MEP Course Online
VDCI's MEP course combines building-systems fundamentals with blueprint reading. Students study mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, including HVAC, power and related building services, then connect those systems to the plans and schematics that document them. The focus is understanding and interpreting MEP work, rather than learning Revit-based design software.
What's included
- 40 hours of project-based instruction
- 138 training videos
- Instructor support for questions during the course
- Bonus one-on-one training session
- Verified digital certificate of completion
- Instruction at an ACCET-accredited school
- 5 CEUs
Overview
A 40-hour bundle pairing an MEP systems course with MEP blueprint reading, so students learn how mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems work and how they are documented at the same time.
The systems course covers HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and AV, telecom, and data systems, including thermal comfort, indoor air quality, emergency power, and coordination between systems. The blueprint course covers reading mechanical plans, electrical layouts, and plumbing schematics as they appear in real document sets. It is one of the shorter and lower-cost entries in VDCI's catalog.
Who this course is for
Construction and BIM professionals who need clearer MEP coordination, entry-level engineers, technicians, and project managers, and designers working with MEP drawings.
Tuition & enrollment
Enroll with Virtual Design and Construction Institute, the course provider.
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Preview the course
Watch free previews and explore the lessons included with enrollment at VDCI.
Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online
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Thermal Comfort Overview
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:22
Covering mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, the course will delve into factors affecting thermal comfort, such as temperature, humidity, air movement, mean radiant temperature, metabolic rate, and clothing.
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Thermal Comfort Definition
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:35
Achieve thermal comfort by ensuring occupants are satisfied with their environment, balancing temperature, humidity, and airflow.
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Thermal Comfort Factors
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
6:30
Determine factors influencing thermal comfort, such as temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, activity level, metabolic rate, and clothing.
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Thermal Comfort Air Temperature
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:34
Identify optimal air temperature ranges for different activities like working out, office work, watching TV, showering, and sleeping.
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Thermal Comfort Relative Humidity
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:31
Maintain optimal air temperature and relative humidity levels to ensure comfort and prevent health issues in buildings.
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Thermal Comfort Air Movement
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
0:56
Optimize air velocity to minimize heat loss and discomfort for occupants by ensuring a constant flow of air at 20 feet per minute and avoiding turbulent airflow.
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Thermal Comfort Radiation
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
7:02
Calculate the mean radiant temperature to determine the air temperature needed for thermal comfort.
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Thermal Comfort Metabolic Rate
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
2:31
Design building HVAC systems based on occupants' metabolic rates to ensure thermal comfort.
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Thermal Comfort Clothing
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
3:30
Determine clothing insulation levels using clo values for thermal comfort in building design.
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Thermal Comfort Examples
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
2:22
Predict and design factors to achieve thermal comfort by controlling clothing, metabolic rate, and environmental conditions, based on ASHRAE guidelines.
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Thermal Comfort ASHRAE 55 Survey
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
1:28
Conduct a thermal comfort survey based on ASHRAE guidelines to evaluate occupant satisfaction and adjust building operations accordingly to achieve 80% thermal comfort.
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Thermal Comfort Summary
Topic 1: Thermal Comfort
0:51
Learned about thermal comfort factors and their importance in future mechanical equipment and systems decisions. Next step: explore indoor air quality.
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Indoor Air Quality Overview
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
3:07
Explore the importance of indoor air quality in HVAC design, address common pollutants, and emphasize the need for coordination among design, construction, and maintenance teams to ensure healthy indoor environments.
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Indoor Air Quality The Issue
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
2:26
Improve indoor air quality in buildings to prevent negative health effects.
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Indoor Air Quality Pollutant Sources
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
8:05
Identify, control, and reduce indoor air pollutants from various sources like formaldehyde, VOCs, asbestos, lead, fuel burning systems, cleaning products, bacteria, mold, viruses, pollen, dust mites, animal dander, radon, pesticides, smoke, dust, and exhaust to improve indoor air quality.
