compare energyplus hysopt

Best EnergyPlus Alternative for HVAC System Software

EnergyPlus vs Hysopt

EnergyPlus is powerful for whole-building energy modelling — but it can be complex, time-consuming and difficult to learn. Hysopt replaces steep learning curves with an intuitive, user-friendly platform that combines dynamic system simulation, hydraulic balancing and control strategy validation — all in one streamlined workflow.

What’s the Difference between EnergyPlus and Hysopt?

EnergyPlus is widely respected for building energy modelling. It simulates building energy use, HVAC operation and climate impact over time, but it requires advanced expertise and manual effort to set up and interpret results.

But here’s the gap:
EnergyPlus doesn’t provide a quick, user-friendly way to design and verify the actual HVAC system — and its complexity often slows projects down.

Hysopt bridges that gap with a modern, intuitive interface built for engineers. It uses load data to create a fully dynamic system model — optimising hydraulics, validating controls, right-sizing equipment and delivering verified results faster.

energyplus vs hysopt
Features
Hysopt
EnergyPlus
Dynamic HVAC System Simulation
  • Full thermal, hydraulic & controls
    • Limited
    Hydraulic Network Design & Balancing
    • Built-in
    • Not available
    Control Strategy Validation
    • Included
    • Limited
    System Sizing & Equipment Selection
    • Automated & guided
    • Manual set-up
    Energy & CO₂ Optimisation
    • Built-in
    • Building-level only
    Ease of Use
    • User-friendly workflows
    • Steep learning curve

    Why Engineers Choose Hysopt Over EnergyPlus

    1. From Complex to User-Friendly

    EnergyPlus is powerful but demanding. Hysopt offers advanced capabilities in a much more accessible interface — saving hours of setup and training.

    2. Focus on Real HVAC Systems

    EnergyPlus models buildings. Hysopt designs the actual HVAC system that meets performance and energy targets.

    3. Faster, Clearer Results

    With guided workflows, ready-made templates and automated reports, Hysopt delivers actionable results faster — without endless manual steps.

    Who Benefits from Moving to Hysopt

    MEP Engineers & Consultants

    Replace complex EnergyPlus workflows with intuitive HVAC design and simulation.

    Commissioning & Operations Teams

    Balance and optimise systems easily before installation.

    Energy & Sustainability Managers

    Get proven savings without the steep software learning curve.

    How to Switch from EnergyPlus to Hysopt

    Switching from EnergyPlus to Hysopt is straightforward — and far easier to work with:

    • Import load and performance data from your EnergyPlus model
    • Build dynamic system simulations in Hysopt with minimal setup
    • Optimise hydraulics, controls and sizing quickly using guided workflows
    • Onboard easily with expert support and a user-friendly interface

    laptop with screenshot of the hysopt simulator
    Capabilities
    Hysopt
    EnergyPlus
    Thermal & Hydraulic Simulation
    • Advanced engine
      • Limited
      User-Friendly Interface
      • Intuitive, guided workflows
      • Complex & technical
      Hydraulic Balancing & Control Modelling
      • Included
      • Not available
      System Right-Sizing
      • Built-in automation
        • Manual process
        Energy & CO₂ Savings Verification
        • Clear reports
          • Requires expertise to interpret

          Frequently asked questions

          Does Hysopt replace EnergyPlus?

          Yes — Hysopt can replace EnergyPlus for many projects because it includes heating and cooling load calculation, dynamic system simulation, hydraulic balancing and control optimisation in a far more user-friendly environment.

          Is Hysopt easier to use than EnergyPlus?

          Yes — Hysopt is designed for engineers, with guided workflows, templates and automated calculations. You don’t need to be a modelling specialist to get results.

          Can I import my EnergyPlus data into Hysopt?

          Absolutely — building loads and performance data from EnergyPlus can be used as inputs for Hysopt’s system simulation, making the transition smooth.

          How does Hysopt save time compared to EnergyPlus?

          EnergyPlus requires detailed setup and interpretation. Hysopt’s intuitive interface, automation and ready-to-use workflows mean you get optimised results faster.

          Ready to see the Difference?

          Make the switch from EnergyPlus to Hysopt today — and deliver HVAC systems with proven performance, without the steep learning curve.

          Discover the Hysopt software

          Discover our innovative simulation and calculation software, completely tailored to HVAC engineers.
          Join the ranks of leading professionals already using Hysopt to deliver remarkable results.