Saudi Arabia is one of the pioneers in the industry of providing top-notch construction methods and techniques. Saudi Arabia holds significant importance in the region if we talk about adopting green engineering rules and regulations that are in high demand these days. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is of great importance in the development of a successful building lifecycle. HVAC systems are used in commercial and residential apartment buildings. Saudi Arabia is a pioneer in the development of infrastructure and mega projects, so it is very crucial to incorporate all relevant codes and practices by Saudi Arabia’s rules and regulations.
In today’s fast-paced technological world, it’s critical to stay ahead of the game. With the growth of smart technology, the world is moving towards a more automated future. As such, HVAC systems are now integrating smart technology to enhance their functionality and efficiency. This change means that HVAC engineers and contractors must familiarize themselves with the fast-changing technological landscape to provide their clients with the best possible systems. The significance of smart technology in HVAC systems, the assistance of integrating smart devices into MEP systems, and the upcoming future of smart technology in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-conditioning) systems.
Construction projects are multifaceted, exhausting, and often time-consuming. All of this is due to multiple necessities of small and large scale that comprise the project. With many requirements relating to non-functional aspects of the project, some requirements do require considerable planning and execution since they reflect outputs in many ways. One such prime construction requirement is in the form of HVAC which is a branch of an MEP system. MEP systems are widely incorporated in commercial and private buildings across the globe, dominantly in Saudi Arabia. A major reason is the emphasis on construction management in the KSA.
Saudi Arabia’s business Infrastructure hugely relies on good and reasonable HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air conditioning) systems to cater to the needs of their businesses which eventually help in leveraging the overall economy of the country. To have optimized performance of HVAC systems, maintaining HVAC systems is required at a greater level.
Cost-Effective Methodology
The importance of energy use in buildings is well understood by many designers and developers all over the world and therefore has received considerable attention. Similarly, the importance of indoor environmental quality is recognized and addressed as well. In Saudi Arabia, designers of HVAC systems usually emphasize peak load satisfaction and budget constraints over energy efficiency and sustainable indoor environmental quality. It is, therefore, important to assess the thermal and energy performance of existing commercial buildings to identify energy-saving opportunities and improve indoor conditions. Attempts to design energy-efficient buildings, however, are often hindered by the lack of appreciation of the way buildings are affected by the climate and the various environmental and design factors. The collaboration between engineers, managers, and professionals along with the industry contractors and competitors in HVAC is very important for a constant commitment towards excellence. An effort toward the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and methods of green engineering standards is necessary. Saudi Arabia enjoys a good position in the name of investments.
Design Considerations
Thermal Lining
The climate of Saudi Arabia is hot, and it requires regular use of HVAC-R in buildings. The use of thermal insulation in buildings helps preserve the temperature inside rooms by minimizing the dissipation of heat through building walls. Dissipation leads to reduced use of HVACs, which, in turn, saves electricity. Only 26.5% of buildings in the country were thermally insulated back in the early years. With the increased demand for HVAC systems country-wide, Saudi Arabia is all set to meet its future demands by rigorous implementation of the latest design standards.
EER (Energy Efficiency Rating)
Most of the electrical appliances in Saudi Arabia are labeled with Energy Efficiency Rating. Saudi Standards Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) modified Standard No. 2663/2012 “Energy Labelling and Minimum Energy Performance Requirements for Air-Conditioners”, by adding national modifications that have been approved by the SASO Council Board. Energy Efficiency Ratings are used to label each air conditioner unit manufactured or sold in Saudi Arabia. It is mandatory for companies operating in Saudi Arabia to have an Energy Efficiency Label for split air conditioners and window air conditioners.
Water-Saving Drains Designs
Plumbing designs and installation are also one of the most important parts of energy conservation standards. Using greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting are feasible options to cater to the needs of water. With the help of the latest technology and standards, plumbing has become as modern as it was years ago. Saudi Arabia being a desert country knows well enough about water conservation.
Electrical Preservation Procedures
Using energy-efficient lighting during design such as LED lights and energy savers can be used to achieve energy-efficient buildings. Employing low electric requirement solutions for different electrical appliances used in buildings.
Insulation Panels
High-quality insulation panels called Sandwich panels can be utilized in the interior walls of buildings. This can help minimize the loss of pure quality air which is responsible for the breathing of humans. By usage of such panels can also be beneficial in safeguarding the unwanted air entraining ways that can be possible in existing buildings.
Durability
The proper installation of the HVAC system is crucial to ensure the longevity of installed systems. Professionals with in-depth knowledge of HVAC insights are responsible for ensuring the maintenance of HVAC systems. Professional HVAC contractors like Silver Foundation are not only professional installers and designers but also professional maintainers.
Adoption of Intelligent Technologies and IoT Integration
The adoption of smart HVAC solutions, enabled by Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, will continue to gain attraction in Saudi Arabia. Smart thermostats, energy management systems, and automated controls offer enhanced comfort, energy savings, and remote monitoring capabilities.
BIM (Building Information Modelling)
This is arguably one of the best approaches towards efficient green engineering solutions. BIM has a wide scope of services to offer with a dedicated window for the documentation of drawings and everything official. HVAC systems are complex and must be well-designed and installed on-site. BIM has industry-leading options for visualizing the air flow ducts, ventilation ducts, heating mechanisms, and air conditioning systems. Due to the immense complication of these interconnected systems, BIM has an amazing workflow in-house station available to document every tiny detail in the model. Real-life models and visuals are available in this.
BIM has a huge role in streamlining energy-efficient solutions and trends in their design. BIM has a dedicated features pack for multiple purposes. BIM has made it very easy to implement complex solutions that are ultimately going to benefit consulting companies as well as HVAC engineers. The benefits of Building Information Modeling are not limited to design, conflict resolution, and error reduction. The last, and perhaps most important benefit of BIM is to provide long-term savings by ensuring a quality project. BIM brings powerful capabilities to HVAC contractors. By leveraging BIM, duct fabricators and mechanical contractors can experience significant improvements in schedules and costs, as well as greater system efficiency. BIM can help with higher-quality fabrication, lower errors, and lower conflicts across the board. The benefits of Building Information Modeling led to a competitive advantage at every level.
Conclusion
It can be hard to find a professional HVAC contractor but thanks to Silver Foundation, there is no hassle anymore in looking out for the best options the collaboration between engineers, managers, and professionals along with the industry contractors and competitors in HVAC like Silver Foundation, is very important for a constant assurance towards excellence. An effort toward the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and methods of green engineering standards is necessary. Saudi Arabia enjoys a noble position in the name of investments.