The installation of a ducting system is one of the crucial aspects for the successful functioning of a building’s HVAC system, but industry insiders observe that the installation process is never a smooth one, owing to deviations from the original design.

Explaining some of the causes for deviation from a contractor’s perspective, Sibin James Chacko, Executive Director of EMCC, said: “Usually, ducting is done after the civil work is completed; therefore, it all depends on how the civil work is done. Sometimes, the site condition does not match the diagram, so although everyone tries their best to stay within the diagram perimeter, yet deviations occur, owing to the mismatch of the diagram and the site condition.”

Chacko added that another cause for deviation is when a consultant copy-pastes the diagram from previous projects, instead of visiting the site and getting first-hand observations. Therefore, he believes it is easier and cost-effective to change the ducting path than to demolish a wall.

Speaking from a consultant’s perspective, Dr Ramiz Babus’Haq, Deputy General Manager of Hydro Engineering Consultants, said: “This problem will keep on recurring because of the difference in drawings. Hence, it is important to organise a technical meeting between the consultant, developer and the contractor, so that everyone understands the minute details of the project and carries out the installations smoothly.”

Dr Babus’Haq added that sometimes deviations occur owing to regulatory requirements from civil defence or municipal authorities, which is acceptable. However, he insists that contractors must come back to the drawing board and discuss the problems with the consultants to find an appropriate solution.