Why does an HVAC system sometimes fall short of expectations, even when its design looks right on paper?
An online panel hosted by the Women in ASHRAE Committee, ASHRAE Saudi Arabia Chapter, will explore that question on Thursday 29 October 2026 at 18:00 Saudi Arabia time (15:00 UTC).
Organised in support of Global HVACR Women Week, “From Design to Reality: Why HVAC Systems Underperform” will bring women’s professional expertise into a discussion with relevance across the sector—from design and installation to commissioning and facilities management.
Connecting design expectations with operating performance
The panel will examine the gaps between intended and actual HVAC performance, including installation and commissioning challenges and their consequences for energy efficiency, indoor air quality and occupant comfort.
The conversation will also explore practical solutions and the collaboration needed to improve handover, commissioning and ongoing operation.
For designers, contractors, commissioning specialists, facilities teams and students, it offers an opportunity to consider how decisions at each stage influence the performance of the completed system.
Meet the panel
Dr. Carmen El Chadaideh
Managing Partner, Kilmacontra.
Naureen Ghaffar
Advisor, Business Development, MEP Consulting Engineers (Pvt.) Ltd.
The discussion will be moderated by Engr. Javeria Asad, Chair of the Women in ASHRAE Committee, Saudi Arabia Chapter.
Join the discussion
Date: Thursday 29 October 2026
Start time: 18:00 Saudi Arabia (UTC+3) / 15:00 UTC
Platform: Webex
Organiser: Women in ASHRAE Committee, ASHRAE Saudi Arabia Chapter
Share the invitation with a colleague whose work connects design decisions with real-world HVAC performance.
Global HVACR Women Week runs from 25–31 October 2026, creating opportunities to share knowledge, recognise women’s contributions and build connections across the international HVACR community.
Local voices. Global connections. One HVACR community.
