Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps promote a healthy, productive workplace.
When choosing a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they have the proper license and experience in working on these types of systems. This will help ensure they will be able to find the appropriate quantity for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems available however a packaged AC system is the most well-known. These air conditioning systems combine cooling and heating into one unit which makes them a great choice for commercial spaces with limited space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building with sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it passes the evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air, and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air through the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
The components of a packaged system are all placed outside. This makes them smaller than a split system, and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system can be easier to maintain because there aren’t vents where insects or animals can settle. The components are also less prone to weather-related damage or rust.
Because they are a single unit They can also be less costly to install than split systems. They can also be more energy efficient, since they don’t have the same requirements as a traditional split system that requires heat and cool multiple rooms.
Another advantage of this system is that it is manufactured in a factory setting and the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This ensures better performance and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package AC units, including all-electric and gas/electric models. All-electric models are a great choice for warmer climates which don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models provide an option for colder regions. Based on the model, there are even combinations that can be used for both heating and cooling the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, provide more comfortable cooling without the use of air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor draws cool air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the indoor air ducting. The system can also be used to heat, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are usually the best option for older homes or spaces that have no existing ductwork. These systems can also be used to cool or heat garages and sunrooms. The system can be easily installed by our professional 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 location to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system is also able to provide cooling comfort in zones. This means that you can keep your space at a comfortable temperature, while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred temperature. This kind of system also provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is evident. Some manufacturers even offer discounts to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is another option. It consists of a single outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is situated in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each has its own remote. This setup lets you regulate the temperature of each area of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces with multiple zones with different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters to remove allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for your clients and employees. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is a crucial component of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for various commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control and zoning capabilities for different areas of the building, allowing the occupants to personalize their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently distributing heat, which makes them a green solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor regulates its speed to precisely match the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized to heat the room. The system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings that have a variety of requirements. This includes offices, hospitals, schools and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool the individual rooms reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. The system’s quiet operation results in a quieter space and more privacy, making it suitable for areas where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which is evident by the lower costs for utilities. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones in a single system is also a major source of savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can even be used to reduce the energy used for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is usually not in good working order or isn’t able to handle the latest equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems because it is able to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular choice for office spaces, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial buildings that are frequently changing their usage and occupancy patterns. The system is a good option for large structures that are undergoing renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it is able to meet specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways that the VRF commercial system can improve your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and assist you to determine if it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It is a system that cools water before distributing it throughout your space, cooling the ambient temperature and creating a pleasant space. This is a great solution for larger buildings or industrial facilities that have a need to cool more than the air.
There are two primary chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both employ absorption or vapor compression to cool a refrigerant liquid that is then cycled through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that blow air over the evaporator and condenser coils to take out heat. They are large in size and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in the basement. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box that connects to an external cooling system like a cooling tower. They are typically smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your home during winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption for structures that require cooling and heating or spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to draw it from the cold air outside.
Like a packaged unit, maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency in operation and lower the cost of your utility bills. The most important maintenance tasks include cleaning the evaporator and condenser, making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked and oil changes. If you are using a chiller that is water-cooled or water-cooled, the water treatment system within your facility must be in good shape to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you choose depends on the needs of your establishment and your budget. A packaged unit could be the best option for small businesses and homes, while a VRF or industrial chiller is the best option for larger buildings with specific requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you choose the ideal solution for your building.