Despite the number and variety of design tools available today,HVAC system designers have little guidance or effective methodologiesfor determining some of the most basic characteristicsof their HVAC system designs. The result is that the most cost-effectiveconfigurations generally are not obtained nor are the highestpotential overall HVAC system operating efficiencies achieved.To assist in improving the electrical efficiency of HVAC systems,the author has developed and successfully applied a simple butpowerful general system analysis principle that can be used to helpin optimizing the system design and to ensure optimal operationof nearly any modern HVAC system.