Quick Overview
- 1#1: Autodesk Revit - Comprehensive BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, design, and coordination of commercial HVAC systems.
- 2#2: Carrier HAP - Hourly Analysis Program for accurate HVAC load calculations, energy analysis, and system sizing in commercial buildings.
- 3#3: TRACE 3D Plus - Advanced 3D building energy modeling tool for simulating and optimizing commercial HVAC performance.
- 4#4: ServiceTitan - All-in-one field service platform for managing commercial HVAC operations, dispatching, invoicing, and customer service.
- 5#5: MagiCAD - Specialized MEP design software for Revit and AutoCAD focused on HVAC sizing, ductwork, and piping.
- 6#6: Right-Suite Universal - Integrated HVAC design suite with load calculations, duct sizing, equipment selection, and estimating.
- 7#7: IES Virtual Environment - Integrated simulation software for whole-building analysis, HVAC design, and energy performance optimization.
- 8#8: CoolCalc - Cloud-based, ACCA-approved HVAC load calculation tool for fast commercial system sizing.
- 9#9: Elite Software RHVAC - ACCA-certified load calculation software supporting commercial HVAC heat gain/loss analysis.
- 10#10: EnergyPlus - Open-source engine for detailed whole-building energy simulation including advanced HVAC modeling.
Tools were ranked by blending robust feature sets (including accuracy in energy analysis and MEP coordination), industry-proven quality, user-friendly design, and long-term value, ensuring they deliver comprehensive utility for commercial HVAC workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key commercial HVAC software tools, such as Autodesk Revit, Carrier HAP, TRACE 3D Plus, ServiceTitan, MagiCAD, and more, to highlight their distinct features and ideal uses for design, service, or project management needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Autodesk Revit Comprehensive BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, design, and coordination of commercial HVAC systems. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Carrier HAP Hourly Analysis Program for accurate HVAC load calculations, energy analysis, and system sizing in commercial buildings. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | TRACE 3D Plus Advanced 3D building energy modeling tool for simulating and optimizing commercial HVAC performance. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | ServiceTitan All-in-one field service platform for managing commercial HVAC operations, dispatching, invoicing, and customer service. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | MagiCAD Specialized MEP design software for Revit and AutoCAD focused on HVAC sizing, ductwork, and piping. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Right-Suite Universal Integrated HVAC design suite with load calculations, duct sizing, equipment selection, and estimating. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | IES Virtual Environment Integrated simulation software for whole-building analysis, HVAC design, and energy performance optimization. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | CoolCalc Cloud-based, ACCA-approved HVAC load calculation tool for fast commercial system sizing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Elite Software RHVAC ACCA-certified load calculation software supporting commercial HVAC heat gain/loss analysis. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | EnergyPlus Open-source engine for detailed whole-building energy simulation including advanced HVAC modeling. | other | 8.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 4.8/10 | 9.9/10 |
Comprehensive BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, design, and coordination of commercial HVAC systems.
Hourly Analysis Program for accurate HVAC load calculations, energy analysis, and system sizing in commercial buildings.
Advanced 3D building energy modeling tool for simulating and optimizing commercial HVAC performance.
All-in-one field service platform for managing commercial HVAC operations, dispatching, invoicing, and customer service.
Specialized MEP design software for Revit and AutoCAD focused on HVAC sizing, ductwork, and piping.
Integrated HVAC design suite with load calculations, duct sizing, equipment selection, and estimating.
Integrated simulation software for whole-building analysis, HVAC design, and energy performance optimization.
Cloud-based, ACCA-approved HVAC load calculation tool for fast commercial system sizing.
ACCA-certified load calculation software supporting commercial HVAC heat gain/loss analysis.
Open-source engine for detailed whole-building energy simulation including advanced HVAC modeling.
Autodesk Revit
enterpriseComprehensive BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, design, and coordination of commercial HVAC systems.
Intelligent MEP connectivity and routing automation that dynamically adjusts HVAC systems for optimal design efficiency
Autodesk Revit is a premier Building Information Modeling (BIM) software renowned for its MEP capabilities, enabling detailed 3D modeling of commercial HVAC systems including ductwork, piping, equipment, and controls. It facilitates seamless coordination with architectural and structural disciplines, clash detection, and automated fabrication outputs. Revit integrates with analysis tools for load calculations, energy simulations, and CFD, making it indispensable for complex commercial projects.
Pros
- Industry-leading BIM integration for HVAC with parametric modeling and automatic sizing
- Superior clash detection and multi-discipline coordination
- Extensive fabrication and analysis tool integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High subscription costs and hardware demands
- Occasional performance issues with very large models
Best For
Large commercial HVAC engineering firms and MEP consultants needing comprehensive BIM workflows for multi-story buildings.
Pricing
Annual subscription from $2,885 USD per user; included in AEC Collection (~$3,575/year) for additional tools.
Carrier HAP
specializedHourly Analysis Program for accurate HVAC load calculations, energy analysis, and system sizing in commercial buildings.
