The MEP Lifecycle: How Contractors Can Benefit from Thinking Ahead

From the beginning of a project, MEP contractors should be thinking about the lifecycle of their systems.

Prioritizing the lifecycle early in the process helps MEP trades influence design, select and position the proper equipment, conduct thorough documentation, establish a quality-control cadence, coordinate with facilities teams and even win post-construction maintenance contracts.

Paired with sophisticated systems maintenance and monitoring systems, all aspects of lifecycle position MEP contractors to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of their installations while doubling as risk mitigation and operational efficiency strategies.

This article explores the lifecycle stages of MEP and how to leverage contractor responsibilities during the lifecycle to extend system efficiency and lifespan, plus the impact of sustainability on lifecycle determinations.  

MEP Lifecycle Stages

MEP lifecycle stages can vary between projects, but in general, the lifeycle follows six phases:

1. Design
2. Bidding and Procurement
3. Construction
4. Commissioning/Testing
5. Closeout
6. Operations and Maintenance 

The MEP contractor’s level of involvement and influence depends on the project delivery method.

To put it in shorthand, they involve conversations and suggestions in design-bid-build, recommendations in design-assist and decision-making in design-build.

Strategic Responsibilities to Boost Lifecycle Success

Best practices that lay the groundwork for long-lived, efficient systems also mitigate risk and sustain operational efficiencies for MEP contractors. 

Early Documentation Compilation

Throughout installation, MEP contractors work with manufacturers and sales representatives to gather warranties, operations and maintenance (O&M) manuals, and other important documents related to the material and equipment installed. 

At closeout, a smooth handoff provides all the information the facilities team will need to operate the systems efficiently and cost-effectively through regular, preventive and corrective maintenance.    

Prioritizing Quality Control

MEP contractors should prioritize quality control on projects for several reasons.

• Improves System Longevity.

  Quality control helps verify that systems are installed according to specifications and industry standards, reducing the likelihood of errors that could lead to system failure or inefficiency. This can help extend the lifespan of the systems, reducing the frequency and cost of repairs and replacements.

• Reduces Risk of Rework

  Identifying and addressing issues early in the installation process can prevent costly rework and project delays, saving time and money.

• Improves Safety

  Properly installed systems are less likely to fail catastrophically, which can prevent accidents and help create a safe environment for both contractors and building occupants.

• Boosts Client Satisfaction

  Delivering a project that meets high-quality standards enhances client trust and satisfaction, potentially leading to repeat business and positive referrals.

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Providing Input on New Tech

Incorporating advanced technologies can extend the lifespan of MEP systems: Modern equipment often comes with improved durability and smarter functionalities, allowing for better maintenance and monitoring. MEP contractors can help future-proof their installations by leveraging their knowledge of cutting-edge solutions.

No matter the project delivery method, MEP contractors can offer alternatives based on their knowledge of available equipment and innovations. Their expertise can significantly enhance the overall performance and sustainability of a project — and by positioning themselves as knowledgeable partners in technology selection, MEP contractors can strengthen their reputation and competitiveness in the market.

Utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM)

At a project’s end, contractors are responsible for creating 3D models that match exact installations. This as-built information, entered into building information modeling (BIM) depictions, can feed into the creation of a digital twin.

With this digital replica, smart software can run virtual "what-if" scenarios to determine the longevity, efficiency, and environmental impacts of any proposed system changes.

Collaboration with Design Teams

Collaborate with the design team on equipment selection and placement. The design and procurement phases provide time to assess the future availability of commonly needed parts, as well as the processes and equipment positioning that simplify maintenance. 

Value engineering in collaboration with the design team helps guard against procuring equipment that’s approaching obsolescence and faces shortened lifespan and usability.

Systems that allow easy swap-ins of replacement parts extend lifespan by preventing the need to replace entire units. In clash detection, the spatial coordination capabilities of BIM help prevent any repositioning from unintentionally blocking accessibility.

Building Strong Manufacturer Relationships

It's also important to build and maintain relationships with manufacturers’ representatives. With their reputations on the line, manufacturers have a stake in the longevity, efficiency, and performance of their products.

Their updates on innovations offer valuable insights for MEP contractors to share with designers and facilities teams.    

Effective Commissioning and Testing

Commissioning and testing refer to the processes involved in verifying a building's systems are designed, installed, tested, operated and maintained according to the operational requirements and performance criteria of the project owner or final client.

Stringent commissioning establishes MEP equipment’s functionality, ready to perform as designed. Getting ahead of quality control and testing before final commissioning helps avert costly surprises.

Additionally, a proactive approach to commissioning and testing allows for a smoother transition of system operations to the facilities management team. Clear documentation and validated system performance ensure that the end-users can efficiently operate and maintain the systems.

Creating a Post-construction Maintenance Plan

Taking control of maintenance creates a clear line of succession.

The MEP contractor who installed the equipment and knows it best becomes responsible for its upkeep and efficiency, committing to standards- and warranty-based delivery of preventive and corrective maintenance.

Offering a post-construction maintenance plan demonstrates the contractor's commitment to quality and client service. Providing ongoing support and ensuring the systems' reliability also can help contractors build stronger relationships with clients.

Sustainability and Efficiency Considerations

The demands of energy efficiency and sustainability impose a heavy burden on highly sophisticated systems, and steps taken to extend lifecycle can also benefit efficiency. 

The outcomes of climate change, including intense rainfalls and higher temperatures, are factoring into equipment selection. Many pieces sit outdoors, exposed to the elements. Those on rooftops, especially, require the life-extending protections provided by anti-corrosive materials and coatings. 

Historical weather data traditionally informs equipment choices, but projections of future average temperatures, whether rising or falling, can also be helpful for right-sizing heating and cooling loads, preventing them from becoming ineffective or worn out in a few short years.

Extending lifespan also relies on calculations of running time and speed that minimize wear and tear, preventing burnout by running systems at best efficiency point (BEP) rather than constantly pushed to their limits. 

And because the building management systems (BMS) and building automation systems (BAS) will be monitoring and controlling MEP installations, MEP contractors are usually responsible for hiring sub-tier controls contractors. 

That makes MEP contractors the linchpins for BMS/BAS controls and monitoring that optimize system lifespans and efficiency. Carefully managing controls contractors for schedule, quality controls, and commissioning ensures that projects stay on track and installations are performing their critical functions from Day One. 

Creating Lasting Success Through the MEP Lifecycle

Long before MEP contractors complete a project, they can set up their systems for success. A lifecycle-oriented mindset contributes to safer and more cost-effective operations, a stronger brand, and quality installations that last for years.

Emphasizing early planning, strategic collaboration and the integration and use of advanced technologies optimizes operational efficiencies but and helps make sure installations remain adaptable to future innovations and environmental demands.

This forward-thinking mindset can help MEP contractors secure a competitive edge in the market and uphold the integrity and reliability of the systems they implement.

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