Common HVAC Design Mistakes in New Commercial Construction and How to Avoid Them
- Matthew Morey
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Many projects in British Columbia repeat the same design errors that lead to costly fixes, inefficient operation, and uncomfortable indoor environments. Understanding these common mistakes can help builders, designers, and facility managers avoid pitfalls and ensure HVAC systems perform well for years.
Why HVAC Design Matters
HVAC Systems are long-term assets. Once a building is occupied, correcting design issues becomes disruptive, expensive and can be limited in scope.
A good design balances:
Comfort
Energy Efficiency
Operating Costs
Future Flexibility
Mistake #1: Designing for Minimum Code
Meeting code does not mean the same as meeting building needs. We frequently see systems designed strictly to minimum BC Energy Code requirements, and undervalued models and brands. In reality, buildings evolve. Occupancy changes, equipment loads increase, and usages change. System designed too tightly often struggle after the first few years.
How to avoid it:
Design with realistic load assumptions and future adaptability in mind, not just code compliance.
Mistake #2: Oversizing & Under sizing Equipment
Improper equipment sizing remains one of the most common and costly mistakes.
What this means:
Oversized = Systems will short cycle, waste energy, and struggle with humidity control
Undersized = Systems will run constantly, wear out quick, and fail to meet comfort demands
Both of these issues lead to higher operating and utility costs, and reduces the lifespan of the existing equipment.
How to avoid it:
Accurate load calculations and coordination between design intent and real-world usage are essential
Mistake #3: Poor Zoning and Air Distribution
Commercial buildings often have diverse spaces with different heating and cooling needs. Treating the entire building as one zone leads to discomfort and wasted energy. For example, a conference room with many occupants may need more cooling than a storage area.
How to avoid it:
Design zoning around how spaces are actually used, not just floor area or mass space
Mistake #4: Neglecting Maintenance Access
HVAC systems require regular maintenance to operate efficiently. A design mistake is placing equipment or components in hard-to-reach locations. This discourages routine inspections and timely repairs.
Typical commercial warranty only covers 1 year. Due to this, maintenance access is not a luxury, it is a requirement to maintain your warranty.
How to avoid it:
Ensure there is enough clearance, access panels, and service pathways for technicians to service
Mistake #5: Failing to Plan for Future
Many commercial buildings in Kelowna eventually undergo, tenant improvements and space reconfiguration.
Systems designed without a future capacity or flexibility often require costly retrofits later.
How to avoid it:
Design with scale in mind, even if full capacity isn't needed immediately.
How Zoltera Mechanical Approaches HVAC Design
Our role in commercial construction is not simply to install equipment, it is to ensure systems perform as intended, can be maintained, and support long-term development.
We work closely with builders, engineers, and owners to identify risks and avoid them early on in the structure.
Ask us today for guidance on your next mechanical HVAC project
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