8760-hour whole-building energy analysis with detailed parametric simulations
Carrier HAP (Hourly Analysis Program) is an industry-standard software for commercial HVAC design, offering precise hourly cooling and heating load calculations, annual energy analysis, and system sizing for buildings. It supports detailed space-by-space modeling, integrates with ASHRAE standards, and allows equipment selection from Carrier's extensive catalog. HAP enables engineers to generate comprehensive reports for compliance and optimization in complex commercial projects.
Pros
- Highly accurate 8760-hour energy simulations and load calculations
- Seamless integration with Carrier equipment performance data
- Robust reporting tools compliant with ASHRAE and IECC standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Windows-only, no cloud or mobile support
- High upfront licensing costs
Best For
Experienced HVAC engineers and consulting firms designing large-scale commercial buildings requiring precise energy modeling.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$3,500 per user, plus ~$800 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
TRACE 3D Plus
specializedAdvanced 3D building energy modeling tool for simulating and optimizing commercial HVAC performance.
Proprietary 3D modeler with automated room-by-room heat balance calculations for superior HVAC sizing accuracy
TRACE 3D Plus, developed by Trane Technologies, is a leading whole-building energy simulation software tailored for commercial HVAC system design, sizing, and optimization. It enables engineers to model complex building geometries, perform detailed load calculations, and simulate energy performance under various conditions to meet standards like ASHRAE 90.1 and Title 24. The tool excels in integrating Trane's proprietary equipment data for accurate system-level analysis and life-cycle cost evaluations.
Pros
- Highly accurate HVAC load calculations and energy simulations with ASHRAE-compliant methods
- Extensive Trane equipment library for precise performance modeling
- Advanced 3D geometry tools and wizards for efficient model creation
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive options
- High cost may deter small firms or solo practitioners
- Limited native support for renewable energy systems like PV compared to competitors
Best For
Professional HVAC engineers and large consulting firms handling complex commercial building projects requiring detailed energy modeling and equipment optimization.
Pricing
Annual subscription or perpetual license starting at ~$4,000-$6,000 per user, with maintenance fees and volume discounts available upon request.
ServiceTitan
enterpriseAll-in-one field service platform for managing commercial HVAC operations, dispatching, invoicing, and customer service.
Revenue Per Technician (RPT) tracking with real-time dashboards for optimizing commercial profitability
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive cloud-based field service management platform tailored for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contractors, offering end-to-end tools for scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and customer relationship management. For commercial HVAC operations, it supports complex job management, service agreements, multi-location dispatching, and inventory tracking across large teams. Its mobile app empowers technicians with real-time updates, GPS routing, and flat-rate pricing, while robust reporting provides insights into revenue per technician and profit margins.
Pros
- All-in-one platform with advanced dispatching, CRM, and analytics tailored for commercial-scale HVAC operations
- Powerful mobile app for technicians with GPS integration and real-time job updates
- Detailed reporting on KPIs like revenue per tech and service agreement performance
Cons
- High pricing can be prohibitive for smaller commercial HVAC firms
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation process
- Overly complex interface for users needing simple workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial HVAC contractors with 10+ technicians requiring scalable, data-driven field service management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $265+ per technician/month plus onboarding fees starting at $10,000+.
MagiCAD
specializedSpecialized MEP design software for Revit and AutoCAD focused on HVAC sizing, ductwork, and piping.
Vast, real-time updated library of over 1 million certified HVAC products from 1,000+ manufacturers
MagiCAD is a powerful MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) software suite designed for integration with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD, focusing on detailed HVAC system design for commercial buildings. It provides advanced calculation modules for duct and pipe sizing, pressure loss analysis, and energy simulations, along with extensive manufacturer-approved product libraries. The software supports BIM workflows, clash detection, and compliance with international standards, making it suitable for complex commercial projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive HVAC calculation tools with real-time sizing and optimization
- Extensive, manufacturer-verified product libraries for accurate modeling
- Seamless BIM integration with Revit and AutoCAD for collaborative workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to advanced functionality
- Pricing is module-based and can become expensive for full suites
- Stronger focus on European standards may require customization elsewhere
Best For
MEP engineering firms handling large-scale commercial HVAC projects that need precise calculations and BIM integration.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically €2,000–€6,000 per user/year depending on modules and licenses; custom quotes required.
Right-Suite Universal
specializedIntegrated HVAC design suite with load calculations, duct sizing, equipment selection, and estimating.
Seamless 2D/3D plan takeoff integrated directly with automated load and duct design calculations
Right-Suite Universal from Wrightsoft is a comprehensive HVAC software suite designed for load calculations, duct sizing, equipment selection, and proposal generation, with strong support for light commercial projects using ACCA Manual J, S, D standards and ASHRAE methods. It integrates 2D/3D drawing tools with automated calculations to streamline the design process from site plans to final bids. While versatile for residential work, its commercial capabilities shine in small to medium-sized buildings but may require supplements for complex large-scale projects.
Pros
- Integrated drawing, calculation, and estimating workflow saves time
- Accurate Manual J commercial load calcs with ASHRAE compliance
- Extensive library of equipment and strong reporting tools
Cons
- Limited scalability for very large or multi-zone commercial complexes
- Steep initial learning curve despite intuitive interface
- High subscription cost for full suite access
Best For
HVAC contractors handling light to medium commercial projects who need an all-in-one design and bidding tool.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at ~$1,995 for full suite; modular pricing available from $595/year.
