HVAC DESIGN ERRORS AND THEIR IMPACT ON USERS
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are an integral part of modern residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. More than just air conditioning, HVAC systems directly affect indoor air quality (IAQ), energy consumption, and the health and performance of people living or working in that space.
However, in reality, many buildings encounter serious problems due to HVAC design errors. These errors are not only financially costly, but also have a profound impact on the end-user experience.
1. Common HVAC Design Errors and Their Causes
1.1. Heat load calculation error
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Reason
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Use estimation formulas instead of precise thermal load simulation software.
Ignore the effects of glazing, orientation, insulation, interior fittings and occupancy.
Do not update when architectural design changes.
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Consequence:
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Air conditioner capacity is too small → not enough cooling/heating.
Machine capacity is too large → constantly turning on/off, wasting energy and reducing the life of the device.
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1.2. Poor air distribution design
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Reason:
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Inappropriate supply/return air vent arrangement.
Failure to use CFD simulation to check air flow.
Duct design is too long, has many bends or uses incorrect sound-absorbing materials.
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Consequence:
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Uneven temperature distribution: some places are too cold, some places are not cool enough.
Wind blowing directly on people causes discomfort or respiratory diseases.
Creating hot/cold spots in the space makes the air conditioner work too hard.
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1.3. Ignoring ventilation or improper design
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Reason:
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No clear separation between fresh air supply and return air systems.
No use of energy recovery heat exchangers (ERV/HRV).
Ignoring the role of mechanical ventilation in enclosed buildings (such as apartments, offices).
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Consequence:
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Poor indoor air quality, high CO₂ concentration, easy to cause drowsiness, headache.
Accumulation of odors, bacteria, fungi.
Increased risk of airborne infectious diseases.
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1.4. Design of smoke and exhaust system is not up to standard
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Reason:
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Sharing the same exhaust pipe for multiple floors without a flow prevention solution.
Not placing the exhaust head in the right position (near the ceiling of the bathroom, kitchen, etc.).
Forgetting the air compensation system.
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Consequence:
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Odors and smoke can back up into other areas.
Causing health and hygiene problems.
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1.5. Does not account for HVAC system noise
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Reason:
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Use high-capacity fans without soundproofing.
No soundproofing of air ducts, no shock absorbers.
Ignore the noise of the condenser located near the living area.
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Consequence:
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Noise causes insomnia, discomfort, psychological effects and the ability to concentrate.
Reduces the value of the working or living space.
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1.6. Not taking into account operability and maintenance
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Reason:
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Equipment is located in difficult to access locations (e.g. low ceilings, no technical access).
No shut-off valves, drip trays, no clear system zoning.
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Consequence:
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High maintenance costs.
Easy to cause water leakage, affecting the ceiling structure and interior.
Reduces the life of the entire system.
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2. The Impact of Poor HVAC Design on Users
2.1. Health effects
Closed, poorly ventilated environments can easily lead to:
- Sick Building Syndrome – headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea.
- Allergies caused by dust, pollen, bacteria accumulating in the system.
- Respiratory problems caused by mold or low temperatures.
2.2. Ảnh hưởng đến năng suất làm việc
- Working space that is too hot or too cold causes discomfort.
- Too large a temperature difference between areas → workers lose focus and get tired easily.
- HVAC noise can affect concentration, especially in open offices.
2.3. Mental and emotional impact
- People who use the space often feel uncomfortable.
- Prolonged discomfort leads to stress, insomnia, and mild depression in the living space.
- Customers and partners lose sympathy for unprofessional working spaces.
2.4. High operating and usage costs
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System operation is not designed properly → energy consumption, increasing electricity bills.
Equipment quickly breaks down due to overload or improper operation → costly repairs.
Need to replace earlier than expected life cycle.
3. Solutions to overcome and prevent
3.1. Design right from the start
- Use specialized software such as HAP, Trace 700, Revit MEP, CFD to simulate loads and air flows.
- Calculate according to ASHRAE standards, TCVN 5687:2010 (Ventilation - Air conditioning).
3.2. Ensure air flow and quality
- Always have a fresh air supply, calculated according to the population density.
- Use air filtration equipment if the outdoor air is polluted.
- Consider ERV/HRV systems to save energy and improve IAQ quality.
3.3. Noise reduction
- Choose low-noise equipment.
- Soundproof the condenser/evaporator and air ducts.
- Use sound absorbers and dampers at fans and air vents.
3.4. Optimize maintenance
- Design clear access to main equipment (evaporator, air filter, valve…).
- Provide enough technical space.
- Design clear system zoning for easy control.
HVAC system design cannot be taken lightly – it has a comprehensive impact on comfort, health, productivity and even the professional image of the building. Small errors in calculation, equipment layout or air flow distribution can have long-term consequences, difficult to repair and very expensive.
Investing in a standard HVAC system right from the design stage is the most optimal way to ensure operational efficiency, user satisfaction and long-term cost savings.
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Source: Compiled from the Internet
