Here at KSA our principals and managers continuously try to live by their motto "Profit By Design."

One way we help our clients profit is by designing facilities that are comfortable and provide control of odor and sound.

KSA architect Steve Thielke and construction manager Robert Edwards, who has worked with KSA for many years on projects in the Chicago area, have provided some insights to help us see trends in the cost of mechanical systems.

The more sophisticated the system, the more the cost. A residential or small commercial building with one zone using one furnace and air conditioning unit will cost in the $3 to $4 per square foot range. A mid-size veterinary clinic that treats dogs should have two zones requiring two furnaces and air conditioning units, and costing around $7.50 to $10.50 per square foot.

Some projects require HVAC systems that cost $20 per square foot.

Animal care facilities that treat and/or board dogs require the additional zones, additional units, and more air exchanges per hour to maintain a comfortable environment. That takes more energy than residential or simple commercial buildings because in most climates, with each air exchange the fresh air must be heated or cooled. Heat exchangers and other economizers do cost more initially but save on energy costs.

Computerized controls also add to the initial cost, but will increase the efficiency and ease of operation when programmed properly.