Mechanical Engineering

Accurate heating and cooling load calculations form the foundation of every successful HVAC design. At EBS Engineering PC, we perform detailed load modeling using industry-standard software and methodologies endorsed by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) to ensure that every system we design is properly sized — neither oversized (which wastes energy and capital) nor undersized (which compromises occupant comfort).

Our load analysis process considers all factors that influence a building's thermal performance, including the building envelope characteristics (wall, roof, and window U-values and solar heat gain coefficients), internal heat gains from occupants, lighting, and equipment, ventilation requirements, infiltration rates, and the local climate data for the project location. We use ASHRAE's Transfer Function Method (TFM) and Radiant Time Series (RTS) methods, implemented through software such as Trane TRACE, Carrier HAP, and EnergyPlus, to develop hour-by-hour load profiles that capture the dynamic nature of building thermal loads.

Beyond simple peak load calculations, we perform detailed zone-by-zone analysis to identify areas with unique thermal characteristics, such as perimeter zones with high solar exposure, interior zones with significant equipment heat gains, or spaces with unusual occupancy patterns. This granular approach allows us to design systems that respond effectively to the diverse conditions within a building, improving both comfort and energy efficiency.

For complex projects, we perform energy modeling simulations that predict annual energy consumption under various design scenarios, allowing us to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different HVAC system options, envelope improvements, and energy conservation measures. These models are also used to demonstrate compliance with energy codes such as ASHRAE 90.1 and the IECC, and to support LEED energy credit calculations.

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and occupant well-being. EBS Engineering PC designs ventilation systems in strict accordance with ASHRAE Standard 62.1 (Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality), which establishes minimum outdoor air rates based on occupancy, floor area, and space type. We use the Ventilation Rate Procedure to calculate required outdoor air quantities for each zone and the system-level outdoor air intake, accounting for system ventilation efficiency and zone diversity.

Our ventilation designs incorporate demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) using CO2 sensors in densely occupied spaces such as conference rooms, auditoriums, and dining areas. DCV systems modulate outdoor air intake based on actual occupancy, reducing energy consumption during periods of low occupancy while ensuring adequate ventilation during peak conditions. We also design dedicated exhaust systems for spaces with specific ventilation requirements, including laboratories, medical procedure rooms, and parking garages. For commercial kitchen applications, we design the code-compliant welded steel grease ductwork systems with proper cleanout access doors, fire-rated enclosures, and clearances to combustibles in accordance with NFPA 96 and the International Mechanical Code. The kitchen hoods, exhaust fans, and fire suppression systems (such as Ansul) are typically designed and provided by the equipment manufacturers, while our engineering focuses on the ductwork infrastructure that connects and supports these systems.

Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) is a standard feature of our designs for projects in climates with significant heating or cooling loads. ERV systems transfer heat and moisture between the exhaust air stream and the incoming outdoor air stream, recovering up to 80% of the energy that would otherwise be lost. We select between enthalpy wheels, plate heat exchangers, and heat pipe systems based on the specific requirements of each project, including considerations for cross-contamination, frost prevention, and maintenance access.

For specialized environments such as healthcare facilities, we design ventilation systems that meet the stringent requirements of ASHRAE 170 (Ventilation of Health Care Facilities) and the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI) Guidelines, including specific air change rates, pressure relationships, temperature and humidity ranges, and filtration levels for each room type.

For existing buildings, EBS Engineering PC performs comprehensive mechanical system condition assessments to evaluate the current state of HVAC equipment, identify systems approaching end of life, and develop strategic upgrade plans. Our assessments provide building owners and managers with the information needed to make informed decisions about system replacement timing, capital planning, and energy efficiency improvements.

During a condition assessment, we visually inspect all major mechanical equipment including air handling units, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and terminal units. We document equipment nameplate data, age, apparent condition, and operational status. We evaluate ductwork integrity, insulation condition, and air balance. We review system controls and automation programming to assess whether systems are operating as intended and identify opportunities for control optimization.

We estimate remaining useful life for major equipment components based on age, condition, maintenance history, and industry standards. We identify systems that are operating inefficiently or approaching failure, and we provide recommendations for upgrades that can improve energy performance, reliability, and indoor air quality. For systems nearing replacement, we provide preliminary sizing and technology recommendations to guide capital planning.