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Indoor Air Quality The Solution
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
4:20
Eliminate pollutants, improve ventilation, follow ASHRAE guidelines, protect building materials during construction.
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Indoor Air Quality Summary
Topic 2: Indoor Air Quality
1:08
Discussing indoor air quality, including health issues, pollutant sources, and possible solutions, was covered, preparing for the next topic on mechanical systems.
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Mechanical HVAC Overview
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
4:48
Learn about mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing, in this comprehensive course covering HVAC equipment, typical systems, major equipment pieces, air distribution, chilled water and heating water loops, central utility plants, controls, and test and balance.
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Mechanical HVAC Equipment Purpose
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:25
Understand thermal comfort and indoor air quality, calculate heating and cooling loads, and consider humidity, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide levels for HVAC system design.
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Mechanical HVAC System
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:09
Evaluate HVAC systems based on budget, facility type, owner preferences, and engineer involvement, considering factors such as air handling units, zone control, VAV boxes, and heating/cooling mechanisms.
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Mechanical AHU
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:09
Describe how an air handler works, including the components like louvers, filters, coils, and fans, and explain the importance of monitoring filter pressure differentials to avoid issues like clogging.
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Mechanical AHU Air Mixing
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:14
Mix air from different sources for ventilation and energy efficiency, balance heating and cooling requirements, and adjust airflows using dampers in the air mixing chamber.
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Mechanical AHU Filters
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:15
Select and install the appropriate filters for air handling systems based on MERV ratings and operational requirements.
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Mechanical AHU Coils
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:47
Condition the air by transferring heat between water and air through water coils that consist of copper tubes and fins, with multiple rows for cooling and fewer rows for heating, improving performance with increased surface area for heat transfer.
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Mechanical AHU Evaporative Cooling
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:55
Evaporative cooling in air handling system can be used in low humidity areas to naturally cool the air and introduce humidity if needed.
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Mechanical AHU Fans
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:46
Fans move air through buildings in HVAC systems, with two main types being centrifugal and axial fans.
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Mechanical Duct
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
5:06
Sheet metal duct is used to transfer air throughout a facility, with round duct being more efficient for airflow but requiring more vertical space compared to rectangular duct.
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Mechanical Duct Uses
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:58
Discussing different uses for ductwork, including supply air distribution, return air, introduction of outside air for ventilation, exhaust air for specific applications, and makeup air to balance pressures. Testing ducts for leaks is also highlighted.
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Mechanical Plenum
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:53
Utilize the return air plenum above the ceiling to recirculate air back to the air handler, reducing the need for extensive ductwork.
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Mechanical Dampers
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:45
Adjust air volume in ducts using dampers, manually or automatically, for temperature control, system balancing, and fire protection.
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Mechanical VAV
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:39
Adjusting the volume of air in a building using variable air volume boxes improves energy efficiency and thermal comfort for occupants.
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Mechanical GRD
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:25
Differentiate between a grill, register, and diffuser for air distribution in HVAC systems.
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Mechanical FCU
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
7:08
Fan coil units condition air in individual spaces using filters, coils, and a fan to provide heating or cooling based on a two- or four-pipe system without the need for large ductwork.
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Mechanical PTAC
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:26
PTAC units independently provide cooling and heating without hot or chilled water piping, using their own compressor, condenser, electric heating coil, or heat pump within the unit, installed through the wall or window, giving occupants individual control but requiring high maintenance, being noisy, and lacking aesthetic appeal.
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Mechanical Convectors
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:50
Discussing convector units, including baseboard and sill height options, which heat using water, steam, or electricity and improve mean radiant temperature for occupants, with air drawn from below and discharged through the top, as well as mentioning chilled beams as a growing popular option for cooling spaces.
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Mechanical Unit Heater
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:06
Unit heaters heat air by blowing it over heating coils, commonly used in unoccupied spaces to prevent pipes from freezing.
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Mechanical Radiant Heat
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:45
Discussing and exploring options for radiant heat for indoor and outdoor applications, including the use of hot water or glycol in tubing systems embedded in flooring or concrete for even heat distribution.
