Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your company cool throughout the day. This helps to create an efficient and healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and experienced in working on these types of systems. This will ensure that they can find the correct tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems to choose from however a packaged AC system is the most common. These air conditioning systems integrate cooling and heating into one unit, making them an excellent option for commercial spaces with small space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are typically found in offices and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are housed 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 and is able to pass through evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator absorbs 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 through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
Since the components of a package unit are located outside, they are smaller than a conventional split system, and don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system can be more maintenance-friendly since there aren’t any ducts where animals or insects can nest. The components are also less prone to corrosion or weather damage.
Because they are one unit, packaged units can also be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are also typically more energy efficient, since they don’t have the same requirements as traditional split systems that must work to heat and cool multiple rooms.
Another advantage of this system is that it is built in a factory setting which means that the components are not subjected to extreme temperatures. This results in a more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs available, including gas/electric models or all-electric models. Gas/electric models are a good option for areas that are colder. All-electric models work best in warmer climates where heating isn’t required. There are also combination units that can be used to heat and cool the same building, depending on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the use of air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes that join the two components. The compressor draws cool room air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the indoor air ducting. The system can be used to heat your home by using the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the ideal solution for older homes or spaces that don’t have ductwork. They are also used to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops, and other rooms that aren’t suited to a more traditional HVAC solution. The system can be installed easily by our skilled technicians. The only thing they require to install the system is access to the wall where your indoor unit will mount, and a suitable place to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. This means that you’ll be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred setting. This type of system also offers greater energy efficiency, as no duct-related air loss is present, and some brands even offer discounts to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
Another option is to utilize a multi-zone ductless system which features one outdoor compressor connected to a variety of indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you’d like to cool or heat, and it is controlled by its own remote. This setup allows you to manage the temperature in every area of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces with many different zones with varying needs for cooling.
The indoor units each feature air filters that remove pollutants and other allergens from the air. making your workplace more healthy for both customers and employees. This is especially useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a key element in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective option for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for different areas in the building. This lets the occupants adjust their the level of comfort and productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently distributing heat, making them a sustainable solution all the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit is equipped with an air compressor that circulates refrigerant by pipes to indoor units in different rooms or zones. The compressor modulates its speed to precisely match the cooling and heating requirements of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycles that consume energy. The indoor units’ coils for evaporation can be used to heat the room. Again, the system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings that have many requirements. This includes hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool the individual rooms reduces energy use and maintenance. The system’s low-noise operation results in a quieter atmosphere and better privacy, making it suitable for areas where distractions can be a concern.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which can be evident by the lower costs for utilities. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones independently also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce the energy consumption of ductwork that is in good shape or has the capacity to accommodate newer 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 preferred option for offices and restaurants, hotels, and other commercial buildings which frequently change their uses and occupancy patterns. The system is a good fit for large buildings which are in the process of renovations and 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 know more about the ways that the VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We are happy to discuss this system with you, and help you decide whether it is the right heating/cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is a specific type of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It works by cooling water and spreading it across your space, cooling the ambient temperature and creating a pleasant space. This is a great option for industrial or large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two primary chillers, air cooled and water cooled. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool a liquid refrigerant, which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that move air over the condenser and evaporator coils to take out heat. They are usually situated in a basement or mechanical room with a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with a water box that is connected to an external cooling system, like a tower. These chillers are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers, which allows them to heat your home in winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption in a building that needs both cooling and heating, or for spaces with seasonal demand fluctuations. It is more efficient to draw warmth from a heating unit than to take it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit, can increase its efficiency and lower the cost of your utility costs. The most important maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator and making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked, and performing regular oil changes. If you are using water-cooled chillers and your facility has a water treatment system must be in good condition to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you pick depends on the requirements of your building and budget. A packaged unit could be the best option for small businesses and residential areas, whereas a VRF or industrial chiller is more suitable for larger structures with special requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you determine the best solution for your building.