Top 7 Common MEP Design Mistakes and How to Avoid them?

Top 7 Common MEP Design Mistakes and How to Avoid them?

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    Introduction

    Copy & paste is a design error!

    Copying and pasting seems like a time-saving approach to MEP design, but it always leads to major setbacks and inefficiencies. 

    There was a heated discussion on Reddit (an ecosystem of voices and ideas) about how miscalculation of electrical loads leads to severe power outages in the new building. 

    The reason behind this mishap was that the electrical systems were not designed to hold the equipment load, further forcing the entire team to upgrade the wiring; this clearly shows the importance of accurate designing! 

    This means that when it comes to MEP engineering design as a whole, even the smallest mistake can cause a system failure. But here’s the good news: These mistakes are avoidable.

    Let us take a closer look at the top seven common MEP design mistakes professionals face in the AEC industry and share some straightforward tips for avoiding them.

    Top 7 Most Common MEP Design Mistakes 

    “The importance of using MEP design is just beyond the construction phase.”

    Even an experienced professional can make common mistakes in MEP design that can lead to costly issues down the line. 

    So, let us see the top five most common MEP design mistakes.

    Mistake #1 – Avoiding Coordination Among Disciplines

    The first and most common mistake in MEP design is the need for coordination between mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. 

    The problem begins when these three disciplines are not well coordinated, which results in clashes of pipes running through ductwork, electrical wiring conflicting with plumbing, etc.

    Dodge Construction Network reports that 33% of contractors find that coordination issues on site are the root cause of their construction quality challenges. 

    Mistake #2 – Miscalculating Load Requirements

    This mistake may sound too common to be made, but it is not. When it happens, it leads to underperforming systems or power outages due to major mistakes in improperly calculating electrical or HVAC loads. 

    A thread on Reddit even proves that a miscalculated electrical load can lead to severe power outages in a new office building!

    Mistake #3 – Overlooking Code Compliance and Standards

    If local building codes and standards are not followed correctly, they can definitely lead to delays and denials of building permits, which, under the same concern, will disturb and heavily impact project timelines and budgets. 

    Non-compliance can also result in safety issues, resulting in costly lawsuits or redesigns.

    Mistake #4 – Improper HVAC System Sizing

    Oversizing or undersizing equipment can lead to many problems and unnecessary costs.

    If the equipment is oversized, it will cost you more in initial expenses, increased energy consumption, and decreased comfort control.

    For example, oversized HVAC systems can result in issues like inconsistent temperature control, drafts, and high humidity levels in the space due to frequent equipment cycling.

    At the same time, if undersized HVAC equipment fails to meet the building’s needs under load, it will lead to poor performance and discomfort.

    Mistake #5 – Inaccurate Documentation & Detailing

    Quality drawings and specifications serve as the only reference point for all parties involved in the project, but a mistake can lead to huge site errors and installation delays. 

    Poor documentation affects the entire building lifecycle, from construction to maintenance.

    Mistake #6 – Compromising Quality Control & Testing

    The absence of proper quality control measures can lead to heavy installations, impaired system performance, and huge maintenance demands.

    Establishing an efficient quality control program that reaches the entire design and construction process is very much needed. 

    This states that qualified professionals conduct regular inspections of MEP installations, strictly adhering to industry standards and codes and thoroughly evaluating equipment performance. 

    Additionally, it emphasises the adherence to detailed testing and commissioning procedures to guarantee the functionality of all MEP systems before project delivery.

    Mistake #7 –  Improper Space Allocation of MEP Systems

    Another significant mistake that can lead to major loopholes in the building is the poor allocation of sufficient space for MEP systems during design. 

    A common situation is HVAC systems being squeezed into tight spaces, leading to airflow inefficiencies and future maintenance problems.

    The National Institute of Building Sciences estimates that poorly designed spaces increase a ⅓ of operational costs.

    How MEP Mistakes Lead to Costly Delays

    Mistakes in MEP design are the major contributors to frustrating and expensive project delays. Whether a minor oversight or a major error, these mistakes can take up construction timelines!

    When MEP systems clash with architectural/structural systems, it will lead to rework from scratch, project costs, and significant delays.

    When not done correctly, HVAC or electrical load calculations will take the system to massive failure & delays.

    According to ASHRAE, improper HVAC sizing can lead to energy waste and equipment failures, increasing operational costs & delays.

    Non-compliance with building codes first will lead to project approval delays and then ask for costly redesigns.

    Lack of coordination between different trades leads to late discoveries of mistakes.

    How Can BIM Help You Overcome These Top 7 MEP Design Mistakes?

    1) BIM Will Improve Coordination & Reduce Clashes

    BIM will improve collaboration through a shared digital model, integrating MEP designs brilliantly. 

    2) BIM Will Update Codes and Standards

    Choosing the right MEP design firm involves determining its ability to offer high-quality standards across all projects using BIM consistently.

    BIM software updates the latest codes and regulations, allowing members involved to check compliance automatically.

    3) BIM Provides Accurate Load Calculations

    In this case, BIM will provide accurate load calculations based on detailed building parameters.

    Further, it uses dynamic modeling to assess the impact of environmental factors, building orientation, etc.

    4)  BIM Offers Highly Detailed Documentation

    BIM makes it very easy to get the construction documents from the model.

    These documents include specifications, installation details, etc.

    5)  BIM Corrects Improper HVAC System Sizing

    BIM offers detailed modeling capabilities that allow for precise analyses of HVAC systems based on the building’s actual architectural features and overall size dimensions.

    6) BIM Will Improve Quality Control and Testing

    In this case, BIM will provide an automated rule-based check to validate the design against predefined standards and regulations, ensuring that all aspects of the MEP design, including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, adhere to required quality standards.

    7) BIM Addresses Improper Space Allocation

    BIM offers tools to manage and coordinate MEP systems’ spatial requirements effectively. 

    Visualizing the same makes it easy to understand how the systems interact within the building’s architectural constraints.

    Conclusion

    In wrapping up the discussion on MEP design mistakes and how to avoid them, it seems clear that awareness is your first line of defence. Even minor errors can lead to costly delays and headaches in less than no time. 

    But the good news is that it becomes easy to overcome the mistakes with the right strategies.

    Remember, every project is an opportunity to learn and improve. Edifice Expert is here to provide expert guidance to help you overcome these challenges and deliver error-free projects. 

    Looking for MEP / BIM Services?

    Transform your projects with Edifice Expert's innovative MEP & BIM Services - Let's reach new heights of excellence together!

      About the Author
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      Edifice Expert

      Edifice Expert Company excels in MEP design and BIM services, delivering cutting-edge solutions for the construction industry. Our team of skilled engineers, architects, and BIM specialists provide innovative and efficient designs for optimal performance and sustainability in building projects. With a commitment to excellence and the latest technology, Edifice Expert helps designers, surveyors, and contractors stay competitive and achieve outstanding results in the AEC industry.

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