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Mechanical Chilled Water System
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:33
Review the chilled water system, including the chiller, water coil, pump, and cooling tower, to explain the process of cooling the water for HVAC systems.
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Mechanical Chiller
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:06
Construct team must plan for chiller arrival and access, choose suitable location in building, and install chiller for heat removal and transfer in chilled water loop.
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Mechanical Cooling Tower
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:08
Install the cooling tower in a location with free air circulation to ensure efficient operation and prevent damage.
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Mechanical Boiler
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
2:33
Design and install boilers for heating water in buildings to provide hot water or steam efficiently, considering fuel sources, heat transfer surfaces, combustion chambers, and materials.
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Mechanical Hydronic Piping
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:51
Install and label insulated hydronic piping for chilled water, heating water, steam, and condensate lines, incorporating valves for flow control and automation as needed.
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Mechanical Pumps
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:02
Discussing the use of pumps to circulate water in a building, including photos of pumps in action, as part of the HVAC system overview.
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Mechanical Central Utility Plant
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
5:17
Central utility plants centralize the production of utilities to serve multiple buildings or large facilities, distributing electricity, natural gas, water, steam, and chilled water efficiently and reliably.
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Mechanical Controls
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
6:36
Operable windows are introduced to address the lack of individual control in commercial buildings, while automated control systems like DDC and BAS enhance comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency by monitoring and adjusting various building systems based on sensor inputs.
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Mechanical Test and Balance
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
3:29
Test and balance all components of an HVAC system to optimize function and prevent issues like pressure imbalances and inefficiencies.
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Mechanical HVAC Summary
Topic 3: Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
1:31
Discussed HVAC systems, equipment, and controls, and introduced centralized utility plants, concluding with test and balance.
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Plumbing Overview
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:52
Learn about the origin of plumbing from Roman times, the role of lead pipes, the connection between lead poisoning and the fall of the Roman Empire, public health issues related to waterborne diseases in the 1800s, and the importance of plumbing codes in ensuring sanitation and public health.
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Plumbing System
Topic 4: Plumbing
9:04
Plumbing includes supplying clean water and removing waste through domestic water and drain waste and vent systems.
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Plumbing Fixtures
Topic 4: Plumbing
6:36
Classify water closets into wall-hung or floor-mounted, tank or tankless options. Tankless toilets use water pressure for flushing and are wall-hung, requiring substantial support. Consider water usage regulations for fixtures and options like dual-flushing or automatic flushing. Urinals can be waterless for reduced water usage. Lavatories are for handwashing, while sinks have multiple purposes. Showers may include emergency eyewash units and require quality checks for leaks. Drinking fountains can include features for water bottle filling. Ganged fixtures save on plumbing materials and labor costs by grouping fixtures together in close proximity.
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Plumbing Domestic Supply
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:15
Discuss domestic water supply material types, including copper, PEX, stainless steel, galvanized steel, PVC, and CPVC, highlighting their characteristics and applications, testing for leaks, and chlorinating the system before use.
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Plumbing DWV
Topic 4: Plumbing
5:53
Discussing drain, waste, and vent systems, including the importance of P-traps to prevent sewer gases from entering spaces and the function of vents to allow proper flow and release of sewer gases.
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Plumbing Drains
Topic 4: Plumbing
3:39
Install floor drains, floor sinks, roof drains, and hose bibs as part of the plumbing system.
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Plumbing Other Pipe Systems
Topic 4: Plumbing
0:59
Identify process lines installed by pipe fitters in buildings such as hospitals, labs, and manufacturing plants.
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Plumbing Summary
Topic 4: Plumbing
0:49
Reviewing plumbing system overview, domestic water side, riser diagram, fixtures, domestic supply, drain, waste, vent, and other pipe systems discussed in class; moving on to electrical systems in the next session.
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Electrical Overview
Topic 5: Electrical
5:16
Learn about electrical systems and equipment, including terminology, voltage classifications, power distribution, ground fault, bonding, grounding, lightning protection, and emergency and standby power.
