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Forward-looking HLS planning for sustainable buildings

2 minutes read
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October 16, 2023

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Energy concepts, an effective heat supply and appropriately dimensioned sanitary facilities are key planning topics of our time. HLS planning combines all three sub-areas into an overall system in the construction industry and lays the foundation for the most energy and cost-efficient building operation possible.

But which individual aspects need to be taken into account in comprehensive HLS planning in construction? And how can modern CAD and BIM software provide conceptual and practical support in construction? We provide an overview.

The most important facts in brief

  • HLS planning includes heating, ventilation and sanitary technology

  • It lays the foundation for efficient building operation

  • Modern software solutions help with the modeling of complex systems

What is meant by HLS planning in the construction industry?

Even in the most complex construction projects, careful planning is essential to ensure smooth processes and high-quality results in the long term. HLS planning is an integral part of this process.

CAD-Planung in 2D sowie 3D in Trimble Nova. Sie vereint die Gewerke Heizungs-, Lüftungs- und Sanitärtechnik. HLS-Planung im B

It combines the trades of heating, ventilation and sanitary engineering. HLS planning in the construction industry includes the strategic design and implementation of systems that are responsible for regulating the indoor climate, water flow and sanitary facilities.

More than just installation work

It goes far beyond the simple installation of radiators and water pipes. HLS planning requires a detailed analysis of the specific requirements of a building in accordance with today's technological, energy and ecological standards.

Planning heating systems, for example, requires a precise analysis of the spatial conditions in order to ensure even heat distribution and minimize energy consumption. Analytical principles such as a correct heating load calculation are crucial for this.

Ventilation systems must be designed to ensure sufficient air circulation while filtering pollutants and allergens. Sanitary technology, on the other hand, includes the design of water and wastewater systems, which focus on hygiene and environmentally friendly solutions.

What is part of detailed HLS planning?

HLS planning lays the planning foundation for a successful construction project. It covers a wide range of tasks and aspects:

1. Heating systems:

  • Analysis of the building's heating requirements, taking into account factors such as the standard outside temperature

  • Selection of heating sources such as boilers, heat pumps or solar collectors

  • Dimensioning of radiators or underfloor heating systems

2. Ventilation systems:

  • Determining the air exchange requirement for healthy indoor air quality

  • Development of ventilation concepts such as mechanical, natural or hybrid ventilation

  • Integration of filters and air purification systems

3. Sanitary technology:

  • Planning of water and wastewater systems

  • Selection of sanitary facilities such as toilets, washbasins, showers, etc.

  • Integration of drinking water treatment plants

4. Energy efficiency:

  • Calculation of the building's energy requirements and consumption

  • Use of renewable energy sources for heating and water heating

  • Integration of insulation and thermal insulation measures

5. Sustainability:

  • Implementation of environmentally friendly technologies and materials

  • Promotion of resource-efficient solutions

  • Consideration of waste management and recycling

6. Security:

  • Integration of fire protection and smoke extraction systems

  • Planning emergency measures for gas and water outages

  • Ensuring drinking water quality and safety

Why is HLS planning so important?

Problem areas in later building operation are often just symptoms of mistakes that were made in the original design of the building technology - precise HVAC planning avoids them in advance.

Correctly planned HVAC systems have a significant impact on a building's energy consumption. The integration of efficient heating, cooling and ventilation systems can considerably reduce energy requirements - and enable significant cost reductions. At the same time, the use of renewable energies and environmentally friendly materials increases the sustainability of the building.

Software for success

In terms of planning, complex construction projects quickly develop into organizational Herculean tasks - which can only be carried out efficiently with the right support.

Software such as Trimble Nova helps to put the HLS concept on a transparent foundation that can be used by all parties involved. As a complete solution for building services engineering, it makes it possible to handle all aspects of HLS planning with precision. With its own CAD core, integrated calculations, 3D modeling capability, collision checks and accurate manufacturer data, it offers a smooth BIM workflow.

Trimble Connect is the ideal addition for optimized networking in larger teams. The tool connects all project participants with the necessary data in a shared data environment at the right time - making HLS planning the basis for a successful construction project.

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