This blog explains the key differences and compatibilities between building simulation software and Hysopt, showing how the two complement each other to deliver more reliable, efficient, and verifiable HVAC systems.
When introducing Hysopt in new markets, we often face the same question: “So, you’re just another building simulation tool?” The confusion is understandable. Building simulation software such as IES, TAS, HAP, or Trace 3D has been a cornerstone in building design for decades. But Hysopt is not a building simulation tool. In fact, our role in the workflow is very different – and that’s exactly where our added value lies.
Consider this: a building simulation tool might tell you a new office will consume 1.2 million kWh annually. But it won’t show you whether the heating system is oversized, whether the distribution network is balanced, or how much carbon you can save with smarter control. That’s where Hysopt comes in.
This blog explains the key differences and compatibilities between building simulation software and Hysopt, showing how the two complement each other to deliver more reliable, efficient, and verifiable HVAC systems.
Building simulation software is designed to model the whole building. It predicts energy consumption, heating and cooling loads, comfort levels, daylighting, and other environmental conditions. For example, a consultant might use IES to estimate annual kWh consumption or hours of overheating risk for a proposed school.
These tools are widely used by architects and engineers to:
Their strength lies in analysing overall performance across different design scenarios. However, their system design functionalities are often limited or simplified, which leaves a gap when it comes to the detailed hydraulic and thermodynamic performance of HVAC systems.
Hysopt focuses on the HVAC systems themselves – the heating and cooling distribution, generation, and control. Our software uses a physics-based approach to simulate, calculate, and optimise HVAC systems with a level of accuracy that spreadsheets or “rules of thumb” simply cannot achieve.
What Hysopt does:
What Hysopt doesn’t do:
Here’s how it compares at a glance:
This distinction is critical: Hysopt complements building simulation software by bridging the gap between high-level building predictions and the real-world performance of HVAC systems.
Besides the technical stage, one of the most powerful aspects of Hysopt is that it can be applied in the conceptual stage, even before a full building design is in place. Using early load estimates from building simulation, Hysopt enables consultants and contractors to:
Aligned with the RIBA Plan of Work, Hysopt is particularly valuable from Stage 2 (Concept Design) onwards, supporting better decisions well before systems are locked in.
In markets like Canada, where traditional spreadsheets and rules-of-thumb dominate, this represents a huge step-change. In the UK, growing demand for traceable and verifiable performance (driven by NABERS UK, CIBSE TM63, and net zero targets) makes Hysopt a vital addition to the toolkit.
Rather than competing with building simulation software, Hysopt fills the missing link. By combining building-level predictions with physics-based HVAC system optimisation, the industry can deliver higher-performing, lower-carbon, and more reliable buildings.
Ready to see the difference for yourself? Request a free trial today and discover how Hysopt can bring certainty to your HVAC projects.