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Electrical Terminology
Topic 5: Electrical
10:11
Summarize the comparison between water and electricity terminology and explain the advantages of converting from high to low voltages in electrical systems.
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Electrical Voltage
Topic 5: Electrical
10:49
Explain voltage ratings and differences between single-phase and three-phase systems in electrical applications.
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Electrical Power Energy
Topic 5: Electrical
5:27
Describe how power and energy are utilized in electrical systems within buildings.
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Electrical Distribution
Topic 5: Electrical
5:36
A typical commercial building's electrical system includes a main service from the utility, a transformer to step down voltage, a main distribution panel, branch panels for different functions, and possibly additional transformers for further voltage reduction.
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Electrical Temporary Power Lights
Topic 5: Electrical
3:01
Design, plan, and install temporary power system for construction site, ensuring safety, code compliance, and proper lighting levels for trades.
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Electrical Main Service Underground
Topic 5: Electrical
0:38
Summarize underground electrical installation requirements, including PVC conduit material, potential concrete encasing, and red dye mandates, as discussed previously in the course.
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Electrical Transformers
Topic 5: Electrical
1:28
Explain how transformers step down voltages for power transmission at buildings.
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Electrical Meters
Topic 5: Electrical
0:36
Discussing the metering process after the transformer installation in commercial and industrial settings, including the possibility of integrating the meter with the main switchgear.
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Electrical Rooms
Topic 5: Electrical
1:15
Coordinate the layout and design of the electrical room according to code requirements for clearances, dimensions, and equipment access, as well as manage cooling load considerations and equipment placement.
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Electrical Main Distribution
Topic 5: Electrical
0:51
Summarize the main distribution panel's various names and functions as a key component in electrical systems.
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Electrical Panelboard
Topic 5: Electrical
1:38
Distribute power to a floor or zone, reach a panel board, divide power further, feed circuits, organize panel based on function, install main switch and circuit breakers, protect live wires with cover, use NEMA standards for enclosures, specify conditions like NEMA Type 1 or 4X, discuss circuit breakers in panel board.
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Electrical Protective Devices
Topic 5: Electrical
5:40
Protect electrical circuits from overcurrent and overvoltage by installing circuit breakers or fuses at various points in the distribution system.
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Electrical Conductor Wiring
Topic 5: Electrical
4:12
Describe wire size by diameter in millimeters and American wire gauge (AWG) in the United States, explaining that as the gauge number increases, the wire diameter decreases to reflect how wire is produced and pulled through dies to achieve the appropriate gauge.
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Electrical Conduit
Topic 5: Electrical
3:26
Covering the purposes and types of conduit used in wiring installations.
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Electrical Boxes
Topic 5: Electrical
1:39
Summarize the various box types used in electrical work and their purposes, including outlet boxes, device boxes, junction boxes, and pull boxes, as well as the importance of proper installation and coordination with end users.
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Electrical Cable Tray
Topic 5: Electrical
2:48
Pulling wire through cable tray for low voltage cabling in commercial buildings is efficient and cost-effective, providing easy access for future renovations or upgrades.
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Electrical Pulling Terminating Wire
Topic 5: Electrical
3:36
Pulling wires through conduit involves stripping insulation off the wires, combining them into a wire head, and attaching them to fish tape, cable, or rope already in the conduit. Electricians pull the wires simultaneously through the conduit using lubricant and limit the number of bends. Wires are then terminated in panels, receptacles, switches, lights, and equipment, following a specific sequence involving coordination with other trades.
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Electrical Equipment Circuits
Topic 5: Electrical
0:44
Install dedicated panels, local disconnects, motor starters, and VFDs for equipment in labs, hospitals, or manufacturing plants.
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Electrical Lighting
Topic 5: Electrical
4:31
Discuss lighting circuits, luminaire schedules, lamp types (incandescent, fluorescent, LED), and lighting efficiency improvements in commercial buildings.
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Electrical Grounding Lightning Protection
Topic 5: Electrical
4:49
Discussing ground faults, GFCIs, bonding, grounding, and lightning protection in electrical systems.
