Software Suggestions: HVAC and Ductwork Design?

I'm buying a house with electric baseboard heating. I have always had forced air and would like to install a system over the first two years of living there.

I'm the kind of guy that prefers to do his own work. I have downloaded many ACCA manuals and read them (yes - cover to cover). I feel pretty confident in the calculations and such.

What I'm wondering about is design software. I use solidworks and sketchup regularly. I'd like to have something where I can draw my house (or import my current drawings) and inlay ductwork design. Something that is able to model how ductwork would work based on room size and the effects of placement, sizing, etc. on my installation.

I can calculate it all out and feel comfortable based on what I've read, but something visual would be nice and reassuring.

Now, I understand I might be asking for something that has a high price on it. But, honestly, I want to look into it anyway. If anyone on here has some experience doing these designs and has some suggestions for a software package to use - please let me know.


**Also note; I've already done the measuring needed in regards to actual duct placement - ie, I can install a drop ceiling and access all points in the home. I have a good idea of what I'm doing - just want to tie it all together and demo it.

Autocad MEP [autodesk.com] is the first thing that come to mind. There's also EDSL's TAS [edsl.net]

If you're going to do this kind of work yourself make sure you get a permit.

Think about utilizing basement and attic spaces before you put a drop ceiling everywhere. A small/mini duct high velocity system could be another option to consider.

Quote from jkee : Autocad MEP [autodesk.com] is the first thing that come to mind. There's also EDSL's TAS [edsl.net] If you're going to do this kind of work yourself make sure you get a permit. Think about utilizing basement and attic spaces before you put a drop ceiling everywhere. A small/mini duct high velocity system could be another option to consider.

Thanks for the input. Its a split level, so the basement area would get a drop ceiling for access to second floor, but the first floor is easily done with the crawlspace.

Do you want 2D or 3D design? If 2D is OK, you can get Draftsight [3ds.com] for free.

For 3D, I believe Solidworks should have that capability - do you have a license for that already?

Visio?

I recommend http://www.technicalsalesinternat...index.php# over anything else.
I use it daily at to detail complex HVAC systems.

Quote from ellmenohpee : I recommend technicalsalesinternational.com/v2008/index.php# over anything else. I use it daily at to detail complex HVAC systems.

Um that's not a product, just a company that sells AutoDesk's products. I can't help wondering if your account has been hacked.