There’s now a way for people working in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) roles to create ductwork fabrication drawings faster than they previously could. It involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software. CAD layout design tools can increase efficiency and reduce errors, resulting in a more appropriate HVAC layout plan for a specific property or client.

1. Explore the Premade HVAC Layout Plan Settings

Many CAD programs for ductwork fabrication drawings help people save time with premade options. For example, a person could choose straight ductwork or an HVAC layout plan with 45- or 90-degree elbows and select those options as a template.

The fewer things people must do manually in the program, the faster they can work without limitations. Premade solutions won’t suit every project, but when technicians know how to avail of those features, it’ll be easier for them to use them confidently when situations warrant it.

2. Learn About the Automated Options

It’s increasingly common for CAD tools to have automated features that save users’ time and minimize repetitive tasks. For example, some let people create libraries of standardized symbols to use in several ductwork fabrication drawings. In other cases, they can change several linked documents simultaneously, saving the overall editing time and increasing consistency.

However, people will only benefit from automation’s time-saving effects if they know how to use the features and determine the best use cases. Setting aside dedicated time for learning the program and automating specific tasks will cause better user experiences in the long run.

3. Use Ductwork Fabrication Drawings During Customer Discussions

Although it costs an average of $8,000 to replace ductwork, the actual costs can vary based on several factors. Difficulty accessing the existing ductwork or a project in a large home can elevate the overall expenses.

Fortunately, CAD layout design tools make it easier for HVAC professionals to explain what’s added to the costs and why. Some may create ways for customers to log into CAD tools to view — but not edit — plans. Those parties remain involved and have input during all project phases.

4. Add Equipment to the CAD Layout Design When Possible

Those overseeing the ductwork design must create rough sketches of applicable equipment to ensure it will fit in the intended spaces. However, some CAD programs offer brand-specific product families for users to download. That makes adding anything from light switches to appliances to the drawings in the correct places easy.

That’s one of the simplest ways to avoid reworking things due to them not fitting as expected. Suppose the chosen CAD program does not allow downloading and adding equipment. In that case, the most accurate option is to get manufacturer dimensions and refer to them when making the ductwork fabrication drawings.

5. Explore Collaboration Options Within the CAD Program

Ease of access is one of the main benefits of cloud-based software. Authorized users can log into it from wherever they are, as long as their internet connection works. Most CAD programs work in the cloud, opening appealing opportunities for better collaboration among colleagues.

For example, many CAD tools allow users to markup and add comments to drawings, giving all viewers the clarification they need to work without confusion. Cloud-based workflows are also common, and people can typically see who made specific changes to a drawing. Suppose the client or anyone else has a question about the reasoning behind a particular alteration. In that case, it’s easy for them to identify the responsible party and discuss it with them.

6. Get to Know the Design Functionality

All software options for ductwork fabrication drawings differ slightly in how people work with them. Users will typically find there’s more than one way to do something. For example, they may be able to use either a keyboard shortcut or a menu option to undo a previous command.

Many design interfaces also contain buttons with simple graphics to show functionality. However, if someone forgets what a specific one does, they can usually hover over it with the cursor to see a text-based label. Users will generally become more familiar with the functionality as their overall time with the CAD program increases. When they first start, YouTube tutorials offered by the software provider or a third party could boost their confidence and understanding.

7. See How the Program Uses Layers

Many CAD design programs help people differentiate between information in the HVAC layout plan by showing the details in dedicated layers. They can use color coding or particular line weights to show the specifics associated with fresh air, air conditioning or exhaust systems.

Users should also share this knowledge with their colleagues. Then, everyone can quickly see the layer-based details and understand how the information affects the project.

8. Look for No-Experience-Needed Tools

The lack of previous experience in computer-aided design could become a major barrier for some would-be users. Developers can specialize in creating CAD layout design products that expand how a base program functions or cater to people with no previous computer-aided design experience. One such offering helps users make 3D ductwork designs without previous knowledge. It has drag-and-drop functionality to help individuals quickly develop an HVAC layout plan.

People may find it unnecessarily limiting to stick to CAD products that let users make ductwork fabrication drawings without experience. However, these options are good starting points because there’s no barrier to entry. HVAC company leaders may want to set a mid- to long-term goal of having workers progressively develop their CAD skills as part of their professional development efforts.

Pursue Continuous Improvement

All efforts to use CAD layout design tools will be most worthwhile when people think carefully about how those products will help them overcome existing challenges. They must go beyond simply using those options because they’re readily available.

Setting goals to save time, increase productivity or make it easier for team members to collaborate will help people make the most of any chosen CAD tools. Hearing about how professionals at other companies get great results could inspire them to use these platforms differently to support their workflows.

Emily Newton is an industrial and tech journalist. As Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized, she regularly covers trends in the industrial sector.