GOT A PROBLEM?
BETTER CALL DOUG!
“Better Call Doug” represents our commitment to being your trusted local engineering expert in Honolulu, Hawaii and beyond. With 200+ years of combined experience among our engineers and designers who have a passion for excellence, “Doug” embodies the expertise and dedication that define Douglas Engineering Pacific.
OVER 3 DECADES OF EXPERIENCE
We’ve been your local go-to engineering consulting firm since 1992!
OUR SERVICES
Discover our range of services at Douglas Engineering Pacific, where we specialize in mechanical and electrical engineering, from design to construction administration. Our experienced team is committed to delivering innovative and efficient solutions tailored to your project’s needs.
⁄ 01
Fire Protection
We use science and engineering to design systems and strategies to prevent, control, and mitigate the impact of fires in buildings and other structures.
⁄ 02
Electrical
We design, develop, test, and manage electrical systems, components, and equipment including power generation, transmission, distribution, and more.
⁄ 03
Plumbing & HVAC
We plan and design building systems, including equipment sizing and selection, related to plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
⁄ 04
Engineering Studies
We conduct systematic investigations and analysis to gather information, evaluate options, solve problems, and make informed decisions.
WHAT “BETTER CALL DOUG” MEANS FOR YOU
Personalized Solutions
When you call Doug, you’re connecting with a dedicated partner who understands your challenges and is ready to find the best solutions.
Reliability
Doug is synonymous with dependability. When you “Better Call Doug,” you can trust that your concerns will be addressed promptly and effectively.
Expert Guidance
Doug brings a wealth of knowledge to the table that you can rely on for insightful advice and innovative solutions.
FEATURED PROJECTS
Explore our Projects Showcase, where we highlight our excellence in mechanical and electrical engineering. Our portfolio showcases innovative solutions and expert construction administration across a range of projects, demonstrating our commitment to meeting our clients’ unique needs.
Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 2015
Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Office Building, 2015
Problem
This was the complete renovation and modernization of a 9-story U.S. Federal Office Building, to be a high-performance green facility, certified LEED Silver. Construction had to be strategically phased and conducted so that the building would remain fully occupied and operational. Phasing was to include temporary swing spaces to host personnel during remodel of their permanent spaces. As Part II of an ongoing project, this was to continue the implementation of the new 1000kw emergency power system, and include a separate branch of emergency power for the US Coast Guard Command Center.
Solution
We extended the new power distribution system utilizing bus duct risers from the new service switchboard up through the building. We extended the new essential and non-essential emergency power systems and, for the US Coast Guard, designed a Critical Operations Power System (COPS) as a dedicated branch. Since a COPS includes unique building resilience requirements that we were familiar with, we provided guidance to the rest of the design team regarding them.
As in Part I, the power systems included an imbedded electrical power monitoring system to provide detailed power quality and usage analysis. And as before we designed these systems to conform with the phasing requirements of the project; new systems were built alongside existing ones and switchovers occurred during unoccupied hours.
We designed three new roof-mounted photovoltaic power systems: 108kw, 85kw and 60kw.
We designed new lighting and a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) control system which provides very precise local control, and which is easily modified through programming and without re-wiring.
We designed a new UL Master lighting protection system.
We extended the new fire alarm and emergency communications system and designed a new Fire Command Center on the ground floor.
Results
The project as executed met the stated goals. The building was fully renovated as a state-of-the-art, high-performance facility, while occupied. It received LEED Silver Accreditation, and the project won 5 Awards, in 2015.
Bishop Museum, 2005-2007
Bishop Museum Hawaiian Hall, 2005-2007
Problem
This project was the renovation of a Hawaiian history museum set in a historic building. Our work included the design of lighting, power, and infrastructure for communications systems to support the exhibits and displays. The challenge was to incorporate the systems into the building’s existing structure while retaining its historic integrity and protecting the artifacts from UV radiation.
Solution
We collaborated with the Architect and Contractor to discreetly route the conduit and boxes to difficult-to-reach areas. The existing skylight which had been covered up was restored and opened up. The skylight remained closed off to natural sunlight and we designed lighting with filters to simulate the natural sunlight while reducing UV light.