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Electrical Emergency Standby Power
Topic 5: Electrical
4:30
Discuss emergency and standby power requirements and systems, including emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, and generators for critical loads.
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Electrical Photovoltaic Systems
Topic 5: Electrical
1:33
Discussing photovoltaic systems, their applications, and potential for various installations and energy solutions.
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Electrical Summary
Topic 5: Electrical
1:28
Covered definitions, voltage classifications, power distribution, electrical systems & equipment in a building, circuits, grounding, lightning protection, emergency power, and photovoltaic systems; next, discuss low voltage systems like audiovisual, teledata, and security in the building.
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Low Voltage Overview
Topic 6: Low Voltage
1:46
Discuss teledata, audiovisual, and security scopes in low voltage systems, specifying requirements and divisions in construction projects.
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Low Voltage Wiring
Topic 6: Low Voltage
3:48
Twist, shield, and categorize low-voltage wiring for different applications.
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Low Voltage Tele Data
Topic 6: Low Voltage
3:55
Describe Teledata systems as voice and data systems for telephone and data networks, installed by electrical contractors or Teledata subcontractors, with distribution through main and intermediate distribution frame rooms using cable tray or conduit, supported and grounded, and serving devices like wireless access points and jacks.
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Low Voltage Audio Visual
Topic 6: Low Voltage
4:42
Install televisions, speakers, and projectors for audiovisual systems in buildings.
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Low Voltage Security System
Topic 6: Low Voltage
4:43
Design, install, and program access control, surveillance, and intrusion detection systems for building security.
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Low Voltage Summary
Topic 6: Low Voltage
0:43
Covered Teledata, Audiovisual, and Security scopes in divisions 27 and 28, representing low voltage work nearing project completion. Next, review fire suppression systems for fire and life safety.
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MEP Blueprint Reading Course Online
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Course Overview
Lesson 1: MEP Systems Fundamentals
1:07
Explore how mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems support overall building performance and how to recognize basic system symbols on construction drawings.
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What Does MEP Mean?
Lesson 1: MEP Systems Fundamentals
4:20
Understand the scope of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and how each discipline supports comfort, safety, daily operations, and construction cost.
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Enrollment required
MEP Systems
Lesson 1: MEP Systems Fundamentals
6:28
Review the core functions of MEP systems, identify common equipment, and see how each system is represented on blueprints.
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MEP in Construction
Lesson 1: MEP Systems Fundamentals
4:21
Follow how MEP systems are coordinated from design through installation, commissioning, and as-built documentation.
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Mechanical Overview
Lesson 2: Mechanical Blueprint Reading Basics
5:17
Examine the structure of a mechanical plan set, including floor plans, sections, schematics, controls, and schedules.
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Mechanical Legend & General Notes Part 1
Lesson 2: Mechanical Blueprint Reading Basics
Review the purpose and contractual importance of mechanical general notes and how they affect coordination, cost, and schedule.
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Mechanical Legend & General Notes Part 2
Lesson 2: Mechanical Blueprint Reading Basics
7:59
Dive deeper into mechanical general notes covering conflict resolution, specifications, substitutions, and contractor responsibility.
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Symbols & Abbreviations Part 1
Lesson 2: Mechanical Blueprint Reading Basics
5:07
Identify air distribution symbols for diffusers, grilles, registers, ductwork, and airflow direction on mechanical plans.
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Symbols & Abbreviations Part 2
Lesson 2: Mechanical Blueprint Reading Basics
4:07
Read mechanical piping symbols, valve types, abbreviations, and line conventions for hydronic and condensate systems.
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HVAC Mechanical Set
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
7:50
Walk through a complete HVAC mechanical plan set and see how air, hydronic, roof, section, schematic, and schedule drawings work together.
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Mechanical Schedule Part 1
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
4:13
Understand how mechanical schedules organize HVAC equipment information for coordination and procurement.
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Mechanical Schedule Part 2
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
2:44
Connect air distribution floor plans to mechanical schedules using duct sizes, airflow types, and labeling conventions.
