LonWorks was once a leading building automation protocol. If your building runs on LonWorks — particularly if built or renovated between 1995 and 2010 — you're not alone. But the landscape has shifted dramatically.
The Current Reality
BACnet has won. Most new construction specifies BACnet, most new products prioritize BACnet, and the talent pool has shifted accordingly.
LonWorks technicians are retiring, and few new technicians are learning the technology. Service costs are rising.
When to Consider Migration
Difficulty Finding Service
Struggling to find qualified providers, or service costs have increased significantly.
Equipment End-of-Life
If major components need replacement anyway — opportunity to migrate instead of hunting for LonWorks parts.
Integration Requirements
New equipment often speaks BACnet but not LonWorks. Native integration is simpler than gateways.
When to Stay with LonWorks
- System works well — meets operational needs with adequate service support
- Limited budget — strategic maintenance while planning eventual migration
- Building sale planned — focus on maintaining functionality until sale
- Good service relationship — reliable provider who knows your system
Migration Strategies
- Keep existing LonWorks controllers
- Add BACnet supervisory layer
- New equipment connects via BACnet
- Replace LonWorks as devices fail
- Start with priority areas
- Replace in budget-aligned phases
- Maintain operation throughout
- Eventually full BACnet
Cost Expectations
Making the Decision
- Assess current system health: How functional is your LonWorks system today?
- Evaluate service availability: Can you still get qualified, reasonably-priced service?
- Consider future requirements: What capabilities will you need?
- Review budget capacity: What capital is available, and when?
- Plan building lifecycle: What other changes are anticipated?
Getting Expert Advice
At Controls NYC, we have experience with both LonWorks systems and BACnet migration. We can help you assess your current system and plan a migration strategy that makes sense for your building.
Contact us for an honest evaluation of your LonWorks system.
Ready to Discuss Your Building?
Whether you're evaluating an upgrade, dealing with a failing system, or just want a second opinion — we're happy to talk through your options.
Schedule a Free Consultation