What it means
An HVAC system heats and cools air, moves it through ducts, brings in outdoor air, and removes stale air. Components can include rooftop units, furnaces, air handlers, boilers, chillers, fans, dampers, diffusers, thermostats and building controls.
Systems are divided into zones so that areas with different needs, like a sunny office and an interior meeting room, can be controlled separately.
Why it matters
In Alberta, HVAC has to handle long, cold winters and warm summers. Poorly planned systems lead to hot and cold spots, noise, high energy costs and complaints from staff or customers. Changes to a layout, such as new walls or added equipment, change how air needs to flow.
Ventilation is also a code matter, since spaces need enough fresh air for the number of people using them.
How HSM handles it
HSM has its own mechanical crew for HVAC and plumbing, supported by in-house engineering. We assess what the existing system can deliver, size ductwork and equipment for your layout, and install, start up and balance the system ourselves.
Because mechanical and electrical are both self-performed, power, controls and equipment connections are coordinated by one team. That avoids the common problem of one trade waiting for another to finish.
We also coordinate with your landlord when a project connects to base building systems.
What to plan for
Tell us how the space will be used, how many people will be in it and what equipment gives off heat. Those facts matter more to HVAC design than the floor area alone.