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Air Design & Ductwork Part 1
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
2:44
Interpret air distribution floor plans by tracing duct sizes, airflow direction, and system routing to occupied spaces.
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Air Design & Ductwork Part 2
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
7:05
Analyze vertical duct transitions by tracing ductwork from mechanical rooms to diffusers and identifying key components.
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Air Design & Ductwork Part 3
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
5:31
Review diffuser schedules to understand airflow requirements, branch duct sizing, and system balancing.
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Hydronic Systems Part 1
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
5:47
Explore hydronic piping plans and see how liquid-based HVAC systems are represented through pipe sizing, abbreviations, and condensate drainage.
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Hydronic Systems Part 2
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
4:42
Interpret hydronic plans by identifying valves, gauges, fittings, control devices, and tagged notes.
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Mechanical Roof Plan
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
2:57
Review mechanical roof plans showing rooftop equipment, exhaust systems, penetrations, and placement requirements.
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Enlarged Mechanical Plans
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
3:04
Examine enlarged mechanical plans to understand detailed layouts in mechanical rooms and high-density equipment areas.
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Mechanical Plan View
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
3:12
Read mechanical plan views by interpreting line types and understanding spatial relationships between systems.
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Mechanical Isometric View
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
7:08
Visualize mechanical systems in three dimensions using isometric views that show routing, clearances, and equipment size.
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Mechanical Sections
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
8:03
Interpret mechanical section cuts to understand vertical relationships, elevations, and system transitions.
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HVAC Conclusion
Lesson 3: HVAC Systems & Air Distribution Plans
2:38
See how plans, sections, isometrics, schedules, and notes work together to fully describe HVAC systems.
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Electrical Overview
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
2:58
Explore the structure and purpose of electrical plan sets covering power, lighting, and life safety systems.
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Electrical Legend & General Notes Part 1
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
6:38
Review electrical general notes to understand code requirements, responsibilities, and delegated design elements.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Legend & General Notes Part 2
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
4:19
Examine electrical general notes addressing generators, grounding, penetrations, and specialty systems.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Symbols
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
7:21
Identify common electrical symbols for receptacles, switches, panels, circuits, and fire alarm devices.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Site Plan
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
4:21
Read electrical site plans showing incoming utility power, transformers, generators, switchgear, and duct banks.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Plan
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
9:14
Interpret electrical power floor plans showing receptacles, equipment connections, panel names, circuits, and mounting heights.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Roof and Fire Plans
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
5:32
Understand how electrical power is distributed to rooftop equipment and how fire alarm systems are shown on plans.
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Enrollment required
Enlarged Electrical Room & Kitchen Plans
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
6:09
Review enlarged electrical plans showing panels, transformers, switchboards, and dense equipment layouts.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Riser Plans Part 1
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
7:20
Trace power flow through a building using electrical power riser diagrams from the utility service to the distribution panels.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Power Riser Plans Part 2
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
4:14
Interpret power risers by reviewing feeder schedules, conduit sizes, wiring types, and supporting notes.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Riser Diagram
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
3:47
Explore fire alarm riser diagrams to understand system architecture, device connectivity, and code compliance.
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Enrollment required
Fire Alarm Annunciator Panel Plan
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
2:49
Review annunciator panel matrices to understand alarm inputs, outputs, zones, and response logic.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Schedules
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
5:35
Examine electrical schedules that consolidate power requirements, emergency designations, and disconnects.
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Enrollment required
Electrical Details
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
2:56
Interpret electrical details related to mounting heights, penetrations, accessibility, and specialty systems.
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Enrollment required
Roof Lightning Protection System
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
3:28
Review roof-mounted lightning protection systems, including grounding components and surge protection coordination.
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Enrollment required
Lighting Plan
Lesson 4: Electrical & Lighting Blueprint Reading
6:12
Understand how lighting plans identify fixtures, switches, sensors, exit devices, circuits, and control logic.
