Richard A. Reed, P.E.
Principal Consultant
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Expert QuestionS & AnswerS
How does investigating HVAC systems differ from plumbing systems, and what unique evidence or challenges does each present?
The substandard design or construction of an HVAC system is more recognizable to its customer than the substandard design or construction of a plumbing system. Generally, a plumbing system’s defects are tolerated, if even known, absent a catastrophic failure resulting in injury or damage. Generally, the performance of an HVAC system is more empirical than the performance of a plumbing system.
What’s the most common mistake parties make early in a mechanical and electrical failure investigation matter that complicates the investigation later?
The most common mistake in mechanical failure investigations is the failure to appreciate the in situ, on-site, in-place conditions. The comprehensive analysis of failed equipment, appliance, device, or component part is compromised with only having access to what’s been identified and recovered as evidence by others, without an appreciation of other potential contributory or causal factors.
Background
Mr. Richard Reed holds a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering and is currently licensed as a professional engineer in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. He also holds a certificate with the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying.
As a lead mechanical engineer, Mr. Reed has mechanical and process engineering, construction, and startup experience in virtually all fluid systems including heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) chiller systems; boiler systems; compressed air; vacuum; plumbing; fire protection; air handlers; scrubbers; chemical batch systems; and distribution, waste collection, and waste treatment systems.
As a project manager, Mr. Reed has extensive experience in the programming, design, management, and execution of diversified commercial and industrial projects. He has been responsible for the preliminary and detailed design documents, on-site construction support, and startup of a multitude of projects ranging in size from $2,500 to $400 million and has comprehensive experience acting as owner’s representative. He has broad experience in interfacing with AHJs and code-compliance issues supported by his comprehensive knowledge of the building code. His experience includes preliminary development planning, site master planning and zoning issues, building code reviews, and compliance resolution.
Mr. Reed has extensive experience handling construction defect investigations for residential and commercial properties. He has performed cause and origin analyses for mechanical and plumbing system and equipment failures, as well as analyses on a broad spectrum of product and component failures.
Education and Certifications
• Mechanical Engineering, B.E.: State University of New York, Stony Brook (1987)
• Licensed Professional Mechanical Engineer: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas