Resource
Commercial HVAC Planning Checklist
A practical checklist for owners and architects preparing to design or replace a commercial HVAC system.
Reviewed by
Michael K. Frempong, PE, LEED AP BD+C
President & Principal Engineer, BEED Engineering
Michael is a professional engineer and LEED AP BD+C accredited professional with more than 20 years of consulting engineering experience. He leads BEED Engineering's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design work for commercial, healthcare, laboratory, education, industrial, and other building projects throughout Central Florida and the Treasure Coast.
View BEED team profileHow to use this checklist
Bring these items to the first design meeting. Missing information is the usual reason HVAC scope and fees stay vague.
Building and occupancy
- Building type and occupancy
- Occupant count and operating hours
- Special spaces (IT, clinic, lab, kitchen, storage)
- Known comfort or humidity complaints
Indoor conditions
- Temperature targets
- Humidity targets
- Outdoor-air expectations
- Filtration needs
See humidity control.
Existing systems
- Equipment list and age
- Electrical capacity available for mechanical loads
- Ceiling height and roof structure constraints
- Controls front-end, if any
A facility assessment may be the right first step.
Project goals
- Replacement, renovation, or new building
- Energy and maintenance priorities
- Shutdown limitations
- Commissioning expectations
Continue with the commercial HVAC design guide.
Related Questions
Commercial HVAC Design: A Guide for Building Owners
A practical owner’s guide to commercial HVAC design decisions, from system type and humidity control to controls, maintenance access, and when to hire an engineer.
What Is HVAC Engineering?
HVAC engineering is the design of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems that control temperature, humidity, ventilation, and indoor air quality.
How Do You Control Humidity in a Commercial Building?
Commercial humidity control depends on dehumidification at the cooling coil, proper outdoor-air treatment, runtime, and controls—not just a lower thermostat setpoint.
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Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning design for occupant comfort, indoor air quality, and energy performance.
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