techniques, step-by-step instructions for some tools, and useful tips. It’s a great place to start exploring all the potential applications of our inventory.