Frequently Asked Questions
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What does a mechanical engineering consultant do?
A mechanical engineering consultant designs the systems that make a building habitable and safe: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and fire suppression. We produce the drawings and specifications the contractor builds from, review shop drawings and submittals, and answer questions during construction. On most projects, the architect or owner engages us during design.
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Which systems does Avalon design?
HVAC, plumbing and fire suppression, plus control systems. We work on all three disciplines in-house, so we coordinate the systems before issuing the drawings.
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Do you work on renovations, or only new construction?
Both. Renovation work brings its own constraints: existing shafts and ceiling space, equipment that has to stay running while the work happens, and records that do not always match what is in the building. We survey what is actually there before we design around it -
Where in BC does Avalon work?
We have offices in Victoria, Vancouver and Nanaimo, and we work on projects across British Columbia.
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When should a mechanical engineer join a project?
Earlier is better, and schematic design is usually the right point. Decisions made before the mechanical engineer is involved, such as floor-to-floor heights, shaft locations, and envelope performance, set the limits on what the mechanical systems can achieve. Bringing us in once those are fixed narrows the options and usually costs more.
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Can Avalon help with energy modelling and BC Step Code compliance?
Yes. Energy modelling, commissioning and energy auditing sit under building performance, and that team works alongside the mechanical designers on projects targeting a Step Code level or another energy standard.
