The H-Factor

To be able to use HydraCAD with a background drawing, you need to do these simple steps:

Step 1 – Start a new drawing using one of the HydraCAD templates. Answer the scale question if asked. This is non-negotiable!

Step 2 – Insert the background drawing into the new HydraCAD drawing, exploded. Meaning, checking the Explode option

If you need help with the new AutoCAD 2020 Insert command, read this post: Using the AutoCAD 2020 Insert Command

That's really all you have to do to start working!

Next Steps

To convert existing sprinkler heads into HydraCAD heads, read this post: Working With Background drawings #1 – Changing Sprinkler Head Symbols

To convert existing piping into HydraCAD piping, read this post: Working With Background Drawings #2 – Changing Piping

If you are not happy with the colors or line-types of the existing steel, walls, ceilings, structures, etc – then feel free to change them. But, this does not need to be done to use HydraCAD effectively