Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This creates a healthy and productive work environment.
When selecting a contractor for commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and experienced in working on these types of systems. This will ensure that they can determine the appropriate tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are many different HVAC systems available, but one of the most popular for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These types of air conditioning units integrate the cooling and heating process into one unit which makes them an ideal option for commercial spaces that require to save space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are typically found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating, the air enters through the ductwork and moves through evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils sucks up the heat in the air, and the blower motor in the air conditioner then pushes that conditioned air into the building. The used coolant is then recirculated back through the evaporator coils and compressor to ensure it is reused.
The components of a packaged system are placed outside. This makes them smaller than a split system and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This kind of system is usually easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from rust or other weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install since they are one unit. They are generally more energy efficient since they don’t require heating and cool multiple rooms like split systems.
The system also has the benefit of being manufactured in an industrial facility in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This leads to a more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are various kinds of package ACs, including gas/electric or all-electric models. All-electric models are a good option for climates that don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models provide an option for colder areas. Depending on the model, there are combinations that can be used for heating and cooling the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are also referred to as mini-split system provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor, and refrigerant tubing which connects the two components. The compressor pulls cool room air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can be used to heat your home by using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is typically the best solution for older homes or spaces without ductwork. They’re also commonly used to heat and cool workshops, sunrooms and garages and other spaces that wouldn’t benefit from a more traditional HVAC solution. The system is easily installed by our expert technicians. All they need to do is access to the wall where your indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can provide cooling comfort in zones. This means you can keep your space at a comfortable temperature, while guests can remain at their preferred setting. This kind of system is also more energy efficient because there is no duct-related loss of air. Certain brands offer rebates for customers who choose to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It is made up of one outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the location you wish to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This setup gives you the flexibility to set the temperature for each area in your building, making it an ideal choice for commercial buildings with numerous areas that have different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit comes with air filters to remove pollutants and allergens, creating a healthier space for your clients and employees. This is especially useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a major aspect in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for various commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for different zones within the building. The occupants can adjust their the comfort and efficiency of their workplace. They also offer a green solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor modulates the speed to match precisely to the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The coils for evaporation can be used to heat the room. The system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
Zoning technology makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices, schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse range of requirements. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation results in a quieter environment and improved privacy, making it suited for environments where distractions can be a concern.
The VRF system is renowned for its energy efficiency, which is seen by the lower utility bills. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones in a single system also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems are also able to reduce energy consumption in existing 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 it a preferred option for office buildings and restaurants, hotels and other commercial structures which frequently change their uses and occupying patterns. It’s also a great fit for large buildings that are under construction or renovation, as it’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and meet the specific requirements of the building. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We’d be delighted to discuss the system with you and help determine if it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular kind of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and spreads it across the space to create a comfortable environment. This is an excellent option for industrial and large-scale facilities that require to cool more than just the air.
There are two main chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both employ absorption or compressing vapor to cool refrigerant liquid, which is then cycled through various temperatures. The air cooled chillers use fans to blow air over the coils of the evaporator or condenser to eliminate heat. They are usually located in a basement or mechanical room that has a large footprint. Water cooled chillers have a water box which connects to an external cooling method like cooling towers. These chillers are usually smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your home in the winter. This is a great way to conserve energy in structures that require heating and cooling or for areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. For example, it’s far more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than to draw it from the cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller like a packaged unit will improve its efficiency and reduce your energy bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with checking and servicing the compressed components are among the main maintenance tasks. If you are using an air-cooled chiller, your facility’s water treatment system should be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you choose depends on the requirements of your building and your budget. A packaged unit may be the best choice for small-sized businesses and homes, while a VRF or industrial chiller is the best option for larger buildings with unique requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your building.