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Plumbing Overview
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
3:43
Explore the structure of plumbing plan sets covering water, drainage, storm, and gas systems.
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Plumbing Legend & General Notes
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
8:07
Review plumbing general notes to understand installation requirements, coordination rules, and cost impacts.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Symbols Part 1
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
3:53
Identify plumbing symbols for drains, cleanouts, meters, annotations, and riser references.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Symbols Part 2
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
7:09
Distinguish plumbing piping systems using line conventions for domestic water, sanitary, storm, gas, and vent systems.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Floor Plans Part 1
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
6:33
Interpret plumbing floor plans showing fixtures, pipe sizes, drainage routing, and below-slab piping.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Floor Plans Part 2
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
5:06
Trace plumbing mains, branches, valves, chases, and vertical transitions with an emphasis on maintenance access.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Roof Plan
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
1:16
Review roof plans showing storm drainage starting points, roof drains, and emergency drainage systems.
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Enrollment required
Enlarged Plumbing Plans
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
7:52
Analyze enlarged plumbing plans by tracing supply, drainage, and vent piping in dense fixture areas.
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Enrollment required
Domestic Water Riser Diagram
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
2:57
Follow domestic water distribution from municipal entry through pumps, heaters, valves, and fixtures.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Riser Diagram Part 1
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
3:27
Review plumbing riser diagrams to understand domestic water distribution across multiple floors.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Riser Diagram Part 2
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
6:27
Interpret sanitary riser diagrams showing waste and vent piping, fixture connections, and roof penetrations.
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Enrollment required
Gas & Storm Riser Diagram
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
4:11
Explore gas and storm riser diagrams covering service entry, metering, regulation, and drainage paths.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Schedule
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
4:29
Review plumbing schedules consolidating fixture data, ADA requirements, rough-in sizes, and mounting details.
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Enrollment required
Plumbing Details
Lesson 5: Plumbing Systems & Riser Diagrams
5:35
Interpret plumbing details showing drains, hangers, cleanouts, heaters, and gas assemblies for inspection and long-term performance.
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Curriculum
What you'll learn
- Understand the fundamentals of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems
- Learn how HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and AV-Tel-Data systems function within buildings
- Develop skills in reading and interpreting MEP blueprints
- Identify HVAC, electrical, and plumbing components in construction drawings
- Interpret symbols, scales, schedules, and technical documentation
- Apply MEP knowledge to real-world construction and design workflows
- Improve coordination and communication using MEP plans
Course outline
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Fundamentals of MEP for Buildings Course Online 20 hours
Explore the essential systems that make buildings function, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and AV-Tel-Data systems. Gain a deep understanding of thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and emergency power systems.
- Mechanical Systems: Discover the fundamentals of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and how these systems contribute to occupant comfort and building performance.
- Electrical Systems: Explore the components of building electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, and low voltage systems such as AV, telecom, and data.
- Plumbing Systems: Learn the principles of water supply, drainage, and waste systems and their role in maintaining hygiene and safety in buildings.
- Design Coordination: Understand how MEP systems integrate within a project and the importance of designing for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
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MEP Blueprint Reading Course Online 20 hours
Gain essential skills in reading and interpreting MEP blueprints. Learn HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems to excel in construction and design projects.
- Understand the fundamentals of reading and interpreting MEP blueprints
- Identify and analyze key components in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Learn how to apply blueprint knowledge to real-world construction projects
- Develop skills to accurately interpret symbols, scales, and technical drawings
- Gain confidence in collaborating with design and construction teams using MEP plans
- Explore troubleshooting techniques for common challenges in blueprint interpretation
Course Reviews
Is this course right for you?
This course suits construction staff, technicians and designers who need to understand MEP coordination and drawings. If your goal is to model those systems in Revit or prepare for Autodesk exams, compare the separate Revit MEP certification course, which teaches a different set of software skills.
Is prior MEP experience required to enroll?
VDCI describes this course as open to beginners who are comfortable using a computer. It introduces building systems and blueprint reading together, rather than requiring an existing Revit or MEP software background.