Results
Our attention to detail and collaboration with the design and construction team helped to preserve the integrity and characteristics of a historic setting.
American Savings Bank Tower, 2015-2018
American Savings Bank, 2015-2018
Problem
This project was an 11-story bank headquarters building, designed and built in two separate construction contracts. The scopes were divided into Core and Shell, and Tenant Interior (TI) work. There were separate project Architects leading these efforts, effectively leading two separate design teams. The challenge was to develop the Core and Shell portion – complete structure with all major infrastructure and utilities in place – on a schedule ahead of the TI, yet designed to support the specific requirements of the TI portion.
Solution
We developed system designs with as much detail as possible for each project individually, with special focus on equipment spaces, arrangement of equipment spaces within the building, and pathways between them for utilities. This we shared on a running basis with the design team for each project. Beyond that, we shared the information for each of the projects with the other project’s design team, also on a running basis. This was done to prevent one team taking a direction which would conflict with the work of the other team, and to dovetail the two designs as completely as possible. For example, we designed a cable management system for exterior window controls with the TI team, based on their plans, for inclusion into the Core and Shell project. It was necessary to continue this level of coordination through both design efforts to the end of each.
Results
Our proactive approach to coordination helped avoid conflicts between contracts during construction, which would have resulted in additional time and expense.
Moanalua Hillside Apartments Master Plan Phase 1, 2013-2014
Moanalua Hillside Apartments Master Plan Phase 1, 2013-2014
Problem
This was a multi-building project involving four new high-rise multi-family apartment buildings, two new common area facilities, one new service building, and system upgrades to six existing multi-family buildings. The entire site included twenty-eight additional apartment buildings and service buildings, and was on a single primary metered power service. The new and renovated buildings were to be provided with individually metered HECO power utility services. Services had to be maintained in operation for the other buildings and facilities on site during construction.
Solution
For the new buildings we designed hvac systems, plumbing systems, fire sprinkler systems, electrical services and distribution systems, communications services and wiring systems, lighting systems and fire alarm systems. For the four new high-rise buildings this included emergency standby power systems.
For the six renovated buildings we designed ventilation and plumbing systems, electrical services and distribution systems, communications services and wiring systems, lighting systems, and fire alarm systems.
To keep the remaining buildings in service, and to meet phasing requirements for new construction, we designed all new underground utilities into the site to take over the role of serving the site prior to demolition of the existing utilities in the main project area. This involved some new primary utility power equipment to serve as the connecting and stopping-off point between Phase 1 (new construction and remodel) and Phase 2 (all the remaining buildings). This included provisions for future primary metering by the utility, and a new medium voltage transformer and primary metered power to the new service building which was too remote from the main project to receive a HECO service.
Results
We were able to assign many qualified staff to work on the multiple building projects and meet the project schedule while delivering complete designs. We drew on our extensive experience in utility system design, and made use of solid working relationships with utility personnel and the civil Engineer, to address the complex site and phasing issues.
TESTIMONIALS
Mr. Buhr [of Douglas Engineering Pacific] is very knowledgeable on the fire code, as well as the Life Safety Evaluation.
Reid Yoshida | Battalion Chief
Honolulu Fire Department
Douglas Engineering Pacific is an exceptional consultant, providing experience, service, and reliability across MEP disciplines and project support from concept to completion.
Christopher Brown | Principal
Arkitek:Design&Architecture
Douglas Engineering Pacific helped our building pass the fire and life safety evaluation and saved our building from installing sprinklers! The project went smoothly, and I would recommend them.
Vlad Rapoport
Imua Associates LLC
I can’t say enough good things about Douglas Engineering Pacific. Working with them was a game-changer for our project. Doug and his team have this incredible knack for finding solutions to every problem we threw their way. Their service is top-notch, and their ability to think outside the box saved us time and again.
Chris Kiriakos
Homeowner
NEWS & EVENTS
Stay updated with the latest happenings at Douglas Engineering Pacific. Here, we share exciting developments, project milestones, industry insights, and upcoming events that showcase our commitment to excellence in engineering.
What Managers Should Know About Aging Electrical Systems
What’s the Deal with Federal Pacific and Zinsco Breakers?
