About Us

Computair – world leaders in HVAC software

Computair is a software company specialising in design and selection software for HVAC and cold room manufacturers. Based in the pretty village of Toddington near London, all our software is developed in-house by a team of highly experienced programmers, many of whom have been with the company for a number of years.

The company was set up in 1980 and our first contract was for an Air Handling Unit selection package, among the first in the world to be produced on a micro-computer. Indeed, it was so pioneering that one of the main problems the company had at first was in convincing potential clients that automated selection was possible.

We have seen many changes over the years, not least in the hardware being used, but also in the range of programs we are now able to offer. One thing which has remained constant is our focus on meeting the needs of the user. Our first program was designed by an engineer for use by engineers, and we have been guided by this principle ever since.

Computair HVACR software programs automate the selection, design and estimation of air movement and heat transfer equipment (and associated equipment such as refrigeration, compressors and heat reclaim systems) through to CAD, shop floor and production. The software is able to link to existing computer systems such as stock control, or sheet metal nesting.

Computair software is constantly evolving, developing modules such as heaters, coolers, humidifiers, heat reclaim and fan selection for the various technical and financial calculations involved, and for the handling and presentation of information. This includes software for the storage and recall of performance information (such as fan curves), often in greater detail than is possible on most selection charts.

Management Team

The experts and leaders of Computair

NIGEL TAFFS – FOUNDER & OWNER

Nigel leads the company and has exceptional hands-on HVAC experience and IT knowledge. He initially worked for the Myson group of companies, starting as a draughtsman in the Air Handler division and ending up as a design engineer, supervising the air-side quotation department. Air handlers, coils and ‘special’ projects were his direct responsibility. Nigel was a co-founder of Computair in 1980 and he has worked as a consultant to BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) and on the government committee concerning building regulations part L (energy efficiency). He has also trained engineers in psychrometric and coil design for many companies.

RICHARD PHELAN – MANAGING DIRECTOR

Richard joined Computair straight after completing his master’s degree in 1993 and was invited to join the board of directors three years later. Now in his third decade with the company, he has been responsible for the transition from MS-DOS to Windows, the web and today’s modern platforms. He has recruited and developed our present team of expert software engineers, a team he believes to be the best Computair has ever had. During his career he has collaborated with clients in the US and around the world, working to ensure Computair fully understands their requirements before arriving at the best solution for their needs.

PETER GRAYDON – DIRECTOR

Peter joined Computair in its early years and provides a strong mix of expertise in both the technical and financial aspects of the HVAC-R industry. A highly experienced professional, he is able to make a valuable contribution at both corporate and project levels. He also uses these skills to understand client requirements and establish the best commercial route for client success both technically and financially.

RAY NOTTAGE -CHAIRMAN & OWNER


Ray originally worked as a fan engineer and went on to build one of the largest fan manufacturing and retail companies in the United Kingdom. He has since been President of the Fan Manufacturers’ Association and Vice President of the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA).

Trusted internationally

We have clients in all countries highlighted below

Client map 2022
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