HVAC load design software plugin or worklfow for external software

[HVAC-Novice]

In the past I used Trace 700 for load calculations. the whole gbXML importing didn't work well due to too much cleanup required in Trace. the in-Revit HVAC load calcs also don't work well to be reliable. At least not to the detail that an actual load software provides.

I had my old Trace 700 license expire with the open to switch to Trace 3D, but didn't like Trace 3D (too buggy, I couldn't even complete their example project). so I'm back to buying a new HVAC load software.

Ideally it would be a good plugin to Revit like elumtools for lighting, which works perfectly and leverages the Revit environment and features. For elumtools I was able to create my own schedules add parameters for my own neat ideas etc. The advantage would be there is no need to recreate the 3D model or doing any forth and back importing and cleanup (over time the design changes etc.). is there meanwhile such a plugin?

I fear there isn't a good plugin (according to google)

Which external software is good to make the process of exporting data from Revit seam- and flawless?

At this point I don't need energy simulation, but that may be a good feature to consider. But I'd be happy with proper load calcs at this point. Since with the demise of Trace 700 I need to buy and learn a new software anyway, this is a good time to get something good.

We are on subscription, so we use the current Revit version if that matters.

[donald.kunath]

Hello @HVAC-Novice

Thank you for your post and welcome to the community!

I touched base with my internal experts and this is what we were able to come up with.

They suggested an Autodesk program with the name Insight.  Below are some links to help give you an idea of what this program is all about.

Learn everything about building performance analysis: Autodesk Insight webinar series

Insight Heating / Cooling Loads Analysis & Reports

If you found my post answered your question, please click on "Accept Solution" to help others with similar questions.

Thank you and I look forward to your thoughts!

[donald.kunath]

Hi @HVAC-Novice

I hope you are doing well and making lots of progress on your project. 

I wanted to check in and see if you had a chance to review the suggestions from my last forum post, or if you have any additional questions for me?

If you found my previous post answered your question, please click on "Accept Solution" to help others with similar topics.

Thank you and I look forward to your thoughts!

[NateBrush]

We still use Trace 700. We are waiting for Trace 3D Plus to develop a bit more before we make the switch.

I looked at the Insight web page but it doesn't communicate (a) how to use it and (b) that it complies with the standards we need. I didn't see any info on what energy modeling paradigm it is using. So I didn't bother trying it if I'm not confident it calculates to the level we need.

[HVAC-Novice]

I finally got around playing a bit with Insight. This seems to be a useful tool for schematic design. It can easily play with a few options and strategies.

However, for more detailed and precise calculations it does not seem to be suitable. I see that as a SD phase tool, but in further detailing of the project a more dedicated software should be used. For example there is very little information and options on different HVAC systems in Insight.