When it comes to HVAC systems design, specialized software solutions help streamline and automate the workflow of engineers. These software solutions are essential for designing both simple and intricate HVAC systems.

HVAC industry engineers consider various aspects, from mechanical design to load calculations and duct design to create a complete, efficient unit. Mechanical engineers focus attention on designing plastic and metal components for the HVAC system. Systems engineers tackle load calculations and duct design for optimal HVAC systems site installation.

Electronic engineers focus on the intricate design of printed circuit boards that control the day-to-day operations of HVAC equipment. Electronic design itself is a huge task. Many HVAC businesses have a dedicated electronic division to streamline, design, and develop these circuit boards.

This article explores some of the most widely used HVAC software in the industry, including Creo Elements, Autocad, and Wrightsoft HVAC software, used in modern HVAC industry design. 

1. Creo Elements/Pro Software From PTC

Creo Elements/Pro design software was previously known as Pro/Engineer. This HVAC industry software solution is suitable for high-end and complex 3D product design. The integrated parametric design enhances workflow and functionality. Creo Elements/Pro is a software solution enabling you to develop a better product in a shorter timeframe.

HVAC software solutions are used to design a complete air conditioning system from scratch. For instance, when designing a window or room air conditioner, you start with the exterior design and then detail the dimensions of each component. The software allows for easy creation of 3D assembly diagrams. Once the air conditioning design is complete, you can export the files to mold design software to finalize the mold before tooling.

Download a free 30 day trial of this software solution from the PTC Creo website.

2. AUTOCAD Software From AUTODESK

If pricing is a concern, a less costly 2D/3D software solution with less features is AutoCAD from Autodesk. For 2D design purposes, AutoCAD LT is a good choice. It can be used to create 2D drawings such as screws, sticker designs, logos, and parts. These drawings can be saved in DWG format for easy interfacing with other software solutions.

For 3D design, Autodesk Inventor software is an ideal choice for HVAC system design. It allows for visualization and simulation of your products before they are built, helping to reduce errors before creating actual HVAC industry prototypes.

3. Wrightsoft HVAC Softwares

Wrightsoft offers a range of user-friendly HVAC software options. These tools perform load calculations for both residential and commercial HVAC systems. Additionally, its a HVAC software solution that can calculate duct parameters such as CFM, load, and pressure drop.

One of the features of Wrightsoft HVAC software is ease of use. It can also import plan designs from other AutoCAD software for further design and simulation. This software solution can generate a bill of materials and simulate the need for supplementary heating.

Like most industry practices today, you can download a trial version of this software solution before deciding whether to purchase it.

4. Printed Circuit Board Design

As an electronic engineer specializing in circuit design, you have many schematic entry and printed circuit board (PCB) design software solutions. EAGLE from CadSoftUSA offers essential tools for both schematic and PCB design. HVAC companies may find EAGLE to be a practical option.

You can download the freeware version to try it out.


HVAC businesses rely on specialized HVAC software to design dependable and safe HVAC equipment and provide excellent HVAC service.

These software solutions streamline the design process, reduce errors, and make sure HVAC systems meet customer standards. Adding these advanced tools to their workflows, HVAC businesses improve productivity in real-time, profitability and deliver higher-quality products.

HVAC professionals should also consider cloud-based software to help with project management, invoicing, dispatching, and inventory management. HVAC service software is available to assist with customer portals, pricing options, job scheduling, and payment processing. Many software solutions offer mobile apps as well. It’s worth investing in a good CRM for managing customer information and accounting software such as Quickbook. Be sure the HVAC software you select offers efficient customer support with a dedicated support team.

Investing in the right HVAC software is a strategic decision. Business owners should consider the pricing of software solutions along with the expected increase in business profitability. I recommend that HVAC contractors integrate HVAC management software sooner rather than later. It can cause excessive data entry work if you decide to wait.

If you’re ready to grow your small business, begin by researching the best HVAC software. Select an HVAC software solution to significantly improve referral business, your customers experience, and impact the success of your business.

Article Update Log
6/6/24
Reviewed for accuracy, cost data, industry best practices, and expert advice by Laurie Engle.
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Alora Bopray

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Alora Bopray is a digital content producer for the home warranty, HVAC, and plumbing categories at Today's Homeowner. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of St. Scholastica and her master's degree from the University of Denver. Before becoming a writer for Today's Homeowner, Alora wrote as a freelance writer for dozens of home improvement clients and informed homeowners about the solar industry as a writer for EcoWatch. When she's not writing, Alora can be found planning her next DIY home improvement project or plotting her next novel.

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Laurie Engle

Expert Writer & Reviewer

Laurie Engle is a freelance writer who provides insights to homeowners on topics such as the home warranty industry, relocation issues, and real estate trends. As a licensed Realtor since 2001 Laurie has acquired extensive expertise in dealing with home warranty companies and navigating the intricacies of the real estate market. In addition to her commitment to helping clients with their home buying and selling needs, she maintains a sharp awareness of market dynamics, including property values, interest rates, and local regulations.

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