Partner With Us
Build With Balance is an HVAC design firm specializing in elegant, efficient HVAC systems that integrate seamlessly into residential architecture. We partner with architects, builders, developers, and homeowners in the Pacific Northwest to simplify the HVAC design process, delivering performance and peace of mind.
About Our Founder
Aaron Barnett is an expert in HVAC design and installation with a focus on high-performance and Passive House building. He began his career as a project superintendent at Cascade Built in 2015, gaining extensive hands-on experience in constructing low-load, high-efficiency Passive House-certified homes. In 2020, Aaron founded Build With Balance to bring high-quality, third-party HVAC design services to residential projects throughout the region. Working with owners, architects and builders, he and his team design systems that meet rigorous efficiency standards while enhancing home comfort and livability.
How We Help
For Architects
We help architects and designers thoughtfully integrate HVAC design into their plans, avoiding the all-to-common outcome of poorly placed mini-split heads or awkward soffits in inconvenient locations. Engaging with us during the design development phase, even before submitting for a building permit, allows us to collaborate with the architecture and structural design teams to elegantly integrate the HVAC design into the architectural design so that both are maximized. The result is an HVAC system that delivers comfort and efficiency while preserving the architectural vision.
For Builders
Bringing a finely crafted home to life is an intricate process that requires extensive planning and coordination. We provide complete HVAC documentation, including drawings, equipment specs, and written plans, so you can coordinate seamlessly with installers and avoid surprises later in the project. Our designs deliver a clear plan for the mechanical systems early in the construction process to deliver outstanding project results.
For Developers
The newest Washington State Energy Code contains many complex requirements that have tripped up many an experienced project team. This can slow both the inspection and approval process, and negatively impact the project budget if you have not planned for the right combination of HVAC equipment. All of this is doubly true for projects that are pursuing additional regulatory approvals, such as Passive House, Built Green, or Energy Star, each of which come with their own particular HVAC regulations. We bring a deep understanding of these requirements to the HVAC design process, ensuring that your project can cleanly pass all these regulatory hurdles.
For Residents
Your home, above all, should be comfortable. Our HVAC designs for your residence will result in higher comfort, better indoor air quality, and eliminate the threats of mold, corrosion, and rot. Our process starts with a computer model to understand the heating, cooling, and ventilation needs of your home. From there, we work with you and your project team to develop HVAC systems that deliver more consistent temperatures, cleaner air, and a better home environment.