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Expert HVAC Solutions

Commercial HVAC design + forensic engineering expertise. One point of accountability.

About Us

At Colwell ECS, we are a premier mechanical engineering consulting firm renowned for our expertise in HVAC solutions and expert witness services for commercial and mission-critical facilities. Founded by Tyler G. Colwell, PE—a licensed professional engineer with over 35 years of hands-on experience in HVAC design, forensic analysis, and high-stakes litigation support—our firm was established to deliver impartial, evidence-based insights that resolve complex engineering disputes and drive informed decision-making. Based in Reno, NV, and serving clients nationwide, we've earned a trusted reputation for precision and reliability, serving diverse industries from data centers to high-rise developments with a focus on sustainable, energy-efficient systems that withstand rigorous scrutiny.

What truly distinguishes Colwell ECS is our leadership in expert witness services, where we provide comprehensive forensic engineering analysis, deposition testimony, and litigation support to navigate the intricacies of legal challenges in the built environment. Complementing our HVAC design capabilities, our Reno-based team excels in delivering objective, defensible reports that meet the highest standards of regulatory compliance and courtroom admissibility. Whether you're pursuing innovative construction projects or require credible expert testimony in disputes involving system failures, code violations, or performance claims, our collaborative approach minimizes risks, uncovers root causes, and maximizes value. At Colwell ECS, we're dedicated partners, harnessing proven methodologies and cutting-edge tools to foster resilience, efficiency, and justice in every engagement.

Services

Expert Witness & Forensic Consulting

  • HVAC failure investigation and root cause analysis

  • Construction defect evaluation and professional negligence assessment

  • Mechanical system performance analysis (airflow, temperature, humidity, pressurization)

  • Code compliance review (ASHRAE, Title 24, IMC, IBC)

  • Expert reports, declarations, deposition, and trial testimony

  • Independent third-party evaluation for insurance or subrogation claims

Commercial HVAC Design Consulting

  • Independent mechanical/HVAC design (hydronic, DX, heat pump, VRF, hybrid systems)

  • Mechanical load calculations and energy modeling (ASHRAE / Title 24 compliance)

  • Equipment selection, specification development, design-build coordination

  • Revit/AutoCAD support, peer review, QA/QC, and constructability analysis

  • Data center cooling and mission-critical mechanical system design