IES Virtual Environment
enterpriseIntegrated simulation software for whole-building analysis, HVAC design, and energy performance optimization.
ApacheHVAC module for detailed dynamic simulation of HVAC systems, controls, and interactions with building fabric
IES Virtual Environment (IESVE) is a powerful building performance simulation suite tailored for commercial building design, focusing on dynamic thermal modeling, HVAC system sizing, energy analysis, and airflow simulations via CFD. It integrates multiple modules for whole-building performance assessment, including daylighting, acoustics, and renewables, enabling engineers to optimize HVAC designs for efficiency and compliance. Widely used for BREEAM, LEED, and code-compliant projects, it supports BIM workflows with IFC and gbXML interoperability.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in dynamic HVAC load calculations and plant performance simulation
- Comprehensive integration of thermal, CFD, and energy modules in one platform
- Robust BIM compatibility and regulatory compliance tools for commercial projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High computational demands necessitating powerful hardware
- Premium pricing that may deter smaller firms
Best For
Experienced MEP engineers and energy consultants handling complex commercial HVAC designs for large-scale buildings.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around £6,000-£15,000 ($8,000-$20,000 USD) depending on modules; perpetual licenses with maintenance also available.
CoolCalc
specializedCloud-based, ACCA-approved HVAC load calculation tool for fast commercial system sizing.
Seamless 3D plan import and takeoff for precise, visual heat load assessments
CoolCalc is a cloud-based HVAC software specializing in accurate load calculations compliant with ACCA Manual J, D, S, and N standards, suitable for residential and light commercial projects. It enables HVAC professionals to perform precise equipment sizing through an intuitive interface with 3D takeoff tools and plan imports. While strong in load calcs, it lacks comprehensive full-building energy modeling or advanced duct design for heavy commercial applications.
Pros
- ASHRAE and ACCA-compliant calculations for reliable results
- Cloud-based access with mobile compatibility for on-site use
- Efficient 3D takeoff and plan viewer integration
Cons
- Limited scope for complex commercial HVAC design beyond loads
- Subscription costs accumulate without broad feature depth
- Steeper learning for non-residential workflows
Best For
HVAC contractors and engineers focused on light commercial load calculations needing quick, accurate sizing without full design suites.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month for Manual J residential/light commercial; $99/month for full suite; annual discounts and enterprise options available.
Elite Software RHVAC
specializedACCA-certified load calculation software supporting commercial HVAC heat gain/loss analysis.
Comprehensive zone-by-zone heat load calculations with automatic duct design in a single workflow
Elite Software RHVAC is a desktop-based HVAC design tool focused on heat gain/loss calculations, duct sizing, and equipment selection using ASHRAE-compliant methods. Primarily designed for residential structures, it offers zone-by-zone analysis and generates detailed reports for design documentation. While it can handle basic low-rise commercial projects, it lacks advanced features for large-scale commercial HVAC systems like hourly simulations or complex zoning.
Pros
- Accurate ASHRAE-based load calculations
- Integrated duct sizing and equipment selection
- Perpetual license with no subscriptions
Cons
- Dated Windows-only interface
- Limited scalability for large commercial buildings
- No cloud access or mobile support
Best For
Small HVAC firms or engineers handling residential and light commercial load calculations who prefer one-time purchase desktop software.
Pricing
Perpetual license around $995; network versions higher.
EnergyPlus
otherOpen-source engine for detailed whole-building energy simulation including advanced HVAC modeling.
Advanced transient heat transfer and modular HVAC component library for unmatched simulation fidelity
EnergyPlus is an open-source whole-building energy simulation engine developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, specializing in detailed modeling of heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and envelope systems. It excels in simulating complex HVAC systems for commercial buildings, providing hour-by-hour energy performance predictions and compliance with standards like ASHRAE 90.1. Widely used for design optimization, retrofitting analysis, and research, it supports advanced features like custom control strategies and radiative heat transfer.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate and detailed HVAC system modeling, including variable refrigerant flow and radiant systems
- Free and open-source with extensive documentation and community support
- Handles complex building geometries, schedules, and energy conservation measures effectively
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to text-based IDF input files and lack of native GUI
- Time-intensive model setup and debugging without third-party tools
- Limited built-in visualization and reporting capabilities
Best For
Experienced HVAC engineers and energy analysts in commercial building design who need precise, standards-compliant simulations.
Pricing
Completely free (open-source software)
Conclusion
The commercial HVAC software landscape is robust, with Autodesk Revit leading as the top choice, offering comprehensive 3D modeling and coordination for seamless system design. Close behind, Carrier HAP excels with precise load calculations and energy analysis, while TRACE 3D Plus shines in advanced building energy modeling and optimization—each filling distinct needs. Together, these tools ensure professionals have reliable, tailored solutions to advance their work.
Take the next step in enhancing your HVAC projects: explore Autodesk Revit’s capabilities to experience industry-leading design and coordination tools firsthand.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
