Ever walked into a building on a sweltering summer day and instantly felt relief? Or noticed how a packed conference room somehow stays the perfect temperature? Chances are, you didn’t think twice about it, and that’s the point. When a building’s mechanical systems are working well, you barely notice they exist.

But creating that kind of comfort doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of some serious engineering!

The Unsung Systems That Keep Buildings Comfortable

“Mechanical systems are the part of building construction that control indoor temperature and humidity, provide code-required ventilation, exhaust air where it’s not desired, and help maintain proper building pressurization,” explained Jeff Kulhanek, Schemmer’s Manager of Mechanical Engineering. “They’re the systems that keep people comfortable and spaces healthy.”

Designing for Flexibility and Efficiency

Mechanical systems have to perform under wildly different conditions, from the coldest days in January to the hottest afternoons in July, and everything in between. “They have to handle extremes, but also the in-between conditions,” said Kulhanek. “A conference room could be full one hour and empty the next. The system has to adjust seamlessly without over- or under-conditioning.”

That flexibility is where the challenge comes in. Engineers must think through everything. From how to stage compressors, how to balance gas heating, and how to keep energy use in check while maintaining comfort. It’s a puzzle that most building occupants never see.

Balancing Comfort and Energy Efficiency

There’s a common misconception that energy-efficient systems make buildings less comfortable. Kulhanek says that’s not the case anymore. “Comfort and energy efficiency do not have to be a tradeoff,” he said. “Energy-efficient systems are really the norm today. For example, adding ceiling fans in open office spaces allows a higher thermostat setpoint in the summer while still keeping people comfortable.” It’s simple, practical design choices like that that make spaces both efficient and comfortable.

The Importance of Collaboration Across Disciplines

Mechanical systems don’t operate in isolation. They share space (and coordination) with nearly every other discipline involved in design and construction. “Everything we do as the mechanical team has some impact on another discipline,” said Kulhanek. “We work with architects on envelope design and load calculations, with structural engineers to support large rooftop equipment, with electrical engineers on power and lighting coordination, and even with civil engineers for utilities like water, gas, and sanitary lines.” At the end of the day, buildings work best when the teams behind them do too.

Smart Technology and the Future of Building Systems

Today’s buildings are becoming more connected and mechanical design is evolving with them. “Smart control systems with built-in fault detection are becoming the standard,” Kulhanek said. “They can monitor performance and detect issues before they cause failures. For instance, if an economizer never opens, the system flags it for technicians before it impacts comfort or efficiency.”

AI and Predictive Automation

And the future of building systems? It’s getting smarter by the day. “AI and building automation are starting to be combined to predict how a building should operate based on upcoming weather and past behavior,” he said. “It’s still new, but I expect to see more and more of it.”

Small Design Decisions, Big Energy Savings

Mechanical systems account for roughly half of a building’s energy use, which means even small improvements can make a meaningful difference. “Small changes to duct design can reduce fan energy,” said Kulhanek. “Sizing piping systems correctly can reduce pump energy. Energy recovery systems like total enthalpy wheels can pay for themselves in less than five years.”

From a mechanical engineer’s perspective, sustainability isn’t always about the newest technology. It’s about thoughtful decisions that add up to something greater and make a building that’s efficient, comfortable, and built to last.

From keeping us warm in winter, cool in the summer, and for all seasons in between, mechanical systems are the quiet workhorses of our built environment. When designed well, you never notice them. And that’s exactly the way it should be.

SCHEMMER – DESIGN WITH PURPOSE. BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE.

At Schemmer, we believe that great design goes beyond structures; it strengthens communities. As a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services consultant, we deliver innovative solutions that enhance the built environment and improve lives.

Since 1959, we have been shaping the future while honoring our legacy. With eight offices across five states in the Midwest, our expertise reaches coast-to-coast, bringing thoughtful, sustainable, and impactful solutions to every project.

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