Air Handling Unit (AHU) Installation Checklist for Project Managers - Complete HVAC Guide

Air Handling Units play a very critical role in an HVAC system because they regulate the quality of air and maintain conditions indoors. For efficient operation, safety compliance, and integration with fire control systems, the installation of an AHU needs to be precise. This check list will give the project manager a step-by-step approach to verify all the necessary parameters during the installation of an AHU, from fire panel integration to damper integration.

Category	Checklist Item	Specification / What to Verify	Status (✔/✘/N/A)	Remarks
1. Pre-Installation	Approved AHU layout and drawings received?	Check approved layout, duct routing, and coordination with fire & electrical systems.
	Site readiness confirmed?	Ensure AHU placement is accessible, flooring supports are ready, and required clearance is available.
	AHU delivery verified?	Match model number, airflow capacity (CFM), external static pressure (Pa), and motor specifications with BOQ.
	Fire panel and BMS interface drawings reviewed?	Ensure control wiring layout for fire panel integration and BMS monitoring is available.
	Lifting and handling clearance checked?	Verify space for safe unloading, movement, and installation of AHU.
2. Mounting & Positioning	Proper leveling and alignment?	AHU should be level to ±3mm, check with a spirit level, ensure correct orientation.
	Vibration isolators installed?	Install anti-vibration mounts/spring isolators as per manufacturer guidelines.
	Drain pan slope verified?	Minimum 1:100 slope towards the drain outlet, check with a water test.
	Access panel clearance?	Ensure at least 600mm clearance for filter, fan, and coil maintenance.
3. Duct & Piping Connections	Supply & return duct alignment?	Match to AHU flange, ensure flexible duct connectors at fan discharge and intake.
	Duct insulation and sealing?	Use approved insulation (min. 25mm thick) and seal joints with duct sealant or tape.
	Fire damper installed and integrated?	Confirm placement at duct penetration, check actuator wiring to fire panel.
	Chilled water/DX piping verified?	Pipe size, insulation thickness (min. 13mm Nitrile rubber for chilled water), correct valve placement.
	Condensate drain line tested?	Drain pipe slope 1:50, confirm no leaks, install U-trap if required.
4. Fire Panel & Damper Integration	Fire damper actuator function tested?	Simulate fire alarm to check auto-closure and status feedback to fire panel.
	AHU auto shut-off tested via fire panel?	Verify AHU stops operation when smoke detector triggers fire alarm.
	Smoke detector installed inside AHU?	Check placement near return air intake, confirm functionality.
	Fire alarm interface connected to BMS?	Ensure proper signal transmission for alarm and status monitoring.
	Emergency manual override tested?	Verify emergency shutdown and manual damper release functions.
5. Electrical & Controls	Power supply and voltage checked?	Verify voltage (415V/3Ph/50Hz), ensure correct phase sequence and power rating.
	Motor wiring, earthing verified?	Ensure secure terminations, proper earthing (≤ 5Ω), check MCCB rating.
	BMS/control panel connected?	Check wiring for airflow sensors, temperature sensors, damper control.
	AHU interlocks with exhaust fans tested?	Verify sequencing logic for fresh air and exhaust system synchronization.
6. Testing & Commissioning	AHU operational test performed?	Ensure smooth startup, measure current draw, check for unusual noise/vibrations.
	Airflow and static pressure verified?	Measure airflow (CFM) and external static pressure (Pa), match design values.
	Noise and vibration levels acceptable?	Ensure within manufacturer-specified decibel levels.
	Fire panel integration test completed?	Perform full fire safety simulation with AHU response verification.
	Filters installed and checked?	Confirm filter type (HEPA, MERV rating), ensure proper sealing, record initial pressure drop.
	Final commissioning report prepared?	Document airflow readings, damper operation, fire integration test, and approvals.

 

Conclusion

Installation of AHU installation checklist ensures the smooth operation while ensuring fire safety integration. Such a checklist makes it possible to avoid common pitfalls, enhance the compliance with safety aspects, and build a reliable system.

For further insights into HVAC installations, keep reading our blog!