Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your business cool all day long. This can help create a healthy, productive work environment.
If you are looking for a contractor to install commercial AC make sure they have the right experience and license. This will ensure they are able to determine the appropriate tonnage that is appropriate for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are many different HVAC systems to choose from however, one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units combine the cooling and heating process into one unit, making them a great alternative for commercial spaces that need to save space. Also called roof top units, these types of systems are usually found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating the air is pushed through the ductwork, and then moves through evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat of the air, and the motor that blows the air in the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air in the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator to reuse it.
Since the parts of a package unit are stored outside, they are smaller than a conventional split system, and don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is generally simpler to maintain since there are no ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the parts are less prone to suffering from rust or other weather damage.
Since they are one unit, packaged units can also be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are also usually more energy-efficient, as they don’t have the same needs as a traditional split system that has to efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
This system also has the benefit of being manufactured in factories, where components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This leads to a more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package ACs, such as all-electric or gas/electric models. All-electric models are a great option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric units are a viable option for colder areas. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both cooling and heating the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are also known as mini-split systems offer a more pleasant cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room, through the outdoor unit and then pushes it through the air ducting inside the. The system can also be used to heat by using the same method in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are usually the best option for older homes and spaces that have no existing ductwork. They’re also frequently used to cool and heat workshops, sunrooms and garages and other spaces which wouldn’t be a good fit for conventional HVAC systems. Our technicians can install the system. All they require to finish the installation is access to the wall where your indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. You can keep the temperature of your space while guests are able to alter the temperature as they wish. This type of system also offers greater energy efficiency, as no duct-related air loss is evident. Some brands offer incentives to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
Another option is a multi-zone ductless unit that includes an outdoor compressor that is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is located in the space you wish to cool or heat, and it is controlled by its own remote. This setup gives you the flexibility to set the temperature for each zone in your building and is an ideal choice for commercial buildings with numerous areas that have varying cooling needs.
Each indoor unit has air filters to remove allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for employees and customers. This is especially useful in restaurants, where air quality is a major element in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy efficient solution for various commercial spaces. They provide precise temperatures and zoning features for different areas of the building, which allows the occupants to personalize their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also help save energy by efficiently distributing heat, making them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts its speed in order to precisely match the cooling and heating needs of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The indoor units’ evaporator coils can be used to heat the room. The system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with a variety of needs. This includes offices, hospitals as well as schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat individual spaces reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. Low noise operation makes the system ideal for spaces that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which is seen by the lower utility bills. In addition, the ability of the system to heat and cool several zones separately contributes to substantial energy savings in comparison to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems can also be used to reduce energy consumption in existing ductwork that’s 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 top option for office buildings and restaurants, hotels and other commercial structures that frequently change their use and occupying patterns. It’s a great fit for large buildings undergoing renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it is able to meet specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about how a VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We’ll be happy to discuss the system with you and assist you to determine if it is the right heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a specific kind of HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It chills water and distributes it throughout the room to create a comfortable atmosphere. This is a great option for large buildings or industrial facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two chillers, water-cooled and air-cooled. Both use absorption or compressing vapor to cool refrigerant liquid, which is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers have fans that move air over the condenser and evaporator coils to eliminate heat. They have a large footprint and are typically located in a mechanical room on the roof or in basements. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box which is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a smaller 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 great method to save energy for buildings that require cooling and heating, or for areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than it is to extract it from the cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit, can improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility bills. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with inspecting and servicing the compressor chiller are a few of the most important 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 be based on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged unit may be the best option for small-sized businesses and residential spaces, while industrial chillers or a VRF is more suitable for larger structures with special requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your building.
