Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool all day long. This promotes an efficient and healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, make sure they have the proper license and experience in working on these types of systems. This will help ensure they can find the right amount of tonnage that is appropriate for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to choose from, but one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems combine cooling and heating into one unit, making them an excellent option for commercial spaces with little space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are typically found in offices and malls.
In a standard packaged system, all the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating process, air flows through the ductwork through which it passes the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air, and the blower motor of the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air into the building. The coolant used is circulated back through the compressor and evaporator coils to ensure it is reused.
Since the components of a package unit are housed outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t need an indoor furnace. This kind of system could be more maintenance-friendly since there aren’t any vents in which insects or animals can nest. The components are also less likely to suffer rust or weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install because they are one unit. They are also usually more energy efficient since they don’t have the same requirements as the traditional split system which requires efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
Another benefit of this system is that it’s built in a factory setting and the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This means that you get greater performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. Gas/electric units are an alternative for those who live in areas that are warmer. All-electric models are ideal in warmer climates where heating isn’t needed. There are even combination units that can be used to both cool and heat the same building, depending on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are often referred to as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor, and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room, through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is typically the best option for older homes or rooms that don’t have ductwork. They can also be utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. The system is easily installed by our skilled technicians. The only thing they require to put the system in place is access to the wall where your indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable spot to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. This means that you’ll be able to keep your space at a moderate temperature while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred temperature. This type of system offers greater energy efficiency, as no duct-related air loss is present, and some brands offer rebates to encourage customers to use their new systems.
Another option is to use a multi-zone ductless unit that includes an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each one has its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the option of setting the temperature for every zone within your building which makes it an ideal choice for commercial spaces with numerous areas that have different cooling requirements.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that remove pollutants and other pollutants from the air, making your place an environment that is healthier for both customers and employees. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where air quality is a key factor in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for various commercial spaces. They offer precise temperatures and zoning features for different areas of the building, which allows the occupants to personalize their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently distributing heat, making them a sustainable solution all the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor regulates its speed in order to precisely to meet the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized for heating. In addition, the system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with a variety of requirements. This includes offices, hospitals as well as schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation contributes to a quieter space and more privacy, making it suitable for areas where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology and can be seen in the lower utility bills that come when you implement the system. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones in a single system also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can even be used to decrease the energy use for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is usually not in good shape or does not have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The ability of the system to swiftly adapt to changing climate conditions enables it to operate more efficiently than other forms of cooling and heating. This flexibility makes it popular for commercial buildings like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is also ideal for large structures that are going through renovations or construction because it is easy to retrofit existing ductwork to meet the specific requirements of the building. If you’re interested to learn more about the ways commercial VRF system could improve your workplace, please get in touch with the team at Mission Mechanical. We are happy to discuss this system with you, and assist you in deciding whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular type of HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It is a system that cools water before dispersing it throughout your area, reducing ambient temperature, and creating a relaxing space. This is a great option for industrial and large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers – air cooled and water cooled. Both employ absorption or compression of vapor to cool a refrigerant, which is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that push air over the condenser and evaporator coils to remove excess heat. They are usually located in a mechanical or basement room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with a water box that connects to an external cooling system like a cooling tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a lower footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers that can be used to heat your home during winter. This is a smart way to conserve energy in a structure that requires both cooling and heating, or for areas that have seasonal demand fluctuations. It’s more efficient to get warmth from a heating unit than to draw it from outside air.
Like a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will improve its operational efficiency and reduce your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked components are among the main maintenance tasks. If you use a chiller that is water-cooled, the water treatment system within your facility must be in good shape to avoid scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller you select will depend on the requirements of your building and budget. A packaged chiller is the best choice for small or residential spaces. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller could be a better solution for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your building.
