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For Engineers and Specifiers
Resources for Engineers and Specifiers
Everything you need to evaluate, specify and coordinate a BERT plug and process load management system: where it fits in a design, the guide specification, controller selection and product data.
Where BERT Fits in a Design
A BAS manages HVAC, central plant, and selected lighting. BERT manages the plug and process loads a BAS usually does not reach: printers, displays, charging carts, window AC, PTACs, and similar equipment. The two work side by side.
Controllers measure and switch each approved load and keep their own schedules. The on-site BERTBrain Gateway runs BERTBrain, and your team uses it in a web browser. BERT runs standalone by default, with optional BERT Connect (BACnet/IP) or REST API integration when a project calls for it.
Core Guide Specification, Section 26 09 80
An editable Word specification for design professionals, covering controller selection, application limits, network coordination, installation, commissioning and acceptance. Architects, engineers, ESCOs, owners and authorized partners may adapt it for project specifications involving BERT products. It's a starting point, not a stamped design.
We email the file to the company address you enter. Most requests are sent right away; a few are reviewed by our team first.
Controller Selection and Ratings
- Smart Plug 110 AP (production): workstations (whole desk on one controller through a power strip), printers and copiers, displays and smartboards, charging carts, water coolers, air scrubbers. 125 VAC; up to 15 A. Plug-in; secured with the BERT security screw.
- Inline 120I-20A (production): window AC, point-of-use water heaters, circulation pumps, exhaust fans, lighting circuits, nominal 120 V hardwired. 250 VAC max; 20 A. Licensed electrician; 2.5 in / 18 cu in box.
- Inline 240I-20A (production): PTACs and PTHPs, window AC, water heaters, split-system AC, exhaust fans, nominal 208/240 V hardwired. 250 VAC max; 20 A. Licensed electrician; 2.5 in / 18 cu in box.
- Inline 240I-30A (production): larger PTACs and PTHPs, window AC, storage water heaters, split-system AC, nominal 208/240 V hardwired. 250 VAC max; 30 A. Licensed electrician; 2.5 in / 30 cu in box.
- Wall Outlet 110 WO (preliminary; late Q4 2026): office, classroom, conference, and break-room receptacles, two independently controlled. 125 VAC planned; 15 A and 20 A variants planned. Licensed electrician; standard single-gang box.
From current BERT data sheets. Loads above 250 VAC or 30 A, or outside a model's rating, are not controlled with the current portfolio.
Product Data Sheets
- Smart Plug 110 AP Data Sheet (PDF)
- Inline Series Data Sheet (PDF)
- Inline 120I-20A Data Sheet (PDF)
- Inline 240I-20A Data Sheet (PDF)
- Inline 240I-30A Data Sheet (PDF)
- Wall Outlet 110 WO Preliminary Data Sheet (PDF)
- BERTBrain Software Data Sheet (PDF)
Ratings for every controller are also on the Products page. BERTBrain specifications are also on the BERTBrain Software page. The 110 WO is preliminary, with availability planned for late Q4 2026.
Schedules and Sequences
Each BERT controller stores its own schedules and settings. Authorized BERTBrain users can set daily, weekly, recurring, holiday, and special-event schedules for any device or group, and power is back on before the scheduled start of the day.
Beyond on/off scheduling, BERT uses threshold logic so equipment such as projectors can finish a cool-down cycle, and temperature logic with restart safeguards.
Every BERT controller has an override button. Press and hold it for a few seconds, until the light changes and you hear a click, to turn the device on or off. Depending on how your facility set it up, it stays that way until the next scheduled event or for a set time, such as 1, 2 or 3 hours, and then the normal schedule resumes.
Design Limits and Application Notes
- Direct control up to 250 VAC and 30 A, never above the selected model's rating
- Inline controllers and the 110 WO are installed by a qualified licensed electrician
- Controllers are for indoor use
- Life-safety, emergency, security, medical-support, server and core network equipment are not controlled
- Refrigerators and vending are controlled only with non-perishable goods, or empty
Computers
BERT doesn't cut power to computers that need to stay on. At installation, desktop computers go on an uncontrolled outlet, while monitors, docking stations and other desk equipment stay on the controlled schedule.
Override-Friendly Placement
BERT prefers to install controllers where the person at the device can reach the override, not above a dropped ceiling or in another hard-to-reach spot.
PTAC, PTHP and Window Units on a Wall Switch
Where a PTAC, PTHP or window unit is fed through a wall switch, a BERT Inline controller often fits in its place, within its 250 VAC, 20 or 30 A rating. The override button on the controller then serves as the local on/off. The 30 A model is wider and needs a larger box (see the data sheet for box size). Customers often keep the unit's own cord and plug, so maintenance can swap a failed unit without calling an electrician.
Who Installs BERT
Customers can work with BERT directly or through a BERT partner. In most areas of the country, BERT can manage installation end to end with BERT-authorized technicians, or a qualified contractor installs with BERT's support.
Hardwired controllers are installed by a qualified licensed electrician, with BERT handling configuration, communications and commissioning. Throughout, BERT works with the project team, with your continued involvement as the specifying engineer.
Network and IT at a Glance
- BERT controllers join the building's existing Wi-Fi network; a dedicated or segmented IoT network is commonly recommended.
- Outbound only: every connection starts at the BERTBrain Gateway, with no inbound ports to open.
- Only the BERTBrain Gateway needs a fixed IP address: a static private IP or a DHCP reservation both work.
Savings Methodology
BERT estimates savings before the sale, then measures a 30- or 45-day baseline after installation and reports actual savings against it. The method is informed by ASHRAE Standards 100 and 211, IPMVP and ASHRAE Guideline 14.
Energy Codes
Current commercial energy codes include plug load control requirements. The design professional and the authority having jurisdiction determine what applies to each project.
LEED v5 Coordination
Project teams may use BERT to support these LEED v5 items (July 2026 rating system editions):
- BD+C EAc3 / ID+C EAc2 Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Plug Load Management option. BERT provides the occupant plug load dashboard, device-level metering, and automatic control. The owner provides the IT policy for turning off PCs, monitors, and displays when they aren't in use.
- BD+C EAc6 / ID+C EAc5 Grid Interactive, automated demand response. BERT's automatic receptacle control can serve as one of the controlled systems. The option requires at least two systems, plus interval metering and equipment that can accept an external signal.
- O+M EAc6 Peak Load Management. BERT-controlled loads can contribute to the required automatic peak reduction. Other building systems and a documented test event are also required.
BERT doesn't earn any credit by itself. It provides device-level data and documentation to support the submittal. Confirm current credit requirements with the project's LEED consultant.
Common Questions
- Does BERT have to integrate with our building automation system?
- Are BERT products listed and certified?
- What size loads does BERT control?
- Which devices are generally not controlled by BERT?
- Does BERT help meet energy code requirements for controlled receptacles?
- Can BERT help with LEED?
- Who installs BERT?
- All Questions →
In the Partner Portal
For authorized partners and project teams:
- Solution & Application Guide
- Savings Calculation & M&V Support Methodology
- Baseline Interpretation & Annual Savings Calculation
- Standard Statement of Work
- Guide Specification (Word)