Don’t Run From a Notice of Violation
Fire & Life Safety Evaluation: Fact and Fiction
2024 Hawaii Buildings, Facilities & Property Management Expo
2024 MRMA Luncheon
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our services and how we can assist you.
Do I need a building permit?
Building permits are required:
i. To construct, alter or demolish any structure.
ii. For electrical or plumbing work more than $2,500.
iii. For building repairs not requiring electrical or plumbing that are more than $10,000 within a 12-month period.
(Information provided as of April 2024)
How long does permitting take?
Permit timelines depend on multiple factors including the City’s workload and the ever-changing review process. Typically, at least one year can be expected. However, small and/or simple projects can take closer to 6 months to be reviewed and approved by the City.
(Information provided as of April 2024)
Do I need a Construction Manager?
This depends on the type and size of project. Douglas Engineering Pacific can provide permit routing, review of Contractor submittals, review and approval of Contractor pay requests, and monthly or weekly site visits by qualified personnel under the supervision of the licensed Engineer to observe the progress and quality of the executed work.
Do I need to replace my cast-iron piping?
Typically, cast-iron drain, waste, and vent (DWV) piping in multi-story condominiums have a usable life of 40-50 years. Douglas Engineering Pacific can help determine whether a partial or complete replacement is required by performing an assessment of your building’s DWV system.
What is the advantage of Engineer prepared bid documents?
Bid documents are used to obtain competitive bids from multiple Contractors at once. A detailed and complete set of bid documents is necessary for keeping bids equivalent and comparable. A professional set of bid documents can lower the number of unnecessary Change Orders compared to a hand drawn or PDF markup.
Is the City requiring my condominium building to install fire sprinklers?
No, Ordinance 22-2 gives the option of either installing fire sprinklers or passing a Fire and Life Safety Evaluation (FLSE). Douglas Engineering Pacific has conducted over 140 FLSE’s. We can provide design, permitting, bidding, and contract administration services for buildings to pass their FLSEs.
What is the cost comparison between installing fire sprinklers versus passing the Fire and Life Safety Evaluation?
Passing the Fire and Life Safety Evaluation (FLSE) is usually a fraction of the cost of installing fire sprinklers. Douglas Engineering Pacific can assist you with an opinion of probable cost as well as the next steps to passing your FLSE.
Our building failed the Fire and Life Safety Evaluation, now what?
Most buildings do not pass the first evaluation. Speak with your evaluator about how to address the deficiencies in your evaluation to obtain a passing score. If the deficiencies are impractical to address, consider getting a second opinion by another evaluator. Douglas Engineering Pacific has conducted over 140 FLSEs, including several re-evaluations.
Do I need an Engineer, or can I just ask contractors for bids?
If you directly ask the contractors for bids, they will often include the cost to hire an engineer anyway. Instead, we recommend directly hiring the engineer to design drawings and bid out the project for you. This ensures the bids are apples-to-apples. The engineer will have specialized knowledge and expertise to review the bids. This also allows you to communicate directly with the engineer rather than just the contractor. Our team of licensed engineers can help you throughout this process with your next project.
I have a Notice of Violation (NOV) for unpermitted work. What should I do?
Immediately hire an engineer or architect to submit a permit application and notify the inspector. Douglas Engineering Pacific has assisted multiple buildings with addressing their NOV’s.
Our condominium building is adding air-conditioners and/or EV chargers. Can our electrical system handle this?
Hire a qualified electrical engineer to assess the capacity of your electrical system. Douglas Engineering Pacific’s team of licensed electrical engineers can assist you with an assessment of your electrical system.
Our condominium building is adding clothes washers/dryers. Can our plumbing system handle this?
Hire a qualified mechanical and electrical engineer to assess the capacity of your plumbing and electrical systems. Douglas Engineering Pacific’s team of licensed engineers can assist you with an assessment.
Our building’s electrical equipment is getting old. What should we do?
Douglas Engineering Pacific can conduct an assessment of your electrical system to determine its condition and provide recommendations on maintenance.
Our insurance is telling us to replace our FPE and/or Zinsco circuit breakers. Why?
FPE and Zinsco circuit breakers are known for their high failure rate and thus increase the risk of fire. This may require the replacement of large components of your electrical system. Douglas Engineering Pacific can assist you with the next steps for this project.