System Design Overview

The System Design section is where you configure your HVAC systems, perform air balancing, design duct layouts, and select equipment.

Sections

Configuration

Set up central units and terminal equipment:

• Central unit capacity and airflow
• Terminal unit types and sizing
• Supply air temperatures
• Control strategies

Air Balancing

Balance airflow across the system:

• Zone airflow requirements
• Register and diffuser selection
• Pressure drop calculations
• Critical path analysis

Layout

Design the duct distribution system:

• Duct routing and sizing
• Fitting selection
• Pressure calculations
• 3D duct visualization

Selections

Select specific equipment:

• Equipment catalogs
• Model selection
• Performance verification
• Submittal generation

Workflow

The typical system design workflow:

1. Configure - Set central unit and terminal parameters
2. Balance - Distribute airflow and select registers
3. Layout - Route ducts and size components
4. Select - Choose specific equipment models

Each step builds on the previous, so work through them in order.

System Configuration

Before designing ductwork:

• Verify system loads are accurate
• Set appropriate supply air temperature
• Configure outdoor air requirements
• Select terminal unit types

Design Validation

HVAKR validates your system design:

• Airflow balance (supply = return + exhaust)
• Pressure drop within equipment limits
• Duct velocities within acceptable ranges
• Equipment capacity meets load

Best Practices

1. Finalize loads first - Complete building model before system design
2. Work system by system - Focus on one system at a time
3. Check air balance - Verify supply equals return plus exhaust
4. Validate equipment - Confirm selected equipment meets requirements
5. Document assumptions - Note design decisions for future reference