Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your company cool throughout the day. This promotes an efficient, healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, ensure that they have the proper license and experience in working with these kinds of systems. This will guarantee that they will find the correct tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to choose from among them, but one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit, making them an excellent option for commercial buildings with small space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, can be found in offices and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building with sheet metal ductwork. When the cooling or heating process is in progress, the air enters through the ductwork and flows over the evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils absorbs the heat that is in the air and the blower motor of the air conditioner then moves the conditioned air into the building. The coolant used can be recirculated back through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
Since the components of a package unit are housed outdoors, they can be smaller than a conventional split system, and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system could be more maintenance-friendly, as there are no ducts where animals or insects could nest. The components are more likely to be spared corrosion or weather damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install because they are a single unit. They are also typically more energy efficient since they don’t have the same needs as the traditional split system which requires heat and cool multiple rooms.
This system also has the advantage of being built in an industrial facility in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that you get better performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units which 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 heat and cool the same structure, based on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also referred to as ductless AC units, provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the use of air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing which connects the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it back through air ducting inside the. The system can also be used to heat, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are usually an ideal solution for older homes and spaces which don’t have ductwork. These systems can also be used to heat or cool sunrooms and garages. Our technicians can easily install the system. The only thing they need to install the system is access to the wall that your indoor unit will mount and a suitable location to put the outside unit.
A ductless system can also provide zoned cooling comfort. It allows you to maintain an ideal temperature in your home while guests can adjust the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system also offers greater energy efficiency, because no duct-related loss of air is present. Some manufacturers even offer discounts to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
Another option is a multi-zone ductless system which features one outdoor compressor connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you wish to cool or warm, and each one has its own remote. This configuration lets you manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces with many different zones with varying cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters that remove allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for employees and clients. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where air quality is an important aspect in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for the various zones within the building. The occupants can modify their comfort and productivity. They are also a sustainable solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit has a compressor which circulates refrigerant by pipes to indoor units in different zones or room. The compressor modulates the speed to be in tune with the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycling, which consumes energy. The evaporator coils of the indoor units can be used to provide heat and cooling, with the system adapting its operation according to.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings that have various requirements. This includes offices, hospitals, schools and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The system’s quiet operation creates a more peaceful atmosphere and better security, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
Energy efficiency is a key benefit of VRF technology and can be seen in the lower utility bills that are associated with implementing the system. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool multiple zones independently contributes to significant energy savings in comparison to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can also be used to reduce the amount of energy used in ductwork that is not in good condition or does not have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes the system an ideal choice for commercial buildings like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy and usage patterns frequently. The system is a good fit for large buildings that are undergoing renovations or construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it is able to meet specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways the VRF commercial system can benefit your space. We’re happy to discuss this system with you and assist you in deciding if it is the right heating/cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that can increase your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It is a system that cools water before distributing it throughout your space, cooling the ambient air temperature and creating a relaxing space. This is an excellent option for industrial and large-scale facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two main chillers, water-cooled and air-cooled. Both utilize absorption or compressing vapor to cool a refrigerant liquid, which is then cycled through various temperatures. The chillers that are air-cooled use fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to take out heat. They are big in footprint and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in a basement. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with an enclosed water box that connects to an external cooling method like a cooling tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers that allow them to heat your house during the winter. This is a great way to reduce energy consumption for buildings that need both heating and cooling or for areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than it is to draw it from the cold air outside.
As with an appliance that is packaged, maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency and decrease your energy costs. Some key maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator, making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked, and performing regular oil changes. If you have an air-cooled chiller or water treatment system, your facility’s water treatment system should be in good order to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The kind of chiller you select will be based on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged unit is the best choice for small businesses or residential spaces. However a VRF chiller or industrial chiller might be the best option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your particular building.