The Mastermind Behind Every HVAC Design
When we think of HVAC design we think about the equipment, or the drawing, or the materials. However, there is another detail to our blueprints that we often breeze over. In reality though, it is one of the most essential details that makes everything else possible: the initials of the person behind every exceptional HVAC Design.
Because of their crucial role in their work, HVAC Designers have busy schedules; but we are privileged to get a glimpse of their perspective. Below is a short interview with one of our most experienced designers. We asked him a few questions about how he works and why his work is important.
Lloyd has been a designer with ProCalcs since July 2020, working on pretty much any project, from residential to commercial, designing for both standard AC systems as well as complex multi-split systems. Before being one of the HVAC Design Experts here at ProCalcs, he worked for various other HVAC companies and was involved in operations in a hotel. While he is a family man who loves to eat, he believes that “No matter what life throws at you, you need to keep pushing.”
Before you start designing a project, what do you usually do first?
First, I’ll catch up with all the previous discussions about the project by reviewing the various conversations the client already had with the sales team. This will give me all the information that we have so far. Then, I check our scope of work and check for any missing information that we need to complete our scope. It’s important that I have all the details I need to complete an accurate calculation.
When selecting the appropriate HVAC equipment for a project, especially the brand, what factors or features do you consider?
When selecting equipment brand, I usually consider the availability of the equipment and parts and its compatibility with the space and zoning. It should be easily purchased. I also consider those brands with longer warranty options and after-sales support. In other instances, the client prefers selecting and providing for the equipment. Afterwards, we take into account the cost and energy efficiency of the unit.
What is the most difficult part of designing a system and why? How do you tackle such a challenge?
The most difficult part for me would be the duct layout. You have to consider if this will work with the structural components of the house. You will have to check the beams, trusses, and joists, and so you must learn how to read structural plans as well. You may have to propose certain architectural revisions for the duct layout to work. Sometimes, it is going to take a while to get the duct layout done. But I just make sure to take the time needed to understand the project, and come up with viable solutions to work around difficult areas.
What do you think is the most important aspect in doing HVAC Design?
I think the most important aspect is collecting all the information that we need. Some examples are insulation values, construction components, equipment type, etc. That is why we have our summary form, and we take time to get all the information that we need. A simple change to your window U-Values and SHGC will sometimes cause your unit to be undersized or oversized.
What issues do you usually encounter?
Sometimes, it is hard to pass the energy code calculation. There are many situations where the insulation values clients are using are just too low. There are also cases where the equipment that they wanted to install is not that efficient. So, what we must do is come up with solutions to suggest to our clients and give them options that will pass the energy code calculation.
Another issue that we encounter is after-the-fact projects. These are projects that were built before doing the documentation for the permit. Most of the time, the 500 square feet per ton rule of thumb was used to size the HVAC equipment and we know that this is not accurate.
What do you enjoy most about HVAC design?
HVAC design can be challenging, especially for complicated projects such as a clinic, a pet shop, a nail salon, etc. These have different requirements from offices or retail so you must research the code to make sure that everything will comply. It gives me a sense of fulfillment to finish such projects.
I also appreciate seeing my previous designs being installed or seeing them completed and working. I sometimes browse social media and see if there are any posts with photos of previous projects when completed.
There you have it folks! If you are an individual who’s also interested to take this journey, or just someone who’s curious how HVAC System works, visit our YouTube Channel to learn more about HVAC Designs.
If you have any questions or want to talk about possible solutions for your home, send us an email at [email protected]