FreshCo Foods MEP Design — Cantelmi Engineering
As part of a grocery store remodel project, I was responsible for developing the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) layout under the supervision of Cantelmi Engineering’s discipline leads. My work included documenting existing utility infrastructure, identifying reusable systems, and assisting in the redesign of mechanical and electrical components to meet new operational requirement.
Mechanical (HVAC) System Design
My primary responsibility was developing the HVAC system layout for the renovated space. This included:
- Conducting site surveys to locate existing rooftop units (RTUs), ducting, and mechanical penetrations.
- Meeting with the owner to determine the required number and type of refrigeration and freezer units, which significantly influence internal heat loads.
- Using the building’s square footage, occupancy assumptions, and refrigeration load estimates to perform CFM and cooling load calculations (per ASHRAE guidelines) to determine the required airflow and tonnage.
- Specifying the number, type, and capacity of new AC/RTU units needed to satisfy the calculated loads.
- Creating a complete HVAC layout, including:
- Rooftop unit placement
- Main and branch duct routing
- Supply, return, and exhaust registers
- Refrigerant line routing and equipment coordination
- Ensuring proper clearances, access paths, and compliance with California Mechanical Code (CMC).
Electrical System Design
Following the HVAC design, I assisted in determining the building’s electrical service requirements.
- Documented all existing panels, feeders, conduits, and equipment loads.
- Estimated preliminary connected and demand loads for refrigeration cases, lighting layouts, point-of-sale systems, and mechanical equipment.
- Identified that the increased refrigeration and HVAC demand exceeded the existing service capacity, requiring a new transformer and updated service equipment.
- After transformer sizing and the number of new panels were confirmed by the electrical engineer, I drafted:
- A complete electrical wiring layout
- Updated panel schedules
- Conduit routing diagrams
- Ensured coordination between electrical and mechanical systems, especially for dedicated circuits serving refrigeration and HVAC loads
Plumbing System Support
Although I did not design the plumbing system, I supported the project by:
- Performing site visits to document existing waste, vent, and water supply lines.
- Verifying equipment tie-in points and drain locations for the refrigeration contractor.
- Completing the majority of the plumbing drafting, including fixture locations, hot/cold supply routing, and floor drain placements.
Summary This project strengthened my abilities in applied mechanical design, load calculation, cross-discipline coordination, and building-system drafting. It provided practical experience with HVAC sizing, electrical load evaluation, and real-world MEP integration for commercial facilities.
Appendix - Project Plans
Figure 1. - Duct Layout
Figure 2. - Ventilationtion and AC unit layout
Figure 3. - Panel Schedule
Figure 4. - Lighting Schedule and Layout